Eastern District of Texas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Fort Worth Man Sentenced to 51 Months for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 39-year-old Fort Worth, Texas man has been sentenced to 51 months in federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Ray Lee Ransom pleaded guilty on April 20, 2012 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute hydrocodone, alprazolam and promethazine with codeine. Ransom was sentenced to a total of 51 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider.
According to information presented in court, from May, 2009 through 2011, Ransom conspired with others to purchase and distribute hydrocodone, alprazolam and promethazine with codeine. Ransom and his co-conspirators purchased these controlled substances at numerous pharmacies in cities located throughout the Eastern District of Texas and in other locations, utilizing fraudulent prescriptions. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on November 2, 2011, charging 5 individuals, including Ransom, with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute the drugs. All of the co-defendants have been sentenced.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.Fairfield Man Pleads Guilty to Being A Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTraffic stop leads to federal conviction
TYLER, Texas – A 34 year old Fairfield man has pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Victor Vasquez pleaded guilty today in U.S. Magistrate Judith Guthrie’s court to charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm. A federal grand jury indicted Vasquez for the offense on October 3, 2012. Vasquez admitted that on April 4, 2012 he was stopped by a police officer in Rusk, Texas for speeding. During the course of the stop, the officer determined that Vasquez had been drinking alcoholic beverages and Vasquez was arrested for DWI. Following the arrest, the officer inventoried Vasquez’s vehicle and found a 7.62x39 mm, semi-automatic rifle and ammunition for the rifle. The next day, a Rusk detective determined that Vasquez had a prior felony conviction in Kansas for Attempted Aggravated Burglary. A search warrant for Vasquez’s vehicle led to the discovery of a short-barrel, 12 gauge shotgun and a dozen 12 gauge shotgun shells under the back seat. Vasquez must forfeit the seized weapons and ammunition.
Vasquez is facing up to ten years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.This case was investigated by the Rusk Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Tyler Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
Smith County, Texas Man Sentenced for Dealing Cocaine in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 41-year-old Lindale, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking crimes in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Christopher Florence pleaded guilty on Sep. 11, 2012, to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and was sentenced to 38 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Leonard Davis.
According to information presented in court, on Jan. 27, 2011, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a residence on County road 141 in Overton, Rusk County, Texas during which Florence was observed attempting to discard a semi-automatic pistol, $1,757 in cash and approximately 6.16 grams of cocaine base in the yard of the residence. Florence admitted to possessing the cocaine with the intent to distribute it to others in the area. Florence was indicted by a federal grand jury on Sep. 15, 2011.
This case was investigated by the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
Smith County Man Sentenced for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsMARSHALL, Texas – A 52-year-old Hawkins, Texas man, formerly of Louisiana, has been sentenced to federal prison for bank robbery in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Robin Marion Allen pleaded guilty on Sep. 11, 2012, to bank robbery and was sentenced to 160 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Rodney Gilstrap.According to information presented in court, on June 25, 2012, Allen borrowed a car and drove to the Wells Fargo Bank on East Main Street in Atlanta, Texas. Allen approached a bank teller and gave the teller a hand-written note with instructions to fill a black bag with cash. The teller placed $1,944 in cash in the bag and returned it to Allen. Allen was arrested on June 27, 2012 in Atlanta, Texas. Allen was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 11, 2012 and charged with bank robbery.
This case was investigated by FBI and the Atlanta Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen Hurst.Smith County Man and Woman Guilty of Methamphetamine ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A Tyler, Texas man and woman have pleaded guilty to federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Juan Dedias Herrera, 29, and Lamanda McCoy, 34, both pleaded guilty to the distribution of more than 50 grams of pure methamphetamine today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith K. Guthrie.
According to information presented in court, on Oct. 31, 2011, Herrera agreed to acquire and distribute methamphetamine with another person. McCoy admitted to being in possession of methamphetamine on Apr.20, 2011.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Feb. 1, 2012 charging Herrera and McCoy with federal drug trafficking crimes.
Herrera faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison. McCoy faces up to 20 years in federal prison at sentencing. Sentencing dates have not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Smith County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Baldwin.
Nacogdoches County Man Sentenced for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 26-year-old Nacogdoches, 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.
Rodney Stevenson pleaded guilty on Aug. 29, 2012, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of crack cocaine and was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark.
According to information presented in court, from 2008 to June 20, 2012, Donald Dixon, a.k.a. “Black”, Cedrick Fowler, a.k.a. “C” and “C-Murder”, Kerry Wayne Griffin, a.k.a. “Big Boy”, Omar Paunetto, Jose Angel Bustillos, Michael John Pereira, Rodney Stevenson, a.k.a. “Arod”, Darius Thorn, a.k.a. “Bs” and “Beez”, Tremaine Smith and Anthony Fowler conspired to traffic cocaine and crack cocaine throughout East Texas.
Stevenson's role in the organization was to assist Cedrick Fowler in acquisition of cocaine and the distribution of cocaine base. Stevenson traveled with Cedrick Fowler on one or more occasions to purchase cocaine from Donald Dixon. On May 25, 2012, investigators executed an arrest warrant at Stevenson’s apartment and detained him after he attempted to flee. They found C. Fowler in a second bedroom of the apartment and Stevenson’s girlfriend in his bedroom. Underneath a pillow on Stevenson’s bed, agents recovered a FEG, 9mm, Model P9R, semiautomatic pistol. They also found 4 pounds of marijuana in the bedroom closet and a small amount of cocaine in a kitchen cabinet. Stevenson was responsible for distributing over 5 kilograms of cocaine.
On June 20, 2012, a federal grand jury returned a 10-count indictment charging 10 defendants, including Stevenson, with drug trafficking violations.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.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nacogdoches Police Department, and the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.
Marion County Woman Sentenced for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsMARSHALL, Texas – A 45-year-old Jefferson, Texas woman has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Tracy Renee Hampton pleaded guilty on Mar. 27, 2012, to possession of pseudoephedrine with intent to manufacture methamphetamine and was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Rodney Gilstrap.
According to information presented in court, Hampton was involved in a conspiracy with others to purchase cold pills containing pseudoephedrine at multiple pharmacies across East Texas.
Hampton was indicted by a federal grand jury on Feb. 1, 2012 and charged with federal drug trafficking violations
This case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen Hurst.Jefferson County Man Sentenced for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 39-year-old Nederland, 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.
George Alexander Faulk pleaded guilty on Oct. 11, 2012, to possession with intent to distribute over 5 grams of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Thad Heartfield.
According to information presented in court, on June 20, 2011, Faulk sold an “8-ball” (3.5 grams) of methamphetamine to another person for $300 at Faulk’s residence. On Jan. 18, 2012, officers executed an arrest warrant for Faulk at his residence for delivery of methamphetamine. Officers located Faulk and he was arrested without incident. Officers asked if he was in possession of any methamphetamine or if any methamphetamine was inside his residence. Faulk advised methamphetamine was located in a safe in his kitchen, and he provided the combination to officers. Inside the safe, officers located a clear bag containing 20.83 grams of 97% pure d-methamphetamine hydrochloride. Nearby, a black nylon bag contained 14 individually packaged bags containing a total of 13.94 grams of 94% pure d-methamphetamine hydrochloride. Many of the individually packaged bags were labeled with “G” or “1/16”, which indicates 1 gram or 1/16 of an ounce (1.75 grams). Digital scales, hypodermic syringes, a metal spoon, and several empty re-sealable bags were also located.
Faulk was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 16, 2012 and charged with federal drug trafficking violations
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson County Narcotics Task Force and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.Houston Man Sentenced for Firearms Violations in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 29-year-old Houston man has been sentenced to federal prison for firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Michael John Pereira pleaded guilty on Oct. 3, 2012, to possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime and was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark.
According to information presented in court, from 2008 to June 20, 2012, Donald Dixon (Dixon), a.k.a. “Black”, Cedrick Fowler, a.k.a. “C” and “C-Murder” (C. Fowler), Kerry Wayne Griffin (Griffin), a.k.a. “Big Boy”, Omar Paunetto, Jose Angel Bustillos, Michael John Pereira, Rodney Stevenson (Stevenson), a.k.a. “Arod”, Darius Thorn (Thorn), a.k.a. “Bs” and “Beez”, Tremaine Smith (Smith) and Anthony Fowler (A. Fowler) conspired to traffic cocaine and "crack" cocaine base throughout East Texas.
Pereira's role in the organization was to work at the direction of Dixon. Pereira’s job was to provide protection for Dixon when drug transactions were occurring. On April 30, 2012, agents conducted surveillance of a controlled purchase of 2 kilograms of cocaine. During the course of the investigation, officers conducted a stop on Pereira's vehicle and found him in possession of multiple firearms and ammunition, including:
-A Sig Sauer, Sig 516, carbine assault rifle, serial number 20A009905;
-A S&W, M&P, assault rifle, serial number 93683;
-A Colt, Anaconda, .44 caliber gun, serial number MM31387;
-A S&W, SW9VE pistol, serial number DUY4897;
-A Two S&W magazines for a 9mm firearm; two Aris magazines with a 30-round capacity;
-A 29-round Glock magazine;
-A .45 caliber Clock magazine;
-A Two 100-round capacity drum magazines for an assault rifle; and
-Assorted ammunition.
On June 20, 2012, a federal grand jury returned a 10-count indictment charging 10 defendants, including Pereira, with multiple violations.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.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nacogdoches Police Department, and the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.
###Gregg County Man Sentenced to 40 Years for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 39-year-old Longview, Texas man has been sentenced to 40 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Spencer Garod Elam was convicted by a jury on Oct. 3, 2012, of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute hydrocodone, two counts of possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, felon in possession of a firearm, and use of a communications facility to facilitate a felony. Elam was sentenced to a total of 480 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Leonard E. Davis.
According to information presented in court, Elam was arrested on May 16, 2011 following a lengthy investigation into a drug trafficking enterprise in Gregg County, Texas. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on May 11, 2011, charging 13 Longview residents, including Elam, with multiple drug and gun violations.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Gregg County C.O.D.E. Unit, the Gregg County Sheriff’s Office and the Longview Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard L. Moore.Former Wood County Rancher Sentenced for Selling Mortgaged CattleRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 26-year-old Ainsworth, Nebraska man has been sentenced for misapplying funds owed to the Farm Services Agency in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Michael Kord Chapman pleaded guilty on Aug. 22, 2012 to conversion of mortgaged property and was sentenced to five years probation today by U.S. District Judge Leonard Davis. Chapman was also ordered to pay restitution of $83,622.42 to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Services Agency.
According to information presented in court, between Feb. 18, 2011 and Apr. 7, 2011, Chapman sold approximately 158 head of cattle valued at over $83,400.00 that had been pledged as collateral on a loan from the Farm Services Agency. Instead of paying the loan, Chapman kept the proceeds of the sale for himself and converted them to his own use.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
California Man Sentenced for Luggage Loaded with Meth at Train StationRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 37-year-old Brawley, CA, 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.
Hercel Vernoy Shultz, III, pleaded guilty on Sep. 5, 2012, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Leonard Davis.
According to information presented in court, on Feb. 24, 2012, Shultz was arrested after he was found in possession of over 400 grams of methamphetamine which was in his luggage at the Amtrak train station in Longview, Texas. Before his arrest, Shultz had been traveling from Yuma, Arizona to Longview.
Shultz was indicted by a federal grand jury on Mar. 8, 2012 and charged with federal drug trafficking violations
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, DEA Task Force, Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Smith County Precinct 5 Constable’s Office and the Longview Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen Hurst.Collin County Man Guilty of Customs ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsChinese national attempted to smuggle ivory falsely labeled as “wood carvings”
SHERMAN, Texas – A 44-year-old Plano, Texas man has pleaded guilty to negligently attempting to smuggle ivory carvings from the United States, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Shichen Wang pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor offense of negligent attempted transportation of wildlife sold in violation of law today before 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. An information was filed on Nov. 29, 2012, charging Wang with federal violations.
Wang faces up to one year in federal prison and a $100,000.00 fine.This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, Fort Worth, Texas and Rosemont, Illinois Office and 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, download photos from its Flickr page at http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwshq. ####Three Provident Executives Guilty in Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas – Three more executives from Provident Royalties, Inc. have pleaded guilty in connection with an investment fraud scheme in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Brendan W. Coughlin, 46, of Dallas, Henry D. Harrison, 47, of Dallas, and W. Mark Miller, 59, of Plano, Texas, each acknowledged their roles in the multi-million dollar oil and gas investment fraud scheme.
According to documents filed in court, Coughlin and Harrison founded and controlled Provident, and Miller served as its Chief Financial Officer and later, as President. Between Jan. 1, 2009, and Feb. 3, 2009, Coughlin and Harrison conspired with others to defraud investors throughout the United States of $2.3 million. Specifically, Coughlin, Harrison, and other individuals made materially false representations and failed to disclose material facts to their investors in order to induce the investors into providing payments to Provident. Among these false representations were statements that funds invested would be used only for the project for which those funds were raised; among the material facts omitted from disclosure was that funds from investors in later oil and gas projects were being used to pay individuals who invested in earlier oil and projects. Miller knew that the crime had occurred but failed to report it to the authorities and instead took affirmative action – authorizing the lulling payments to investors – to conceal the crime from discovery.
Coughlin, Harrison, and Miller join two other Provident principals who have been held accountable for their crimes. Joseph Blimline, 35, pleaded guilty in connection with the scheme and was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison. Provident CEO/founder Paul R. Melbye, 47, pleaded guilty in connection with the scheme and faces up to five years in federal prison.
Coughlin and Harrison face up to five years in federal prison for their roles in the conspiracy. Miller faces up to three years in federal prison.
This law enforcement action is part of President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force.
President Obama established the interagency Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes. The task force includes representatives from a broad range of federal agencies, regulatory authorities, inspectors general, and state and local law enforcement who, working together, bring to bear a powerful array of criminal and civil enforcement resources. The task force is working to improve efforts across the federal executive branch, and with state and local partners, to investigate and prosecute significant financial crimes, ensure just and effective punishment for those who perpetrate financial crimes, combat discrimination in the lending and financial markets, and recover proceeds for victims of financial crimes.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shamoil T. Shipchandler. ####Gregg County Woman Sentenced for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 23-year-old Longview, Texas, 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.
Amanda Henderson pleaded guilty on Nov. 6, 2012 to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider. Henderson must also pay restitution in the amount of $14,659.25.
According to information presented in court, beginning in May 2011, Henderson and co-defendant, Mark Alan McCullars, created counterfeit checks which appeared to be payroll checks issued by businesses in East Texas. They also created fraudulent drivers’ licenses so that they could cash the counterfeit checks at check-cashing businesses. McCullars and Henderson cashed over 100 fraudulent checks resulting in a loss of $14,659.25 to check cashing businesses in East Texas. They were indicted by a federal grand jury on May 11, 2012. McCullars was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison on Feb. 6, 2013.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.
####Gregg County Man Guilty of Possessing Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas - A 51-year-old Longview, Texas man has pleaded guilty to federal firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Kym David Pearce pleaded guilty to possession of a stolen firearm today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith K. Guthrie.
According to information presented in court, on May 20, 2012, a federal warrant was executed for Pearce’s arrest at his residence on Virgie Street in Longview, Texas. As Pearce was being arrested, Gregg County CODE agents observed several firearms in the residence. A search of the residence resulted in the discovery of eight firearms and several rounds of ammunition. Pearce admitted that he knew at least one of the firearms in his residence was stolen. Pearce was indicted by a federal grand jury on Oct. 3, 2012
Pearce faces up to 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case was investigated by the Gregg County Organized Drug Enforcement (CODE) Unit, and 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.Metroplex Agencies Reap Benefits of Major Marijuana Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsGARLAND, Texas – The dismantling of a major marijuana trafficking organization has resulted in the distribution of significant assets to five Metroplex law enforcement agencies in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
In October 2010, law enforcement agencies became aware of a drug trafficking organization that was responsible for moving large amounts of marijuana and cash between the Dallas, Texas area and various points in Arizona. On Dec. 4, 2010, members of the drug trafficking organization were observed removing an air conditioning unit from a horse trailer to reveal a hidden compartment used to hide currency, marijuana and firearms. Law enforcement officers moved in and arrested members of the drug trafficking organization. They also recovered two rifles and a firearm on the front seat of a vehicle. Additional weapons were seized at the location along with $685,825.00 in cash. Agents then executed search warrants at other residences and a storage unit. At the storage unit, agents seized an additional $257,520.00, $206,400.00, and $309,880.00 for a total currency seizure of $1,722,446.00.
The Texas Department of Public Safety led the investigation with assistance from the Wylie Police Department, the Collin County Sheriff’s Office, the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives provided follow-up investigation after the arrest and seizure of evidence. In total, nine individuals were convicted of federal drug trafficking violations.
"This investigation is a great example of the successful partnership between local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in Texas," said DPS Deputy Director David Baker. "Thanks to the efforts by all involved, these criminals are now off our streets, and our communities are safer today."
The following agencies received equitable sharing checks as a result of this case:Texas Department of Public Safety $1,119,360.20 (65%)
Wylie Police Department $86,104.63 (5%)
Dallas County Sheriff’s Office $86,104.63 (5%)
Collin County Sheriff’s Office $68,883.70 (4%)
Dallas County District Attorney’s Office $17,220.93 (1%)The remaining 20% of the forfeiture money will be deposited into the Asset Forfeiture Fund.
####
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Ernest Gonzalez.Wood County Woman Guilty of Methamphetamine ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 42-year-old Mineola, Texas woman has pleaded guilty to federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Jennifer Northcutt pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Feb. 5, 2013, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith K. Guthrie.
According to information presented in court, on Aug. 21, 2010, Northcutt was found in possessio9n of methamphetamine which she intended to distribute to others. She admitted to possessing approximately 17 grams of methamphetamine and to being in possession of a firearm while distributing methamphetamine.
A federal indictment was returned on Nov. 7, 2012, charging Northcutt and two co-defendants with federal drug crimes.
Northcutt faces up to 40 years in federal prison at sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mineola Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Baldwin. ####Harrison County Man Sentenced for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 45-year-old Marshall, Texas, man has been sentenced to federal prison for bank fraud violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Mark Alan McCullars pleaded guilty on Nov. 6, 2012 to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider.
According to information presented in court, beginning in May 2011, McCullars and co-defendant, Amanda Henderson, created counterfeit checks which appeared to be payroll checks from businesses in East Texas. They also created fraudulent drivers’ licenses so that they could cash the counterfeit checks at check-cashing businesses. McCullars and Henderson cashed over 100 fraudulent checks resulting in over $55,000 in loss to check cashing businesses in East Texas. They were indicted by a federal grand jury on May 11, 2012. Henderson is awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.
####Gregg County Man Guilty of Methamphetamine ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 26-year-old Longview, Texas man has pleaded guilty to federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Jason Ray Ragan pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine today before U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love.
According to information presented in court, on Aug. 2, 2012, Ragan was found in possession of approximately 8 grams of methamphetamine. A federal indictment was returned on Sep. 12, 2012 charging Ragan and a co-defendant with federal drug crimes.
Ragan faces up to 40 years in federal prison at sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Texas Department of Public Safety prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.
####Cherokee County Individuals 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 11 individuals are in custody following a lengthy investigation into drug trafficking in the Eastern District of Texas.
On Feb. 5, 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 Jan. 23, 2013. The indictment charges the following individuals with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of more than 50 grams of methamphetamine:
Javier Colmenero Loyola, 46
James Franklin Carpenter, 59
Bobby Joe Whiteley, 42
Brandon Wesley Kimble, 28
Christopher Trent O'Neal, 27
Toby Hill Coslett, aka "Crazy," 41
Jeffrey Rainey, aka "Pee Wee," 49
Stile Parker Denton, 48
Morris Edward Stone, 43
James Adrien Craig, aka "Ace," 37
Christine Marie Hamer, 35The defendants will appear today before U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love. If convicted, the defendants each face a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison.
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. ####
This indictment is the result of a joint investigation by the Tyler office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the Jacksonville Police Department and members of the Safe Streets Task Force. Numerous additional agencies participated in today’s arrests including DEA, ATF, HSI, the US Marshals Service, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Texas Rangers Special Operations Group, and the Anderson County Sheriff’s Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Moore.Maypearl Podiatrist Sentenced for Health Care/Tax FraudRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsSHERMAN, Texas — A 46-year-old Maypearl, Texas podiatrist has been sentenced to federal prison for health care and income tax fraud in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Shannon Gallentine pleaded guilty on May 10, 2012, to one count of health care fraud and one count of failing to file an income tax return and was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison on Jan. 31, 2013, by U.S. District Judge Thad Heartfield. Gallentine was also ordered to pay health care fraud restitution of $391,628.08 and $407,942.47 to the Internal Revenue Service. Of the restitution, $254,377.41 will be paid to Medicare, $110,622.59 to Medicaid, and $26,628.08 to Blue Cross Blue Shield.
According to information presented in court, from January 2004 through May 2007, Gallentine, a podiatrist, owned and operated Ambulatory Foot Care in Lancaster, Texas. During this time, Gallentine submitted false and fraudulent claims to Medicare seeking reimbursement for procedures which he did not perform. As a result of these false claims, Gallentine received in excess of $365,000.00 to which he was not entitled. Additionally, Gallentine willfully failed to file federal income tax returns for calendar years 2004 and 2005. Gallentine was indicted by a federal grand jury on Mar. 9, 2011, and charged with federal violations.
Gallentine will report to the U.S. Marshals Service on Mar. 18, 2013 to be transported to federal prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG), IRS, DEA, Texas Office of the Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (OAG-MFCU), and Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Texas and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James Peacock.
####Smith County Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 41-year-old Tyler, Texas man was sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Bonifacio Nunez-Romero was found guilty by a jury on Aug. 15, 2012, of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider.
According to information presented in court, up until September 2011, Nunez-Romero conspired with another person to acquire and distribute methamphetamine in the Tyler, Texas area. Evidence presented at trial showed Nunez-Romero was distributing methamphetamine manufactured in Mexico and also selling heroin. He was also found in possession of firearms, a military flak jacket and body armor. Nunez-Romero was indicted by a federal grand jury on Aug. 1, 2012 and charged with drug trafficking violations.
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.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Smith County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Baldwin.
####Nacogdoches Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 30-year-old Nacogdoches, 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.
Cedrick Fowler pleaded guilty on Aug. 28, 2012, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of crack cocaine and was sentenced to 245 months in federal prison on Jan. 29, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark.
Tremaine Smith, 27, of Nacogdoches, Texas, pleaded guilty on Sep. 5, 2012, to
According to information presented in court, from 2008 to June 20, 2012, Donald Dixon, a.k.a. “Black”, Cedrick Fowler, a.k.a. “C” and “C-Murder”, Kerry Wayne Griffin, a.k.a. “Big Boy”, Omar Paunetto, Jose Angel Bustillos, Michael John Pereira, Rodney Stevenson, a.k.a. “Arod”, Darius Thorn, a.k.a. “Bs” and “Beez”, Tremaine Smith and Anthony Fowler conspired to traffic cocaine and crack cocaine throughout East Texas.
On June 20, 2012, a federal grand jury returned a 10-count indictment charging 10 defendants, including Fowler, with drug trafficking violations.
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.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Nacogdoches Police Department, and the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.
####Illegal Alien Sentenced for Drug Trafficking in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 38-year-old El Salvadorian man illegally living in Tyler, Texas, was sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Francisco Antonio Soriano pleaded guilty on Sep. 21, 2012, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider. Soriano will be deported following the completion of his prison term.
According to information presented in court, beginning on Dec. 14, 2011, Soriano conspired with others to acquire and distribute methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Texas. Soriano admitted he was responsible for the distribution of more than 500 grams of pure methamphetamine.
Soriano, Jose Lopez, and Jorge Perez Sanchez were indicted by a federal grand jury on Jan. 11, 2012 and charged with drug trafficking violations. Lopez was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison on Oct. 1, 2012. Sanchez was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on Oct. 1, 2012.
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.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tyler Police Department, and the Smith County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Baldwin. ####Louisiana Man Sentenced for Purchasing Cold Pills in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A48-year-old Shreveport, LA man has been sentenced for federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Jay S. Gaines pleaded guilty on Sep. 4, 2012, to possession of pseudoephedrine with intent to manufacture methamphetamine and was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider.
According to information presented in court, on Apr. 4, 2011, Gaines purchased cold pills containing pseudoephedrine at a Walmart store in Longview, Texas with the intent to manufacture methamphetamine. Within an hour, Gaines also made two other purchases of cold pills at another Walmart store and a Walgreens store in Longview.
Gaines’ co-defendants have all been sentenced. Jimmie Langston, Jr., was sentenced on Oct. 4, 2012 to 120 months in federal prison. Donnie Regis was sentenced to 75 months on June 21, 2012. Christopher Conley received a sentence of 100 months on Jan. 17, 2012. Connie Parker was sentenced to 70 months on Feb. 8, 2012. Stacy Campbell was sentenced to 75 months on June 1, 2012. Keith Kates received a 70 month sentence on June 21, 2012. Penny Mooney was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison on Feb. 8, 2012.
This case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division and the Panola County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby. ####Louisiana Man Sentenced for Dealing Meth in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A35-year-old Zwolle, LA man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking charges in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Kinte Varness Garner pleaded guilty on Aug. 21, 2012, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider. Garner was also ordered to submit to forfeiture of $5,000.00.
According to information presented in court, up until September 2011, Garner conspired with another person to acquire and distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine throughout the Tyler, Texas area. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Oct. 5, 2011, charging Garner with federal violations.
Garner’s co-defendant, Camera Neal Holden, Jr., was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison on Sep. 11, 2012.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Canton Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Baldwin. ####Gregg County Man Sentenced for Identity Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 39-year-old Longview, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Benjamin Rojas pleaded guilty on Oct. 9, 2012, to conspiracy to commit identity theft and was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Schneider. Rojas was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $20,293.93.
According to information presented in court, from January to May 2012, Rojas conspired with others to possess and use false identification documents and means of identification of others unlawfully. The scheme involved stealing mail from mailboxes in East Texas and using the information from the stolen mail to produce false Texas driver licenses, which appeared to be actual Texas temporary driver licenses. The fictitious driver licenses were used for identification when passing stolen checks, as well as counterfeit and forged checks, at various businesses in East Texas.
Co-defendant, Robin Watkins is scheduled to be sentenced on Mar. 7, 2013.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Smith County Sheriff’s Office, the Tyler Police Department, the Tyler Police Department, and the Longview Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel C. Kummerfeld.
####Carrollton Man Sentenced for Counterfeit Cell Phone AccessoriesRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, TX – A 54-year-old Carrollton, Texas, man has been sentenced to federal prison for a counterfeiting conspiracy in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Shiraz Sherali Odhwani pleaded guilty on Sep. 9, 2011, to conspiracy to traffic in counterfeit goods and was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison by United States District Judge Michael H. Schneider. Odhwani was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $950,000.
According to information presented in court, Odhwani owns and operates a company known as Turtle Wireless, a wholesale outlet and retail point of sale for cellular telephones and wireless device accessories located in Dallas, Texas. In or about 2008, Turtle Wireless began selling counterfeit cellular telephone accessories purchased from suppliers in China. Through Turtle Wireless, Odhwani then sold the counterfeit products to retailers within the Eastern District of Texas and elsewhere. In connection with this case, law enforcement officials seized more than 130,000 counterfeit items from Odhwani’sstore and leased storage space. The infringement amount of that counterfeit merchandise was estimated at between $2.5 million and $7 million. Odhwani and three others were indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2011.
This case is an example of the type of efforts being undertaken by the Department of Justice Task Force on Intellectual Property (IP Task Force). Attorney General Eric Holder created the IP Task Force to combat the growing number of domestic and international intellectual property crimes, protect the health and safety of American consumers, and safeguard the nation’s economic security against those who seek to profit illegally from American creativity, innovation and hard work. The IP Task Force seeks to strengthen intellectual property rights protection through heightened criminal and civil enforcement, greater coordination among federal, state and local law enforcement partners, and increased focus on international enforcement efforts, including reinforcing relationships with key foreign partners and U.S. industry leaders. To learn more about the IP Task Force, go to www.justice.gov/dag/iptaskforce.The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department, the Longview Police Department, the Baytown Police Department, and the Austin Police Department. The matter was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Coan.
####Jefferson County Man Sentenced for Nederland Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 32-year-old Nederland, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for robbing a bank in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Christopher Levi Woodcock pleaded guilty on Sep. 27, 2012 to bank robbery and was sentenced to 43 months in federal prison on Jan. 24, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark. Woodcock was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,971.00.
According to information presented in court, on Jan. 13, 2012, Woodcock entered Community Bank at 2008 Hwy 365 in Nederland and presented a note demanding money from a teller. Fingerprint analysis of the demand note and community tipsters led to the arrest of Woodcock.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Nederland Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Craft. ####Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments in Tyler, TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas –A federal grand jury returned indictments today charging individuals with separate federal crimes in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Cloyd Ray Knight, III, 57, of Arlington, Texas, was charged with making and passing counterfeit $100 bills. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison. According to the indictment, in December 2012, Knight is alleged to have forged $100 bills which he used at various retail stores across East Texas. This case is being investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregg Marchessault.
Pastor Sanchez-Ortuno, 38, was indicted for being present in the United States after having been previously deported. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison followed by deportation. This case is being investigated by HSI-ICE and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregg Marchessault.
Pedro Gallegos-Perez, 31, a Mexican national, was indicted for being present in the United States after having been previously deported. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison followed by deportation. This case is being investigated by HSI-ICE and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen Hurst.
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.
####Trinity County Man Sentenced for Failing to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 57-year-old Trinity, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for failing to register as a sex offender in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Clarence Robert Ward pleaded guilty on June 12, 2012, to failure to register as a sex offender and was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Thad Heartfield.According to information presented in court, Ward was convicted on indecency with a minor in Polk County, Iowa in 1998. As a result of this conviction, Ward is required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. In March 2010, Ward moved to Huntsville, Texas and then in 2011, he moved from Huntsville to Trinity, Texas. Ward failed to update his sex offender registration with the State of Iowa or to initiate registration with the State of Texas.
This case was investigated by ICE/HSI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher T. Tortorice
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.Nacogdoches Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A Nacogdoches 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. The sentencing hearing was held before U.S. District Judge Ron Clark.
Tremaine Smith, 27, of Nacogdoches, Texas, pleaded guilty on Sep. 5, 2012, to possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison today.
According to information presented in court, from 2008 to June 20, 2012, Donald Dixon, a.k.a. “Black”, Cedrick Fowler, a.k.a. “C” and “C-Murder”, Kerry Wayne Griffin, a.k.a. “Big Boy”, Omar Paunetto, Jose Angel Bustillos, Michael John Pereira, Rodney Stevenson, a.k.a. “Arod”, Darius Thorn, a.k.a. “Bs” and “Beez”, Tremaine Smith and Anthony Fowler conspired to traffic cocaine and crack cocaine throughout East Texas.
Smith's role in the conspiracy was to acquire powder cocaine from C. Fowler and then convert it into a "crack" cocaine base. Smith would then redistribute the crack cocaine to others in East Texas.
On June 20, 2012, a federal grand jury returned a 10-count indictment charging 10 defendants, including Smith, with drug trafficking violations.
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.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nacogdoches Police Department, and the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.
Beaumont Man Pleads Guilty to CarjackingRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, TX – United States Attorney John M. Bales announced today that a Beaumont man has pled guilty to federal carjacking charges in the Eastern District of Texas.
ROGELIO ARELLANO TORRES, 19, of Beaumont, Texas, admitted to charges he car jacked a woman last year during a hearing before United States Judge Marcia Crone today in Beaumont. Torres had been indicted on July 11, 2012 and charged with carjacking in a one count indictment.According to information presented in court, on June 24, 2012, Torres forced the woman at knifepoint into her vehicle in the parking lot of the Pappadeaux’s Restaurant in Beaumont. Torres then drove, with her captive, to a bank ATM where he demanded the victim withdraw money from her account. After withdrawing the money, the woman was eventually forced from her vehicle and Torres fled with her car, purse and cell phone.
Torres faces a term of up to 15 years in prison. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Beaumont Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph R. Batte. ###Collin County Couple Arrested for Health Care Fraud ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsSHERMAN, Texas – A Collin County, Texas, husband and wife have been arrested and charged with health care fraud violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
John Mitchell Rutoskey, 59, and Gwenice Rutoskey , 54, were arrested early this morning at their McKinney, Texas, home without incident. On Dec. 12, 2012, the Rutoskey’s were named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury charging them with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, six counts of health care fraud, causing false representations in relation to federal health care programs, and two counts of money laundering. The Rutoskey’s will make an initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Amos Mazzant.
If convicted of these charges, the Rutoskey’s face up to 10 years in federal prison for each health care fraud and money laundering charge. They face up to five years in federal prison for the charge of causing false representations in relation to federal health care fraud programs.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Texas Attorney General’s Office, and the McKinney Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James Peacock.
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)
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 Sentenced for Child Pornography ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 23-year-old Whitehouse, 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.
Oscar Vela pleaded guilty on June 11, 2013, to online enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison on Jan. 9, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Leonard Davis.According to information presented in court, Vela communicated with law enforcement agents who were acting in an undercover capacity. The law enforcement agents represented that they were a minor female who was available for sexual activity for a price. Vela agreed to pay for sex with the minor female and was apprehended by law enforcement. As a result of this conviction, Vela will be placed on the required to register as a sex offender following his imprisonment.
####
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 Longview Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy Griffith.Denton County Man Sentenced for Child Exploitation ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas – A 53-year-old Hickory Creek, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for child exploitation violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Perry Joe Wicks pleaded guilty on June 15, 2013, to online enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and was sentenced to 121 months in federal prison on Jan. 9, 2013 by U.S. District Judge Richard Schell.According to information presented in court, Wicks communicated with law enforcement agents who were acting in an undercover capacity. The law enforcement agents represented that they were a minor female who was available for sexual activity for a price. Wicks agreed to pay for sex with the minor female and was apprehended by law enforcement. As a result of this conviction, Wicks will be placed on the required to register as a sex offender following his imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the Plano Police Department, the Collin County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy Griffith. ####
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.Smith County Residents Guilty of Methamphetamine ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – Two Smith County, Texas residents have pleaded guilty to federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Clinton Daniel McCaa, 32, of Whitehouse, Texas, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith K. Guthrie.
Tara McDonald, 40, of Tyler, Texas, pleaded guilty to maintaining a place for the distribution and use of methamphetamine today before Judge Guthrie.
According to information presented in court, during 2011, McCaa acquired methamphetamine from Clinton Squires of Terrell, Texas, which McCaa then distributed to multiple persons in Tyler, Texas. During this time, McCaa lived with McDonald at her residence on Meadow Creek Drive in Tyler, Texas. McDonald admitted that she knew McCaa was involved in the distribution and use of methamphetamine. Furthermore, McDonald allowed McCaa to store methamphetamine and other substances at her residence.
A federal indictment was returned on May 2, 2012, charging McDonald and McCaa with federal drug crimes.
McCaa faces up to 40 years in federal prison. McDonald faces up to 20 years in federal prison. Sentencing dates have not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.
###Smith County Man Sentenced for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 42-year-old Tyler, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
James Henry Hardee pleaded guilty on Oct. 11, 2012, to wire fraud and was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Leonard E. Davis.
According to information presented in court, from 2005 to 2008, Hardee, who was serving as the managing member of an investment group based in Tyler, embezzled investor funds and used the money for personal purposes such as mortgage payments, vehicles, and credit card payments. The investment group was comprised of multiple investors from Georgia and was formed to open and operate multiple fast-food restaurants in Arkansas. Hardee concealed his misappropriation of funds by falsifying financial statements, including those sent to investors by electronic mail on a monthly basis.
A restitution hearing will be held at a later date.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney L. Frank Coan, Jr.
Smith County Man Guilty of Attempted ArsonRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 54-year-old Tyler, Texas, building contractor has pleaded guilty to federal charges in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Daniel Kubisty pleaded guilty to attempted arson today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith Guthrie.
According to information presented in court, on Mar. 19, 2012, Kubisty accepted $3,000 from Edward Jacobs to burn down a building located at 3322 E. Fifth Street in Tyler that was being used by the “Add-Life Recovery Center” methadone clinic. Kubisty and Jacobs conspired to burn down the building in order to gain a competitive advantage for the “Methadone Clinic of East Texas” which was owned by Jacobs and also had an office in Tyler, Texas. On Mar. 19, 2012 Kubisty was arrested in Tyler by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and was found to have a gasoline can, with a wick saturated in gasoline protruding from its neck, in the back of his pickup.
Kubisty faces from five to 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set.
After Kubisty’s arrest, Jacobs feared Kubisty would testify against him and on June 1, 2012, he arranged a meeting with a man he believed he could hire to murder Kubisty in order to prevent Kubisty’s testimony. During the meeting, Jacobs offered to pay the hit-man $12,000.00 for Kubisty’s murder. ATF was monitoring the meeting and arrested Jacobs at the scene. On Dec. 18, 2012 Jacobs pleaded guilty to attempted arson and solicitation of murder for hire. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each charge. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
###Panola County Felon Sentenced for Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 45-year-old Carthage, 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.
Kevie Lenn Johnson pleaded guilty on June 14, 2012 to possession of a stolen firearm and was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Leonard Davis.
According to information presented in court, on Jan. 26, 2012, Johnson took a .22 caliber rifle from a Carthage, Texas residence without consent of the owner. Further investigation revealed Johnson was a convicted felon, having previously been found guilty of multiple felony crimes including possession of crack cocaine, burglary of a habitation, and robbery. Federal law prohibits the possession of stolen firearms and further prohibits convicted felons from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition. Johnson was indicted by a federal grand jury on Feb. 1, 2012 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 ATF and the Carthage Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.Jasper County Traffic Stop Puts NC Man in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 46-year-old Clinton, NC 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.
Enar David Zuniga pleaded guilty on Aug. 29, 2012, to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana and was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark.
According to information presented in court, on June 18, 2012, Zuniga was stopped by a Texas Highway Patrol trooper in Jasper County, Texas for a seatbelt violation. During the stop, Zuniga appeared nervous and his answers to the trooper’s questions were suspicious. Zuniga opened the back of the Isuzu truck and gave the trooper permission to search the vehicle’s contents. The trooper inspected the front of the truck and suspected a hidden compartment. A K-9 unit arrived and alerted to the back of the truck where 1,064 pounds of marijuana was discovered. Zuniga was indicted on June 21, 2012 and charged with federal drug trafficking crimes.
This case was investigated by Texas Department of Public Safety and the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments in Plano, TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsPLANO, Texas –A federal grand jury returned multiple indictments today charging individuals with separate federal crimes in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Tuan Truong, of Plano, Texas, has been indicted for possession with intent to distribute marijuana. If convicted, he faces up to 40 years in federal prison. This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stevan A. Buys.
Vincente Botello-Segundo, 31, of Dallas, has been indicted for illegally entering the United States after having been deported and possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison and deportation. This case is being investigated by ICE/HSI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stevan A. Buys.
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.Dallas County Man Sentenced for East Texas Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 43-year-old Mesquite, 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.
Harold Dickens pleaded guilty on Mar. 19, 2012 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Leonard Davis.
According to information presented in court, up until May of 2011, Dickens conspired with others to acquire methamphetamine for distribution in East Texas. Dickens admitted that he was responsible for the distribution of more than 150 grams of pure methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Texas. Dickens and six others were indicted on Nov. 2, 2011 and charged with drug trafficking offenses. Matthew Dean Willis was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison on June 12, 2012. David Christopher Wheeler and Raelene Dawn Ferguson were each sentenced to 46 months in federal prison on July 16, 2012. Terri Rhea Young was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison on July 23, 2012. One additional co-defendant is awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kilgore Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Baldwin.
Cherokee County Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking in East TexasRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 44-year-old Alto, 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.
Kerry Wayne Griffin pleaded guilty on Aug. 29, 2012, to conspiracy to posses with intent to distribute over 15 kilograms or more of cocaine and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Ron Clark.
According to information presented in court, from 2008 to June 20, 2012, Donald Dixon, a.k.a. “Black”, Cedrick Fowler, a.k.a. “C” and “C-Murder”, Kerry Wayne Griffin, a.k.a. “Big Boy”, Omar Paunetto, Jose Angel Bustillos, Michael John Pereira, Rodney Stevenson, a.k.a. “Arod”, Darius Thorn, a.k.a. “Bs” and “Beez”, Tremaine Smith and Anthony Fowler conspired to traffic cocaine and crack cocaine throughout East Texas.
Griffin's role in the organization was to acquire powder cocaine from Dixon, and then redistribute the cocaine and cocaine base through others. Griffin and Thacker first began obtaining cocaine from Dixon in 2008, and in 2009 Griffin became the source of supply for C. Fowler. C. Fowler utilized the assistance of Stevenson, Thorn, A. Fowler, and Smith in the subsequent distribution of cocaine and cocaine base. Federal agents learned of the drug trafficking activity and conducted an extensive investigation of Griffin and his associates. On May 25, 2012, investigators executed an arrest and search warrant at Griffin’s residence and seized approximately $18,450 in cash as well as three firearms.
On June 20, 2012, a federal grand jury returned a 10-count indictment charging 10 defendants, including Griffin, with drug trafficking violations.
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.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nacogdoches Police Department, and the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.
Athens Man Pleads Guilty to Being Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, TX – United States Attorney John M. Bales announced today that
Frankie Darrell Durant a 50 year old Athens, Texas man, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm during a hearing before United States Magistrate Judith K. Guthrie.On September 12, 2012, Durantwasindicted by a federal grand jury on a 1 count indictment. According to information presented in court, on or about July 26, 2011, Durant possessed three firearms in Smith County, Texas. The firearms were located in a storage room that was rented by Durant. Durant also admitted that the he previously had been convicted of possession of a controlled substance, a felony offense, in 2007.
Durantfaces no more than 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and a term of not more than 3 years of supervised release. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
This case is being investigated by the Department of Public Safety and it is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.
Former Mayor of Melissa, Texas Guilty in Bribery SchemeRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsSHERMAN, Texas – Two Collin County, Texas men, including the former mayor of the city of Melissa, have pleaded guilty in connection with a bribery scheme in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
David E. Dorman, 66, of Melissa, Texas, pleaded guilty to an Information charging him with mail fraud today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Amos Mazzant. John Christie, 65, of Frisco, Texas, pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony on Jan. 4, 2013, before Judge Mazzant.According to information presented in court, in 2007, Dorman, then mayor of the city of Melissa, solicited a $70,000 bribe from Christie in exchange for arranging for the city of Melissa to annex a portion of land from the city of McKinney, Texas, in order for Christie to develop and sell the land to potential customers. Based on a letter from Dorman, the cities of Melissa and McKinney approved the annexation and in exchange, Christie made one $10,000 cash payment and two $10,000 payments by check to Dorman. The men were initially named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Sep. 12, 2012.
Dorman faces up to 20 years in federal prison. Christie faces up to three years in federal prison for his role in the scheme. Sentencing dates have not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shamoil T. Shipchandler.
Jefferson County Man Sentenced for Child Pornography ViolationsRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 47-year-old Beaumont, 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.
Charles Wilburn Odom pleaded guilty on Aug. 7, 2012 to possession of child pornography and was sentenced to 87 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone.According to information presented in court, on Oct. 28, 2010, federal officials conducted a search warrant at Odom’s residence in Beaumont, Texas. Several computers and digital storage were seized during the search and found to contain more than 140 videos and more than 79 images of child pornography. Some of the material would be considered sadistic or masochistic and some depicted prepubescent children under the age of 12. Odom was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 16, 2012.
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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 ICE/HSI, Beaumont Police Department, and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher T. Tortorice.Smith County Man Guilty of Stealing Government PropertyRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsTYLER, Texas – A 33-year-old Tyler, Texas man has pleaded guilty to stealing government property in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.
Raymond Kyle Welsh pleaded guilty to an Information charging him with theft of government property today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith K. Guthrie.
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 $213,981.19 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.
Welsh faces up to 10 years in federal prison, restitution of $240,569.19 and forfeiture of $26,588.00 at sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set.
This case is being investigated by the Social Security Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.
Port Arthur Man Sentenced in Kidnapping and Carjacking SchemeRead the Press Release
Department of Justice
Office of Public AffairsBEAUMONT, Texas – A 33-year-old Port Arthur, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison in a carjacking case as a result of Operation Time Machine in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.
Luan Van Nguyen, aka, Kevin Nguyen, was found guilty by a jury on Aug. 2, 2012, of carjacking, conspiracy to commit carjacking, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime. Nguyen was sentenced to 330 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Thad Heartfield.
According to information presented in court, from July 16, 2010 to Aug. 6, 2010, Nguyen conspired with two fellow Port Arthur men, Patrick Allen Chaney and Rigoberto Gaytan Valenzia, to kidnap a 24-year-old Port Arthur man and hold him for ransom. Chaney and Valenzia had both previously performed construction work for Nguyen, who was a construction contractor. Nguyen approached Chaney and Valenzia and asked them to help kidnap the victim and promised to share a portion of the ransom proceeds, which was to be paid by the victim's family. Prior to the kidnapping, Chaney, Valenzia, and Nguyen traveled together on one or more occasions to conduct surveillance on the victim and the victim's family. Nguyen was a friend of the victim’s family and knew that the victim had a job doing computer repair work. Nguyen’s plan was to lure the victim to an vacant house in Port Arthur by having Chaney make a fictitious service call for computer repair. On Aug. 5, 2010, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Chaney, using the alias "Gary Underwood," called the victim on his cell phone and asked the victim to fix a computer.
On Aug. 6, 2010, from approximately 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Chaney, using the same alias, "Gary Underwood," made multiple phone calls to the victim's cell phone and the victim’s employer, specifically requesting that the victim be sent to do the computer repair. Chaney instructed the victim to meet him at 3748 Proctor Street in Port Arthur, in order to pick up the computer. At approximately 3:00 p.m., Chaney met the victim at 3748 Proctor Street and was able to lure him into the house. Upon entering the house, Valenzia confronted the victim with a short-barreled shotgun and told the victim to lay face down on the floor and not to move or else he would shoot the victim. Chaney proceeded to blind-fold the victim and bound the victim's hands with duct tape. Valenzia and Chaney then put the victim into Valenzia’s van, bound his feet with duct tape, and then removed the victim’s car keys and cell phone. Chaney took the victim's car which was parked in the driveway. Nguyen drove up to the residence and instructed Chaney to follow Nguyen in the victim's vehicle while Valenzia transported the victim. Chaney and Nguyen then abandoned the victim’s vehicle behind a business on 8th Street and 9th Avenue in order to conceal the location of the kidnaping from law enforcement.
Valenzia took a large knife and placed it against the victim's neck and leg, and told the victim that he would cut him if he moved. Valenzia left the residence in his van with the victim still bound in the back and planned to take the victim back to his apartment. While in route, the victim was able to maneuver to the front of the vehicle and lodge himself against Valenzia and the inside wall of the van. Valenzia choked the victim with his hands in order to try and regain control over him. After a brief struggle, Valenzia stopped the vehicle and opened the driver's side door in order to free himself. Once the door was opened, the victim fell out of the vehicle, managed to free one of his legs, and was able to run to a nearby business for help. A passing motorist observed the victim escaping from the vehicle and called Port Arthur Police. Valenzia left the scene and then called Nguyen on his cell phone and informed him that the victim had escaped. Valenzia attempted to flee in the van, but was later apprehended by Port Arthur Police officers. Port Arthur Police recovered the shotgun used in the kidnapping and carjacking. Chaney voluntarily surrendered to Port Arthur Police on Aug. 13, 2010. A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Sep. 8, 2010, charging Valenzia, Nguyen, and Chaney with federal violations.
The evidence at trial showed that Nguyen fled Port Arthur on Aug. 16, 2010 after he learned federal investigators were investigating him for his role in the kidnaping and carjacking. He was at large for over a year, and was eventually arrested in Houston, Texas on Dec. 14, 2011.
Phone records showed that Nguyen repeatedly called Chaney and Valenzia on the day of the kidnaping and carjacking, and instructed them on how to carry out the crime.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods' Operation Time Machine program in partnership with the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office. Operation 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 Port Arthur, Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
Chaney pleaded guilty to carjacking and was sentenced on Aug. 9, 2011, to 97 months in federal prison. Valenzia pleaded guilty to carjacking and was sentenced on Apr. 20, 2011 to 116 months in federal prison. Chaney and Valenzia were also convicted of state charges for aggravated kidnapping and were both sentenced to 5 years in the Texas Department of Corrections. During sentencing, Judge Heartfield referred to Nguyen as the “puppeteer” and his co-defendants as the “puppets” in this scheme.
This case was investigated by the Port Arthur Police Department and the ATF and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Ross.