Western District of Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Inmate at USP Lee Sentenced for Assault, Possessing a Weapon in PrisonRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – An inmate at USP Lee in Jonesville, Virginia was sentenced last week to 72 months for assaulting another inmate and for unlawfully possessing a weapon inside the prison.
According to court documents, Murray Plentywoods, 34, possessed a weapon inside the prison and committed an assault on May 11, 2020.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine M. Hummert prosecuted the case for the United States.
Bristol Man Sentenced on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Bristol, Virginia man was sentenced last week to 21 and a-half years in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, Paul D. Crone, 56, conspired with others to traffic approximately 45 kilograms of methamphetamine from Atlanta, Georgia and Houston, Texas into Southwest Virginia for redistribution.
Crone pleaded guilty in May 2021 to one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, one count of possessing with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and one count of conspiring to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Fifteen co-conspirators were also charged in the conspiracy.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia, Jared Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division, and Special Agent in Charge Charlie J. Patterson for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Murphy prosecuted the case.
Buchanan County Man Sentenced on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va.– A Whitewood, Virginia man was sentenced today to 84 months in prison for distributing child pornography using a means or facility of interstate commerce.
According to court documents, Jordan Seth Gross, 21, distributed child pornography to an undercover employee with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in November 2020. Gross admitted to using the KIK computer messenger application to communicate with others in a known child pornography chatroom. Gross accessed his KIK account from both his home in Whitewood, in Buchanan County, Virginia, and his place of employment at Buchanan General Hospital in Grundy, Virginia. Using that account, Gross distributed multiple videos of prepubescent females under the age of twelve engaged in sexually explicit conduct to an FBI employee working undercover in the chatroom. Gross also admitted purchasing child pornography materials using PayPal.
Gross pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of knowingly distributing one or more visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct that has been mailed or transported in interstate or foreign commerce.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia and Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division announced the sentence today.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Virginia State Police are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lena Busscher is prosecuted the case.
Big Stone Gap Man Pleads Guilty to Unemployment Fraud, Mail FraudRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va.– A Big Stone Gap, Virginia man pleaded guilty last week to participating in a conspiracy that defrauded the government of more than $790,000 in pandemic-related unemployment funds and conspiring to commit mail fraud.
According to court documents, Johnny Hobbs, 37, joined convicted co-defendant Farren Ricketts, and others, in a scheme to file fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits via the Virginia Employment Commission [VEC] website. Conspirators submitted claims for various individuals who were known to be ineligible to receive pandemic unemployment benefits by making materially false representations.
Hobbs joined the scheme in May 2020, while incarcerated, initially seeking to receive unemployment benefits for himself. After he was released from jail, Hobbs approached Ricketts, and the other co-conspirators and accepted a limited role with their criminal enterprise submitting claims to the VEC and recertifying weekly claims for other co-conspirators.
Hobbs pleaded guilty last week to one count of conspiracy to defraud the government of the United States and one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on December 10, 2021 and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia, Darrell J. Waldon, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI Washington DC Field Office, and Syreeta Scott, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General announced the guilty plea.
The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Murphy is prosecuting the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Martinsville Man Sentenced on Child Pornography Charges, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
DANVILLE, Va. – A Martinsville, Virginia man was sentenced last month to 140 months in prison for possessing child pornography and possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of a felony.
According to court documents, Terrance Antwain Penn, 38, came to the attention of law enforcement in December 2019 after a minor female reported having sexual contact with him on several occasions. The minor told police Penn used a phone to record this sexual activity and provided descriptions of two cell phones Penn possessed.
On December 7, 2019, authorities initiated a traffic stop on a car being driven by Penn. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed two cell phones matching the descriptions given by the minor, as well as a loaded Taurus, model G2C, 9mm semi-automatic pistol in the center counsel.
Investigators obtained search warrants for Penn’s phones, which contained videos of the defendant having sexual contact with the minor female.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia and Special Agent in Charge Charlie J. Patterson for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
The investigation of the case was conducted by ATF, with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations and the Martinsville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin B. Johnson prosecuted the case for the United States.
Former EDA Director Indicted on Federal Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va.– A federal grand jury in Charlottesville returned an indictment last week charging the former executive director of the Economic Development Authority of the Town of Front Royal and the County of Warren, Virginia [EDA] with wire fraud, bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering.
According to an indictment returned under seal last Wednesday and unsealed today, Jennifer Rae McDonald, 44, of Front Royal, Virginia, was the executive director of the EDA from April 2008 until December 2018. From June 3, 2014 to on or about December 20, 2018, McDonald devised and participated in a scheme to defraud the EDA to obtain money and property by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises.
McDonald, through her position as executive director at the EDA, had access to funds belonging to the EDA and, as the indictment alleges, used EDA funds to pay on debt owed by her, other individuals, and LLCs she controlled, to purchase real property for which she often earned commissions as a real estate agent, and to purchase real property in the name of an LLC she controlled.
McDonald is charged with 16 counts of money laundering, 10 counts of bank fraud, seven counts of wire fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft. The defendant made her initial court appearance today and was released pending trial.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia and Special Agent in Charge Stanley M. Meador of the FBI’s Richmond Division made the announcement.
The FBI and Virginia State Police are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Welsh is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Buchanan Woman Sentenced for Credit Card FraudRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va.– A Buchanan, Virginia woman was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison after pleading guilty in February to multiple credit card fraud charges.
According to court documents, in three separate instances, Patricia Moseley, 61, using credit card accounts opened by three individuals, CS, RC, and PJ, obtained merchandise from Best Buy on Valley View Boulevard in Roanoke, Virginia.
Moseley pleaded guilty in February 2021 to three counts of access device fraud.
Specifically, on June 30, 2016, Moseley obtained $1,368 in merchandise from Best Buy on Valley View Boulevard in Roanoke, Virginia using the credit card account of PJ without their knowledge or consent.
On July 6, 2016, Moseley obtained $2,737 in merchandise using the credit card account of CS, without their permission or knowledge.
Moseley admitted to using the credit card accounts of CS, RC, and PJ to obtain a total of $5,475 in merchandise without the permission or knowledge of the card holders.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the United States Secret Service, and the Virginia State Police.
Assistant United States Attorney Charlene R. Day is prosecuting the case for the United States.
Five Plead Guilty to Pandemic Unemployment Fraud, Mail Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va.– Five Southwest Virginia residents who conspired with more than 30 others to defraud the United States government by filing fraudulent claims for more than $499,000 in pandemic unemployment benefits, mail fraud and associated offenses pleaded guilty this week and last in U.S. District Court in Abingdon.
According to court documents, Patrick Payne, 43, Randall Johnson, 42, Steven Mullins Jr., 33, Curtis Mullins, 25 and Melinda Davis, 58, conspired with others to file claims for pandemic unemployment benefits through the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) website. The scheme involved submitting claims for various individuals who were not eligible to receive pandemic unemployment benefits, including for numerous inmates incarcerated in southwest Virginia regional jails. To date, 19 of the co-conspirators have pleaded guilty to their roles in the broader conspiracy.
Conspiracy members lied on the filings as part of the scheme to make filers appear eligible for benefits. Because pandemic unemployment benefits were paid weekly, each of those filings re-verified and re-certified the false statements on numerous occasions throughout the scheme.
In all, the conspiracy filed fraudulent claims for approximately 37 individuals, causing at least $499,000 in false claims to be have been paid. In addition to those indicted, eight co-conspirators have already entered into plea agreements with the United States.
“These five individuals used a carefully orchestrated series of lies to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars intended for Virginians struggling during a once-in-a-generation global health pandemic,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar said today. “The Department of Justice is grateful to the Internal Revenue Service, Department of Labor and the Virginia Employment Commission for their hard work and commitment to investigating these cases and bringing these individuals to justice.”
“Investigating those who fraudulently take funds from pandemic relief programs will continue to be a focus of IRS-CI. These programs were put into place to assist those struggling through the global crisis, not to be used for personal enrichment,” said Darrell J. Waldon, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI Washington DC Field Office.
“Patrick Payne, Randall Johnson, Steven Mullins Jr., Curtis Mullins and Melinda Davis, conspired with others to defraud the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program by filing for and receiving benefits that they and others were not entitled to receive. The United States Department of Labor Office of Inspector General is grateful for our partnerships with the Virginia Employment Commission and our many law enforcement partners. We also want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their continued efforts to prosecute those who violate public benefit programs and commit fraud,” stated Syreeta Scott, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
Each of the individuals pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and conspiracy to commit mail fraud. Each faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, along with State and local partners including the Norton Police Department and Russell County Sheriff’s Office, are investigating the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. Murphy prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form .
Richlands Man Sentenced to 57 Months for Possessing Sawed-off ShotgunRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Richlands, Va., man, who was previously convicted of several felonies making him ineligible to possess a firearm, was sentenced last week to 57 months in federal prison for possessing a sawed-off shotgun.
According to court documents, Terry Mitchell, 42, and two women were pulled over in Bluefield, Virginia on July 23, 2020 at 3:30 a.m. The vehicle had several lights out. Mitchell was in the rear passenger seat. It was determined the driver had a suspended driver’s license and officers observed a controlled substance in the car.
All three occupants were asked to step out of the vehicle to be impounded. While conducting an inventory of the vehicle before it was towed, officers discovered a sawed-off, short barrel shotgun with a 12-gauge shotgun shell loaded in the chamber. The shotgun was hidden under a blanket on the floorboard of the vehicle. Officers also discovered a bag filled with numerous syringes, smoking devices, scales, empty baggies, and a small amount of methamphetamine.
Mitchell pleaded guilty in May 2021 to one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Bluefield Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Murphy is prosecuted the case.
Marion Man Sentenced for Burning Cross on Front Yard of African American Family in June 2020Read the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va.– A Marion man, who burned a cross on the front yard of an African American family in June 2020 following a civil rights protest earlier in the day, was sentenced today to 18 months in federal prison.
James Brown, 41, pleaded guilty in April to criminal interference with federally protected housing rights based upon the victim’s race.
“When Brown burned a cross in the victim’s front yard, he carried out a despicable act of intimidation, interfered with a federally protected housing right, and broke a serious federal law,” Acting U.S. Attorney Bubar stated today. “Today’s sentence demonstrates that such threatening acts of hatred will be swiftly investigated and prosecuted. We thank the FBI and state partners for their hard work on this important case.”
“We have zero tolerance in our communities for those individuals violating anyone's civil rights. Investigating allegations of civil rights violations continues to be a top priority for the FBI; and through our community liaison and law enforcement partnerships we will continue to investigate and mitigate the unwanted and unwarranted behavior of racially motivated individuals,” Special Agent in Charge Stanley M. Meador said today. “FBI Richmond encourages anyone who may have knowledge or is a victim of a hate crime, to report it to law enforcement.”
According to court documents, Brown burned a cross on the front yard of an African American family in the early morning hours of June 14, 2020. One of the family members had organized a civil rights protest the day before in Marion, Virginia. Brown admitted to burning the cross to two witnesses and also was known to use racial epithets when referring to the African American family. At his guilty plea hearing, Brown admitted that he had burned the cross in order to threaten and intimidate the African American family.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Marion Police Department, and the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Zachary T. Lee and Daniel Murphy are prosecuting the case.
Dutch National Affiliated with ‘Bugaloo Bois’ Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va.– A Dutch national and member of the Bugaloo Bois, was sentenced today to time served, which included five and a half months in prison, for illegally possessing a firearm while being unlawfully present in the United States.
According to court documents, Jaap Willem Lijbers, 27, was living in the United States on an I-94 Visa that expired on May 20, 2014. A review of immigration records showed that Lijbers never applied for adjustment or readmission. Lijbers pleaded guilty in April to one count of possessing a firearm while being unlawfully present in the United States.
Lijbers, who was residing in Raven, Va., frequently coordinated and communicated online with members of the Bugaloo Bois, a loosely connected group of individuals espousing violent anti-government sentiment. During some of these interactions, court documents allege that Lijbers encouraged other members of the Bugaloo Bois group to attend political rallies and commit acts of violence, to include taking over government buildings. Lijbers also encouraged others to participate in violent conduct against law enforcement officers in a “pig roast.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia and Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division, made the announcement today.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Assistant United States Attorneys Christopher Kavanaugh and Randy Ramseyer prosecuted the case for the United States.
Norton Man Sentenced in $499,000 Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Norton, Virginia man was sentenced today to 27 months in prison for conspiring with others to defraud the government of more than $499,000 and to commit mail fraud.
According to court documents, Jeremy Short, 26, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to defraud the United States and one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud with respect to benefits authorized and paid in connection with a presidentially declared major disaster or emergency.
Short participated in a conspiracy to commit fraud against the United States in connection with a scheme involving the filing of fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits.
According to court documents, Short, and others, conspired to collect personal identification information of more than 35 co-conspirators, including 15 inmates in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections, and to file fraudulent claims of pandemic-related unemployment benefits.
Over the course of nine months, the conspiracy filed fraudulent claims for at least 37 individuals, with a total actual loss to the United States of at least $499,000.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia, Darrell J. Waldon, IRS-CI Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Washington DC Field Office, and Syreeta Scott, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Philadelphia Region, U. S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General announced the sentence today.
The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Norton Police Department, and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. Murphy prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form .
Postal Employee Sentenced for Stealing Medication Intended for VeteransRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A former employee of the United States Postal Service was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison for stealing mail containing medication intended for United States Veterans.
Ammie Hale, 46, of Raysal, West Virginia, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to three counts of theft by mail by an employee of the postal service for stealing mail on February 26, 2020, July 1, 2020, and August 5, 2020, and one count of making false statements.
According to court documents, from September 2019 through July 2020, the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General (USPS-OIG) received over 40 reports from the Salem, Virginia Veterans Affairs Medical Center of medication parcels mailed to veterans in the Tazewell, Virginia area that were never delivered.
Agents of the USPS-OIG reviewed available video footage and observed Hale on two different occasions, while working at the Tazwell Post Office, removing parcels from the sorting area, and taking them to an area of the Post Office where employees keep personal belongings and hiding the parcels in her purse. On August 5, 2020, agents conducted on-site surveillance and caught Hale stealing pills from a package addressed from the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Hale was interviewed on August 5 and falsely told investigators that she had never stolen mail prior to that day.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia and Kenneth Cleevely, Special Agent in Charge, United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General Eastern Area Field Office made the announcement.
The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Ramseyer prosecuted the case.
Bristol, Tennessee Man Sentenced in $499,000 Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Bristol, Tennessee man was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for conspiring with others to defraud the government of more than $499,000 and to commit mail fraud.
According to court documents, Jared Mitchell, 31, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to defraud the United States and one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud with respect to benefits authorized and paid in connection with a presidentially declared major disaster or emergency.
Mitchell participated in a conspiracy to commit fraud against the United States in connection with a scheme involving the filing of fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits.
According to court documents, Mitchell, and others, conspired to collect personal identification information of more than 35 co-conspirators, including 15 inmates in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections, and to file fraudulent claims of pandemic-related unemployment benefits.
Over the course of nine months, the conspiracy filed fraudulent claims for at least 37 individuals, with a total actual loss to the United States of at least $499,000.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia, Darrell J. Waldon, IRS-CI Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Washington DC Field Office, and Syreeta Scott, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Philadelphia Region, U. S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General announced the sentence today.
The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Norton Police Department, and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. Murphy prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Southwest Virginia Man Sentenced in $499,000 Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Southwest Virginia man was sentenced yesterday to 30 months in prison for conspiring with others to defraud the government of more than $499,000 and to commit mail fraud.
According to court documents, Eric Mullins, 29, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of conspiring to defraud the United States and one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud with respect to benefits authorized and paid in connection with a presidentially declared major disaster or emergency.
Mullins participated in a conspiracy to commit fraud against the United States in connection with a scheme involving the filing of fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits.
According to court documents, Mullins, and others, conspired to collect personal identification information of more than 35 co-conspirators, including 15 inmates in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections, and to file fraudulent claims of pandemic-related unemployment benefits.
Over the course of nine months, the conspiracy filed fraudulent claims for at least 37 individuals, with a total actual loss to the United States of at least $499,000.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia, Darrell J. Waldon, IRS-CI Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Washington DC Field Office, and Syreeta Scott, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Philadelphia Region, U. S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General announced the sentence today.
The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Norton Police Department, and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. Murphy prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Bristol, Tennessee Man Sentenced in $499,000 Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Bristol, Tennessee man was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for conspiring with others to defraud the government of more than $499,000 and to commit mail fraud.
According to court documents, Larry D. Whited, 57, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of conspiring to defraud the United States and one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud with respect to benefits authorized and paid in connection with a presidentially declared major disaster or emergency.
Whited participated in a conspiracy to commit fraud against the United States in connection with a scheme involving the filing of fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits.
According to court documents, Whited, and others, conspired to collect personal identification information of more than 35 co-conspirators, including 15 inmates in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections, and to file fraudulent claims of pandemic-related unemployment benefits.
Over the course of nine months, the conspiracy filed fraudulent claims for at least 37 individuals, with a total actual loss to the United States of at least $499,000.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia, Darrell J. Waldon, IRS-CI Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Washington DC Field Office, and Syreeta Scott, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Philadelphia Region, U. S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General announced the sentence today.
The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Norton Police Department, and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. Murphy prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Inmate at USP Lee Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing WeaponRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va., – Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar announced today that Michael Duncan, an inmate at the USP Lee in Jonesville, Virginia, pleaded guilty to unlawfully possessing a weapon inside the prison. Duncan pleaded guilty to one count of possessing contraband in a United States prison, that contraband being a weapon.
According to court documents and evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing by Special Assistant United States Attorney Christine Hummert, Duncan, 29, was subjected to a search by prison officials, and two weapons were found inside of his left front shorts pocket. One weapon was approximately 6.5 inches in length and the other was approximately 7.5 inches in length. Both weapons were made of metal, sharpened at one end, with a handle made of white fabric on the other end.
Duncan faces up to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000, and will be sentenced on November 30, 2021.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the United States Bureau of Prisons. Special Assistant United States Attorney Christine Hummert is prosecuting the case for the United States.Charlottesville Dermatologist Sentenced for Diverting Pain MedicationRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., – A dermatologist formerly employed at a dermatological practice in the City of Charlottesville was sentenced last week to 12 months’ probation, including a period of home confinement and electronic monitoring, for using the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration number of her co-workers to obtain prescription opioid pain medication.
Dr. Amalie Shaffner Derdeyn, 48, of Charlottesville, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to three counts of using the DEA registration numbers of another person to obtain one or more controlled substances.
According to court documents, between July 2015 and November 2016, Derdeyn diverted large quantities of injectable meperidine, a Schedule II pain medication, known by the brand name Demerol. She did so by using her own DEA registration number, as well as the DEA registration numbers of other physicians in the practice, without their knowledge or consent, to obtain the drugs from local pharmacies. As part of her plea agreement with the United States, Derdeyn agreed to pay $33,000 in restitution to victims no later than the date of her sentencing hearing, and to pay all remaining restitution before her period of probation ends. According to government filings, the restitution owed to victims may be as much as $45,000.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of North Carolina; and Jared Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Washington Division made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case, with assistance from the Virginia State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kari Munro and Michael Baudinet prosecuted the case for the United States.
North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Suboxone, Oxycodone, other Pain MedicationsRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Dobson, North Carolina man pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiring to distribute medically illegitimate prescriptions for Schedule II opioids and Suboxone, as well as conspiring to use, in the course of the distribution of controlled substances, the DEA registration number of another person.
According to court documents, Charles Wilson Adams Jr., 50, worked for “Company L” that operated medical clinics in the Western District of Virginia, including in the Galax, Lynchburg, and Christiansburg areas. The clinic focused on pain management and opioid addiction treatment.
Adams worked as a counselor for Company L, though he had not applied to the Virginia Board of Counseling to become a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. Adams was referred to inside Company L as “Dr.” but has never been a medical practitioner or possessed authority to prescribe controlled substances.
Adams admitted that he and other non-medical professionals exerted influence or control over medical decisions and treatment of patients, including the prescribing of Schedule II pain medications and Suboxone, a Schedule III drug used to treat opioid addiction.
As part of his plea, Adams also acknowledged Company L employees pre-signed blank prescriptions for distribution to patients without office visits. Further, at the direction of Company L’s owner and others, employees used DEA registration numbers of medical providers to prescribe Suboxone to patients, even when those providers were in other cities or states and did not see the patients. Adams was aware of Company L’s practices and their illegitimacy yet took part in them anyway.
“Adams chose to use his position to assist in the illegal distribution of powerful opioids rather than their use for legitimate medical purposes, thus causing additional harm to the community,” Acting United States Attorney Bubar stated today. “We are grateful for the extensive investigation conducted by federal, state and local law enforcement located in three states, whose hard work is holding the defendant accountable for his crimes.”
“This individual put the health of patients and his community in jeopardy by participating in the prescribing of dangerous drugs and other medical treatments indiscriminately when he was not qualified to do so,” said Attorney General Herring. “The opioid crisis continues to devastate communities and families across Virginia, and we will not tolerate healthcare providers who do not handle or prescribe highly addictive drugs appropriately and safely. I want to thank our local, state, and federal partners for their help on this important case as well as my award-winning Medicaid Control Fraud Unit for their continued hard work and dedication.”
“Prescription drugs are to be prescribed for legitimate medical reasons by appropriately licensed medical professionals,” said Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon of the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services. “HHS-OIG will continue to work with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe from illegal prescription drugs.”
“Our investigation into Adams’ illegal distribution of highly addictive pain medication at the height of an overdose epidemic, emphasizes his criminal indifference for human life,” said Jared Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Washington Field Office. “Today’s guilty plea emphasizes our commitment to the tireless work of investigating and prosecuting those responsible for fueling opioid addiction and deadly overdoses in our area – saving lives in our communities.”
Adams pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to use, in the course of the distribution of controlled substances, the DEA registration number of another, one count of conspiring to distribute Suboxone, and one count of conspiring to distribute oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, methadone, and fentanyl. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 29, 2021. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, including offices in southwest Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, Virginia Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and the Department of Health and Human Service are investigating the case, with the assistance of the Carroll County (Va.) Sheriff’s Office, Mt. Pleasant (S.C.) Police Department, Christiansburg (Va.) Police Department, Mt. Airy (N.C.) Police Department, Amherst County (Va.) Sheriff's Office, and the U.S. Attorney Offices of the Middle District of North Carolina and District of South Carolina.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. Cagle Juhan, Janine Myatt, and Randy Ramseyer are prosecuting the case, with assistance from Trial Attorney Andrew Barras, ARPO North, Criminal Division, Fraud Section.
Southwest Virginia Man Sentenced to 108 Months for Role in Pandemic Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Pound, Virginia man, who conspired with others to fraudulently file more than $499,000 in pandemic unemployment benefits, was sentenced today to 108 months in federal prison.
Gregory Marcus Tackett, 28, pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of conspiracy to defraud the government, one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft, and one count of obstructing justice.
“During a time of national hardship brought on by the pandemic, the defendant conspired with others to defraud the government of funds intended to help Virginians that were truly in need,” Acting United States Attorney Bubar said today. “Today’s significant prison sentence demonstrates that such serious federal crime will not be tolerated. I am grateful for the determined efforts of the Department of Labor, IRS-CI, Norton Police Department and Russell County Sheriff’s Office for their hard work on this case.”
“Gregory Tackett conspired with others to commit fraud against the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program by filing for and receiving benefits that he and others were not entitled to receive. The U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General will continue to work closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Virginia Employment Commission, and our many law enforcement partners to safeguard the integrity of all unemployment assistance programs,” stated Syreeta Scott, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
“Tackett discovered how costly stealing pandemic unemployment benefits truly is today. We will continue to work with our investigative partners to hold accountable those who rob programs aimed at helping individuals struggling through this global crisis,” said Darrell J. Waldon, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Washington D.C. Field Office
According to court documents, Tackett admitted to conspiring with others, including his girlfriend, LeeLynn Danielle Chykta, to commit fraud against the United States in connection with a scheme involving the filing of fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits.
Tackett, Chytka, and others, conspired to collect personal identification information of more than 35 co-conspirators, including 15 inmates in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections, and to file fraudulent claims of pandemic-related unemployment benefits.
Over the course of nine months, Tackett and Chytka filed fraudulent claims for at least 37 individuals, with a total actual loss to the United States of at least $499,000.
The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Norton Police Department, and Russell County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. Murphy prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form .
Bristol, Tennessee Woman Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for Role in Pandemic Unemployment SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Bristol, Tenn. woman, who conspired with others to fraudulently file more than $499,000 in in pandemic unemployment benefits, was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison.
Melissa Hayes, 51, pleaded guilty earlier this year to one count of conspiracy to commit unemployment fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud.
According to court documents, Hayes conspired with others to commit fraud against the United States in connection with a scheme involving the filing of fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits.
Members of the conspiracy, including Hayes, worked together to collect personal identification information of more than 35 co-conspirators, including 15 inmates in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections, and to file fraudulent claims of pandemic-related unemployment benefits.
Over the course of nine months, Hayes, and others, filed fraudulent claims for at least 37 individuals, with a total actual loss to the United States of at least $499,000.
The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Norton Police Department, and Russell County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia, Acting Special Agent in Charge Darrell J. Waldon, IRS-CI Washington D.C. Field Office and, Syreeta Scott, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Philadelphia Region made the announcement today.
Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. Murphy prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form .
Richlands Man Sentenced to Prison Time for Possessing and Manufacturing an Unregistered Explosives DeviceRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va.- Cole Carini, a Richlands, Virginia man who appeared at a hospital in June 2020 with severe injuries to his hands and fingers, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Abingdon to 84 months in federal prison.
Carini, 24, pleaded guilty in January to one count of possessing and manufacturing an unregistered explosive device.
“When he stockpiled bomb-making materials and actually designed and manufactured an improvised explosive device designed to cause significant harm, the defendant put the safety of the community at risk and committed a serious federal crime,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar said today. “Today’s sentence ought to send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. We appreciate the great work of our federal and state partners that brought Carini to justice.”
“Mr. Carini suffered serious injuries when explosive devices he possessed detonated in a residential area. The danger of such devices and potential for additional explosions and casualties could have been more devasting if responding law enforcement personnel were not able to properly dispose of the devices and chemicals,” Special Agent in Charge Stanley M. Meador said today. “Through our partnership, the residential area was made safe again; and Mr. Carini was held accountable for his illegal activity.”
According to court documents, on June 3, 2020, Carini went to a hospital in Richlands suffering from extensive injuries to his hands, and shrapnel wounds to his neck and throat. After being interviewed at the hospital by authorities, Carini reported that his injuries were caused by a lawn mower accident at his home.
During a search of Carini’s home, agents found the lawn was overgrown and found no other evidence indicating a lawn mower had recently been used. They did, however, find evidence of an explosion in Carini’s bedroom that was more consistent with the types of injuries Carini had suffered. Agents also discovered drawings of improvised explosive devices, significant quantities of Triacetone Triperoxide, which is an explosive substance used in the creation of improvised explosive devices, exploded and unexploded components of pipe-bomb devices, fusing, and a partially constructed pressure-cooker explosive device similar to that used in the Boston Marathon bombing.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Virginia State Police, the Richlands Police Department and the Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Zachary T. Lee and Whit D. Pierce are prosecuting the case for the United States.
North Carolina Man Who Used Snapchat to Solicit Minors in Galax Sentenced to 210 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. - A North Carolina man, who used the popular social media messaging app Snapchat to solicit minors to send him sexually explicit photographs and videos in exchange for expensive gifts, was sentenced today to 210 months in prison.
According to court documents, Jason Kelly Inman, 41, of Mount Airy, N.C., used Snapchat to solicit minor victims living in Grayson County, Virginia, to send him sexually explicit photographs and videos of themselves. Inman targeted at least four minor, male victims, all who resided in Galax, Virginia, and ranged in age from 14 to 16 years old.
“This case demonstrates the lengths sexual predators will go seek out, win the trust of, and then victimize children. It also is a reminder of the dangers that exist for children online,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bubar. “I commend the hard work and partnership of the Grayson County Sheriff’s Office, the Virginia State Police and the FBI, which brought Inman to justice to face his heinous crimes and will ensure he can no longer victimize children.”
“Through our community outreach programs the FBI is committed to bringing attention to the dangers associated with online sexual predators and providing educational tools and resources for parents and educators to help keep our children safe,” Special Agent in Charge Stanley M. Meador said today. “FBI Richmond is appreciative of the dedicated efforts of our partners which led to the capture and successful prosecution of this predator.”
Inman admitted that between June 2020 and December 2020, his general pattern of behavior was to exchange messages with his victims using Snapchat and provide the victims with gifts, including alcohol, marijuana, vape cartridges, money, and cell phones. Inman would then turn the conversation toward sexual issues, eventually requesting and receiving sexually explicit photographs and videos from his victims via Snapchat, in exchange for the victims continuing to receive gifts. Inman also traveled to Grayson County to deliver gifts to his victims. There is no evidence of actual physical contact between Inman and the victims.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Grayson County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Virginia State Police.
Assistant United States Attorneys Lena L. Busscher and Whit D. Pierce are prosecuting the case for the United States.
Bristol, Virginia Man Sentenced for Making False Statements About Drug UseRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va.– A Bristol, Virginia man, who made false statements about his drug use during a hearing related to his federal supervision, was sentenced this week to 30 months in federal prison.
According to court documents, Amanza James Pollino, 41, was on supervised release following a 2008 conviction for conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Pollino served a 120-month sentence before being placed on supervised release in 2018.
On December 14, 2020, Pollino appeared before the Federal District Court for violating his supervised release. At the hearing, Pollino testified under oath that he had not used a controlled substance, including cocaine, in more than a month and a half, or around approximately November 2020. However, evidence presented at trial showed Pollino tested positive for cocaine immediately following his testimony at an earlier hearing. He eventually admitted using cocaine on December 6, 2020—six days before the hearing.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lena Busscher and Randy Ramseyer prosecuted the case.
Madison County Woman Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud, Wire FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLOTESVILLE, Va. – A Madison County, Virginia woman pleaded guilty yesterday to mail and wire fraud charges related to a scheme in which she stole at least $1.5 million from victims while purporting to have terminal cancer, vast wealth, and connections to celebrities.
According to court documents, Christine F. Anderson, 51, of Reva, Va., owned and operated the publishing companies known as Christine F. Anderson Publishing and Media (CFA) and Sage Wisdom. Anderson took money from book authors but later failed to pay the authors their royalties as owed and did not provide products and services as negotiated. In addition, Anderson often falsely claimed to have been diagnosed with cancer to delay payment to the book authors, while also purporting to maintain vast wealth, and connections to celebrities.
When authors failed to receive the royalty payments they were owed, Anderson made elaborate excuses for the delay, including being busy working with the White House on the State of the Union.
In addition to the book publishing scheme, Anderson also admitted to orchestrating a real estate scheme where she signed contracts for expensive real estate, provided false proof of funds, and then was unable to provide the earnest money deposits. Often, Anderson would sign bad checks for the earnest money deposits, which would never clear. While she was putting contracts on these properties, Anderson took money from individuals helping her in these real estate schemes, promising to pay these individuals back. Anderson used her false interest in the expensive real estate to prove to her victims that she was able to pay back the loans, but never did. Anderson’s excuses for her inability to pay the earnest money deposit and the loans included her false claims of a cancer diagnosis and freezes on her bank accounts, among other excuses.
The total actual loss to victims is between $1.5 and $3.5 million.
“To cover up her expansive fraud scheme, the defendant preyed upon victims’ sympathies, including making false statements about having cancer,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar stated today. “Such behavior is not only unconscionable, but also a serious federal crime. I am proud of the hard work of the FBI and Madison County Sheriff’s Office, which brought Anderson to justice and will restore some measure of resolution to the victims.”
“With this guilty plea, Ms. Anderson has finally accepted responsibility for her actions; and those who were manipulated and suffered losses because of her deceit will see justice served,” stated Special Agent in Charge Stanley M. Meador. “FBI Richmond appreciates the partnership of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and the Western District of the United States Attorney’s Office during this investigation. If you suspect fraud, please report it to tips.fbi.gov or to your local FBI office.”
Anderson pleaded guilty yesterday to three counts of mail fraud and eight counts of wire fraud. She is scheduled to be sentenced on December 2, 2021 and faces up to 20 years imprisonment on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Rumsey and Madison County Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Wade Gelbert are prosecuting the case.
If you believe you are a victim of fraud or have information about the allegations in this case, please contact the FBI in Charlottesville at 434-293-9663.
Inmate at USP Lee Pleads Guilty to Possessing ContrabandRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – An inmate at the United States Penitentiary (USP) Lee County in Jonesville, Virginia pleaded guilty last week to possessing contraband in prison.
According to court documents, Antoine Biggs, 37, pleaded guilty to one possessing contraband in prison and one count of possession with the intent to distribute buprenorphine. He will be sentenced on October 6, 2021. He faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar made the announcement.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Debbie Stevens prosecuted the case for the United States.
Wise County Man Sentenced in Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Wise County, Virginia man, who conspired with others to file for fraudulent pandemic unemployment benefits, was sentenced today to 87 months in prison for conspiring to defraud the United States and conspiring to commit mail fraud.
According to court documents, Travis Kilgore, 34, defrauded the government of more than $182,474 in pandemic unemployment benefits beginning in May 2020. Kilgore was also ordered to pay $164,470 in restitution. The government previously recouped $18,004.
“When Kilgore filed numerous false claims for pandemic insurance benefits, he committed a serious crime and stole funds designed to help those truly in need because of the international pandemic,” Acting U.S. Attorney Bubar stated today. “We are thankful for the good work of the investigative team, including the Department of Labor, IRS and our state and local partners, and will continue to closely work together to bring all who stole from these important programs to justice.”
“Travis Kilgore conspired with others to commit fraud against the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program by filing for and receiving benefits that he and others were not entitled to receive. The U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General will continue to work closely with the Virginia Employment Commission and our law enforcement partners, to safeguard the integrity of all unemployment assistance programs,” stated Syreeta Scott, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
“Fraud involving falsely receiving pandemic relief funds is particularly cold-hearted. Those dishonestly taking advantage of programs meant to help people in need during a global crisis need to be held accountable for their criminal actions. Today, another individual who stole pandemic unemployment benefits received the consequences of their actions,” said Darrell J. Waldon, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI Washington D.C. Field Office.
Kilgore admitted that he and his wife developed a scheme beginning in May 2020 to defraud the United States and the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) through the filing of fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits.
According to court documents, Kilgore, his wife, and others filed claims for pandemic unemployment benefits through the VEC website. The scheme involved submitting claims for various individuals, including Kilgore and his wife, who were not eligible to receive pandemic unemployment benefits. Kilgore falsified the filings as part of the scheme to appear eligible for benefits. Because pandemic unemployment benefits were paid weekly, Kilgore reverified and re-certified the false statements on numerous occasions throughout the scheme.
In all, Kilgore and his wife filed claims for approximately 21 other individuals, causing at least $182,474 in false claims to be paid.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Department of Labor-Office of the Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Norton Police Department, and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. Murphy is prosecuting the case for the United States.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form .
Ex-Attorney Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud, Making False StatementsRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – A former Lynchburg attorney, who specialized in elder law and estate planning, pleaded guilty today to wire fraud and making false statements.
According to court documents, Cherie Anne Washburn, 45, engaged in a scheme to defraud and obtain money or property by fraudulent pretenses, representations or promises from elderly victims C.A. and D.F. Washburn is alleged to have used the ill-gotten monies to enrich herself, including purchasing real estate and making donations to charities.
“This defendant held herself out as an attorney specializing in helping elderly clients. Instead, when hired by the victims in this case, she exploited the trust that was placed in her to use her clients’ money as her own and caused great harm to her victims,” Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar said today. “The United States Attorney’s Office, FBI, and our partners at the Lynchburg Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office will continue to investigate and prosecute elder fraud as a top priority.”
“I am grateful to the U. S. Attorney’s Office who so willing offered to combine our efforts and resources for this case,” said Bethany Harrison, Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Lynchburg. “The coordinated response to investigate Washburn’s financial exploitation of her former clients involved many agencies such as Adult Protective Services, the Lynchburg Police Department, and the FBI. The public can have confidence in our ability to work together to expose abuses of positions of power and trust as shown through this successful prosecution.”
In 2015 and 2016, a senior care management service company referred victims C.A. and D.F. to Washburn for the purpose of obtaining elder legal services. Washburn subsequently entered separate Power of Attorney (POA) agreements with both victims. Under the terms of both POAs, Washburn was entitled to reasonable compensation and reimbursement for reasonable expenses for services rendered but could not use the personal property of the client to benefit the attorney.
Despite the agreements, Washburn wrote multiple checks and made wire transfers from victim C.A. and victim D.F.’s accounts to herself for personal benefit. These checks and transfers ranged in value from $3,025 to $45,000. Additionally, in 2017, Washburn attempted to improperly make herself the beneficiary of two investment accounts held by C.A.. At the time, these accounts had a combined approximate value of $288,000.
In April 2018, Washburn entered into an agreement to purchase a residence in Lynchburg, Va., for approximately $219,000 using monies belonging to victim C.A. and a mortgage lender. In order to complete the purchase, on or about April 22, 2018, Washburn submitted a letter to Quicken Loans falsely stating that Washburn was victim C.A.’s great-niece and that C.A. provided Washburn with a gift of $40,000 for the purchase of the residence. The next day Washburn deposited $45,000 from victim C.A.’s SunTrust Account to Washburn’s Wells Fargo account.
Washburn pleaded guilty to two count of wire frauds and one count of making a false statement to a mortgage lender. At sentencing, Washburn faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lynchburg City Police Department are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Baudinet, Lynchburg Commonwealth’s Attorney Bethany Harrison, and Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar are prosecuting the case.
Tractor-Trailer Driver from Illinois Pleads Guilty to Transporting Minor from Virginia to South Dakota and Engaging in Criminal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Cahokia, Illinois man pleaded guilty today to transporting a minor from Virginia to South Dakota with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.
According to court documents, David Kyle Skaggs, 33, was an over-the-road tractor-trailer operator. In 2015, Skaggs started communicating on Facebook with a 15-year-old boy in Lee County, Virginia. Over the course of several months, Skaggs and the boy, “AA,” developed a friendly relationship and Skaggs became acquainted with AA’s family, including AA’s younger sister, victim “KL,” who was 13 years old.
In August 2015, Skaggs took AA and KL on a long-distance trip in his tractor-trailer. Skaggs picked up AA and KL in Lee County and drove them to South Dakota. After stopping at a truck stop in South Dakota, Skaggs bought the two minors alcohol, and they all drank while sitting in the truck. After AA was asleep, Skaggs had sexual intercourse with KL in the sleeper portion of Skaggs’ truck. KL later gave birth to Skaggs’s child.
Skaggs is scheduled to be sentenced on September 30, 2021 and faces a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia and Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Lee County Sheriff’s Department, and Virginia Department of Social Services investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Whit D. Pierce is prosecuting the case.
Southwest Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Traffic Methamphetamine from Georgia to Lee and Wise CountiesRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Wise County, Virginia man pleaded guilty today to conspiring with others to traffic methamphetamine from Georgia into Lee and Wise counties for further distribution.
According to court documents, Cory Austin Hamond, 23, purchased significant quantities of methamphetamine from co-defendant Daniel Rowland and other sources in Georgia. Hammond then transported the drugs into Lee and Wise County for redistribution. Hammond admitted today to purchasing more than 500 grams of methamphetamine between July 1, 2019 and December 31, 2020.
Hammond pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of distributing methamphetamine. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 29, 2021 and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Southwest Virginia Drug Task Force are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lena Busscher is prosecuting the case.
Lebanon, Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Lebanon, Virginia man pleaded guilty today to using the online messaging application KIK to distribute images of child pornography to undercover law enforcement officers.
According to court documents, Matthew Thompson, 40, used KIK, an application where individuals create usernames and can send messages online, to communicate with others he believed to be interested in trading images of child pornography.
In June 2020, undercover law enforcement officers located in Wisconsin identified Thompson’s KIK username, “gbrown20201,” as being responsible for distributing child pornography by posting such materials onto a KIK chatroom messaging board frequented by individuals interested in child pornography images.
In July 2020, law enforcement officials in Texas identified the “gbrown20201” username as being an active member of two known child pornography chatgroups and serving as an administrator for one of the groups. The Texas investigation revealed that Thompson distributed at least nine images of child pornography between the dates of July 24, 2020, and July 31, 2020, and received additional child pornography materials.
Thompson pleaded guilty to one count of knowingly distributing one or more visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct that has been mailed or transported in interstate or foreign commerce. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 29, 2021 and faces an agreed upon sentence of between 60 to 72 months in prison.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Virginia State Police, and Russell County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lena Busscher is prosecuting the case.
Inmate at USP Lee Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing A WeaponRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – An inmate at USP Lee in Jonesville, Virginia pleaded guilty yesterday to unlawfully possessing a weapon inside the prison.
According to court documents, Andrew Bryant, 35, was subjected to a search while being escorted within the prison and a weapon was found inside his right shoe. The weapon was approximately 4-and-one-half inches long and appeared to be made from locker metal and was sharpened to a point on one end with a handle made of duct tape with bed linens on the other end.
Bryant pleaded guilty yesterday to one count of possessing contraband in a prison, that contraband being a weapon. Bryant will be sentenced on September 27, 2021, and according to a plea agreement, faces up to an additional 42 months in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Prisons are investigating the case.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven J. Luckie is prosecuting the case.
Southwest Virginia Man Sentenced for Dealing Firearms Without a LicenseRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Dickenson County, Virginia man, who illegally sold firearms without a license was sentenced last week to six months in federal prison.
Tommy Roger Dotson, 65, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of willfully engaging in the business of selling firearms without a license. As part of his plea, Dotson relinquished 59 seized firearms and more than $13,000 in cash.
According to court documents, in October 2019 the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) began an investigation of firearm sales at the Indian Mountain Trade Center to identify and monitor individuals who appeared to be in the business of dealing firearms without a Federal Firearms License (FFL). Investigators with the ATF observed Dotson, and others, regularly selling firearms to Trade Center attendees. Dotson sold numerous firearms from a sales booth, where he regularly displayed 25 to 50 firearms for sale. During the investigation, Dotson also instructed another unlicensed firearms dealer to the lie to the ATF.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Virginia State Police investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Zachary T. Lee and Whit D. Pierce prosecuted the case for the United States.
Pair Plead Guilty to Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Miami, Florida man pleaded guilty last week to conspiring with a Bristol, Tennessee man to pay and receive kickbacks.
According to court documents, Michael Olshavsky, 51, of Miami, Florida, and John Paul Linke, 57, of Bristol, Tenn., conspired to receive and pay kickbacks to encourage urine drug screen testing performed by a lab in Florida. Some of the testing referred to the lab was paid for by Medicare, Virginia Medicaid, and TennCare.
Between November 30, 2015, and May 30, 2016, Linke was employed at an office-based opioid treatment program that used medication-assisted treatment for patients suffering from substance use disorder. In exchange for being paid $5,000 per month, Linke arranged for the clinic to send urine drug screen samples to the laboratory in Florida where Olshavasky worked. These payments were disguised as commissions paid to Linke as an “independent sales representative” for Olshavsky’s company, Encore Holdings LLC. Olshavasky paid Linke at least $16,000 through Encore Holdings to direct WRC’s drug screening business to the Florida lab, although Linke was not actually an independent sales representative for Encore, and he did not act as such.
“This prosecution demonstrates our commitment to protect the integrity of the health care system and hold individuals accountable who seek to fraudulently obtain critical Medicare and Medicaid funds,” Acting U.S. Attorney Bubar stated. “We will continue to investigate and prosecute healthcare providers who attempt to divert these funds for their own use. I am grateful for the continued partnership of the Virginia Attorney General’s Office and our other federal and state partners, whose hard work brought these providers to justice.”
“Healthcare providers who act fraudulently are not only stealing from our healthcare system but they are also stealing from taxpayers and they must be held accountable,” said Attorney General Herring. “I want to thank our local, state, and federal partners who worked alongside my Medicaid Fraud Control Unit to bring this case to justice and I look forward to our continued partnership on other important cases.”
“Those who seek to profit off the opioid crisis through illegal schemes make the problem worse,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark S. McCormack, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Metro Washington Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who, through their dishonesty, jeopardize the public health.”
Olshavsky pleaded guilty last week to one count of conspiring to pay and receive kickbacks. He will be sentenced on September 17, 2021 and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. Linke pleaded guilty recently to one count of conspiring to pay and receive kickbacks. He will be sentenced on September 16, 2021 and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The Virginia Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Food and Drug Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services—Office of Inspector General, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the Virginia State Police are investigating the case.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Janine M. Myatt and Assistant United States Attorneys Randy Ramseyer and Whit Pierce are prosecuting the case.
Lee County Woman Pleads Guilty to Nearly $700,000 Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Lee County woman pleaded guilty today to conspiring to defraud the government of more than $699,124 in pandemic-related unemployment funds, mail fraud, and aggravated identity theft.
According to court documents, Farren Ricketts, 30, and others conspired to file fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits through the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) website. The scheme involved Ricketts filing claims for various individuals, including her husband and others known to be ineligible to receive pandemic employment benefits.
To further the conspiracy, Ricketts developed a business entity called “Ricketts Advisory, LLC,” registered with the State Corporation Commission, and advertised as a financial services company providing assistance filing pandemic unemployment claims.
Between May 2020 and February 2021, Ricketts filed more than 100 fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits. For many of these filings, Ricketts created fraudulent documents to support the claims, including fraudulent IRS forms to purport pre-pandemic income.
In addition, Ricketts filed numerous claims in the names of prison inmates who were unaware that Ricketts was using their personally identifiable information.
“Defrauding the federal government of critical funds designed to assist those in need is unconscionable, particularly during a worldwide pandemic. It is also a federal crime with serious consequences,” Acting U.S. Attorney Bubar stated today. “Along with our partners at the Department of Labor and IRS, we will continue to investigate and prosecute anyone who stole from these vital programs and bring them to justice.”
“Farren Rickets engaged in a scheme to defraud the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program by submitting fraudulent claims for benefits for herself and others. This scheme resulted in a loss to the government of more than $669,000. Unemployment insurance programs exists to provide needed assistance to qualified individuals who are unemployed or underemployed due to no fault of their own. Fraud against these programs causes state workforce agencies, like the Virginia Employment Commission, to redirect valuable resources to address fraud in order to ensure benefits go to individuals who are eligible to receive them. The U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General will continue to work closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Virginia Employment Commission, and our many law enforcement partners to investigate those who exploit the unemployment insurance program,” stated Syreeta Scott, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General
“Thieves fraudulently taking advantage of pandemic unemployment assistance is disgraceful. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners in an effort to hold those accountable who stole funds meant to help those in need,” said Darrell J. Waldon, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI Washington DC Field Office.
Ricketts pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, one count of mail fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft. She is scheduled to be sentenced on October 29, 2021. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Murphy is prosecuting the case.
Winchester Woman Pleads Guilty to Distributing Acetyl Fentanyl and FentanylRead the Press Release
HARRISONBURG, Va. – A Winchester woman pleaded guilty today to distributing acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl in February 2019.
According to court documents, Jennifer Lynn Heishman, 37, of Winchester, Virginia, contacted an individual on February 23, 2019, to arrange a purchase of heroin. Later that evening, Heishman paid $100 for two foil packets of drugs, using money provided by her boyfriend. Heishman then brought the drugs into the residence, distributed them to her boyfriend, and they ingested the drugs.
The next day, February 24, 2019, a piece of foil containing a grayish colored power was recovered from Heishman’s residence. The foil packet was one of the two packets of drugs Heishman distributed the previous day and tested positive for fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl.
Heishman pleaded guilty to knowingly and intentionally distributing a mixture or substance containing acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl. She is scheduled to be sentenced on October 22, 2021 and faces a period of incarceration within the range of 72 to 132 months.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia and Jared Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Winchester Police Department, and Northwest Virginia Drug and Gang Task Force are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lena Busscher and Randy Ramseyer are prosecuting the case.
Southwest Virginia Man Sentenced for Dealing Firearms Without a LicenseRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Pound, Virginia man, who illegally sold firearms without a license was sentenced yesterday to eight months in federal prison.
James Michael Boggs, 66, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of willfully engaging in the business of selling firearms without a license.
According to court documents, in October 2019 the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) began an investigation of firearm sales at the Indian Mountain Trade Center to identify and monitor individuals who appeared to be in the business of dealing firearms without a Federal Firearms License (FFL). Investigators with the ATF observed Boggs, and others, regularly selling firearms to Trade Center attendees. During the time of these sales, Boggs did not possess a Federal Firearms License, which is required to engage in the business of dealing firearms.
Boggs sold firearms to an undercover agent on three occasions, including nine handguns, a shotgun, and an AR-style rifle. During their interactions, the undercover agent told Boggs that the agent would be transporting the firearms to Newport News, Virginia to resell them to individuals who could not legally purchase firearms.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Virginia State Police investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Zachary T. Lee and Whit D. Pierce prosecuted the case for the United States.
Russell Co. Woman Sentenced in $499,000 Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Russell County woman was sentenced today to 108 months in prison and to pay $455,930.00 in restitution, for conspiring with others to defraud the government of more than $499,000 and to commit mail fraud, and committing aggravated identify theft and for distributing drugs into a prison facility.
According to court documents, Leelynn Danielle Chytka, 31, waived her right to be indicted in March 2021 and pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the government, one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud with respect to benefits authorized and paid in connection with a presidentially declared major disaster or emergency, one count of aggravated identity theft, and one count of distribution of suboxone.
“In the midst of a global pandemic, this defendant conspired with others to defraud the Virginia Employment Commission of nearly $500,000 intended for Virginians in need,” Acting United States Attorney Bubar said today. “This was money set aside by the federal government to assist those struggling during the COVID-19 crisis—not meant to line the pockets of fraudsters. I am grateful for the work of the Department of Labor and the IRS for the tireless work the put in to uncovering this fraud and bringing these defendants to justice.”
“Chytka and her co-conspirators dishonestly obtained nearly half a million dollars in pandemic unemployment compensation. We will continue to investigate those who exploit programs designed to help those struggling through this global pandemic. There are criminal consequences to personally enriching yourself at the cost of others,” said Darrell J. Waldon, IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge of the Washington DC Field Office.
“LeeLynn Chytka defrauded the United States of at least $499,000 by leading a scheme involving more than 35 co-conspirators to include inmates in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections, in the fraudulent filing for and receipt of Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits. This type of fraud causes significant harm to many citizens. The U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General and its partners at the Virginia Employment Commission will continue working with our law enforcement partners to vigorously pursue those who commit fraud against the unemployment insurance program,” said Syreeta Scott, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Philadelphia Region, U. S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
Chytka admitted to leading a conspiracy to commit fraud against the United States in connection with a scheme involving the filing of fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment benefits.
According to court documents, Chytka, and others, conspired to collect personal identification information of more than 35 co-conspirators, including 15 inmates in the custody of the Virginia Department of Corrections, and to file fraudulent claims of pandemic-related unemployment benefits.
Over the course of nine months, Chytka filed fraudulent claims for at least 37 individuals, with a total actual loss to the United States of at least $499,000.
The Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Norton Police Department, and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. Murphy prosecuted the case.
Three Indicted on Federal Drug Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – A husband and wife from Fairfax and their cousin from Spotsylvania were indicted last month with conspiring to distribute controlled substances in the Western District of Virginia.
According to court documents, Fahid Rashid, 30, Akhter Ahmed, 28, and Khalisah Khan, 29, conspired to traffic counterfeit pills containing fentanyl. The defendants, and others, are charged with selling thousands of counterfeit pills in and around the Western District of Virginia containing fentanyl and multiple kilograms of methamphetamine. The defendants are accused of using multiple addresses in Culpeper, Spotsylvania, Winchester, Fairfax, and elsewhere for their drug trafficking activities. Rashid is also charged in a scheme in which he possessed vehicles knowing their VIN numbers had been altered.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia; and Jared Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Blue Ridge Narcotics and Gang Task Force, Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office, Fairfax County Police Department, Arlington County Police Department, and the United States Postal Inspection Service are investigating the case. The Blue Ridge Narcotics and Gang Task Force is comprised of investigative personnel from the Culpeper, Fauquier, Orange, Rappahannock Sheriff's Departments, Culpeper and Warrenton Police Departments and the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Culpeper Field Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Rumsey is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former Supplement Company Owner Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Distribution of Steroid-like DrugsRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A New Jersey chiropractor pleaded guilty today to a felony charge relating to the distribution of steroid-like drugs in purported dietary supplements.
According to court documents, Nicholas Andrew Puccio, 41, currently of Columbus, New Jersey, pleaded guilty to introducing an unapproved new drug into interstate commerce with the intent to defraud and mislead the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and consumers. The United States alleged that from 2016 to 2020, Puccio marketed drugs as “dietary supplements” to the bodybuilding and fitness community. The supplements included a product labeled as containing ostarine, a type of synthetic steroid known as a Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator (SARM). The FDA has long warned against the use of SARMs, including stating in a 2017 warning letter to another firm that SARMs had been linked to life-threatening reactions such as liver toxicity, and have the potential to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
“Undermining the FDA drug approval process puts consumers at risk, especially when those drugs contain ingredients that can cause harm,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department of Justice will continue to work closely with the FDA to prosecute those who put profit before the public health.”
“When Mr. Puccio marketed unapproved drugs as dietary supplements, he sidestepped important safeguards to protect the public, and must be held accountable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia. “Our office will continue to closely partner with FDA to ensure safety and effectiveness in our drug supply and prosecute those who flout these rules.”
“Marketing misbranded dietary supplements that contain unapproved drugs is illegal and is a threat to public health,” said Assistant Commissioner for Criminal Investigations Catherine A. Hermsen of the FDA's Office of Criminal Investigations. “We remain committed to bringing to justice companies and individuals who attempt to subvert the regulatory functions of the FDA by distributing unapproved, and potentially dangerous, drugs.”
Puccio pleaded guilty before Judge James P. Jones in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 23, and faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Ramseyer of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Speare Hodges of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch are prosecuting the case.
Carroll County Woman Pleads Guilty to Supplemental Security Income FraudRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Carroll County woman pleaded guilty today to Supplemental Security Income fraud after receiving disability benefits for more than two years for which she was not entitled.
According to court documents, Jessica Lynn Hawks, previously known as Jessica Lynn Wardwell, 37, received benefits from the Social Security Administration for which she was not entitled. Hawks admitted today that from February 7, 2014 to August 1, 2016, she received $21,858 in Supplemental Security Income disability benefits of behalf of a minor child that was no longer in her custody. Hawks agreed under penalty of perjury that she would use all disability benefits made to her as the representative payee for her minor child’s needs. She also agreed to notify the Social Security Administration of any change in her child’s living arrangements or care. However, when Hawks lost custody of her child in February 2014, she never informed the Social Security Administration that the minor child was no longer in her care and instead converted the disability benefits she received on the minor’s behalf for her own benefit.
Hawks pleaded guilty to knowingly and willfully converting Supplemental Security Income disability benefits received for the use and benefit of another, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 1383a(a)(4). She is scheduled to be sentenced on September 28, 2021 and faces a period of incarceration of zero to six months, pursuant to a written plea agreement entered with the government.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement.
The Office of the Inspector General – Social Security Administration is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lena Busscher is prosecuting the case.
USP Lee Inmate Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Kill Fellow InmateRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – An inmate at United State Penitentiary- Lee County (USP Lee) pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiring to kill a fellow inmate, attempting to commit murder, and being an inmate in possession of a prohibited object in relation to an assault that occurred in January 2020.
According to court documents, Moris Flores, 32, and four fellow inmates - Carlos Almonte, Julio Chavez, German Hernandez, and Angel Guevara - entered a cell occupied by victim “AZ” on January 15, 2020, with the intent to commit murder. Flores, a member of MS-13, admitted today that he and Guevara entered the prison cell to attack AZ, a member of the Mexican Mafia, while Almonte, Chavez, and Hernandez surrounded the cell and held the door closed, preventing others from interfering with the attack.
Today Flores admitted that inside the cell he and Guevara attacked victim “AZ” with metal shanks and closed fists. Victim “AZ” sustained multiple stab and puncture wounds. Flores faces up to life in prison on the conspiracy to commit murder charge.
“Violence within our federal prison system simply will not be tolerated and we will do all we can to continue to closely partner with the FBI and Bureau of Prisons to investigate and prosecute those who continue to break the law inside such facilities,” Acting U.S. Attorney Bubar said today. “I appreciate the hard work of the investigative team, which brought Flores to justice.”
“The FBI will aggressively investigate and work closely with the United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Virginia, to prosecute violations of an individual’s civil rights and bring those responsible to justice,” Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division said today.
Almonte, Chavez, Hernandez, and Guevara have all been charged for their roles in the assault.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lena Busscher and Danny Murphy are prosecuting the case.
Federal Inmate Found Guilty of Possessing Foot-long KnifeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A federal jury convicted an inmate at United States Penitentiary (USP) Lee in Jonesville, Virginia, on June 1, for illegally possessing a knife inside the prison.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Jose Soto-Ramirez, 34, was found in possession of a 12-inch-long handmade knife while housed as an inmate at the prison. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for September 7, 2021. Soto-Ramirez faces up to five years in prison.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement.
The Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Service is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Ramseyer and Special Assistant United States Attorney Christine Hummert are prosecuting the case.
Kentucky Woman Sentenced on Bank Fraud, Aggravated Identify Theft ChargesRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Clay City, Kentucky woman, who along with two other individuals stole checks and identification documents and committed bank fraud and aggravated identify theft, was sentenced on Thursday to 39 months in federal prison.
Anica Maire Santiago, 34, pleaded guilty in May 2021 to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. Co-defendants Cregg Mitchell-Feazell and Patricia Butcher have both pleaded guilty and will be sentenced next month.
According to court documents, on May 24, 2020, at the Iron Furnace Trailhead in Lee County, members of the conspiracy broke into several vehicles and stole personal items, including identification documents, Social Security cards, and personal checks. Four days later, the defendants took one of the stolen checks to a drive-through lane at a Commercial Bank in Newport, Tennessee. The check was fraudulently made out to one of the victims of the previously thefts. Butcher produced the fraudulent check and a stolen state-issued photo ID to the bank teller, who cashed the check for $935.
The group used the stolen checks and IDs several other times to cash fraudulent checks. These events were also part of a larger organized scheme involving other break-ins at other locations, other thefts of checkbooks and identification documents, and the cashing of other fraudulent checks.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement.
The National Park Service, with assistance from the Jacksboro, Tennessee Police Department; the Campbell County, Tennessee Sheriff’s Office; the Fentress County, Tennessee Sheriff’s Office; and the Cookeville, Tennessee Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Whit D. Pierce and Randy Ramseyer prosecuted the case.
USP Lee Inmate Sentenced for Weapon PossessionRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – Anthony Meyers, an inmate at United States Penitentiary (USP) Lee in Jonesville, Virginia, was sentenced recently to 42 months in federal prison for unlawfully possessing a weapon inside the prison.
Meyers, 37, possessed a 6 and one-half inch long prison-made, sharpened knife. He pleaded guilty in February 2021, to one count of illegal possession of contraband inside the prison.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar announced the sentence today.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Special Assistant United States Attorney Debbie Stevens prosecuted the case for the United States.
Madison County Woman Indicted for Mail Fraud, Wire FraudRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment yesterday charging a Madison, Virginia woman with nearly a dozen counts of fraud related to a scheme in which she took money from victims while purporting to have terminal cancer, vast wealth, and connections to celebrities.
According to court documents, starting in 2014, Christine Favara Anderson, 51, of Reva, Va., owned and operated the publishing companies known as Christine F. Anderson Publishing and Media (CFA) and Sage Wisdom. Anderson took money from book authors but later failed to pay the authors their royalties as owed and did not provide products and services as negotiated. In addition, Anderson often falsely claimed to have been diagnosed with cancer to delay payment to the book authors, while also purporting to maintain vast wealth.
In addition to the alleged book publishing scheme, Anderson is also charged with orchestrating a real estate scheme where she signed contracts for expensive real estate, provided false proof of funds, and then was unable to provide the earnest money deposits. Often, Anderson would sign bad checks for the earnest money deposits, which would never clear. While she was putting contracts on these properties, Anderson took money from individuals helping her in these real estate schemes, promising to pay these individuals back. Anderson used her false interest in the expensive real estate to prove to her victims that she was able to pay back the loans, but never did. Anderson’s excuses for her inability to pay the earnest money deposit and the loans included her false claims of a cancer diagnosis and freezes on her bank accounts.
Anderson is charged with eight counts of wire fraud, three counts of mail fraud, one count of making a false statement, and one count of concealing records in a federal investigation.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia and Special Agent in Charge Stanley M. Meador of the FBI’s Richmond Division made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Rumsey and Madison County Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Wade Gelbert are prosecuting the case.
If you believe you are a victim of fraud or have information about the allegations in this case, please contact the FBI in Charlottesville at 434-293-9663.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Bluefield Doctor Sentenced to Federal Prison on Misbranding ChargeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A family medicine physician in Bluefield, Virginia, was sentenced yesterday to one month in prison on a charge of misbranding Schedule II controlled substances to three individuals, two of whom his office staff called “back door patients.”
According to court documents, between December 2014 and January 2016, Phillip Peterson, 64, was a family medicine physician at Bluefield Family Medicine in Bluefield, Va. During this time, Peterson saw several patients who did not check in with the receptionist but rather entered through a side door. Office staff called these patients “back door patients.” These patients came through the side door to pick-up Schedule II controlled substances prescriptions, which they had received from Peterson. These “back door patients” were not actually examined by Dr. Peterson each time they picked-up prescriptions and did not pay for office visits. Evidence showed that each of the prescriptions listed for the “back door patients” was issued outside the usual course of professional practice.
Dr. Peterson also had one patient who brought lists of prescriptions to the front desk of Bluefield Family Medicine for the receptionist to give to Dr. Peterson or his nurse. Dr. Peterson authorized those prescriptions, including prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances, on occasion without the patient actually being seen or evaluated by Dr. Peterson. Evidence showed these prescriptions were issued outside the usual course of professional practice.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar and Special Agent in Charge Jared Forget of the Drug Enforcement Administration made the announcement.
The investigation of the case was conducted by Drug Enforcement Administration’s Tactical Diversion Squad. Assistant United States Attorneys Lena L. Busscher, Whit D. Pierce and Randy Ramseyer prosecuted the case for the United States.
Former Superintendent of Rockbridge County Regional Jail Sentenced on Federal Civil Rights and Bribery ChargesRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – John Marshall Higgins, the former superintendent of the Rockbridge County Regional Jail, was sentenced today to 51 months in federal prison for charges related to federal civil rights violations and public corruption.
According to court documents, Higgins, 62, a former member of the Rockbridge County Board of Supervisors, was convicted following a six-day bench trial in 2020 of three counts of deprivation of civil rights for denying medical care to an inmate and failing to protect two inmates from physical abuse, one count of conspiracy to commit mail and honest services fraud, and two counts of mail and honest services fraud for accepting things of value in exchange for engaging in official acts.
“Higgins violated the public trust placed in him as jail superintendent. He repeatedly interfered with certain sentences handed down by Virginia courts, taking matters into his own hands by allowing the abuse of certain inmates, but treating another inmate favorably to enrich himself,” Acting U.S. Attorney Bubar said today. “As the court found today, this conduct was simply egregious and went on for years. Today’s significant sentence ought to serve as a deterrent to any public servant who may be tempted to carry out the administration of justice with anything less than fairness under the law. I thank the FBI, the Virginia State Police, the Rockbridge County Commonwealth Attorney's Office and the prosecution team for their tireless work to bring Higgins to justice.”
“The responsibility of investigating federal Civil Rights and Color of Law violations rests with the FBI, regardless of an individual's status amongst our community or law enforcement affiliation,” Special Agent in Charge Stanley M. Meador of the FBI’s Richmond Division said today. “In his official capacity, Mr. Higgins turned a blind-eye to the medical needs and security of inmates while profiting personally by helping another. A clear abuse of his position, and catalyst for mistrust in law enforcement - which cannot and should not be tolerated. We are fully committed to protecting the rights of all citizens, and appreciate the partnership of the Virginia State Police, the Rockbridge County Commonwealth Attorney's Office, and the Western District of Virginia, United States Attorney's Office during this investigation.”
According to evidence presented at his trial, Higgins, as superintendent of the jail, failed to protect the rights of inmates at the regional jail by failing to provide an inmate with medical treatment and failing to protect that inmate from physical abuse from other inmates, which resulted in bodily injury. On multiple occasions Higgins was made aware of abusive conduct towards certain inmates and did nothing to prevent the abuse from occurring. On one occasion, Higgins refused to allow an inmate with potentially serious injuries to be seen by a physician for three days. The inmate was only provided medical care after other staff members sent the inmate to the hospital emergency room.
In addition, evidence demonstrated that Higgins, while superintendent of the jail, agreed to accept things of value from the family and friends of an inmate at the Rockbridge Regional Jail in exchange for providing preferential treatment to the inmate. These family members and friends provided at least $3,000 in payments and other items to a scholarship fund operated by Higgins and his family. The evidence demonstrated that in exchange for these payments, the inmate, who had been ordered to serve a three-year sentence at the Department of Corrections for vehicular manslaughter, received significant privileges while incarcerated at the Rockbridge Regional Jail. These privileges and preferential treatment included, but were not limited to, unsupervised contact visits with family and friends at the jail and at a farm located in Rockbridge County and deliveries of ice cream from Higgins to the inmate. Higgins also upgraded the cable package at the jail at the inmate’s request and granted the inmate unfettered access to jail facilities and Higgins’ personal office. Finally, at Higgins’ direction, the inmate was never sent to the Virginia Department of Corrections to serve his sentence, as dictated by policy and procedure, but instead served his entire sentence at the Rockbridge Regional Jail.
Gary Andrew Hassler, the former head nurse at the jail, was also convicted as part of the investigation. Hassler was convicted in 2020 following a jury trial on one count of impeding a federal investigation into civil rights violations at the Rockbridge Regional Jail by falsifying a document. Evidence at trial showed that on March 5, 2017, Hassler falsified a document to claim an inmate at the jail refused medical care. Hassler was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of twelve months and one day.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virginia State Police investigated the case. The Commonwealth Attorney’s Office for Rockbridge County assisted with the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zachary T. Lee and Matthew Miller prosecuted the case.
Atlanta Woman Sentenced to 204 Months in Prison for Role in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. –Nancy Degollado, an Atlanta, Georgia woman and the final defendant to be sentenced in a multi-state methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy, was sentenced last week to 204 months in federal prison.
According to court documents, from October 2018 through August 2019, members of a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy traveled to Georgia, at least three times to acquire a total of seven kilograms of methamphetamine from Degollado, which were then distributed to co-defendants and others in southwest Virginia and northeast Tennessee.
Co-conspirator Michael Dear, 42, of Bristol, Virginia, and Degollado both accepted responsibility for trafficking 7 kilograms of methamphetamine during the conspiracy. Co-defendants Joshua Sabins, Donald Thrift, Shannon Chapman, Brandon Cook, Shannon Wilmoth, Robert Osborne, Ashley Firestone, David Sexton, and Nancy Kestner all admitted they distributed methamphetamine acquired from Dear throughout southwest Virginia during this conspiracy. Multiple firearms were recovered during the course of the investigation, resulting in charges against Dear, Sabins, Thrift, and Chapman for being convicted felons illegally in possession of firearms, and against Osborne for being an unauthorized user of controlled substances in possession of a firearm.
“Disrupting supply chains of methamphetamine into our region, and the havoc this narcotic wreaks on our citizens, is a high priority for our office,” Acting U.S. Attorney Bubar stated today. “I am grateful for the dedication and hard work of our law enforcement partners for their efforts in this investigation and disrupting a major source of supply in southwest Virginia.”
“Unfortunately, even though we are still in the middle of a pandemic, our communities have continued to suffer from the effects of dangerous drugs like methamphetamine,” said Attorney General Mark Herring. “My team and I will continue to aggressively go after dangerous individuals who bring drugs into our communities. I want to thank our local, state, and federal partners for their dedication to keeping Virginia safe.”
Dear was sentenced to 188 months in prison for his role in the conspiracy and for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
All eleven defendants have now been sentenced in this case, including:
Sabins, 37, of Bristol, Va, was sentenced to 216 months in federal prison for his role in the conspiracy, as well as charges of possessing a firearm after being a prohibited person and attempting to forcibly assault a federal law enforcement officer.
Thrift, 31, of Bristol, Va., was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for his role in the conspiracy, as well as possessing a firearm after being a prohibited person.
Chapman, of Bristol, Va., was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy, as well as possessing a firearm after being a prohibited person.
Cook, 33, of Marion, Va., was sentenced to serve a total of 168 months in federal prison for his role in this conspiracy, as well as an additional charge of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine in connection with a separate conspiracy.
Wilmoth, 46, of Bristol, Tn, was sentenced to serve 30 months in federal prison for her role in this conspiracy.
Osborne, 50, of Marion, Va., was sentenced to serve a total of 120 months in federal prison for his role in the conspiracy, as well as a charge of being a user in possession of a firearm and an additional charge of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine in connection with a separate conspiracy.
Firestone, 28, of Saltville, Va., was sentenced to serve 60 months in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy.
Sexton, 45, of Glade Spring, Va., was sentenced to serve 30 months in federal prison for his role in the conspiracy.
Kestner, 41, of Glade Spring, Va., was sentenced to serve 42 months in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy.
The investigation of the case was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Bristol, Va. and Bristol, Tn. Police Departments, Smyth County Sheriff’s Office, Smyth County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, Turner County, Ga. Sheriff’s Office, United States Marshals, and Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
Special Assistant United States Attorney M. Suzanne Kerney-Quillen, a Virginia Assistant Attorney General assigned to the Attorney General’s Major Crimes and Emerging Threats Section, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Roy Evans prosecuted the case for the United States.
U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va., – In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said Attorney General Garland. “I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude.”
“Every day our police officers put on their badges and risk their lives to protect the safety of our communities,” Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel Bubar stated today. “They take up the call to serve in the face of great personal sacrifice and increasing adversity. Specifically, this past year’s global pandemic coupled with rising anti-police sentiment presented unprecedented challenges. Instead of wilting in the face of these difficult circumstances, these brave men and women provide security and the rule of law against violence and mayhem. Please join me this week in thanking our law enforcement community and taking time to honor their great sacrifice.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 PM EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to October 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for October 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.