Western District of Virginia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Covington Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a Firearm, Transporting Stolen FirearmsRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A previously convicted felon, who under federal law is prohibited from possessing a firearm, pled guilty today in federal court to breaking into a federally licensed firearms dealer and stealing two dozen firearms with hopes of later selling them, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today.
David Christopher Martin, 40, of Covington, Va., pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke to one count of being a previously convicted felon illegally in possession of a firearm and one count of transporting one or more stolen firearms in interstate commerce from Virginia to South Carolina.
According to evidence presented at today’s hearing by United States Attorney Fishwick, Martin admitted that on or about April 4, 2016 he used a rock to break the glass of the front door of Mountain Top Hunting and Fishing, a federally licensed firearms dealer located in Covington, Va. After breaking the glass of the front door, Martin entered the store through the broken window. Martin admitted that prior to the burglary he “cased” the business, examining the layout, inventory and security. To make his escape easier, he disassembled part of a fence at the rear of the store. Additionally, Martin purchased a set of wire cutters to disable what he believed to be part of the alarm system.
Once inside the store, Martin used the wire cutters to break the glass of a display cabinet where handguns were on display. He took what he thought to be the most valuable handguns and put them into a red bag and left the store with 24 handguns. Martin later admitted he planned to sell the handguns for approximately $6,000 and split the money with his girlfriend.
Early on the morning of April 4, 2016, Martin got into a van with co-worker to travel to Florida for a pressure washing job at a paper mill, taking the guns with him in the red bag. At one point during the trip, the driver of the van told Martin if he had anything illegal in the van he needed to get rid of it. At a rest stop near Yemassee, South Carolina, Martin got out of the van and hid the guns in the nearby woods, taking a picture of a unique tree near where he hid the guns, which were later recovered by federal agents.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives offices in Roanoke, Virginia, Charleston, South Carolina and Jacksonville, Florida, the Covington Police Department, the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, the Bloomingdale, Georgia Police Department, Colleton County Sheriff’s Office in South Carolina and the Nassau County Florida Sheriff’s Office. United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. and Assistant United States Attorney Anthony P. Giorno prosecuted the case for the United States.
Salem Man Sentenced for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today the sentencing of a Salem, Virginia man who was previously convicted of failing to registering as convicted sex offender.
Anthony Dean Iafornaro, 58, of Salem, Virginia, pled guilty today in March to one count of failing to register as a previously convicted sex offender. Today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke, Iafornaro was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release thereafter.
“The Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act is a tool used by law enforcement and the community to keep track of those individuals who have previously broken the law,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “When these individual, like Mr. Iafornaro, break the law again by failing to register, as they are required to, under SORNA, they must be held accountable.”
According to evidence presented at previous hearings by Assistant United States Attorney Charlene R. Day, Iafornaro was convicted of attempting to kidnap a minor in the State of Montana in February 2005. Upon his release, he relocated to the Commonwealth of Virginia and was required, by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, to register as a previously convicted sex offender. While Iafornaro did register under SORNA when first arriving in Virginia, he failed to keep his registration up-to-date after acknowledging his requirements to do so.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Charlene R. Day prosecuted the case for the United States.
Vinton Man Sentenced on Sex Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A 26-year-old, Vinton, Virginia resident, who was convicted of federal sex trafficking charges following a jury trial in October 2015, was sentenced yesterday in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today.
Terrell Banker, 26, of Vinton, Va., was convicted by a jury of one count of conspiring to engage in the sex trafficking of a minor, one count of engaging in the sex trafficking of a minor and one count of persuading or enticing a minor to engage in prostitution. Yesterday in District Court, Banker was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison. A co-defendant, Laura Cook, previously pled guilty to conspiracy to engage in the sex trafficking of a minor and was sentenced to 58 months in prison earlier this year.
“Sex trafficking is an international crisis that not only impacts men and women overseas but, tragically, is rooted in cities and towns all across our country,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “This case was particularly tragic because it involved the trafficking of a minor, a girl of just seventeen at the time of the incident. It is encouraging, however, that law enforcement helped identify the trafficking behavior and put an early end to what could have been a very long and painful run of abuse by these two defendants.”
“Human trafficking is one of the most heinous crimes we investigate. Victims are often vulnerable, and their traffickers prey on those vulnerabilities, trapping them in a cycle they can’t break free from. No person – especially a minor – should have to endure this treatment,” said Clark E. Settles, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. “Today’s sentence marks a win for law enforcement. One more trafficker is off the streets and will have to face the consequences of his actions behind bars.”
According to evidence presented at Banker’s trial and Cook’s guilty plea hearing, Victim One was a 17-year-old resident of Salem, Virginia who began socializing with Cook via the Internet in February 2015. At the insistence of Cook, Victim One stayed at Cook’s home, partied with Cook and took illegal drugs with Cook. At some point in February 2015, Cook introduced Victim One to Banker, who provided various illegal drugs to Cook, and others, including marijuana, methamphetamine and cocaine. Cook asked Banker to provide Victim One with methamphetamine. On at least one occasion, Banker took payment for the drugs he provided in the form of sex with Victim One.
In March 2015, Victim One ran away from home and was harbored by Cook. After discussing Victim One’s situation with Banker, Cook and Banker decided that Victim One would be prostituted as a way to earn money. Near the end of March 2015, Banker arranged a prostitution encounter for Victim One, transported her to take part in the commercial sex act and took payment from the “John.” Victim One was hungry, had no money and no other means to support herself and therefore, reluctantly, engaged in the commercial sex act at the direction of Banker and Cook.
The investigation of the case was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Roanoke City Police Department and the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony P. Giorno and Laura D. Rottenborn prosecuted the case for the United States.
United States Attorney, Boys and Girls Club, HIDTA, Ripken Foundation Announce Badges for Baseball in Roanoke ValleyRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – In cooperation with officials from the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA, the Cal Ripken Senior Foundation [CRSF] and the Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Virginia, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today the launching of Badges for Baseball in the Roanoke Valley.
“This program is about more than just baseball, it’s about building trust between our community and law enforcement,” United States Attorney Fishwick said today. “If we can strengthen the relationship the community has with law enforcement, through mentorship, through relationship building and use baseball as a conduit to strengthen that trust, it’s a huge first step in the right direction for Roanoke.”
Badges for Baseball is a juvenile crime prevention program created by the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation in partnership with the United States Department of Justice. The program’s goals are to pair police and children together to play and learn.
“We want to build relationships with the community but also teach the fundamental lessons of the program, including respect, teamwork and communication,” United States Attorney Fishwick added. “We are very excited to partner with the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, the Washington/Baltimore HIDTA and the Boys and Girls Club to bring such a wonderful opportunity to so many deserving children in Roanoke.”
Badges for Baseball is a nationwide initiative run by the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation in 177 communities in 18 states, including communities in Virginia such as Fredericksburg, Newport News and Richmond. The program has impacted more than 25,500 youth with the help of 1,365 law enforcement officers and professional youth mentors.
Cana, Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced the guilty plea today of a Virginia man to a federal drug conspiracy charge.
Rebel Steiner Akers, 59, of Cana, Virginia, pled guilty today in the United States District Court to one count of conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
“We will continue to devout all appropriate resources to combating the rise of methamphetamine trafficking in Southwest Virginia,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick said today. “I am grateful to all of the local, state and federal law enforcement agencies who work on the front lines of these investigations and take this dangerous drug off our streets.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and the Surry County, North Carolina Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
Roanoke Man Sentenced on Federal Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today the sentencing of a Roanoke man who previously pled guilty to a federal firearms charge.
Pierce Yarnell Brown, 38, of Roanoke, Va., pled guilty in March to one count of being a previously convicted felon illegally in possession of a firearm. Yesterday in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke, Brown was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison.
“We continue to be committed to taking illegal guns out of the hands of prohibited users like Mr. Brown and off our streets,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “In order to keep our communities safe, we must rid them of illegal firearms and those who possess them.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Roanoke City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
Final Two Defendants Sentenced for Roles in Sophisticated Tax SchemeRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – The final two defendants involved in a sophisticated tax conspiracy to defraud the United States government were sentenced last week in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today.
Richard Powers, 68, and Diane Powers, 58, both of Gate City, Virginia, each previously pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States government and one count of filing a false claim. Last week the District Court sentenced Richard Powers to 37 months in federal prison and his wife, Diane Powers, to 27 months in federal prison.
“Protecting the integrity of our tax system is of the utmost importance to the law enforcement community,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “This investigation showed just how serious we take the investigation and prosecution of those who attempt to undermine that system. I am thankful to all of our partner agencies who worked together to dismantle this sophisticated conspiracy.”
The other defendants involved in the conspiracy, who were all related to each other in some manner, have previously been convicted and sentenced for their roles in the scheme on related charges. David Witt, 36, of Jonesville, Virginia, who masterminded the conspiracy while an inmate in a Tennessee State prison, was sentenced to 96 months in Federal Prison. William Ziehler, 38, of Pennington Gap, Virginia, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison. Tommy Witt, 57, of Jonesville, Virginia, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison. In addition, each defendant was ordered to pay the United States $67,356 in restitution, jointly and severally.
According to evidence presented in District Court by Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Jayne, David Witt, his four codefendants (father, mother, uncle, and brother), and others, participated in a sophisticated conspiracy to defraud the federal government. The scheme began when Witt, at the time an inmate in a Tennessee state prison, gathered personally identifiable information (including birth dates and social security numbers) belonging to other inmates, which he then used that information to complete Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 1040s. These Form 1040s contained false information, including false addresses outside of prison and false claims that the inmates were due a tax refund based on wages never earned by those inmates. Subsequently, these Form 1040s were sent to persons outside of the prison who then forwarded the Form 1040s to the IRS for processing. Based on these Form 1040s, the IRS issued tax refund checks in the names of these inmates and sent the checks to addresses associated with Witt’s accomplices in the scheme. Many of these tax refund checks were cashed at banks throughout Southwest Virginia by persons using fraudulent power-of-attorney forms. Return payment was made to Witt and others by use of electronic transfers, such as MoneyGram, and by other means.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and United States Postal Inspection Service. Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Jayne prosecuted the case for the United States.
71-Year-Old Pleads Guilty to Prescription and Heroin Drug Distribution, Witness Tampering, and Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Roanoke man, who used a drug rehabilitation program in the Roanoke City jail to obtain sex partners in exchange for drugs, pled guilty yesterday to federal drug distribution, witness tampering, and health care fraud charges, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick, Jr., announced.
Gordon Reaves Parker, 71, of Roanoke, Virginia, waived his right to be indicted and pled guilty yesterday to an Information charging him with one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, one count of tampering with a witness and one count of health care fraud.
“This defendant used a program designed to help those with horrible drug addictions for his own perverse sexual advances,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “These victims, who were incarcerated, entered a rehabilitation program hoping to beat their addiction and better their lives. Upon release, they were fed drugs and taken advantage of by an entitled individual who believed the rules didn’t apply to him. As today’s conviction clearly shows, the rules apply to everyone equally.”
“These heinous acts committed by a soulless predator are the epitome of why law enforcement professionals do what we do: to protect the rights of everyday people,” DEA Washington Field Division Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Karl C. Colder said today. Innocents who are suffering from the ravages of addiction and do not have a voice of their own. Opioid addiction and overdose deaths have become the single greatest danger to the lives and health of our citizens. DEA’s resolve to confront this epidemic and the criminals, like Mr. Parker, who supply it is unwavering. We will hold accountable those who poison communities and destroy lives. The DEA would like to thank the United States Attorney's Office of the Western District of Virginia and the Virginia State Police in our concerted effort to identify and bring this evil and reckless person to justice.”
According to evidence presented at yesterday’s guilty plea hearing by Assistant United States Attorney Jennie L. M. Waering, Parker discovered the Alpha drug rehabilitation program in the Roanoke County Jail as a mechanism for obtaining sex partners in exchange for drugs. Parker initially met victim HW, then 28, when she was residing at the Roanoke Rescue Mission. Parker offered HW drugs in exchange for sex. HW was subsequently arrested and placed in the Roanoke City Jail in the Alpha drug intervention program. Parker kept in touch with HW by phone and put significant amounts of money in HW’s jail account.
Parker admitted yesterday to asking HW to introduce him to other young, good looking, Alpha drug program inmates who might be released from jail before HW. HW introduced Parker to JM, age 20 at the time. JM, in turn, introduced Parker to BH, age 25 at the time. JM and BH talked to Parker extensively on the telephone from jail. Parker put large amounts of money on the jail accounts of JM and BH. JM and BH subsequently introduced Parker to several other Alpha drug program inmates.
Evidence presented yesterday showed that Parker eventually made contact with at least ten women, between the ages of 18-27, many of whom he met while they were in jail in the Alpha drug program. Parker talked extensively to many of the women on the phone in conversations recorded by the jail and put money on their jail accounts. Parker promised these young women a variety of monetary gifts and promised to pay fines, child support and other expenses. Parker discussed sexual activities with them on the phone, describing what they would do together when they were released. When the women were released from jail, these women visited him at his Wipledale Avenue home and at his Rockbridge Court home, where he offered the women drugs (hydromorphone, oxycodone, morphine, oxymorphone, hydrocodone and heroin) and large monetary gifts in exchange for sex. This activity was repeated with more than ten drug addicted or recovering women and the drugs given to the women were obtained from prescriptions written for his disabled wife by a pain management physician.
In addition, Parker admitted yesterday that he asked a medical technician that cared for his wife and was in charge of distributing her pain medication, to lie to the federal grand jury to account for his use of the stockpiled controlled substances that were prescribed to his wife.
The investigation of the case was initiated by the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation and jointly conducted with the Tactical Diversion Squad of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorneys Jennie L. M. Waering and Charlene R. Day prosecuted the case for the United States.
Roanoke Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking, Methamphetamine, and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Roanoke man, who conspired with others to distribute drugs and engage in sex-trafficking, pled guilty this afternoon, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Brandon Scott Thomas, a.k.a. “Gambino,” age 25, of Roanoke, Virginia, pled guilty to one count of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute at least 50 grams of methamphetamine, two counts of sex trafficking by fraud, force or coercion, one count of conspiring to commit sex trafficking by fraud, force or coercion, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.
“These women were trapped by addiction and the violent nature of a man who preyed upon their vulnerabilities,” United States John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We are proud of the work law enforcement did to bring this defendant to justice and hopefully bring these victims of sex-trafficking to a brighter future.”
“Human trafficking is one of the most heinous crimes we investigate,” said Clark E. Settles, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations’ Washington, D.C. field office. “Traffickers have no regard for human life, and they treat their victims as commodities. In this case, Thomas sold women just like he sold drugs. Today’s guilty plea ensures justice for his victims and makes southwest Virginia a safer place with one less trafficker on the streets.”
According to evidence presented at today’s and previous hearings by Assistant United States Attorneys Donald R. Wolthuis and Laura Day Rottenborn, Thomas conspired with others from at least July 2015 until his arrest in March 2016 to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and other drugs, and he periodically possessed firearms in connection with his drug trafficking.
In addition, Thomas admitted today that he ran a prostitution business involving multiple women that operated out of hotels in Roanoke and Charlottesville. To promote the business, Thomas posted prostitution advertisements on the website, www.backpage.com. Thomas admitted that several of the women who worked for him engaged in prostitution as a result of Thomas’ fraud, force, and/or coercion. Thomas admitted that he prostituted women identified as V1, V3, and V4 in Roanoke and elsewhere in the Western District of Virginia, and admitted that he beat and threatened to beat the women, and took advantage of their drug dependencies, to compel their prostitution services.
Thomas admitted that beginning in September 2015 and continuing through February 2016, he was physically abusive to V4 on a regular basis. He admitted to slapping, punching, and choking her. On at least one occasion, Thomas admitted he held a knife to the throat of V4. On a separate occasion, Thomas used a taser on V4 and also beat V4 while she was pregnant. Many of these actions took place in front of other victims.
The investigation of the case was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Roanoke City Police Department, the Roanoke County Police Department, the Salem Police Department, and the Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Donald R. Wolthuis and Laura Day Rottenborn prosecuted the case for the United States.
Galax Man Indicted on Eights Counts of Child Pornography ProductionRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – A federal grand jury sitting in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon has charged a Galax man with eight counts of producing child pornography, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today.
In an indictment returned yesterday, the grand jury in Abingdon has charged Richard Denny Nofsinger Jr., 37, of Galax, Virginia, with eight counts of production of child pornography. If convicted, each count carries a possible sentence, by statute, of between 15-30 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, the alleged acts took place between December 2015 and May 2016 in the Western District of Virginia, and elsewhere.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the United States Secret Service and the Galax Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jenifer Bockhorst will prosecute the case for the United States.
A Grand Jury Indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendant is entitled to a fair trial with the burden on the government to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Inmate Sentenced for Directing Sophisticated Tax Scheme from State PrisonRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced the sentence today of a Virginia man who, while incarcerated in Tennessee state prison, organized and participated in a scheme to defraud the Internal Revenue Service.
David Witt, 36, of Jonesville, Virginia, pled guilty earlier this year in Federal Court to one count of making false, fictitious or fraudulent claims and one count of conspiring to defraud the United States Government in respect to claims. Last week, Witt was sentenced to 96 months in Federal Prison and three years of supervised release. In addition, Witt was ordered to pay $67,356 in restitution.
A co-defendant in the case, William Ziehler, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison on related charges earlier this month. Tommy Witt, another co-defendant, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for his role in the conspiracy.
“Law enforcement will investigate and prosecute anyone who attempts to undermine the integrity of our tax system,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “This prosecution should serve as an example, if you defraud the United States you will be held accountable.”
According to evidence presented in District Court by Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Jayne, Witt, and others, participated in a sophisticated conspiracy to defraud the federal government. The scheme began when Witt, at the time an inmate in a Tennessee state prison, gathered personally identifiable information (including birth dates and social security numbers) belonging to other inmates, which he then used that information to complete Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 1040s. These Form 1040s contained false information, including false addresses outside of prison and false claims that the inmates were due a tax refund based on wages never earned by those inmates. Subsequently, these Form 1040s were sent to persons outside of the prison who then forwarded the Form 1040s to the IRS for processing. Based on these Form 1040s, the IRS issued tax refund checks in the names of these inmates and sent the checks to addresses associated with Witt’s accomplices in the scheme. Many of these tax refund checks were cashed at banks throughout Southwest Virginia by persons using fraudulent power-of-attorney forms. Return payment was made to Witt and others by use of electronic transfers, such as MoneyGram, and by other means.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and United States Postal Inspection Service. Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Jayne prosecuted the case for the United States.
Three More Conspirators Plead Guilty in Methamphetamine CaseRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – Three more individuals associated with a methamphetamine conspiracy that trafficked large quantities of the drug from Atlanta, Georgia to Southwest Virginia, pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Jeremey Bartley, 27, pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Franklin Dee Rose, 37, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and Donna Jenkins pled guilty to one count of misprision of a felony.
“We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to focus on traffickers like those prosecuted in this case,” United tates Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today.
According to evidence presented at previous hearings by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee, these individuals, and others, were part of a methamphetamine conspiracy that trafficked and distributed multiple pounds of crystal methamphetamine between Atlanta, Georgia, Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
To date, more than ten other individuals have pled guilty to conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine as part of the investigation.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bristol, Virginia Police Department, the Bristol, Tennessee Police Department, the Abingdon Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee prosecuted the case for the United States.
Roanoke County Woman Pleads Guilty to Gun, Heroin ChargesRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Roanoke County woman, who police made multiple controlled purchases of heroin from in 2014 and 2015, pled guilty today to federal drug and gun charges, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Abbey Rae Lawhorn, 33, of Roanoke, Virginia, pled guilty today to one count of possession of heroin with the intent to distribute and one count of possession of a short-barreled rifle that was not registered to her in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
“Illegal guns and drugs make the communities of the Western District of Virginia unsafe and we in law enforcement must do what we can to make our streets safer,” United States Attorney Fishwick said today.
According to evidence presented at today’s hearing by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford, police made controlled purchases of heroin from Lawhorn in December 2014 and April 2015. As a result of these purchases, police obtained a search warrant for Lawhorn’s address in Roanoke County. On May 1, 2015, a search of the residence occupied by Lawhorn and her juvenile daughter was performed and officials found approximately eight bricks of heroin, an amount consistent with distribution. In addition, police discovered three firearms, one of which was a rifle with a barrel less than 16 inches in length. No such firearm was registered to Lawhorn.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Roanoke County Police Department, the Roanoke HIDTA Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
Roanoke Man Pleads Guilty to Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Roanoke, Virginia man, who failed to maintain his registration requirement under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act [SORNA], pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia to related federal charges, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Gerald Dickey, 40, of Roanoke, Va., pled guilty today to one count of failing to register as a previously convicted sex offender.
“Keeping and maintaining an accurate registration, as required by SORNA, is imperative to public safety,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “The requirements set forth in SORNA are not done as a burden to offenders but as a protection for the community, the offender and law enforcement. When those requirements are not met, there will be consequences.”
According to evidence presented at today’s hearing by Assistant United States Attorney, due to a previous convicted of criminal sexual conduct, Dickey was required to register as a sex offender under SORNA. In April 2015, Dickey was arrested by the Roanoke City Police Department on state charges and it was determined that despite the fact he had lived in Virginia for over a year, he had not registered as a sex offender, as required under SORNA.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the United States Marshals Service, the Virginia State Police and the Roanoke City Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Charlene R. Day prosecuted the case for the United States.
Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Commit ArsonRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – A Dundalk, Maryland, man who had been a fugitive for four years before being apprehended in Florida, pled guilty yesterday in Federal Court to conspiring to commit arson, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
William Antonion Parks, 26, pled guilty yesday in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon to one count of conspiring to destroy, by fire, a motor vehicle. On October 9, 2011, Parks and two other men, James Robert Gurganus and Jeremiah D. Lawson, set fire and destroyed a vehicle in Lee County, Virginia. Gurganus and Lawson pled guilty and were sentenced several years ago. Parks fled after the fire and had been at large until his arrest in Florida by agents of the United States Marshal’s Service in March of this year.
“This individual not only put others at risk by committing arson and destroying a motor vehicle, but he also felt he could flee from justice,” Unite States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “I am grateful to our law enforcement partners both here in Virginia and in Florida who continued to search for this defendant and ultimately held him accountable for his criminal actions.”
United States District Judge James P. Jones scheduled sentencing for August 30, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. Parks faces a mandatory sentence of imprisonment for a term of not less than five years and no more than twenty years and a fine of up to $250,000.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Bristol Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Special Assistant United States Attorney Albert Mayer and Assistant United States Attorney Randy Ramseyer prosecuted the case for the United States.
Another Defendant Pleads Guilty in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – Another member of a methamphetamine conspiracy that trafficked large quantities of the drug from Atlanta, Georgia to Southwest Virginia, pled guilty today in the United States District for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Matthew Charles Blevins, 35, pled guilty today to one count of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“In recent years we have seen an increase in the amount of methamphetamine being brought into Southwest Virginia and is devastating our communities,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We will continue to work with our partners, not only in Virginia but throughout the country, to dismantle these large-scale trafficking organizations.”
According to evidence presented at previous hearings by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee, Blevins was part of a methamphetamine conspiracy that trafficked and distributed multiple pounds of crystal methamphetamine between Atlanta, Georgia, Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
To date, more than ten other individuals have pled guilty to conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine as part of the investigation.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bristol, Virginia Police Department, the Bristol, Tennessee Police Department, the Abingdon Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee prosecuted the case for the United States.
Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA – A Virginia man, who conspired with at least one other person to distribute methamphetamine, pled guilty today to a federal drug conspiracy charge, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
David Valencia, 27, of North Garden, Virginia, pled guilty this morning in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Charlottesville to one count of conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Valencia’s co-defendant, Ramon Gabriel Jr., pled guilty last month to similar conspiracy charge.
“Methamphetamine trafficking continues to be a growing threat throughout the Western District of Virginia,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We will continue to work with our partners on the local, state and federal levels to slow the influx of this deadly and addictive substance into our communities.”
At sentencing, Valencia faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $1 million dollars. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Jefferson Area Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Ronald M. Huber prosecuted the case for the United States.
Pair Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – A pair of Southwest Virginia residents pled guilty today in Federal Court to charges related to the manufacturing of methamphetamine, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. and Virginia Attorney General Mark R. Herring announced.
Travis Michael Felty, 34, of Wytheville, Virginia, pled guilty today to one count of conspiring to manufacturing methamphetamine, one count of creating a substantial risk of harm to human life while illegally manufacturing or attempting to manufacture methamphetamine, and one count of manufacturing or attempting to manufacture methamphetamine where a minor resided or was present.
Shanna Ariz Castillo, 31, of Marion, Virginia, pled guilty to one count of conspiring to manufacturing methamphetamine, one count of creating a substantial risk of harm to human life while illegally manufacturing or attempting to manufacture methamphetamine, and one count of manufacturing or attempting to manufacture methamphetamine where a minor resided or was present.
“We must be vigilant in prosecuting individuals that manufacture this highly dangerous and addictive substance, especially where children are present or reside,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to slow the spread of this deadly drug throughout Virginia.”
“In recent years, so many families and communities in Southwest Virginia have been hit hard by addiction and by methamphetamine, in particular,” said Attorney General Herring. “Not only can distribution and use of these dangerous drugs put Virginians at risk, but just manufacturing these drugs is an inherently dangerous process that poses significant risk to the public and the community. My team and I take these cases very seriously and we will continue to work with our federal and local partners to keep Southwest Virginia safe.”
Agencies involved in this investigation included the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Town of Abingdon Police Department, Bristol Virginia Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. 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, prosecuted the case for the United States.
Lynchburg Woman Sentenced on Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced the sentencing of a Lynchburg woman on a variety of fraud charges.
Catherine Pankey, 62, of Lynchburg, Va., who previously pled guilty in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Lynchburg to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and two counts of student loan fraud. Yesterday in District Court, Pankey was sentenced to 24 months in prison and ordered to pay approximately $120,000 in restitution.
“This sentence holds accountable a number of individuals who committed a variety of frauds,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to pursue federal charges in cases involving financial fraud.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by The investigation of the case was conducted by the United States Department of Education- Office of the Inspector General, the United States Secret Service, the Virginia State Police, the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office and the Lynchburg Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer R. Bockhorst will prosecute the case for the United States. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Bockhorst is prosecuting the case for the United States.
Abingdon Woman Sentenced for Failing to Report for Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – An Abingdon woman, who was previously convicted on methamphetamine distribution charges, was sentenced yesterday in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon after she failed to report prison as directed by the United States Bureau of Prison, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Gina Renee Lopez-Orfield, 49, of Abingdon, Virginia, who previously pled guilty to one count of failure to surrender for service of sentence, was sentenced yesterday in District Court to 14 months in federal prison to run consecutive to her previously ordered 78-month period of incarceration.
“Our system of justice runs on the foundation that individuals will follow the instructions given to them by the court,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “When individuals fail to listen to the instructions of the court, they will be held accountable and face additional punishment.”
According to evidence presented at previous hearings by Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Jayne, Lopez-Orfield was convicted in November 2015 of distributing methamphetamine and released on bond. On February 9, 2016 she was sentenced to a term of 78-months’ imprisonment. On February 11, 2016, the defendant was informed by the Bureau of Prisons and the U.S. Marshals Service that she was to begin serving her sentence on March 29, 2016 at noon at Alderson in West Virginia. Lopez-Orfield failed to report to Alderson as ordered by the Court.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the United States Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Johnson County, Tennessee Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Jayne prosecuted the case the case for the United States.
Virginia Couple Sentenced to Prison in Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
LYNCHBURG – Two Bedford, Virginia, residents were sentenced to prison today for criminal offenses arising out of a four-year scheme to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Social Security Administration, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Caroline D. Ciraolo and U.S. Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. of the Western District of Virginia.
Edgar Foxx, 50, and Contina Foxx, 42, were sentenced to prison terms of 41 months and 30 months, respectively, by U.S. District Judge Norman K. Moon of the Western District of Virginia following their convictions by a Lynchburg, Virginia, jury for criminal tax offenses. Judge Moon also ordered the defendants to pay $147,708 in restitution and serve three years of supervised release following their release from prison.
“Our nation’s tax system relies upon citizens to truthfully, accurately and timely report their income to the IRS,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo. “When people like Mr. Foxx fail to file their income tax returns or file false tax returns and fail to pay the taxes they owe, and when individuals like Mrs. Foxx submit false information to government agencies in order to obtain benefits, they take advantage of, and plane an undue burden on, honest taxpayers who pay their fair share. The Justice Department stands ready to prosecute these offenders and hold them accountable for their crimes.”
“Every year, millions of Americans file their taxes and fulfill their civic obligation,” said U.S. Attorney Fishwick. “They must be able to do this knowing the process is safe and reliable. When individuals fail to pay their obligations the entire system suffers. We are proud to work with the Tax Division on holding accountable those who attempt to defraud the tax system.”
“Federal income tax compliance should be equally shared among all Americans,” said Special Agent in Charge Thomas Jankowski for IRS-Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) Washington DC Field Office. “IRS-CI will continue focusing investigative efforts on individuals who contribute to the tax gap and do not comply with the law. Today’s sentencing is a reminder that there are detrimental consequences for this type of criminal behavior.”
Edgar and Contina Foxx were convicted on Nov. 6, 2015, following a four-day trial before Judge Moon. Edgar Foxx was convicted of filing a false 2008 income tax return, failing to file his 2009 through 2011 tax returns and theft of government money. Contina Foxx was also convicted of theft of government money as well as providing a false statement for health care benefits. According to evidence introduced at trial and witness testimony, the Foxxes, who are married to one another, owned and operated a metal recycling business between 2008 and 2012. They gathered scrap metal materials including junk cars and old appliances and sold them to recycling facilities in Southwest Virginia and Tennessee. During the 2008 through 2011 time period, the Foxxes received over $500,000 in payments from several metal recycling companies, and failed to report any of this income on their 2008 through 2011 individual income tax returns. At the same time, Contina Foxx provided false information to the Social Security Administration by failing to disclose the income earned from the metal recycling business. As a result, the Foxxes unlawfully received approximately $80,000 in Medicaid benefits between 2010 and 2012.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo and U.S. Attorney Giorno commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Office of Inspector General for the Social Security Administration, the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, the Bedford Department of Social Services and the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office, who investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick Hogeboom and Charlene Day of the Western District of Virginia and Trial Attorney Joseph M. Giannullo of the Tax Division, who prosecuted the case.
Two More Plead Guilty in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today that two more men involved in a conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine have pled guilty in the United States District Court the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke.
Brian Lee Boles, 26, pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. In a separate hearing, Robert Allen Jolliffe, 34, of Marion, Virginia, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a measurable quantity of methamphetamine.
“Methamphetamine addiction is destroying communities all over Southwest Virginia and we must continue to be vigilant in prosecuting those who deal in this highly addictive substance,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Virginia State Police, the Wythe County Sheriff’s Office, the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
Truck Company Owner, Company Plead Guilty to Violating Mine Safety and Health ActWill Pay $375,000 in Fines and PenaltiesRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – A Big Stone Gap coal trucking company and its owner pled guilty today in Federal Court to violating the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act by providing advance notice of safety inspections, and other violations, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Hillis Bresee, 63, of Big Stone Gap, pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon to one count of aiding and abetting the willful violation of the mandatory mine safety health or safety standard by providing advance notice of safety inspections. The maximum statutory penalty faced by the defendant is up to one year in prison and/or a fine of up to $250,000.
Bresee Trucking also pled guilty today to one count of aiding and abetting the willful violation of the mandatory mine safety health or safety standard by providing advance notice of inspections and one count of willfully violating mine safety health or safety standards.
In conjunction with the plea agreements, Bresee Trucking entered into a civil settlement with the United States Department of Labor. As part of the plea agreement and civil settlement, Bresee Trucking and Hillis Bresee agreed to pay $300,000 in civil penalties, a total of $70,000 in restitution to two former employees of the company, and fines of $5,000.
“Congress enacted the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act to protect our miners. Those who work in this dangerous profession must know their employers will be held to these high safety standards and that when they ignore those rules they will be held accountable,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today.
“This plea agreement and civil settlement demonstrate that the Departments of Labor and Justice continue to work together to help ensure that every miner can go home to his or her family at the end of their shift,” said Joseph A. Main, assistant secretary of labor for mine safety and health.
Willis Bresee and Bresee Trucking, violated the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act, in approximately February 2012, by giving advance notice of safety inspections and failing to ensure adequate inspections of coal haul tractor trailers, including to the braking systems.
United States Magistrate Judge Pamela Meade Sargent accepted the guilty plea and scheduled a sentencing hearing for August 15, 2016 at 10:30 a.m.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Norton Office of the Mine Safety and Health Administration. Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin L. Jayne prosecuted the criminal case for the United States. The civil proceedings were handled by J. Matthew McCracken of the United States Department of Labor, Office of the Solicitor.
Raven, Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography, Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – A Virginia man, who admitted to viewing depictions of child pornography and to possessing an illegal firearm, pled guilty to related charges in Federal Court, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today.
Tony Michael Spencer, 42, of Raven, Virginia, pled guilty today to one count of receiving a depiction of a minor engaged in sexual explicit conduct and one count of possessing a short barreled shotgun.
“Protecting our children from predators who wish to exploit them is the most important thing we in law enforcement can do,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “Technology is evolving at speeds that are difficult to keep up with, but we must be vigilant in talking to our children and keeping them safe online and knowing who they are spending their time with, both online and in person.”
“Children should be cared for and nurtured, not victimized and exploited. The FBI will continue to use investigative resources available to them to identify and hold accountable those who prey on these innocent victims,” said Adam S. Lee, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division.
According to evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee, after obtaining information that Spencer was part of a group of individuals utilizing a website on the internet to distribute child pornography, the Federal Bureau of Investigation executed a search warrant on Spencer’s residence on August 6, 2015. At the time of the search warrant, Spencer admitted to viewing child pornography on the website and FBI agents also located an unregistered sawed-off shotgun in the residence.
To date, the FBI’s examination of Spencer’s computers seized at the time of the search has located more than 300,000 images of child pornography.
The investigation of the case was conducted by Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee prosecuted the case for the United States.
Roanoke Man Sentenced on Immigration ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Mexican citizen, who most recently resided in Roanoke, Virginia, was sentenced today on a federal immigration charge after pleading guilty to illegally reentry, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Eliseo Jimenez-Hernandez, also known as “Prisiliano Jimenez Basilio” pleaded guilty in February 2016 to one count of illegal reentry by a previously deported alien. Today in District Court, Jimenez-Hernandez was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of ten months. He is subject to deportation following his release.
“We will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to enforce the immigration laws of the United States,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “When individuals do not follow those laws, they will be held accountable.”
According to evidence presented at previous hearings by Special Assistant United States Attorney Kari Munro, Jimenez-Hernandez was arrested in Roanoke, Virginia on March 21, 2015 and charged with his fourth DUI in ten years. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) encountered the defendant in connection with his state charges, confirming at that time that he had illegally entered the United States twice previously, in 2009 and 2012. Jimenez-Hernandez had not obtained consent to enter the United States prior to his most recent reentry and is barred from the entering the United States for a number of years in connection with his conviction and sentence today.
Investigation of this case was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Special Assistant United States Attorney Kari Munro prosecuted the case for the United States.
Roanoke Woman Sentenced on Heroin ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today the sentenced of a Roanoke woman who previously pled guilty to a federal drug charge.
Camilla Bridget Ward, 25, of Roanoke, Va., previously pled guilty United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke to one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin. Today in District Court, Ward was sentenced to 35 months in federal prison.
“The use of heroin has destroyed communities throughout the Western District of Virginia,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick said today. “We will work with our law enforcement partners to continue to be vigilant in doing what we can to take those who distribute this substance off the streets and provide support to those seeking help for their addiction.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Roanoke City Police Department and officials with the Baltimore/Washington HIDTA. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
Roanoke Man Sentenced on Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today the sentence of a Roanoke man who previously pled guilty to a federal methamphetamine charge.
Derek Ryan McGhee, 38, of Roanoke, Va. previously pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Today in District Court, McGhee was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison.
“Methamphetamine is a drug that has ravaged parts of Southwest Virginia for years. The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to identify and prosecute those individuals who distribute this dangerous substance,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We hope today’s sentence sends a clear message to those who prey on the addiction of others by distributing this dangerous drug.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and the Virginia State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
Lynchburg Man Sentenced for Failing to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA – A Lynchburg man, who previously pled guilty to failing to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act [SORNA], was sentenced today in Federal Court after he failed to keep his registration up-to-date, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today.
Darren Andrew Beauregard, 50, of Lynchburg, Virginia, previously pled guilty in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Lynchburg to one count of failure to register as a sex offender as required under SORNA. Today in District Court, Beauregard was sentenced to 18 months in Federal prison and five years of supervised release thereafter.
“The Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act is an important tool for law enforcement in regards to keep our communities safe,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “When individuals fail to comply with the requirements placed on them by SORNA, we will work with our law enforcement partners to prosecute them.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the United States Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorney Ashley B. Neese prosecuted the case for the United States.
Citizen of Mexico Pleads Guilty to Immigration ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today the guilty plea of a Mexican citizen for violating the immigration laws of the United States.
Aureliano Valentin-Concepcion, a.k.a. “Jose Ramerez-Monteicia,” 36, of Mexico, pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke to one count of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed.
“We will continue to enforce the immigration laws of the United States and remove those individuals who repeatedly break those laws,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today.
According to evidence presented at today’s guilty plea hearing by Assistant United States Attorney C. Patrick Hogeboom III, Valentin-Concepcion has been removed from the United States three times previously, most recently on August 23, 2000 from El Paso, Texas.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant United States Attorney C. Patrick Hogeboom III prosecuted the case for the United States.
Former Town Manager Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – The former town manager of the Town of Coeburn, who admitted to applying for and receiving credit in the town’s name, pled guilty earlier this week in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon, announced United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr.
Loretta Ilene Mullins Mays, 48, of Coeburn, Virginia, waived her right to indictment and pled guilty earlier this week to a one count Information charging her with bank fraud. In addition to restitution to be paid to the credit card companies, Mays agreed to pay $20,313 in restitution to the Town of Coeburn.
“This defendant was trusted by the Town of Coeburn to serve with integrity and instead used her position to enrich herself,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “When public officials abuse the power placed in them the citizens it is imperative we hold them accountable.”
Mays was the Town Manager for the Town of Coeburn, Virginia from March 27, 2006 to February 14, 2013.
On April 24, 2006, Mays fraudulently applied for a Bank of America Business Visa credit card in the name of the Town of Coeburn when, in fact, Mays had no intent to use the card for Town of Coeburn business. To keep her fraudulent activity hidden from town employees and Bank of America, Mays did not use the Town’s address on the application, but instead used her own address. After receiving the card, Mays used the card to obtain a $10,000 cash advance on the card and subsequently used the card for personal expenses resulting in a total of more than $30,000 in fraudulent cash advances and purchases.
Mays admitted earlier this week to obtaining two additional Bank of America credits cards in the name of the Town of Coeburn that she used for personal expenses, as well as a BB&T credit card in the name of the Town of Coeburn that was also used for personal expenses. In total, Mays fraudulently received over $60,000 in cash advances and purchases.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Virginia State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance provided by the Dickenson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Randy Ramseyer prosecuted the case for the United States.
Williamsburg Man Sentenced on Employment Tax Fraud ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Williamsburg man, who was convicted in October 2015 of conspiring to defraud the United States of more than $3 million of employment taxes, was sentenced last week in the United States District court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Vladimir Maglnik, 52, of Williamsburg, Virginia, was found guilty in October 2015 of one count of conspiring to defraud the United States and conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens for commercial advantage or private financial gain. Last Week in District Court, Maglnik was sentenced to 20 months in federal prison and ordered to pay a fine of $7,500.
“This defendant used the hard work of migrant workers to line his own pockets with millions of dollars in ill-gotten riches,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “Many of his victims were forced to live in squalor and pay rent, afraid to contact law enforcement, while Maglnik defraud the United States government. We are glad his strong of deceit has been exposed and justice has been served.”
According to evidence presented at previous hearings by Assistant United States Attorney C. Patrick Hogeboom, from at least 2002 continuing through 2007, Maglnik and Makera Galustyants owned North American Management (NAM), a company that contracted labor service contracts with hotels, primarily in Florida, Virginia and Louisiana. NAM agreed to provide temporary employees to perform housekeeping services, would be responsible for hiring and paying all temporary workers as well as complying with all federal regulations, including the deduction and payment of employment taxes from the temporary workers’ wages. The hotels were also assured that the temporary workers held legitimate work permits and were eligible to work in the United States.
However, according to evidence presented in court, NAM routinely violated the terms of the contract and failed to pay employment taxes to the United States Treasury on any of the temporary works employed by NAM. All told, the conspirators pocketed $3,082,097 in unpaid employment taxes.
The investigation of the case was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, the Department of Labor and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney C. Patrick Hogeboom III prosecuted the case for the United States.
Scottsville Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA – A Scottsville man pled guilty today to a drug trafficking charge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Lynchburg, announced United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr.
Jermaine Ayers, 35, of Scottsville, Virginia, pled guilty today to one count of possessing with the intent to distribute and distributing crack cocaine.
“We will continue to be vigilant in working with our partners in law enforcement to rid our communities of illegal drugs,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “Keeping our communities free from abusive drugs is paramount to improving community safety.”
Ayers faces a maximum statutory penalty of up to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $1 million. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Kavanaugh prosecuted the case for the United States.
Virginia Men Sentenced for MisbrandingRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – Two of ten defendants convicted as being part of a drug conspiracy that operated in Southwest Virginia were sentenced today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today.
Cecil McConnell III, 44, of Coeburn, Va., previously pled guilty to one count of misbranding a drug. Today in District Court, McConnell III was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison.
Cecil McConnell Jr., 69, of Dungannon, Va., was convicted following a jury trial of one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, three counts of distributing a controlled substance and one count of misbranding a drug. Today in District Court, McConnell Jr. was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison.
“These defendants, and others, distributed dangerous substances,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “This case shows that the United States Attorney’s Office will work with our law enforcement partners to seek justice even in the most difficult of cases.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Virginia State Police, the Southwest Virginia Drug Task Force in Big Stone Gap, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Alachua County, Florida, Sheriff’s Office, the Wise County Sheriff’s Office and the Scott County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Lee is prosecuting the case for the United States.
Sandra Marks Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud, Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA – The former owner of a fortune teller business on Seminole Trail in Charlottesville pled guilty today in Federal court to committing mail fraud and laundering more than $1 million in money stolen from her victims, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today.
Sandra Stevenson Marks, a.k.a. “Catherine Marks,” 42, of Charlottesville, Va., pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Charlottesville to one count of mail fraud and one count of money laundering. In addition, the plea agreement signed today in District Court calls for Marks to repay at least $1.2 million in restitution to the victims of the defendant’s scheme.
“Ms. Marks took advantage of people who trusted her during some of the lowest points of their lives,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “Greed drove this defendant to break federal law and steal over $1 million from her victims. We are grateful to those who investigated this case and helped begin the process of making these victims whole again.”
“A fortune teller cons clients out of more than one million dollars, then launders the proceeds and commits mail fraud. This sounds like the plotline for a Hollywood movie. Unfortunately, for Ms. Marks’ victims, this was reality,” said Clark E. Settles, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C. “I hope everyone appreciates, as much as I do, the HSI special agents who worked alongside our federal partners and the Albemarle County Police Department to investigate Marks and provide relief to the victims in the form of $1.2 million in restitution.”
According to evidence presented today, and at previous hearings by Assistant United States Attorney Ronald M. Huber, Marks, and her husband, Donnie Marks, operated the business, “Readings by Catherine” on Seminole Trail in Charlottesville, which offered services such as palm readings, candle readings, tarot card readings, astrological readings and spiritual readings to clients.
Marks admitted today, through a statement of facts submitted to the court and signed by the defendant, that she enriched herself by telling her clients she was clairvoyant and able to see into the past and the future. Marks also said she told her clients she had a “gift from God” and was able to communicate with spirits and guides from God, including the “Prince of Illusion,” who relayed information to her about clients.
Marks further admitted that she would tell clients that she had learned from the spirits and guides that the client, and/or the client’s family, was suffering from a “curse” and a “dark cloud” that occurred in the past. Marks would tell clients they would need to make a sacrifice of large amounts of money and valuables, whereby she would bury the money and items in a box to be “cleansed.” Marks explained to her clients that the money and property would be returned once the “work” was complete. Additionally, Marks would tell the clients that the money and property would not be used for Marks’ own personal benefit.
Contrary to her representations to clients, Marks kept and used money and other valuables provided by her clients for her own personal use and enjoyment and that of her husband. When Marks had used all of her client’s money, Marks would find new clients to fund the scheme, or tell old clients that additional money was required to continue her “work.”
At sentencing, Marks faces a maximum possible penalty of up to 20 years in federal prison on both the mail fraud count and money laundering count. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation of the case was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Secret Service, the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, the Albemarle County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and the Albemarle County Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Ronald M. Huber prosecuted the case for the United States.
North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA – A North Carolina man pled guilty today to a federal drug conspiracy charge, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Ramon Gabriel Jr. of North Carolina pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Charlottesville to one count of conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“Methamphetamine trafficking continues to be a growing threat throughout the Western District of Virginia,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We will continue to work with our partners on the local, state and federal levels to slow the influx of this deadly and addictive substance into our communities.”
At sentencing, Gabriel faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $1 million dollars. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Jefferson Area Drug Enforcement Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Ronald M. Huber prosecuted the case for the United States.
Final Defendant Pleads Guilty to Armed Robberies, Killing of Store ClerkRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – The last of three individuals who went on an armed robbery spree that ended with the killing of a store clerk in Mr. Airy, North Carolina in 2012, pled guilty today in federal court to a number of charges that carry the potential for a life sentence, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today.
Joshua Robert Berry, 32, of Bluewell, Virginia, pled guilty today to two counts of armed robbery, two counts of brandishing a firearm during those armed robberies, one count of conspiring to commit armed robbery and one count of using a firearm in the commission of an armed robbery that resulted in the death of another person.
Last week, two others involved in the crime spree, Emmanuel William Foster, 27, of Bluewell, Virginia, pled guilty to two counts of armed robbery, two counts of brandishing a firearm during those armed robberies, one count of conspiring to commit armed robbery and one count of using a firearm in the commission of an armed robbery that resulted in the death of another person. Sarah Looney Berry, 28, of Bluewell, Virginia, pled guilty last week to one count of conspiring to commit armed robbery and one count of using a firearm in the commission of an armed robbery that resulted in the death of another person.
“These individuals took part in a crime spree that ultimately robbed a man of his life,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “For nearly a month, a community was terrorized as these defendants committed armed robbery after armed robbery. Justice has been served today and I am thankful to the brave men and women who investigated this case and ultimately put an end to this group’s actions.”
According to evidence presented at previous hearings by First Assistant United States Attorney Anthony P. Giorno and Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee, Joshua Beery, Foster, and Sarah Berry, conspired to commit a series of armed robberies in Virginia, West Virginia and North Carolina from April 2012 through May 2012.
Berry admitted today that on April 29, 2012, he and Foster robbed the Marquee Cinema in Wytheville, Virginia. Both men carried firearms during the robbery and were wearing black hoodies with bandanas covering their faces. Berry said they entered the business with their weapons drawn and ordered the manager to empty the registers. When they were told there was no money in the registers, Joshua Berry and Foster took the manager, and another employee, into a back room and told them to open a safe. As the manager was having trouble opening the safe, Foster put his handgun to the manager’s head and threatened to kill him if the other employee did not get the safe open. The manager was able to open the safe, which contained $4,317. Video from a nearby Wal-Mart showed a dark colored, four-door sedan, matching a vehicle commonly operated, at that time, by Sarah Berry, waiting in the parking lot behind the theater. Sarah Berry admitted last week in federal court to driving Joshua Berry and Foster away from the robbery in the sedan.
Joshua Berry also admitted today that on May 21, 2012 he and Foster robbed the Abingdon Cinemall. The two men once again entered the business wearing black hoodies, but this time wore full-face masks and sunglasses and once again had guns drawn. When the manager observed the men entering the business, she ran to her office, one of the men saw her and chased her. Foster and Joshua Berry robbed the cash registers of the business and left with approximately $200 in cash. Video surveillance from Abingdon High School, which is located nearby, showed a pick-up truck waiting behind the business with its lights on during the robbery. Sarah Berry admitted last week to using her father’s pick-up truck during the robbery to drive Foster and Joshua Berry away from the scene.
On May 25, 2012, at approximately 11:50 p.m., Joshua Berry and Foster entered Eddie’s Zip Foods in Mt. Airy, North Carolina. The store owner, Donald Arnder, and his employee, Gerardo Rojas, were reviewing the days’ receipts and getting ready to close the store at midnight. The two men entered the store with Joshua Berry carrying a rifle and Foster carrying a handgun. Joshua Berry admitted today that he and Foster entered the store and that Foster and Arnder, who had a .38 caliber revolver, exchanged gunfire. Foster shot Arnder twice with a .9 mm handgun, once in the arm and once in the abdomen. Arnder died at the scene. During the exchange, Foster was shot once. After Joshua Berry carried Foster to Sarah Berry’s waiting car, the two brought Foster to a nearby residence and tried to remove the bullet themselves. When they could not get the bullet out, they took Foster to a hospital in Bland, Virginia for treatment. Foster was eventually transferred to a trauma center in Roanoke, Virginia for treatment.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Mt. Airy, North Carolina, Police Department, the Abingdon Police Department, the Wytheville Police Department and the Bluefield, West Virginia Police Department. First Assistant United States Attorney Anthony P. Giorno and Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee prosecuted the case for the United States.
Danville Man Sentenced for Manufacturing and Distributing Illegal Dietary SupplementsRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – A Danville business owner, who manufactured and shipped illegal pro-hormones, designer steroids, throughout the United States, was sentenced today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon.
Steven Donald Wood, 38, of Danville, Va., previously waived his right to be indicted and pled guilty to a one count Information charging him with illegally distributing misbranded drugs in interstate commerce. United States District Judge James P. Jones granted the United States’ motion for a reduced sentence based on Wood’s extraordinary assistance in the investigation and prosecution of others and sentenced Wood to probation for a term of one year. Judge Jones also ordered Wood to forfeit $1.5 million which had been paid prior to Wood pleading guilty and pay a fine of $10,000. Since soon after his arrest in 2011, Wood has provided extensive cooperation in the United States’ investigation and prosecution of others in the pro-hormone business.
“The misbranding of drugs is a serious offense that puts those who ingest these substances in danger,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “I am grateful to our law enforcement partners who continue to investigate the misbranding of these powerful steroids.”
“Dietary supplements that contain active pharmaceutical ingredients not approved by FDA present a serious health risk to those who take them,” said Mark S. McCormack, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigation’s Metro Washington Field Office. “Our office will continue our vigilance and work to remove these dangerous drugs from the U.S. marketplace.”
Wood, through his business entities Competitive Edge Labs, LLC, and MKZ Exports, LLC, caused the manufacture and distribution of large amounts of dietary supplements, specifically “pro-hormones,” a new generation of steroids not specifically listed as an anabolic steroid under the Controlled Substances Act. Wood obtained his raw powder from Xinli “Eric” Li, a Chinese national, who pleaded guilty in federal court in Abingdon on December 4, 2015. Li forfeited $1.6 million and served five months in prison prior to being deported to China.
The dietary supplements were M-Drol and H-Drol. M-Drol listed its single active ingredient as 2a, 17a di methyl etiocholan 3-one, 17b-ol, a chemical nomenclature for methasterone, also known as “Superdrol.” In 2011, the FDA identified methasterone as a “designer steroid” or “designer drug”, a structural or functional analog of a controlled substance designed to mimic the pharmacological effects of the original drug. H-Drol listed its single active ingredient as 4-chloro-17a-methyl-androst-1,4-diene-3-17b-diol, the nomenclature for a designer drug identified as halovar, a clone of halodrol. Both products were deemed to be misbranded drugs because the label was false, that is, the product was labeled as a “dietary supplement” but contained a “steroid” or drug. Therefore, neither product met the definition of a dietary supplement. Both products were popular among those seeking an increase in muscle mass and loss of body fat and were distributed widely in the U.S. and overseas, both at retail stores and via the internet. The use of anabolic steroids or dietary supplements that contain anabolic steroids or designer steroids may trigger numerous adverse health effects in the human body.
The investigation, known as Operation Grasshopper, continues into others in the United States who illegally manufactured pro-hormones. Additional charges are anticipated.
The investigation is being conducted by the United States Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations. The Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office and Pittsylvania County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office provided assistance in the case. Assistant United States Attorney Randy Ramseyer and Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Jayne are prosecuting the case for the United States.
Two Additional Members of Drug Conspiracy Plead GuiltyRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – Two more members of a drug conspiracy that trafficked methamphetamine into Southwest Virginia pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Ralph Marlow, 59, of La Follatte, Tennessee, pled guilty today in District Court to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Lloyd Steven Knuckles, 42, of Middlesborough, Kentucky, pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“These defendants, and others involved in this conspiracy, were involved in the trafficking of crystal methamphetamine, a very addictive and dangerous form of an already dangerous substance,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “The success of this investigation can be credited to the cooperative work displayed by authorities on the local, state and federal level.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Bell County, Kentucky Sheriff’s Office, the Middlesborough, Kentucky Police Department, the Lee County Virginia Sheriff’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Bristol and Atlanta Field Divisions. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee prosecuted the case for the United States.
Pennsylvania Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Pennsylvania man pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke to Federal heroin charges, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Orlando Sanchez, 29, of Reading, Pennsylvania, pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
“All across the Commonwealth, we see the crisis of heroin abuse spreading at alarming rates,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We will continue to work to prosecute those who trafficking in this dangerous drug while also providing support for prevention and treatment programs for those addicted to this deadly substance.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Town of Vinton Police Department, the Roanoke City Police Department and the Roanoke County Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
North Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A North Carolina man pled guilty this morning in United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke to conspiring, with others, to distributing methamphetamine throughout the Western District of Virginia, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Michael Allen Kerns, 23, of Clemmons, North Carolina, pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
“Law enforcement continues to effectively respond to the rising tide of methamphetamine abuse in the Western District of Virginia,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “This is a dangerous drug that destroys lives and we are proud to work with our local, state and federal partners to rid it from our communities.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Virginia State Police, the Wythe County Sheriff’s Office, the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
Another Member of Methamphetamine Conspiracy Pleads guiltyRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – Another member of a conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine in and around Virginia and Kentucky pled guilty yesterday in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon, John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Robert Holman, 34, pled guilty yesterday to one count of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine.
“Methamphetamine is highly addictive and often leads to other crimes, such as property crime, violence and domestic abuse,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We are proud to work with our partners on the local, state and federal levels to fight the scourge of trafficking throughout our region.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Bell County, Kentucky Sheriff’s Office, the Middlesborough, Kentucky Police Department, the Lee County Virginia Sheriff’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Bristol and Atlanta Field Divisions. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee prosecuted the case for the United States.
Tennessee Man Sentenced for Role in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Tennessee man, who previously pled guilty to being part of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, was sentenced today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Jesus Silverstre Santos Jr., 26, of McMinnville, Tennessee, previously pled guilty to one count of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Today in District Court, Santos was sentenced to 49 months in federal prison.
“We will continue to prosecute individuals who distribute these types of addictive and dangerous substances in our communities,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today.
According to evidence presented at previous hearings by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley B. Neese, Santos, and other members of the conspiracy, traveled from Tennessee to the West Coast for the sole purpose of picking up methamphetamine to transport it back to Southwest Virginia to be distributed in Virginia, Tennessee and the surrounding areas.
The investigation of the case was conducted by, the Department of Homeland Security, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Virginia State Police, the Wythe County Sheriff’s Office, the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, the Town of Pulaski Police Department, the Town of Dublin Police Department and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Ashley B. Neese prosecuted the case for the United States.
Florida Woman Sentenced for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Florida woman, who billed Medicaid for services she did not provide while living and working in the New River Valley, was sentenced today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke on healthcare fraud charges, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. and Virginia Attorney General Mark R. Herring announced today.
Jennifer Ashlee Zenitz Engorn, 28, of Miami, Florida, who previously pled guilty to one count of healthcare fraud, was sentenced today to two years of probation, a fine of $1,100 and a $100 special assessment. Engorn was also ordered to pay $8,352 in restitution to the Department of Medical Assistance Services.
“Healthcare fraud cannot and will not be tolerated,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “Our diminishing health care dollars must be used wisely and legally. Those who break the law and steal money from these important programs will be held accountable. We are proud to work with the professional investigators in the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit to protect these important programs.”
According to evidence presented at previous hearings by Assistant United States Attorney Jennie L.M. Waering, Engorn was employed to provide mental health skill building services to low income patients served by Medicaid. However, Engorn did not provide these services and provided false documentation to her employer causing the billing of Medicaid for the services that were not rendered.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Virginia Office of the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jennie L.M. Waering and Assistant Attorney General and Special Assistant United States Attorney Vaso T. Doubles prosecuted the case for the United States.
Bristol Man Sentenced for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – A previously convicted sex offender, who moved from Georgia to Virginia without properly fulfilling the registration requirements for sex offenders, was sentenced today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Abingdon after previously pleading guilty.
Scott Stewart Cammorto, 36, of Bristol, Va., pled guilty in December 2015 to one count of knowingly failing to register as sex offender. Today in District Court, Cammorto was sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by 8 years’ supervised release.
“The registration and monitoring of sex offenders is an important tool for protecting the community and keeping our citizens safe,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “When individuals fail to fulfill their requirements under the rules of that ystem they must be held accountable.”
According to evidence presented by Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Jayne, in 1999 Cammorto was convicted in Georgia of rape and related offenses which required him to register as a sex offender. Upon his release from prison in 2013, Cammorto registered as a sex offender in Georgia. But in January 2014, Cammorto moved without updating his sex offender registration or otherwise notifying Georgia authorities. Georgia issued a warrant for his arrest.
In April 2015, Cammorto and his then-girlfriend moved from Georgia to Bristol, Virginia and established residency there. Again, Cammorto did not update his sex offender registration in Georgia and did not register as a sex offender in Virginia. Cammorto was arrested by Bristol, Virginia authorities in May 2015 after Cammorto was involved in a domestic dispute.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the United States Marshals Service. Special Assistant United States Attorney Kevin L. Jayne prosecuted the case for the United States.
Another Defendant Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – The third member of a conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine in the Western District of Virginia pled guilty yesterday in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick announced today.
Sandra Gail Rymer, 35, of Dallas, Georgia pled guilty yesterday in District Court to one count of conspiring to distribute 50 grams of a mixture containing methamphetamine.
“Members of this conspiracy contributed to the growing threat of methamphetamine abuse throughout Southwest Virginia,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We will continue to be vigilant in working with our partners in law enforcement to combat this growing threat.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Virginia State Police, the Wythe County Sheriff’s Office, the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
Second Defendant Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – The second member of a conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine in the Western District of Virginia pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick announced today.
Timothy Scott Anderson, 50, of Wytheville, Virginia, pled guilty today in District Court to one count of conspiring to distribute more than 500 grams of a mixture containing methamphetamine.
“The scourge of methamphetamine abuse continues to ravage communities throughout Southwest Virginia,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We will continue to be vigilant in working with our partners in law enforcement to combat this growing threat.”
At sentencing, Anderson faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a maximum statutory sentence of life in prison. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Virginia State Police, the Wythe County Sheriff’s Office, the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
Pair Pleads Guilty to Cocaine, Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
DANVILLE, VIRGINIA – Two men, who were part of a conspiracy to distribute cocaine, pled guilty yesterday in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Danville to Federal drug charges, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced today.
Osman Roverto Leiva Castellanos, 33, a citizen of Honduras and Virginio Aguirre Jimenez, a citizen of Mexico, each pled guilty yesterday in separate hearings to one count of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
“Trafficking in illegal drugs is a serious offense that we will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to take action against,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We will work to put those who distribute these addictive substances in prison and provide support for those in need of treatment and prevention services.”
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Danville Police Department, the Eden, North Carolina Police Department and the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Ashley B. Neese prosecuted the case for the United States.
Galax Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Galax man pled guilty today to Federal drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Sylvester Monroe Jackson, 42, of Galax, Virginia, pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke to one count of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
“Methamphetamine continues to be a priority for law enforcement throughout Virginia,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “We will continue to do all we can to get this dangerous drug out of our communities.”
At sentencing, Jackson faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum statutory sentence of life in prison. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Virginia State Police, the Galax Police Department, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, the Grayson County Sheriff’s Office and the Wythe County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Ashley B. Neese prosecuted the case for the United States.
Marion Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A Marion, Virginia man, who conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine, pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke to Federal drug trafficking charges, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick announced today.
Jason Dee Howell, 36, of Marion, Virginia, pled guilty today to one count of conspiring to distribute more than 500 grams of a mixture containing methamphetamine.
“Methamphetamine continues to be a growing threat throughout the Western District of Virginia,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. We will continue to work with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to combat the rising tide of methamphetamine abuse in our communities.”
At sentencing, Howell, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a maximum statutory sentence of life in prison. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Virginia State Police, the Wythe County Sheriff’s Office, the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Bassford prosecuted the case for the United States.
Citizen of Honduras Pleads Guilty to Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – A citizen of Honduras, who has been removed from the United States or voluntarily returned to Mexico at least five times, pled guilty today in Federal Court for the illegally reentering the United States after previously being deported, United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. announced.
Elmer Navarro-Navarro, 37, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia in Roanoke to one count of reentering the United States after being previously being removed due to a conviction for an aggravated felony.
“We will continue to work with our partners to enforcement our immigration laws,” United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. said today. “Ensuring that those who have been justly removed from the United States do not return is paramount to keeping our country safe.”
According to evidence presented at today’s hearing by Assistant United States Attorney C. Patrick Hogeboom III, Navarro-Navarro came to the attention of Immigration and Customs Enforcement after being arrested for malicious wounding in Roanoke City. Navarro-Navarro has been removed from the United States, or has voluntarily returned to Mexico in November 1996, February 9, 1998, February 13, 1998, April 1999 and April 2005 after serving a sentenced related to an illegal reentry conviction.
The investigation of the case was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Roanoke City Police and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney C. Patrick Hogeboom III prosecuted the case for the United States.