Eastern District of Texas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Hunting and Fishing Guide Sentenced for Federal Wildlife Violation “Gar Guy” Sentenced for Transporting Alligator Killed in Violation of State and Federal LawRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 49-year-old Kennard, Texas, hunting and fishing guide has been sentenced for transporting an alligator that he knew had been shot in violation of state and federal wildlife laws, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Steve Barclay pleaded guilty on Aug. 13, 2013, to the felony offense of transporting wildlife taken in violation of federal law and was sentenced to three years’ probation and ordered to pay a $5,000 fine today by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark.
According to information presented in court, Barclay admitted that on May 8th, 16th, and 20th of 2008 he witnessed John A. McCall, a client for whom he was providing guide services, shoot and kill a total of three alligators even though Barclay knew that Texas law limits hunters to one alligator per hunter per season. Barclay admitted that he transported the alligator killed on May 20, 2008 in Leon County to Sportsman’s Memory taxidermy shop in Grapeland, Texas.
The Endangered Species Act prohibits the taking of any threatened species of fish or wildlife in violation of any federal or state regulation pertaining to such species. Alligators are listed as a threatened species pursuant to the Endangered Species Act. The Lacy Act prohibits the transport, receipt, or acquisition of any wildlife taken, possessed, or transported in violation of any law, treaty, or regulation of the United States.
“Our State partner was essential to the success of this case, and that cooperation remains critical to disrupting wildlife taken in violation of Federal Law,” said Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southwest Region Nicholas E. Chavez. "With our combined efforts, we protect our threatened/endangered listed species, and other wildlife from being exploited in our Nation."This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, Houston, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Criminal Investigations Division, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jim Noble and Joe Batte.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. It is both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for its scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on its work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov . Connect with its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/usfws , follow its tweets at www.twitter.com/usfwshq , watch its YouTube Channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/usfws and download photos from its Flickr page at http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwshq .
Smith County Man Sentenced for Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 38-year-old Tyler man has been sentenced to 45 years in federal prison for child exploitation violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Mark Rushton Lawless pleaded guilty on Sep. 5, 2013 to possession of child pornography, transportation of a child to engage in sexual activity, production of child pornography, and aggravated sexual abuse of a child. Lawless was sentenced to 45 years in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael Schneider.According to information presented in court, on Feb. 12, 2013, Lawless was found in possession of child pornography, specifically material involving a child younger than 12 years old engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Lawless admitted that on Dec. 28, 2012, he transported a minor across state lines for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity and sexually abusing a child younger than 12 years of age. Lawless also admitted that on Jan. 2, 2013, he enticed or coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of creating child pornography. Lawless was indicted on Feb. 27, 2013 and charged with child pornography violations.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Secret Service, the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Tyler Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gregg Marchessault and Mandy Griffith and Michael Grant of the Department of Justice’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.Collin County Felon Sentenced for Federal Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 42-year-old Farmersville, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Craig Marcus Cooper pleaded guilty on Sep. 11, 2013, to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider.
According to information presented in court, on Jan. 13, 2012, Cooper and a co-defendant, Colten David Barrow, traveled together to the Dukes Truck Stop on Highway 64 in Van Zandt County, Texas to meet an individual interested in purchasing a fully-automatic machinegun and silencer for $10,000. The prospective buyer was an undercover federal agent and Cooper and Barrow were arrested at the scene. Further investigation revealed Cooper was a convicted felon having been previously been found guilty of criminal mischief in Collin County, Texas in 2011. The investigation also revealed the machinegun had been reported stolen about 10 years ago. Cooper was indicted on Mar. 27, 2013 and charged with federal firearms violations.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, ammunition and body armor, and improving the safety of residents in the Eastern District of Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.Anderson County Man Guilty of Sexually Exploiting ChildRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 46-year-old Grapeland, Texas man has pleaded guilty to child exploitation violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Robbie Newby pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a child on Jan. 9, 2014, before U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love.According to information presented in court, on March 14, 2012, Newby coerced or persuaded a child under the age of 16 to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of creating child pornography. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on April 17, 2013, charging Newby with child exploitation violations.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Newby faces a minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations and the Texas Department of Public Safety – Criminal Investigations Division and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel C. Kummerfeld.Anderson County Man Guilty of Child Pornography ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 49-year-old Palestine, Texas man has pleaded guilty to child pornography violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Alvin Westley pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography on Jan. 9, 2014, before U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love.According to information presented in court, on Jan. 26, 2011, Westley was found in possession of child pornography. During the investigation, it was revealed that Westley is a registered sex offender having been previously convicted of three counts of indecency with a child. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Oct. 23, 2013, charging Westley was child pornography violations.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Westley faces a minimum of 10 years and up to 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations and the Texas Department of Public Safety – Criminal Investigations division and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel C. Kummerfeld.Beaumont ISD Employees Charged with Stealing over $4 MillionRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – The Director of Finance and Comptroller of the Beaumont Independent School District (BISD) have been indicted on federal charges in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Devin Wayne McCraney, 35, and Sharika Baksh Allison, 43, both of Beaumont, were named in a 19-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury today charging them with conspiracy and 18 counts of fraud.
According to the indictment, beginning in 2010, McCraney, Director of Finance for BISD, and Allison, Comptroller for BISD, are alleged to have devised schemes in which they embezzled $4,041,705.27 from BISD by means of 18 separate wire transfers to bank accounts under their personal control.
“FDR famously said, ‘The school is the last expenditure upon which America should be willing to economize’,” said U.S. Attorney Bales. “And the truth is that the citizens of Beaumont have heeded that wise advice and have spent lavishly on their public schools for the sake of the city’s children. But as this indictment illustrates, there are individuals at BISD who have corruptly embezzled from that generous provision by stealing over $4 million dollars that was intended to underwrite excellent schools in Beaumont. The Grand Jury has alleged that Devin McCraney and Sharika Allison have been caught red-handed and if convicted, they will face justice. In the same way, federal agents and prosecutors will remain vigilant to detect, investigate and hold accountable other so-called public servants who are abusing the public trust.”
"The FBI recognizes that fighting public corruption is vital to preserving our democracy," said SAC Stephen L. Morris. "Our public officials have and always will be held to a higher standard to maintain their positions of trust. These indictments today signify a violation of the public trust given to Devin McCraney and Sharika Allison."
If you have any information related to this matter, please call the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 409-832-8571.
“Today’s indictment alleges that these two public officials knowingly and willfully abused their positions of trust to steal funds from the very ones they promised to serve – the children of the Beaumont Independent School District. That is completely unacceptable,” said Neil Sanchez, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General’s Southwest Regional Office. “OIG Special Agents will continue to aggressively pursue those who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of our nation’s students. America’s students, their families, and taxpayers deserve nothing less.”
The defendants each face up to 10 years in federal prison.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher T. Tortorice and Joseph R. Batte.
A grand jury indictment is not evidence of guilt and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Orange County, Texas Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Racketeering MurderRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 34-year-old Vidor, Texas man was sentenced today for his role in a March 2011 murder committed in as part of the SWS criminal enterprise in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Tanner Lynn Bourque, a/k/a “Two Shoes,” a/k/a “Hitman” pleaded guilty on July 15, 2013, to murder in aid of racketeering and was sentenced to life in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone.
According to information presented in court, Bourque ordered Kenny Don Stanley, 32, to shoot and kill James Lee Sedtal, a/k/a “Lil Bit,” on Mar. 14, 2011. Bourque, Kristopher Leigh Guidry, a/k/a “Hollywood”, 29, and Vicki Stark-Fitts, 49, assisted in the murder, which took place in Liberty County, Texas, at Stark-Fitts’s residence. Bourque, Guidry, Stanley, and Sedtal were members of the SWS. The defendants murdered Sedtal on behalf of SWS, after Sedtal assaulted an Aryan Brotherhood of Texas (ABT) associate. ABT was poised to retaliate against SWS, and Bourque, Guidry, and Stanley sought to maintain and increase their position within SWS by murdering Sedtal.
According to court documents, the SWS is a race-based organization operating inside and outside of jails and prisons in Texas and elsewhere. SWS was founded during the 1990s by inmates within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. SWS is also known as “Solid Wood Soldiers” and “Separate White State.” Although the founders established SWS for protection of white inmates and advancement of white supremacy and white separatism, SWS expanded its objectives to include illegal activities for profit, including trafficking methamphetamine and firearms. SWS protects its power, territory, and profits through intimidation and violence, including assaults, robbery, and murder.
From September 2010 to January 2011, SWS members manufactured “shake and bake” methamphetamine for distribution in the Orange County area of Texas. In February 2011, Bourque, Guidry and other SWS members became closely associated with Stark-Fitts, who supplied them with crystal methamphetamine and firearms. Crystal methamphetamine is a purer form of methamphetamine. According to information presented in court, the defendants murdered Sedtal in connection with the methamphetamine conspiracy.
Stanley, Guidry and Stark-Fitts pleaded guilty this summer for their respective roles in the murder, and Judge Crone sentenced Stanley and Guidry to life in prison in October 2013. Stark-Fitts is awaiting sentencing and faces from 360 months to life in prison.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhood’s Time Machine Initiative. Time Machine is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, ammunition and body armor, and improving the safety of residents in the Eastern District of Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
The case is being investigated by the ATF, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Bureau of Prisons, DEA, Texas Rangers, Department of Public Safety CID, Texas Department of Criminal Justice OIG, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Hardin County Sheriff’s Office, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Tyler County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and Beaumont Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John B. Ross.
#######Beaumont Jury Convicts Ohio Man in Credit Card Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 28-year-old Columbus, Ohio man has been found guilty of federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Mohamed Laye Dioubate, a naturalized citizen from Guinea, was found guilty by a jury of possessing 15 or more unauthorized access devices today following a three-day trial before U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone.
“This holiday season, I encourage everyone to be protective of their credit cards and their personal identifying information,” said U.S. Attorney Bales. “Grinches, like identity thieves, are unfortunately common this time of the year.”
According to information presented in court, on June 27, 2012, Dioubate was stopped on Interstate-10 in Beaumont for a traffic violation. A search of the vehicle revealed 158 fraudulent credit cards, a laptop computer and a credit card encoder. The credit cards contained various names and account numbers and had been used in multiple fraudulent purchases throughout the country. In November 2012, Dioubate was stopped on two separate occasions, once in Missouri and once in Indiana. During each of those stops, he was again found in possession of multiple fraudulent credit cards. On Apr. 17, 2013, Dioubate was indicted by a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Texas and charged with federal violations.
Dioubate faces up to 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set.
Citizens can visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website to learn more on how to protect themselves from identity theft schemes: http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0014-identity-theft
This case was investigated by the Beaumont Police Department, U.S. Secret Service, St. Charles County, Missouri, Sheriff’s Office, and the Henry County, Indiana, Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher T. Tortorice and Brit Featherston.
#######Tax Preparer Sentenced for Federal Tax ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsSHERMAN, Texas - A Tax Preparer has been sentenced to federal prison for tax violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Wellington Mandhlazi pleaded guilty on May 16, 2013 to aiding and assisting in the preparation of fraudulent tax returns and was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison on Dec. 16, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark. Mandhlazi was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $147,851.00.
According to the court documents, in 2009, Mandhlazi operated an income tax preparation business. Mandhlazi admitted that he assisted in the preparation of false federal income tax returns and included false items for educational expenses and education tax credits. Mandhlazi also admitted that his false statements were made for the purpose of defrauding the Internal Revenue Service.
The estimated tax loss related to the false federal income tax returns prepared as a result of Mandhlazi’s fraudulent conduct, on behalf of himself and other taxpayers, was $147,851.00. Mandhlazi must report on or before Feb. 4, 2014, to begin serving his prison sentence.
This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andy Williams.
Six Guilty in Connection with Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsSHERMAN, Texas – Six North Texas men have pleaded guilty in connection with a heroin trafficking conspiracy in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Julio Cruz, 23, of Carrollton, Texas, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute heroin on Dec. 10, 2013, before U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone.Co-defendants, Tyrese Jerrell Shelton, 27, of Carrollton; Cesar Alexander Avelar-Gomez, 20, of Dallas; Jose Eladio Molina, 27, of Carrollton; and Taylor Evan Anderson, 22, of Carrollton, each pleaded guilty to the same charges in the previous two months. Clayton Teasdale, 24, of Carrollton, pleaded guilty to using a communication device to facilitate a drug trafficking crime.
According to the Second Superseding Indictment, the distribution of heroin in this case was linked to heroin overdoses, including the death of a Carrollton resident.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Dec. 12, 2012, charging the defendants with federal drug trafficking violations.
"Members of the law enforcement community, to include the judicial system, are all too aware of the dangers and impact that illegal drug trafficking and use has on society,” said Chief Rex Redden of the Carrollton Police Department. “The results are always negative; so when we're able to work with our counterparts to bring individuals such as this to justice we know that we may be saving lives and lessening the harmful effects on our community. I want to congratulate everyone involved and thank those that came forward to assist and for their courage to do the right thing. We certainly feel for those that have lost loved ones and will continue to work hard to protect society from the harmful effects of illegal narcotics."
The Drug Enforcement Administration, along with our state and local partners, is committed to targeting and dismantling drug trafficking organizations determined to spread their filth throughout our communities said DEA’s Special Agent in Charge Daniel Salter. “Heroin abuse is unfortunately escalating --- forcing addiction, pain and devastation on its users. Today is a victory and I applaud the efforts of the special agents and officers who worked relentlessly to shut down this drug trafficking organization and to keep our neighborhoods free of the poison being spread by these criminals.”
The defendants each face a minimum of 10 years and up to Life in federal prison at sentencing. Sentencing dates have not been set.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Carrollton Police Department, the Coppell Police Department, the San Antonio Police Department, the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Rattan.
Former Beaumont Physician and Office Manager Charged with Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A former Beaumont physician and office manager have been charged with health care fraud violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
John Q. A. Webb, Jr., 74, of Houston, and Kari Mannino, 30, of Woodville, were indicted by a federal grand jury on Dec. 5, 2013, and charged in a 43-count indictment with health care fraud, conspiracy to commit health care fraud, distribution of controlled substances, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
According to the indictment, Webb and Mannino are alleged to have executed various schemes in order to defraud Medicare, Medicaid , Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna. Since 2007, Webb owned operated and managed Beaumont Medical Clinic on Eastex Freeway in Beaumont. From about January 2008 through December 2011, Webb and his office manager, Mannino, are alleged to have instructed unlicensed individuals to treat patients and then bill health care providers as if Webb had personally provided the services. Webb and Mannino are also alleged to have conspired with each other to distribute Suboxone, a Schedule III controlled substance, by prescribing the drug not in the usual course of professional practice. To execute the scheme, Webb would allow unlicensed staff to prescribe controlled substances to patients when he was not on the premises and allowed Mannino to distribute the controlled substances directly to patients. It is further alleged that Webb and Mannino failed to conduct adequate or any physical examinations of the individuals in order to diagnose and treat patients. The indictment alleges that Webb and Mannino caused health care benefit programs to be billed in excess of $3,623,749.84, and Webb was paid in excess of $1,106,862.00.
Webb appeared in federal court in Houston on Dec. 11, 2013 for an initial appearance. Mannino appeared in Beaumont on Dec. 11, 2013, for an initial appearance. Both were released on bond.
If convicted, the defendants face up to 10 years in federal prison for each charge.
This case is being investigated by the Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Department of Health and Human Services, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Catherine Levacy Cockrell.
A grand jury indictment is not evidence of guilt and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Drug Traffickers Indicted in “Operation M-Pact,” A Two-year Methamphetamine InvestigationRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTEXARKANA, Texas – U.S. Attorney John M. Bales and Bowie County District Attorney Jerry Rochelle announced today the culmination of “Operation M-Pact,” a two-year joint federal and state investigation into individuals responsible for mid- and high-level trafficking and distribution of methamphetamine through the Eastern District of Texas as well as to Arkansas, Louisiana, and Tennessee. The investigated individuals were responsible for trafficking and distributing more than 250 kilograms of methamphetamine through the I-30 corridor, to Northeast Texas, Southwest Arkansas, and beyond. Those being prosecuted include:
Calvin Avery, age 41, Texarkana, TX
Darrin Betts, age 34, Texarkana, TX
Robert Clark, age 29, Diaz, AR
Marcus Floyd, age 25, Texarkana, TX
Rodrick Grimes, age 40, Coppell, TX
Keith Harris, age 44, Texarkana, TX
Danny Hill, age 33, Texarkana, TX
Abdul Hopkins, age 40, Texarkana, TX
Sonya Hopkins, age 37, Texarkana, TX
Jamaine Hunt, age 40, Texarkana, TX
Johnny Hunt, age 40, Dallas, TX
William Irby, age 43, Wynne, AR
Ashton Jackson, age 24, Texarkana, TX
Michael Jackson, age 38, Texarkana, TX
Keith Jones, age 32, Texarkana, TX
Lloyd Jones, age 29, Texarkana, TX
Santigie (Fred) Kabia, age 32, Texarkana, TX
Anthony Bryan Krebs, age 34, Texarkana, TX
Jonathan Lee, age 32, St. Louis, MO
Gary Lindsay, age 32, Texarkana, TX
Jason Martin, age 36, Texarkana, TX
Kenneth McCoy, age 43, Dallas, TX
Aaron Meeks, age 35, Texarkana, TX
Everett Moore, age 35, Texarkana, TX
Patrick O’Guinn, age 40, Ashdown, AR
Kelvin Ragland, age 34, Texarkana, TX
Robert Sanders, age 36, Texarkana, TX
Cornell Thomas, age 42, Texarkana, TX
Roderick Thurman, age 34, Texarkana, TX
Kenneth Walker, age 28, Texarkana, TX
Jeremy Wilson, age 26, Texarkana, TX
Clarence Willis, age 41, Texarkana, TXThis case is the result of an extensive two year joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division, Bi-State Narcotics Task Force, Texarkana, Texas Police Department, and IRS Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the police departments of Texarkana, Arkansas; Mt. Pleasant, Texas; Nacogdoches, Texas; Ashdown, Arkansas; the Miller and Little River County (Arkansas) and Bowie County (Texas) Sheriff’s Offices; the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Arkansas; the District Attorney’s Offices of Bowie County, Texas, Anderson County, Texas, and Little River County, Arkansas. During the course of this operation, agents have successfully arrested approximately 50 individuals and seized approximately 23 pounds of methamphetamine, over 3 pounds of cocaine, large amounts of marijuana, more than $50,000 in U.S. currency, 31 vehicles (recovering 6 stolen vehicles), 45 firearms (recovering 3 stolen firearms), more than 10,000 rounds of ammunition, and 7 properties with an estimated value of over $400,000.
The investigation has led to additional arrests in the Northern District of Texas (Dallas area), including more than 16 additional defendants and the seizure of more than 2 kilograms of methamphetamine.
“Today’s announcement signals the dismantlement of a destructive criminal enterprise,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Diego Rodriguez. “The cooperation and coordination amongst local, state and federal law enforcement agencies resulted in the shared success of removing significant social and criminal threats to the community.”
These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Locker and Mary Ann Cozby and Bowie County District Attorney Jerry Rochelle.The defendant Roderick Thurman is currently a fugitive from justice. We ask that anyone with information regarding his whereabouts contact the U.S. Marshals Service in Texarkana at (903) 793-8782.
Collin County Man Guilty in Foreign Currency Trading Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas – A 54-year-old Plano, Texas man has pleaded guilty to federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Kevin G. White pleaded guilty to committing mail fraud in connection with a commodity trading fraud scheme today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Don D. Bush.According to information presented in court, White operated Revelation Forex Fund (RFF), which was a fund that conducted foreign exchange currency trading. RFF had its offices in Plano. In order to lure investors to purchase partnership interests in RFF, White falsely overstated the past rate of return on investment for RFF, that RFF returns had been audited, and the length of time RFF had actually been in existence. RFF received investments totaling over $7.4 million. White admitted to using approximately $1.8 million of investor funds for non-investment purposes. The loss to investors was approximately $4 million.
White faces up to 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andy Williams.
New Boston, Texas Woman Guilty of Sending Ricin LettersRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTEXARKANA, Texas – A 35-year-old New Boston, Texas woman has pleaded guilty to a biological weapons charge in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales and Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security. John Carlin.
Shannon Guess Richardson pleaded guilty to an Information charging her with possession of a toxin for use as a weapon today before U.S. Magistrate judge Caroline M. Craven. Richardson was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on June 27, 2013, charging her with threatening the President of the United States, mailing a threatening letter to New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and mailing a threatening letter to Mark Glaze in Washington, D.C.According to the information presented in court, during April-May 2013, Richardson made several online purchases of items for the purpose of producing ricin. These supplies included castor bean seeds and sodium hydroxide (lye.) Ricin is a biological toxin that can be fatal if ingested, inhaled, or injected. There is no known antidote or cure for ricin poisoning.
Richardson subsequently placed ricin onto threat letters addressed to President Barack Obama, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Mark Glaze. On May 20, 2013, Richardson mailed the three threatening letters from the New Boston, Texas, Post Office. On May 30, 2013, Richardson traveled to the Shreveport, LA, Police Department and reported that her husband was responsible for the ricin-laced letters.
Richardson was arrested on June 7, 2013, in Mt. Pleasant, Texas, and has been detained since that time. She faces up to life in federal prison at sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the New Boston, Texas Police Department, the Shreveport, Louisiana, Police Department and the New York City Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Coan, Ryan Locker and Brit Featherston, as well as Trial Attorney Jolie Zimmerman of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.
East Texans Arrested on Federal Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas - U.S. Attorney John M. Bales announced today that 16 individuals have been arrested following a lengthy investigation into drug trafficking in the Eastern District of Texas.
On Dec. 10, 2013, a combined task force of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies began arresting individuals named in a federal indictment returned by a grand jury on Nov. 20, 2013. The indictment charges the following individuals with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana in the Eastern District of Texas:
ANTONIO CORTEZ GONZALES, 34, of Tyler,
MONICA HENSLEY, 35, of Longview,
GUILLERMO ORTIZ-PINEDA, a/k/a "The General," 38, of Houston,
JUAN GUTIERREZ MOJICA, 43, of Tyler,
a/k/a "Benjamin Blanco", a/k/a "Chava",
a/k/a "Chaparro", a/k/a "El4",
a/k/a "Carlos Pineda", a/k/a "Oneldo Pineda",
a/k/a "Eledoni Panteleon",
a/k/a "Serafin GutietTez",
a/k/a "Gonzalo Coria", a/k/a "Luis Tapia",
a/k/a "Emilio Guerra;”
MIRIAM REYES, 41, of Houston,
JUVENCIO DUQUE, 53, of Dallas,
MAURICIO ORROSTIETA RODRIGUEZ, 40, of Tyler,
ALEJANDRO HERNANDEZ, 46, of Irving, Texas,
IVAN SANCHEZ, 21, of Tyler,
ESTEBAN AVELLANEDA MUNOZ, 19, of Tyler,
JONHYAYALA, 34, of Tyler,
JESUS BOTELLO, 34, of Tyler,
GUADALUPE CUARENTA, 48, of Tyler,
SERGIO MOJICA, 30, of Tyler,
LUIS GARCIA-AGUIRRE, 32, of Tyler, and
IRERI PINEDA, xx, of Tyler.The defendants will appear today in federal court for initial appearances. If convicted, the defendants face from 10 years to life in federal prison.
This case is the result of an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) joint investigation. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
In August 2012, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Tyler Task Force, in conjunction with multiple law enforcement agencies, initiated an OCDETF investigation into a crystal methamphetamine trafficking organization based in the East Texas area with direct ties to Mexico. The organization also distributes cocaine and marijuana. This 16 month investigation involved extensive surveillance and innovative investigative techniques. Several sources of supply for crystal methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana were identified during the course of the investigation. To date, law enforcement officials have seized multiple pounds of crystal methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana. Officers have also seized more than $200,000 cash, multiple weapons, vehicles, and real property.
“Today’s enforcement operations are indicative of the DEA’s commitment to rid our communities of drug trafficking organizations determined to profit on the backs of addiction,” said the DEA Dallas Division’s Special Agent in Charge Daniel R. Salter. “Citizens in East Texas can rest assured that the DEA and our law enforcement partners are determined to ensure that Tyler and its surrounding communities remain safe and a great place to live. The success of this investigation is an outstanding example of our law enforcement community’s resolve and determination.”
The DEA Task Force in Tyler includes officers from the Gregg County Sheriff’s Office, Henderson County Sheriff’s Office, Henderson Police Department, Kilgore Police Department, Smith County Sheriff’s Office, and Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, as well as DEA Special Agents.Other agencies assisting in the joint investigation include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Department of Public Safety (DPS), Kilgore Police Department, Longview Police Department, Gregg County Sheriff’s Office, Smith County Sheriff’s Office, Tyler Police Department, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.
A grand jury indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Smith County Man Guilty of Loan FraudRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 58-year-old Tyler, Texas man has pleaded guilty to federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Bobby Gene Loggins pleaded guilty to an Information charging him with making false statements to a bank today before U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love.According to information presented in court, Loggins has been affiliated with Loggins Meat Company (LMC) in Tyler for more than 30 years. During most of that time, Loggins served as President and Chief Executive Officer of LMC. The company was founded in 1940 by Loggins’ father and operates as a wholesaler, retailer, and processor of meat and meat products. In March 2009, Loggins applied to Bank of Tyler for a revolving line of credit. In connection with the loan application, Loggins provided fraudulent financial information for LMC. Following approval of the loan, Loggins continued to provide false financial data when seeking advances on the credit line. Ultimately, LMC ceased operation in about August 2010.
Loggins faces up to 30 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Coan.
Dallas Man Sentenced in Witness Intimidation SchemeRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsSHERMAN, Texas – A 48-year-old Dallas man has been sentenced to federal prison for the carjacking of a witness in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Dietrick Lewis Johnson pleaded guilty to carjacking and tampering with a witness on Oct. 15, 2013 and was sentenced to 240 months for the carjacking violation and 125 months for the witness tampering charge today by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone. Johnson was ordered to serve the sentences consecutively for a total of 365 months in federal prison.
According to information presented in court, on Mar. 21, 2011, Johnson kidnapped an ex-girlfriend who had a restraining order against him for stalking her. Johnson forced the woman into her vehicle at gunpoint and drove away with her in the car. Once they arrived at Johnson’s apartment, he forced the woman to call the Dallas county District Attorney’s office and request the stalking charges be dropped. Johnson was indicted by a federal grand jury on Apr. 11, 2013.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the McKinney Police Department and the Dallas Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey Batson.
Zimbabwean Man Sentenced for Federal Tax ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsSHERMAN, Texas - A 39-year-old Zimbabwean man living in Dallas, Texas has been sentenced to federal prison for tax violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Moses Mukuka, formerly living in Pocatello, Idaho, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for his role in two conspiracies to file false claims for refunds with the IRS. Mukuka was sentenced on Nov. 12, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Thad Heartfield.
According to the court documents, Mukuka entered into one conspiracy with another individual to place flyers around the Idaho State University campus, advertising himself as an accounting student, which he was not, and offering to do income tax returns for a $10 fee. Mukuka received paperwork from students to prepare their taxes and then sent the information out-of-state to the other individual to prepare the tax returns. The tax returns were submitted to the IRS with false information, including the number of dependents, claims as head-of-household, and other fictitious entries designed to increase the refund amount. Mukuka then distributed a small portion of the actual refund to the taxpayer, representing it was the entire refund, and failed to provide copies of the returns to the taxpayers. Mukuka admitted that he was aware the tax returns were false. As part of his sentence for this conspiracy, Mukuka was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,463,116.00.
In the other conspiracy, Mukuka and his co-conspirators acquired the personal identification information of others, including their Electronic Filing Identification Numbers, and they used that information to file false tax refund claims with the Internal Revenue Service. Mukuka and his co-conspirators received at least $1,056,681.00 in fraudulent tax refunds and intended to cause a loss of $1,700,000 as a result of these false tax refund claims. As part of his sentence for this conspiracy Mukuka must pay restitution in the amount of a $1,056,681. Mukuka was ordered to be deported after he completes his prison term
This prosecution resulted from an investigation conducted by special agents with the IRS Criminal Investigation. The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack B. Haycock in Idaho before it was transferred to the Eastern District of Texas and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Eason.
Nacogdoches Traffic Stop Results in Federal Prison Sentence for Mexican NationalRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 27-year-old Tamaulipas, Mexico man has been sentenced to federal prison for credit card fraud related charges in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Samuel Rivera Compean pleaded guilty on Apr. 16, 2013, to possession of 15 or more unauthorized access devices and was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark. Compean was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $58,754 to Discover Financial Services, a credit card issuer.
According to information presented in court, on Mar. 16, 2012, Compean was stopped by a State trooper for a traffic violation in Nacogdoches, Texas. During the traffic stop, 146 fraudulent credit cards were discovered in different names with matching false identification cards bearing Compean’s picture. The cards were secreted in various compartments in the car. Compean also had numerous electronic items purchased with the cards including I-pads, I-pods, Xboxes, and laptop computers. Compean attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended after a short foot chase. He was released later on bond by a local judge. Compean was indicted by a federal grand jury on Feb. 6, 2013, and charged with federal credit card fraud charges. Compean will be deported following his prison sentence.
This case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Houston Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert L. Rawls.
Gregg County Woman Sentenced for Federal Tax ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas - A 38-year-old Longview, Texas woman has been sentenced to federal prison for tax violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Racyna Antoinette Henry pleaded guilty on May 14, 2013, to aiding and assisting in the preparation of fraudulent tax returns and was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Leonard Davis. Henry was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $277,364.
According to information presented in court, in 2006, Henry began working out of her home as a tax return preparer with a company known as Preyear’s Tax and Check Cashing Services, LLC, which is based in Alabama. Around October 2007, Henry also managed and operated a company known as Henry’s Tax Service LLC out of her home. At some point in 2006, Henry admits that she began assisting in the preparation of false federal income tax returns. The false items contained false dependents, false child tax credits, false child and dependent care expenses, false losses on farming activities, and false earned income tax credits.
The estimated tax loss related to the false federal income tax returns prepared with assistance from Henry from 2006 to 2010 was between $200,000 and $400,000. Henry must report to the U.S. Marshals Service on or before Jan. 6, 2014 to begin serving her prison sentence.
This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan R. Jackson.Beaumont Orthodontist Sentenced for Health Care Fraud ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 70-year-old Beaumont orthodontist has been sentenced to federal prison for health care fraud violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Terrence Ewing Syler pleaded guilty on June 18, 2013, to health care fraud and was sentenced to 22 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Thad Heartfield. Syler was also ordered to submit to forfeiture of $829,000 and pay a $6,000 fine.
According to the information presented in court, Syler owned and operated Syler Orthodontics in Beaumont. From January 2007 to October 2012, Syler carried out a scheme to defraud Medicaid by submitting claims for palatal expanders which were never provided to his patients. As a result of the scheme, Syler received $829,333 to which he was not entitled. As part of his plea agreement, Syler has agreed to forfeiture of several bank accounts totaling just over $829,000.
The Texas Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) is a health care benefit program, jointly funded by the State of Texas and the federal government, and helps pay for reasonable and necessary medical procedures and services provided to individuals who are deemed eligible under state low-income programs.
This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the Texas Office of the Attorney General – Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (OAG-MFCU). Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher T. Tortorice prosecuted this case.
Any individuals with knowledge of these or other health care fraud violations are encouraged to contact the Department of Health and Human Services’ fraud hotline at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (447-8477).
Smith County Man Sentenced for Stealing Government PropertyRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 34-year-old Tyler, Texas man has been sentenced for stealing government property in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Raymond Kyle Welsh pleaded guilty on Jan. 3, 2013, to theft of government property and was sentenced to three years of probation today by U.S. District Judge Leonard E. Davis. Welsh was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $222,162.14 and ordered to submit to the forfeiture of $26,588.
According to information presented in court, from January 2003 to September 2010, Welsh concealed and failed to disclose his financial resources and income in order to receive Social Security and Medicaid benefits. Welsh stole approximately $26,588.00 from the Social Security Administration in the form of Social Security Supplemental Income (SSI) payments and $195,574.14 from the Department of Health and Human Services in the form of Medicaid benefits. Welsh admitted that he knew he was not entitled to the benefits and that they belonged to the United States government.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.
Smith County Man Sentenced for Child Pornography ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 45-year-old Flint, Texas, man has been sentenced to federal prison for child pornography violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Barry Porter Griffith pleaded guilty today to possession of child pornography and was then sentenced to 42 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Leonard Davis.According to information presented in court, on Oct. 31, 2012, Texas Department of Criminal Justice network engineers detected significant Internet bandwidth being used by a state-owned computer to view pornography online. The engineers identified the user as Griffith, a state parole officer. They remotely viewed the web-sites that Griffith was accessing and determined that he was viewing child pornography from his office. When approached by investigators from the Office of the Inspector General for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Griffith admitted to the conduct. He later met investigators at his residence, and surrendered two personal computers. Forensic examination of the computers confirmed that they contained images depicting child pornography.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov .
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, the Office of the Inspector General for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Longview Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Coan.
Indian Corporation Pays Record Amount to Settle Allegations of Systemic Visa Fraud and Abuse of Immigration ProcessesRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas – Infosys Corporation, an Indian company involved in consulting, technology, and outsourcing, has agreed to a civil settlement of allegations of systemic visa fraud and abuse of immigration processes by paying a record settlement amount and agreeing to enhanced corporate compliance measures, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales. The $34 million payment made by Infosys as a result of these allegations represents the largest payment ever levied in an immigration case.
Infosys is located in thirty countries including the United States, and in 17 cities in the United States, including a location in Plano, Texas. The Plano location is responsible for handling the immigration practices and procedures for the United States operations of Infosys. Infosys brings foreign nationals into the United States in order to perform work and fulfill contracts with its customers under two visa classification programs relevant to this matter, H-1B and B-1.
According to court documents, the government alleged instances of Infosys circumventing the requirements, limitations, and governmental oversight of the H-1B visa program by knowingly and unlawfully using B-1 visa holders to perform skilled labor in order to fill positions in the United States for employment that would otherwise be performed by United States citizens or require legitimate H-1B visa holders. The government also alleges that Infosys did so in order to increase profits, minimize costs of securing visas, increase flexibility of employee movement, obtain an unfair advantage over competitors, and avoid tax liabilities. Specific allegations include the following:
· Infosys used B-1 visa holders to perform jobs that involved skilled labor that were instead required to be performed by United States citizens or required legitimate H-1B visa holders.
· Infosys submitted “invitation letters” to U.S. Consular Officials that contained false statements regarding the true purpose of a B-1 visa holder’s travel in order to deceive U.S. Consular Officials and secure entry of the visa holder into the United States. These letters often stated that the purpose of travel was for “meetings” or “discussions” when the true purpose was to engage in activities not authorized under a B-1 visa.
· Infosys directed B-1 visa holders to deceive U.S. Consular Officials, including specific instructions to avoid certain terminology, to secure entry of the visa holder into the United States. Infosys created a “Do’s and Don’ts” memorandum that it provided to foreign nationals entering the United States on a B-1 visa that included the following directions: “Do not mention activities like implementation, design & testing, consulting, etc., which sound like work”; “Also do not use words like, work, activity, etc., in the invitation letter”; and “Please do not mention anything about contract rates.”
· Infosys told its foreign nationals to inform U.S. Consular Officials that their destination in the United States was the same as that provided in the Labor Condition Application, notwithstanding the fact that Infosys knew that the destinations had changed.
· Infosys wrote and revised contracts with clients in order to conceal the fact that Infosys was providing B-1 visa holders to perform jobs that involved skilled or unskilled labor that were otherwise required to be performed by United States citizens or required legitimate H-1B visa holders.
· Infosys concealed the fact that B-1 visa holders were performing jobs that involved skilled or unskilled labor that were otherwise required to be performed by United States citizens or required legitimate H-1B visa holders by billing clients for the use of off-shore resources when, in fact, work was being performed by B-1 visa holders in the United States.
· Infosys failed to maintain I-9 records for many of its foreign nationals in the United States in 2010 and 2011 as required by law, including a widespread failure to update and re-verify the employment authorization status of a large percentage of its foreign national employees.
The settlement agreement requires Infosys to make a payment to the United States of $34 million. The agreement was largely predicated on Infosys’s cooperation with the United States during the investigation and on compliance measures taken by Infosys in the areas of B-1 and H-1B visas and I-9 documentation, both prior to and during the course of the investigation. The settlement agreement requires additional auditing for I-9 forms; a reporting requirement for B-1 usage; an agreement to continue to use only detailed invitation letters, and the continued use of corporate disciplinary processes for employees that violate the immigration laws of the United States.
“We will not tolerate actions that mislead the United States and circumvent lawful immigration processes, whether undertaken by a single individual or one of the largest corporations in the world,” said U.S. Attorney Bales. “The H-1B and B-1 visa programs are designed and intended to protect the American worker; and we will vigorously enforce the requirements of those programs.”
David M. Marwell, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Dallas, concurred: “This settlement against Infosys is the largest immigration fine on record. The investigation indicated that Infosys manipulated the visa process and circumvented the requirements, limitations, and governmental oversight of the visa programs. The investigation also showed that more than 80 percent of Infosys’s I-9 forms for 2010 and 2011 contained substantive violations. Ultimately, these actions by Infosys cost American jobs and simultaneously financially hurt companies that sought to follow the laws of this nation. Companies that misuse the visa process can expect to be scrutinized and held accountable.”
The investigation and settlement also earned the praise of George M. Nutwell III, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Houston Field Office, Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Department of State, who said that “the Infosys investigation illustrates the unique role that DSS plays in investigating complex visa fraud cases that reach far beyond U.S. borders. DSS collaborates with our law enforcement partners and is committed to investigating and bringing to justice those who violate the law.”
This case was investigated and the settlement negotiated by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shamoil T. Shipchandler, Alan R. Jackson, and J. Kevin McClendon, and special agents and attorneys from the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Smith County Snake Expert Sentenced for Smuggling Peruvian ReptilesRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 63-year-old Tyler, Texas eco-tourism guide has been sentenced for smuggling live snakes into the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
William Lamar pleaded guilty on June 18, 2013, to importing wildlife taken in violation of foreign law and was sentenced to three years of probation today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider.
According to information presented in court, on Aug. 29, 2012, Lamar imported seven live snakes that he had purchased at a market in Lima, Peru. Lamar smuggled the snakes in his jacket on flights from Lima to Miami, Florida and then to Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport. The next day, after TSA agents refused to let him board a commuter plane to Tyler with the snakes, Lamar traveled aboard a ground transport shuttle from DFW to his home in Tyler. Game Wardens went to Lamar’s residence and seized the snakes.
Peruvian law prohibits the exportation of wild live animals coming from the forest or jungle region unless the exporter has a properly issued ministerial order authorizing the export for either scientific investigation or for cultural diffusion. Lamar admitted that he knew that Peruvian law prohibited the unauthorized exportation of wildlife in a jacket without proper authorization.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Service, the Transportation Security Administration, and the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Department of Public Safety. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
Shooter Sentenced to Life in Prison for Racketeering MurderRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 32-year-old Vidor, Texas man was sentenced today for his role in a March 2011 murder committed in furtherance of the SWS criminal enterprise in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Kenny Don Stanley pleaded guilty on June 25, 2013, to murder in aid of racketeering and was sentenced to life in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone.
According to information presented in court, on Mar. 14, 2011, Stanley, along with Tanner Lynn Bourque, a/k/a “Two Shoes,” a/k/a “Hitman” (33), Kristopher Leigh Guidry, a/k/a “Hollywood” (28), and Vicki Stark-Fitts (49), used a firearm to murder James Lee Sedtal, a/k/a “Lil Bit,” in Liberty County, Texas. The defendants murdered Sedtal on behalf of SWS, after Sedtal assaulted an Aryan Brotherhood of Texas (ABT) associate. ABT was poised to retaliate against SWS, and Bourque, Guidry, Stanley, and Stark-Fitts sought to maintain and increase their position within SWS by murdering Sedtal.
According to court documents, the SWS is a race-based organization operating inside and outside of jails and prisons in Texas and elsewhere. SWS was founded during the 1990s by inmates within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. SWS is also known as “Solid Wood Soldiers” and “Separate White State.” Although the founders established SWS for protection of white inmates and advancement of white supremacy and white separatism, SWS expanded its objectives to include illegal activities for profit, including trafficking methamphetamine and firearms. SWS protects its power, territory, and profits through intimidation and violence, including assaults, robbery, and murder.
From September 2010 to January 2011, SWS members manufactured “shake and bake” methamphetamine for distribution in the Orange County area of Texas. In February 2011, Bourque, Guidry and other SWS members became closely associated with Stark-Fitts, who supplied them with crystal methamphetamine and firearms. Crystal methamphetamine is a purer form of methamphetamine that is imported from Mexico. According to information presented in court, on Mar. 14, 2011, Stanley, Bourque, Guidrey and Stark-Fitts murdered James Lee Sedtal, a/k/a Lil Bit, in connection with the methamphetamine conspiracy.
Guidry, Bourque, and Stark-Fitts pleaded guilty this summer for their respective roles in the murder. Judge Crone sentenced Guidry to life in prison on October 4, 2013. Bourque and Stark-Fitts are awaiting sentencing. Bourque faces life in prison, and Stark-Fitts faces from 360 months to life in prison.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Time Machine Initiative. Time Machine is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, ammunition and body armor, and improving the safety of residents in the Eastern District of Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
The case is being investigated by the ATF, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Bureau of Prisons, DEA, Texas Rangers, Department of Public Safety CID, Texas Department of Criminal Justice OIG, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Hardin County Sheriff’s Office, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Tyler County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and Beaumont Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John B. Ross.Jasper County Man Sentenced for Child Pornography ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 40-year-old Jasper, Texas, man has been sentenced to federal prison for child pornography violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Tracy Jay Chappell pleaded guilty on July 11, 2013 to possession of child pornography and was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone.According to information presented in court, on Apr. 4, 2011, Chappell was identified through his IP (Internet Protocol) address during an undercover operation targeting child pornography distribution. The IP address had files available for any computer user connected to the internet to access using publicly available file sharing software. A federal search warrant was later executed at Chappell’s residence on County Road 136 in Jasper. During the search, a personal computer was seized that contained approximately 1,200 files depicting child pornography. Chappell was indicted by a federal grand jury on Feb. 6, 2013
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigation’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Beaumont Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall L. Fluke.Former President of Port Arthur Chemical Company Sentenced for Federal Crimes Related to Employee DeathsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – The former president of Port Arthur Chemical and Environmental Services, LLC (PACES) has been sentenced for occupational safety crimes which resulted in the death of an employee, announced John M. Bales, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas, and Robert G. Dreher, Acting Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division
Matthew Lawrence Bowman, 41, of Houston, pleaded guilty on May 9, 2013, to violating the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) and making a false statement and was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone. Bowman was also ordered to pay fines in the amount of $5,000.Bowman admitted to not properly protecting PACES employees from exposure to hydrogen sulfide, a poisonous gas resulting in the death of truck driver Joey Sutter on Dec. 18, 2008. In addition, Bowman admitted to directing employees to falsify transportation documents to conceal that the wastewater was coming from PACES after a disposal facility put a moratorium on all shipments from PACES after it received loads containing hydrogen sulfide.
“The government’s prosecution of Matthew Bowman is now complete. While Mr. Bowman is being held accountable for his criminal conduct, and that is appropriate, there is no amount of time in prison; no amount of criminal fine that can be levied that will compensate for the loss of life at PACES. We extend our deepest condolences and well wishes to the friends and family of Mr. Sutter, who died pitilessly and needlessly because of the criminally negligent actions of Matthew Bowman,” said U.S. Attorney John M. Bales. “The agents and prosecutors conducted an outstanding investigation and prosecution.”
“Today’s sentence is a just punishment for Bowman’s actions, which placed workers at unacceptable risk and had fatal consequences,” said Robert G. Dreher, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “The Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to vigorously investigate and prosecute those who violate the laws enacted to ensure the safety of workers handling hazardous materials and to prevent the kind of tragedies that occurred in this case.”
“The sentencing today is a clear signal of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT), and its Office of Inspector General’s (OIG) commitment to protecting the public from illegally transported hazardous materials,” said Max Smith, regional Special Agent-in-Charge, USDOT OIG. “Working with our law enforcement and prosecutorial colleagues we will continue our vigorous efforts to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law those who would seek to disregard the Nation’s transportation laws and endanger the public.”
“Environmental violations are serious crimes, and in a worst-case scenario, they can kill people,” said Ivan Vikin, special Agent in Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Texas. “In this case, a senior manger’s actions led directly to the death of one of his employees. This is why we have laws regarding the safe and legal handling of hazardous materials. Enforcement of these laws must be consistent and uncompromising.”
"When a worker loses his or her life on the job, it has a ripple effect on their families, friends, community and the workplace. Matt Bowman and PACES knowingly violated workplace safety standards that led to Joey Sutter's death," said OSHA's Deputy Regional Administrator Eric Harbin in Dallas. "OSHA standards are in place to protect workers and employers will be held accountable when they fail to follow these standards."
The case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas and the Environmental Crimes Section of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division.
According to information presented in court, Bowman was president and owner of PACES, located in Port Arthur, Texas, and CES Environmental Services (CES) located in Houston. PACES was in operation from November 2008 to November 2010, and was in the business of producing and selling caustic materials to paper mills. The production of caustic materials involved hydrogen sulfide, a poisonous gas. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, hydrogen sulfide is an acute toxic substance that is the leading cause of sudden death in the workplace. Employers are required by OSHA to implement engineering and safety controls to prevent employees from exposure above harmful limits of hydrogen sulfide.
Bowman was responsible for approving and directing PACES production operations, the disposal of hydrogen sulfide wastewater, and ensuring implementation of employee safety precautions. In some cases, Bowman personally handled the investigation of work-related employee injuries, directed the transportation of PACES wastewater, and determined what safety equipment could be purchased or maintained. In the cases at issue, hazardous materials were transported illegally with false documents and without the required placards. Most importantly, the workers were not properly protected from exposure to hazardous gases. The exposure resulted in the deaths of two employees, Joey Sutter and Charles Sittig, who were truck drivers, at the PACES facility on Dec. 18, 2008 and Apr. 14, 2009. Placarding is critical to ensure the safety of first responders in the event of an accident or other highway incident. Bowman and PACES were indicted by a federal grand jury on July 18, 2012.
This case was investigated by EPA Criminal Investigation Division; the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General; the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality - Environmental Crimes Unit, part of the Texas Environmental Enforcement Task Force; the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department - Environmental Crimes Unit; the Houston Police Department - Major Offenders, Environmental Investigations Unit; the Travis County, Texas - District Attorney’s Office; the Harris County, Texas, District Attorney’s Office - Environmental Crimes Division; the Houston Fire Department; OSHA; the U.S. Coast Guard; the Port Arthur Police Department; and the Port Arthur Fire Department.Bowie County Man Sentenced for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 37-year-old Texarkana, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Sonya Lamarcus Hopkins pleaded guilty on June 6, 2013 to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider.
According to information presented in court, on Feb. 28, 2012, Hopkins arranged by telephone to distribute 7 grams of methamphetamine to another individual. The transaction was carried out by another person on behalf of Hopkins in Texarkana, Texas. Hopkins was indicted by a federal grand jury on Sep. 12, 2012 and charged with drug trafficking violations.
This case was investigated by the Bi-State Narcotics Task Force, Texarkana Police Department, Bowie County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.
Collin County Convicted Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas – A 27-year-old McKinney, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Quincy Reshawn Gilstrap pleaded guilty on Aug. 21, 2012, to charges of being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison on Oct. 24, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Richard A. Schell.
According to information presented in court, in December 2011, Gilstrap was arrested by Plano Police for a drug offense and evading arrest and found in possession of a firearm. Further investigation revealed Gilstrap had been previously convicted in Collin County, Texas for evading arrest in 2004, manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance in 2008 and robbery in 2008. Convicted felons are prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition. A federal grand jury returned an indictment in March 2012 charging Gilstrap with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Plano Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey M. Batson.Smith County Man Sentenced for Child Pornography ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 39-year-old Tyler, Texas, man has been sentenced to federal prison for child pornography violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Mark Anthony Hicks pleaded guilty on June 4, 2013 to possession of child pornography and was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Leonard E. Davis.According to information presented in court, on Feb. 28, 2013, federal and local law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Hicks’ residence in Tyler, Texas. A computer hard drive was seized during the search and found to contain more than 100 images and nearly 30 videos of child pornography. Hicks was indicted by a federal grand jury on Mar. 27, 2013 and charged with child pornography violations.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by United States Secret Service and the Longview Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney L. Frank Coan, Jr.Former Henderson Teacher Sentenced for Child Pornography ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 43-year-old Henderson, Texas, man has been sentenced to federal prison for child pornography violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
James Brent Malone, a former Henderson high school English teacher, pleaded guilty on June 11, 2013 to possession of child pornography and was sentenced to 121 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Leonard E. Davis.According to information presented in court, on Jan. 10, 2013, federal and local law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Malone’s residence in Henderson, Texas. A laptop computer and two DVDs were seized during the search and found to contain more than 1,200 images and 40 videos of child pornography. Some of the material included prepubescent children under the age of 12 engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Malone was indicted by a federal grand jury on Mar. 27, 2013 and charged with child pornography violations.
This case was investigated by United States Secret Service and the Longview Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregg A. Marchessault.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.Angelina County Man Guilty of Killing Neches River AlligatorRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 38-year-old Lufkin, Texas, man has pleaded guilty to violating state and federal wildlife laws, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Michael Wayne Scoggin pleaded guilty to killing an animal protected as an endangered species today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Keith F. Giblin.
According to information presented in court, on Apr. 8, 2011, Scoggin shot and killed a 13-foot American alligator, weighing approximately 800 pounds, with a .22 caliber rifle. Scoggin shot the alligator from a canoe he and his girlfriend were traveling in on the Neches River in Trinity County, Texas. Scoggin then tied the alligator alongside the canoe and towed it down river to an area where he and a friend were able to load it on to his truck for transport. In the following days, pictures of Scoggin and others with the dead alligator appeared posted at a local Academy Sporting Goods store and on the internet. Scoggin took the alligator to a Grapeland, Texas taxidermy shop and paid $1,542.53 to have the alligator skull and hide tanned and preserved. The skull, hide and rifle were recovered by federal and state law enforcement officers in March 2012.
It is a violation of Texas law to kill an alligator in Trinity County at any time other than from September 10th to September 30th. Further it is a violation of Texas law to shoot an alligator from a boat in public water. The Endangered Species Act prohibits the taking of any threatened species of fish or wildlife in violation of any federal or state regulation pertaining to such species. Alligators are listed as a threatened species pursuant to the Endangered Species Act.
Scoggin faces up to one year in federal prison and a $100,000.00 fine. A sentencing date has not been set.This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, Houston, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Criminal Investigations Division, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph R. Batte.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. It is both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for its scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on its work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov . Connect with its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/usfws , follow its tweets at www.twitter.com/usfwshq and download photos from its Flickr page at http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwshq .
U.S. Attorney Announces Additional Sherman ProsecutorRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsSHERMAN, Texas – U.S. Attorney John M. Bales announced the hiring of a federal prosecutor assigned to the Sherman office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas.
Assistant U.S. Attorney William Tatum was administered the Oath of Office by U.S. Attorney Bales, today before a small crowd of friends, family, and government officials at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Sherman.
Tatum is a graduate of Texas A&M University and St. Mary’s University School of Law. Tatum began his career in 2002 as an Assistant District Attorney with the Smith County D.A.’s Office before taking a position as an Assistant Attorney General in the Texas Attorney General’s white collar crime and public integrity section. Tatum is no stranger to a federal prosecutor’s office as he has served the last couple years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Texas’ Midland office.
Tatum joins the Sherman office where he will prosecute a wide range of federal crimes including drug trafficking, white collar crime, immigration matters, violent crimes and child pornography.
The Eastern District of Texas is comprised of 43 counties stretching from the Gulf of Mexico to the Oklahoma/Texas border. There are 6 staffed offices located in Beaumont, Lufkin, Tyler, Texarkana, Plano and Sherman with a total of 52 federal prosecutors.
Harrison County Men Sentenced for Drug Trafficking ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsMARSHALL, Texas – Three Marshall, Texas men have been sentenced to federal prison by U.S. District Judge Rodney Gilstrap for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Santiago Carbajal Abelardo, 26, pleaded guilty on May 3, 2013, to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison on Sep. 24, 2013.
Jehovani Abelardo, 21, pleaded guilty on May 3, 2013, to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison on Sep. 24, 2013.
Santos Acuna, 24, pleaded guilty on May 3, 2013, to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of cocaine and was sentenced to 11 months in federal prison on Sep. 24, 2013.
According to information presented in court, from November 2009 to October 2012, the defendants conspired to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine and cocaine in East Texas. Santiago Abelardo admitted to distributing over 35 grams of methamphetamine and possessing a firearm during the conspiracy. Jehovani Abelardo admitted to assisting in the distribution of over 20 grams of methamphetamine as well as attempting to bride a police officer during the conspiracy. Acuna admitted to distributing over 50 grams of cocaine during the conspiracy. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Nov. 7, 2012, charging these defendants and two others with federal drug trafficking violations.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Marshall Police Department and the Harrison County District Attorney’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen Hurst.Smith County Man Guilty in Mail Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 42-year-old Tyler, Texas man has pleaded guilty to mail fraud violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Muhammad Sarfraz Ashraf pleaded guilty to an Information charging him with conspiracy to commit mail fraud on Sep. 19, 2013 before U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love.According to information presented in court, from Nov. 2010 to June 2011, Ashraf, who owned and operated an automobile repair and maintenance shop in Tyler, conspired with others to cause the Smith County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office to mail false certificate of title application packages to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. The conspiracy was devised in order to obtain fraudulent vehicle titles and unlawfully avoid payment of sales taxes. Specifically, Ashraf would omit the sales price on applications and indicate that the specific transfer was a gift. Ashraf also falsified dates so as to make it appear transactions occurred prior to a change in Texas law regarding when transfers were considered gifts for tax purposes.
Ashraf faces up to 5 years in federal prison and restitution. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Smith County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Smith County District Attorney’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney L. Frank Coan, Jr.
Orange County Residents Guilty of Federal Racketeering Crimes “Whites Only” Enterprise Dealt Methamphetamine and MurderRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – Three Vidor, Texas residents have pleaded guilty to racketeering charges related to their association with a “white’s only” criminal enterprise that engaged in methamphetamine distribution and murder in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Juanette Marie Cunningham, a/k/a Netty, 46, Michael Taylor Word, 45, and Erica Nicole Parrott, 27, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine on Sep. 18, 2013, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Zack Hawthorn.
Five other defendants, Craig Pipps, a/k/a Lone Wolf, 40, of Vidor, Mikell Allen Cunningham, a/k/a Mikey, 28, of Vidor, Ricky Allen Nichols, 54, of Vidor, Cassi Diane Hetzel, 37, of Silsbee, Texas and Mack Langston Warner, 33, of Silsbee, pleaded guilty to the same charge earlier this week.
The eight were named along with four others in a seven-count superseding indictment that was returned by a federal grand jury on Aug. 7, 2013. According to the indictment, Pipps, Kenny Don Stanley, 25, of Vidor, Tanner Lynn Bourque, a/k/a Two Shoes, a/k/a Hitman, 33, of Vidor, Kristopher Leigh Guidry, a/k/a Hollywood, 28, of Vidor, and Vicki Stark-Fitts, 49, of Hull, Texas, participated in the operation and management of the “SWS” gang.
According to the indictment, the SWS is a race-based organization operating inside and outside of jails and prisons in Texas and elsewhere. SWS was founded during the 1990s by inmates within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. SWS is also known as “Solid Wood Soldiers” and “Separate White State.” Although the founders established SWS for protection of white inmates and advancement of white supremacy and white separatism, SWS expanded its objectives to include illegal activities for profit, including trafficking methamphetamine and firearms. SWS protects its power, territory, and profits through intimidation and violence, including assaults, robbery, and murder.
According to information presented in court, Pipps used his position as president of SWS to encourage SWS members and associates to enrich SWS through criminal activity including the distribution of methamphetamine. In August 2010, Pipps and Guidry agreed that Guidry, Bourque and other SWS members would raise money for Pipps and SWS through criminal activities including the sale of methamphetamine. The stated goal of the conspiracy was to raise $30,000 so that Pipps and SWS could purchase real property for a “separatist community.” Under the agreement, Pipps was to receive control of the funds upon his impending release from federal prison.
From September 2010 to January 2011, members manufactured “shake and bake” methamphetamine for distribution in the Orange County area of Texas. In February 2011, Bourque, Guidry and other SWS members became closely associated with Stark-Fitts, who supplied them with crystal methamphetamine and firearms. Crystal methamphetamine is a purer form of methamphetamine that is imported from Mexico. According to information presented in court, on Mar. 14, 2011, Stanley, Bourque, Guidrey and Stark-Fitts murdered James Lee Sedtal, a/k/a Lil Bit, in connection with the methamphetamine conspiracy.
The eight defendants pleading guilty this week face up to 40 years in federal prison. Earlier this summer, Stanley, Bourque, and Guidry pleaded guilty to murder in aid of racketeering. In connection with their guilty pleas, Bourque, Guidry, and Stanley admitted that they sought to maintain and increase their position within SWS by murdering Sedtal. Bourque, Guidry, and Stanley face a punishment of life imprisonment. Stark-Fitts pleaded guilty to a racketeering violation and faces up to life in federal prison. Sentencing dates have not been set.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Time Machine Initiative. Time Machine is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, ammunition and body armor, and improving the safety of residents in the Eastern District of Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
The case is being investigated by the ATF, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Bureau of Prisons, DEA, Texas Rangers, Department of Public Safety CID, Texas Department of Criminal Justice OIG, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Hardin County Sheriff’s Office, Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, Tyler County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and Beaumont Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John B. Ross.Manager of Metal Recovery Business Sentenced for Environmental ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas – A 57-year-old Quinlan, Texas man has been sentenced for environmental violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
William “Bill” Lafon Musgrove pleaded guilty on Aug. 7, 2013, to negligent release of an extremely hazardous substance and was sentenced to 36 months of probation today by U.S. Magistrate Judge Don D. Bush. Musgrove was also fined $10,000.
According to information presented in court, in June of 2011, Musgrove was the vice president of and operations manager of Industrial Precious Metals Recovery Incorporated (IPMR), in Royse City, Texas. During that time, he allowed their metal recovery process to release approximately ten pounds of Nitrogen Oxides, or “NOx” within a 24 hour time period into the ambient air at ground level through an open doorway, instead of utilizing the company’s air scrubber which was broken at the time. Musgrove admitted that he should have known that releasing NOx in that manner would place people in imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury. Fortunately, no actual injuries occurred.
Federal environmental regulations characterize Nitrogen Oxides as an “extremely hazardous substance.” At the time, the IPMR facility in Royse City was adjacent to other commercial facilities with employees that were present during the NOx emissions. The facility has since closed.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigations Division, Region VI, Dallas, Texas, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Environmental Crimes Unit and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.Colorado Corporation Settles Allegations of Trade Secret Theft in the Eastern District of TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas – A Colorado corporation has agreed to settle allegations of trade secret theft in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
ADA-ES, Inc., and ADA Environmental Solutions, LLC, (collectively, “ADA”), entered into a non-prosecution agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office accepting responsibility for their actions, pledging to continue a culture of corporate compliance, and continuing to make payments to the victim corporation from whom confidential information had been acquired.
Between approximately 2000 and 2006, ADA and another corporation agreed to jointly develop, test, and market a product known as activated carbon in North America; activated carbon was, and is, used to remove mercury emissions from waste gas created through the manufacturing process of certain industrial products. According to the non-prosecution agreement, ADA inappropriately maintained the confidential information that it had been provided by its partner corporation.
The agreement between ADA and the U.S. Attorney’s Office requires ADA to provide training programs and compliance checks designed to ensure that proper safeguards are in place to protect confidential information, and provide periodic progress reports to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. On its own, and prior to the government’s investigation, ADA employed general counsel to oversee these efforts. The agreement also requires that ADA abide by the terms of a settlement agreement between it and the partner corporation, which required a $40.5 million payment to the partner corporation as well as a running royalty on ADA’s sale of activated carbon until 2018.
“Information is akin to currency in the modern world. Like individuals, corporations that acquire protected information have a duty to guard its confidentiality,” said U.S. Attorney Bales. “We intend to be vigilant to ensure that the acquisition and use of such information is handled appropriately.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and negotiated by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shamoil T. Shipchandler and J. Kevin McClendon.Arkansas Man Sentenced for Texarkana Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTEXARKANA, Texas – A 49-year-old Cove, Arkansas man has been sentenced to federal prison for bank robbery in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Joe Elva Whisenant pleaded guilty on June 20, 2013, to two bank robberies and was sentenced to 77 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael Schneider. Whisenant was also ordered to pay restitution of $23,153.
According to information presented in court, on July 24, 2012, Whisenant entered the lobby of the Wells Fargo Bank branch in Texarkana, Texas, and placed a black zippered bag on the counter in front of the teller and handed the teller a note demanding money. Whisenant then fled the bank with approximately $738. A short time later, he was arrested while driving a moped. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Aug. 1, 2012, charging Whisenant with bank robbery.After Whisenant was arrested for the Wells Fargo robbery in Texas, law enforcement officers were able to obtain evidence connecting Whisenant to the Nov. 28, 2011, robbery of the Bancorp South Bank branch in Texarkana, Arkansas. Whisenant robbed the Arkansas bank of $23,153. A federal grand in the Western District of Arkansas returned an indictment on Jan. 13, 2013, charging Whisenant in that bank robbery. On Feb. 28, 2013, the case was transferred to the jurisdiction of the Eastern District of Texas.
These cases were investigated by the FBI, the Texarkana, Texas, Police Department, the Bowie County Sheriff’s Office, and the Texarkana, Arkansas, Police Department. These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allen Hurst and Jonathan D. Ross.
North Texas Men Guilty of Federal Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – Two North Texas men have pleaded guilty to federal firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Colten David Barrow, 22, of Quinlan, Texas, and Craig Marcus Cooper, 42, of Farmersville, Texas, each pleaded guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love. Barrow pleaded guilty to attempting to sell a machinegun and Cooper pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a machinegun.
According to information presented in court, on Jan. 31, 2012, Barrow and Cooper traveled together to Duke’s Truck Stop on Highway 64 in Van Zandt County, Texas to meet an individual interested in buying the machinegun. The defendants intended to sell the firearm to the individual for $10,000. However, the buyer was actually an undercover federal agent. The defendants were detained and the 9 mm, fully automatic machine gun with an attached silencer was seized. Further investigation revealed Cooper was a felon having been previously convicted of felony criminal mischief in Collin County, Texas in 2011. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Mar. 27, 2013, charging the defendants with firearms violations.Barrow and Cooper each face up to 10 years in federal prison at sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set. A third defendant is awaiting trial.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, ammunition and body armor, and improving the safety of residents in the Eastern District of Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.Local Police Departments Receive Funds from Dismantled Internet PharmacyRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas – The federal government provided nearly $1 million in forfeiture proceeds to local police departments for their assistance in dismantling a wide-scale Internet-based pharmacy, announced Eastern District of Texas U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
U.S. Attorney Bales presented checks totaling $897,352.26 to the following agencies at a ceremony on Sep. 10, 2013, at the U.S. Attorney’s Office:
Rowlett Police Department $597,142.74
Duncanville Police Department 139,702.37
Mesquite Police Department 102,786.40
Irving Police Department 25,118.07
Dallas Police Department 22,454.05
Texas Joint Counterdrug Task Force 10,148.63The Alton Bay, New Hampshire Police Department also received $27,812.74 in forfeiture proceeds from this case.
The forfeiture funds are the result of the investigation and conviction of New Yorker David Allen Vogel. In the summer of 2010, Vogel was convicted by a jury in the Eastern District of Texas of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and two counts of money laundering. On Jan. 7, 2011, Vogel was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison and ordered to pay a money judgment in the amount of $24,743,000 and forfeiture of $4,376,471.39, which had already been seized from six separate bank accounts. These funds represent the final distribution of equitable sharing funds in this case. In addition to the funds noted above, these agencies have already received significant additional forfeiture funds in this case.
Vogel, the owner and operator of Madison Pain Clinic, conspired with others to operate an Internet-based pharmacy through which they distributed millions of hydrocodone pills and other controlled substances without a valid prescription. Vogel used proceeds from the illegal enterprise to purchase a multi-million dollar condominium in Trump Towers in New York City and rare coins, including a $36,000 penny. Vogel’s co-defendants were also convicted and received federal prison sentences.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorneys Stevan Buys, Maureen Smith and Kevin Collins.Collin County Man Sentenced for Customs ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsSHERMAN, Texas – A 44-year-old Chinese national living in Plano, Texas has been sentenced for customs violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Shichen Wang pleaded guilty on Feb. 14, 2013 to the misdemeanor offense of negligent attempted transportation of wildlife sold in violation of law and was given an 11 month probated sentence on Sep. 10, 2013, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Amos L. Mazzant.
According to information presented in court, on April 19, 2011, Wang attempted to ship two elephant ivory carvings, daffodil flowers and a cylinder brush pot, in two separate packages that were addressed to two different locations in the Republic of China. Both of the packages were falsely labeled to describe their contents as “wood carvings” which is a violation of federal laws that protect specified species of wildlife. The packages were intercepted by wildlife inspectors who were inspecting International Express Mail packages that were consigned for export from the United States. Wang was also fined $3,000 and must forfeit the seized carvings to the government.
"One of the primary objectives of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is to combat the international smuggling of wildlife from the U. S.,” said Southwest Region’s Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Chavez. “This seizure was a great example of a multi-agency interdiction effort by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement and the U. S. Customs and Border Protection.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, Fort Worth, and Rosemont, Illinois Office along with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Rosemont, Illinois Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. It is both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for its scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on its work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov . Connect with its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/usfws , follow its tweets at www.twitter.com/usfwshq , and download photos from its Flickr page at http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwshq .Shreveport Man Sentenced for Illegally Transporting Deer in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 57-year-old Shreveport, LA, man has been sentenced to pay over $14,000.00 in restitution and serve 48 hours of community service as conditions of a two year probated sentence for federal wildlife violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Stephen Anderson Sipes Jr. pleaded guilty on June 10, 2013, to negligent transportation of wildlife and was sentenced today by U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love.
According to information presented in court, Sipes had an ownership interest in a high-fence ranch in Sanderson, Texas. On Jan. 14, 2010, Sipes transported and possessed 14 live, illegally imported whitetail deer valued at over $350.00 each from Carthage, Missouri to the ranch in Sanderson, which is prohibited by Texas law. The fair market value of the illegally imported whitetail deer was approximately $5,650.00.Sipes must pay $14,016.49 in restitution to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation to compensate the agency for costs incurred in protecting the native deer from the threat of disease carried by the Missouri whitetails.
This case was investigated by the Special Operations Unit of the Texas Parks and Wildlife and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
Jefferson County Woman Sentenced for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 38-year-old Beaumont woman has been sentenced to federal prison for bank fraud violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Jeanie Marie Smith Henges pleaded guilty on Nov. 20, 2012 to seven counts of bank fraud and was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone.
According to information presented in court, in March 2011, April 2011, April 2010, May 2010, March 2010, February 2010, and November 2008, Henges devised a scheme to fraudulently obtained funds from the following federally insured financial institutions: Anahuac National Bank, Eastex Federal Credit Union (FCU), Community Bank, MidSouth Bank, Education First FCU, Mobile Oil FCU and Wachovia Bank. Henges executed the scheme by presenting one or more fraudulent checks for deposit. According to the seven-count Information, the intended losses amount to approximately $72,419, and the actual losses amount to approximately $32,445.
Henges was also fined $4,000. A hearing has been set for Sep. 21, 2013 to determine restitution.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall L. Fluke.
Angelina County Man Sentenced for Robbing Post OfficeRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 30-year-old Lufkin, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for robbing a post office in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Keith DeWayne Bailey pleaded guilty on June 19, 2013, to post office robbery and was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark.
According to information presented in court, on Oct. 1, 2012, Bailey entered the United States Post Office in Woodville, Texas and handed a note to a postal employee indicating he had a concealed weapon, he was robbing the post office, and demanding the money in the register. The postal employee went to the back of the post office and gave the note to her supervisor. When the postal employee returned to the front of the post office, Bailey had already left the building. The postal employee called 911 and gave a detailed description of the suspect. Less than 10 minutes later, a law enforcement officer responding to the scene observed a suspect matching the description a few blocks from the post office. Bailey was arrested without incident and admitted to attempting to rob the post office.A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Oct. 3, 2012 charging Bailey with federal violations.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Woodville Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph R. Batte.
Harold’s House Hosting First East Texas Child Abuse ConferenceRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsLUFKIN – Harold’s House is hosting the East Texas Child Abuse Conference on Sept. 12-13, 2013 at Courtyard by Marriott. This is the first conference of its kind in East Texas, bringing together federal, state and local officials across all fields of investigation, prosecution and victim advocacy to share resources, best practices and training on crimes involving the physical or sexual abuse or neglect of children.
“We are excited to offer this great opportunity to our partners in law enforcement, the court system and child services,” said Laura Squiers, Executive Director. “We all want the best outcomes for children suffering abuse. This conference will help us achieve that goal by putting new information and resources in the hands of those working on the front lines and behind the scenes to protect children suffering abuse.”
Since its beginning 10 years ago, Harold’s House has served thousands of children suffering abuse. As a Children’s Advocacy Center, its goal is to lessen the trauma of children suffering abuse through a team approach to child-centered case response. The Center also works to empower the community to end abuse through prevention training and at-risk parenting classes offered free of charge.
The East Texas Child Abuse Conference features speakers from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, U.S. Marshal’s Office, Office of the Attorney General, Angelina County District Attorney’s Office, Lufkin Police Department, Child Protective Services, the City of Lufkin, Harold’s House and the TLL Temple Foundation SANE Program.
The conference features plenary sessions including case reviews and training and program presentations, plus resource information and networking opportunities. Topics include: cybercrime, connecting to resources, CACs, SANEs, Project Safe Childhood, CPS, child pornography and exploitation, family care, case studies, multidisciplinary teams, helping children heal, Darkness to Light’s Prevent Now! and sex offender fugitive investigation and failure to identify as a sex offender.
The event is open to members of law enforcement, court officials, social workers, counselors, child advocates and family crisis workers, and offers TCLEOSE/CEU credits through Angelina College. Registration is required for the event and seating is limited. Contact Harold’s House at (936) 634-1999 to register by phone or request a registration form. Follow updates at: www.facebook.com/haroldhouse.org.
Mexican National Sentenced in East Texas Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsMARSHALL, Texas – A 29-year-old Sinaloa, Mexico man currently residing in Marshall, Texas, has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Joeli Higuera Fernandez pleaded guilty on May 3, 2013, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison on Aug. 28, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Rodney Gilstrap. Fernandez was also ordered to submit to forfeiture of $15,000 in currency.
According to information presented in court, from March 2010 to October 2012, Fernandez was involved in a conspiracy to possess and distribute methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Texas. Fernandez admitted to distributing 101.7 grams of actual methamphetamine during this time. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Nov. 7, 2012, charging Fernandez and three others with drug trafficking violations.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Marshall Police Department and the Harrison County District Attorney’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen Hurst.
Mexican Couple Sentenced for Harrison County Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsMARSHALL, Texas – A couple from Mexico currently residing in Marshall, Texas, have been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Julia Flores Saucedo, 33, of Guerrero, Mexico, pleaded guilty on Jan. 20, 2013, to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison on Aug. 28, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Rodney Gilstrap.
Her common-law husband, Oscar Diaz-Mendoza, 35, of Guerrero, Mexico, pleaded guilty on Feb. 28, 2013, to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison on Aug. 28, 2013, Judge Gilstrap.
According to information presented in court, from July 2011 to October 2012, the couple was involved in a conspiracy to possess and distribute methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Texas. Saucedo admitted to distributing 14.7 grams of methamphetamine on Aug. 24, 2011, in Marshall, Texas. Diaz-Mendoza admitted to distributing 15 grams of methamphetamine on Aug. 4, 2011, in Karnack, Texas.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Oct. 3, 2012, charging the couple and Melecio Nunez-Duque with drug trafficking violations. Nunez-Duque pleaded guilty on Aug. 6, 2013, to distributing 59.6 grams of methamphetamine and is awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Marshall Police Department and the Harrison County District Attorney’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen Hurst.
Wood County Man Guilty of East Texas Drug Trafficking ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 40-year-old Mineola, Texas man has pleaded guilty to drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Larry James Hooks, Jr., pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine today before U.S. Magistrate Judge K. Nicole Mitchell.
According to information presented in court, on July 19, 2012, Hooks conspired with others to acquire and distribute methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Texas and elsewhere. Hooks admitted to being responsible for assisting in the distribution of more than 34.8 grams of pure methamphetamine. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Mar. 27, 2013, charging Hooks and two others with drug trafficking violations.
Hooks faces a minimum of five years in federal prison at sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Canton Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Baldwin.