Western District of Texas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Lohn I.S.D. Business Manager Admits to Stealing More Than $500,000 from the School DistrictRead the Press Release
Patty E. Smith, age 58, of Lohn, TX, faces up to 15 years in federal prison and full restitution for embezzling more than $500,000 from the Lohn Independent School District (LISD) announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge R. Damon Rowe, Dallas Division.
Appearing before United States Magistrate Judge Mark Lane in Austin on Friday, Smith pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion and one count of theft from an organization receiving federal funds. By pleading guilty, Smith admitted that between September 2006 and September 2012, she stole LISD funds totaling $507,528.82 and used it for her personal benefit. She also admitted to evading paying taxes on the embezzled funds, which constituted taxable income, by not disclosing it to the IRS on her yearly Income Tax returns.
According to the factual basis filed in this case, Smith did not have signature authority over any LISD financial accounts, however, she had sufficiently gained the trust of the person with signature authority to the point that that person signed blank checks for funds that Smith would subsequently complete and make payable to either “cash” or fictitious payees. Smith concealed her activities by recording false check amounts in the check register. For years 2007 through 2011, Smith’s willful evasion of taxes on the funds she stole from LISD resulted in the underpayment of income tax in the amount of approximately $129,400.
Smith is on bond pending sentencing. Sentencing is scheduled for August 11, 2014, before United States District Judge Lee Yeakel.
This case was investigated by special agents with the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation with the assistance of the Texas Rangers. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Devlin is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.Del Rio Jury Convicts Two Los Zetas Cartel Members on Federal Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
Two senior members of the Los Zetas Cartel operating in Piedras Negras, Mexico, face up to life in federal prison after a jury convicted them of smuggling thousands of kilograms of marijuana and hundreds of assault rifles announced Robert Pitman, United States Attorney; Janice Ayala, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge of the San Antonio Division; Robert Elder, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge of the Houston Division; and, Christopher Combs, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge of the San Antonio Division.
On Friday afternoon, jurors convicted 29–year-old Emilio Villalobos-Alcala (aka “La Tripa”), and 27–year-old Jose Eluid Lugo-Lopez (aka “Cochi Loco”) of one count of conspiracy to import marijuana; one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana; one count of conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and, two counts of smuggling goods from the United States.
According to courtroom testimony, Villalobos-Alcala, a purported leader of the Los Zetas Cartel activities in Piedras Negras and fellow senior level member Lugo-Lopez were involved in a large-scale marijuana and firearms smuggling scheme from July 2011 until February 2013. Assault weapons, other firearms, magazines and ammunition purchased in San Antonio were transported inside hidden compartments in cars and trucks and smuggled through Eagle Pass, Texas, to Piedras Negras. Bundles of marijuana, smuggled across the river into Quemado, Texas, were transported to stash houses in Eagle Pass. From there, the marijuana was transported to stash houses in San Antonio and ultimately to distributors in Dallas and Houston.
Evidence presented during the trial included multiple threats made by Villalobos-Alcala and Lugo-Lopez that they would kill people involved in the smuggling conspiracy or their family members if they did not pay money for drugs or weapons seized by law enforcement or agree to move drugs or weapons on behalf of the cartel.
In February 2013, Villalobos was arrested at the Port of Entry in Eagle Pass. Lugo-Lopez was arrested in Eagle Pass in November 2012 after crossing into the country illegally. Villalobos-Alcala and Lugo-Lopez remain in federal custody pending sentencing. Sentencing is scheduled for December 15, 2014, in Del Rio.
This case was investigated by special agents with HSI, ATF, FBI and the Drug Enforcement Administration together with the U.S. Border Patrol, Texas Department of Public Safety and the Zavala County Sheriff’s Office.
San Antonio Man and Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Aiding in the Exportation of Firearms from the United StatesRead the Press Release
In Del Rio this afternoon, United States District Judge Alia Moses sentenced 41-year-old CARLO LEE REYES (aka “El Raton”) to 240 months in federal prison, and 39-year-old ALICIA CASTANEDA (aka “Alicia Palomo”) to 33 months in federal prison announced Robert Pitman, United States Attorney for the Western District of Texas, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Janice Ayala, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent Robert Elder, Houston Division.
A jury in Del Rio convicted Reyes on October 3, 2013, of aiding the attempted exportation of firearms from the United States and being a felon in possession of an assault rifle-style firearm. In addition to the prison term, Judge Moses ordered that Carlo Lee Reyes pay a $5,000 fine and be placed under supervised release for a period of three years after completing his prison term. Castaneda pled guilty to aiding the attempted exportation of firearms from the U.S. Judge Moses imposed a supervised release period of three years on Castaneda.
Reyes, who was found guilty for his role in acquiring, paying for, storing, and transporting weapons, is the last defendant to be sentenced as part of Operation Iron Justice, a wide-ranging investigation led by HSI into the exportation of firearms from the United States into Mexico. Reyes would enlist others to locate firearms in San Antonio, and then coordinate through intermediaries to pick up the firearms and move them to a stash house. From there, others would arrange to pick up the firearms and transport them to Eagle Pass, for ultimate export to the traffickers in Mexico.
Operation Iron Justice, initiated by HSI Eagle Pass in early 2011, targeted several weapons trafficking
organizations believed to be acquiring firearms for the “Los Zetas” drug trafficking organization. The firearms, including weapons, ammunition, and assault rifle magazines, were to be smuggled to the Zetas operating in the Piedras Negras, Mexico, area, for protection against rival cartels, the Mexican military, and law enforcement.
The investigation identified several smuggling cells operating in the U.S. Using a number of investigative
techniques, agents obtained evidence of the firearm trafficking, including the identification of various
individuals involved in the trafficking, the interdiction and seizure of large numbers of firearms, rounds of
ammunition, and currency, as well as quantities of cocaine and marijuana. The investigation included the
seizure of 15 assault rifles and 518 rifle magazines in September 2011; the seizure of 11 assault rifles and 15
magazines in October 2011; the seizure of $109,545.00 in U.S. currency near Falfurrias, Texas, in October 2011; and the arrest of Richard Hesles, Jr., and his brother, Damian Hesles, owners of Hesles Gun and Knife Store in Eagle Pass, who were responsible for aiding and abetting or attempting the exportation of .50 caliber firearms, ammunition, magazines, and firearm sights to Mexico. All told, Operation Iron Justice resulted in over 50 arrests from indictments brought in the Western District of Texas, the seizure of 63,742 rounds of ammunition, 4,031 magazines, 220 assault rifles, $1,079,834.95 U.S. currency, 35 pounds of cocaine, 173 pounds of marijuana, and 18 vehicles.
The defendants convicted and sentenced in connection with Operation Iron Justice are as follows:DEFENDANT
PLEA or FOUND GUILTY
at TRIAL DATESENTENCING DATE/
SENTENCE1. Evelyn GUJARDO‐Campos
10/07/2010
07/3/2012: 26 months
12/02/2010
02/7/2010: 63 months
3. Michael Jonathan ROGERS
03/23/2011
11/28/2011: 30 months
4. Robert Lee PEREZ
08/25/2011
05/16/2012: 30 months
5. Armando LOPEZ
08/25/2011
02/15/2012: 63 months
6. Luis Alfredo SALINAS
12/21/2011
06/26/2012: 72 months
7. Rogelio Velarde MARTINEZ III
11/16/2011
11/05/2012: 48 months
8. Alfredo SALAZAR
12/21/2011
01/09/2013: 36 months
9. Shane Vernon STULL
09/22/2011
02/17/2012: 13 months
10. Janie LUNA
11/22/2011
04/23/2012: 24 months
11. Shiloh Nathaniel MORENO
11/03/2011
04/09/2012: 18 months
12. Mayra GARCIA‐Gonzalez
03/07/2012
06/04/2012: 46 months
13. Guadalupe Catalina VASQUEZ
03/28/2012
11/06/2012: 63 months
14. Enrique DELARA
03/08/2012
08/28/2012: 100 months
15. Vanessa MEDINA‐Velasco
04/24/2012
08/27/2012: 70 months
16. Victor CASTRO
01/19/2012
06/11/2012: 48 months
17. Jimena Prisilla GUERRERO
04/19/2012
02/04/2013: 37 months
18. Luis Bernardo ALBA
02/08/2012
06/26/2012: 37 months
19. Lisa Marie OLIVAREZ‐Vasquez
09/27/2012
02/04/2014: 52 months
20. Jose Angel MARTINEZ
06/28/2012
02/05/2013: 51 months
21. Roberto Frederico ESQUIVEL
03/28/2012
10/19/2012: 84 months
22. William TORRES‐Cordoba
04/19/2012
10/10/2012: 84 months
23. Sergio GUTIERREZ‐Vasquez
06/28/2012
02/06/2014: 48 months
24. Jose Roberto HERNANDEZ
03/08/2012
04/09/2014: 30 months
25. Salvador MONTENEGRO
09/27/2012
08/07/2013: 71 months
26. Jose NEGRETE‐Rodriguez
06/07/2012
10/25/2012: 46 months
27. Raul MONTENEGRO
05/03/2012
12/12/2012: 24 months
28. Favian RAMIREZ
03/28/2012
08/27/2012: 24 months
29. Francisco Chavarria TAMAYO
07/05/2012
07/25/2013: 12 months
30. Santiago Aurelio MARTINEZ
07/12/2012
12/17/2012: 46 months
31. Arturo CASTILLO‐Martinez
05/24/2012
10/25/2012: 36 months
32. Raul VASQUEZ‐Hinojosa
05/22/2012
10/15/2012: 33 months
33. Ramona ORTIZ
05/22/2012
10/15/2012: 30 months
34. Henris Osmar MERCADO
06/28/2012
11/26/2012: 63 months
35. Rene LARA
05/24/2012
09/26/2012: 96 months
36. Juan LOPEZ Jr.
09/06/2012
02/12/2014: 46 months
37. Hugo RAMIREZ‐Zapata
07/19/2012
07/29/2013: 57 months
38. Johnnie SANTOS
10/17/2012
04/09/2014: 33 months
39. Araceli TREVINO‐Rodriguez
07/05/2012
02/14/2013: 60 months
40. Damien HESLES
10/25/2012
01/28/2014: 110 months
41. Richard HESLES Jr.
10/25/2012
01/28/2014: 120 months
42. Carlo Lee REYES
10/03/2013
06/30/2014: 240 months
43. Alicia CASTANEDA
09/17/2012
06/30/2014: 33 months
44. Ismael HERNANDEZ‐Reyes
10/17/2012
04/24/2013: 37 months
45. Rolando TAMAYO
At‐Large, Failed To Appear
Fugitive
46. Erik Alan GARZA
04/25/2013
01/17/2014: 44 months
“HSI is committed to working with our state and federal law enforcement partners to dismantle and disrupt any illicit scheme involving the illegal exportation of firearms,” said Janice Ayala, Special Agent-in-Charge, HSI San Antonio. “Keeping these items out of the hands of violent cartels is a top priority for HSI.”
This case was investigated by agents with Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Customs and Border Protection, Texas Department of Public Safety, Bexar County Sheriff’s Department, Maverick County Sheriff’s Department, and the San Antonio Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Galdo and Bryan N. Reeves prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Rahatul Khan and Michael Wolfe for Allegedly Attempting to Provide Material Support to TerroristsRead the Press Release
'A federal grand jury in the Western District of Texas returned separate indictments Wednesday charging
Rahatul Khan and Michael Wolfe with attempting to provide material support to terrorists announced Robert Pitman, United States Attorney for the Western District of Texas, Christopher Combs, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the San Antonio Division, and John Carlin, Assistant Attorney General for National Security.Khan (a.k.a. “Rahat Khan,” “AuthenticTauheed19,” and “AT19”), age 23 of Round Rock, TX, is charged with conspiring to provide material support to terrorists in violation of Title 18 USC Section 2339A. From March 2011 to January 2012, Khan allegedly conspired with others to recruit persons to travel overseas to support terrorist activities including committing violent jihad.
Wolfe (a.k.a. “Faruq”), age 23 of Austin, TX, is charged with attempting to provide material support to
terrorists. Wolfe allegedly planned to travel to the Middle East to provide his services to radical groups
engaged in armed conflict in Syria.A detention hearing for Defendant Khan, originally scheduled for today, has been reset to June 30 at 2:30 p.m., before U. S. Magistrate Judge Mark Lane in Austin. Defendant Wolfe waived hearing on the Government’s motion to detain him and will remain in custody. Both defendants have waived formal arraignment and have entered not guilty pleas to the charges against them. Khan and Wolfe face up to 15 years in federal prison and a maximum $250,000 fine upon conviction.
Both indictments resulted from a Central Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation together with the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, United States Army Intelligence, Austin Police Department, Round Rock Police Department, Killeen Police Department, University of Texas Police Department, Travis County Sheriff's Office, Texas Department of Public Safety, Office of the Texas Attorney General and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.
Assistant United States Attorneys Gregg N. Sofer and Michael Galdo, together with the Department of Justice’s National Security Division Counterterrorism section trial attorneys Josh Parecki and Michael Dittoe, are prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Austin Area Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing Millions from Pension PlansRead the Press Release
In Austin today, 64-year-old Lakeway resident Ricky Lynn Richardson was sentenced to five years in federal prison for stealing millions from pension plans announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, San Antonio Division.
In addition to the prison term, United States District Judge Sam Sparks ordered that Richardson pay
approximately $ 4,362,813.59 restitution and be placed under supervised release for a period of three years after completing his prison term.On March 18, 2014, Richardson pleaded guilty to a one-count Information charging him with theft and
embezzlement from an employee benefit plan. According to authorities, from 1998 to 2013, Richardson stole money from four separate pension plans for which he provided administrative services, namely approximately $941,234 from the Texas Dental Association in Austin, approximately $2,504,258 from D.W.D. Engineering in the Houston area, approximately $687,520 from Green Leaflet, Inc., in Austin and approximately $229,800 from Albert T. Gross, M.D. in Austin. During the scheme, Richardson, doing business as Benefit Consultants, Inc., in Spicewood, TX, secretly misdirected or misappropriated money that belonged to the plans and provided customers with false statements, leading them to believe they still had the retirement money.This investigation was conducted by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Employees
Benefits Security Administration of the Department of Labor. Assistant United States Attorney Alan M. Buie prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Central Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force Arrest Two for Allegedly Providing Material Support to TerroristsRead the Press Release
Authorities with the Central Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force arrested two Austin area residents for alleged offenses involving providing material support to terrorists announced Robert Pitman, United States Attorney for the Western District of Texas, Christopher Combs, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the San Antonio Division, and John Carlin, Assistant Attorney General for National Security.
Rahatul Ashikim Khan (a.k.a. “Rahat Khan,” “AuthenticTauheed19,” and “AT19”), age 23, was arrested yesterday afternoon at his home in Round Rock, TX. Khan is charged in a federal criminal complaint unsealed in Austin today with conspiring to provide material support to terrorists in violation of Title 18 USC Section 2339A. According to the complaint, from early 2011 to January 2012, he conspired with others to recruit persons to travel overseas to support terrorist activities including committing violent jihad.
Michael Todd Wolfe (a.k.a. “Faruq”), age 23, of Austin, was arrested yesterday at the George H.W. Bush Houston Intercontinental Airport, before boarding a flight to Europe. Wolfe is charged in a separate federal criminal complaint filed in Austin this morning with attempting to provide material support to terrorists in violation of Title 18 USC Section 2339A. According to the complaint, Wolfe planned to travel to the Middle East to provide his services to radical groups engaged in armed conflict in Syria.
“This case is the culmination of a long-term investigation by the FBI and the Joint Terrorism Task Force made up of local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in Central Texas. It’s a textbook example of how well law enforcement agencies in this area work together,” stated United States Attorney Robert Pitman. “Protecting the citizens of this community from the threat of harm both from within the United States and abroad is our highest priority, and we will continue to work with our partners to detect, investigate and prosecute those who seek to advance their ideology through acts of terrorism.”
Khan and Wolfe face up to 15 years in federal prison and a maximum $250,000 fine upon conviction. Both remain in federal custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for Friday at 2:30pm before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Lane in Austin.
Both criminal complaints resulted from a Central Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation together with the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, United States Army Intelligence, Austin Police Department, Round Rock Police Department, Killeen Police Department, University of Texas Police Department, Travis County Sheriff's Office, Texas Department of Public Safety, Office of the Texas Attorney General and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.
Assistant United States Attorneys Gregg N. Sofer and Michael Galdo, together with DOJ Counterterrorism section trial attorneys Josh Parecki and Michael Dittoe, are prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
It is important to note that a criminal complaint is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Killeen Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Obstruction ChargeRead the Press Release
Defendant intimidated witness in trial of Killeen brothers convicted of distributing close to 30 kilograms of cocaine
In Waco, 33-year-old Carrick Mondale Mango of Killeen, TX, faces up to ten years in federal prison after pleading guilty this afternoon to an obstruction of justice charge, namely witness tampering, announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and United States Marshal Robert Almonte.
According to court records, on March 6, 2014, during the trial of U.S. v. Cornelius Tywarren Wilson, et al. (W-13-CR-138) in federal court in Waco, Mango approached a trial witness and instructed the witness not to testify against defendant Christopher Wilson. The witness told deputy U.S. Marshals that Mango gave the witness an intimidating look, which made the witness feel threatened and uncomfortable. The witness took the stand during trial and testified but failed to identify Christopher Wilson, even though they were neighbors.
Mango’s intimidation tactics also included accosting the prosecutor trying the case and intentionally following another government witness to the lobby of the United States Attorney’s Office.
Mango remains in federal custody pending sentencing. Sentencing is scheduled for August 6, 2014, before United States District Judge Walter S. Smith, Jr.
On March 10, 2014, the jury found Christopher and his brother, Cornelius Wilson, guilty of multiple drug charges in connection with their cocaine distribution operation based in Killeen. On April 30, 2014, Christopher and Cornelius Wilson were sentenced to 35 years and 30 years in federal prison, respectively.
Authorities Make Arrests in Connection with Odessa-Based Methamphetamine Distribution OperationRead the Press Release
Federal, state and local authorities have arrested 29 individuals--24 who face federal and five who face state charges--in connection with an Odessa-based methamphetamine distribution operation announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Will Glaspy and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Douglas E. Lindquist. Authorities are still searching for nine defendants charged in connection with this methamphetamine distribution operation. A list of federal defendants is below.
On May 28, 2014, a federal grand jury in Midland returned 14 sealed indictments charging 22 of those arrested with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Seven of the indicted defendants--Fuller, Rendon, Harless, Crosson, Merritt, Powell and Daniels--are also charged with one substantive count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Those indictments were unsealed earlier today. In addition, defendants Smith, Simes and Tolbert, who were already in custody prior to today, were indicted by the federal grand jury prior to last month for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
Authorities allege that under the direction of ringleader 41–year-old Shawn Allen Niece of Odessa, the defendants participated in a methamphetamine distribution scheme since September 2013 that included the supply of methamphetamine from San Diego, CA; Las Vegas, NV; and, Dallas, TX, to Niece and others in Odessa for distribution throughout the Permian Basin.
In addition to the indicted defendants, authorities arrested six other individuals this morning—one charged by a federal criminal complaint for possession with intent to distribute “crack” cocaine; the other five were arrested based on state parole violations or outstanding warrants.
During this investigation, authorities seized over eleven pounds of methamphetamine, several firearms, over $62,000 in United States Currency and other assets.
“Methamphetamine is a destructive poison that has horrific consequences to the quality of life in any community,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Will Glaspy. “Together with our local and federal law enforcement partners, DEA is holding meth traffickers accountable. We are seizing their profits, shutting down their distribution networks, and putting these dealers where they belong, behind bars.”
Upon conviction, the defendants face between ten years and life in federal prison; between five and 40 years in federal prison; or, up to 20 years in federal prison.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
This case resulted from a joint Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Marshals Service together with the Ector County Sheriff’s Office, Midland County Sheriff’s Office, Midland Police Department, Odessa Police Department, and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant United States Attorney V. LaTawn Warsaw is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
DEFENDANTS ARRESTED TODAY (16)
NAME AGE RESIDENCE STATUTORY PENALTY
Jonathan Leelind Hensley (aka GG) 26 Las Vegas, NV 10 years to life imprisonment
Shawn Allen Niece 41 Odessa, TX 10 years to life imprisonment
Shonda Tennille Crosson 37 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prison
Christina Gayle Collier 26 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prison
Jarrett Tate Fuller 34 Amarillo, TX Up to 20 years imprisonment
Jason Mac Rendon 37 Amarillo, TX Up to 20 years imprisonment
David Lane McGill (aka Doughboy) 31 Odessa, TX Up to 20 years imprisonment
Dustin Alan Richey 23 Odessa, TX Up to 20 years imprisonment
Sean David Luna 34 Odessa, TX 10 years to life imprisonment
Gabriel Coca 22 Odessa, TX 10 years to life imprisonment
Annette Jessica Brown 31 Odessa, TX 10 years to life imprisonment
Manuel Urbina 35 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prison
Cristopher Jedidiah Perdue 29 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prison
Erica Marie Mitchell 33 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prison
Brandy Leeann Zaliauskas 39 Midland, TX Up to 20 years imprisonment
(aka Brandy Leeann Carson)
** Charles Eugene Anderson, Jr. 30 Odessa, TX Up to 20 years imprisonmentALREADY IN CUSTODY PRIOR TO TODAY (8)
NAME AGE RESIDENCE STATUTORY PENALTY
Michael James Brewer (aka Levi) 43 Odessa, TX 10 years to life imprisonment
Phillip Ray Powell 24 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prison
Joseph Ray Collier 33 Odessa, TX Up to 20 years imprisonment
Trey Matthew Lopez 23 Odessa, TX 10 years to life imprisonment
Raymond Earl Mims 43 Odessa, TX Up to 20 years imprisonment
Clyde Smith, Jr. 54 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prison
Walter Simes 31 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prison
Cheryl Tolbert 34 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prisonFUGITIVES (9)
NAME AGE RESIDENCE STATUTORY PENALTY
***J. Weslee Dan Harless 36 Odessa, TX Up to 20 years imprisonment
***Joshua Lynn Merritt 32 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prison
***Angelee Danielle Daniels 32 Odessa, TX From 5 to 40 years in prison
***Dylan James Holloway 22 Odessa, TX Up to 20 years imprisonment
***Kaycie Ray Lewis 27 Odessa, TX Up to 20 years imprisonment
Omar Addimm Hensley 23 Las Vegas, NV 10 years to life imprisonment
James Louis Crutcher (aka Seven) 28 San Diego, CA 10 years to life imprisonment
Abrea Ebony Ponce 20 San Diego, CA 10 years to life imprisonment
Dionna Nadine Horton 23 San Diego, CA 10 years to life imprisonmentCharles Anderson was arrested this morning and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute “crack” cocaine.
*** Defendants have since been apprehended and are no longer considered fugitives.
Permian Basin Law Enforcement and Medical Community Getting the Word Out on the Dangers Associated with Designer DrugsRead the Press Release
Federal, state and local law enforcement and medical authorities in the Permian Basin, led by United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Midland County District Attorney Teresa Clingman and Ector County District Attorney Bobby Bland are getting the word out about the dangers associated with synthetic cannabinoids, also known as “synthetic marijuana” and synthetic cathinones, sometimes called “bath salts.”
These synthetic drugs, often referred to as designer drugs, are novel psychoactive substances clandestinely produced to mimic the effects of marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and MDMA. There is no industrial or medical use for these substances. Clandestine chemists duplicate the technical sophistication used by the legitimate drug research community to manufacture new substances which are increasingly popular among recreational drug users. The manufacturers and sellers of synthetic drugs often attempt to mislead users about the legality of the drugs and market the drugs to young people.
Synthetic cannabinoids, also known as synthetic marijuana, “Spice,” “K2,” or “Kush,” comprise a large family of chemically unrelated structures functionally similar to THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in organic marijuana. When ingested, synthetic cannabinoids may produce less, equivalent or more psychoactive activity than THC, but often with pronounced and dangerous side-effects. Synthetic cannabinoid products consist of plant matter that is sprayed with a mixture of acetone and synthetic cannabinoid chemical compounds. These chemicals are unregulated, often produced in China, and imported to the United States where they are then applied to plant matter to render them ingestible. Generally, the product is packaged in foil baggies which falsely state that the product is “herbal incense” and “not for human consumption” in an attempt to avoid prosecution. The product may be sold in brick and mortar “smoke shops,” convenience stores, adult book stores, as well as, over the Internet. Synthetic cannabinoid products are marketed under many different names, including “Scooby Snax,” “Hysteria,” “Mad Monkey,” “Sexy Monkey,” and “Devil Eye.”
Texas poison centers report that between January 2012 and April 2014, there were 2,179 exposures to synthetic cannabinoids. The Texas Poison Center Network warns that the alarming health effects from using these drugs include severe agitation and anxiety; racing heartbeats and high blood pressure; nausea and vomiting; muscle spasm, seizure, and tremors; intense hallucinations and psychotic episodes and suicidal and other harmful thoughts and/or actions.
“Let me be clear about this. This is not marijuana. These are chemical substances that are, to the user, completely unknown and that pose potentially serious health risks. There have been reports in our own community of people, especially young people, who have had potentially serious health effects from their use,” stated U.S. Attorney Pitman. He added, “To the owners and operators of convenience stores and smoke shops who sell illegal designer drugs, we are here to tell you that this is just the beginning of our effort to enforce the law with respect to the sale of these potentially dangerous substances. To people in the community who think that designer drugs are a safe and legal option, we hope that this will provoke an understanding not just that they are illegal, but that you are playing a game of Russian roulette when you put these unregulated and unknown chemicals into your body.”
Last week, Jared William Roach, a 29-year-old former Odessa retailer, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a synthetic cannabinoid with intent to distribute. By pleading guilty, Roach admitted to possessing “Hysteria Black” in his store, Smoke Alley, in May of last year. The contents of “Hysteria Black” included both a controlled substance as well as a controlled substance analog. Roach faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
Kelly Jay Duarte, the 22-year-old former proprietor of Urban City, a retail business in Odessa, faces up to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty last month to one count of possession of a synthetic cannabinoid with intent to distribute. By pleading guilty, Duarte admitted that in May 2013, synthetic cannabinoids packaged under the names of “Diablo,” “KMA,” “Mad Hatter,” and “Hypnotic Haze” were knowingly sold to customers at his business in violation of federal law. Duarte is scheduled to be sentenced on August 14, 2014, before United States District Judge Robert A. Junell in Midland.
Synthetic cathinones, which are structurally and pharmacologically similar to amphetamine, MDMA, and other related substances, are central nervous system stimulants and are sold in retail stores, on the internet, and in head shops as “bath salts,” “plant food,” or “jewelry cleaner.” Synthetic cathinone users report symptoms of increased heart rate, agitation, hypertension and hallucinations. Like the cannabinoids, the ingredients are not disclosed, the production is unregulated and there are significant batch to batch variances.
The United States Attorney’s Office prosecuted and convicted Jimmy Wright, the former owner of B & L adult bookstore in Odessa, of the federal felony criminal offense of possession with intent to distribute the synthetic cathinone, MDVP. Wright was sentenced to a 20-month term of imprisonment. He recently died in prison.
Federal Grand Jury in Del Rio Indicts Carrizo Springs Pair in Smuggling Scheme Involving Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
In Del Rio, a federal grand jury has indicted two Carrizo Springs, TX, residents for their roles in an undocumented immigrant smuggling scheme in which the victims suffered serious bodily injury announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Janice Ayala, San Antonio Division.
The seven–count indictment, returned yesterday, alleges that between May 1, 2014 and May 4, 2014, the defendants, 32–year-old Atanacio Daniel Castro and 22–year-old Eduardo Rocha, Jr., of Carrizo Springs, TX,
knowingly conspired to transport and harbor undocumented aliens and while doing so, caused serious bodily injury to those individuals. The indictment further charges that the defendants threatened to kill, injure or further detain individuals whom they held hostage, in order to compel others to pay ransom money for their release.
According to court records, Castro allegedly struck the hands of two adult male hostages with a hammer and demanded additional payment while the victims were on the phone with family members discussing payment of smuggling fees. Court records also allege that Castro, on multiple occasions, sexually assaulted a smuggled female undocumented alien.
Upon conviction, the defendants face up to life in federal prison for conspiracy to commit hostage taking. Each remaining charge calls for up to 20 years in federal prison upon conviction. Both defendants remain in federal custody pending trial. No trial date has been scheduled.
This indictment resulted from an investigation conducted by HSI agents together with the Dimmit County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew H. Watters and Patrick Burke are prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Austin Man Arrested and Charged in Alleged Laser Strike IncidentRead the Press Release
In Austin today, FBI agents arrested 25–year-old Gabriel Soza Ruedas, Jr., for allegedly pointing a laser at an aircraft flying overhead announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, San Antonio Division.
In February 2012, President Barrack Obama signed the “FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012” and added a new provision that makes it a federal crime to aim a laser pointer at an aircraft. Yesterday, federal authorities filed a criminal complaint charging Ruedas with violating that provision (Title 18 United States Code Section 39A—Aiming a Laser Pointer at an Aircraft). The complaint alleges that on February 15, 2014, Ruedas knowingly aimed the beam of a laser pointer multiple times at an Austin Police Department helicopter that was on approach to land at Austin Bergstrom International Airport.
“Laser strikes can pose serious risks to flight crews, passengers, and even individuals on the ground. They are a serious public safety hazard and will be treated as such by law enforcement officials,” stated United States Attorney Robert Pitman.
Upon conviction, the defendant faces up to five years in federal prison and a maximum $250,000 fine.
“Shining a laser at aircraft can temporarily blind a pilot which could result in the loss of aircraft control and human life. This case should serve as a warning to others who engage in this dangerous criminal activity. The FBI will continue to investigate and pursue prosecution of offenders who threaten aviation safety,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs.
This indictment resulted from an investigation conducted by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation together with the Austin Police Department and the Texas Attorney General’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Gregg Sofer is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Reported incidents of laser strikes are on the rise. Since the FBI and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) began tracking laser strikes in 2005, statistics reflect a more than 1,100% increase in the deliberate targeting of aircraft by people with handheld lasers. In 2013, there were a total of 3,960 laser strikes reported – an average of almost 11 incidents per day.
Earlier this year, the FBI announced the inception of the Laser Threat Awareness Campaign, a nationwide effort led by the FBI in collaboration with the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) and the FAA to raise awareness of aircraft laser illumination threats. If you have information about a lasing incident, contact the San Antonio Division of the FBI at 210-225-6741. If you see someone pointing a laser at an aircraft, call the nearest local law enforcement agency immediately by dialing 911. Tips can also be submitted online at https://tips.fbi.gov.
Eagle Pass Texas Mexican Mafia Members Arrested for Violating Federal Racketeering Influenced Corrupt Organization (RICO) and Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering (VICAR) StatutesRead the Press Release
Fourteen Texas Mexican Mafia (TMM) members, including leader Jesus Lopez (aka “Worst Ever”), are in custody today charged with violating the Racketeering Influenced Corrupt Organization (RICO) Act to include alleged acts of murder, extortion and drug trafficking in the Eagle Pass area. Five members also face charges under the Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering (VICAR) statute. A list of the indicted defendants is below.
That announcement was made earlier today by United States Attorney Robert Pitman; Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, San Antonio Division; Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steve McCraw; Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Joseph A. Arabit, Houston Division; Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Janice Ayala; and, Chief Patrol Agent Rodolfo Karisch, U.S. Border Patrol, Del Rio Sector.
A five-count federal grand jury indictment, returned on Wednesday and unsealed today, charges all 14 defendants with one count of conspiracy violate the RICO Act. Jesus Lopez, Anselmo Flores, Francisco Hernandez, Hector Martinez and Esteban Munoz are also charged with two counts of Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering. Raul Herrera and Reynaldo Vivian are each charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
The indictment alleges that Flores, under the direction of Lopez and others, stabbed and murdered Eagle Pass resident Angel Cantu on January 22, 2011, while other TMM members stood guard with weapons. Furthermore, TMM members provided Flores with money to leave town after the murder to deflect law enforcement attention from the criminal enterprise. At the time of Cantu’s murder, the indictment alleges that Hernandez, aided and abetted by Lopez, Flores, Martinez and Munoz, assaulted another individual with a dangerous weapon.
The indictment further alleges that all 14 defendants conspired in the distribution of narcotics as well as the extortion of cocaine distributors in Eagle Pass since 2009. According to the indictment, proceeds from the distribution and extortion were transferred to the San Antonio branch of the TMM.
The indictment also alleges that around early December 2010, Lopez ordered Martinez, Hernandez, Flores and others to retrieve and destroy firearms, which they did, that were used during the attempted murder of an individual who provided information about the TMM to law enforcement.
Hernandez, Lopez, Flores, Martinez and Munoz face a mandatory life in prison sentence upon conviction of violent crime in aid of racketeering. Those five defendants, along with Herrera, face up to life in federal prison upon conviction of the RICO Conspiracy charge. The other eight defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison upon conviction of the RICO Conspiracy charge. Herrera faces between 5 and 40 years in federal on the drug conspiracy charge; Vivian, up to 20 years in federal prison on the drug conspiracy charge.
Beginning last night and continuing this morning, federal, state and local authorities arrested Michael Eric Cantu, Esteban Munoz, and Reynaldo Vivian in Eagle Pass; Claudio Salinas in Del Rio; and, Anselmo Flores near Bismarck, ND. The remaining defendants were already in custody prior to today.
This case resulted from a joint investigation by the FBI, Texas Rangers, Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division, DEA, HSI and Border Patrol.
An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Name Age Residence
**JESUS LOPEZ, aka “Jessie,” aka “Worst Ever” 35 Eagle Pass
**GERARDO CASTILLO, aka “Jerry,” aka “Chingo Bling” 32 Eagle Pass
**SALOMON MARTINEZ, aka “Salo” 39 Eagle Pass
**IVAN VELASQUEZ, aka “Pipi” 35* Eagle Pass
**JOSE ALEJANDRO MALDONADO, aka “Chivia” 34 Eagle Pass
CLAUDIO SALINAS, aka “Conejo” 34 Del Rio
**JUAN CARLOS LEDEZMA, aka “Yogi” 31 Eagle Pass
MICHAEL ERIC CANTU, aka “Miklo” 28 Eagle Pass
ANSELMO FLORES, aka “Chemo” 26 formerly of Eagle Pass
**FRANCISCO JAVIER HERNANDEZ, aka “Coco” 35 Eagle Pass
**HECTOR ANGEL MARTINEZ, aka “Tonka” 35 Eagle Pass
**RAUL ADRIAN HERRERA, aka “Nano” 35 Eagle Pass
ESTEBAN MUNOZ, aka “Rock” 31 Eagle Pass
REYNALDO VIVIAN, aka “Rey” 35 Eagle Pass** Were already in custody prior to today’s arrests
San Antonio Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Escaping Half-Way House and Robbing A San Antonio BankRead the Press Release
In San Antonio this morning, 45-year-old Malcolm David Brooks was sentenced to 92 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for escaping from a half-way house and robbing a San Antonio bank in 2012 announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, United States Marshal Robert Almonte and FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, San Antonio Division.
On February 21, 2014, Brooks pleaded guilty to one count of escape and one count of unarmed bank robbery. By pleading guilty, Brooks admitted that in early February 2012, he escaped from custody in a half-way house in San Antonio. Brooks was serving the remainder of a 140-month federal prison sentence imposed in El Paso in 2002 for committing seven 2001 bank robberies in Missouri, Oklahoma, Colorado and Texas. On February 13, 2012, approximately one week after his escape, Brooks stole approximately $1,200 from a Wells Fargo branch in San Antonio. San Antonio Police officers were able to apprehend Brooks after he barricaded himself inside a restroom of a nearby restaurant.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshals Service together with the San Antonio Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Michael Hardy prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
D'Hanis Man Charged with Manufacturing Pipe BombsRead the Press Release
Earlier today, federal agents arrested 20-year-old Michael Keich, of D’Hanis, TX, for manufacturing an unregistered weapon and manufacture of an explosive without a license announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, San Antonio Division.
While executing a search warrant at the defendant’s residence this morning, FBI and ATF special agents recovered a pipe bomb as well as materials used in the production of explosive devices. According to the criminal complaint filed in this case, Keich admitted that he manufactured pipe bombs despite knowing that such activity was illegal.
Upon conviction, Keich faces up to ten years in federal prison. He remains in federal custody pending a detention hearing later this week.
This investigation is being conducted by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Uvalde County Sheriff’s Office, and the Medina County Sheriff’s Office. Bombs squads from the FBI and San Antonio Police Department rendered the suspected device safe outside the defendant’s residence. Special Assistant United States Attorney Carah Helwig is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
A criminal complaint is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Sinaloa Cartel Bodyguard Pleads Guilty to Federal Murder Charge in El PasoRead the Press Release
In El Paso, 32-year-old Rigoberto Ruiz-Alatorre, a Mexican citizen living in Denver, CO, faces a maximum of 28 years in federal prison after pleading guilty this afternoon to murdering a member of his drug trafficking organization announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Drug Enforcement Administration Acting Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott, El Paso Division, and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Douglas E. Lindquist, El Paso Division.
On the third day of his trial on federal drug and firearms charges, Ruiz-Alatorre, an admitted drug trafficker and former bodyguard for Sinaloa narcotrafficker Gabino Salas-Valenciano (aka “El Ingeniero”), pleaded guilty to one count of murder resulting from the use or carrying of firearms during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. By pleading guilty, Ruiz admitted to trafficking over 1,000 kilograms of marijuana in both the Western District of Texas and the District of New Mexico from 2002 to 2006; and, while in Albuquerque, NM, in July 2006, he shot and killed Roswell, NM, resident Fermin Rodriguez-Gonzalez to facilitate his narcotics trafficking operation and to prevent Rodriguez-Gonzalez from providing law enforcement with details of Ruiz’ narcotics trafficking activities.
Ruiz remains in federal custody pending sentencing. Sentencing is scheduled for September 3, 2014, before United States District Judge Frank Montalvo.
This joint investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation together with the United States Border Patrol and the Bernalillo County (NM) Sheriff’s Office.
San Antonio Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
In San Antonio, 32-year-old Jorge Pena, Jr., was sentenced to 150 months in federal prison followed by 25 years of supervised release for distributing child pornography announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Janice Ayala.
Court records reflect that HSI agents who were conducting an investigation into on-line exploitation of minors executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in February 2012 and seized several computers and related equipment. A subsequent forensics examination of the seized items revealed the presence of hundreds of videos and images depicting sexual exploitation of pre-pubescent children.
On March 12, 2014, Pena pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography. By pleading guilty, Pena admitted to viewing child pornography since approximately 2005 and knowingly distributing at least 19 files which contained child pornography to other individuals via the Internet.
“By conducting these types of investigations, HSI is taking child predators off the Internet, off the streets, and putting them behind bars,” said Special Agent in Charge, Janice Ayala, HSI San Antonio. “Targeting these crimes against children is a high priority for HSI. We will continue to dedicate law enforcement resources to identify and bring to justice child predators that traumatize and victimize children.”
This case was investigated by special agents with HSI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tracy Thompson.
Former Contract Employee Indicted for Theft of an Estimated $478,000 in U.S. Postal Service PropertyRead the Press Release
Marvis Charles Box, age 67, of Converse, TX, stands charged with stealing an estimated $478,000 of United States Postal Service equipment announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and U.S. Postal Inspection Service Inspector in Charge Robert Wemyss, Houston Division.
A federal grand jury indictment, returned on May 7, 2014, and unsealed following Box’s arrest on Tuesday, charges the defendant with three counts of theft of Government property. Upon conviction, Box faces up to ten years in federal prison per count.
As a U.S. Postal Service contract employee, Box was responsible for transporting mail to and from the Canyon Lake Post Office. The indictment specifically alleges that on three separate occasions—November 25, 2013; November 30, 2013; and, December 4, 2013—Box stole U.S. Postal Service mail transportation equipment and sold it for personal financial gain. The indictment also includes a demand for forfeiture wherein the Government is seeking a monetary judgment in the amount of $478,169.75. That figure represents the total amount of proceeds allegedly derived from the defendant’s overall mail equipment theft scheme.
Box remains in federal custody pending the outcome of a detention hearing scheduled for 10:00am on May 27, 2014, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Henry Bemporad.
This case was investigated by inspectors with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Hardy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Central Texas Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
In Waco, 61-year-old Gary Joe Smith of Morgan, TX, was sentenced to six years in federal prison for possession of child pornography announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Janice Ayala.
During the sentencing hearing held yesterday afternoon, United States District Judge Walter S. Smith, Jr., also ordered that Smith pay a $2,500 fine and be placed under supervised release for a period of five years after completing his prison term. Smith remains on bond pending Bureau of Prisons facility designation.
According to court records, HSI agents who were conducting an investigation into on-line exploitation of minors executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence on April 23, 2013, and seized his home computer. A subsequent forensics examination of the defendant’s computer revealed the presence of over 600 images depicting child pornography. On March 6, 2014, Smith pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.
“This sentence sends a clear message that those who exploit children in any way will face serious consequences,” said Special Agent in Charge Janice Ayala, HSI San Antonio. “Preventing and investigating crimes against children is a high priority for HSI. We will continue to dedicate law enforcement resources to identify and bring to justice child predators that traumatize and victimize children.”
This case was investigated by special agents with HSI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Greg Gloff.Odessan Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
Kelly Jay Duarte, the 22-year-old former proprietor of Urban City, a retail business in Odessa, faces up to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty earlier today to one count of possession of a synthetic cannabinoid with intent to distribute announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Douglas E. Lindquist, El Paso Division.
By pleading guilty, Duarte admitted that in May 2013, synthetic cannabinoids packaged under the names of “Diablo,” “KMA,” “Mad Hatter,” and “Hypnotic Haze” were knowingly sold to customers at his business in violation of federal law.
Duarte remains on bond pending sentencing. A sentencing date has yet to be scheduled.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Odessa Police Department with lab assistance provided by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney John Klassen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.El Paso Man Pleads Guilty to Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
In El Paso, 48-year-old Tomas Steven Quinones faces between 15 and 30 years in federal prison after pleading guilty earlier today to one count of production of child pornography announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Dennis Ulrich.
On August 29, 2013, HSI agents executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence and seized over 90 assorted computers, accessories and other miscellaneous items including laptop computers, desktop computers, computer hard drives, thumb drives, memory sticks, flash drives, CDs, DVDs and VHS tapes. During an on-site forensics examination of the seized items, authorities discovered hundreds of image files and video files which are indicative of child pornography. By pleading guilty, Quinones admitted to producing a video in December 2010 which contained child pornography. Specifically, Quinones admitted to knowingly persuading and enticing two minors to take part in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a video depiction of such conduct. Quinones is seen and heard throughout the video instructing the children on how to have sex.
Quinones remains in federal custody pending sentencing. No sentencing date has been scheduled.
Assistant United States Attorney Rifian Newaz is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.Killeen Brothers Sentenced to Lengthy Federal Prison Terms for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
In Waco, 30-year-old Christopher Andrew and 32–year-old Cornelius Tywarren Wilson were sentenced to 35 years and 30 years in federal prison, respectively, for their roles in a cocaine distribution operation based in Killeen, Texas, announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Christopher H. Combs, San Antonio Division and Killeen Police Chief Dennis M. Baldwin.
In addition to the prison terms, United States District Judge Walter S. Smith, Jr. ordered that the brothers pay a fine—Chris, $2000; Cornelius, $1,500—and be placed under supervised release for a period of ten years after completing their respective prison terms.
On March 10, 2014, a federal jury in Waco found Christopher Wilson, Cornelius Wilson and 29–year-old Bryant Keith Pressley guilty of multiple drug charges. The jury also found Cornelius Wilson guilty of possession of a Ruger handgun during a drug trafficking crime on May 14, 2013. Presley is scheduled to be sentenced on May 28, 2014.
Evidence presented during trial revealed that from April 2011 to May 2013, the organization led by the Wilson brothers was responsible for the distribution of close to 30 kilograms of cocaine and “crack” cocaine in Killeen and the surrounding area.
The Wilson brothers and Presley were among eight Killeen residents indicted and convicted of federal drug charges in connection with this cocaine distribution operation. The other five defendants--39-year-old Jamel Azar Singleton, 31–year-old Jason Eugene Jackson, 31-year-old Katrie Deshone Simpson, 39–year-old Michael Anthony Mango and 34–year-old Kevin Elthonda Lee--entered guilty pleas prior to jury selection and received federal prison sentences ranging from 18 months to 151 months.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) together with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Killeen Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Mark Frazier and former Assistant United States Attorney Sean Condron are prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
Federal Prison Terms Handed Down in Sex Trafficking of A Minor CaseRead the Press Release
This afternoon, 32-year-old Ivan Gonzales of San Antonio was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison followed by 20 years of supervised release for his role in a sex trafficking scheme involving a minor announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Christopher H. Combs, San Antonio Division.
On October 2, 2013, Gonzales pleaded guilty to one count of sex trafficking of a minor. By pleading guilty, Gonzales admitted that in December 2012, he recruited and enticed a minor female to engage in sexual activity for financial gain. According to court records, Gonzales and his girlfriend, 19–year-old Ashley Nicole Gonzales of San Antonio, posted advertisements to promote the minor, explained prostitution terminology to her, told her how to conduct business, and transported her to locations where she would meet clients and perform sexual activity. Court records also revealed that Ivan Gonzales and Ashley Gonzales took all of the proceeds from the scheme.
On January 7, 2014, U.S. District Judge Xavier Rodriguez sentenced Ashley Gonzales to three years in federal prison followed by one year of supervised release for her role in the scheme.
This investigation was conducted by the agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Bettina Richardson prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Jury Convicts Dallas Area Man for Role in Murder Plot in Connection with 2013 Fort Sam Houston Shooting IncidentRead the Press Release
A Richardson, TX, man faces up to life in federal prison after a federal jury in San Antonio convicted him this morning for plotting with his uncle to kill his uncle’s intimate partner announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher H. Combs, San Antonio Division, and United States Marshal Robert Almonte.
Jurors convicted 29-year-old Leonard Roundtree, III, of one count of conspiracy to commit murder. Evidence presented during trial revealed that on June 10, 2013, Roundtree’s uncle, 52-year-old Alvin Leon Roundtree of San Antonio, shot and wounded his intimate partner with a .45 caliber handgun inside the Medical Training Facility located on Fort Sam Houston Army Post. The victim, who suffered a total of seven gunshot wounds, was immediately taken into surgery and survived the incident. Authorities subsequently apprehended Roundtree while still on Fort Sam Houston and recovered the firearm.
During the trial, recorded phone calls between Leonard Roundtree and his uncle revealed that the two conspired to hire someone to kill Alvin’s intimate partner to prevent her testimony in the upcoming federal trial. The evidence revealed that Leonard Roundtree agreed to, and in fact did, deliver information between his uncle and the hitman ultimately agreeing to pay $10,000 upon proof the murder.
“Leonard Roundtree facilitated the murderous plot that his uncle initiated. Fortunately, the crime was thwarted and the victim did not suffer additional harm. Roundtree’s participation in the crime revealed callous disregard for human life and he will pay a severe penalty for his conduct,” stated U.S. Attorney Robert Pitman.
Leonard Roundtree is scheduled to be sentenced on August 1, 2014. In March, Alvin Roundtree pleaded guilty to one count of assaulting an officer or employee of the United States with a deadly weapon and is awaiting sentencing scheduled for September 12, 2014. Alvin Roundtree still faces two counts of conspiracy to commit murder.
“The collective investigative efforts of Army Criminal Investigative Division, United States Marshals Service, San Antonio Police Department and the FBI came together in this case and stopped a plot from becoming a violent and cold blooded murder of a victim and witness in a criminal prosecution,” stated FBI SAC Christopher Combs.
“I am extremely proud of the collaborative work done by our task force and I am also pleased with the jury’s guilty verdict,” stated U.S. Marshal Robert Almonte.
Assistant United States Attorneys Bettina Richardson and Joey Contreras are prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
Eagle Pass Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Faking Her Own Kidnapping for Ransom MoneyRead the Press Release
In Del Rio this afternoon, 25-year-old Julia Esmeralda Garza of Eagle Pass, TX, was sentenced to 11 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for her role in a fraudulent kidnapping scheme announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse, San Antonio Division.
According to court records, on May 8, 2013, Garza used her cellphone to make phone calls and send text messages to a friend in attempt to obtain approximately $700 in ransom money. During the scheme, Garza fraudulently claimed that she had been kidnapped, threatened and was being held against her will in Mexico. The friend notified local police of the potential kidnapping. On November 20, 2013, Garza pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
“This case demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to investigate and seek prosecution of individuals, who participate in fraudulent schemes, which compromise public safety by diverting valuable law enforcement resources away from true victims,” stated FBI ASAC Rouse.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation together with Eagle Pass Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Lewis Thomas prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Former U.S. Army Soldier Sentenced to Nearly 30 Years in Federal Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
In Waco this afternoon, 41-year-old former U.S. Army sergeant Gary Allen Burgess was sentenced to 340 months in federal prison for production of child pornography announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse, San Antonio Division.
In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Walter S. Smith, Jr. ordered that Burgess pay a $1,000 fine and $80,000 restitution to his victim. Judge Smith also ordered that Burgess be placed under supervised release for a period of eight years after completing his prison term.
On June 6, 2013, Burgess pleaded guilty to one count of production of child pornography. According to court records, in late 2011, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division authorities executed a search authorization at the defendant’s residence on Fort Hood based on a report of a sexual assault of a minor. A forensic examination of various seized electronic media which belonged to the defendant revealed the presence of approximately 80 sexually explicit images involving an individual under the age of 12.
Burgess has remained in federal custody since his arrest in December 2012.
In October 2013, Burgess’ wife, Caroline, was sentenced to two years in federal prison followed by one year of supervised release and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine after pleading guilty to one count of tampering with a witness, victim or informant. According to court records, in March 2012, Caroline Burgess attempted to persuade a minor victim in this case to recant allegations of sexual abuse against Gary Burgess.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation together with the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant United States Attorney Greg Gloff prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Austin Businessman Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
In Austin, 67-year-old President and Chief Executive Officer of Image Trends, Inc. Daniel J. Sullivan faces up to ten years in federal prison after pleading guilty earlier today to one count of possession of child pornography announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Janice Ayala.
In March 2012, HSI agents executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence and business. A subsequent forensics examination of seized computer related items revealed the presence of approximately 600 images and 90 videos depicting child pornography.
Sullivan remains on bond pending sentencing. No sentencing date has been scheduled.
Assistant United States Attorney Matt Devlin is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.Surveyor in Maverick County Pleads Guilty in Connection with Bribery, Kickback and Bid-Rigging SchemeRead the Press Release
Marcelo Alvarez, a 55-year-old surveyor and consultant from Eagle Pass, faces up to ten years in federal prison and full restitution to Maverick County after pleading guilty to a bribery charge in connection with an alleged bribery, kickback and bid-rigging scheme announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse.
Appearing before United States District Judge Alia Moses this afternoon in Del Rio, Alvarez pleaded guilty to one count of paying a bribe to an agent of an organization receiving federal funds. According to court documents, between 2010 and 2012, Alvarez paid $100 to $200 on multiple occasions to Maverick County elected officials, including two county commissioners, for their support in securing county construction projects. Ultimately, Maverick County paid in excess of $800,000 to Amistad Consulting, a company which Alvarez was connected to, to perform engineering, project management and consulting services for the county. Alvarez, designated by Amistad Consulting as the Resident Project Representative, received payment for his services of approximately $300,000 between 2010 and 2012.Alvarez remains on bond pending sentencing scheduled for October 1, 2014.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Individuals who have first-hand information about corruption, fraud, or bribery related to Maverick County are urged to contact the FBI at (210) 225-6741. Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Galdo and Bryan N. Reeves are prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
San Antonio Businessmen Sentenced to Federal Prison for A Fraud and Tax Scheme Involving More Than $130 Million in Real Dollar LossesRead the Press Release
In San Antonio this morning, United States Chief District Judge Fred Biery handed down prison sentences to two individuals for their roles in what is believed to be the largest real dollar loss fraud and tax related case ever prosecuted in the Western District of Texas announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse and IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Steve McCollough.
Larry Kimes, the manager of AccounTex Financial Services, LLC, was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $132 million restitution after pleading guilty to a Klein tax fraud conspiracy charge and a mail fraud conspiracy charge last month.
Charles Pircher, manager of a series of Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) based in San Antonio, including Service Professionals, was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $132 million restitution after pleading guilty to a Klein tax fraud conspiracy charge and a mail fraud conspiracy charge in November 2013.
“The sentencing of so-called ‘white collar’ defendants to significant terms of imprisonment such as the judge imposed in this case today should send a strong message to those who concoct fraudulent schemes - schemes that result in real losses to real people,” stated United States Attorney Robert Pitman.
In February, three other individuals who also entered guilty pleas in connection with this fraudulent scheme were sentenced to federal prison by Judge Biery. John Bean, owner of Synergy Personnel, a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) based in San Antonio, as well as an agent, representative, officer, license holder and accountant of several San Antonio and Austin based PEOs, including Service Professionals; Pat Mire, owner and manager of several San Antonio-based PEOs, including Service Professionals; and, Mike Solis, an executive assistant at several San Antonio based PEOs, including Service Professionals, were sentenced to six years, three years and three years in federal prison, respectively.
By pleading guilty, the defendants admitted that between 2002 and 2008, they participated in a scheme in which they stole more than $130 Million from the clients of a series of PEOs operated by the defendants. The PEOs entered into staff leasing agreements with various client companies to manage the companies’ payroll and insurance programs. Kimes, Pircher and the other co-conspirators diverted to their own use and benefit clients’ monies that should have been paid for payroll taxes and insurance premiums.
“The defendants involved in this, the largest ever single criminal tax case in San Antonio's history, knowingly violated our country's Tax laws. They chose to ignore their responsibilities and live a lavish lifestyle on money belonging to their employees and to the U.S. Government. IRS Special Agents will continue to aggressively pursue these types of very serious tax crimes,” stated IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Steve McCollough.
“Motivated by greed, the defendants perpetrated an extensive fraud scheme, designed to steal money from their clients and taxpayers over a number of years. The FBI will continue to work with our partners to identify, investigate and prosecute others, like the defendants, who seek unjust enrichment by victimizing others,” stated FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse.
This case was investigated by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Thomas J. McHugh prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Austin Area Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for A String of RobberiesRead the Press Release
In Austin today, 52-year-old Randall David Reed of Dripping Springs, TX, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for six robberies, including five banks and one grocery store, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse.
In addition to the prison term, United States District Judge Lee Yeakel ordered that Reed pay restitution totaling $32,430 and be placed under supervised release for a period of three years after completing his prison term.
On February 5, 2014, Reed pleaded guilty to five counts of bank robbery, one count of violating the Hobbs Act (robbery which affects interstate commerce), and the firearm charge. According to court records, Reed admitted that he committed the following robberies:
- February 28, 2013 -- Randalls grocery store (2000 block of West Ben White Blvd. in Austin) – $3,000
- March 25, 2013 – Pioneer Bank (100 block of Wonder World Dr. in San Marcos) – $8,312
- May 3, 2013 – Prosperity Bank (12000 block of Research Blvd. in Austin) – $2,200
- May 21, 2013 – Northstar Bank (1500 block of West 35th St. in Austin) – $3,552
- July 3, 2013 – Broadway Bank (13400 block of US Hwy 281 in San Antonio) – $1,500
- July 26, 2013 – Benchmark Bank (1500 block of West 35th St. in Austin) -- $13,866
Furthermore, Reed admitted to carrying a handgun during all of the robberies and even brandishing a handgun during the July 26, 2013, robbery.
This case was investigated by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the police departments from Austin, San Marcos and San Antonio. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew B. Devlin prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Federal Prison Sentences Handed Down in El Paso Alien Smuggling CaseRead the Press Release
This morning, 63-year-old El Paso commercial truck driver Rogelio Munoz Chavarria was sentenced to four months in federal prison followed by two years of supervised release and fined $2,000 for his role in an undocumented alien smuggling scheme announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent In Charge Dennis Ulrich.
Chavarria’s sentencing comes one day after U.S. District Judge Philip R. Martinez sentenced co-defendant and ringleader Refugio Aide Diaz Martinez, a 45-year-old Mexican National who had been residing illegally in the Dallas area, to six years in federal prison and ordered her to pay a $12,500 fine. In February, Diaz’s husband and co-ringleader, 46-year-old Robert “Beto” Perez, Jr. of Dallas, was sentenced to eight years in federal prison and fined $15,000 for his role in the scheme. All three had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to smuggle undocumented aliens for financial gain.
According to court records, since September 2008, Diaz, Perez, Chavarria and 12 other convicted individuals were involved in an alien smuggling ring based in Dallas, Texas. This organization was responsible for the smuggling, transporting and harboring of more than 150 undocumented aliens, including at least 18 minors, through the El Paso/Juarez corridor. Sentences handed down thus far in this case range from probation to eight years in federal prison.
Two other commercial truck drivers--51-year-old Lazaro Echeverria of Miami Gardens, FL, and 46-year-old Cesar Delgadillo of Hesperia, CA—are scheduled for sentencing on April 23, 2014, and May 14, 2014, respectively. Each faces up to ten years in federal prison for conspiring to smuggle undocumented aliens for financial gain.
This investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant United States Attorney Patricia Aguayo is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
Antonio Pena-Arguelles Sentenced to Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Commit Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
In San Antonio, 58-year-old Antonio Pena-Arguelles, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for his role in a money laundering conspiracy announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman of the Western District of Texas, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson of the Southern District of Texas, Acting Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Steven S. Whipple, Houston Division, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Special Agent In Charge Steve McCollough, Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent In Charge Janice Ayala and Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott.
Appearing before U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia this afternoon, Pena-Arguelles pleaded guilty to a one-count Superseding Information filed today charging him with conspiracy to commit money laundering. In addition to the prison sentence imposed, Pena-Arguelles agreed to forfeit to the federal government approximately $5.5 million in U.S. currency and real estate property.
Pena-Arguelles remains in federal custody.
This matter was investigated by the DEA, IRS-Criminal Investigation, HSI and the Texas Attorney General’s Office and prosecuted with the assistance of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas.
Life in Federal Prison for Midland Aryan Circle Member for Distributing Methamphetamine and Retaliating Against A WitnessRead the Press Release
In Midland this afternoon, 26-year-old Aryan Circle member Kevin Dwain Rickman (a.k.a. “Birdie”) of Midland, was sentenced to life in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine and retaliating against a witness announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and FBI Special Agent in Charge Douglas E. Lindquist, El Paso Division.
On September 23, 2013, Rickman pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of retaliating against a witness or victim. By pleading guilty, Rickman admitted that between June 2005 and June 2013, he and others conspired to distribute ounce quantities of methamphetamine in the Permian Basin area. Rickman also admitted that on May 5, 2013, he knowingly caused bodily injury to an individual for providing information to law enforcement.
“Today’s sentencing of Mr. Rickman, a documented Aryan Circle member, serves as a strong message to the community of Midland and Odessa that the FBI is committed to pursue individuals who have violated the law and hold them accountable for their illegal actions. This sentencing concludes an 18-month investigation by the FBI, Odessa Police Department, Midland County and the Ector County Sheriff’s Department and furthers the partnership between law enforcement agencies in combating violent criminal offenders,” stated FBI SAC Lindquist.
Former Sabinal Police Officer Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Former Sabinal (TX) police officer Jason Lee Villasana will serve 15 years in federal prison followed by ten years of supervised release after pleading guilty to distributing child pornography announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse, San Antonio Division.
On August 21, 2013, Villasana, age 36, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography. According to court records, from May 2011 until November 15, 2012, Villasana received, stored and sent images and videos of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. On November 15, 2012, FBI agents and investigators from the Texas Attorney General’s Law Enforcement Division executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence and seized various electronic media belonging to the defendant. A subsequent forensics examination of the seized items revealed the presence of approximately 250 images, seven videos and 64 thumbnail images of child pornography.
Villasana has remained in federal custody since his arrest on December 18, 2012. The sentence was handed down yesterday afternoon in Del Rio by U.S. District Judge David A. Ezra.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation together with the Texas Attorney General’s Law Enforcement Division and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant United States Attorneys Meghan M. McCalla and Matthew Watters prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.Austin Area Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing Millions from Pension PlansRead the Press Release
In Austin, 64-year-old Lakeway resident Ricky Lynn Richardson faces up to five years in federal prison, a maximum $250,000 fine and restitution after pleading guilty this morning to stealing millions from pension plans announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse, San Antonio Division.
Appearing before United States Magistrate Judge Andrew Austin, Richardson pleaded guilty to a one-count Information charging him with theft and embezzlement from an employee benefit plan. According to authorities, from 1998 to 2013, Richardson stole approximately $4.3 million from four separate pension plans for which he provided administrative services. During the scheme, Richardson, doing business as Benefit Consultants, Inc. in Spicewood, TX, secretly misdirected or misappropriated money that belonged to the plans and provided customers with false statements, leading them to believe they still had the retirement money.
Richardson is out on bond pending sentencing. No sentencing date has been scheduled. The restitution amount in this case will be determined by the Court at sentencing.
This investigation was conducted by agents with Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Employees Benefits Security Administration of the Department of Labor. Assistant United States Attorney Alan M. Buie is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
Former San Antonio Police Officer Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
This afternoon, 37-year-old former San Antonio Police Officer Curtis W. Lundy was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison followed by two years of supervised release for theft of honest services by wire fraud announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse and San Antonio Police Chief William McManus.
According to court records, on December 15, 2012, then Officer Lundy responded to a call concerning an assault in progress at a Northside apartment complex. At the scene, Lundy detained an individual in connection with the assault after that individual admitted to Lundy that he was in possession of a user amount of marijuana. While the subject was detained, Lundy indicated that he would hold off on filing the possession of marijuana charge in exchange for a $400 payment. During subsequent phone conversations, Lundy raised the payment to $500.
The subject subsequently contacted the FBI and at the agency’s direction, the subject was able to make multiple audio recordings of cellular telephone conversations with Lundy. During one of those conversations, Lundy instructed the subject to meet in order to collect the $500. Surveillance observed Lundy, the sole occupant, arrive in a marked SAPD patrol vehicle and collect an envelope from the subject which contained $500.
Lundy pleaded guilty to the charge on October 10, 2013.
This case was investigated by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation together with San Antonio Police Department Internal Affairs. Assistant United States Attorney Greg Surovic prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
San Antonio Woman Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking of ChildrenRead the Press Release
In San Antonio this morning, 20-year-old Amber Doak pleaded guilty to her role in prostituting a 15-year-old female in August of last year announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse, San Antonio Division.
Appearing before United States Chief District Judge Fred Biery this morning, Doak pleaded guilty to one count of sex trafficking of children. By pleading guilty, Doak admitted to knowingly enticing and encouraging a minor into engaging in sexual acts for money. She also admitted to using a mobile phone provided by 38–year-old co-defendant Marcus Deshawn Wright to take pictures of the victim so that Wright and another co-defendant, 21-year-old Malcom Deandre Copeland of San Antonio, could use them to promote the minor on an Internet website which advertised prostitution services under the pretext of "escorts." Furthermore, Doak admitted that she fielded inquiries from individuals responding to the prostitution advertisement on Backpage.com and also traveled with Wright and Copeland as they transported the victim to multiple locations to engage in commercial sex.
Doak, who remains in federal custody, faces between ten years and life in federal prison when she is sentenced by Judge Biery on September 12, 2014.
Copeland and Wright, who are also in federal custody, are set for jury selection and trial on April 7, 2014, before Judge Biery on the sex trafficking of children charge.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) together with the San Antonio Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Bettina Richardson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
San Antonio Man Pleads Guilty to Shooting Intimate Partner on Fort Sam HoustonRead the Press Release
A San Antonio man faces up to 20 years in federal prison after admitting to shooting his intimate partner multiple times on Fort Sam Houston Army Post in June 2013 announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse, San Antonio Division, and United States Marshal Robert Almonte.
Appearing before United States Chief District Judge Fred Biery this morning, 52-year-old Alvin Leon Roundtree pleaded guilty to one count of assaulting an officer or employee of the United States with a deadly weapon. By pleading guilty, Roundtree admitted that on the afternoon of June 10, 2013, he entered Fort Sam Houston and proceeded to the Medical Training Facility where his intimate partner was an instructor. After a verbal altercation regarding her decision to leave the defendant, Roundtree pulled out a .45 caliber handgun and began firing at his victim.
According to court records, the victim suffered a total of seven gunshot wounds. The victim was immediately taken into surgery. She survived the incident. Authorities subsequently apprehended Roundtree while still on Fort Sam Houston and recovered the firearm.
Roundtree, who remains in federal custody, is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Biery on September 12, 2014.
Roundtree’s nephew and co-defendant, 29-year-old Leonard Roundtree, Jr. of Richardson, TX, is awaiting his April 21, 2014, trial date on charges that he conspired with Alvin Roundtree to hire someone to kill Alvin’s intimate partner to prevent her testimony and in retaliation for providing information to law enforcement. According to court records, Leonard Roundtree allegedly agreed to deliver a pre-payment of $1,000 to the individual solicited to commit the murder plus $9,000 more after the murder was carried out.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) together with the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division, United States Marshals Service and the San Antonio Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Bettina Richardson is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
Odessa Businessman Pleads Guilty to Underpaying Taxes OwedRead the Press Release
Jose Luis Suarez, owner of Air One Mobile Welding Supply Company in Odessa, TX, faces up to 20 years in federal prison and full restitution after admitting to underpaying taxes owed to the federal government and the State of Texas announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Dennis Ulrich and IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Steve McCollough.
Appearing yesterday in Midland before United States Magistrate Judge David Counts, Suarez pleaded guilty to six counts of wire fraud and two counts of filing fraudulent federal Income Tax Returns.
By pleading guilty, Suarez admitted that he knowingly filed Income Tax Returns for 2011 and 2012 in which he did not include all of Air One’s gross receipts. According to court records, Suarez still owes more than $151,000 in federal taxes for 2011 and more than $77,000 in federal taxes for 2012 according to an Internal Revenue Service assessment.
Suarez, as company owner, was also ultimately responsible for all quarterly sales tax filings with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. According to court records, beginning on or about the first quarter of 2011, and continuing through at least the first quarter of 2013, Suarez intentionally devised a scheme to defraud the State of Texas of sales taxes collected by Air One in the course of its business, and properly owed to the State. As part of this scheme, Defendant Suarez filed, or caused to be filed with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts a series of six Sales and Use Tax Returns that materially and fraudulently underreported the amount of taxable sales achieved by Air One. The aggregate underpayment of sales taxes to the State of Texas by Air One is estimated by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts to be $264,314.03.
Suarez remains on bond pending sentencing. No sentencing date has been scheduled.
This case was investigated by HSI and IRS-Criminal Investigation together with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. Assistant United States Attorney John Klassen is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
Defendant in Los Zetas Money Laundering Case, His Son, and A Business Associate Plead Guilty to Conspiring to Bribe A Federal JudgeRead the Press Release
In Austin, 53-year-old Veracruz, Mexico businessman Francisco Colorado Cessa, his son, 25–year-old Francisco Colorado Cessa, Jr., and a business associate, 52–year-old Ramon Segura Flores face up to five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to attempting to bribe a federal judge announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Steve McCollough.
Appearing before United States Magistrate Judge Andrew Austin this morning, all three defendants pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to bribe a federal judge. By pleading guilty, the defendants admitted to conspiring last year to pay a $1.2 million bribe to a federal judge in order to secure a reduced sentence for Colorado Cessa. According to the criminal complaint filed in this case, at no time before or during this investigation was the judge involved in the alleged criminal activity. Colorado Cessa is currently serving a 20-year federal prison term for his role in a complex scheme to launder millions of dollars in illicit Los Zetas drug trafficking proceeds to purchase, train, breed, and race American quarter horses in the United States.
All three remain in federal custody at this time. No sentencing date has been scheduled.
This case was investigated by the FBI and IRS-Criminal Investigation.
Waco Family Charged in Federal Grand Jury IndictmentRead the Press Release
Three Waco family members face federal drug distribution charges announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman.
A federal grand jury indictment, returned today in Waco, charges 58–year-old Phillip Larry Koss, his wife, 60-year-old Le’Ann Koss and his son, 26-year-old Conner Phillip Koss with one count conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana and one substantive count of aiding and abetting the possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
The indictment alleges that from October 2010 until November 2013, the defendants conspired to possess over 50 kilograms of marijuana.
On November 29, 2013, authorities executed a search warrant at the Koss’ residence and discovered approximately 12 pounds of tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC, several firearms and some $27,000 in U.S. Currency. Court records allege that the defendants obtain high grade marijuana from the State of California and arrange for it to be transported to their Waco residence for distribution. Authorities have also recovered approximately 200 pounds of marijuana resulting from related search warrants executed in California as well as traffic stops during this investigation.
Upon conviction, each charge calls for up to 20 years in federal prison. The defendants, who are in custody at this time, are scheduled to have an Initial Appearance in Waco at 2:00pm on March 20, 2014, before United States Magistrate Judge Jeffrey C. Manske.
This investigation is being conducted by the McGregor Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety and the Yuba County (CA) Narcotics Enforcement Team. Assistant United States Attorney Mary F. Kucera is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Federal Grand Jury Indictment Charges San Antonio Area Businesswoman and Six Others in Connection with Estimated $1.6 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
In San Antonio, seven individuals face federal charges in connection with an estimated $1.6 million wire fraud scheme announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse.
Charged in the indictment include: 46–year-old Boerne, TX, resident Lea Ann Blystone, owner and managing partner of HipDingo stores in San Antonio, Boerne and Fredericksburg and former marketing director for a land development company, Rinco of Texas, Inc. (Rinco), and Rockin’ J Ranch (Rockin’ J); her ex-husband and Rockin’ J contractor, 49-year-old Michael J. Webb of San Antonio; 48-year-old Rockin’ J contractor Karen Lindsay of Boerne; 56-year-old Boerne resident and Rockin’ J contractor Cheryl E. Hartsfield; 47-year-old Boerne resident and Rockin’ J contractor Roy E. Pokrant, Jr.; 47-year-old Boerne resident and Rockin’ J contractor Thomas J. Worsham; and, 47–year-old Rinco employee and HipDingo co-owner Manson Porter of Boerne.
The indictment, returned on March 5, 2014, and unsealed this afternoon, charges Blystone with eight counts of wire fraud, twelve counts of forged endorsements and two counts of witness tampering. Porter is charged with three counts of wire fraud and two counts of witness tampering. Each of the remaining defendants is charged with three counts of wire fraud.
According to the indictment, from January 2009 until August 2011, Blystone, with assistance from the other defendants, devised and implemented a scheme to defraud Rinco, Rockin’ J, Security State Federal Credit Union and others to obtain money and other property by means of false and fraudulent pretenses. As marketing director for Rinco and Rockin’ J, Blystone coordinated staffing and vendor payments for promotional booths or display space at shows, malls, sporting and other events.
In the scheme, Blystone caused Rinco and Rockin’ J to make checks payable based on numerous fraudulent third-party contractor invoices submitted which greatly overstated the actual operating costs of the promotional booths. Blystone also caused Rinco and Rockin’ J to fraudulently pay defendants Webb, Lindsay, Hartsfield, Pokrant and Worsham for staffing the promotional displays. In some instances, the indictment states that Rinco and Rockin’ J paid for services when no promotion had been done at all at a stated location, or for work performed for the benefit of Blystone and Porter at HipDingo.
Blystone allegedly forged the names of payees on the back of Rinco and Rockin’ J checks and deposited the proceeds into a bank account under her control. Blystone also caused one or more of her fraudulently paid co-defendants to give her a portion of their illegally derived proceeds. The indictment further alleges that Blystone used money derived from her scheme for inventory acquisition and payroll at HipDingo.
The indictment also alleges that on two separate occasions during the investigation, Blystone and Porter tried to persuade an individual to provide false information or recant information already provided to FBI agents.
Furthermore, the indictment contains a notice for demand for asset forfeiture whereby the Government is seeking the criminally derived proceeds of the scheme, namely: four real estate properties located in Boerne; all inventory, assets, bank accounts and equipment owned, held or maintained by HipDingo, LLC., Blystone and Porter; and, four vehicles. The Government is also seeking a monetary judgment in this case in the amount of $1,597,708 representing the amount of proceeds traceable to the above mentioned scheme.
Upon conviction, each wire fraud and witness tampering charge call for up to 20 years in federal prison; each forged endorsement charge, up to ten years in federal prison.
These charges resulted from an investigation conducted by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney William R. Harris is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Leon County Businessman Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Bobby Edward Tubb, 31-year-old owner of Tubb Collision in Centerville, TX, will spend 51 months in federal prison for his involvement in the falsification and removal of vehicle identification numbers (VINs), announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw and Leon County Sheriff Kevin Ellis.
In addition to the prison term handed down late yesterday afternoon in Waco, U.S. District Judge Walter S. Smith, Jr., ordered that Tubb pay a $1,000 fine and be placed under supervised release for a period of three years after completing his prison term.
On January 9, 2014, Tubb pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting the falsification and removal of VINs. According to court documents, since 2010, Tubb directed his half-brother and employee, 24-year-old Johnathan Harvey Nicholas, to remove or alter identification numbers from vehicles at Tubb Collision.
During the investigation, authorities executed a search warrant at a storage unit in Flynn, TX, being rented by Nicholas using an alias. The unit contained a stolen vehicle, which had previously been in the possession of Tubb, as well as numerous vehicle parts from new vehicles, such as dashes, door panels and steering columns. Many of these component parts had their VIN and/or vehicle traceability numbers removed or altered. Subsequently, authorities executed several other search warrants at various locations within Leon County which resulted in the discovery of approximately six (6) stolen vehicles and various vehicle component parts.
On January 8, 2014, Judge Smith sentenced Nicholas to one year and one day in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered that he pay a $500 fine for his role in the scheme.
This case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Kucera prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.Former El Paso Law Enforcement Officer Sentenced to Two Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
In El Paso today, 32-year-old former El Paso Police officer and El Paso County Constable Billy Jack Barrow was sentenced to two years in federal prison on a drug conspiracy charge announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Douglas E. Lindquist.
In addition to the prison term, Senior U.S. District Judge David Briones ordered that Barrow pay a $500 fine and be placed under supervised release for a period of two years after completing his prison term. Judge Briones also ordered that Barrow surrender to federal authorities on or before May 9, 2014, to begin serving his prison term.
On October 31, 2013, Barrow pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. By pleading guilty, Barrow admitted to tipping off co-conspirators about bar checks and other law enforcement operations while serving as an El Paso County Constable from January 2010 through September 2012.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration together with the El Paso Police Department and the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney John Gibson prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
El Paso Sex Offender Sentenced to Federal Prison for Failure to RegisterRead the Press Release
In El Paso today, 41-year-old Christopher Morris was sentenced to 71 months in federal prison followed by 20 years of supervised release for failure to register as a sex offender announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and United States Marshal Robert Almonte.
According to court records, Morris was convicted of Sexual Assault in the Second Degree in Arkansas in 2004. As a result, he was sentenced to serve twenty years incarceration with all but five years suspended. In May 2009, Morris relocated to El Paso, but failed to register with the El Paso Police Department or El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
On December 9, 2013, Morris pleaded guilty to one count of failure to register as a sex offender. In August 2010, Morris was arrested based on a state aggravated sexual assault charge. He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to 30 years incarceration for that offense. Today, U.S. District Judge Philip R. Martinez ordered that five years of Morris’ federal sentence run consecutive to his 30-year state sentence.
This investigation was conducted by the United States Marshals Service together with the El Paso Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Kerry Blackburn and Robert Almonte, II, prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Eagle Pass Businessman Sentenced to Federal Prison in Connection with Maverick County Bribery, Kickback and Bid-Rigging SchemeRead the Press Release
In Del Rio this afternoon, 35-year-old Hipolito Amaya, owner of AM-ROD Construction based in Eagle Pass, was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison for his role in connection with an alleged bribery, kickback and bid-rigging scheme in Maverick County announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse.
In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Alia Moses ordered that Amaya pay $35,800 restitution to Maverick County. Judge Moses also ordered that Amaya be placed under supervised release for a period of three years and must complete 500 hours of community service after completing his prison term.
In October, Amaya pleaded guilty to a bribery charge. By pleading guilty, Amaya admitted that in May 2011, he submitted a $35,800 bid to Maverick County to construct a concrete sidewalk on Lago Vista in Precinct 4 of Maverick County. Maverick County issued him a $17,900 check to commence work and then a $17,900 check for the completion of the sidewalk. Amaya further admitted that he made cash payments to two Maverick County employees so that he could be paid in full for work he never performed.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Individuals who have first-hand information about corruption, fraud, or bribery related to Maverick County are urged to contact the FBI at (210) 225-6741. Assistant United States Attorney Michael Galdo prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Russell Allen Erxleben Sentenced to 90 Months in Federal Prison for $2 Million Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
In Austin this morning, 57–year-old Russell Allen Erxleben of Dripping Springs, TX, was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution for implementing a Ponzi scheme involving an estimated $2 million announced the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas.
In December, Erxleben pleaded guilty to federal wire fraud and money laundering charges. According to court records, from 2005 until October 2009, Erxleben devised and implemented a scheme to defraud and to obtain money from investors by the use of fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises. Erxleben used several companies, including WALTEC Consultants, LRE Holdings, and The MDM Group, to promote investments in fraudulent ventures including investments in post-WWI German government gold bearer bonds and in a work of art purportedly by Paul Gauguin, a famous late 19th-early 20th century artist. By pleading guilty, Erxleben admitted that he used investment proceeds for the benefit of himself and his family, to pay purported dividends to previous investors, and to fund other undisclosed endeavors, contrary to promises and representations made by the defendant. In furtherance of the fraudulent scheme, Erxleben made various wire transfers using numerous financial accounts which were opened and maintained by others in an effort to avoid detection by authorities.
This investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Texas State Securities Board along with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Devlin and Alan Buie prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Federal Prison Sentences Handed Down to San Antonio Businessmen for Roles in $133 Million Real Dollar Loss Fraud and Tax SchemeRead the Press Release
In San Antonio today, United States Chief District Judge Fred Biery handed down prison sentences to three individuals for their roles in what is believed to be the largest real dollar loss fraud and tax related case ever prosecuted in the Western District of Texas announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse and IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Steve McCollough.
John Bean, owner of Synergy Personnel, a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) based in San Antonio, as well as an agent, representative, officer, license holder and accountant of several San Antonio and Austin based PEOs, including Service Professionals, was sentenced to six years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay over $120 million in restitution after pleading guilty to a money laundering charge and a mail fraud conspiracy charge in March 2013.
Pat Mire, owner and manager of several San Antonio-based PEOs, including Service Professionals, was sentenced to three years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $10 million in restitution after pleading guilty to a money laundering charge and a mail fraud conspiracy charge in November 2011.
Mike Solis, an executive assistant at several San Antonio based PEOs, including Service Professionals, was sentenced to two years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to a mail fraud conspiracy charge in December 2012.
A fourth defendant, John D. Walker, II, owner and manager of several San Antonio-based PEOs, including AK of Nevada, Inc., United Focus, Inc. and Safe Staff, Inc., was sentenced to five years probation and ordered to pay $450,000 restitution after pleading guilty to a Klein tax fraud conspiracy charge and a false statements charge in May 2012.
“This was a multi-faceted fraud scheme that victimized companies who relied on the defendants for payroll services, honest workers who relied on insurance coverage, and the taxpayers. At heart, the defendants were clever bandits who covered their tracks with layers of shell corporations and bank accounts, and siphoned off monies for their own luxury. The hard work of the investigators and the prosecutor untangled their devious scheme and brought the defendants to justice,” stated United States Attorney Robert Pitman.
Today’s sentencing hearings for Larry Kimes, the manager of AccounTex Financial Services, LLC, and Charles Pircher, manager of a series of PEOs based in San Antonio, including Service Professionals, were continued. This morning, Judge Biery revoked Kimes’ bond and remanded him into federal custody. Kimes, who pleaded guilty to a Klein tax fraud conspiracy charge and a mail fraud conspiracy charge last month, will be sentenced in approximately 30 days. Pircher, who pleaded guilty to the same two charges in November 2013, will be sentenced in approximately 60 days.
By pleading guilty, the defendants admitted that between 2002 and 2008, they participated in a scheme in which they stole more than $133 Million from the clients of a series of PEOs operated by the defendants. The PEOs entered into staff leasing agreements with various client companies to manage the companies’ payroll and insurance programs. Kimes, Pircher and the other co-conspirators diverted to their own use and benefit clients’ monies that should have been paid for payroll taxes and insurance premiums.
“Motivated by greed, the defendant perpetrated an extensive fraud scheme, designed to steal money from their clients and taxpayers over a number of years. The FBI will continue to work with our partners to identify, investigate and prosecute others, like the defendant, who seek unjust enrichment by victimizing others,” stated Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse.
“The defendants involved in this, the largest ever single criminal tax case in San Antonio's history, knowingly violated our country's Tax laws. They chose to ignore their responsibilities and live a lavish lifestyle on money belonging to their employees and to the U.S. Government. IRS Special Agents will continue to aggressively pursue these types of very serious tax crimes,” stated IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Steve McCollough.
This case was investigated by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Thomas J. McHugh prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.
Federal Jury in San Antonio Convicts Los Zetas Associate in Drug Distribution and Kidnapping SchemeRead the Press Release
Los Zetas associate and Eagle Pass, TX, resident Jose Luis Rodriguez (a.k.a. “Pollo”), age 36, faces up to life in federal prison after a jury in San Antonio convicted him this afternoon of federal kidnapping and drug charges announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman, Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse, San Antonio Division, and Acting Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Steven S. Whipple, Houston Division.
The jury convicted Rodriguez of one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, three substantive counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and one count of conspiracy to kidnap. Evidence presented during trial revealed that from September 2006 until April 2007, Rodriguez and others conspired to distribute more than 1,600 kilograms of cocaine from Mexico through Eagle Pass and transported it to San Antonio then ultimately to Cleveland, OH; Memphis, TN; Saginaw, MI; and, New York, NY. During the course of the investigation, authorities seized a total of approximately 113 kilograms of cocaine and in excess of $2 million in drug proceeds attributed to Rodriguez and his co-conspirators.
Evidence also revealed that Rodriguez and others conspired in early 2007 to unlawfully kidnap an Eagle Pass resident and hold him hostage in Piedras Negras, Mexico, for the purpose of collecting money and property in order to satisfy an illegal drug debt owed by the Eagle Pass resident.
Rodriguez, who was arrested in Mexico on a provisional arrest warrant and extradited to the U.S. last year, remains in federal custody. Sentencing is scheduled for May 21, 2014, before United States District Judge Royce C. Lamberth.
This case was investigated by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration.El Paso Man Arrested and Charged in Alleged Laser Strike IncidentRead the Press Release
In El Paso today, FBI agents arrested 28–year-old Don Ray Dorsett for allegedly pointing a laser at an aircraft flying overhead announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and FBI Special Agent in Charge Douglas E. Lindquist, El Paso Division.
In February 2012, President Barrack Obama signed the “FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012” and added a new provision that makes it a federal crime to aim a laser pointer at an aircraft. This week, the federal grand jury in El Paso returned a one-count indictment charging Dorsett with violating that provision (Title 18 United States Code Section 39A—Aiming a Laser Pointer at an Aircraft). The indictment alleges that on January 4, 2014, Dorsett knowingly aimed the beam of a laser pointer at a helicopter flying overhead. The aircraft belonged to the Texas Department of Public Safety.
“Although no one was injured during this incident, laser strikes can pose serious risks to flight crews, passengers, and even individuals on the ground. Laser strikes are a serious public safety hazard and will be treated as such by law enforcement officials,” stated United States Attorney Robert Pitman.
Upon conviction, the defendant faces up to five years in federal prison and a maximum $250,000 fine.
“Today’s arrest of Don Dorsett is a prime example of the cooperative and collaborative relationship between the FBI and our local partners. The FBI, in tandem with the Texas Department of Public Safety and our other local law enforcement partners, take aircraft safety seriously. The FBI will continue to vigorously investigate and seek prosecution for those engaged in laser strikes on aircrafts and other criminal activity involving aircrafts and innocent bystanders,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge Douglas E. Lindquist, El Paso Division.
This indictment resulted from an investigation conducted by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation together with the Texas Department of Public Safety and the El Paso Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Stanley Serwatka is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
An indictment is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Reported incidents of laser strikes are on the rise. Since the FBI and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) began tracking laser strikes in 2005, statistics reflect a more than 1,100% increase in the deliberate targeting of aircraft by people with handheld lasers. In 2013, there were a total of 3,960 laser strikes reported – an average of almost 11 incidents per day.
Earlier this month, the FBI announced the inception of the Laser Threat Awareness Campaign, a nationwide effort led by the FBI in collaboration with the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) and the FAA to raise awareness of aircraft laser illumination threats. If you have information about a lasing incident, contact the El Paso FBI at 915-832-5000. If you see someone pointing a laser at an aircraft, call the nearest local law enforcement agency immediately by dialing 911. Tips can also be submitted online at https://tips.fbi.gov.
San Antonio Bank Robber Sentenced to 70 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
This morning, 27-year-old Larry Elmoe Drummer of San Antonio was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison and ordered to pay $8,581 for robbing the Chase Bank located in the Park North shopping center on February 1, 2013, announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse, San Antonio Division.
On November 13, 2013, Drummer pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery for the above mentioned incident. At the time of his guilty plea, Drummer agreed to pay restitution for his role in three additional bank robberies, namely: $4,296 for the robbery of Frost Bank in the 10000 block of Wurzbach Road on December 19, 2012; $1,000 for the robbery of Security Service Bank in the Park North shopping center on January 23, 2013; and, $11,000 for an earlier robbery of Chase Bank in the Park North shopping center on January 2, 2013. The total restitution ordered in this case to be paid by the defendant amounts to $24,887.
This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation together with the San Antonio Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Lathrop prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.