Eastern District of Tennessee
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Controller Sentenced for Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – On July 17, 2020, Shain A. Chappell, 49, formerly of Johnson City, was sentenced by the Honorable Clifton L. Corker, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Greeneville.
As part of the plea agreement, Chappell pleaded guilty to an information in December 2019. The information charged Chappell with one count of wire fraud and one count of making a false tax return in the United States. Chappell was sentenced to 40 months in prison, followed by three years’ supervised release. Chappell will be required to make restitution of over $1 million to the victim and over $350,000 to the United States.
In October 2015, Greentech Environmental, LLC hired Chappell as its controller. During his time at Greentech, Chappell developed a scheme that used his position as controller to deceive Greentech into paying for Chappell’s personal credit card purchases, subsequently hiding the thefts by showing the payments as purchases of inventory in Greentech’s books and records. By July 2017, less than two years after his hiring, Chappell had embezzled over $1 million from his former employer, using the embezzled funds to pay for lavish lifestyle expenditures.
In addition to stealing from Greentech, Chappell filed false tax returns for 2017 and 2018 that failed to include as income the money he stole from his employer, resulting in additional income tax owed of over $350,000.
The criminal indictment was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS Criminal Investigations. This investigation was co-led by FBI Special Agent Reanna E. O’Hare and IRS CI Special Agent Jimmy Cline.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mac D. Heavener, III represented the United States.
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Associated Pain Specialists, P.C. of Knoxville Enters into Settlement Resolving False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On June 26, Associated Pain Specialists, P.C., of Knoxville, a pain management based clinic, agreed to pay $400,000 to resolve allegations of violating the False Claims Act.
The settlement resolves allegations that from February 1, 2016 through August 10, 2018, Associated Pain Specialists, P.C. knowingly billed Medicare and Tennessee Medicaid (TennCare) for medically unnecessary screening tests at higher costs than appropriate, when less costly or alternative tests were available.
The government alleged that Associated Pain Specialists, P.C. performed tests on patients whose medical records did not support a medical diagnosis for the tests and the associated billing codes. The government also alleged the Vital System Assessment Tests (VSAT) did not benefit patients because the test results were not used in the treatment subsequently provided, and that, ultimately, Associated Pain Specialists, P.C. knowingly submitting false claims to federal health care programs for payment for VSATs that were not reasonable or medically necessary.
Allegations were brought in a lawsuit filed under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government for false claims, and to receive a share of any recovery. The government may intervene and file its own complaint in such a lawsuit, as was done in this case.
“Medical providers have a duty to uphold ethical standards of care and to provide services when medically necessary in order to meet the professionally recognized standards of health care. Our office will continue to root out those who attempt to take advantage of government medical programs. Those who fail to comply with the law in order to increase profit will be pursued by the Department of Justice,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
“Patients benefit when they receive only medically necessary treatments – they deserve nothing less,” said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS-OIG). “We will continue working with our Federal and State Law Enforcement partners to protect taxpayers and government health care beneficiaries.”
“This VSAT is one of many so-called medical devices that we are seeing across Tennessee and the nation that are fraudulently used with the sole purpose of generating revenue for a health care provider by conducting unnecessary and sometimes worthless tests,” said Tony Hullender, Deputy Attorney General of the Medicaid Fraud and Integrity Division.
As part of the settlement, Associated Pain Specialists, P.C., entered an Integrity Agreement (IA) with HHS-OIG which promotes its future compliance with the statutes, regulations, program requirements, and written directives of Medicare and all other federal health care programs. The IA focuses on the pain clinic’s continuing obligation to accurately bill and properly submit reimbursement claims to Medicare and TennCare.
This investigation resulted from a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorneys’ Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee, HHS-OIG, and the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office, Medicaid Fraud and Integrity Division. Support was provided from HHS-OIG, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the Medicaid Fraud Control Division.
The case is docketed as United States and State of Tennessee ex rel. Cox. v. Associated Pain Specialist, P.C. and Smoky Mountain Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC., No. 3:18-cv-154.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy Dykes and Margaret Harker represented the United States. Deputy Attorney General Tony Hullender represented the State of Tennessee.
The claim settled by this agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
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Career Criminal Sentenced to 20 Years for Armed Robbery and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Dale Clark, 47, of Shelbyville, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for Hobbs Act robbery, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and using a firearm during a federal crime of violence before the Honorable Travis R. McDonough in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Chattanooga. The convictions and sentence resulted from a plea agreement between Clark and the United States.
Court documents reflect that after 10 p.m., on July 21, 2019, Clark entered the Chally Wally convenience store in Shelbyville, and pointed a handgun at the clerk while demanding money. Clark then went behind the counter, grabbed the clerk violently by the hair, and pointed the gun at her head while forcing her to the ground. The clerk handed the money over, and was forced into a backroom. Clark threatened to "blow her head off," before striking her in the head and leaving the store with the stolen money.
Following a successful investigation, Shelbyville police officers obtained arrest and search warrants for Clark and his residence. During the search, a K-9 officer was able to locate and remove Clark from the attic, where he was hiding. In the home, officers found clothing, a mask, and a gun that all matched the robber’s from surveillance footage obtained from the convenience store. The stolen money was not recovered, as Clark admitted to using the money to pay off drug debts.
At the time of the offense, Clark was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Court records show that due to Clark’s prior lengthy criminal history, he qualified to be sentenced as an armed career criminal.
Assistant United States Attorney Joe DeGaetano represented the United States.
The case resulted from an investigation by the Shelbyville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $142,578 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that Knox County received $142,578 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Op Ed: Why Ensuring Lawful Access Is NecessaryRead the Press Release
A 55-year-old man from Knoxville, Tennessee, sexually enticed a female minor while she was online. Evidence revealed at trial showed the man communicated with the minor, on numerous occasions, using a social media site, sending explicit sexual messages and requesting a meeting. A family member of the minor reported the inappropriate messages to law enforcement. After law enforcement initiated an undercover operation posing as the young girl, and within 48 hours, the perpetrator sent additional explicit sexual messages. The perpetrator received 10 years in federal prison.
This despicable act is just one of far too many instances where vulnerable individuals fall victim to online predators, scammers, and hackers, who perpetrate their crimes in our communities using technology. Fortunately, law enforcement was able to access the evidence necessary to bring this particular predator to justice. However, due to the spread of technology like "end-to-end" and "warrant proof" encryption, it is becoming increasingly difficult for law enforcement to access critical digital evidence, even when permitted by a court. This makes the job of protecting all Americans from terrorists, drug traffickers, and hackers, and, in particular, protecting children from online predators who seek to violate and exploit them, exceedingly difficult.
The COVID-19 pandemic has massively increased our online presence. While digital technology helps children continue their studies and stay connected with friends and families, this increased online presence also exposes children to predatory individuals on a previously unimaginable scale.
Child predators rely on digital apps and social media platforms to message and share images with potential victims, outside of the view of their caregivers and law enforcement. Increasingly, these internet platforms, through their own deliberate design, are unable to safeguard against criminals who can maintain anonymity due to "end-to-end" encryption.
"End-to-end" encryption prevents everyone except the participants in a digital conversation from viewing the content of messages, even when criminal activity is involved.
As a result, service providers can neither monitor their own platforms for illicit behavior nor produce readable content to law enforcement in response to court issued wiretap orders and search warrants. While encryption technology in general is an essential tool for protecting cybersecurity and privacy, "warrant-proof" forms of encryption allow perpetrators to avoid detection by law enforcement and limit access to vital evidence needed to bring criminals to justice or prevent crimes from happening in the first place.
Frequently, Attorney General William Barr has outlined the problems that arise when technology companies protect the privacy of individuals who seek to evade law enforcement and operate free of consequences without considering the other important values at stake. "End-to-end" encryption platforms turn the privacy of the unscrupulous into an absolute right contrary to society’s interests in public safety and without regard to the rights of potential victims of online exploitation.
A reasonable approach to encryption would balance the privacy and public safety interests of the community, by requiring makers of consumer devices and providers of online communication services to provide law enforcement with lawful access to encrypted data when authorized by a court of law.
As Attorney General Barr observed when commenting on a bill recently introduced in the United States Senate to address "warrant-proof" encryption, "Data security and public safety are not mutually exclusive. Encryption should keep us safe and secure, not provide an impenetrable safe haven for predators, terrorists, and criminals."
Cybersecurity is a central part of the DOJ’s mission. It is one part of the broader safety net we can provide the American people: keeping data safe, personal information safe, and communities and schools safe. We all want safe, and secure private data; we also want safe and secure communities. And we can have both.
J. Douglas Overbey
United States Attorney
Eastern District of TennesseePain Clinic Owner Extradicted from ItalyRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. On June 26, the United States successfully completed the extradition process of Luca Sartini, 60, from Italy, with the United States Marshals Service effectuating the transportation of Sartini from Rome to Knoxville. Sartini is a co-defendant of Sylvia Hofstetter. Hofstetter and three medical providers were convicted of numerous charges related to "pill mill" operations in Florida and Tennessee following a four-month trial earlier this year. Extradition procedures are continuing in Italy for the last co-defendant in the case, Luigi "Jimmy" Palma.
Sartini contested his extradition from Italy for approximately two years. The charges against Sartini are varied, and reflect his alleged role in owning and operating pain clinics in South Florida and the Knoxville area over the course of several years. Included in the charges are a Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization (RICO) conspiracy and a conspiracy to distribute oxycodone, oxymorphone, and morphine outside the scope of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose.
Sartini appeared before the Honorable Debra C. Poplin, U. S. Magistrate Judge, on June 26, 2020, and plead not guilty to all charges. Sartini waived his immediate right to a detention hearing and remains in custody of the United States Marshal. The trial has been set for September 1, 2020, before the Honorable Thomas A. Varlan, U. S. District Judge. If convicted, Sartini faces an imprisonment of up to 20 years on each of the charges and fines up to $1,000,000.
Members of the public are reminded that Sartini is presumed innocent until his guilt has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This sweeping prosecution, which has resulted in approximately 140 convictions so far, is the result of an investigation by the U. S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee, the Organized Crime and Gang Section, U.S. Department of Justice, and the FBI High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), comprised of investigators assigned to the task force by the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office, Knoxville Police Department, Blount County Sheriff’s Office, Roane County Sheriff’s Office, Harriman Police Department, and the Clinton Police Department. Other agencies provided invaluable assistance, including the Rome attaché of the Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Department of Justice, FBI’s liaison in Rome, FBI’s Miami Field Office, the Hollywood, Florida, Police Department, the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Tennessee Department of Health, and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Knoxville Diversion Group. The Rome attaché and FBI’s liaison in Rome were particularly instrumental in effectuating Sartini’s extradition, as were Italian law enforcement agencies and prosecutors. The United States is particularly appreciative of their assistance.
The extradition of Sartini was made possible by provisions of a treaty between the United States and Italy. The United States is grateful to the Italian government for its robust cooperation in this matter.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy L. Stone, and Deputy Chief Attorney Kelly Pearson and Trial Attorney Damare Theriot, Organized Crime and Gang Section, U.S. Department of Justice, represent the United States in the prosecution of this case.
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Department of Justice Announces $42 Million to Combat Illegal Manufacture and Distribution of Methamphetamine and OpioidsRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Department of Justice‘s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) today announced nearly $42 million in funding to support state-level law enforcement agencies in combating the illegal manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and prescription opioids.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) will receive $3,133,216 million in funding to support investigations into the trafficking of heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil and the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids.
“I am proud to announce the 2020 COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program (CAMP) and the Anti-Heroin Task Force (AHTF) Program awards to the TBI,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey. “Our nation continues to face the constant daily threat of substance abuse and addiction in our communities. Combatting this epidemic is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities. This new funding will allow the TBI to continue to provide coordination and training and to maintain the critical relationships with our law enforcement partners and the communities they serve.”
“The TBI/Tennessee Dangerous Drugs Task Force has been a driving force in Tennessee’s efforts to combat meth and heroin abuse,” said U. S. Attorney Don Cochran of the Middle District of Tennessee. “As dangerous substances like fentanyl continue to cause alarming overdoses and deaths in our communities, these additional funds will allow the task force to increase prevention and enforcement efforts at a most critical time.”
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "The Department of Justice is committed to providing meaningful resources to our state and local law enforcement partners, and this announcement of crucial public safety grant funding from the COPS Office will allow TBI to focus on the priority areas of heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine trafficking that continues to destroy lives and contribute to our violent crime rates. The TBI is an outstanding partner with our office in the fight against dangerous drug distribution, and we look forward to working with them as they put these new tools and resources to use."
“The scourge of opioid and methamphetamine use continues to take a devastating toll on our nation’s communities,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “By providing these resources to law enforcement to help combat the further spread, the COPS Office is demonstrating our commitment to this Administration’s priority of reducing drug use and protecting our citizens from this public health and safety crisis.”
“One of our top priorities is addressing the drug epidemic impacting families across the state,” said TBI Director David Rausch. “This funding will go a long way in helping us track down those distributing dangerous drugs in our communities. We are grateful to the Department of Justice and the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services for their continued support and investment in TBI.”
Drug overdose deaths and opioid-involved deaths continue to increase in the United States. Deaths from drug overdoses are up among both men and women of all races and adults of nearly all ages with more than three out of five drug overdose deaths involving an opioid. More than 130 people die every day in the United States after overdosing on opioids, while methamphetamine, the drug that contributes most to violent crime, continues to be one of the most commonly misused stimulant drugs in the world.
The COPS Office is awarding more than $29.7 million in grant funding to 14 state law enforcement agency task forces through the Anti-Heroin Task Force Program (AHTF). AHTF provides three years of funding directly to state-level law enforcement agencies with multi-jurisdictional reach and interdisciplinary team (e.g., task force) structures, in states with high per capita rates of primary treatment admissions for heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and other opioids. This funding will support the location or investigation of illicit activities through statewide collaboration related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids.
Through the COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program (CAMP), the COPS Office is also awarding $12 million to 12 state law enforcement agencies. These state agencies have demonstrated numerous seizures of precursor chemicals, finished methamphetamine, laboratories, and laboratory dump seizures. State agencies are being awarded three years of funding through CAMP to support the location or investigation of illicit activities related to the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine, including precursor diversion, laboratories, or methamphetamine trafficking.
The AHTF and CAMP funding has a tremendous impact on state investigative and seizure work. During the five month period between October 2019 and February 2020, current AHTF grantees reported the seizure of over $4 million in cash and 1,213 firearms. Similarly, for CAMP, grantees reported seizures of more than $7 million in cash and 1,577 firearms.
The complete list of Anti-Heroin Task Force Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here.
The complete list of COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 135,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
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Heiskell Man Charged with Inciting a Riot and Civil DisorderRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey and FBI Special-Agent-in-Charge Joseph E. Carrico announced the unsealing of a federal criminal complaint against Dominic Brown, 18, of Heiskell, charging him with inciting a riot and civil disorder. Brown was arrested earlier today, and made his initial appearance today in the U.S. District Court in Knoxville, Tennessee.
According to allegations made in the June 4 complaint, on May 30, 2020, Brown posted messages on his Snapchat account that were intended to incite and organize a riot at the West Town Mall in Knoxville. In one post, Brown stated, “we are not each other’s enemy only enemy is 12;” the number “12” is slang term that means law enforcement officers. In another post, Brown stated the following regarding a published news story that law enforcement officers were taking threats to West Town Mall seriously: “ok bet lol. [expletive] they ain stopping [expletive] haha I done got felonies and y’all ain stop [expletive] [expletive] outta here.” Brown also made two additional posts to his Snapchat account which contained images depicting maps of the interior of West Town Mall and made an additional post which stated in part, “If we get 300 people we can raid the mall and everything in there....”
According to the complaint, Brown also posted instructions to others and updates of his own preparations for the riot via his Snapchat account. In one post, Brown instructed, “be there by 10:30, lace your shoes, wear masks and gloves. Bring hammers bricks whatever you want.” In another post, Brown stated, “clique up before all y’all get active so we all show up at once [expletive] the waiting a hour on slow pokes clear your agenda if you comin. 10:30.”
The complaint also alleges that, on May 31, Brown was observed by law enforcement officers participating in a civil disorder in the downtown area of Market Square. Law enforcement officers observed Brown picking up a trash can lid filled with an unknown liquid and striking a law enforcement officer in the head while the officer was seated in a police vehicle. Brown attempted to flee, but was ultimately arrested by Knoxville police officers.
“The United States Attorney’s Office supports the right of American citizens to gather in peaceful protest,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey. “However, we will uphold the rule of law in this community and will take swift action against those who seek to hijack the circumstances surrounding the death of George Floyd to engage in violent criminal activity.”
“The FBI’s mission is to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution. That includes the rights of individuals to peacefully exercise their First Amendment freedoms. Violence, the threat of violence, and destruction of property jeopardizes the rights and safety of all citizens, including peaceful demonstrators. We will remain steadfast in our mission to protect the American people from those whose intent is to sow discord in our communities,” said FBI Special-Agent-in-Charge Joseph E. Carrico.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI Knoxville Field Office, with assistance from the Knoxville Police Department.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Greeneville Man Sentenced to 205 Months on Methamphetamine and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – On June 12, 2020, David Lynn Kaywood, Jr., 42, currently of Greeneville, was sentenced by the Honorable Clifton L. Corker, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Greeneville.
The criminal indictment resulted from an investigation of the Second Judicial Drug Task Force (DTF), Kingsport Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
In 2017, DTF made a controlled purchase of 16.18 grams of methamphetamine from Kaywood and a co-defendant. Kaywood arrived at the controlled buy in possession of a handgun. In 2018, the Kingsport Police Department arrested two of Kaywood’s co-defendants who were in possession of 39.94 grams of methamphetamine, and a firearm. Kaywood entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Kaywood received 205 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Kaywood sentences will run consecutive to seven cases currently pending in Sullivan County’s Second Judicial District.
Todd Martin, Assistant U.S. Attorney, represented the United States in court.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted DTF and Kingsport police in the investigation.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a comprehensive national strategy that creates local partnerships with law enforcement agencies to effectively enforce existing gun laws. It provides more options to prosecutors, allowing them to utilize local, state, and federal laws to ensure that criminals who commit gun crime face tough sentences. PSN gives each federal district the flexibility it needs to focus on individual challenges that a specific community faces. This case was also brought as part of the Safe Streets Violent Crimes Initiative, a program which combines the efforts of federal, state, and local agencies to stop violent felons from endangering our communities.
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British Citizen Pleads Guilty to Attempted Aircraft Parts FraudRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – On June 16, 2020, Richard Paul Harper, 67, of Norwich, Great Britain, entered a guilty plea to one count of attempted aircraft parts fraud in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Greeneville. Sentencing has been set for October 20, 2020, at 10:15 a.m., in U.S. District Court at Knoxville.
Harper faces a term of up to ten years in Federal prison, a fine of $250,000, and supervised release of three years.
Harper owned and controlled a business known as Apple Helicopter International, with offices in Great Britain and Bristol, Tennessee. At one time, Apple held a license from the Federal Aviation Administration, and was engaged internationally in purchasing, refurbishing, and selling used helicopters and helicopter parts.
As part of the written plea agreement, Harper admitted that he obtained a helicopter with significant damage to its underbelly. Instead of performing necessary, costly repairs, the fuselage of the helicopter was switched with the fuselage of another helicopter that had crashed in New Jersey, and the original data plates were affixed to the fuselage of that helicopter. This data plate switch caused the true history of the helicopter to be concealed. Harper, with intent to defraud, actively marketed and tried to sell the resulting helicopter with switched data plates to unsuspecting purchasers.
Ultimately, Harper attempted to sell the helicopter to an undercover agent posing as an aircraft broker. During the attempt, Harper concealed the true history of the aircraft and coordinated the provision of fraudulent maintenance records to the undercover agent. Following the filing of a criminal complaint and the issuance of an arrest warrant, agents arrested Harper when he entered the United States in Los Angeles, California on January 24, 2020, on his way to a national helicopter convention.
"Fraudulent activity of any kind is reprehensible and detrimental, but fraudulent activity of this kind that poses a particular danger to those who fly the aircraft and are on the ground is particularly egregious,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey. “I want to commend our law enforcement partners in this case for bringing the perpetrator of this fraud to justice.”
“The plea agreement entered by Harper shows that intentionally concealing material facts about an aircraft used to verify the safety and airworthiness is unacceptable,” stated Todd Damiani, Regional Special Agent-In-Charge, U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General. “Together with our Federal and prosecutorial partners, we will continue working to preserve the highest levels of integrity and safety within the Nation’s aviation system.”
“Individuals who seek monetary gain through the fraudulent sale of faulty equipment place unsuspecting consumers at risk of serious injury or death,” said Jerry C. Templet Jr., Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville. “Strong partnerships among federal regulatory and law enforcement agencies are critical to public safety both in the air and on the ground.”
The plea agreement is the result of an ongoing investigation by the Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Mac D. Heavener, III, Assistant U.S. Attorney, represented the United States.
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Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world. Among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time, when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have unfortunately exploited this tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scams and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors, offering them fake testing kits and fake help in an effort to obtain stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
“Today the Eastern District of Tennessee emphasizes the importance in investing the safety of our elderly community by recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The elderly are both integral and vulnerable members of our communities, and it is our job as a society to protect them, especially during times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. Our office is committed to continued efforts in keeping elderly citizens safe from those who seek to target them in person, over the phone, online, or door-to-door. Our office will continue to build relationships by engaging with the elderly in our communities across the cultural and economic spectrum, and help to remove the barriers within the abuse reporting process,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
“The priority of the Eastern District of Tennessee is to protect our senior population, and we remain committed to combating elderly abuse by investigating, prosecuting, and punishing those who seek to neglect and exploit these at risk members of our community.”
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
###- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Alcoa Woman Sentenced for Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn – On June 10, 2020, Marilyn Yvette Cook (also known as Marilyn Yvette Powell), 57, of Alcoa, was sentenced by the Honorable Pamela L. Reeves, Chief U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Knoxville. Cook was sentenced to 51 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release.
On July 31, 2019, following a two-day trial, a jury convicted Cook of presenting a fictitious obligation and submitting a false claim to the United States. At trial, the jury heard testimony that, in October of 2017, Cook attempted to deposit a false “bill of exchange,” with a face value of $1 million, to the Regions Bank branch in Alcoa. In support of the “bill of exchange,” which had the appearance of a bank check, Cook presented fictitious documents purporting to show that she possessed Treasury bonds worth more than $100 billion. The jury also heard testimony that, in January 2017, Cook filed a fraudulent federal tax return through which she sought a tax refund of more than $251,000. In addition, the jury learned that Cook had been convicted in 2006 for multiple counts of defrauding the United States through false tax returns, using personal information of indigent individuals receiving assistance from Cook’s faith-based organization, Sheep Ministries, Inc.
“The sentence imposed by the Court is the maximum under this defendant’s sentencing guidelines, which reflects this office’s and the Court’s view regarding the seriousness of the defendant’s fraudulent conduct,” said U. S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey. “The prosecution of individuals like this defendant and the lengthy sentence imposed serve to protect our banking institutions and their depositors and deter others from engaging in similar fraudulent conduct in the Eastern District of Tennessee.”
Law enforcement agencies participating in the joint investigation which led to indictment and subsequent conviction of Cook include the U.S. Department of Treasury, Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Secret Service, and the Alcoa Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank M. Dale, Jr. and Jennifer Kolman represented the United States at trial.
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U.S. Attorney J. Doug Overbey Announces $79,292 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the Blount County Sheriff’s Office received $79,292 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“This is no time for anyone to let up in the fight against COVID-19, and law enforcement cannot let down its guard against the dangers it presents. I’m very pleased to announce this grant award to the BCSO for its use in properly equipping and protecting its deputies as they continue to protect the citizens of Blount County,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $75,845 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the City of Kingsport received $75,845 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $58,008 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that Anderson County received $58,008 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $52,724 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the City of Johnson City received $52,724 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $43,683 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the City of Morristown received $43,683 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $58,008 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that Hamblen County received $58,008 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $374,730 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the City of Chattanooga received $374,730 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Department of Justice Awards Nearly $400 Million for Law Enforcement Hiring to Advance Community PolicingRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The Department of Justice announced nearly $400 million in grant funding through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The Attorney General announced funding awards to 596 law enforcement agencies across the nation, which allows those agencies to hire 2,732 additional full-time law enforcement professionals. The awards announced are inclusive of the $51 million announced in May as part of Operation Relentless Pursuit.
“The Department of Justice is committed to providing the police chiefs and sheriffs of our great nation with needed resources, tools, and support. The funding announced will bolster their ranks and contribute to expanding community policing efforts nationwide,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “A law enforcement agency’s most valuable assets are the men and women who put their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting and serving their communities.”
“We are pleased that these grants, which total over $2 million, will allow law enforcement agencies to hire 18 new positions within their respective departments in the Eastern District of Tennessee. The grants were awarded to the following departments: The City of Alcoa, Bradley County Sheriff’s Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, the Town of Jonesborough, LaFollette Police Department, Manchester Police Department, McMinnville Police Department, and the Union County Sheriff’s Department. I am confident that our local law enforcement agencies and communities will be able to use these new resources to protect and serve the citizens of East Tennessee even more effectively,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
The COPS Hiring Program is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing and, by providing direct funding for the hiring of career law enforcement officers. In addition to providing financial support for hiring, CHP provides funding to state, local, and tribal law enforcement to enhance local community policing strategies and tactics. In a changing economic climate, CHP funding helps law enforcement agencies maintain sufficient sworn personnel levels to promote safe communities. Funding through this program had been on hold since the spring of 2018 due to a nationwide injunction that was lifted earlier this year.
CHP applicants were required to identify a specific crime and disorder problem focus area and explain how the funding will implement community policing approaches to that problem focus area. 43 percent of the awards announced will focus on violent crime, while the remainder of the awards will focus on a variety of issues including school-based policing to fund school resource officer positions, building trust and respect, and opioid education, prevention, and intervention. The COPS Office received nearly 1,100 applications requesting over 4,000 law enforcement positions.
The complete list of awards can be found here at https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp-award
To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $35,403 Award to Address COVID-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the City of East Ridge received $35,403 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $32,229 Award to Address COVID-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office received $32,229 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $36,299 Award to Address COVID-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the Washington County Sheriff’s Office received $36,299 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Rogersville Man Sentenced to 15 Years on Methamphetamine and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
Greeneville, Tenn. – On May 26, 2020, Anthony Dwayne Sensabaugh, 33, currently of Rogersville, was sentenced by the Honorable Clifton L. Corker, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Greeneville.
Sensabaugh pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Sensabaugh was sentenced to 180 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release.
In 2017, the Third Judicial District’s Drug Task Force (DTF) made controlled purchases of methamphetamine and heroin from Sensabaugh. As a result, the DTF and Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on Sensabaugh’s residence. During the authorized search, law enforcement officers were able to recover 17.93 grams of heroin, 14.12 grams of a cocaine-base substance, 14.83 grams of cocaine, 52.24 grams of methamphetamine, 33.36 grams of marijuana, and a loaded .25 caliber pistol.
On February 4, 2019, deputies of the Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office arrested Sensabaugh for another offense. During an interview, Sensabaugh admitted to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agents and Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office that he frequently made purchases of methamphetamine in actual quantities of four to eight ounces weekly prior to the search warrant executed back in 2017.
“Our office fully supports our law enforcement partners’ investigative efforts to address the resurgence of heroin and other drugs within our region. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to prosecute individuals involved in the illegal drug and weapon activities that continue to plague our state,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
“Utilizing two of the DOJ’s national strategies to prevent crime, Project Guardian and Project Safe Neighborhood, this joint collaboration between local, state, and federal partners helped to ensure there is one less gun on the streets that can be used to perpetuate criminal activity. This focused investigation and future investigations like it will have a lasting impact within our community,” ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge Frank Haera stated.
“This is a great example of local and federal law enforcement agencies working closely to eradicate dangerous drug dealers out of our communities. The drug dealer’s residence was located across the street from a middle school, which jeopardized the safety and well-being of school staff and its students,” said Sheriff Ronnie Lawson of the Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office.
The criminal indictment resulted from an investigation by the Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office, the Third Judicial District’s Drug Task Force, and ATF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Martin represented the United States in court.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a comprehensive national strategy that creates local partnerships with law enforcement agencies to effectively enforce existing gun laws. It provides more options to prosecutors, allowing them to utilize local, state, and federal laws to ensure that criminals who commit gun crime face tough sentences. PSN gives each federal district the flexibility it needs to focus on individual challenges that a specific community faces.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information, please visit this site: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $57,554 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that Hamilton County received $57,554 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $36,437 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the City of Oak Ridge received $36,437 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $41,405 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that Bradley County Sheriff’s office received $41,405 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $349,956 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the City of Knoxville received $349,956 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney Overbey Recognizes Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“I am constantly amazed by the hard-working men and women who put on the uniform each day, choosing to risk their lives to serve their communities. These men and women put their lives on the line in situations none of us can fully comprehend or appreciate, all in the pursuit of justice and the protection of the law-abiding public. These men and woman on the front lines don’t back down, even in the face of unprecedented situations like the COVID-19 pandemic. I want to personally thank each and every individual who strives to make our community safe with their continued support,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, and four officers from the Eastern District of Tennessee.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). To register to view this free online event, please www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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Op Ed: U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Pens Op Ed to Recognize Law Enforcement During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
On April 10, 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as "Peace Officers Memorial Day" and the week in which it falls as "Police Week," recognizing the essential role our law enforcement agencies play in safeguarding the rights and freedoms guaranteed to every American citizen by the Constitution.
Each day, the members of our law enforcement agencies fulfill their duty to serve the people by, in the words of President Kennedy, "safeguarding life and property, by protecting them against violence and disorder, and by protecting the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression and intimidation."
Each year, communities across the United States come together during National Police Week to commemorate police officers, past and present, who, by their faithful service and loyal devotion to duty, protect our communities.
We especially pay tribute to and remember those law enforcement officers who have suffered debilitating injuries in the line of duty or who have made the ultimate sacrifice and the family members, friends, and fellow officers they have left behind.
During the week of May 10-16, a number of virtual activities are taking place across the nation. Please visit our twitter page for more information at: https://twitter.com/USAO_EDTN, #PoliceWeek2020, or #PoliceWeek.
The 32nd Annual Candlelight Vigil will be held on May 13th across the nation. This year the names of 307 officers killed in the line of duty and will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC. https://nleomf.org/virtual-candle and #UnitedByLight.
Over 800,000 law enforcement officers serve communities across the United States, including the dedicated members of law enforcement who protect and serve the citizens of east Tennessee.
A top priority of the United States Department of Justice is to support all of our law enforcement partners throughout the country. Attorney General Barr has emphasized to U.S. Attorneys our commitment to support law enforcement in the performance of their duties and affirm the critical role of police officers in our society.
All federal, state, and local law enforcement partners play a vital role in ensuring that there is justice for victims. State and local officers comprise eighty-five percent of all law enforcement. They are the backbone of our law enforcement efforts. In the Eastern District of Tennessee, we value and respect the job they do.
Since the first recorded death in 1791, more than 21,000 law enforcement officers in the United States have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Statistics from the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund from January 1 through May 6, 2020, indicate 84 officers have been killed in the line of duty across the nation this year already, 18 of which were firearms-related.
In November 2019, the Department of Justice announced a new initiative, Project Guardian, designed to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearm laws across the country. This new initiative involves a combined-agency approach on gun crimes, emphasizing improved information-sharing and coordination in the prosecution of federal and state firearms laws and reviewing cases involving gun crimes to determine whether federal or state prosecution would be more appropriate. Currently, 251 cases have been brought forward to U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide for prosecution.
As U.S. Attorney, I am committed to this program, and our office backs our law enforcement partners every step of the way. None of us can combat violent crime on his own. Working together, however, we can have a meaningful impact.
During this week dedicated to remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, I would like to say THANK YOU to all members of local, state, and federal law enforcement for their dedication and the sacrifices they make each day to make our community, state, and nation safe.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $33,541 Award to Address COVID-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that Shelbyville Police department received $33,541 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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DOJ Increases Efforts to Combat Sexual Harassment in Housing During the COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey is asking anyone who has witnessed or experienced sexual harassment by a landlord, property manager, maintenance worker, or anyone with control over housing to report that conduct to the Department of Justice.
The COVID-19 Pandemic has impacted the ability of many people to pay rent on time and has increased housing insecurity. The Department of Justice has heard reports of housing providers trying to exploit the crisis to sexually harass tenants. Sexual harassment in housing is illegal, and the Department of Justice stands ready to investigate such allegations and pursue enforcement actions where appropriate.
“Those that seek to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic in order to sexually harass and threaten their occupants and renters must be stopped. Our offices will continue to work with our local, state, and federal partners to investigate, prevent, and prosecute any housing provider seeking to take advantage of their vulnerable tenants during this time of crisis,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Eastern Tennessee will work closely with state and local partners to identify incidents of sexual harassment in housing.
The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is an effort to combat sexual harassment in housing led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. The goal of the Initiative is to address sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing.
Launched in 2017, the Initiative has filed lawsuits across the county alleging a pattern or practice of sexual harassment in housing and recovered millions of dollars in damages for harassment victims. The Justice Department’s investigations frequently uncover sexual harassment that has been ongoing for years. Many individuals do not know that being sexually harassed by a housing provider can violate federal law or that the Department of Justice may help.
The Department of Justice, through the Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices, enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability. Sexual harassment is a sex discrimination prohibited Act.
The Department encourages anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, to contact the Civil Rights Division by calling (844) 380-6178 or emailing [email protected].
Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee at https://www.justice.gov/usao-edtn/victim-witness-assistance
Individuals may also file a complaint alleging harassment or discrimination in housing with the Department of Housing and Urban Development through HUD’s website or by calling (800) 669-9777.
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Mexican Citizen Charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute 20 Kilos of CocaineRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – Luis Daniel Hernandez Mendoza, 31, a citizen of Mexico, has been charged in a criminal complaint, which is supported by an affidavit, in case number 3:20-MJ 2110, with possession with intent to distribute 20 kilos of cocaine. An initial appearance is scheduled for Friday, May 1, at 2:00 p.m., in United States District Court in Knoxville, before the Honorable H. Bruce Guyton, United States Magistrate Judge.
In summary, the affidavit alleges that the Tennessee Highway Patrol stopped Hernandez-Mendoza for a traffic violation. Hernandez-Mendoza consented to a vehicle search. During the search of the vehicle, agents from the Tennessee Highway Patrol and DEA found twenty kilograms of cocaine concealed in a trap compartment in the vehicle.
The case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Assistant U. S. Attorney Cynthia Davidson represents the United States.
If convicted, Hernandez-Mendoza faces a term of imprisonment of not less than 10 years and up to life. The public is reminded that all persons accused of a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Op Ed: Crime Victims and Public Safety During Covid-19Read the Press Release
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981and established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. Likewise, the current Administration has implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.
In FY 2020, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) will award more than $1.6 billion in victim assistance formula funding to support domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, child advocacy programs, homicide support groups, identity theft services, and local victim assistance programs. Through initiatives such as Project Guardian and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Justice Department is using more data, resources, and technology than ever before to prevent firearms from illegally coming into possession of known domestic abusers and violent offenders.
This year Victims’ Rights Week has occurred in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, from the beginning of the coronavirus crisis, Attorney General Barr made it clear that the critical law enforcement mission of the Justice Department will continue. All of us in law
enforcement – federal, state, local and tribal - are committed to maintaining public safety and the rule of law amidst this crisis.
As the coronavirus outbreak in this country intensified, we have seen proposals advocating the indiscriminate wholesale release of prisoners from state and federal custody. The Department of Justice is taking a proactive, but lawful and safe, approach to expanding the use of home confinement, but only for those inmates who do not pose a danger to their communities. The Attorney General has made clear that public safety, including the safety of victims, is paramount.
Put in other words, we cannot let a public health crisis become a public safety crisis. For example, sending domestic abusers home in the midst of this crisis, where victims of domestic abuse are more isolated than ever, is irresponsible.
While violent crime is decreasing during the pandemic, domestic violence calls for service are on the rise. People are more isolated. Abusive partners are under more stress. The options for escape are limited. These situations are especially dangerous for police, who are killed or injured all too often responding to domestic violence calls.
In the federal prison system alone, prisoners in federal custody have been convicted of child exploitation and violent crimes. COVID-19 presents real risks but so does allowing serious criminals such as violent gang members and child predators to roam free.
Police are already at elevated risk to this virus, and some have lost their lives to it. The last thing they need is additional burdens from released prisoners who go on to commit more crimes against a vulnerable community.
Attorney General Barr makes it crystal clear that our paramount concern must always be the safety of our communities. We, in the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee, dedicate ourselves to protecting the rights of victims and preventing victimization not only as we paused to recognize National Crime Victims’ Rights Week but also during this crisis and throughout the year.
J. Douglas Overbey
United States Attorney
Eastern District of TennesseeU.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $61,833 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that Sullivan County Sheriff’s office received $61,833 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Department of Justice Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime will join communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services. This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, “Seek Justice| Ensure Victims' Rights | Inspire Hope.”
The National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when we can honor this year’s award recipients in person. During the ceremony, OVC will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims. The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy and victim services. Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.
“Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need. We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”
“While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs, which oversees OVC. “This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion.”
“The U.S. Attorney’s office ensures year-round that victims of crime are protected and have equal, constitutional rights on the same level as those accused and convicted of crimes. If you are the victim of any violent or white collar crimes, it is normal to feel frightened, helpless, and vulnerable. Remember you are not alone. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is here to help,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey. More information about Crime Victims’ Rights Week can be found at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw. You may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Tennessee’s Victim Witness Program at 423-385-1341.
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. President Trump and his administration have implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.
Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey. The Office for Victims of Crime, part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports over 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory. Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, comprises of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.
During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings, and online public awareness campaigns.
“Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people,” said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart. “I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival. I encourage everyone to find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors.”
For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $34,024 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that Greene County Sheriff’s office received $32,024 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces More Than $60 Million in Grants Available to Support Prisoners' Successful Reentry into Their CommunitiesRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that nearly $60 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address public safety by supporting successful reentry of adult and juvenile offenders into their communities.
"Our nation is facing difficult public safety challenges that demand strong and immediate action. The high rate of recidivism poses a dire threat to community safety and is being met with a robust response by this Administration," said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. "The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this persistent challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions."
"The U.S. Attorney’s office will continue to make a concerted effort to cooperate with our law enforcement and community partners to be both smart and tough on crime. Our office components include crime prevention, prosecution of serious and violent criminals, and the successful reentry of ex-offenders," said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including adult and juvenile reentry initiatives and research projects designed to improve our knowledge of what works in reentry programming.
A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future.
Correctional Adult Reentry Education, Employment, and Recidivism Reduction Strategies Program:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17104
Total Available $7.2 million Deadline 4/27/2020
Improving Community Supervision Outcomes Through Swift, Certain, and Fair Responses:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17096
Total Available $3 million Deadline 4/28/2020
Improving Reentry for People with Substance Use Disorders Program:
https://bja.ojp.gov/SCASUD20
Total Available $13.2 million Deadline 4/27/2020
Innovations in Reentry Initiative: Building System Capacity & Testing Strategies to Reduce Recidivism:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17281
Total Available $4 million Deadline 5/4/2020
Research and Evaluation on Promising Reentry Initiatives :
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17295
Total Available $6 million Deadline 5/5/2020
Review and Validation of the First Step Act Risk Assessment Tool:
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-fsa
Total Available: Determined after selection Deadline 4/10/2020
Second Chance Act Community-Based Reentry Program:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17110
Total Available $13.5 million Deadline 5/4/2020
Second Chance Act Evaluation Participation Support:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17680
Total Available $4 million Deadline 4/28/2020
Second Chance Act Youth Offender Reentry Program:
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/media/document/ojjdp-2020-17350.pdf
Total Available $7 million Deadline 4/28/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces More Than $83 Million Available to Support School SafetyRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that more than $83 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities improve school security and protect students, teachers and faculty from threats of violence.
"School violence is no longer an abstract threat but has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities. Moving to meet this challenge is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”“Keeping our children safe in and out of school is a matter of critical importance, and I am pleased to join the COPS Office in announcing these grants which will help provide our educators and their communities with potential funding to support our joint goal of school safety. These grant opportunities are direct resources to help accomplish this vital mission of keeping our schools and children safe,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to tighten school security and improve the reporting of threats.
A number of funding opportunities for school safety are currently open, with another opening in the near future:
Research and Evaluation on School Safety:
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308
Total Available $5 million Deadline 4/13/2020
STOP Act School Violence Program (FY20):
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308
Total Available $71.4 million Deadline 4/13/2020
Strategies to Support Children Exposed to Violence:
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17926
Total Available $7 million Deadline 4/27/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.
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Op-Ed: Tennessee's Top Prosecutors Urge the Public to Report Coronavirus and Disaster-Relief FraudRead the Press Release
The United States Attorneys for the Eastern, Middle, and Western Districts of Tennessee together with Tennessee’s Attorney General Make Prosecuting Fraud Schemes Top Priority
Tennessee’s top prosecutors—three United States Attorneys and the Tennessee Attorney General—are coordinating their efforts to prevent Tennesseans from being victimized by fraud schemes and other unlawful acts during disaster-relief efforts and the coronavirus pandemic and will investigate and prosecute all instances of coronavirus-related fraud schemes targeting Tennesseans.
Sadly, many Americans fall victim to fraud schemes every day. Our offices are working to investigate and prosecute all schemes related to the coronavirus that are designed to defraud Tennesseans. Our mission is to make sure Tennesseans remain safe from fraudsters during these difficult times.
Although these crises have brought out the best in most Americans, there will always be some individuals who will attempt to profit during a time of emergency. Our offices will not tolerate those who exploit the fear of our most vulnerable citizens. Together we will protect the safety and security of our nation during the COVID-19 pandemic. We will be vigilant in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting any fraud scheme related to coronavirus. And, as the central Tennessee region recovers from the damage caused by the devastating tornados, our offices will also coordinate to investigate and prosecute any fraud schemes related to the ongoing disaster-relief efforts.
Unfortunately, during difficult times, bad actors attempt to capitalize on unsuspecting victims. We want these bad actors to know that taking advantage of these crises will not be tolerated. Any attempt to do so will quickly be investigated and prosecuted. To confront fraud schemes related to the coronavirus, U.S. Attorney General William Barr has directed the United States Attorneys and their offices to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of fraud schemes related to the coronavirus. The Tennessee Attorney General’s office has made uncovering and prosecuting these sorts of schemes a priority for his office as well.
We have acted swiftly to pinpoint and address potential avenues of fraud. One avenue of fraud we are currently addressing is the hoarding of vital medical items and personal protective equipment, including N-95 facemasks, surgical masks and gloves, and disinfecting devices, for the purpose of reselling these items for windfall profits at the expense of public safety and the health and welfare of our fellow citizens. Hoarding and price-gouging frustrate the heroic efforts of our health care professionals who are fighting this epidemic on the front lines.
Likewise, we will not tolerate instances of fraud, including the selling of fake coronavirus test kits, social media scams, phishing emails asking for money, prescription drug schemes, or any other attempt to prey on the vulnerability of our citizens. We cannot—and we will not—allow opportunists to spark fear in our citizens. As frightening as it may sound, everyone is a potential target. Please be assured, however, our offices will investigate and prosecute anyone who exploits or attempts to exploit our vulnerable citizens during this crisis.
We ask for your help in reporting any suspicious behavior. If you suspect fraud related to the coronavirus or the disaster-relief efforts related to the tornadoes in the central Tennessee region, please report it through the link at National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) or the NCDF Hotline at 866-720-5721. To contact the Tennessee Attorney General, call 615-741-4737 or email [email protected]. Reports of suspected price gouging should include details of the name and location of the merchant, date and time of purchase, method of payment, receipts, price of the item in days prior to the sudden price increase, and the price you paid. Please let your families and neighbors know about our fraud prevention efforts and that we will do our part to investigate and prosecute wrongdoing. More information on these fraud schemes can be found at www.justice.gov/coronavirus
Please be safe and stay healthy during these difficult times, and may God bless you and your loved ones.
Department of Justice Makes $850 Million Available to Help Public Safety Agencies Address COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
$7.2 Million Available to Tennessee
Knoxville, Tenn.– The Department of Justice today announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
“This is a time of unprecedented challenge for state and local law enforcement agencies. These grants that have been made available will enhance their ability to protect the public while also enhancing their capability to protect and keep safe those law enforcement officers who are on the streets protecting us every single day,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey for the Eastern District of Tennessee.
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces More Than $163 Million Available to Fight Addiction CrisisRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that more than $163 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address America’s addiction crisis.
"Our nation is facing the difficult challenge of curbing substance addiction, which threatens public safety and is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities," said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. "The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions."
"Our office will continue to work with local, state, and federal leaders to help educate the public regarding the dangers involved in the improper use and abuse of these powerful substances," said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to prevent overdose deaths and break the cycle of addiction and crime.
A number of funding opportunities that address the addiction crisis are currently open:
Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17098
Total Available $1.75 million Deadline 5/14/2020
Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program:
https://bja.ojp.gov/COSSAP20
Total Available $27 million Deadline 5/21/2020
Enhancing Community Responses to America's Addiction Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims:
https://uat.ovc.ojp.gov/funding/awards/2020-v3-gx-k162
Total Available: $19 million Deadline: 5/4/2020
Family Drug Court Program:
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17090
Total Available $18.2 million Deadline 4/8/2020 (Extended)
Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17754
Total Available $28.1 Deadline 5/5/2020
Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program:
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17051
Total Available $7.2 million Deadline 4/13/2020 (Extended)
Mentoring Opportunities for Youth Initiative:
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-16930
Total Available $48 million Deadline 4/13/2020
Opioid Affected Youth Initiative:
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17352
Total Available $9 million Deadline 4/20/2020
Research and Evaluation on Drugs and Crime:
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17275
Total Available $1 million Deadline 4/20/2020
Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners:
https://bja.ojp.gov/RSAT20
Total Available $4.5 million Deadline 4/6/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
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Indiana Man Charged with Traveling to Tennessee to Have Sex with a 13-Year-Old ChildRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – Aungsun Naywin, 31, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, has been charged in the U. S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee with traveling from Indiana to East Tennessee for the purpose of having sex with a 13-year-old girl on March 21, 2020. Naywin was charged in a criminal complaint in case number 3:20-MJ 1052, which is supported by an affidavit on file with the Clerk of Court.
The affidavit alleges that Naywin met the young girl on Snapchat and, after learning the girl was a minor, arranged a sexual encounter with her. The affidavit alleges that he drove from Indiana to Morgan County, Tennessee, where he picked up the girl, took her to a remote location, and raped her in the van he was driving.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Morgan and Anderson County Sheriff offices. Assistant U. S. Attorney Jennifer Kolman represents the United States.
If convicted, Naywin faces a term of imprisonment of not less than 10 years and up to life. The public is reminded that all persons accused of a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces More Than $65 Million Available to Fight Human Trafficking and Help Trafficking VictimsRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that more than $65 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities combat human trafficking and serve adults and children who are victimized in trafficking operations.
“Our nation is facing difficult challenges, none more pressing than the scourge of human trafficking. Human traffickers pose a dire threat to public safety and countering this threat remains one of the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight against this insidious crime. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”
“It is important to take the time to focus on the victim in the aftermath of a traumatic crime like human trafficking and to address their needs for safety and justice. Our office will continue its efforts to build that trust and restore the hope of those victims and their communities. We all play a role in helping victims as they rebuild their lives within our communities,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs that support human trafficking task forces and services for human trafficking survivors.
A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future.
Missing and Exploited Children Training and Tecnical Assistance Program:
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17351Total Available $1.8 million Deadline 4/6/2020 (Extended)
Multidisciplinary Task Force Program to Combat Human Trafficking:
Total Available $22 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Preventing Trafficking of Girls:
Total Available $1.7 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Research and Evaluation on Trafficking in Persons:
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17324Total Available $2.5 million Deadline 4/20/2020
Services for Victims of Human Trafficking:
Total Available $16.5 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Specialized Training and Technical Assistance on Housing for Victims of Human Trafficking:
Total Available $2 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Human Trafficking Training and Technical Assistance Program:
Total Available $5 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Improving Outcomes for Child and Youth Victims of Human Trafficking:
Total Available $6 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
Integrated Services for Minor Victims of Labor Trafficking:
Total Available $8 million Opens week of 3/16/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
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U.S. Attorney urges the public to report suspected COVID-19 fraudRead the Press Release
AUSA William Roach Appointed as Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator
Knoxville, Tenn – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today urged the public to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or to the NCDF e-mail address [email protected].
In coordination with the Department of Justice, Attorney General William Barr has directed U.S. Attorneys to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of Coronavirus fraud schemes.
“Federal law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will quickly react to the expected scourge of abuse, exploitation and financial fraud related to Coronavirus crimes. We will vigorously prosecute anyone who targets our citizens, whether it be door-to-door, over the phone or online, all of which is simply despicable conduct in this time of crisis,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
Some examples of these schemes include:
- Individuals and businesses selling fake cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud.
- Phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Malicious websites and apps that appear to share Coronavirus-related information to gain and lock access to your devices until payment is received.
- Seeking donations fraudulently for illegitimate or non-existent charitable organizations.
- Medical providers obtaining patient information for COVID-19 testing and then using that information to fraudulently bill for other tests and procedures.
In a memorandum to U.S. Attorneys issued March 19, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen also directed each U.S. Attorney to appoint a Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator to serve as the legal counsel for the federal judicial district on matters relating to the Coronavirus, direct the prosecution of Coronavirus-related crimes, and to conduct outreach and awareness activities. The Eastern District of Tennessee Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator is AUSA William Roach.
The NCDF can receive and enter complaints into a centralized system that can be accessed by all U.S. Attorneys, as well as Justice Department litigating and law enforcement components to identify, investigate and prosecute fraud schemes. The NCDF coordinates complaints with 16 additional federal law enforcement agencies, as well as state Attorneys General and local authorities.
To find more about Department of Justice resources and information, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
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East Tennessee United States Attorney Warns Public About Coronavirus Scams Targeting the ElderlyRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. ---United States Attorney J. Douglas Overbey said today there have been advertisements and claims on television and on the internet touting “cures” for the coronavirus. He asked that the public and especially our senior citizens, who are most susceptible to serious harm from COVID-19, be wary of responding to any such advertising or scheme.
“Unfortunately, in times of crisis, a segment of our society targets elderly persons with schemes that are designed simply to take advantage of them and defraud them out of their money,” U.S. Attorney Overbey stated. “I urge people to be aware of the falsehoods contained in these advertisements and vigilant to avoid becoming victims of a scam.”
The public should continue to monitor the bulletins from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the fight against COVID-19. There is no known cure for this disease at this time, and citizens should refrain from interacting with anyone who claims otherwise.
“We further ask that anyone who believes they have been or are being targeted in any scam related to this illness come forward at the earliest possible moment and report it to a law enforcement agency. Those who seek to take advantage of members of our community by preying on their fears regarding COVID-19 must be stopped,” added Overbey.
The Department of Justice recently announced the launch of a National Elder Fraud Hotline, which provides services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud. The Hotline is staffed by experienced case managers who can provide personalized support to callers. Case managers assist callers with reporting the suspected fraud to relevant agencies and by providing resources and referrals to other appropriate services as needed. When applicable, case managers will complete a complaint form with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) for Internet-facilitated crimes and submit a consumer complaint to the Federal Trade Commission on behalf of the caller. The Hotline’s toll free number is 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).
Eastern District of Tennessee Investigation Leads to the Seizure of More Than One Ton of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tennessee — Jose Cruz Landeroz-Tovar, Mariono Gonzales, Luis Albert Cruz, Aldolfo Dominguez, Luis Fernando Pena-Fierro, and Maria Magana, all of Mexico, were arrested on March 10, 2020, in the Northern District of Georgia by agents of Homeland Security Investigations on charges involving the conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
All six of the defendants had their initial appearance on March 10, 2020, in the United States District Court in Knoxville, Tennessee, before the Honorable Debra C. Poplin, United States Magistrate Judge.
The details of the charge, the conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, are outlined in the criminal complaint and supporting affidavit, which are attached to this press release and are filed as public records in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Knoxville. If convicted each defendant faces a mandatory term of imprisonment of 10 years with a maximum term of imprisonment of life, at least 5 years on supervised release, and a fine of up to $10,000,000.
In summary, the affidavit alleges that a drug trafficking organization coordinated the distribution of kilogram quantities of methamphetamine from the Northern District of Georgia into the Eastern District of Tennessee and other areas. During the investigation, using a variety of investigative techniques, law enforcement identified a stash location in the Northern District of Georgia. On March 9, 2020, a federal search warrant was executed at that location and approximately 864 kilograms of methamphetamine were seized. A search warrant at a separate location yielded an additional 52 kilograms of methamphetamine. In total, the seized methamphetamine has a street level value in excess of $13,000,000.
The ongoing investigation leading to this seizure and arrests was the product of a partnership between Homeland Security Investigations, Knoxville; Tennessee Bureau of Investigation; Internal Revenue Service, Knoxville; Homeland Security Investigations, Atlanta; Drug Enforcement Administration, Atlanta, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Georgia Department of Corrections, Gwinnett Metro Task Force, Gwinnett County, Georgia, the Georgia Highway Patrol, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Atlanta, Drug Enforcement Administration, Knoxville, and the 9th Judicial Drug Task Force, Tennessee. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia was a critical partner in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Quencer, with the Eastern District of Tennessee, will represent the United States.
Members of the public are reminded that these are only charges and that every person is presumed innocent until his or her guilt has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation is a result of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s drug supply reduction strategy. OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multi-level attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
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All Five Defendants Convicted in Federal Cream Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Chattanooga, Tenn. – All five defendants have been convicted in federal court for their roles in a scheme defrauding both private insurance companies and government insurance programs of over $30 million dollars. The scheme involved sham prescriptions for compounded creams and medications, oftentimes issued without the supposed patient even knowing about them, and were frequently signed by a health care provider who never even met the patient.
Jerry Wayne Wilkerson, 40, Michael Chatfield, 31, Kasey Nicholson, 34, Billy Hindmon, 39, and Jayson Montgomery, 40, were convicted in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Chattanooga. The Honorable Harry S. Mattice, Jr. presided over the trial and scheduled sentencing for all five individuals for June 8, 2020.
The charges of healthcare fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud, illegal kickbacks, and money laundering in the 178-count indictment centered on a scheme in which the defendants marketed topical creams and other medications through prescription drug coverage plans that paid for the creams and medications. The creams were compounded by a pharmacy, meaning they were supposed to have been uniquely formulated specifically for the needs of an individual patient, thus justifying the exorbitant cost- sometimes more than $15,000 per tube. However, the proof at trial showed there was nothing unique about these creams, and in fact the prescription forms were usually pre-printed documents filled out in mass by the marketers. A health care provider’s signature was oftentimes stamped on the document by employees of the defendants. The defendants all profited from the fraud, including the pocketing of millions of dollars of kickbacks from prescriptions billed to Tricare, which is the government-funded health insurance program for active duty and retired military servicemen and women.
The four-year investigation revealed that the defendants used a network of in-person marketing by convincing friends and family members to sign up for revolving shipments of exorbitantly priced topical creams and medications, some prescribed without seeing a physician or others which were not medically necessary. The majority of the time, these medications were neither needed nor wanted by the named patient but were ordered strictly for monetary gain. On some occasions, orders were placed without the knowledge or approval of the patient, and their insurance would then be billed for these items. The proof at trial showed that Wilkerson collected at least $13 million in commissions from the scheme.
Insurance companies and Tricare paid a total of roughly $35 million for the compounded medications in this case.
“Fraud such as this affects everyone. It increases what we all pay for healthcare and prescription drugs. Scam artists put their own financial interests ahead of the safety of others and ignore instituted laws, which protect the taxpayer and our funded healthcare system,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey. “Worse, much of the fraud in this case was directed at Tricare, the government program which insures our active duty and retired military personnel. The Hamilton County School System, a self-insured system funded by the taxpayers of Hamilton County, was also defrauded of over $950,000. When people steal from the taxpayers, they steal from all of us.”
“A key aspect of the FDA’s mission to protect the public health is creating a regulatory framework that helps ensure that compounded drugs are dispensed only under a valid prescription and to patients who have a legitimate medical need for them,” said H. Peter Kuehl, Acting Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Miami Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who put profits above the health and safety of Americans.”
Assistant United States Attorneys Perry H. Piper and Frank P. Clark represented the United States at trial and were assisted by paralegal Kris Eslinger. The case was investigated by Special Agent Brian Kriplean, Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, and Special Agents Erik Srock and Marian Schmidt, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Services.
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Cory Ryan Day Sentenced for Enticement of a Child for Sexual Purposes and Traveling with the Intent to Illicit Sexual ConductRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tennessee – On March 10, 2020, Cory Ryan Day, 24, currently of Huntsville, was sentenced by the Honorable Thomas A. Varlan in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Knoxville.
As part of a plea agreement, Cory Ryan Day agreed to plead guilty to an information charging him with one count of enticement of a child for sexual purposes in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b) and one count of traveling with the intent to illicit sexual conduct in violation of 18 U.S.C. 2423(a). Day was sentenced to 120 months in prison, followed by 12 years of supervised release. Day will be required to register with state sex offender registries and comply with special sex offender conditions during his supervised release.
In September and October of 2018, in the Eastern District of Tennessee, Day contacted a 15-year-old boy through Snapchat, a social media site. Day sent the minor a video of a couple having sex. Day then offered to pay the minor $200 and buy him alcohol if he would allow Day to have sexual contact with him. The minor refused.
At the end of December of 2018, a young girl began receiving messages on Snapchat from Day, who purported to be a teenage girl and sent naked photos of a teenage girl. Day subsequently requested naked photos of the young girl. Day then arranged a meeting with her, offering money and cigarettes in exchange for allowing Day to engage in illicit sexual conduct with her. Day traveled from Scott County in the Eastern District of Tennessee to the Eastern District of Kentucky to meet the girl.
At the time of the crimes, Day was a teacher and coach with the Scott County Schools.
“This case is unfortunately representative of the calculated misuse of the Internet and social media by sexual predators,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey. “As parents, we need to be ever vigilant in protecting the children entrusted to our care. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to prosecute to the full extent of the law those who use social media to entice and prey on children for illicit purposes.”
“Children are among the most vulnerable members of our community. They must be protected in any way we can. This investigation is a great example of the work that can be done when state and federal law enforcement agencies work together to remove those intent on harming the safety and well-being of our youth,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Joe Carrico.
The criminal information was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. This investigation was led by FBI Special Agent Kristina Norris.
Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Kolman represented the United States.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006, by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab "resources.”
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Washington State Man Sentenced for Child Exploitation in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Chattanooga, Tenn. – On March 4, 2020, Mark Douglas Gould, 50, currently of Port Orchard, Washington, was sentenced by the Honorable Curtis L. Collier, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
As part of the plea agreement, Gould pled guilty to an indictment charging him with one count of knowingly using a facility or means of interstate commerce in an attempt to persuade, induce, entice, or coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity. Gould was sentenced to 210 months in prison, followed by 10 years’ supervised release. Gould is required to register with the state sex offender registry in any state in which he lives, works, or attends school and to comply with special sex offender conditions during his supervised release.
In January 2019, Gould responded to an online advertisement offering to permit someone to engage in online sexually oriented live transmissions with an 8-year-old in exchange for child pornography. During the on-line conversation, Gould proffered an additional child in exchange for sexually explicit content. Law enforcement officials apprehended the individual who was offering the advertised content and took over the account, assuming the role of the initial contact. Gould continued his efforts and, in doing so, distributed child pornography and offered payment to take part in a live transmission. Ultimately, Gould traveled from Washington state to Chattanooga, Tennessee, intending to engage in sexual contact with the child, and was then arrested.
“Predators who actually travel in an attempt to victimize and have sexual contact with children are the worst of their kind. Collaborative efforts of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies resulted in this defendant no longer being able to circulate images and videos of sexually abuse of children,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey. “To those who choose to do the same, know that we’re coming for you, and we’ll put you away for as long as the law allows.”
“Sexual predators use the Internet and social media to find children, victimize them and entice illicit sexual activity. This crime is deplorable and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent possible by law,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Jerry C. Templet Jr. “This sentencing should send a message that the United States will aggressively investigate and prosecute those who choose to participate in the continued victimization of children.”
The criminal indictment resulted from an ongoing investigation by the Chattanooga Crimes Against Children Task Force, comprised of agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department, and the Chattanooga Police Department. This investigation was led by HSI Special Agent Dave Nalley.
Assistant United States Attorney James T. Brooks represented the United States.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006, by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
For more information about internet safety education, go to www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html click on the tab "resources.”
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