Western District of Tennessee
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
29 Indicted on Federal Drug Trafficking Charges; 14 are “Young Mob” Gang MembersRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Fourteen defendants of a violent, drug trafficking street gang, along with fifteen individuals not affiliated with "Young Mob" were indicted on federal drug charges. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the charges yesterday.
First indictment
Yesterday, members of the ATF Memphis Field Office, U.S. Marshals Office, Tipton County Sheriff’s Office and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office arrested fourteen defendants named in an indictment as members and associates of the Young Mob gang, an armed drug trafficking organization.
The arrests and indictment are the result of an extensive investigation by federal, state and local law enforcement officials into the Young Mob gang, which began in 2016. During the investigation, officials were able to determine that members and associates of the gang were distributing large quantities of narcotics throughout the Western District of Tennessee.
"As the indictment alleges, members of the "Young Mob" distributed substantial amounts of drugs throughout West Tennessee. In addition, members of the "Young Mob" also brought dangerous weapons into our community," said Acting U.S. Attorney Laurenzi. "We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to eliminate the violence gang members inflict upon our communities and put a stop to their criminal enterprises. In accomplishing these goals, we will exhaust every available resource to bring them to justice. Dismantling violent gangs at the highest levels remains a priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners."
The fourteen defendants arrested are:
• Travlis Banks, a/k/a "Puncho," 37, of Memphis, TN;
• Cordarius Frost, a/k/a "Red," a/k/a "Lil Red," 26, of Memphis, TN;
• Antwaun Mathews, a/k/a "Twaun," a/k/a "Mobhomie Twaun," 27, of Memphis, TN;
• Ronneill Ross, a/k/a "BG,"37, of Memphis, TN;
• Cortney Williams, a/k/a "CC," 26, of Memphis, TN;
• Darrell Booth, a/k/a "Boo," a/k/a "Pawntell,"37, of Memphis, TN;
• Rubin Hampton, 26, of Memphis, TN;
• Johnquis Jones, a/k/a "Bug," 24, of Memphis, TN;
• Anthony Allen, a/k/a/ "UNC," 50, of Memphis, TN;
• Damein Pack, 32, of Memphis, TN;
• Carlus Johnson, 34, of Memphis, TN;
• Shavita Hampton 25, of Memphis, TN;
• Angela Boyd, a/k/a "Auntie," 53, of Memphis, TN;
• Tori Dickson, 24, of Memphis, TN.Steve Gerido, ATF Special Agent in Charge said, "The relentless proactive approach of this investigation by ATF and our partners has severely limited the criminal behavior in the affected Memphis neighborhoods. ATF will remain engaged as we move forward in an effort to protect the public from violent offenders. Support from the public is crucial as the reporting of illegal activity is encouraged through ATF’s report it phone app."
The investigation resulted in the seizure of more than forty firearms, several of which were stolen; 15-20 digital scales, several cellular telephones, hundreds of different caliber rounds of ammunition and several magazines for firearms. Law enforcement also seized $85,661 in cash, which was derived from the sale of narcotics and firearms.
The case was investigated by the ATF Memphis Field Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tipton County Sheriff’s Office, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, the United States Marshals Service, and the Memphis Gang Unit.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Sam Stringfellow is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
Second indictment
A second indictment charged fifteen residents of the Memphis area for conspiring to distribute large quantities of drugs throughout West Tennessee. Today nine defendants were taken into custody by federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
According to the indictment, on or about March 1, 2016, and continuing through the returning of the indictment, the defendants conspired to distribute various controlled substances, including methamphetamine, marijuana, cocaine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and alprazolam (Xanax). Three defendants have also been indicted for conspiring to commit money laundering.
"As alleged, these defendants worked together to distribute all sorts of illegal drugs throughout the Memphis area, while lining their pockets with the illicit proceeds," said Acting U.S. Attorney Laurenzi. "These charges and arrests show that we will bring to justice those who peddle this poison, particularly to our children and young adults. I thank the FBI, the Multi-Agency Gang Unit, and all our partners for their diligent efforts on this case, and I’d like to express particular gratitude to the federal, state and local law enforcement officials who took part in today’s takedown."
The nine defendants who have been arrested are:
• Rodriccos Broadnax, a/k/a "Rico," 22, of Memphis, TN;
• Jerome Taylor, a/k/a/ "Rome," a/k/a "Three Pop," 56, of Memphis, TN;
• Teeka Shannon, 34, of Memphis, TN;
• Angela Weaver, 41, of Memphis, TN;
• Richard Cobb, 48, of Bartlett, TN;
• Paul Williams, 33, of Lakeland, TN;
• Arteleious Ingram, a/k/a "Block," 29, of Memphis, TN;
• Brandon Davison, a/k/a/ "Millwood," a/k/a/ "Lil B," 29, of Memphis, TN;
• Shalandria Jackson, a/k/a "Pumpkin," 24, of Memphis, TN."Gang-related drug trafficking continued to plague our communities. These arrests will help return the affected neighborhoods to places where residents can live and work, and enjoy their communities free from the distraction of gangs, guns, drugs and violence," said Matthew W. Espenshade, Acting Special Agent in Charge of theMemphis Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. "It is the continued commitment of the FBI and our partners to disrupt and dismantle gang activity to ensure a safer community."
Count 1 charges Jerome Taylor, Larry Broadnax, Rodriccos Broadnax, Teeka Shannon, Jason Washington, Angela Weaver, Richard Cobb and Paul Williams with conspiracy to distribute Methamphetamine. Taylor, Larry Broadnax, Rodriccos Broadnax, Rodney Broadnax and Shannon are alleged to have distributed 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine. Washington,
Weaver, Cobb and Williams are alleged to have distributed 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine.
Count 2 charges Larry Broadnax, Artelious Ingram, Rodriccos Broadnax, Rodney Broadnax, Jerome Taylor, Brandon Davison, Shalandria Jackson and two others with conspiracy to distribute Marijuana. The indictment states that Larry Broadnax was responsible for distributing more than 1,000 kilograms of Marijuana.
Count 3 charges Larry Broadnax and another individual with conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of Cocaine.
Count 4 charges Larry Broadnax, Rodriccos Broadnax, Brandon Davison, Robert Cobb and another individual with conspiracy to distribute Oxycodone.
Count 5 charges Larry Broadnax, Rodney Broadnax and Jerome Taylor with conspiracy to distribute Hydrocodone.
Count 6 charges Larry Broadnax, Jerome Taylor, Rodriccos Broadnax, Angela Weaver and Brandon Davison with conspiracy to distribute Alprazolam (Xanax).
Count 7 charges Larry Broadnax, Arteleious Ingram and another individual with conspiracy to commit money laundering.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Multi-Agency Gang Unit. The Safe Streets Task Force is comprised of agents and officers from the FBI’s Memphis Division, the Memphis Police Department, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, the Bartlett Police Department, the Germantown Police Department and the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department. During the investigation, members of the Task Force also worked closely with the Memphis Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark Erskine is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Media AdvisoryRead the Press Release
WHAT: Acting United States Attorney Lawrence J. Laurenzi; and Steve Gerido, ATF Special Agent in Charge will make an announcement regarding the Department of Justice’s investigation into an armed drug trafficking organization. DATE: Tuesday, March 21, 2017 TIME: 1:45 p.m. WHERE:United States Attorney’s Office – Main Conference Room
NOTE:
Clifford Davis Odell Horton Federal Building
167 North Main Street, Suite 800
Memphis, TN 38103All media members must present government-issued photo I.D.
(such as driver’s license), as well as valid media credentials.Media are requested to RSVP to [email protected]. The conference room will be available for media to set up at 1:15 p.m. everything must be pre-set by 1:30 p.m. Press inquiries regarding logistics should be directed to Cherri Green at 901-969-2948.
Members of the Gangster Disciples Have Pleaded Guilty to Violent CrimesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Seven members of the Gangster Disciples have pleaded guilty to committing violent crimes in aid of racketeering activity. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty pleas today.
According to information presented in court, the Gangster Disciples are a violent criminal gang which began in the Chicago, Illinois area. In the 1970’s, the leaders of two different Chicago-based gangs, the Black Disciples and the Supreme Gangsters, aligned their respective groups and created the Gangster Disciples.
Once united, the Gangster Disciples began recruiting heavily in Chicago, within Illinois jails and prisons, and throughout the United States. By the mid-1980’s, the group had spread throughout the Midwestern and Eastern United States. The Gangster Disciples are active in approximately 35 states including Tennessee.
The purpose of the enterprise includes preserving and protecting the power of the enterprise through the use of threats, intimidation, and acts of violence including murder.
On June 21, 2014, Florence Anthony ("Anthony"), a member of the Gangster Disciples, got into an altercation with a group of individuals at the Hillview Apartments located in Memphis, Tennessee. Anthony reported the confrontation to her Gangster Disciples chain-of-command. As a result, Anthony, along with fellow gang member Brandon Milton ("Milton"), returned to the Hillview Apartments to retaliate. Milton fired at least three shots at a group of individuals standing outside the apartments. Because no one was struck, the security team for the Gangster Disciples were called in to discuss further retaliation.
At approximately 10:30 p.m. on that same day, Edwin Carvin ("Carvin"), Robert Mallory ("Mallory"), Tony Coburn ("Coburn"), Erik Reese ("Reese"), and Ranito Allen ("Allen"), all members of the Gangster Disciples, went back to the Hillview Apartments to retaliate against what were identified as rival gang members. Carvin, Mallory, Coburn, Reese and Allen were each armed with firearms and proceeded on foot through the apartments shooting four juveniles and one adult male. All five victims survived, but some sustained serious bodily injuries.
All seven members of the Ganger Disciples were indicted by a federal grand jury on a number of charges including violent crimes in aid of racketeering activity in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1959 and possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence in violation of 18 U.S.C. §924 (c). Today, the final defendant (Reese) pleaded guilty. Coburn is scheduled for sentencing on Thursday, March 23, 2017 at 3:30 p.m.; Mallory is set for sentencing on Friday, March 24, 2017 at 10:00 a.m.; Carvin is set for sentencing on Friday, March 24, 2017 at 1:30 p.m.; Anthony is scheduled for sentencing on Thursday, June 1, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.; Milton is scheduled for sentencing on Thursday, June 1, 2017 at 1:30 p.m.; Allen is scheduled for sentencing on Friday, June 2, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.; and Reese is scheduled for sentencing on Thursday, June 22, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. before United States District Court Judge Samuel H. Mays.
Each faces up to life in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Multi-Agency Gang Unit, Police Departments for Memphis, Bartlett and Germantown; Sheriff’s Offices for Tipton, Desoto and Shelby; and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab.
Assistant United States Attorney Jerry Kitchen, Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Kimbril-Parks, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Sam Stringfellow are prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
Memphis Man Convicted of Felony Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A jury has convicted a Memphis man of illegally possessing a firearm. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the conviction today.
According to information presented at trial, on December 25, 2015, officers with the Memphis Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance call at 779 Laurel. The defendant Jeremy Brown fired four rounds into the home with a stolen SCCY 9mm pistol, barely missing his girlfriend and her great-aunt, who were both inside. In an attempt to break into the home, Brown used the firearm to break the glass to the side door. This activated the home’s security system, alarming the defendant and causing him to drop the gun between the locked storm and wooden doors and flee the scene.
The defendant’s girlfriend reported the SCCY 9mm pistol stolen in 2014 by Brown. The loaded firearm was later recovered on the property by law enforcement.
According to the affidavit of complaint, Jeremy Brown was not on the scene when officers responded. However, he sent a text message to the victim once the police left the scene, which prompted her to call 911 and ask that law enforcement return. Three days later, on December 28, 2015, Brown turned himself in on the arrest warrant.
For the one count, the maximum penalty is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for June 22, 2017, before the Honorable U.S. Senior District Judge Samuel H. Mays, Jr.
The case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen Hartridge and Marques Young prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Memphis Man Convicted of Felony Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A jury has convicted a Memphis man of possessing a firearm while a convicted felon and possessing a firearm while on school property. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the conviction today.
According to information presented at trial, on October 3o, 2014, officers with the Memphis Police Department responded to a report of an armed suspect at Ross Elementary School, 4890 Ross Road. Upon arrival, officers saw Charles Tigner of Memphis, Tennessee, who was combative and engaged officers in a fight resulting in the deployment of a chemical agent.
Officers pursued Tigner from the halls of Ross Elementary School to 6946 Boothbay, where he was apprehended. A Ruger 9 mm was recovered on school property near the area of the original struggle.
According to the affidavit of complaint, the suspect had an outstanding warrant for domestic violence charges.
For the two counts, the maximum penalty is 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for May 4, 2017, before the Honorable U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr.
The case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dean DeCandia and Bayonle Osundare prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Crockett County Deputy Indicted in West Tennessee on Federal Drug Trafficking ViolationsRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – A former Crockett County Sheriff’s Deputy has been indicted on federal drug and gun charges. Edward L. Stanton III, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, and Michael T. Gavin, Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis Division of the FBI, announced today the unsealing of an indictment charging Calvin Fields with federal drug trafficking and gun violations.
"Individuals who engage in criminal conduct and violate the public’s trust, including those who take an oath to protect and serve our community, will be held accountable for their actions," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "No one is above the law."
According to the indictment, on February 13, 2017, Calvin Fields aided and abetted others in the distribution of a mixture of substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. Mr. Fields was in possession of a Glock .40 caliber pistol in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime.
Federal agents arranged surveillance and saw Calvin Fields stationed in his patrol vehicle while on duty, providing security while cocaine was being delivered by an undercover cooperating source.
The suspect was arrested last Friday, February 17, 2017, on a federal complaint. The federal grand jury in Jackson returned the indictment on February 21, 2017.
"No one is above the law, especially those who have sworn an oath to uphold the law," said Michael T. Gavin, Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. "Public corruption is the number one criminal priority of the FBI and we will continue to work with our partners to bring to justice those who would seek to line their own pockets and in doing so jeopardize the safety of the public."
Charges in the indictment stem from the illegal activity of distributing powder cocaine and possession of a firearm during the commission of a drug-trafficking crime.
For the two counts, the penalty is not less than five years in prison and up to life imprisonment, a $1,250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by members of the FBI Memphis Division’s Jackson Resident Agency, the Crockett County Sheriff’s Office and the 28th Judicial District Violent Crime and Drug Task Force. This investigation is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matt Wilson on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Jury Convicts Man for Robbing Multiple BusinessesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Memphis man has been convicted on seven counts of armed robbery affecting interstate commerce. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the verdict today.
According to information presented in court, during the month of January 2016, Eugene Cox, 23, and Squantivia S. Patterson, 23, both of Memphis; and Terry Farris, 38, of Millington, participated in multiple armed robberies of seven Memphis businesses: Shoney’s, Family Dollar, Krystal’s, Circle K, Church’s, Subway and Beauty and Beyond.
The guilty verdict followed a jury trial before the Honorable Sheryl Lipman, U.S. District Judge. Evidence at trial showed Terry Farris, along with Eugene Cox and Squantivia Patterson committed two robberies together.
On January 13, 2016, the trio robbed the Shoney’s at 308 Covington Pike. Later that evening, the men robbed Circle K at 6133 Macon. Cox and Patterson were captured on surveillance video inside the Circle K, while Farris remained outside of the business and served as the lookout. After the robbery of Circle K, the men parted ways.
On January 14, 2016, Farris robbed Family Dollar at 2711 Getwell and Krystal’s at 3675 Lamar. On January 16, 2016, he robbed Church’s at 925 Poplar. That same day, Cox and Patterson robbed Subway at 2938 Covington Pike. While committed on the same day, the robberies were unrelated. Cox and Patterson committed their last robbery on January 23, 2016, at the Beauty and Beyond beauty supply, 9024 Covington Pike.
As a result of the Memphis Police Department’s investigation, latent prints lifted from the crime scene at Family Dollar were determined to be the same inked impressions belonging to Farris. The investigation also yielded surveillance video from Family Dollar, Krystal’s and Church’s along with victims’ identification of Farris from photo line-ups.
For the seven counts, the penalty is a mandatory minimum of 35 years and up to life in prison. Sentencing is set for May 26, 2017, at 9:00 a.m.
The case was investigated by detectives from the Memphis Police Department’s Safe Streets Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen Hartridge and Kevin Whitmore prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Memphis Man Pleads Guilty to Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Memphis man has pleaded guilty to armed robbery. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
According to information presented in court, on August 18, 2016, officers with the Memphis Police Department, responded to a robbery of a Dunbar Armored courier at 2424 Summer Avenue. James Edward Lacey, Jr. pepper-sprayed and robbed the Dunbar Armored courier, taking $118,942. The courier was in the process of placing the United States currency into the truck, when Lacey approached and pepper-sprayed him.
The driver of the Dunbar Armored truck, saw the unknown subject taking the currency and fired one shot, hitting the subject on the right side of his body. After being shot, Lacey fled on foot with the Dunbar courier bag containing the money, and got into the passenger side of a black Jeep Liberty, and fled the area. Blood found at the scene and a DNA analysis by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations (TBI) revealed Lacey’s blood.
On August 24, 2016, a Memphis Crime Stoppers tip, was received with specific information and details alleging the crime was committed by Lacey
Prior to the robbery, on August 13, 2016, Lacey was arrested for being a felon in possession of a Kel-Tec 9mm pistol. His criminal history dates back to 2008.
For the two counts, Lacey faces up to 30 year’s in prison and a $500,000 fine. Sentencing is set for May 12, 2017, before the Honorable U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Safe Street Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Whitmore is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
U.S. Attorney Stanton Announces Upcoming ResignationRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, has announced his resignation, effective February 28, 2017. U.S. Attorney Stanton has served in office since August 2010.
"Nearly six and a half years ago I was provided the professional honor of a lifetime," U.S. Attorney Stanton said. "To be able to serve the district where I was born, raised and educated, and for which I have tremendous love and respect, was a remarkable experience. I am tremendously grateful to President Obama, Senators Lamar Alexander and Bob Corker and Congressman Steve Cohen for placing their trust in me. I am confident the extraordinary professionals of the U.S. Attorney’s Office will remain tirelessly devoted to the unwavering cause of justice on behalf of the citizens of West Tennessee and our great nation. I am proud of the work we have accomplished in and out of the courtroom, including building meaningful bonds of trust with the community we serve. As I step away from this esteemed post, I remain committed to being actively engaged in serving our great community."
When he assumed the role as U.S. Attorney in 2010, Mr. Stanton committed himself to protecting the nearly 1.5 million citizens that comprise West Tennessee through the vigorous enforcement of federal laws.
One of Mr. Stanton’s highlights during his tenure as U.S. Attorney was the creation of a dedicated Civil Rights Unit in 2011. The Unit, which has earned national acclaim, is responsible for prosecuting individuals who commit federal civil rights crimes, such as human trafficking, law enforcement corruption, excessive force, official misconduct, hate crimes, predatory lending, unfair housing, and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) violations.
Mr. Stanton has served on the Gulf Coast High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Board. The program was recently awarded the U.S. Attorney’s Office funding to implement a federal initiative that exclusively targets crimes involving heroin and prescription opioids. He is also a founding member of the Multi-Agency Gang Unit, which is comprised of federal, state and local law enforcement officials, with a common goal of combating criminal gang activity.
With a focus on prosecuting cases involving violent crime, human trafficking, child exploitation, hate crimes, health care fraud, identity theft, racketeering, drug trafficking, and unlawful firearm possession, prosecutorial highlights during Mr. Stanton’s tenure include:
• Chastain Montgomery, Sr., was sentenced to consecutive life sentences in federal prison for the murders of United States Postal Service employees Paula Robinson and Judy Spray during a robbery of the establishment. Mr. Stanton served as co-counsel on the trial team.
• Ricky Lee Stewart, III was sentenced to life in federal prison for fatally shooting Henderson Police Department Captain Dennis Cagle during an attempted robbery of a Henderson, Tennessee Save-A-Lot. Stewart’s wife, Cheryl Freeman Stewart, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for her role in the attempted robbery.
• Orlando Garcia was sentenced to life in federal prison for his role in the murder of Tennessee State Trooper Calvin Wayne Jenks, who was fatally shot while conducting a traffic stop in Tipton County.
• Dale Mardis was sentenced to life in federal prison for the racially-motivated killing of a Shelby County Code Enforcement Officer. Mr. Stanton served as co-counsel on the trial team.
• Craig Petties, a leader of one of the largest drug trafficking organizations in the Mid-South, was sentenced to nine life sentences in federal prison. More than 40 additional people were also prosecuted for their roles within this violent and lucrative criminal enterprise.
• Clarence Mumford, Sr., the ringleader of a two-decade-long teacher certification testing scam, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison. Thirteen other participants in the scheme were also prosecuted, and an additional 40 reached diversion agreements that resulted in the loss of their teaching licenses.
• Justin Shawn Baker was sentenced to federal prison for violating the civil rights of students and faculty of the Margolin Hebrew Academy. Baker defaced a Torah and religious prayer books, which the students and faculty used for a worship service conducted at the Doubletree Hotel in Jackson.
• Terrence Yarbrough, aka "T-Rex," was sentenced to more than 40 years in federal prison for sex trafficking at least 10 female victims, some underage teens. To coerce the victims into prostituting for him, he beat them with belts, wooden coat hangers, crowbars, padlocks attached to belts, and dog chains.
• Amos Patton, a former soldier, was sentenced to 50 years in federal prison for assault with intent to murder four soldiers at the Millington Army National Guard Recruiting Center.
• Terrence Milam was sentenced to 170 years in federal prison for producing child pornography and engaging in sexually explicit conduct with two prepubescent female minors between October 2013 and late January 2015.
• Christopher T. Crawford and Jordan West were sentenced to federal imprisonment for their roles in a lucrative shipping theft scheme that defrauded FedEx and wireless carriers of more than $1.8 million.
• Remark Chism was sentenced to federal prison for masterminding a federal benefit fraud scheme that cost the government approximately $2.8 million. His brother, Ray Chism III, was sentenced in a separate case for executing a federal benefit fraud scheme that defrauded the government of $400,000.
Between 2010 and 2016, the U.S. Attorney’s Office collected more than $50 million in civil and criminal actions.
During his tenure, Mr. Stanton also made it a priority to conduct outreach and strengthen relationships between law enforcement partners, citizens, and community groups.
For example, Mr. Stanton engaged the district’s clergy, civic, nonprofit and business communities through community forums, roundtable discussions and a myriad of speaking engagements; encouraged and equipped the district’s youth by visiting schools, community centers, and nonprofit organizations that cater to youth; and implemented programs that provide employment opportunities to non-violent ex-offenders determined to become productive members of society.
Mr. Stanton spearheaded the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s involvement in the U.S. District Court’s reentry and drug court program; appointed a Reentry and Prevention Coordinator; established an Employer Recruitment Program to help increase the number of companies who hire non-violent ex-offenders; and conducted quarterly visits to both the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) in Memphis and Satellite Prison Camp (SPC) in Millington to talk with inmates about transitional resources, supervised release, and the necessity to watch the company they keep.
In addition, Mr. Stanton chaired the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee’s Racial Disparities Working Group. Under his leadership, this group of U.S. Attorneys from across the country addressed implicit and unconscious bias, potential sentencing disparities, and requested enhanced training programs for law enforcement officials.
Mr. Stanton is responsible for fully staffing both the Memphis and Jackson divisions of the U.S. Attorney’s Office by hiring two-thirds of the Office’s current Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs), along with nearly half of the Office’s support staff. He also appointed the district’s first-ever Appellate Chiefs and created a dedicated Appellate Unit to promote and defend the government’s interests in the Courts of Appeals. He was able to accomplish these milestones while navigating his staff through several financial challenges, including a hiring freeze, government shutdown and budget sequestration.
Mr. Stanton, a native Memphian, is a graduate of Central High School, the University of Memphis and the University of Memphis Law School. Prior to serving as U.S. Attorney, Mr. Stanton served as Senior Counsel with Federal Express Corporation. He also served as an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Memphis and in private practice with two Memphis law firms.
15 Alleged Members of Drug Trafficking Organization IndictedRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – Fifteen alleged members of a drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing cocaine and marijuana throughout West Tennessee have been indicted on federal charges. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee; Michael T. Gavin, Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Steve Isbell, Chief of Police for the Dyersburg Police Department; and Christopher Wiser, Chief of Police for the Jackson Police Department, announced the indictment today.
"As the indictment alleges, these 15 individuals decided to traffic illicit narcotics throughout our district as a means to fatten their pockets," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "Law enforcement has no tolerance for the distribution of illegal drugs, and this indictment serves as a reminder that we will keep pursuing those suspected of poisoning our community."
On Tuesday, January 31st, 12 of the defendants were taken into custody by federal, state and local law enforcement officials. Three of the defendants were already incarcerated on unrelated charges.
The following defendants have been indicted for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, cocaine base and marijuana:
• Anthony Lamont Adams, 41, of Obion County
• James Williams Ayers, 51, of Shelby County (Already in Federal Custody)
• Joaquian Jonulle Bowen, 30, of Dyer County
• Edrik Deon Fason, 34, of Madison County (Already in Federal Custody)
• Derrick Shawen Fields, 36, of Dyer County
• L.C. Gills Jr., 48, of Dyer County
• Monteith Alvarez Haley, 37, of Dyer County
• Charlie Dwayan Hartshaw, 35, of Madison County
• Demonta Darnell Henning, 25, of Dyer County
• Paul Montrale Isom, 30, of Dyer County
• Joseph Deangelo Lee, 44, of Dyer County
• Billy Joe Liggon Jr., 40, of Madison County (Already in Federal Custody)
• Bobby Charles McElrath, 54, of Dyer County
• Kenneth Wayne Patrick, 38, of Dyer County
• Jermaine B. Temple, 38, of Madison CountyAccording to the indictment, between June and December 2016, the defendants conspired with each other to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute powder cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana. The defendants allegedly aided and abetted each other during the commission of the aforementioned crime.
During the course of its investigation, law enforcement officials seized illicit narcotics, drug paraphernalia, firearms, and drug proceeds. Additional firearms were recovered during Tuesday’s round-up.
"Gang-related drug activity tears at the fabric of our communities, as gang members peddle poison and innocent people are caught in the violence and related crimes that accompany the drug trade," said Gavin, Special Agent in Charge for the FBI’s Memphis Field Office. "Today's arrests demonstrate the commitment of the FBI and our law enforcement partners to root out those who seek to prey on the public, and to stamp out the organizations that ruin so many lives."
"I am very proud of the Street Crimes Unit, and appreciate their dedication and hard work removing dangerous individuals from our community," said Dyersburg Police Chief Isbell. "They worked many long hours and were aided by other members of the police department’s patrol and criminal investigation division. Officers on the Street Crimes Unit are also members of the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force. This partnership allows us to combine resources to make all of West Tennessee a safer place."
"We want the citizens of Jackson and West Tennessee to be confident in our departments’ commitment to relentlessly and aggressively pursuing criminals who engage in poisoning our community by pushing and selling drugs in West Tennessee," stated Jackson Police Chief Wiser. "Criminals do not stop at city limit signs and neither do we. The Jackson Police Department values our working relationship with our federal law enforcement partners which often bridge the gap between local jurisdictions. Because drugs are the root cause of so many of the crimes committed in our area, we are determined to focus our attention and resources on those with criminal intent to destroy our community. We appreciate the likeminded efforts of the FBI and the Dyersburg Police Department in this case and you can be assured that these types of enforcement actions will continue as long as needed to combat the drug problems in our streets."
All 15 defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison and fines of up to $1 million for both the conspiracy and aiding and abetting charges.
Isom is charged with an additional count of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute marijuana. He faces up to five years and a fine of up to $250,000 for the charge.
Haley is charged with three additional counts of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine. He faces up to 20 years and a fine of up to $1 million for each charge.
Fason is charged with an additional count of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a fine of up to $5 million.
Ayers is charged with felony possession of multiple firearms and ammunition. He faces up to 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000 for the charge.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Memphis Safe Streets Task Force. The Task Force is comprised of agents from the FBI Memphis Division’s Jackson Resident Agency, the Dyersburg Police Department, the Jackson Police Department, the Lexington Police Department, and the 24th Judicial District Drug Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Wilson is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Man Pleads Guilty to Coercing Female Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Memphis area man has pleaded to using the internet to coerce an underage teen into engaging in sexual intercourse. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
According to information presented in court, Matthew Marr, 23, used messaging apps to communicate with a 14-year-old female minor in July and August of 2016. The minor revealed that she was underage during one of their initial conversations. However, Marr assured the minor that her age was not an issue.Marr eventually met the minor in person to have sexual intercourse and, on at least one occasion, was armed with a knife. Additionally, Marr sent sexually explicit images to the minor. He also told the victim she had to send him sexually explicit videos and images of herself if she wanted to be in a relationship with him, and pressured her to introduce him to even younger girls.
On Thursday, January 26, 2017, Marr pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to one count of coercing and enticing a female minor to engage in sexual activity.
Marr is scheduled to be sentenced on April 27, 2017.
He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the FBI's Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force and the BPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Deb Ireland is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
Anyone who believes they may have information about related activities is asked to contact the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force at 901.747.4300.
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 Attorneys' 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab "resources."
California Man Sentenced to 37 Years for Attempted Bank Robbery, Discharging FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – A California man who shot a woman twice during an attempted bank robbery has been sentenced to more than three decades in federal prison. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
"Dominic Williams’ greed and reckless disregard for human life led him to shoot a law-abiding citizen and attempt to rob a federal bank," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "This stern sentence is a clear reminder that individuals who decide to commit violent acts in our community will face severe consequences."
According to information presented in court, Dominic Williams, 37, of Los Angeles, California, snuck into the carport of Pamela Janeice Frisbee on the morning of March 18, 2015. Frisbee, a manager of a BancorpSouth bank, was at her home in Humboldt, Tennessee, preparing to leave for her job. When she exited her house and walked to the carport to get into her car, Williams was hiding in front of the vehicle with a Glock .40 caliber pistol. He stood up and pointed the gun at Frisbee before asking her if "she wanted to die today?"
Williams forced Frisbee into the driver’s seat of her vehicle at gunpoint and demanded that she drive to BancorpSouth. Once at the bank, Williams forced her to open the doors — the establishment had not yet opened — and the two went inside. He had her disable an alarm, and demanded she obtain money from the tellers’ drawers. The victim responded there was no money in the drawers. Williams then demanded that she open vaults in the bank to obtain money. When the victim told him that she was unable to open the vaults, he fired multiple shots at her, striking her in the chest and arm. Frisbee subsequently fell to the ground and played dead. Williams then shot and kicked out the back windows of the bank and fled.
Independent witnesses and bank employees notified the Humboldt Police Department (HPD) of the incident. After arriving on the scene, HPD’s chief of police observed Williams stripping clothing off into a dumpster a block from the bank. The police chief was able to arrest him, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was notified.
After Frisbee was airlifted to a Memphis hospital, FBI investigators responded. Williams was advised of his Miranda rights which he agreed to waive. He provided a recorded statement, informing FBI agents of where he hid his firearm and admitted that he attempted to rob the BancorpSouth bank. FBI agents subsequently recovered the .40 caliber pistol used in the crime. And clothing consistent with witness descriptions of the robber was recovered, as well as a mask and a roll of duct tape.
Frisbee was able to testify in federal court that she was kidnapped, forced against her will, assaulted, and that a firearm was discharged inside the bank.
"This sentence should send a resounding message that violent crimes will not be tolerated, and that law enforcement will not rest until the offenders are caught, prosecuted and held accountable for their actions," said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jeremy N. Baker of the Memphis Field Office of the FBI. "I commend the Humboldt Police Department for their immediate response to identify and arrest this bank robber, and the professionalism and partnership of all involved throughout the investigation to bring him to justice."
Humboldt Police Chief Rob Ellis said: "I am grateful that our victim is doing well after such a horrendous act committed against her. I pray this gives her some closure and wish her all the best after what she has overcome. I also appreciate the help from the FBI, Gibson County Sheriff's Department, 28th Judicial Drug Task Force, Humboldt Fire Department, Gibson County EmergencyMedical Services, Humboldt Area Rescue Squad, and all others that assisted during the incident."
In August 2016, Williams pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge J. Daniel Breen to single counts of attempted bank robbery, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and felony possession of a firearm.
On Wednesday, January 25, 2017, Judge Breen sentenced Williams to 444 months in federal prison. He will also be required to pay $66,719 in restitution.
This case was investigated by the FBI; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); and the HPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Wilson prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
7 Alleged Members of Drug Trafficking Organization Charged in 16-Count IndictmentRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – Seven alleged members of a drug trafficking organization responsible for shipping large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin and Xanax across West Tennessee have been charged in a 16-count indictment. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.
On Thursday, January 19th, and Friday, January 20th, four of the defendants were taken into custody by federal, state and local law enforcement officials. Two of the defendants were already incarcerated on unrelated charges. One remains a fugitive.
The following defendants have been indicted for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of ice, among other charges:
• Bernard Cooper, 31, of Jackson, Tennessee
• Courtney Cooper, 37, of Jackson, Tennessee
• Robert Newsom, 34, of Jackson, Tennessee (fugitive)
• Brandon Weddle, 27, of Jackson, Tennessee
• Ronricus Chapman, 30, of Jackson, Tennessee
• Morgan Bond, 29, of Jackson, Tennessee
• Stephen Williams, 29, of Jackson, TennesseeAccording to the indictment, between August 2015 and May 2016, the defendants intentionally conspired with each other to unlawfully distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of ice — meth with a purity level greater than 80 percent. The defendants allegedly aided and abetted each other during the commission of the aforementioned crime.
During the course of a nearly two-year investigation of the criminal organization, law enforcement officers seized more than 550 kilograms of marijuana, 240 grams of ice, 220 grams of cocaine, 20 grams of heroin, and 1,000 Xanax pills.
During its round-up of the defendants, law enforcement seized an additional eight pounds of marijuana, as well as small amounts of heroin, cocaine and Xanax. Two loaded pistols and five vehicles were also seized.
Additional charges listed in the indictment:
• Bernard Cooper, Newsome, Weddle, Chapman and Bond are also charged with additional counts of conspiring with each other to unlawfully distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, more than 100 kilograms of marijuana, and more than 50 grams of ice. They also aided and abetted each other to distribute, attempt to distribute, possess with the intent to distribute and attempt to possess with the intent to distribute the aforementioned substances.
• Bernard Cooper and Newsome are charged with an additional count of intentionally distributing, attempting to distribute, possessing with the intent to distribute and attempting to possess with the intent to distribute more than five grams of ice.
• Bernard Cooper and Courtney Cooper are charged with an additional count of intentionally distributing, attempting to distribute, possessing with the intent to distribute and attempting to possess with the intent to distribute meth.
• Bernard Cooper is also charged with unlawfully possessing a .223 caliber rifle; and intentionally distributing, attempting to distribute, possessing with the intent to distribute and attempting to possess with the intent to distribute heroin.
• Williams is also charged with unlawfully possessing a 12-gauge shotgun, which had been previously shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
• Courtney Cooper has also been charged with intentionally distributing, attempting to distribute, possessing with the intent to distribute and attempting to possess with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of ice.
All seven defendants face mandatory minimum sentences of 10 years in federal prison and fines of up to $10 million for both the conspiracy and aiding and abetting charges.
Penalties for the additional charges listed in the indictment range from five to 20 years in federal prison and carry fines of up to $10 million.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and the Jackson-Madison County Metro Narcotics Unit.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Boswell is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Selmer Police Department Lieutenant Sentenced for Accessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – A former Selmer Police Department lieutenant has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for accessing child pornography on a hidden website. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, Tony O. Miller, 36, of Finger, Tennessee, was a member of a website dedicated to sharing child pornography. Miller used special technology to access it regularly between early January and March 2015. The website could not be found using traditional search engines, like Google or Bing; members had to use special technology designed to conceal their identity in order to access it. Images of minor children engaging in sexual activity with adults were featured on the website. Some of the minors were under 12 years of age.
An undercover investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified users of a website set up for the purposes of sharing child pornography. Visitors to the website could view, download, and comment on other users' material, as well as upload their own. Miller was identified as one of the website’s users.
At the time of the aforementioned conduct, Miller was a lieutenant with the Selmer Police Department and studying to become a lawyer.
Miller admitted that he used the Internet and work-issued digital devices to access the website and view child pornography. He also admitted to using technology to try to hide his criminal activity.
In September 2016, Miller pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge J. Daniel Breen to one count of accessing with intent to view child pornography.
On Thursday, January 05, 2017, the Court heard testimony that Miller destroyed evidence during law enforcement’s investigation into the case. Judge Breen subsequently sentenced Miller to 30 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI, with assistance from the FBI Major Case Coordination Unit in Linthicum, Maryland, and the Selmer Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Ireland prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Anyone who believes they may have information about related activities is asked to contact the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force at 901.747.4300.
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 Attorneys' 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab "resources."
Memphis Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years for Sex Trafficking MinorRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A man who trafficked a female minor for sex has been sentenced to 151 months in federal prison. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, Harold Davis, 28, of Memphis, Tennessee, trafficked a female minor runaway between May and June 2014. Davis met the minor on the street and took her to his house. After purchasing a cellphone and wig for the teen, Davis posted an image of her on Backpage.com to advertise her for commercial sexual encounters.
The defendant’s criminal activity was discovered when a Shelby County Sheriff’s Deputy stopped Davis’ vehicle for a traffic violation. Upon approaching the vehicle, the deputy noticed a female minor in Davis’ backseat. The deputy also observed an unusually large amount of condoms and female hygiene products. The minor was identified and placed into foster care. However, within days, Davis communicated with the minor via Facebook, provided her with his contact information and helped her run away from her foster home.
During an investigation into the matter, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Human Trafficking Task Force was able to link the Backpage.com ads to Davis through his phone number and email accounts.
In April 2016, a federal jury convicted Davis on one count of sex trafficking a minor and one count of using the internet to conduct an unlawful activity.
On Thursday, December 29, 2016, U.S. District Judge Samuel H. Mays Jr. sentenced Davis to 151 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI and Shelby County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Debra Ireland and Kasey Weiland prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Gangster Disciple Pleads Guilty to RICO ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – The first of 16 alleged Gangster Disciples indicted on racketeering charges in May 2016 has pleaded guilty to RICO conspiracy. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
According to information presented in court, Daniel Lee Cole aka "D-Money," 37, of Jackson, Tennessee, reportedly ordered acts of violence against subordinate gang members and rival gang members; issued operational directives and organizational decisions; and engaged in narcotics trafficking in furtherance of the Gangster Disciples enterprise.
The Gangster Disciples are a highly-organized street gang that operates in more than 35 states and is responsible for violent acts and large-scale drug and firearm distribution.
The Gangster Disciples are organized into different positions, including board members, and governor-of-governors who each control geographic regions; governors, assistant governors, chief enforcers and chief of security for each state or regions within the state where the Gangster Disciples are active; and coordinators and leaders within each local group.
During his plea agreement, Cole admitted that he was a past governor of the 731 region (Jackson, Tennessee) and was also Literature Coordinator. Cole also admitted that the Gangster Disciples purchased heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine from contacts in various states and transported the drugs into Tennessee. These drugs were regularly sold to associates in Memphis, Jackson and other areas of the state.
Cole is one of 16 Gangster Disciples in the Memphis and Jackson areas who were indicted in May 2016 for allegedly conspiring to participate in a racketeering enterprise.
On Wednesday, December 21, 2016, Cole pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to one count of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise.
Cole is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Fowlkes on March 23, 2017.
He faces up to life in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI); the Jackson Police Department – Gang Enforcement Team; Police Departments for Memphis, Bartlett, Germantown and Columbia; Sheriff's Offices for Tipton, Desoto, Madison, and Fayette Counties; 28th District West Tennessee Drug Task Force; and 26th, 25th and 30th Judicial District Attorney's General's Offices.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jerry Kitchen, Beth Boswell, Michelle Parks and Samuel Stringfellow are prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
Alleged Gangster Disciple Pleads Guilty to Felony Possession of Firearm Linked to Gang-Related ShootingsRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – An alleged member of the Gangster Disciples has pleaded guilty to felony possession of a firearm that is linked to two gang-related shootings. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
According to information presented in court, on July 13, 2015, Jackson Police Department officers responded to a domestic disturbance call at an apartment in Madison County. Once law enforcement arrived, they observed Brandon Tavarious Purdy, 27, of Jackson, Tennessee, standing inside the apartment. Officers also noticed a .40 caliber handgun lying on the kitchen counter next to Purdy.
After Purdy was apprehended, an analysis was conducted on the firearm at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) lab. It was determined that the weapon was a match to casings collected at the scenes of two shootings involving the Gangster Disciples.
Purdy is reportedly a member of the Gangster Disciples, a highly-organized street gang that operates in more than 35 states and is responsible for violent acts and large-scale drug and firearm distribution.
Purdy has an extensive criminal history, including convictions for attempted second degree murder, attempted especially aggravated robbery, aggravated robbery and reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon.
On Thursday, December 22, 2016, Purdy pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge J. Daniel Breen to one count of felony possession of a firearm.
Purdy is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Breen on March 24, 2017 at 10 a.m.
He faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and the Jackson Police Department – Gang Enforcement Team.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth C. Boswell is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Falsely Reporting Shooting Threat on MegabusRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Texas man has pleaded guilty to falsely reporting a shooting threat to delay the departure of a Megabus. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
According to information presented in court, Kirk Stuart, 35, of Austin, Texas, planned to travel from Memphis to Dallas via Megabus on February 7, 2015. After realizing that he was going to miss the bus’ departure, he strategized a scheme to hinder it from leaving Memphis.
Using a companion’s phone, Stuart called a Memphis 911 operator and falsely advised that he and his brother were at the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) North End bus terminal awaiting theMegabus’ departure. He informed the operator that his brother had a gun and was about to do "something for Allah, a Muslim thing for Allah," implying a shooting was about to take place on the bus.
Stuart provided a false description of his brother to the operator. The Memphis Police Department (MPD) was notified and officers were dispatched to the MATA terminal. On arrival, they discovered that a Megabus had recently left the terminal heading to Dallas. Officers determined the bus was traveling through Arkansas and advised Arkansas State Police (ASP). The Megabus was later located in Little Rock and searched by law enforcement. No one matching the description that Stuart provided to the 911 operator was found on the bus.
Through further investigation into the matter, law enforcement developed Stuart as a suspect of the false report. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents interviewed Stuart in Dallas. He admitted to placing the fake emergency call in an effort to delay the Megabus long enough for he and his girlfriend to make its Dallas departure.
On Tuesday, December 20, 2016, Stuart pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charmiane G. Claxton to one count of willfully and maliciously conveying false information.
Stuart is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman on Friday, March 24, 2017 at 10 a.m.
He faces up to five years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000 when sentenced.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hall is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
Ringleaders of Million-Dollar Shipping Theft Scheme SentencedRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Two men have been sentenced for their roles in a lucrative shipping theft scheme that defrauded FedEx and wireless carriers of more than $1.8 million. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentences today.
According to information presented in court, Christopher T. Crawford, 32, of Memphis; and Jordan West, 28, of New York City; orchestrated a conspiracy to commit interstate shipping theft of wireless mobile devices from both Verizon and AT&T throughout 2013 and 2014. The mobile devices were being shipped to New York City and throughout the country by FedEx.
Crawford was employed with FedEx during a portion of the scheme’s duration. He used fraudulent FedEx corporate shipping accounts to print labels, which were used to over-label boxes of wireless devices. These boxes were diverted to West and other known and unknown co-conspirators in New York City and other areas through interstate commerce. Each box of merchandise contained thousands of dollars worth of Verizon and/or AT&T wireless mobile devices. West and other co-conspirators sold the mobile devices to third parties.
As part of the fraud, West sent thousands in U.S. currency via FedEx to Crawford for a share of the profits. Additionally, in mid-2013, Crawford contacted a FedEx vendor call center in Tucson, Arizona to set up a fraudulent corporate shipping meter account via his wireless mobile telephone.
Both defendants knew the wireless devices were stolen when they engaged in acts to perpetrate the crime. Ultimately, the interstate shipping theft scheme defrauded FedEx of more than $1.8 million.
On Thursday, December 15, 2016, Judge Fowlkes sentenced Crawford to 33 months in federal prison.
On Friday, December 16th, Judge Fowlkes sentenced West to 18 months in federal prison.
In addition to their sentences, Crawford and West will collectively be required to pay $1,812,226.08 in restitution.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service, Federal Bureau of Investigations, and Memphis Cargo Theft Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Damon K. Griffin and Tony Arvin prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Fayette County Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years for Unlawfully Possessing Large Amount of MethRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Fayette County man has been sentenced to 151 months for unlawfully possessing a large amount of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it throughout West Tennessee. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, between 2014 and 2015, Jonathan Bufford, 43, of Somerville, Tennessee, was involved in a large-scale drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing large amounts of meth in the rural areas of West Tennessee.
Bufford purchased distribution amounts of meth regularly from a source of supply in the Memphis area. After transporting the drugs to Fayette County, Bufford would hire couriers to drive the meth to other rural counties, to provide to various individuals for distribution.
In April 2015, the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office received an anonymous complaint that Bufford was selling drugs out of his Somerville home. Investigators executed a search warrant on Bufford’s home and recovered 108 grams of meth, three scales and three cell phones.
In September 2016, Bufford pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Samuel H. Mays Jr. to one count of unlawfully possessing with the intent to distribute and to distribute multiple grams of meth.
On Thursday, December 15, 2016, Judge Mays sentenced Bufford to 151 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the 25th District Attorney General’s Office and Fayette County Sheriff’s Office.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Gangster Disciple Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – An armed career criminal andmember of the Gangster Disciples has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, Arthur Alford, aka "Snoop," 35, of Ripley, Tennessee, unlawfully possessed a firearm, ammunition and drugs during the summer of 2015.
In December 2014, special agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) began working with local law enforcement officials in Lauderdale County to prosecute crimes committed by a group of individuals who were identified as members of street gangs.
As part of the investigation, on July 16, 2015, the agents executed a narcotics search warrant at the home of Alford, who they identified as a member of the Gangster Disciples. During the search, officers found $2,114 in drug proceeds, multiple grams of synthetic marijuana, packaging material, receipts, scales, drug ledgers, a loaded 9mm and a box of ammunition.
Alford has multiple felony convictions and is categorized as an armed career criminal.
In July 2016, Alford pleaded guilty to one count of unlawfully possessing a firearm.
On Wednesday, November 16, 2016, U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Alford to 180 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the 25th Judicial Drug Task Force.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Stringfellow prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Former Correctional Officer, Two Others Indicted for Smuggling Oxycodone into Shelby County JailRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN –A Shelby County Correctional Officer and two other individuals have been indicted for their roles in a scheme to smuggle prescription opioids and other contraband inside the Shelby County Correctional Center. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee; Michael T. Gavin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Memphis Division; and Bill Gupton, Director of the Shelby County Division of Corrections, announced the indictments today.
"Committing criminal acts like those alleged threatens the reputation of the many correctional officers who perform their jobs with honor and integrity every day," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "This indictment should serve as a reminder that no one is excluded from criminal prosecution."
According to the indictments, Kevin Thomas, 38; Kalon Jennings, 29; and Aaron Travonta Wallace, 26; all of Memphis, Tennessee; attempted to smuggle oxycodone and other contraband into the Shelby County Correctional Center. The defendants’ criminal behavior was revealed during an undercover investigation law enforcement conducted between April 2015 and August 2016.
In addition to the smuggling of oxycodone, the investigation revealed that Jennings, a correctional officer, sold numerous inmates’ social security numbers in exchange for cash on two separate occasions.
"These indictments represent the successful cooperative efforts of the FBI and its partners to target those who would attempt to smuggle contraband into a Correctional Center and the corrupt Correctional Officers who assist them," said Gavin. "The FBI will continue to aggressively pursue those who choose to break the law, no matter where that may occur."
"Once we discovered the scheme, our staff immediately reported these actions to area law enforcement agencies," said Gupton. "This multi-agency investigation led to the arrests. It should send a clear message to our staff at the corrections center that the net is always out there. If policy violations or criminal actions occur, there will be swift consequences."
Thomas and Wallace are each being charged with one count of attempting to unlawfully possess with the intent to distribute and distribute oxycodone. If convicted, they face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million.
Jennings is being charged with two counts of attempting to unlawfully possess with the intent to distribute and distribute oxycodone. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million per count.
Jennings is also being charged with two counts of unlawfully possessing and using the social security numbers of numerous inmates during the commission of a felony violation. If convicted, he faces a mandatory sentence of two years in federal prison, which is consecutive to any other term of imprisonment. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Tarnished Badge Task Force and the Shelby County Correctional Center.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Whitmore is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
High-Ranking Gangster Disciple Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A high-ranking member of the Gangster Disciples has been sentenced to 210 months in federal prison for felony possession and distribution of cocaine. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, Kevin Coleman aka "Booger," 34, of Covington, Tennessee, holds the rank of chief enforcer for the Covington region of the Gangster Disciples. A violent criminal organization present in more than 30 states, the Gangster Disciples are organized into different positions, including board members and governor-of-governors who each control geographic regions; governors, assistant governors, chief enforcers, and chief of security for each state or regions within the state where the Gangster Disciples are active.
Beginning in July 2014, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) began investigating members of the Gangster Disciples in the Tipton County area. They later identified Coleman as the Chief Enforcer/Assistant Chief Enforcer for the Covington region.
As the Chief Enforcer, Coleman was tasked with administering punishment to members who violated gang rules. He also permitted other members to illegally possess firearms and commit violent actions when deemed necessary.
Because of his position of authority, Coleman was required to have a firearm at all times, or have another armed gang member accompany him. During the investigation, agents became aware of two instances in which Coleman ordered the physical punishment of two fellow gang members.
Law enforcement also discovered that Coleman regularly conspired with others to obtain cocaine from other high-level members of the Gangster Disciples for distribution.
On November 3, 2015, law enforcement officers conducted a knock-and-talk at Coleman’s residence. At the time, Coleman was on probation and, as part of his probation, agreed to a provision allowing law enforcement to search him or his residence without a warrant.
When Coleman came to the front door, law enforcement asked if he possessed anything illegal. He admitted to having cocaine on his kitchen table. A search was conducted on his residence and the cocaine was recovered. Agents also seized $1,100 in drug proceeds, a scale, and .45 caliber ammunition.
After waiving his Miranda rights, Coleman informed agents that he had been buying and selling cocaine since around 2011. He admitted to purchasing ounce quantities of cocaine once a week for distribution.
In June 2016, Coleman proceeded to trial. However, after the government presented their first witness, he pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Samuel H. Mays Jr. to one count of unlawfully possessing with the intent to distribute and distributing more than 500 grams of cocaine.
On Monday, November 14, Judge Mays sentenced Coleman to 210 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 25th Judicial District Attorney General’s Office, and the Tipton County Sheriffs Office.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Stringfellow prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Justice Department to Monitor Polls in Shelby County on Election DayRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – The Justice Department announced today that it will monitor the election on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, in Shelby County, Tennessee, to ensure compliance with the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting rights statutes. The Voting Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the election process on the basis of race, color or membership in a minority language group.
Department personnel will monitor polling place activities. A Civil Rights Division attorney will coordinate federal activities and maintain contact with local election officials.
To file complaints about discriminatory voting practices, including acts of harassment or intimidation, voters may call the Voting Section of the Civil Rights Division at 1-800-253-3931. In addition, individuals may also report such complaints by fax to 202-307-3961, by email to [email protected] and via complaint form on the Department’s website: www.justice.gov/crt/votercomplaint.
Visit www.usdoj.gov/crt/voting for more information about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting laws.
Collierville Man Convicted of Felony Possession of 8 FirearmsRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Collierville man has been convicted by a federal jury for unlawfully possessing eight firearms. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty verdict today.
According to information presented in court, Robert Bates, 38, of Collierville, Tennessee, unlawfully possessed eight firearms on July 9, 2015. The firearms included three pistols, four rifles and a shotgun.
Bates was the defendant in a civil action in 2015. The plaintiff obtained a judgment against Bates over unpaid attorney fees. Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) personnel, in addition to a collections attorney and a collections agent, visited Bates’ Collierville residence to execute on the civil money judgment. While at the residence, eight firearms were located in the master bedroom. Bates had previously been convicted of a felony in 2006.
On Wednesday, November 2, 2016, a federal jury convicted Bates of eight counts of felony possession of a firearm. Each count carries a penalty of up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Bates is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. on Friday, February 23, 2017.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Pritchard and Will Crow are prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
U.S. Attorney Stanton Announces Five New AppointmentsRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – U.S. Attorney Edward L. Stanton III has announced the promotion of five attorneys and support staff members to new positions within the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
"Each of these individuals has displayed an exceptional work ethic and unwavering dedication toward the U.S. Attorney’s Office and its mission," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "I am confident that the experience and diligence they bring to their new leadership positions will continue to make them assets to the office and community."
Among those promoted to new positions are:
• Assistant U.S. Attorney Carroll Andre
Mr. Andre has been promoted to deputy criminal chief. With three decades of experience as an AUSA, Mr. Andre is a veteran prosecutor who primarily handles white-collar cases. In his new role, Mr. Andre will assist the office’s criminal chief with overseeing the criminal division’s execution of day-to-day responsibilities. In the absence of the criminal chief and senior litigation counsel, he will also review pleadings and handle any criminal division inquiries.
• Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Boswell
Ms. Boswell has been promoted to chief of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Unit. Ms. Boswell has been with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for five years, primarily prosecuting firearm and drug cases. With respect to her new role, Ms. Boswell will oversee OCDETF and other narcotics-related cases throughout West Tennessee. She will also act as a liaison between the office and fellow federal, state and local law enforcement agencies involved in conducting drug investigations.
• Assistant U.S. Attorney Keenan Carter
Mr. Carter has been promoted to deputy civil chief. He came to the U.S. Attorney’s Office as a seasoned civil litigator, and served as a criminal prosecutor for the office’s Firearms Unit for three years. Mr. Carter returned to civil litigation when he transferred to the office’s Civil Division in 2015. As deputy civil chief, Mr. Carter will take on an additional role in overall case management, as well as new administrative duties within the civil division.
• Marian Peete
Ms. Peete, formerly the lead legal assistant for the Violent Crimes Unit, has been promoted to supervisory legal assistant. With respect to her new position, Ms. Peete will coordinate training and management for the legal staff. She will also maintain and build upon the professional relationship between support staff, attorneys, management and the federal court system.
• LaRita Bearden
Formerly the office’s supervisory legal assistant, Ms. Bearden has been promoted to victim witness specialist. Under this role, Bearden will provide a variety of notifications, case updates and assistance services to victims and witnesses of federal crimes who have suffered physical, financial, and/or emotional trauma. Her sympathetic manner is a plus to this position. The 10-year veteran will also help coordinate community outreach efforts with partnering agencies.
Justice Department Announces Election Day Program in Shelby CountyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – U.S. Attorney Edward L. Stanton III announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Reagan M. Taylor will lead the efforts of his office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2016, general elections. AUSA Taylor has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Western District of Tennessee, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
U.S. Attorney Stanton said, "Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted without it being stolen because of fraud. The Department of Justice will act promptly and aggressively to protect the integrity of the election process."
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on election day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting, may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice.
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 8, 2016, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, U.S. Attorney Stanton stated that AUSA Taylor will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. She can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (901) 544-4231.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (901) 747-4300.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington, DC by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to [email protected] or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.
"Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate," U.S. Attorney Stanton said. "It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available immediately to my Office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division."
Robbers of Brink's Truck, Armored Car and Circle K IndictedRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Two men have been indicted on federal charges for allegedly robbing a gas station and a Brink’s armored truck guard at gunpoint. A man who allegedly robbed an armored car guard has been charged in a separate indictment. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictments today.
According to the indictment, Cornelius Richmond, 48, and Roderick Herron, 50; both of Memphis, Tennessee; robbed a Circle K on North Germantown Parkway in Cordova on April 26, 2016.
Three days later, on April 29, 2016, Richmond and Herron robbed a Brink’s armored truck guard at gunpoint. At the time of the robbery, the victim was in the process of loading cash into the ATM machine at a Regions Bank on Austin Peay Highway.
Both defendants have been charged with two counts of robbery affecting interstate commerce, and one count of brandishing a weapon during a crime of violence. Richmond was also charged with one count of felony possession of a firearm.
Additionally, James Edward Lacey Jr., 31, of Memphis, Tennessee, has been indicted federally for his involvement in a separate robbery.
According to his indictment, Lacey unlawfully possessed a firearm on August 13, 2016.
Five days later, on August 18, 2016, Lacey robbed a Dunbar Armored Service guard. The guard was performing services at the Memphis, Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) office on Summer Avenue at the time of the robbery.
Lacey has been charged with one count of robbery affecting interstate commerce and one count of felony possession of a firearm.
If convicted, all three of the aforementioned defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison for their individual robbery counts. Richmond and Herron face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for the count of brandishing a weapon during a crime of violence. Lacey and Richmond also face up to 10 years for felony firearm possession. All charges carry individual fines of up to $250,000.
These cases are being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s West Tennessee Violent Crime Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Whitmore is prosecuting these cases on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Four Gangster Disciples Collectively Sentenced to More Than 30 Years for Robbing Convenience Store, Drug DealerRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Four members of the Gangster Disciples have been sentenced to more than 30 years for robbing a convenience store and a drug dealer. Two of the defendants were previously on the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s (TBI) "Top 10 Most Wanted" list. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentences today.
The defendants and their respective sentences:
• Joe Reed, aka "Four Times," 26, of Ripley, Tennessee, 120 months
• Antwone Crew, aka "Gator," 26, of Ripley, Tennessee, 109 months
• Andreas Wells, aka "Drizzy," 20, of Ripley, Tennessee, 106 months
• Sequna Copeland, aka "Cutthroat," 27, of Ripley, Tennessee, 27 months
According to the information presented in court, on the evening of December 10, 2014, Reed, Wells and Crew robbed the Ripley Express Convenience Store in Ripley, Tennessee. The three defendants entered the store masked and armed with firearms. One of them pointed a shotgun at the store clerk as he took money from the register.
A couple hours later, law enforcement officers were informed that several men wearing masks and carrying guns were outside of a trailer home in the Gates, Tennessee area, and that a robbery was about to take place.
Law enforcement arrived on the scene in time to observe the masked men run inside the trailer and a man run out of the back. Officers knocked on the door, and four people came outside. The officers asked if the individuals had seen anything suspicious. The individuals denied seeing anything, and also denied the officers entry into the residence.
Officers looked around the area and discovered some clothing near the home that matched clothing seen on the surveillance video from the Ripley Express robbery. Officers also looked around a Buick Century that neighbors saw the armed men exit before approaching the trailer. Officers saw a firearm sitting inside the car. The firearm and additional clothing seen in the Ripley Express robbery surveillance video were recovered. The vehicle was towed, and the officers eventually left the area.
Shortly after leaving, an anonymous tip came in notifying the police that they needed to return to the trailer because robbers were still inside the home.
Through witness interviews, search warrants, and GPS information, law enforcement identified the perpetrators. Crew and Wells were subsequently arrested.
Reed and Copeland avoided apprehension collectively for eight months and were placed on TBI’s "Most Wanted" list before being captured.
On July 30, 2015, Copeland, while under oath and testifying as a witness in a proceeding before Grand Jury, made a false statement to prevent the punishment of Reed and Crew.
Between March and June 2016, Reed, Wells and Crew all pleaded guilty to one count of knowingly conspiring with each other to take drugs and drug proceeds from a drug dealer, and one count of aiding and abetting each other while carrying a firearm during the robbery of a drug dealer.
In July 2016, Copeland pleaded guilty to one count of perjury.
The defendants were sentenced by U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. between June and October 2016.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), TBI and the Ripley Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Memphis Man Sentenced to 170 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A man who created child pornography and engaged in sexually explicit conduct with two prepubescent female minors has been sentenced to more than a century in federal prison. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, Terrence Milam, 37, of Memphis, Tennessee, produced photographs and videos of himself sexually abusing two female minors between October 2013 and late January 2015. He used a smartphone to record the videos and take the images.
The abuse of the two victims came to light when a Memphis Police Department (MPD) officer on routine patrol discovered Milam and one of the children parked in a deserted school parking lot. When the officer approached the vehicle, he saw Milam struggling to put on his pants. Law enforcement obtained search warrants to review the contents of two cell phones found in the vehicle. This led to discovery of sexually explicit images and the identification of a second victim.
Milam’s abuse of the two children began when one of the victims was approximately nine years old and the other was 11.
In July 2016, Milam entered an Alford plea before U.S. District Judge Samuel H. Mays to five counts of production of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.
On Friday, October 7, 2016, Judge Mays sentenced Milam to 170 years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force and the MPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Deb Ireland prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Man Charged in Conspiracy to Defraud Regions Bank, Other Financial Institutions Remains a FugitiveRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A man who allegedly executed a scheme that defrauded Regions Bank and other financial institutions of more than $200,000 has been indicted on federal charges. He is considered a fugitive at this time. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.
According to the indictment, Ocho Edi Monso, 52, of Memphis, Tennessee, conspired with Dasse Romain Yobo and others to execute a scheme to defraud Regions Bank and other financial institutions between July 2013 and January 2014.
The conspirators unlawfully obtained money and customer account information from Regions and other financial institutions. The conspirators used the information to call and/or fax the financial institution where the customer maintained their account and falsely represented that they were the customer. Funds were subsequently transferred from the customer’s account to accounts controlled by the conspirators.
As part of the scheme, the conspirators also deposited altered or counterfeit checks to accounts they opened at financial institutions. They then withdrew or transferred funds from the account of deposit to accounts they controlled at other financial institutions.
For example, in December 2013, Monso provided Yobo with fraudulent information to open an account at Regions Bank under the name KEM Construction. That same month, a check payable in the amount of $130,949.96 with an altered payee name was deposited to the account.
In January 2014, the conspirators requested that $77,023.83 be wire-transferred from the KEM Construction account to an account styled "Peniel Energy" in Lawrenceville, GA.
In July 2016, Monso also possessed at least 15 counterfeit and unauthorized access devices and device-making equipment with intent to defraud.
The indictment against Monso was returned under seal last month. The U.S. Attorney's Office filed a motion to unseal the indictment earlier this week due to the belief that Monso is aware that law enforcement officers are looking for him. Thus far, Monso has avoided apprehension.
Monso is being charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud; one count of possession of 15 or more counterfeit access devices with intent to defraud; and one count of possession of device-making equipment with intent to defraud.
The bank fraud charge carries a penalty of up to 30 years and a fine of up to $1 million. The possession of counterfeit access devices charge carries a penalty of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000. And the possession of device-making equipment charge carries a penalty of up to 15 years and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carroll Andre is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
Monso is also facing charges in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A bench warrant was issued for his arrest after he failed to attend a scheduled court appearance in Baton Rouge on October 4, 2016.
Anyone with information about Monso's whereabouts is asked to contact Sgt. Brad Less with the U.S. Secret Service Economic Crimes Task Force at (901) 544-0333, or U.S. Postal Inspector Kyle W. Parker at (901) 746-1024.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
West Tennessee Man Indicted for Distributing Heroin Responsible for Fatal OverdoseRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A man allegedly responsible for distributing a large amount of heroin that resulted in the fatal overdose of at least one person has been indicted. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.
According to the indictment, Marvin Foster, aka "Pookie," 49, of Halls, Tennessee, distributed more than 100 grams of heroin throughout the counties of Lauderdale, Tipton, and Dyer between January 2013 and January 2015. The heroin distributed by Foster is responsible for the death of at least one person.
On Thursday, September 29, 2016, Foster was indicted on one count of possession with the intent to distribute and to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, which resulted in the death of a person.
Foster is scheduled to make his initial appearance in federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Tu M. Pham on Monday, October 24, 2016.
If convicted, Foster faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $10 million.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the 25th Judicial Drug Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Announces More Than $800,000 in DOJ Grants to TBI and MPDRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced today that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) and the Memphis Police Department (MPD) have both received Department of Justice (DOJ) grants that collectively amount to more than $800,000.
The TBI is one of eight agencies nationwide selected to receive funding from the DOJ’s Community Oriented Policing Services’ (COPS) Anti-Methamphetamine Program. Under the program, the TBI received $446,802 to investigate illicit activities related to the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine.
Additionally, the MPD is among multiple law enforcement agencies selected to receive funding from the DOJ’s Office of Justice Programs. The MPD has been awarded $401,193 as part of the Department’s Technology Innovation for Public Safety (TIPS) Program. The TIPS funding will enable the MPD to reduce violent crime, enhance mobile operation and increase community participation in its crime-reduction efforts. The proposed intervention will expand information sharing and analysis through license-plate recognition, and also expand MPD Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) assistance.
"The DOJ funding allotted to both the TBI and MPD will enable them to further their unwavering efforts in crime and drug prevention," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "Totaling more than $800,000 collectively, these grants underscore the DOJ’s commitment to keeping our citizens and communities safe."
Federal Officials Close Review into the Death of Darrius StewartRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – The Justice Department has announced that the independent federal review into the fatal shooting of Darrius Stewart on July 17, 2015, in Memphis, Tennessee, found insufficient evidence to support federal criminal civil rights charges against Memphis Police Department (MPD) Officer Connor Schilling.
Officials from the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Western District of Tennessee met today with Stewart’s family and their representatives to inform them of this decision.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee, the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a comprehensive independent review of the circumstances related to Stewart’s death. This included a review of witness statements, video footage, and other information obtained during the 2015 investigation conducted by the MPD and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). Additionally, federal investigators consulted with the Shelby County Medical Examiner and a TBI forensic scientist.
In conducting the review, federal authorities were tasked with determining whether Schilling violated federal law by willfully using unreasonable force against Stewart. Under the applicable federal criminal civil rights statute, Title 18, United States Code, Section 242, prosecutors must establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, that a law enforcement officer willfully deprived an individual of a constitutional right. To establish willfulness, federal authorities must show that the officer acted with the deliberate and specific intent to do something the law forbids. This is the highest standard imposed by law. Mistake, misperception, negligence, or poor judgment is not sufficient to establish a federal civil rights violation.
In this case, civilian witnesses saw a physical confrontation between Schilling and Stewart. It is uncontroverted that Schilling and Stewart engaged in a violent struggle for several minutes before Schilling shot Stewart. Video evidence shows that at one point Stewart was able to get on top of Schilling. Based on these eyewitness accounts, the statement of the officer involved, the video, and the physical evidence, there is insufficient evidence to disprove Schilling’s assertion that he needed to use deadly force against Stewart.
Federal authorities further determined that there is insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Schilling’s second shot was unreasonable. Much of the evidence tends to show that the second shot followed only a few seconds after the first. Since eyewitness accounts and physical evidence both indicate that the second shot came very soon after Stewart stood up in close proximity to Schilling, the evidence cannot establish that the threat initially posed by Stewart had abated at the time of the second shot. Under the law, the use of deadly force is justified when an officer has reasonable cause to believe that a suspect poses a threat of serious physical harm, either to the officer or to others. In this particular matter, the evidence does not disprove Schilling's account that he used no more force than he reasonably believed necessary to protect himself and to stop a perceived threat.
Based on a careful and thorough review, federal investigators determined that there is insufficient evidence to establish beyond a reasonable doubt that Schilling violated Section 242. Accordingly, the federal review of this incident has been closed without prosecution. This decision is limited strictly to an application of the high legal standard required to prosecute the case under the federal civil rights statute; it does not reflect an assessment of any other aspect of the incident.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee, along with its law enforcement partners, remains committed to investigating allegations of excessive force and will continue to devote the resources required to ensure that all serious allegations of civil rights violations are thoroughly examined. The Justice Department will aggressively prosecute criminal civil rights violations whenever there is sufficient evidence to do so.
Final Defendant in FedEx Shipping Theft Scheme Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – The fifth and final defendant in an interstate shipping theft scheme that defrauded FedEx and wireless carriers of more than $500,000 has pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
According to information presented in court, Christopher T. Crawford, 31, of Memphis, Tennessee, is a former FedEx material handler. In 2013, he established a fraudulent FedEx corporate shipping meter account when he called FedEx via a stolen telephone and provided false information to a customer services representative in Arizona to access and utilize a corporate account. Shipping labels were created from the shipping meter account Crawford established.
The account was used by Crawford and known and unknown co-conspirators during their scheme. These individuals used fraudulent FedEx corporate shipping labels to over-label boxes of wireless devices. The boxes were diverted to other known and unknown co-conspirators in New York City and other locations through interstate commerce. Each box of merchandise contained thousands of dollars worth of Verizon and/or AT&T wireless mobile telephones.
Ultimately, this scheme defrauded FedEx and the wireless carriers of between $550,000 and $1.5 million.
In March and July of 2016, Crawford’s co-defendants Akeem Gowdy, 23; and Tavaris Mickens, 23; both of Memphis, Tennessee; Jordan West, 27; and Juan Royal, 24; both of New York City, New York; pleaded guilty to conspiracy and interstate shipping theft charges respectively.
On Monday, September 26, 2016, Crawford pleaded guilty beforeU.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to one count of wire fraud.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on December 15, 2016. Crawford faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case is being investigated by the United States Secret Service, Federal Bureau of Investigations, and Memphis Cargo Theft Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Damon K. Griffin and Tony Arvin are prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
Real Estate Investor Charged in 14-Count Indictment Alleging Bank and Mail Fraud, Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A real estate investor has been charged in a 14-count indictment that alleges he defrauded three banks and a mortgage lending business. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.
According to the indictment, Thomas L. Boyd, 43, of Memphis, Tennessee, owned a real estate agency, Wonderful Properties, LLC. Between April 2006 and September 2014, Boyd, aided and abetted by others, allegedly engaged in a scheme to defraud Regions Bank, Bank of America, First Tennessee Bank, and Oak Tree Funding.
Boyd allegedly made false statements in connection with mortgage loan applications for persons who were financing the purchase of properties from his company. In many instances, the defendant failed to disclose to lenders on HUD-1 settlement sheets that he was paying a portion of the loan proceeds to the borrowers.
Boyd's alleged scheme caused the lenders to disburse approximately $653,000 in loan proceeds.
On Thursday, September 22, Boyd was arrested and had his initial appearance in federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Tu M. Pham.
Boyd is being charged with eight counts of bank fraud, two counts of mail fraud, and four counts of money laundering. Each count of bank fraud carries a penalty of up to 30 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million; each count of mail fraud carries a penalty of up to 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000; and each count of money laundering carries a penalty of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Federal Housing Finance Agency - Office of Inspector General; Department of Housing and Urban Development - Office of Inspector General; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and IRS-Criminal Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carroll L. Andre III is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Leader of Multimillion-Dollar Cocaine Trafficking Ring, Co-Conspirators Collectively Sentenced to More Than 120 YearsRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – The ringleader of a multimillion-dollar cocaine trafficking ring has been sentenced to federal prison. Twenty co-conspirators were previously sentenced for their roles in the criminal enterprise; one remains a fugitive. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentences today.
The defendants and their respective sentences:
• Derrick Hester, 43, of Memphis, TN: 114 months
• Marcus Brown, 38, of Somerville, TN: Time served
• David Arnold, 34, of Horn Lake, MI: 135 months
• Torey Jackson, 48, of Memphis, TN: 2 years supervised release
• Julius Anthony Weaver, 32, of Memphis, TN: 70 months
• Brian Wallace Stewart, 36, of Memphis, TN: 41 months
• Ahmad Omar Majid, 42, of Atoka, TN: 30 months
• Joseph Bernard Taylor, 40, of Memphis, TN: 51 months
• Marco Dewayne Reed, 37, of Memphis, TN: 37 months
• Toramine Lavorid McKinnie, 35, of Brownsville, TN: 63 months
• William Norman Bass III, 29, of Bartlett, TN: 151 months
• Jacques Terell Bledsoe, 30, of Memphis, TN: 24 months
• John Ivory Bridges, 33, of Jonesboro, AK: Time served
• Javier Lopez Cantu, 49, of McAllen, TX: 87 months
• Amos Turner Jr., 61, of Memphis, TN: 33 months
• Justin Anthony Clark, 36, of Whiteville, TN: 30 months
• Lance Jerome Gaston, 38, of Cordova, TN: 151 months
• Jeremiah Gamble, 32, of Memphis, TN: 151 months
• Alejandro Sanchez, 29, of Brownsville, TX: 78 months
• Jesus Arnoldo Solis, 44, of Brownsville, TX: 144 months
• Humphrey Brooks, 39, of Memphis, TN: 84 months
• Antonio Caldwell, 31, of Memphis, TN: Fugitive
According to information presented in court, Hester spearheaded a drug trafficking organization responsible for importing and distributing more than 100 kilograms of cocaine throughout West Tennessee and abroad.
Between 2012 and 2014, law enforcement conducted "Operation Cocaine Lover," an investigation into the drug trafficking organization. Officers conducted extensive physical surveillance, controlled drug purchases, and wiretaps on members within the organization.
During the investigation, law enforcement discovered that massive amounts of cocaine were being transported from Texas to Memphis on a regular basis by Hester and Arnold. The cocaine would then be provided to co-conspirators in varying quantities, including kilograms, half-kilos and ounces. The drugs were subsequently distributed throughout the district.
One of the defendants, Taylor, attempted to bribe a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force officer during a traffic stop to avoid arrest. The stop resulted in the recovery of multiple ounces of cocaine and $31,590 in drug proceeds. Taylor attempted to persuade the officer to take the drugs and money and let him and a co-conspirator go free.
In addition to distributing cocaine, defendants Hester and Arnold were also engaged in money laundering. Hester made large monetary deposits into accounts at SunTrust Bank and Bank of America through two companies he established to conceal his illicit activity.
Arnold obtained a $230,000 mortgage to purchase a house. He used drug proceeds to make payments on the house between late 2010 and 2013. The house was used to store drugs and conduct drug sales.
More than $370,000 in drug proceeds was seized during the investigation, along with multiple residential properties and vehicles.
Each defendant, excluding Caldwell, pleaded guilty to charges within the indictment.
Between September 2015 and September 2016, all of the defendants were sentenced. The sentences collectively amount to more than 120 years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the DEA; IRS-Criminal Investigation; United States Marshals Service; the Memphis, Bartlett, Germantown and Collierville Police Departments; and the Shelby County and Tipton County Sheriff’s Offices.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Two Co-Conspirators Sentenced for Roles in Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Two Memphians have been sentenced for their roles in a tax fraud scheme that defrauded the government of more than $100,000. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee; Tracey D. Montaño, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation; and Tom Noyes, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Charlotte Division announced the sentences today.
According to information presented in court, Kevin Travell Gray, 45, and Mary Payne Curtis, 54; both of Memphis, Tennessee; prepared fraudulent income tax returns between 2011 and 2015.
During the tax scheme, Curtis operated "Right Now Taxes," a tax preparation company in Memphis. Curtis conspired with Gray to use the company to prepare fraudulent income tax returns. The tax returns included false home-based business expenses, education credits and other material misrepresentations on clients’ tax returns. The fraudulent information was used to boost tax refund amounts.
As a result of the fraudulent returns prepared, the IRS approved numerous fraudulent refunds. The investigation revealed that more than $100,000 of false claims were filed during the scheme.
In May 2016, Gray and Curtis both pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to one count of willfully assisting in the preparation of fraudulent income tax returns.
In August 2016, Judge Fowlkes sentenced Curtis to nine months of home detention and ordered her to pay $105,555 in restitution.
On Tuesday, September 20th, U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Gray to 33 months in federal prison and ordered him to pay $151,552 in restitution.
This case was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hall prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Hardin County Businessman Indicted for Allegedly Defrauding Banks of More Than $9 MillionRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – A Hardin County businessman has been indicted for participating in a conspiracy that defrauded three banks of more than $9 million. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.
According to the indictment, Charles Ray Smith, of Hardin County, Tennessee, owned and operated Tennessee Material Corporation (TMC), an establishment that sold construction aggregates, primarily limestone, crushed stone, sand and gravel. Smith also owned and operated other businesses, including American Construction; American Cash and Loan; American Coal and Iron; and Louisiana Materials.
Between March 2009 and March 2012, Smith maintained a business checking account at Central Bank for TMC. He had additional bank accounts for TMC at various financial institutions, including First Metro Bank and Wayne County Bank.
Smith conspired with former Central Bank Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Christopher Brent Jerrolds, 54, of Savanah, Tennessee, to execute a scheme that defrauded Central Bank, Wayne County Bank, and First Metro Bank of more than $9 million. Jerrolds pleaded guilty to bank fraud in May 2016 for his role in the conspiracy.
Smith reportedly deposited insufficiently funded checks ("bad checks") into TMC’s account at Central Bank between March 2009 and October 2010. These bad checks were deposited into TMC’s account to cover overdraft balances. When a previously deposited bad check in TMC’s account was returned for insufficient funds, another bad check drawn on one of TMC’s other bank accounts was deposited to replace the previously deposited bad check(s). The deposited amounts and the frequency of deposits increased each month, and at times, multiple checks were deposited on a single occasion.
By October 18, 2010, Smith was responsible for depositing 161 bad checks into TMC’s account with a total transaction amount of approximately $116,169,218. Jerrolds allowed Smith to deposit the bad checks into TMC’s account at Central Bank. The deposit of the bad checks created false balances in TMC’s account. The fraudulent account balances enabled TMC to unlawfully take approximately $3.9 million belonging to Central Bank.
Furthermore, according to the indictment, between March 2010 and March 2012, Smith allegedly received from Jerrolds various Central Bank "letters of credit." The co-conspirators concealed the issuance of the letters of credit from Central Bank; did not enter the letters of credit into the books and records of Central Bank; and did not obtain approval from the Bank’s Board of Directors to issue the letters of credit.
One of the letters was worth $2 million, which Smith used as collateral to obtain a $2 million loan from Wayne County Bank. In obtaining the loan, Smith concealed from the bank his true financial condition and did not disclose that Central Bank’s board of directors did not authorize the letter of credit. Smith used a portion of the proceeds to the $2 million loan to cover some of the bad checks deposited into TMC’s account at Central Bank.
From March 2011 to March 2012, Smith presented additional letters of credit from Central Bank to Wayne County Bank, to replace the prior letters of credit that were expiring.
Between August 2009 to February 2012, Smith used his businesses to obtain multiple loans from First Metro Bank amounting to $1,783,660.44. Smith collateralized the loans with fraudulent letters of credit from Central Bank.
Wayne County Bank and First Metro Bank both made demands on the letters of credit after Smith defaulted on the loans.
On Monday, September 19, 2016, Smith was charged in a nine-count indictment, which includes one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and eight counts of bank fraud.
If convicted, Smith faces a sentence of up to five years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and up to 20 years on each count of bank fraud. Smith also faces a fine of up to $250,000 for each count in the indictment.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Larry Laurenzi and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Wilson are prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Selmer Police Lieutenant Pleads Guilty to Accessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – A former Selmer Police Department lieutenant has pleaded guilty to accessing child pornography on a hidden website. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
According to information presented in court, Tony O. Miller, 36, of Finger, Tennessee, was a member of a website dedicated to sharing child pornography. Miller used special technology to access it regularly between early January and March 2015. The website could not be found using traditional search engines, like Google or Bing; members had to use special technology designed to conceal their identity in order to access it. Images of minor children engaging in sexual activity with adults were featured on the website. Some of the minors were under 12 years of age.
An undercover investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified users of a website set up for the purposes of sharing child pornography. Visitors to the website could view, download, and comment on other users' material, as well as upload their own. Miller was identified as one of the website’s users.
At the time of the aforementioned conduct, Miller was a lieutenant with the Selmer Police Department.
Miller admitted that he used the Internet and work-issued digital devices to access the website and view child pornography. He also admitted to using technology to try to hide his criminal activity.
On Thursday, September 15, 2016, Miller pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge J. Daniel Breen to one count of accessing with intent to view child pornography.
Miller is scheduled to be sentenced on Friday, December 16th.
He faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case was investigated by the FBI, with assistance from the FBI Major Case Coordination Unit in Linthicum, Maryland, and the Selmer Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Ireland is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
Anyone who believes they may have information about this case or related activities is asked to contact the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force at 901.747.4300.
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 Attorneys' 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab "resources."
Former Truck Driver Sentenced to More Than 15 Years for Using Internet to Exchange Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – A former truck driver has been sentenced to 190 months in federal prison for using an Internet messaging app to distribute and receive child pornography. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, Seferino Saldivar, 42, of McKenzie, Tennessee, used Kik, an Internet messaging app, to moderate a chat room where sexually explicit images of female minors were shared. Saldivar also used social networking service Mocospace to find individuals with similar interests and motivate them to join the Kik chat room.
In June 2015, an undercover officer in Arizona using Kik entered the aforementioned chat room and observed several users exchange child pornography. Law enforcement submitted an administrative subpoena to Kik for the Internet Protocol (IP) address being used by one of the user’s in the chat room. They were notified that the user used a Samsung Galaxy phone to access the Internet through IP 70.194.100.255. The email address listed for the user was also provided to law enforcement.
After linking Saldivar to the particular user name, agents obtained his McKenzie, Tennessee address. A search warrant was subsequently executed on his residence. Saldivar admitted to law enforcement that he used Kik and moderated the chat room being investigated.
A forensic examination of Saldivar’s phone revealed approximately 50 images of child pornography and Kik chat messages.
Saldivar was employed as a truck driver during his criminal activity.
In May 2016, Saldivar pleaded guilty to one count of knowingly distributing child pornography before Chief U.S. District Judge J. Daniel Breen.
On Tuesday, September 14, Judge Breen sentenced Saldivar to 190 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force. The collective is comprised of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Homeland Security Investigations; Shelby County Sheriff's Department; Memphis Police Department; U.S. Postal Investigation Service; U.S. Marshals Service; and the U.S. Secret Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Ireland prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Anyone who believes they may have information about similar cases or related activities is asked to contact the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force at 901.747.4300.
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 Attorneys' 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab "resources."
Sheriff's Deputy Arrested for Extorting Alleged Drug DealerRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Shelby County Sheriff's Office deputy has been arrested for attempting to extort thousands of dollars from an alleged drug dealer. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the criminal complaint today.
According to court documents, Jeremy Drewery, 41, of Arlington, Tennessee, demanded money from a confidential source after the source was arrested on drug charges. In exchange for the money, Drewery promised the source exemption from criminal charges. The source reported the extortion attempt to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). And the source subsequently made a series of payments to Drewery, all recorded by the FBI.
Drewery was assigned to the Shelby County Sheriff's Office’s Narcotics Task Force.
On Wednesday, September 7th, Drewery had his initial appearance in federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diane K. Vescovo.
Drewery is charged with one count of Hobbs Act Extortion.
If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the Tarnished Badge Task Force, which is comprised of investigators from the FBI, Memphis Police Department and the Shelby County Sheriff's Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Reagan M. Taylor is prosecuting this case on the government's behalf.
The charges and allegations in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Dyersburg Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Child Pornography DistributionRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A Dyersburg man has been sentenced to a decade in federal prison for exchanging multiple sexually explicit pictures of minors online. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, Jonathan Lee, 21, of Dyersburg, Tennessee, used email, Dropbox, video chat rooms, and mobile messaging apps to exchange thousands of pornographic images of female minors. He also used the aforementioned platforms to meet teenagers. Lee attempted to persuade the teens to send him images of themselves engaged in sexual activity.
In April 2016, Lee pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to one count of distribution of child pornography.
On Wednesday, August 31, Judge Fowlkes sentenced Lee to 10 years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force. The collective is comprised of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Homeland Security Investigations; Shelby County Sheriff's Department; Memphis Police Department; U.S. Postal Investigation Service; U.S. Marshals Service; and the U.S. Secret Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Ireland prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Anyone who believes they may have information about this case or related activities is asked to contact the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force at 901.747.4300.
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 Attorneys' 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab "resources."
Former Millington Reserve Officer Receives 26 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A former Millington reserve police officer has been sentenced to serve more than a quarter century in federal prison for producing child pornography of three female minors. The defendant also transported a minor across state lines with intent to engage in unlawful sexual activity. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.
"Anyone who chooses to prey on the most vulnerable members of our society deserves to be behind bars," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "As a former reserve police officer, Friar was sworn to serve and protect the citizens of our community from crime. But he broke that oath to satisfy his own abhorrent fetishes, and will spend the next 26 years in federal prison because of his egregious acts."
According to information presented in court, on July 13, 2015, a Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Deputy responded to a call at the Millington residence of Rickie Friar, 67. The call was made by Friar’s housekeeper, who had stopped by the defendant’s residence to do some chores. Friar was out of town at the time. While there, a female minor who accompanied the housekeeper opened Friar’s iPad and showed the housekeeper sexually explicit images of children who regularly spent time with Friar.
A forensic examination of Friar’s iPad, along with other electronic devices seized during a search of his residence revealed additional videos and images of female minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Friar is visible in some of the images and videos, and his voice can be heard in others. The videos and images were produced between July 2013 and May 2015. Two of the victims were under 12 years old at the time; one was under the age of 18 years old.
Hours after his housekeeper notified law enforcement of what had been seen on Friar’s iPad, Friar was located in Arkansas, returning from a trip to Oklahoma. He had a female minor with him. Law enforcement agents found receipts, dated a day or two earlier, for sex toys and lubricant in Friar’s vehicle.
In May 2016, Friar pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to:
• one count of knowingly transporting a minor under the age of 18 years old between the states of Tennessee and Oklahoma for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity;
• tw0 counts of attempting to and knowingly using a female minor under 12 years old to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct;
• one count of attempting to and knowingly using a female minor under the age of 18 years old to engage in sexually explicit conduct.
On Monday, August 29, 2016, Judge Fowlkes sentenced Friar to 312 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force. The collective is comprised of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Homeland Security Investigations; Shelby County Sheriff's Department; Memphis Police Department; U.S. Postal Investigation Service; U.S. Marshals Service; and the U.S. Secret Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Ireland prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Anyone who believes they may have information about this case or related activities is asked to contact the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force at 901.747.4300.
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 Attorneys' 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab "resources."
12 Collectively Sentenced to More Than 83 Years for Roles in Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Twelve defendants in a multi-state narcotics trafficking conspiracy have been collectively sentenced to 998 months in federal prison. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentences today.
According to information presented in court, between March 2014 and July 2015, the defendants conspired with each other to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine. The defendants utilized the United States Postal Service to ship the drugs from California to Memphis for distribution.
The defendants and their respective sentences:
• Dexter White, 27, of Memphis, TN: 216 months
• Travis Huston, 34, of Turrell, AR: 180 months
• Fred Wilson, 32, of Gates, TN: 120 months
• Johnnie Wilborn, 26, of Merced, CA: 78 months
• Carlos Lewis, 39, of Memphis, TN: 77 months
• Patrice Lee, 34, of Memphis, TN: 18 months
• Brittany Huston, 28, of Cordova, TN: 80 months
• Deontoe Huston, 33, of Turrell, AR: 41 months
• Larry Cassidy, Jr, 36, of Turrell, AR: 70 months
• Robert Earl Williams, 35, of Marion, AR: 60 months
• Phillip Sean Mosley, 31, of Turrell, AR: 40 months
• Janice White, 51, of Memphis, TN: 18 months
Law enforcement’s investigation into the criminal organization revealed that Dexter White and Travis Huston were the drug trafficking organization’s leaders. They recruited family members and friends for their illicit enterprise, including White’s girlfriend (Brittany Huston) and mother (Janice White) and Huston’s brother (Deontoe Huston).
Over the course of the conspiracy, Dexter White and Travis Huston shipped meth to Memphis from California. They teamed up with Wilborn, based in California, who helped the men expand their operation. And they later added Wilson to their criminal organization. Furthermore, Brittany Huston and Janice White helped the men launder the money acquired as drug proceeds.
In July 2015, all of the defendants were indicted on multiple charges, which included conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute meth and money laundering.
Each defendant pleaded guilty to charges within the indictment.
Between May and August 2016, they were all sentenced by U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman to federal imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Reagan M. Taylor prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Memphis Couple Collectively Sentenced to More Than 30 Years for Robbing Multiple BusinessesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A couple has been collectively sentenced to more than 390 months in federal prison for robbing multiple businesses throughout Memphis. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentences today.
According to information presented in court, between May and June 2015, Julius Knight, 33; and Deidra Mason, 25; both of Memphis; participated in the armed robbery of multiple Family Dollar Stores, a Subway, Papa John’s, and Dollar General. Knight robbed two additional restaurants independently.
During the robberies, Knight would enter the businesses with a weapon and demand employees to remove money from the cash registers. In some of the robberies, Knight used various methods to disguise his identity, including wearing a red wig, skull cap, or baseball cap, as well as pantyhose over his face. Mason, his girlfriend at the time, served as his getaway driver.
Law enforcement discovered that the description of the person who robbed the aforementioned businesses were similar. Furthermore, a blue Ford Taurus was identified as the getaway car used in the robberies of a Family Dollar, Subway and Papa John’s.
On June 1, 2015, officers stopped a blue Ford Taurus that matched the description of the reported getaway vehicle. Mason was driving the car. After officers discovered her driver’s license was suspended, they arrested her. They later discovered Mason served as the getaway driver in the series of robberies.
Following Mason’s arrest, Knight executed two business robberies barefaced. On June 3, 2015, Knight robbed a Church’s Chicken on Chelsea Avenue. Five days later, he robbed another Church’s on Thomas Avenue. When officers responded to the June 8th robbery, Church’s employees informed them that Knight approached one of the employees from behind as they worked the drive-through window. He demanded money from the register before jumping over the counter and fleeing. There were customers at the drive-through window when the robbery took place who were able to see Knight’s face and weapon. Fingerprints were lifted from the store that matched Knight’s, and he was later located and arrested.
In April 2016, Mason pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman to six counts of aiding and abetting Knight during the robbery of a business engaged in interstate commerce.
In May 2016, Knight pleaded guilty before Judge Lipman to six counts of aiding and abetting Mason in the robbery of a business engaged in interstate commerce; one count of using a firearm during the robbery of a business engaged in interstate commerce; and two counts of robbing a business engaged in interstate commerce.
On Tuesday, August 2, Judge Lipman sentenced Mason to 63 months in federal prison.
On Thursday, August 25, Judge Lipman sentenced Knight to 336 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Memphis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lorraine Craig and Dean DeCandia prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.
Federal Inmate, Co-Conspirator Indicted for Alleged Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A federal prisoner in Mississippi, along with a co-conspirator in West Tennessee, has been indicted for allegedly operating a tax fraud scheme. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictments today.
According to the indictment, between January and April of 2014, Henry Lamont Jones, 41; and Toni Chinwah, 45; both of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; operated a scheme in which they filed and attempted to file federal fraudulent income tax returns using stolen identity information. During the course of the scheme, Jones, who was an inmate at FCI Yazoo City, Mississippi, would obtain personal identifying information. Jones would secretly pass the information to Chinwah, who wasn’t incarcerated, during prison visiting hours. She would then prepare and file fraudulent federal income tax returns using the information in an attempt to obtain income tax refunds.
After becoming aware of the scheme, detectives with the Memphis Police Department Organized Crime Unit (MPD-OCU), working in an undercover capacity, made contact with the defendants. The defendants presumed that the officers were helping them in their scheme. Chinwah prepared income tax returns using controlled identity information provided by the undercover officers, which she believed to have been stolen, and electronically filed those returns with the expectation that the conspirators would receive federal income tax refunds.
On Tuesday, August 16, both Jones and Chinwah were indicted on one count of false claims conspiracy. Chinwah was also charged with four counts of attempted submission of false claims.
Each charge carries a penalty of up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by MPD-OCU and IRS-Criminal Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Cotten is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Club Owner, Law Enforcement Officers Indicted on Charges of Receiving Stolen MerchandiseRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A club owner, Memphis Police officer and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office sergeant have all been indicted for their alleged roles in buying liquor, electronics and footwear they believed to be stolen. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee; Memphis Police Director Michael Rallings; and Shelby County Sheriff Bill Oldham announced the indictments today.
"Individuals who engage in criminal conduct and violate the public’s trust, including those who take an oath to protect and serve our community, will be held accountable for their actions," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "No one is above the law."
The defendants include:
• Roy Hughes, 57, of Memphis, Tennessee
• Warren Jones, 63, of Memphis, Tennessee
• Torrance Taylor, 41, of Millington, Tennessee
Hughes is reportedly the owner of the Gentlemen’s Club on Thomas Street. Jones is a sergeant with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. And Taylor is an officer with the Memphis Police Department.
According to the indictment, between October 2015 and May 2016, Hughes unlawfully received cases of liquor and electronic devices, including Apple iPhones, a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, and a Samsung Gear watch, from an individual acting at the direction of federal law enforcement officers. Hughes allegedly knew the items, worth more than $1,000, were stolen. He also transported cases of liquor from Mississippi to Memphis for resale at the Gentlemen’s Club.
Taylor and Jones, both law enforcement officers, also bought property they believed was stolen from an individual acting at the direction of federal law enforcement officers.
"The alleged actions taken by these law enforcement officers are unacceptable and will not be tolerated," said Director Rallings. "As I have said many times, no one is above the law. This alleged unlawful behavior in no way should be a reflection on the officers who continue to work hard and diligently to serve and protect the citizens of Memphis."
"We continually work to seek out those in law enforcement who violate their oath of office and commit criminal acts," said Sheriff Oldham. "The Sheriff’s Office fully supports and participates with all of our law enforcement partners in this effort."
On Monday, August 22, all three defendants had their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diane K. Vescovo.
Hughes is charged with one count of knowingly receivingmore than $1,000 worth of cases of liquor and assorted electronics, including Apple iPhones, a Samsung Galaxy Tablet and a Samsung Gear watch, and believing the property was stolen based on the representations of a person acting at the direction of a federal law enforcement officer.
Hughes is also charged with one count of unlawfully transporting more than $5,000 worth of cases of liquor and Apple iPhones from Mississippi to Tennessee, believing the property was stolen based on representations of a person acting at the direction of a federal law enforcement officer.
Jones is charged with one count of knowingly receiving Samsung Galaxy Tablets and a DeWalt tool kit worth more than $1,000, and believing the property was stolen based on representations of a person acting at the direction of a federal law enforcement officer.
Taylor is charged with one count of receiving more than $1,000 worth of boots and shoes, and believing the property was stolen based on representations of a person acting at the direction of a federal law enforcement officer.
All of the aforementioned charges carry individual penalties of up to 10 years in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the Tarnished Badge Task Force, which is comprised of investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Memphis Police Department and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Erskine is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Owner of Rainbow Center for Children Pleads to Defrauding TennCare of More Than $300,000Read the Press Release
Memphis, TN – The owner of a grief counseling and psychotherapy services provider has pleaded guilty to defrauding TennCare of more than $300,000. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.
According to information presented in court, Vicky Fox, 53, of Memphis, Tennessee, owned and operated the Rainbow Center for Children and Adolescents. The establishment provided grief counseling and psychotherapy services to children and families in the Memphis area.
The Rainbow Center contracted with TennCare, the Tennessee-based program of Medicaid, from 2008 through 2013 and 2015. Under the contract, the Rainbow Center employed Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) to provide counseling services. One of the LCSWs, Lillie Hughey, worked for the establishment until January 2012. After Hughey left the Rainbow Center, Fox used her former employee’s provider number and information to bill TennCare for counseling services that were never provided.
In August 2014, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) received a referral from the Bureau of TennCare, Program Integrity Unit (PIU) regarding a fraud investigation involving the Rainbow Center. The investigation revealed that Fox’s fraudulent claims scheme defrauded TennCare of more than $300,000.
On Friday, August 19, Fox pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to one count of health care fraud.
Fox is scheduled to be sentenced onNovember 18, 2016. She faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
This case is being investigated by TBI and the Bureau of TennCare.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Damon Keith Griffin is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.
Two Men Collectively Sentenced to More Than 20 Years for Possessing Large Quantities of Multiple Controlled Substances, FirearmsRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Two Memphis men have been collectively sentenced to more than 240 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute large quantities of heroin, cocaine, marijuana and oxycodone. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentences today.
According to information presented in court, 40-year-old Freeman Monger and 45-year-old Jeffrey Ingram, both of Memphis, possessed with intent to distribute large quantities of heroin, cocaine, marijuana and oxycodone. Ingram also unlawfully possessed multiple handguns and rifles.
In April 2013, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop on Ingram and found a large quantity of cocaine in his vehicle. Deputies later executed a search warrant at Ingram’s residence, as well as storage units he maintained. Eleven handguns and two rifles were recovered from the storage units.
Over two years later, in August 2015, deputies executed a search warrant on a residence owned by Monger. Upon entering the residence, law enforcement located Monger and Ingram in separate parts of the house. A subsequent search of the residence yielded hundreds of grams of heroin, cocaine, marijuana, as well as 50 oxycodone pills. The residence was reportedly used to stash and distribute narcotics.
A search warrant was also conducted on Ingram’s residence in August 2015. Deputies recovered a Beretta 9mm pistol during the search.
In February 2016, both Ingram and Monger pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to multiple offenses.
Ingram pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine; individual counts of aiding and abetting a co-conspirator in possession with the intent to distribute multiple grams of heroin, cocaine, marijuana and oxycodone; felony possession of 13 firearms; felony possession of 12 firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and felony possession of a Beretta 9mm pistol.
Monger pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting a co-conspirator in unlawful possession with the intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, marijuana and oxycodone.
In June 2016, Judge Fowlkes sentenced Monger to 78 months in federal prison.
On Thursday, August 18, Judge Fowlkes sentenced Ingram to 168 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lorraine Craig prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.