Western District of Tennessee
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Jackson, Tennessee, Duo Sentenced in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – Jennifer Azbill-Hall, 43, and Benjamin Vargason, 61, both of Jackson, Tennessee, have been sentenced to federal prison for their involvement in a bank fraud scheme. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentences today.
According to United States Attorney Ritz and the information presented in court, Hall and Vargason were indicted in December 2019, in connection with a scheme to steal almost $820,000 from B&H Finance between January 2015 and September 2018. According to the indictment, Hall opened fictitious accounts in the names of former customers of B&H Finance, where she was employed. Hall took out loans and forged endorsements on checks made payable to the customers and cashed the checks through Vargason’s business, Great American Sports. Vargason deposited the checks in his company's account and kept a portion of the proceeds.
Hall was also sentenced in connection with a separate scheme to defraud JMS Restoration while employed there between July 2018 and July 2019. Hall used her access to the company's bank account to pay her mortgage and to transfer funds to CastleGate Kennels which was owned by her husband.
United States District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Hall to 30 months imprisonment followed by two years supervised release. Hall was also ordered to pay restitution of $920,218.59 and a mandatory assessment fee of $1,600. Vargason was sentenced to time served and placed on supervised release for three years with six months to be served in home confinement. Vargarson was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $819,916.63. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Jackson, Tennessee Police Department.
United States Attorney Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Carroll L. André III and former Assistant United States Attorney Matthew J. Wilson who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated this case.
Greyhound Bus Passenger Convicted of Trafficking NarcoticsRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Juan Covarrubias-Garcia, 34, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 400
grams or more of fentanyl and 500 grams or more of cocaine. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz
announced the guilty plea today.According to United States Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, on November 14, 2022,
West Tennessee Drug Task Force Agents were working at the Greyhound bus station in Memphis, when
they met an inbound bus from Oklahoma City. The defendant, Juan Covarrubias Garcia, a passenger on
the bus, was found to be in possession of two brown bricks wrapped in mailing tape. Further search
revealed the packages contained 990.8 grams of cocaine, approximately 1 kilogram of fentanyl
powder, and 5,033 fentanyl pills.The penalty for possession of 400 grams or more of fentanyl is not less than 10 years’
imprisonment, not more than life, not more than a $10,000,000 fine, and not less than 5 years’
supervised release. The penalty for possession of 500 grams or more, of cocaine is not less than 5
years’ imprisonment, not more than 40 years, not more than a $5,000,000 fine, and not less than 4
years’ supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.Sentencing is scheduled for September 13, 2023, before Chief District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman.
This case was investigated by the West Tennessee Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement
Administration.Assistant United States Attorneys Bryce Phillips and Michelle Kimbril-Parks are prosecuting this
case.###
Convicted Felon and Grape Street Crip Gang Member Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Fredrick Bonner, 26, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for illegal possession of a firearm. United States Attorney Kevin Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to United States Attorney Ritz and the information presented in court, on September 29, 2020, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted an operation in which Bonner sold a MAG Tactical Systems, multi-caliber rifle to investigators. Bonner was arrested on October 15, 2021, for the federal law violation as well as multiple outstanding state warrants.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Bonner had previously been convicted of a felony in Memphis and was affiliated with the Grape Street Crips gang.
Bonner pled guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
“Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the men and women of the ATF and our valued law enforcement partners in their efforts to confront violent crime. We will utilize every resource to disrupt the illegal activities gangs engage in such as the illegal possession of firearms, distribution of narcotics, and other acts of violence within the communities that we serve. This sentence is a perfect example of what it looks like when the revolving door of crime stops spinning. The cycle of violence must stop,” said Marcus Watson Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Nashville.
United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker sentenced Bonner to 108 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Gregory Allen who prosecuted this case, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
Kentucky Businessmen Sentenced in Decade Long Scheme to Defraud FCCRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Charles A. “Chuck” Jones, 52, and Mark J. Whitaker, 51, both of Murray, Kentucky,
have been convicted of federal crimes and sentenced for a decade long scheme to defraud the Federal
Communications Commission’s (FCC) E-rate program. United States Attorney Kevin Ritz announced the
sentences today.According to United States Attorney Ritz and the information presented in court, the E- rate
program is an FCC program that provides money to needy schools, often in rural areas of America,
for internet access and telecommunications services. The program has specific rules that forbid
service providers to the schools, such as Jones, from paying kickbacks to school officials and
consultants. The E-rate program also requires participating service providers to charge at least a
10% copay.For approximately 10 years, Jones, owner of several Murray, Kentucky businesses, paid kickbacks to
an E-rate consultant working with the Missouri and Tennessee schools involved in this case. During
the conspiracy Jones, his employee Mark J. Whitaker, and the schools’ E-rate consultant, made false
statements and submitted fabricated documents regarding the required copays and the program’s fair
and open bidding process. Jones used the victim schools as a vehicle to fraudulently obtain money
from the E-rate program. The loss to the E-rate program was approximately $6.9 million.Jones pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and Whitaker pled guilty to misprision on wire
fraud.United States District Judge Mark S. Norris sentenced Jones to 18 months imprisonment, three years
of supervised release, and ordered him to pay $3.5 million in restitution.
Judge Norris sentenced Whitaker to one year of probation.United States Attorney Kevin Ritz said, "Protection of federal grant programs that provide
needed services and equipment to our schools in West Tennessee is a top priority of thisoffice. When dishonest offenders conspire to defraud these programs for their own selfish gain,
they not only steal tax dollars, but also hurt local schools in the process. We will continue to
work with our federal partners to root out and expose such fraud against the government, to hold
offenders accountable, and to recover ill-gotten gains."Sharon R. Diskin, Acting FCC Inspector General said, "These sentences send a strong message that
individuals who defraud a vital federal subsidy program, such as E-rate, will be held fully
accountable for their actions. I would like to thank our partners in the United States Attorney's
office for the Western District of Tennessee and the FBI for their unrelenting dedication to this
case.”This case was investigated by the Federal Communications Commission - Office of Inspector General
and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked former Assistant United States Attorney Murre Foster and
Assistant United States Attorney Tony Arvin who prosecuted this case,
as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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Husband and Wife Sentenced for International Wire Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Caesar Oruade, 39, and Ayana Saunders, 37, of Hawthorne, California, have been sentenced to federal prison for wire fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to launder money. Kevin G. Ritz, United States Attorney, announced today.
According to United States Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, in May 2017, a computer intrusion at a real estate company resulted in a Memphis woman’s $76,000 down payment on a home being diverted to the bank account of a co-conspirator. Agents investigating the case traced the funds and found that the $76,000 had been "chopped" and sent to several other U.S. bank account holders before ultimately being wired to an account in Nigeria.
Many others across the United States and in Canada had been similarly victimized in their attempts to purchase real estate. The proceeds of romance scams and “hard money” loan scams were also flowing through the same accounts. Bank accounts belonging to defendant Ayana Saunders generally served as the last domestic stop for funds before leaving the United States. Testimony at trial showed that Saunders would take some of the funds before wiring the remaining monies to the Nigerian bank account of her husband, Caesar Oruade.
"These sentences are the result of state and federal law enforcement working together to protect the public from real estate and romance scammers and bringing those responsible to justice," said Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Memphis Field Office. “The FBI continues to hold as a priority the targeting of domestic and foreign fraudsters who seek to scam innocent people out of their hard-earned money."
Senior United States District Judge J. Daniel Breen sentenced Oruade and Saunders to federal prison for 70 months and 60 months, respectively, followed by three years of supervised release. The defendants were also ordered to pay more than one million dollars in restitution. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Memphis Division, United States Secret Service (USSS), FBI – Los Angeles Division and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Debra Ireland and Raney Irwin, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
###Memphis Man Sentenced for Armed Robbery of Postal CarriersRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Sidney Poitier Pilcher, Jr., a/k/a Slimey Sidd, 21, has been sentenced to over nine
years in federal prison for aiding and abetting in the robbery of postal carriers while brandishing
a firearm. Kevin G. Ritz, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced
the sentence today.According to United States Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, the United States
Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) began investigating complaints of stolen or missing mail from
collection boxes in the Memphis area. During the investigation, officers seized stolen mail, black
ripped jeans, and a lime-green reflective vest from locations frequented by Pilcher. The clothing
matched the description of the masked suspect during the postal robbery committed on September 26,
2022. Pilcher pled guilty on February 16, 2023.United States Senior District Judge Jon P. McCalla, sentenced Pilcher to 114 months in federal
prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal
system.This case was investigated by the USPIS and the Memphis Police Department.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Reid Manning, who
prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated
the case.Lakeland Woman Sentenced for Student Loan FraudRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Kelli L. Pollard, 56, of Lakeland, has been sentenced to federal prison for obtaining
federally insured student loan funds. Kevin G. Ritz, United States Attorney for the Western
District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.According to United States Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, between 2017 and 2021,
Pollard made false statements and submitted false and forged documents to the University of Memphis
to qualify for $94,299 in student loans.United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker sentenced Pollard to one year and one day in federal
prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay restitution
to the United States Department of Education. There is no parole in the federal system.The case was investigated by the United States Department of Education Office of Inspector General.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked former Assistant United States Attorney Murre Foster and
Assistant United States Attorney Carroll L. André III, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.United States Attorney Ritz Announces Recent Prosecutions for “Switches” and Releases Public Service Announcement about Illegal Machine Gun Conversion DevicesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Today, United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz, along with federal and local law
enforcement partners, announced the prosecution of 26 individuals for crimes involving machine gun
conversion devices, also known as “switches” or auto sears. These switches transform a
semiautomatic firearm into a machine gun capable of firing dozens of rounds of ammunition in a
couple of seconds.United States Attorney Ritz also released a 60-second public service announcement, available here,
about the danger posed by switches. The PSA features a trained agent demonstrating how these
illegal devices turn a firearm into a machine gun that is essentially impossible to control. In the
PSA, United States Attorney Ritz also explains that simply possessing a switch can result in
significant penalties—up to 10 years in federal prison.United States Attorney Ritz said: “Switches are illegal and highly dangerous devices that convert
semiautomatic firearms into machine guns. These devices threaten public safety and make the gun
violence problem even worse. As our recent prosecutions show, we are vigorously enforcing the
federal laws prohibiting machine gun conversion devices. I encourage the public to watch our new
public service announcement and spread the word: anyone with a switch will face significant time in
federal prison.”The U.S. Attorney’s Office has made prosecution of crimes involving switches a top priority. In
recent months, Assistant United States Attorneys in both Memphis and Jackson have prosecuted 26
individuals for illegally possessing switches. These cases, which are detailed below, were
investigated by federal and local law enforcement partners, including the Bureau of Alcohol,
Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland
Security Investigations (HSI), the Memphis Police Department (MPD), and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO).“These illegal machine gun conversion devices more commonly referred to as ‘switches’ can
significantly enhance the rate of fire of a semi-automatic firearm. This enhancement adds to the
potential lethality of the weapon. Our communities are experiencing an unacceptable increase in
firearm related violence and these devices have no place on our streets,” said Marcus Watson,
Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Nashville.Memphis Police Chief, Cerelyn “CJ” Davis said, "Gun violence has increasingly plagued our city in
recent years, causing death and trauma throughout. Switches and similar devices have only
exacerbated these urgent issues in our community, prompting the need for stronger enforcement. We
are grateful for U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz and his team of prosecutors for aggressively seeking the
maximum penalties for individuals who brazenly commit violence."“The illegal importation and use of switches create a significant threat to public safety. As
simple to manufacture as they are quick to install, conversion devices turn regular firearms into a
machine gun capable of inflicting tremendous harm in a split second. Homeland Security
Investigations (HSI) is committed to stopping the transnational criminal organizations that
conspire to import these illegal firearm conversion kits used for violent criminal acts and harming
the communities we serve,” said Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud, HSI Nashville.“The United States Marshals Service always stands ready to assist our local, state, and federal
partners in executing arrest warrants for suspects who possess weapons with ‘switches’ or
modifications. These suspects pose a consequential threat to our communities and will be a priority
for our fugitive task forces,” said Tyreece Miller, United States Marshal, Western District of
Tennessee.The following defendants have been convicted and sentenced for federal crimes involving switches.
There is no parole in the federal system.• Prenagio Baines, 21. Baines was a member of AOB, a violent hybrid street gang operating in
Memphis. On March 13, 2022, MPD officers encountered a vehicle parked on the wrong side of the
road. Baines got out of the vehicle. Officers discovered a .40 caliber pistol with a machine gun
conversion device attached. Baines admitted that he left the gun in the vehicle. He pled guilty to
possessing a machine gun and was sentenced on February 27, 2023, to 24 months in prison.• Daniel Banks, 23. Banks fled from officers on foot during a traffic stop. He dropped a firearm
with a switch after he jumped over a fence. Banks pled guilty to drug and gun crimes, including
possession of a machine gun, and was sentenced on March 24, 2023, to 84 months.• Justin Hardaway, 23. Hardaway was a member of the Grape Street Crips, a violent street gang
operating in Memphis. In March 2022, officers followed Hardaway driving a stolen Dodge Charger into
the parking lot of a convenience store. The officers placed Hardaway into custody and recovered a
.40 caliber Glock handgun with a machine gun conversion device attached. Hardaway pled guilty to possessing a machine gun and was sentenced on February 14, 2023, to 30 months.• Terrance Jones, 24. ATF learned that Jones was selling drugs, which led to a search warrant
executed on his trap house. Jones had a home camera system that recorded him selling drugs with
firearms. The switch charge derived from a separate incident—a shooting at Young Dolph’s memorial.
Jones was in the car that fled the scene, and the evidence showed that he discarded a firearm with
the switch. Jones pled guilty. He was sentenced on October 27, 2022, to 30 months on the switch
charge and a consecutive 60 months on a separate firearm charge.• Daniel Kirtman, 25. Kirtman, a convicted felon, sold a short-barreled rifle. Agents arrested
Kirtman and seized a Glock pistol equipped with an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion
device. Kirtman pled guilty to firearm crimes and was sentenced on December 7, 2022, to 102 months
in prison.• Michael Thomas, 24. Thomas sold and possessed multiple machine gun conversion devices. Thomas
pled guilty to possessing the switches and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug
trafficking crime. He was sentenced on December 1, 2022, to 84 months.• Michael Naylor, 26. Investigators discovered Naylor worked at a gun store and was selling
machine guns, switches, and other firearms. During the investigation, agents met with Naylor on two
different occasions to purchase switches. In the first meeting, undercover ATF agents purchased
three switches, and in the second meeting agents purchased one switch. On the final occasion,
Naylor brought twenty switches to sell. ATF agents arrested him. Naylor pled guilty and was
sentenced on March 3, 2023, to 27 months.The following defendants have been convicted of federal crimes involving switches and are awaiting
sentencing. Under federal law, the penalty for possession of a machine gun is up to 10 years in
prison.• Kameron Chatman, 20. Chatman was seen in a Facebook video with a switch. On March 9, 2023, he
pled guilty in federal court in Jackson, Tennessee, to firearm crimes, including possession of a
machine gun.• Avonta Gregory, 21. Gregory, a member of the AOB violent hybrid street gang in Memphis, pled
guilty on May 1, 2023, to possessing a Glock firearm with a 22- round magazine and a machine gun
conversion device.• Martavious Hodges, 23. Hodges, a member of the Fast Cash violent hybrid street gang in Memphis,
sold firearms with switches on January 7, 2022, and January 26, 2022. On February 9, 2022, officers
arrested Hodges with six switches before the third controlled delivery. He pled guilty on March
22, 2023, to possession of a machine gun.• Cameron Person, 20. Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Person’s residence and located
four switches, materials to put together another one, and two firearms. He pled guilty in federal
court in Jackson, Tennessee, on March 7, 2023, to possession of a machine gun.• Michael Rimmer, Jr., 21. Law enforcement recovered five firearms possessed by Rimmer. Two had
switches. Rimmer pled guilty on March 20, 2023, to a drug crime and possession of machine guns.• Mitchell Shaw, 23. Shaw pled guilty on September 28, 2022, in federal court in Jackson,
Tennessee, to possessing a machine gun.• Maurice Wilson, 38. Defendant possessed a switch and pled guilty on March 14, 2023, to firearm
crimes.• Dionco Lowe, 25. During the investigation into Lowe, law enforcement recovered four firearms
and a machine gun conversion device. Lowe pled guilty on May 9, 2023, to being a felon in
possession of a firearm.The following defendants have been charged with federal crimes involving switches. Members of the
public are reminded that an indictment is an accusation and only contains charges. Each defendant
is presumed innocent of the charges and it is the government’s burden to prove each defendant’s
guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.• Nakiel Addison, 25. Addison was indicted on March 30, 2023, for federal gun crimes, including
possessing a firearm with a switch.• Khamron Roberts, 25. Roberts was indicted on April 27, 2023, for federal gun crimes, including
possessing a firearm with a switch.• Roosevelt Wilson, 42. Wilson was indicted on April 27, 2023, for federal gun crimes. His alleged
crime involved ordering 25 switches from China.• Jaquan Bridges, 22. Bridges was indicted on April 27, 2023, for possessing a machine gun. His
alleged crime involved shooting at a SCSO deputy on the interstate. Investigators recovered a gun
with a switch.• Jaqerious Conner, 25. Conner was indicted on November 10, 2022, for drug and gun crimes,
including possession of a machine gun. Conner was investigated for trafficking drugs and switches.
Officers recovered multiple firearms, one of which was a Glock with a machine gun conversion
device.• Quatavious Doggett, 23. Doggett was indicted on March 16, 2023, for being a felon in possession
of a firearm and possession of a machine gun. His alleged crime involved possession of a firearm
with a switch.• Pariss Johnson, 36, Paris Brown, 22, and Leroy Cloyd, 22. These three defendants were indicted
on February 16, 2023, for possessing machine guns. During the investigation, law enforcement
performed undercover purchases of machine gun conversion devices.• Timothy Williams, 25. Williams was indicted on February 7, 2023, for being a felon in possession
of firearms and other crimes. During the investigation, law enforcement recovered four firearms and
a machine gun conversion device.• Eddie Martinez, 25. Martinez was indicted on January 26, 2023, for possession of a machine gun.
During the investigation agents recovered a Glock 9mm pistol with a switch and loaded with 23
rounds.Several defendants charged in this series of indictments are alleged to be convicted felons. Under
federal law, is it illegal for an individual convicted of a felony to possess a firearm or
ammunition.Anyone with information about switches or other federal gun crimes can call 1-800-ATF- GUNS
(1-800-283-4867).United States Attorney Ritz offered his gratitude to the Assistant United States Attorneys who are
prosecuting these cases, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated
cases.
Memphis Man Charged with Trafficking Counterfeit Airbags from ChinaRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Mohammed Al-Abadi, 51, of Memphis, has been indicted and arrested for one count of trafficking in counterfeit goods and one count of causing the criminal transportation of hazardous materials by air carrier. United States Attorney Kevin Ritz announced the charges today.
According to United States Attorney Ritz and the information presented in court, from about October 1, 2019, to January 14, 2021, Al-Abadi imported counterfeit motor vehicle airbag parts from China, assembled them and then sold them on eBay to unsuspecting automobile repair shops and individual customers. Federal agents recovered more than 2,000 counterfeit airbags and parts from the defendant’s residence and place of business.
“The alleged actions of the defendant have placed unsuspecting motorists and the general public in harm’s way,” said United States Attorney Kevin Ritz. “Vehicle airbags are subject to strict quality standards which must be followed to ensure passenger safety. The defendant’s alleged actions undermined the efforts of the automobile industry and regulatory bodies to keep the public safe.”
“The diligent and extensive investigative work by our special agents led to the discovery of the sale of fraudulent, counterfeit airbags, sold by bypassing regulatory oversight meant to keep dangerous and ineffective products out of the U.S. market,” said Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud, HSI Nashville. “The defendant will now have to answer for his alleged criminal actions that put consumers lives at risk.”
“Counterfeit air bags are not regulated or tested to ensure they meet federal safety standards, and when transported and used by unsuspecting consumers, they can be unsafe and lead to potentially grave consequences,” said Todd Damiani, Special Agent in Charge, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Southern Region. “The indictment and arrest handed down demonstrates the continuous coordination with our federal and prosecutorial partners to curtail the flow of these dangerous and illegal automobile products into the United States.”
If convicted, Al-Abadi faces up to ten years imprisonment and a fine of two million dollars for trafficking in the counterfeit airbags and up to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 for causing the transportation of hazardous materials by air carrier. Both charges also carry a period of up to three years supervision following release from imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Department of Transportation-Office of Inspector General.
Assistant United States Attorney Raney Irwin is prosecuting this case.
Man Sentenced to over 19 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Jon Glover, 57, of Millington, was sentenced to federal prison for distribution of
methamphetamine and for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. United States Attorney
Kevin Ritz announced the sentence today.According to U.S. Attorney Ritz, and the information presented in court, in 2021, the Drug
Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating the drug trafficking activities of Glover.
During the course of the investigation, officers seized approximately one-half kilogram of
methamphetamine and a Smith & Wesson 9mm caliber pistol. After his arrest, Glover pleaded guilty.This week, United States District Court Judge John T. Fowlkes, Jr., sentenced Glover to 230 months
in federal prison. There is no parole in the federal system.This case was investigated by DEA, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, and the West Tennessee
Drug Task Force.United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Kimbril-Parks,
who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or
[email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Four Charged with Failure to Register as Sex OffendersRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – In April 2023, federal grand juries in Jackson and Memphis returned indictments
against four convicted sex offenders for failure to register or maintain their registration when
they moved to Tennessee, in violation of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act
(SORNA). United States Attorney Kevin Ritz announced the indictments today.According to United States Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, the following sex
offenders failed to update their registration to reflect travel to the Western District of
Tennessee (WDTN).• Terrell Chase Powell, 40, present in the WDTN from September 27 to December 15, 2022.
• Edward Elbert Thompson, 75, present in the WDTN from January 2022 to March 2, 2023.
• Jose Lozano, 45, present in the WDTN from November 29, 2021, to January 6, 2022; and
• Lorenzo Mitchell, 41, present in the WDTN from October 29 to December 5, 2022SORNA requires sex offenders to register and keep their registration current in each jurisdiction
in which they reside, work, or go to school.“Most convicted sex offenders who live and work in West Tennessee meet their registration
requirements and are productive members of our communities. Compliance with SORNA holds convicted
sex offenders accountable to law enforcement and helps to keep our communities safe. Failure to
register is a serious offense, and my office will aggressively pursue those offenders who attempt
to avoid their legal obligations when
st Tennessee,” said United States Attorney Kevin Ritz.United States Marshal for the Western District of Tennessee Tyreece Miller said, “Congress directed
the United States Marshals Service to locate absconded sex offenders through the Adam Walsh Child
Protection and Safety Act in July 2006. Our office takes this responsibility seriously and is
proactive in locating and arresting non-compliant sex offenders. These indictments are examples of
our partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and commitment to protecting the citizens in the
Western District of Tennessee.”If convicted, each defendant faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and a
period of supervised of five years to life. There is no parole in the federal system.The case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment only contains charges. Each defendant is
presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government's burden to prove each defendant's
guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Davis and Lauren Delery are prosecuting the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or
[email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Memphis Man Sentenced to over 21 Years in Federal Prison for Robbery and Attempted RobberyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Rodercus Freeman, 42, was sentenced to over two decades in federal prison for bank robbery and attempted credit union robbery. Freeman was convicted of the charges following a five-day jury trial in August 2022. United States Attorney Kevin Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to United States Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, on August 18, 2018, Freeman robbed Independent Bank on Poplar Avenue in Memphis, using a simulated firearm. Two weeks later, Freeman attempted to rob Southern Security Federal Credit Union on Ridge Meadow Parkway.
United States District Judge John T. Fowlkes, Jr., sentenced Freeman to 240 months for the bank robbery and 22 months for the attempted credit union robbery, to run consecutive to one another for a total of 262 months. The court also sentenced the defendant to serve three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Ritz said: “These federal robbery crimes were very serious, and this defendant will justifiably serve a significant period of time in federal prison. Our office appreciates the hard work of the FBI and the MPD in bringing this defendant to justice.”
“The Memphis Police Department has a strong working relationship with United States Attorney Kevin Ritz’s office and the Safe Streets Task Force, as is evident in the recent arrest and charges against Mr. Rodercus Freeman. The Memphis Police Department is committed to continuing these collaborative investigations to create a safe place for all,” said Chief of Police Cerelyn J. Davis.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Memphis Police Department.
United States Attorney Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Tony Arvin and Scott Smith, who prosecuted this case, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @ WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Lake County Man Sentenced for Gun Crime and Unlawful Taking of a Bald Eagle Without a PermitRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – Jason Perkins, 44, of Tiptonville, has been sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and the unlawful taking of a bald eagle. United States Attorney Kevin Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to United States Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, on March 21, 2021, United States Fish and Wildlife Service Agents and Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency Officers received a report of a bald eagle carcass in Tiptonville, Tennessee. Through witness interviews and the execution of search warrants on Perkins’s home and his father’s home, officers determined that Perkins shot the bald eagle and that he was previously convicted of felony offenses. A 12-gauge shotgun and .357 handgun possessed by Perkins were recovered.
United States Attorney Ritz stated, “The bald eagle has been a symbol of our country since 1782. This defendant, a felon, shot and killed one of these great birds—violating federal law in the process. I appreciate the federal, state, and local partners who worked to bring him to justice.”
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement, Atlanta, GA Special Agent in Charge, Stephen Clark stated, “United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, is committed to working collaboratively with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. The illegal taking of a bald eagle is a violation of numerous federal statutes and will be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We will continue to work closely with our state partners to conduct these criminal investigations.”
United States District Judge J. Daniel Breen sentenced Perkins to 24 months in federal prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked former Assistant United States Attorney Matt Wilson and Assistant United States Attorney Christie Hopper who prosecuted this case, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @ WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Former Methodist Hospital Employees Plead Guilty to HIPAA ViolationsRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Five former Methodist Hospital Employees and Roderick Harvey, 41, of Memphis, have pled guilty to unlawfully disclosing patient information in violation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, commonly known as “HIPAA.” United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the guilty pleas today.
According to United States Attorney Ritz and the information presented in court, between November 2017 and December 2020, Harvey paid Kirby Dandridge, 38, Sylvia Taylor, 43, Kara Thompson, 31, Melanie Russell, 41, and Adrianna Taber, 26, to provide him with names and phone numbers of Methodist patients who had been involved in motor vehicle accidents. After obtaining the information, Harvey sold the information to third persons including personal injury attorneys and chiropractors.
HIPAA was enacted by Congress in 1996 to create national standards to protect sensitive patient information from being disclosed without a patient’s knowledge or consent. HIPAA’s provisions make it a crime to disclose patient information, or to obtain patient information with the intent to sell, transfer or use such information for personal gain.
On April 21, 2023, Harvey appeared before United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker and entered a guilty plea to conspiring with Dandridge, Taylor, Taber, Thompson, and Russell to violate HIPAA. Harvey faces a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment, a fine of $250,000 and three years of supervised release. Sentencing for Harvey is set for August 1, 2023.
Dandridge, Taylor, Taber, Thompson, and Russell previously entered guilty pleas to disclosing the information to Harvey in violation of HIPAA. Each of those violations carries a maximum penalty of one year imprisonment, a $50,000 fine, and one-year of supervised release.
Sentencing hearings for Dandridge, Taylor, Taber, Thompson, and Russell are scheduled before United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker as follows:
• Dandridge – April 25, 2023
• Taylor – May 17, 2023
• Taber – May 25, 2023
• Thompson – May 2, 2023
• Russell – June 21, 2023
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Carroll L. André III is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @ WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Department of Justice Commemorates National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – The Department of Justice’s Office of Victims of Crime (“OVC”) and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee, will join communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and celebrating victims’ rights, protections, and services. This year’s observance takes place April 23-29, 2023, and features the theme, “Survivor voices: Elevate. Engage. Effect Change.”
Each year in April, the Department of Justice and United States Attorney’s Offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. According to a report from the Bureau of Justice Statistics, in 2021, there were more than 4.6 million violent victimizations and 11.7 million property crimes.
The United States Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. In 1981, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and right of victims of crime.
Here, in the Western District of Tennessee, we have a dedicated Victim Witness Coordinator who supports federal crime victims by providing victims with essential services, including referrals to counseling, securing temporary housing, assisting with access to victim’s compensation funds, and accompanying victims to court proceedings to provide support and guidance. These services provide victims with tools to reshape their futures.
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of the art knowledge and practices across the United States, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime-fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter partnerships with these officers. National Crime Victims’ Rights Week resources can be found at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/.
More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @ WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Drug Enforcement Administration Announces Spring Take Back DayRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – The Drug Enforcement Administration has announced the date of its 24th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. On Saturday, April 22, DEA, and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs.
For more than a decade, DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medications—those that are old, unwanted, or expired—that too often become a gateway to addiction.
Take Back Day offers free and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at more than 4,000 local drop-off locations nationwide.
What: National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
When: Saturday, April 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time
Who: State and local law enforcement partners across Kentucky, Tennessee, and West Virginia
Where: For a complete list of collection sites, visit www.DEATakeBack.com
In Memphis, the “Street Team for Overdose Prevention” (S.T.O.P.), a collaboration of several agencies, encourage citizens to turn in unused medications safely and anonymously at 2811 Clarke Road.
In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed more than 8,300 tons of medication from circulation since its inception.
Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.
To find a collection site near you, visit www.DEATakeBack.com.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @ WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Readout of United States Attorney Kevin Ritz’s Roundtable Discussions throughout West TennesseeRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – This week, United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz traveled to multiple counties and state Judicial Districts in West Tennessee to host a series of roundtable discussions with law enforcement, local prosecutors, and community stakeholders. These visits focused on the 24th, 26th, and 27th Judicial Districts in West Tennessee. Roundtable participants had an open dialogue with the U.S. Attorney, addressing their issues and concerns, and learned more about the Department’s priorities.
On Monday, U.S. Attorney Ritz met in Camden with partners and stakeholders in Benton, Carroll, Decatur, Hardin, and Henry Counties in the 24th Judicial District to address issues and community concerns.
On Tuesday morning, WBBJ-TV reporter Ryan Hodges interviewed U.S. Attorney Ritz about the mission of the roundtable discussions, his priorities, and violent crime issues. As U.S. Attorney said during the interview, “in Memphis, Jackson, and all of West Tennessee, communities are reeling from gun violence and violent crime. Addressing this violence is a top priority. We focus our efforts on the most significant drivers of violence.”
Tuesday afternoon, U.S. Attorney Ritz met in Martin with officials from Obion and Weakley Counties in the 27th Judicial District.
The district-wide visit concluded on Wednesday, when U.S. Attorney Ritz facilitated a roundtable discussion in the 26th Judicial District with officials from Chester, Henderson, and Madison Counties. He also addressed members of the Jackson Rotary Club as their keynote speaker.
Below are photos from these events. U.S. Attorney Ritz will continue to schedule roundtable discussions with stakeholders throughout the Western District of Tennessee.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @ WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz in Benton County, Tennessee to host inaugural series of roundtable discussions. United States Attorney Ritz interviewed by WBBJ-TV Reporter Ryan Hodges. U.S. Attorney Ritz, along with AUSA Vic Ivy and District Attorney General Jody Pickens, facilitated roundtable discussion with law enforcement from the 26th Judicial District. U.S. Attorney Ritz addressed the members of the Jackson Rotary Club.United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee Commemorates Sexual Assault Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – United States Attorney Kevin Ritz joins the United States Department of Justice, the
Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), advocates, survivors, victim service providers, justice
professionals, police, first responders, and communities across the United States in commemorating
Sexual Assault Awareness Month.April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). Every April, we rededicate our efforts to ending
sexual assault, believing survivors, strengthening prevention and education efforts, and holding
offenders accountable.
U.S. Attorney Ritz said: “The impact of sexual assault can reverberate through an entire community.
The crime leaves lasting harm and trauma on survivors, their families, friends, and can impact
their schools and workplaces. As federal prosecutors, we have a responsibility to the citizens
throughout the Western District of Tennessee to pursue accountability and justice for crimes of
sexual violence.”
SAAM is a reminder of the importance of creating supportive environments and teaching young people
ways to prevent sexual violence – including bystander intervention and mobilizing men and boys as
allies. It is especially critical to reach young people with information and resources about sexual
violence because over 80 percent of rape survivors report that they were first raped before age 25.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 33.5 million
women and 4.5 million men are the victims of completed or attempted rape in their lifetime, and
many more experience other forms of sexual violence. The CDC estimates more than half of women and
nearly one third of men are victims of contact sexual violence in their lifetimes. Sexual violence
can have a lasting impact on survivors, ranging from physical injury to mental health, to fear and
safety concerns, to lifelong effects on financial and housing stability, employment, and educational attainment.###
For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @ WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Unveils New Initiative for Area Youth to Identify, Report and Prevent Hate CrimesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced that the United States Attorney’s
Office for the Western District of Tennessee has launched a series of presentations in district
high schools aimed at educating students on identifying, reporting, and preventing hate crimes and
other civil rights violations.This effort is part of the Department of Justice’s United Against Hate Program, developed by its
Hate Crimes Enforcement and Prevention Initiative. Today, attorneys from the U.S. Attorney’s
Office, the Assistant Special Agent in Charge from the FBI, and officers from the Memphis Police
Department’s Office of Community Policing launched the local program at Central High School in
Memphis and plan to visit additional schools in 2023.“Civil rights enforcement is a priority of the United States Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney
Ritz. “Ensuring that our citizens, even the young ones, understand the law and how to report what
they believe are civil rights violations or hate crimes is essential. Our goal is to equip Memphis
youth with the tools to recognize hate crimes or discrimination when it happens and with what steps
they should take afterward.”“Hate crimes have a devastating impact not just on the victims and their families, but communities
as well,” said Douglas DePodesta, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of
Investigation’s Memphis Field Office. “The FBI has been engaged in a nationwide effort to build
awareness and encourage individuals to report violations and will continue to do so through the
United Against Hate program and other platforms. We want everyone, including students, to
understand that if they encounter what they believe is a hate crime that the FBI is here to investigate.”If your school is interested in hosting a United Against Hate presentation, contact our office.
This interactive presentation is best for audiences under 100 students, though we
are happy to discuss your school’s unique needs.To learn more about the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Rights Program, or to file a complaint with
our office, visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/civil-rights- program.To report a possible hate crime, call your local law enforcement or 1-800-CALL FBI.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @ WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Nurse Practitioner Convicted of Opioid Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A federal jury convicted a Tennessee nurse practitioner last week for illegally prescribing opioids – including oxycodone and fentanyl – from his medical practice.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Jeffrey Young, 49, of Jackson, used his medical practice, Preventagenix, to illegally prescribe more than one million medically unnecessary controlled substance pills to hundreds of patients, including a pregnant woman and women with whom he was having inappropriate physical relationships. Young maintained a party-like atmosphere at his clinic, and prescribed these drugs at least in part to boost his popularity on social media and promote a self-produced reality TV show pilot based on his self-identified persona, the “Rock Doc.”
Young was convicted of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute controlled substances, maintaining a drug-involved premises, and 13 counts of distributing controlled substances, six of which involved distribution to a pregnant woman. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 3 and faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison for each count involving distribution to a pregnant woman, and 20 years in prison for each of the other counts of conviction. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Kevin G. Ritz for the Western District of Tennessee, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Director David Rausch of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
The DEA and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, with valuable assistance from the Jackson Police Department.
Assistant Chief Kate Payerle and Trial Attorney Drew Pennebaker of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case with significant assistance from Jillian Willis and Dermot Lynch.
The Fraud Section leads the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force. Since its inception in late 2018, ARPO has partnered with federal and state law enforcement agencies and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout Alabama, Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia, Tennessee, and West Virginia to prosecute medical professionals and others involved in the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids. Over the past four years, ARPO has charged over 115 defendants, collectively responsible for issuing prescriptions for over 115 million controlled substance dosage units. To date, more than 70 ARPO defendants have been convicted. More information can be found at https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Nurse Practitioner Convicted of Opioid Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A federal jury convicted a Tennessee nurse practitioner last week for illegally prescribing opioids – including oxycodone and fentanyl – from his medical practice.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Jeffrey Young, 49, of Jackson, used his medical practice, Preventagenix, to illegally prescribe more than one million medically unnecessary controlled substance pills to hundreds of patients, including a pregnant woman and women with whom he was having inappropriate physical relationships. Young maintained a party-like atmosphere at his clinic, and prescribed these drugs at least in part to boost his popularity on social media and promote a self-produced reality TV show pilot based on his self-identified persona, the “Rock Doc.”
Young was convicted of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute controlled substances, maintaining a drug-involved premises, and 13 counts of distributing controlled substances, six of which involved distribution to a pregnant woman. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 3 and faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison for each count involving distribution to a pregnant woman, and 20 years in prison for each of the other counts of conviction. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Kevin G. Ritz for the Western District of Tennessee, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Director David Rausch of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
The DEA and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, with valuable assistance from the Jackson Police Department.
Assistant Chief Kate Payerle and Trial Attorney Drew Pennebaker of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case with significant assistance from Jillian Willis and Dermot Lynch.
The Fraud Section leads the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force. Since its inception in late 2018, ARPO has partnered with federal and state law enforcement agencies and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout Alabama, Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia, Tennessee, and West Virginia to prosecute medical professionals and others involved in the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids. Over the past four years, ARPO has charged over 115 defendants, collectively responsible for issuing prescriptions for over 115 million controlled substance dosage units. To date, more than 70 ARPO defendants have been convicted. More information can be found at https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Memphis Man Sentenced to over 11 Years for Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Davione Smith, 21, of Memphis, has been sentenced to 135 months in federal prison for distributing approximately 2 kilograms of fentanyl. United States Attorney Kevin Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to United States Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, Smith distributed fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine around Memphis. Investigators identified at least eight individuals who purchased narcotics from Smith for the purpose of re-distribution.
In May 2022, Smith along with the co-defendants were indicted.
Smith pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
Today, United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker sentenced Smith to 135 months imprisonment to be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This prosecution is part of an investigation conducted by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking organizations and organized criminal enterprises, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
This case was investigated by the DEA, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Bartlett Police Department.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Kimbril-Parks who prosecuted this case, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @ WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Florida Man Sentenced to Six Years for Transporting Narcotics on a Memphis Bound AirplaneRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Rashid James-Wooten, 29, formerly of Florida, has been sentenced to 72 months in
federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. United States Attorney Kevin R.
Ritz announced the sentence today.According to United States Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, on September 8, 2021,
detectives with the Memphis Police Department’s Organized Crime Unit received information that
narcotics were possibly on a flight from Los Angeles to Memphis. Investigators used a drug-sniffing
dog, which gave a positive alert on a suitcase that was owned by Rashid James-Wooten.A search of the suitcase revealed 996 grams of fentanyl, 4,472 grams of
methamphetamine, and 1,220 grams of marijuana. James-Wooten was placed into custody after
inquiring at baggage claim about his lost luggage.James-Wooten pled guilty to the offense.
United States District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr., sentenced James-Wooten to six years’
imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the
federal system.This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task
Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug
trafficking organizations and organized criminal enterprises, targeting national and regional level
drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and
resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.This case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department Organized Crime Unit, the Drug
Enforcement Administration, Memphis Airport Police, and United States Customs
and Border Protection.United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Kimbril-Parks,
who prosecuted this case, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case.###
For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.Former Memphis Attorney Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Former Memphis attorney, Leigh M. Chiles, 49, pled guilty in connection with a scheme to defraud an estate over which she was appointed to serve as executrix. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the guilty plea today.
According to U.S. Attorney Ritz, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Chiles in July 2022. Based on the charges and information presented in court today, Chiles, currently of Little Rock, Arkansas, appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Annie T. Christoff and entered a guilty plea to one count of wire fraud.
In September 2018, Chiles was appointed to serve as executrix over an estate opened in Shelby County Probate Court. In connection with her duties Chiles was responsible for collecting estate assets and distributing them to heirs and beneficiaries. In violation of her fiduciary duty, Chiles used approximately $124,000 in estate funds to write checks to herself and to pay her personal credit card between November 2018 and June 2019.
A sentencing hearing is currently set before United States District Judge John T. Fowlkes, Jr. on July 17, 2023, where Chiles faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Carroll L. André III is prosecuting this case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
West Tennessee Man Sentenced to 35 Years for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – Preston Antwan McNeal, 36, of Jackson, Tennessee, was found guilty on four counts of a seven-count indictment and sentenced to 35 years for trafficking methamphetamine. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to U.S. Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, from 2016 to 2019, McNeal formed, and was the leader, of a large methamphetamine trafficking operation in West Tennessee. In 2017, as the Lexington Police Department conducted a traffic stop on McNeal’s vehicle, he threw a bag containing 44 grams of methamphetamine, 16 grams of cocaine, and one gram of crack cocaine into a nearby yard. A total of $1,281 in cash, a drug ledger, and a digital scale were found in the car.
In 2019, the Chester County Sheriff’s Department arrested McNeal at a traffic stop. The deputy searched the vehicle and found a baggie under the driver’s seat containing 14.3 grams of methamphetamine, plus $3,000 in cash in the front passenger floorboard. A total of 57.34 grams of methamphetamine was recovered. The passenger of the car testified at trial that McNeal gave her four baggies of methamphetamine to hide on her person. One of McNeal’s co-conspirators also testified that from late 2017 until February 2019, McNeal provided the witness with over 5 kilograms of methamphetamine for redistribution.
United States District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced McNeal to 420 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Lexington Police Department, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Davis and Josh Morrow, who prosecuted this case for the government, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates
Three Alleged Gang Members Indicted for Murder in Aid of RacketeeringRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A superseding indictment has been returned by a federal grand jury charging three men, Michael Hobson, 30, and Tomarcus Baskerville, 34, of Somerville, Tennessee, and Christopher Peeler, 31, of Moscow, Tennessee, with committing murder in aid of racketeering and causing death using a firearm. The charges arise from a 2015 Hardeman County murder.
“This is another great example of the diligent work of the law enforcement community to rid our communities of the violence that gang members inflict upon our citizens. This indictment should serve as notice that we will use every available resource to bring those who engage in organized crime to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz.
“We applaud the diligent and thorough work of our special agents and law enforcement partners and are grateful for the continued work of the U.S. Attorney in ensuring the individuals responsible for this deadly and devastating string of organized crime, throughout West Tennessee, will be held accountable for every criminal act they have committed,” said TBI Director David Rausch.
According to U.S. Attorney Ritz, as well as the charges and information presented in court, in 2022, a federal grand jury indicted 14 alleged members and associates of the Traveling Vice Lord/Junk Yard Dog gang on various racketeering charges, including murder, attempted murders, and narcotic trafficking. This superseding indictment adds charges for a second murder and includes Michael Hobson as an alleged gang member and offender.
The indictment includes charges for six separate shootings, two murders, and four attempted murders in Hardeman County. As a result of these crimes, nine individuals were shot, and two of those victims died. Each of the defendants are being detained.
The RICO conspiracy charge carries a maximum sentence of life. The charge of murder in aid of racketeering charge carries a sentence of life imprisonment. Each of the acts of brandishing and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence carries a penalty of not less than 10 years consecutive to its related attempted murder (Violent Crime in Aid in Racketeering).
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department, and the Hardeman County Sheriff’s Department.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment only contains charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Assistant United States Attorneys Neal Oldham and Beth Boswell are prosecuting the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Former Major League Baseball Player and Co-Conspirator Convicted of Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Paul Seib, age 46 and a Canadian citizen, was convicted of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 5 kilograms of cocaine after a four-day federal jury trial. In the same case, former professional baseball player Luther Hackman, 48, pled guilty to money laundering and conspiring to distribute cocaine.
According to U.S. Attorney Ritz, the charges, and information presented in court, in October 2021 investigators with Homeland Security Investigations received information that “Pablo” was in search of multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine for his clients. After a series of communications, investigators identified Seib as “Pablo” and arranged a meeting to transfer 10 kilograms of cocaine. Both Seib and Hackman were present during this meeting; however, the transfer did not occur because the individual responsible for paying for the narcotics did not arrive.
In January 2022, Hackman provided a confidential source with $96,800 in cash and told the source about a shipment of multiple kilograms of cocaine and methamphetamine coming from California. Investigators intercepted the 20 pounds of methamphetamine and 4 kilograms of cocaine and detained Hackman as he arrived to pick up the shipment.
The sentencing hearing for Hackman is set for June 7, 2023, and Seib on July 12, 2023, both before United States District Judge Mark S. Norris.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking organizations and organized criminal enterprises, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Musselwhite and Joe Murphy, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at 901-544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Two Men Indicted for Series of Holiday Carjackings and KidnappingsRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A federal grand jury has returned a superseding indictment charging Adrian Pegues,
19, and Malik Malone, 18, both of Memphis, with multiple charges arising from a series of violent
events that occurred in late December 2022 in Memphis and Germantown. The indictment includes
charges of kidnapping, bank robbery, carjacking, and the use of a firearm during a crime of
violence. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the charges today.According to U.S. Attorney Ritz, the charges and other information presented in court, it is
alleged that that on December 20, 2022, Pegues and Malone carjacked and kidnapped two individuals
separately, forced one of the individuals to withdraw money from an ATM, and attempted to do the
same with the other. It is also alleged that, ten days later, on December 30, 2022, the two men
attempted to kidnap a person in Germantown with the intent to commit another robbery. That
kidnapping was unsuccessful.Both men have been arrested and are in federal custody and awaiting arraignment on the superseding indictment.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Germantown Police Department.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment is an accusation and only contains charges.
The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Assistant United States Attorney Greg Wagner is handling the prosecution of this matter
for the government.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Former Benton County Coach and Youth Pastor Sentenced to 45 Years for Exploiting ChildrenRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Joshua Henley, 34, formerly of Benton County, has been sentenced to 45 years in
federal prison for producing sexually explicit images of a minor, transporting, and possessing
child exploitation material, and transporting a minor interstate with the intent to engage in
sexual activity. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentence today.According to the information presented in court, from 2017 until April 2021, Henley was the pastor
at Holladay Church of Christ and coached the girls’ basketball team at Holladay Elementary. In
April 2021, Henley left Benton County to become the youth pastor at a church in Indiana. In June
2021, Henley returned to Benton County and transported a teen to Indiana under the guise that she
was to assist at his new parish. Instead, Henley sexually assaulted the teen. Henley was arrested
as he was driving her back to Tennessee.At the time of Henley’s arrest, he had a cell phone which contained sexually explicit images and
videos of two other Tennessee teenagers with which he had contact through SnapChat and FaceTime.
The teens each disclosed that Henley also engaged in sexual activity with them.Henley has worked with young people in other states including Oklahoma and Texas.
United States District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Henley to 540 months in federal prison to
be followed by ten years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.This case was investigated by the FBI’s Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Benton County
Sheriff’s Department, the Evansville Police Department and TBI’s Technical Service Unit.United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Debra Ireland and
Lauren Delery, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners
who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901)
544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news
and updates.West Tennessee Man Sentenced to 14 Years for Methamphetamine PossessionRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – Jonathan Wayne Green, 41, of Holladay, Tennessee, has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for possession of over 50 grams of actual methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to the information presented in court, on April 16, 2019, an officer with the Camden Police Department responded to a trespassing complaint in a restricted area at Camden General Hospital. The officer observed a pickup truck which matched the description from the complaint. After the truck drove into a nearby McDonald’s parking lot, the officer conducted a traffic stop.
The driver, Jonathan Wayne Green, appeared to be nervous while talking with the officer and confessed that he was on state probation and that he had a large amount of methamphetamine in the backseat of his truck. A search of the truck revealed over a pound of methamphetamine (which was individually wrapped in three separate smaller bags inside of a larger Ziplock bag), cash, and drug paraphernalia. Green admitted to selling methamphetamine earlier that night.
United States District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Green to 168 months' imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Camden Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Josh Morrow, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Brothers Convicted of Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Today, a federal jury convicted brothers Julio Garcia, 42, and Juan Garcia, 38, of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the guilty verdict.
According to information presented in court, in 2019, investigators with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) began investigating the drug trafficking activities of the brothers. Julio Garcia was serving a 10-year federal sentence at the time for another drug offense and while in custody he used contraband phones to continue his drug trafficking activities.
Juan Garcia, who was not in custody, served as a “middle-man.” He was tasked with, among other things, accepting payments for shipments of narcotics and depositing the money from those payments into various bank accounts. During this conspiracy, investigators were able to seize two shipments, each containing over 1 kilogram of methamphetamine.
Julio Garcia is scheduled to be sentenced on June 27, 2023, and Juan Garcia is scheduled to be sentenced on June 28, 2023, both before United States District Judge Mark S. Norris. Both men face not less than 10 years imprisonment, not more than life, not more than a $10,000,000 fine, and not less than five years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the Desoto County Sheriff’s Department.
This prosecution, as well as the previous investigation into Julio Garcia, is part of an investigation conducted by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking organizations and organized criminal enterprises, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Greg Allen and Michelle Kimbril-Parks, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
###
For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to over 11 Years for Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm and Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – Cassius Sinclair Jordan, 38, of Huntingdon, Tennessee has been sentenced to over 11
years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of
methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the
sentence today.According to the information presented in court, on May 28, 2020, at approximately 12:30 a.m., an
officer with the Huntingdon Police Department observed a vehicle parked with the rear of the
vehicle in the roadway. As the officer approached the vehicle, he observed the driver laying across
the steering wheel as if he was asleep. The officer awakened the driver and identified him as the
defendant, Cassius Sinclair Jordan.The officer observed a glass pipe and a cigarette lighter in Jordan’s hands and directed him to
exit the vehicle, at which time he was detained. A search of the vehicle revealed the following:• A Smith and Wesson .40 caliber handgun, which was loaded with nine rounds
• An additional 12 .40 caliber rounds of ammunition
• A bag containing approximately 93 grams of methamphetamine
• A bag containing 41 Xanax tablets
• A bag containing 14.2 grams of marijuana
• $7,285.75 in cash
• A box of baggies
• Digital scalesAccording to the laboratory report issued by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the
methamphetamine seized from Jordan's vehicle tested positive for methamphetamine
hydrochloride with a net weight of 93.89 grams and a purity level of
97%.A special agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) examined
Jordan's firearm and ammunition and determined that the firearm and ammunition were manufactured
outside the state of Tennessee.On February 17, 2023, the Honorable S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Jordan to a total of 140 months'
imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Judge Anderson also ordered
Jordan's federal sentence run consecutive to a state sentence that Jordan is presently serving
following his convictions for aggravated kidnapping and aggravated assault with a weapon in Carroll
County in 2019. While Jordan could be paroled from his current state sentence, there is no parole
in the federal system.This case was investigated by the Huntingdon Police Department, the ATF and DEA.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Josh Morrow, who
prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.###
For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Readout of Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta’s Trip to MemphisRead the Press Release
Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta traveled to Memphis today to attend the investiture of U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz for the Western District of Tennessee and meet with local Memphis officials and community leaders.
Associate Attorney General Gupta met with Mayor Jim Strickland and Police Chief C.J. Davis to discuss the city’s request for assistance from the CRI-TAC initiative, funded by the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) as well as the city’s response to the tragic death of Tyre Nichols. The Justice Department’s ongoing federal criminal civil rights investigation into the death of Tyre Nichols is being handled jointly by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee, the Civil Rights Division and the FBI.
In a meeting with two dozen local faith and community leaders, the Associate Attorney General heard from local leaders about the need for fair policing, as well as their efforts on the ground to support those most at risk of becoming intertwined with the criminal justice system. She discussed the department’s programs, including those that support police community trust and community violence intervention efforts, and the department’s ongoing efforts to make grant funding more accessible to local community groups.
In the afternoon, Western District of Tennessee District Judge S. Thomas Anderson presided over the investiture of U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz. Associate Attorney General Gupta spoke at the ceremony, along with former U.S. Attorney Edward L. Stanton III and the Honorable Julia S. Gibbons of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, for whom U.S. Attorney Ritz served as a law clerk. The investiture was attended by several federal district and court of appeals judges, as well as local law enforcement and community leaders and elected officials.
Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta with U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz and community leaders Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta (front center), U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz (front left), First Assistant U.S. Attorney Reagan Fondren (front right) and staff from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of TennesseeInvestiture Remarks by Kevin G. RitzRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Good afternoon. Thank you so much for being here.
As you might expect, I’d like to start by thanking some people. I want to express my deepest
gratitude to the following.• Congressman Cohen for recommending me for this position.
• Senators Blackburn and Hagerty for their endorsement.
• President Biden for nominating me, and the Senate for confirming me.
• My past and present colleagues at the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Each and every one of you has made
me the attorney and person I am today. I especially want to thank those who helped put this event
together. Special thanks to the Stax Music Academy, which features the son of our First Assistant
U.S. Attorney Reagan Fondren.• Thank you to the judges, defense attorneys, clerk’s office, pretrial and probation officers, and
everyone else who makes up the legal ecosystem of the Western District of Tennessee. I feel very
lucky to have built my career as a federal lawyer in this district.• Thank you to previous U.S. Attorneys, and all my previous supervisors, who have helped shape my
skills and career. There are too many to name, but I have to single out two: Judge Gibbons and Ed
Stanton. Both gave me tremendous opportunities along the way, and both have served as mentors and
role models.• Thank you to Associate Attorney General Gupta for her kind words, for traveling to Memphis, and
for sharing insight into the good work that the Department is doing.
• It is overwhelming to see so many good friends, many of whom have traveled from out of state.
Special shout out to high school classmates, friends from undergraduate years, friends from
graduate school, and friends from my first-year small section in law school. I also see several
valued DOJ colleagues from other districts. I am so thankful for all of you and humbled by your
presence. Special thanks to Courtnay, Ted, and Michael, who are part of the program today.• There are also many members of my extended family here who mean so much me, including aunts and
uncles, my wife’s family, and my sister and her family. Thanks to my nephew for leading us in the
pledge.• I want to thank my parents, to whom I owe so much, but especially for instilling in me a
commitment to public service in this city.• Finally I want to thank my wife and best friend Anna, who was kind enough to give her blessing
to this endeavor. Thank you for your love and support.It’s the honor of my life to accept this appointment. Some of you know me very well. Some of you
know me pretty well. Some of you don’t know me well at all.So allow me to reintroduce myself. I am a Memphian. I grew up in this city. I’m a product of
Memphis City Schools. In fact, 33 years ago, in ninth grade, I came down to this very room. The
City Council was trying to pass an ordinance banning “harmful material” at concerts. This was
after a particularly colorful performance by Motley Crue at the Coliseum.I wasn’t at that concert, but I liked concerts and thought this was a bad idea. So, I rounded up a
couple of friends, and my mom drove the three of us down here in her minivan. She dropped us off
over here on Adams. I came in here and addressed the council. I remember the Councilman who was
sponsoring the ordinance ignored me.There are a couple of lessons there. One, elected officials might want to at least act like they
are listening to constituents. You never know when the kid you ignored is going to grow up to be
the U.S. Attorney.The bigger lesson for me was that maybe Memphis could use some more good public servants. So, after
I went away for college, graduate school, and law school, I chose to come home to Memphis and start
my legal career here. I’ve chosen to stay every day for almost two decades. I’ve also chosen public
service as a career.Public service—in particular federal public service—defines me. For my whole adult life, even
before law school, I’ve worked for the United States government. And I’m proud to say that the
United States is the only client I’ve ever had.Before I talk about what it means to me to represent the United States every day, I first want to
step back and take stock of this particular moment. Over the past few years we’ve experienced a
lot. A pandemic that has killed more than a million Americans. A violent attack, perpetrated by
fellow citizens, on our seat of government. An unacceptable increase in gun violence. The longest
federal government shutdown in history. A long-overdue reckoning with racism in the criminal justice system. And finally, just
recently, the tragic death of a young man in Memphis – a tragedy that is leading to an even deeper
reckoning, here and elsewhere.That’s a lot to navigate for someone who takes on this type of role. But, no excuses. I’m ready to go.
I’m going to talk about three things. What we do, how we go about it, and my priorities.
First, what we do. In the U.S. Attorney’s Office, my colleagues and I uphold the rule of law,
protect civil rights, and keep Americans safe.A key principle underlying our work is there is only one rule of law. There can’t be one for the
powerful and another for the powerless. There can’t be one for the rich and another for the poor.
And there can’t be one for people who look like me and another for people of color.Justice, for me, is about upholding that one rule of law. In criminal cases, it can mean sending
someone to prison, sometimes for a long time.But you should know that justice, for me, is about more than putting people in prison. For me, it’s
also about who votes and how hard it is to cast that vote. It’s about where pipelines or bus routes
go. Justice is about whether people in all zip codes can get a loan. Whether women have access to
health care. Whether citizens have affordable housing or clean drinking water.Sometimes those are Department of Justice issues. Sometimes they’re not. But for me, they are all
“justice” issues.That being said, much of my office’s day-to-day work involves criminal cases. Seeking just
punishment for those who have broken the law. A few principles guide us in this work.We make decisions based on the law and the facts.
We treat people equally and fairly, while still making an individualized assessment of each case.
We focus our efforts on the most serious cases that implicate substantial federal interests.
Along those lines, what we do is qualitatively and quantitatively different than what state
prosecutors do. And the number of prosecutions is not an end in and of itself. Making the community
safer is the goal.These principles are easy to articulate but hard to put into practice. My faith tradition makes
room for both accountability and redemption. I agree with Bryan Stevenson that every person is more
than the worst thing he has done. However, sometimes people deserve severe punishment for the
worst thing they’ve done. We don’t apologize for seeking significant punishment where warranted.
The point is if you’re doing this job right, it can be hard to sort all that out and decide on the
right way to proceed in any particular case.Which brings me to the second thing I want to talk about: how we go about our work.
I bring some relevant experience to this job. Almost 18 years in this office, and a lifetime of
being a rule-follower. That’s why this career has suited me. I like rules, I like following them,
and it turns out I’m good at enforcing rules. After 12 years as Appellate Chief, I know the
relevant rules pretty well.The bad news for anyone who isn’t following those rules is I don’t care who you are. You can be
behind a computer, on a street corner, or in a boardroom. It doesn’t matter to me. You break
federal law and we will come after you and pull no punches.But I can’t do it alone. There are two groups of people I am already relying on heavily. The first
are our partners in federal, state, and local law enforcement. These folks face risks every day
that most of us can’t fathom. I am proud to work with these public servants. When officers do their
job the right way, it is right to call them heroes. I’ll also say that backing the blue, for me,
includes backing not only state and local partners, but also all the federal agencies that are
working hard to enforce federal laws.The second group of people I rely on heavily are the dedicated federal public servants in the U.S.
Attorney’s Office. I want every current employee of my office to stand up and be recognized.[APPLAUSE]
It’s a privilege to work with you all. One reason I agreed to be a candidate for this job was I
already knew my team. We’re one of the biggest law firms in West Tennessee. I think we’re the best.
We have two offices, covering 22 counties. We don’t just prosecute criminal cases. We represent
the United States in all types of civil litigation. We collect debts for the U.S. Treasury. We
handle our own appellate and post- conviction dockets. It’s a lot.The Assistant U.S. Attorneys and support staff who carry out these responsibilities are
hardworking. They are experienced. They are smart. I’ve worked with these folks for almost 18
years. As long as I am in charge I will listen to them, rely on them, and stick up for them.Ida B. Wells said—just after being forcibly exiled from this city—that “The way to right wrongs is
to turn the light of truth upon them.” My team works hard to right wrongs by seeking the light of
truth. By seeking justice. Whenever you hear someone complain about the federal government for
whatever reason—just know that every day your life is better, and your family is safer, because of
federal employees like my colleagues in the U.S. Attorney’s Office.The last thing I want to talk about are my priorities. We have a lot on our plate.
In Memphis, Jackson, and all of West Tennessee, communities are reeling from violent crime.
Addressing this violence is a top priority. We are continuing our robust efforts prosecuting
federal carjacking, robbery, and firearm cases. We focus our efforts on the most significant
drivers of violence. We also are taking a hard look at the supply side of the gun violence problem:
where these crime guns are coming from, and how they are getting into the wrong hands. And we are
coupling enforcement of these laws with prevention and intervention efforts.We spend a lot of time prosecuting drug trafficking organizations. Unfortunately, West Tennessee is
a distribution center not only for legal goods, but illegal goods too. Our law enforcement partners
are seizing large amounts of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin, among other lethal drugs. These
drugs—especially fentanyl—are affecting every cross-section of our community. For us it’s a fight to save lives.We are doubling down on our efforts in prosecuting fraud and economic crimes. We’ve brought several
new cases in this area in the last few months, including cases involving fraud on pandemic relief
programs.Finally, even before the events of last month, I had asked my team how we could better protect
national security and civil rights in West Tennessee. This is a top priority of mine. We are
vigorously enforcing civil rights and hate crimes statutes.A related issue is the rise in domestic terrorism and political violence in this country. From
Charleston to Charlottesville to Pittsburgh to El Paso to Buffalo—the threat of hate-based and
extremist violence is real. My oath commands me to protect our country from threats foreign and
domestic. I’m going to do that.This is a mission that dates to the Department’s founding. A hundred and fifty years ago there were
people in this area of the country who were seeking to deny the promises of the Second Founding and
the Reconstruction Amendments to Black Americans.The Department was created to counter those violent extremists and protect civil rights for all.
Attorney General Garland has said it’s in the Department’s DNA. I agree, and we will pursue
accountability for anyone who tramples on other people’s civil rights or uses violence to achieve
political ends.Those are just some of the areas where we’re directing our efforts. It’s a non-exhaustive list.
Upholding the rule of law necessarily means that we don’t focus only on one set of crimes. We carry
a diverse portfolio, and we will not hesitate to use the full scope of the tools Congress has given us.So that is what we do, how we do it, and a little about our priorities. Through it all, the only
thing that will motivate me every hour of every day is what is best for my client, the United
States of America.I’ll end where I started, both today and in life: the City of Memphis. Our office serves one and a
half million people in 22 counties, and I take that responsibility seriously. I’ll be visiting many
of those counties in the near future.
But this city, where we are today, is not just where I live, it’s my home. My wife and I love it
here. As I said recently, I want the City of Memphis to be a place where justice is done. That’s
the animating principle of my career.One of my heroes sings about “a promised land.” For me, the work that we do to uphold the rule of
law, protect civil rights, and keep Americans safe in Memphis and West Tennessee, is my own way of
seeking a piece of that “promised land.”
I promise I’ll give it everything I have. Thank you again for being here today.
###For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Memphis Man Sentenced to 13 Years for Carjacking and Illegal Possession of a Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Kedric Reese, 21, has been sentenced to 13 years in federal prison for carjacking, discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence and illegal possession of a stolen firearm. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to the information presented in court, on May 24, 2021, Memphis Police Officers responded to a carjacking at River Grove apartments. The victim advised officers that while traveling in a rental car, she stopped near Warford and Jackson Avenue to send a text message, when two occupants in a white Impala drove up next to her. The men approached the car and demanded she take them to River Grove apartments.
One of the men, Kedric Reese, brandished a gun that was visible to the victim. Afraid for her safety, the victim complied with their request. When they arrived, Reese pointed the gun at the victim and made her get out of the car. As she did so, the victim yelled at Reese, "I know what you look like!" Reese then fired a shot directly at the victim.
The rental car company tracked the vehicle to a residence on Rio Lobo in Memphis, Tennessee. Reese who was in possession of the stolen car and a stolen SAR 9mm pistol, was placed into custody. The gun was loaded with 12 rounds in the magazine and 1 round in the chamber.
The victim identified Reese as the man who shot at her and stole her rental car.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Memphis Police Department.
On February 14, 2023, United States Chief Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Reese to 157 months in federal prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Raney Irwin, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Memphis Man Convicted of Several Armed Robberies and Conspiracy to Commit Four AdditionalRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – After a six-day jury trial, Randy Readus, 36, has been convicted of conspiracy to commit robbery, two counts of aiding and abetting robbery, one count of aiding and abetting attempted robbery, and one count of aiding and abetting the use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the guilty verdict today.
According to the information presented in court, between December 2020 and January 2021, Randy Readus along with co-defendant Julius Black committed business robberies in Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. On the morning of Christmas Eve, December 24, 2020, Readus drove Black from Memphis to Marion, Arkansas, in a Black Escalade. Black entered Walmart, robbed the Money Center at gunpoint taking a large amount of cash, and fled to where Readus was waiting in the Escalade.
Readus and Black similarly robbed the following businesses:
• December 26, 2020
Walmart on Industrial Park Drive, Trumann, Arkansas
• January 6, 2021
Walmart on Mackie Drive, Holly Springs, Mississippi
• January 8, 2021
Kroger on Highway 64, Memphis, Tennessee
• December 31, 2021
Kroger on Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee
Readus drove Black to the Kroger, where Black jumped the customer service desk, forced his way into the finance room and forcibly took money.
• January 8, 2021
Kroger on Highway 70, Arlington, Tennessee – attempted to rob the Kroger but were unsuccessful.
• January 12, 2021
Walmart, New Albany, Mississippi –
FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force apprehended Readus and Black as they fled. While attempting to flee the scene in the Escalade, officers disabled the vehicle.
Julius Black pled guilty on April 5, 2022. He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 7, 2023.
Sentencing for Readus is set for June 13, 2023, before United States District Judge John T. Fowlkes, Jr.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Karen Hartridge and Greg Wagner, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Former Memphis, Tennessee, Police Officer Pleads Guilty to a Civil Rights Violation for Assaulting a Man in his CustodyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A former Memphis Police Department (MPD) officer pleaded guilty in federal court in the Western District of Tennessee to one felony count of deprivation of rights under color of law for assaulting an arrestee in January 2021.
According to the defendant’s admissions at the plea hearing, Armando Bustamante was working as an MPD officer in January 2021. While on duty, Bustamante struck a man in the head using his service weapon and his hands, without legal justification. Bustamante’s assault caused bodily injury to the man.
“This former Memphis police officer abused his authority by violently assaulting a man without basis,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Officers who willfully use excessive force without basis are not above the law and will be held accountable. Whether in Memphis or any corner of the country, the Justice Department stands ready to vigorously prosecute those law enforcement officers who defy the Constitution and violate people’s civil rights.”
“The United States cares deeply about violations of civil rights, here in Memphis and throughout America,” said U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz for the Western District of Tennessee. “The overwhelming majority of police officers do their jobs honorably and lawfully. As this case shows, we will not hesitate to hold those who violate civil rights laws to account.”
“This plea is the result of the efforts of law enforcement to ensure that any officer who violates the civil rights of those they are sworn to protect is brought to justice,” said Douglas S. DePodesta, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. “The FBI is committed to protecting the civil rights of all people and wearing a badge does not make one above the law."
Bustamante faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison and three years of supervised release. A sentencing date has been set for June 15.
Assistant Attorney General Clarke, U.S. Attorney Ritz, Assistant Director Quesada and Special Agent in Charge DePodesta made the announcement.
The FBI Memphis Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Pritchard for the Western District of Tennessee and Trial Attorney Nikhil Ramnaney of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Defendant in Drug Case Sentenced to 17.5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Jose Anastacio Osorio Diaz, a/k/a Kenneth Rodriguez, 48, from Mexico, has been sentenced to 210 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess illegal narcotics with intent to distribute. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to the information presented in court, in 2018 the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) began investigating the drug trafficking activities of Diaz, who used couriers to transport narcotics from Mexico into the Western District of Tennessee and elsewhere. One such courier was arrested in Laredo, Texas, on May 12, 2019, in possession of 3.98 kilograms of cocaine. A second courier, in possession of 976 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin and fentanyl, was arrested on July 1, 2019, in Braselton, Georgia.
On October 17, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a four-count superseding indictment against Jose Anastacio Osorio Diaz a/k/a Kenneth Rodriguez for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana with the intent to distribute.
The defendant pled guilty on May 16, 2019.
On February 14, 2023, United States District Judge Mark S. Norris sentenced Diaz to 210 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking organizations and organized criminal enterprises, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
This case was investigated by the DEA and the FBI.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Kimbril-Parks, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Memphis Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Fentanyl and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Darius Harshaw, 36, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams of fentanyl and for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to the information presented in court, in August 2021, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation jointly with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office began investigating Darius Harshaw. On September 15, 2021, officers executed a search warrant where Harshaw resided and located numerous narcotics, including 873 grams of fentanyl, a firearm, and a money counter.
As a result of his prior felony history, Harshaw is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.
Harshaw pled guilty to ownership of the narcotics and the firearm on November 7, 2022.
On February 9, 2023, United States District Judge Jon P. McCalla sentenced Harshaw to 180 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was jointly investigated by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance of ATF and the Department of Homeland Security Investigation.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Gregory Allen, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Investiture Ceremony for United States Attorney Kevin G. RitzRead the Press Release
Kevin G. Ritz will be formally installed as the 51st United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee. Nominated by President Joe Biden on July 29, 2022, Ritz was unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate on September 22, 2022. As the United States Attorney, Ritz is the chief federal law enforcement officer in West Tennessee. The Honorable S. Thomas Anderson, United States District Judge, for the Western District of Tennessee will convene the Investiture. Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta will be among those providing remarks.
DATE: Friday, February 17, 2023
TIME: 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: Memphis City Hall
City Council Chambers
125 North Main Street
Memphis, Tennessee
NOTE: Credentialed members of the media are invited to participate. Please RSVP to [email protected] or 601.961.9192.
Bartlett Man Sentenced for Solicitation of Child Pornography and Attempted Transfer of Obscene Material to a MinorRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Joel Evan Lattimer, 43, of Bartlett, TN., has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for solicitation of child pornography and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to the information presented in court, between October and November 2021, FBI undercover agents communicated with Lattimer using social networking applications, such as Whisper, Kik, and Wickr. During the investigation, the undercover agents posed as a father and his minor daughter who told Lattimer that the father frequently sexually abused his 12-year-old daughter. He requested to see photos and videos of the sexual abuse of the minor. In November, Lattimer sent the minor two videos of himself engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Lattimer pled guilty to the charges brought in a two-count Information.
On February 9, 2023, United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker sentenced Lattimer to 60 months in federal prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. The Court also assessed a $10,000 fine under the Justice for Victims Trafficking Act of 2015.
This case was investigated by the FBI Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Delery, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Statement from United States Attorney Kevin G. RitzRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Kevin G. Ritz, United States Attorney for the Western District of
Tennessee, issued the following statement today:“Last week, we announced that the United States had opened a federal civil rights investigation
into the circumstances leading to the tragic death of Tyre Nichols.Earlier this week I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Nichols's mother, father, grandmother, and
aunt. I had the privilege of hearing from them about Tyre, a young man who enjoyed skateboarding,
Starbucks, and sunsets at Shelby Farms.I would like to share with the community what I told Mr. Nichols's family. What I said was that the
Department of Justice cares deeply about potential violations of constitutional rights, here in
Memphis and throughout America. I said we have opened a criminal civil rights investigation. I told
them this federal civil rights investigation will be thorough. It will be methodical. And it will
continue until we gather all the relevant facts. As with any other federal investigation, we will
go where those facts take us.I delivered that message to them. I want this community to hear that message as well. As I told Mr.
Nichols's family, our federal investigation may take some time. These things often do. But we will
be diligent, and we will make decisions based on the facts and the law.My office is working hand in hand with the Civil Rights Division in Washington, as well as the FBI
and other law enforcement partners. Our team includes very experienced federal prosecutors from our
office here in Memphis. It includes very experienced FBI agents from the FBI's Memphis Field
Office. It also includes a very experienced attorney from the Civil Rights Division.We have been in constant, very constructive communication with the Shelby County District Attorney
and state and local law enforcement agencies about this case. I am
thankful for that, and I expect that to continue.Finally, I know there is significant public interest in the release of the video that was shown to
Mr. Nichols's family. The state and local authorities have responsibility for determining when to
release video from this incident to the public. What I will say on behalf of the federal
authorities is that we want people to express their right to be heard, but we want them to do so in
a peaceful and non-violent way.I'll close by saying that I grew up in this city and care deeply about it. I want this city to be a
place where justice is done. The United States is committed to following the facts and the law,
guided by principles of justice every step of the way.”
###For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901)
544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news
and updates.Convicted Felon Sentenced to 15 Years for Aggravated Assault of a Federal Officer and Discharge of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Cody James Dimmett, 29, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for assault of a federal officer and the use and discharge of a firearm during the assault. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentence today.
According to the information presented in court, on May 25, 2021, the FBI and the Southaven Police were notified that Dimmett, wanted for multiple warrants, would be travelling through the area. When law enforcement noticed Dimmett's vehicle, they began a pursuit that ended in Memphis. Dimmett got out of his car with an SKS rifle and fired multiple rounds, striking an officer in the arm. He fled the scene in the officer’s vehicle and was later spotted in Arkansas. During the chase, Dimmett used the vehicle’s blue lights and led officers on a high-speed chase of more than 120 miles per hour, into Palestine, Arkansas, where he crashed and fled on foot. After several hours, the defendant surrendered.
On January 20, 2023, United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker sentenced Dimmett to 183 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Southaven Police Department, DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office, FBI, Memphis Police Department, Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia - State and Local Police Departments.
United States Attorney Ritz said: "This significant prison sentence justly reflects the severity of the crimes this defendant committed. I am glad we could hold him to account for his armed assault on law enforcement officers.”
“Federal law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect and defend our communities from violent criminals on a daily basis, and all too often those acts of violence are directed against law enforcement,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Douglas S. DePodesta of the Memphis Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. “This sentencing reaffirms the FBI’s commitment to hold violent members of society accountable and send to prison those who commit crimes against the brave men and women who dedicate themselves to upholding and enforcing the law.”
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Lorraine Craig and Greg Wagner, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates
Lakeland Woman Pleads Guilty to Education Loan FraudRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Kelli L. Pollard, 50, of Lakeland, Tennessee pled guilty to a criminal information, charging her with education loan fraud. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the guilty plea today.
According to the charging document and information presented in court, Kelli Pollard attended the University of Memphis as an undergraduate and graduate student between 2016 and 2022. In each of the five academic years between 2017 and 2022, Pollard obtained federally guaranteed student loans through fraud. She submitted falsified documentation for each student loan request to the University of Memphis Financial Aid Office, including three different fake doctors’ notes, falsified medical bills, and a false auto repair bill.
Sentencing is set for April 23, 2023, before United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker, where Pollard faces up to five years’ imprisonment, a $20,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the United States Department of Education Office of the Inspector General and the University of Memphis Police Department.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Murrell Foster, who prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Statement from United States Attorney Kevin G. RitzRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Kevin G. Ritz, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, issued the following statement today:
“Last week, Tyre Nichols tragically died, a few days after he was involved in an incident where Memphis Police Department officers used force during his arrest. State authorities have publicly announced that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is investigating. In addition, the United States Attorney’s Office, in coordination with the FBI Memphis Field Office and the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice, has opened a civil rights investigation. As this is an open investigation, we are not able to provide additional comment or release further information at this time.”
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at 901-544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow@WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Henry County Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Gary Osborne, 50, of Buchanan, Tennessee, has been sentenced to 210 months in federal
prison for drug trafficking and firearms charges. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced
the sentence today.According to the information presented in court, on August 15, 2018, members of the Metro Crime
Unit, in Henry County, Tennessee, executed a search warrant at Osborne's residence. Officers
located methamphetamine, digital scales, and more than $5200 in cash and a .243 rifle. As a result
of his extensive felony history, Osborne is prohibited by federal law from possessing firearms and
ammunition.Osborne pled guilty to ownership of the narcotics and the rifle.
On January 17, 2023, United States Chief District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Osborne to 210
months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no parole in
the federal system.This case was investigated by the Henry County Sheriff’s Department, Paris Police Department, and
the Puryear Police Department.United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Matt Wilson, who
prosecuted this case, as well as law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
###For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Fugitive in Fraud Conspiracy Extradited from FranceRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – A former Memphis resident, Ocho Edi Monso, 59, charged in a fraud conspiracy was
recently arrested in France and extradited to Memphis. In September 2016, Monso was charged in a
three-count indictment. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the charges and extradition
today.According to the indictment, between July 2013 and January 2014, Monso conspired with Dasse Romain
Yobo and other persons to defraud Regions Bank and other financial institutions. The indictment
alleges the conspiracy was carried out in some instances by obtaining customer account information
and causing fraudulent transfers to be made from customer accounts to accounts controlled by the
conspirators. In other instances, the indictment alleges that the conspirators carried out the
scheme by depositing altered or counterfeit checks to accounts they opened at financial
institutions and then withdrawing or transferring funds from the account of deposit to accounts
they controlled at other financial institutions.In December 2013, Monso provided co-conspirator Yobo with fraudulent identification to open an
account at Regions Bank under the name KEM Construction. On December 30, 2013, the indictment
alleges that a check payable in the amount of $130,949.96 with an altered payee name was deposited
to the account. On January 9, 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. Monso
was also charged in two other counts with possession of 15 or more counterfeit and unauthorized
access devices and device-making equipment with intent to defraud.Monso was arrested in France in early December 2021, where he had been awaiting extradition. Monso
made his initial appearance in the Western District of Tennessee on January 17, 2023, before United
States Magistrate Judge Annie T. Christoff, who ordered him temporarily detained pending a
detention hearing currently set for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 20, 2023.Monso faces a maximum sentence of 30 years’ imprisonment, $1,000,000 fine and five
years’ supervised release on the conspiracy charge and ten years imprisonment, $250,000 fine and three years’ supervised release on the access device fraud charge and 15 years’
imprisonment, $250,000 fine, and three years’ supervised release for possession of access device
making equipment. Each charge also carries a $100.00 mandatory assessment.The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the United States
Secret Service. The United States Department of Justice Office of International Affairs assisted in
the extradition proceedings and the U.S. Marshals Service carried out the extradition of Monso from
France.An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Carroll Andre’, who
prosecuted this case, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case, including
the U.S. Marshals who carried out the extradition.
###For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or
[email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Four Memphis Carjackers Who Shot Law Enforcement Officers SentencedRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Julius Armstrong, 20, Adairius Armstrong, 20, Barium Martin, 20, and Malik McCoy, 19, have received significant federal prison sentences after being convicted of carjacking, assaulting a federal officer, and using a weapon during those crimes. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentences today.
According to the information presented in court, in early May 2021, Julius Armstrong, Adairius Armstrong, Barium Martin, and Malik McCoy committed a string of violent armed carjackings in the city of Memphis. On May 7, 2021, the individuals were spotted on a traffic camera crashing out in one of the stolen vehicles. They were confronted by two law enforcement officers: a special agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and a sergeant with the Memphis Police Department. The individuals, who were armed with a handgun and an assault rifle, fired on the vehicle the officers were in, injuring both officers.
At the time these crimes were committed, Julius Armstrong was 18 years old; Adairius Armstrong and Barium Martin were 19 years old; and Malik McCoy was 17 years old. McCoy was originally charged as a juvenile before being transferred to adult status in federal court.
United States Attorney Ritz stated: “These young men engaged in violent criminal acts, including shooting at and injuring law enforcement officers. Their serious crimes deserved serious sentences. Protecting Americans from gun violence is one of our top priorities, and our efforts in this area will remain robust and unrelenting.”
Julius Armstrong pled guilty to carjacking, brandishing a firearm during a carjacking, assault on a federal officer, and discharging a firearm during the assault. He was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker on November 10, 2022, to 264 months imprisonment.
Adairius Armstrong pled guilty to carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a carjacking. He was sentenced by Judge Parker on November 21, 2022, to 216 months imprisonment.
Barium Martin pled guilty to carjacking, brandishing a firearm during a carjacking, and assault on a federal officer. He was sentenced by Judge Parker on November 18, 2022, to 156 months imprisonment.
Malik McCoy pled guilty to carjacking, brandishing a firearm during a carjacking, and assault on a federal officer. He was sentenced by Judge Parker on January 11, 2023, to 156 months imprisonment.
“Protecting the public from violent criminals who illegally possess firearms is at the core of the mission of the men and women of ATF. In this instance, an act of violence was perpetrated upon law enforcement including an ATF agent. Today’s actions bring that matter to a close and the court’s sentencing reaffirms the commitment to the public of holding violent members of our society accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson of the ATF-Nashville Field Office.
“The FBI and our Federal and State partners will continue to combine our efforts and resources to target those who commit violent crimes in our community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Bryan McCloskey of the Memphis Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. “The law enforcement response and investigation, collaboration by law enforcement and prosecutors, and the sentences imposed serve notice to all that crimes of violence, especially those that threaten the lives of law enforcement, will be met with swift and exacting justice.”
This case was investigated by the ATF and the FBI.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Rogers, Dean DeCandia, and Greg Wagner, who prosecuted the case, as well as the law enforcement officers who conducted the investigation.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at 901-544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow@WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Federal Jury Finds Convicted Felon Guilty of Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – After a two-day trial, Gary Crawford, 32, has been found guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. United States Attorney Kevin Ritz announced the guilty verdict today.
According to information presented in court, on October 27, 2021, it was reported that a male on Porter Street and Ioka Avenue was armed with a machete. Memphis Police Officers responded to the 700 block of Porter and spoke with a complainant who advised that a man named Gary from the neighborhood threatened her with a machete and left it on her porch. Officers recovered the machete.
While still on the scene, officers responded to another call that a man fitting the same description began firing shots in the area. Crawford was found sitting on a couch on the porch of a home on Ioka Avenue. After noticing the officers, Crawford stood up and began waving a firearm and yelling at the officers. He was ordered to drop the weapon but did not comply and a standoff began. A short time later, the firearm fell from his lap, he stood up, walked off the porch, and undressed in the front yard before officers rushed and took him into custody. A Smith & Wesson 9mm caliber pistol was recovered where Crawford was sitting.
As a result of his felony convictions, Crawford is prohibited by federal law from possessing firearms and ammunition.
Sentencing is set on April 7, 2023, before United States District Judge Samuel H. Mays.
This case was investigated by Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), and the Memphis Police Department. PSN is a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Regina Thompson and Stephen Hall, who prosecuted this case, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.
Two Memphis Men Sentenced for Federal Firearms CrimesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Daniel Kirtman, 25, and Michael Thomas, 24, have been sentenced to a total of 15 years in federal prison for federal firearms crimes. Kirtman was sentenced to eight years for being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession and transfer of a short-barrel rifle. Thomas was sentenced to seven years for possession of a machine gun and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime.
According to information presented in court, in June 2021, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Multi-Agency Gang Unit investigated individuals who were illegally possessing firearms and machine gun conversion devices.
On two separate occasions, Thomas sold machine gun conversion devices, known as “Glock switches.” On another occasion, Kirtman, a convicted felon, sold a short-barrel rifle. Agents arrested Thomas and seized an AR-style pistol. Agents also arrested Kirtman and seized a Glock pistol equipped with an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device. During the investigation, agents purchased and seized 10 firearms from Kirtman and Thomas.
On June 29, 2022, Thomas pled guilty to possessing a machinegun and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On August 26, 2022, Kirtman pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, possessing and transferring a firearm in violation of the National Firearms Act.
On December 1, 2022, United States District Judge Jon P. McCalla sentenced Thomas to 84 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release. On December 7, 2022, Judge McCalla sentenced Kirtman to 102 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorney Gregory Allen, who prosecuted this case, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case.
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For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.