District of Vermont
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Middlebury Man Faces Federal Drug Charge After Rutland ArrestRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced today that Sami Hayyat, 47, of Middlebury, Vermont, was arrested on Wednesday evening and charged yesterday by criminal complaint. Hayyat was charged with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and cocaine base on September 28, 2022. Hayyat is scheduled to appear before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle this afternoon.
According to court records, the Middlebury Police Department initiated a drug trafficking investigation of Hayyat earlier this month. Middlebury Police coordinated with Homeland Security Investigations to assist with the investigation. On the afternoon of September 28, 2022, Hayyat was located driving in Rutland, Vermont by a Rutland City Police Officer. During a subsequent traffic stop, the officer observed that Hayyat was operating the vehicle without the mandated interlock device as required by Hayyat’s restricted driver’s license. Hayyat was arrested for this violation and, based on additional information provided by Middlebury Police, Hayyat’s vehicle was searched by federal agents. The search revealed approximately 279 baggies of suspected fentanyl, approximately 4 grams of suspected cocaine, and approximately 43 grams of suspected cocaine base. Agents also seized from Hayyat’s vehicle drug packaging, a digital scale, a single round of ammunition, and a firearm holster.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a criminal complaint contains allegations only and that Hayyat is presumed innocent until and unless convicted of a crime.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the coordinated investigatory efforts of the Middlebury Police Department, the Rutland City Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Ophardt. Hayyat is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn
Brooklyn Man Sentenced for Distributing Cocaine BaseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on September 23, 2022, Tyrish Stevenson, 48, of Brooklyn, New York, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss to 37 months’ imprisonment and a 3-year term of supervised release for distributing cocaine base on September 9, 2021.
According to court records, throughout August and September 2021, investigators with the Burlington Police Department, with the assistance of members of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Burlington Resident Office, conducted multiple controlled purchases of narcotics from traffickers who were working together in Burlington, Vermont.
As part of this investigation, on September 9, 2021, a confidential informant purchased cocaine base from Stevenson in downtown Burlington. On September 23, 2021, investigators apprehended multiple traffickers involved in drug distribution, including Stevenson, who admitted to possessing with intent to distribute over 16 grams of cocaine base found nearby at the time of Stevenson’s arrest. That day, investigators also executed a search warrant at a Church Street residence in downtown Burlington. Within the Church Street residence, investigators recovered over 40 grams of cocaine base and over 18 grams of fentanyl, which Stevenson, with others, admitted to possessing with intent to distribute. Investigators also recovered a Mossberg .410 pump shotgun and a Savage Arms .22 Long Rifle from the Church Street residence.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the Burlington Police Department as well as the Drug Enforcement Administration, Burlington Resident Office, in the investigation and prosecution of Stevenson.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Gilman. Stevenson was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth, Esq.
U.S. Attorney, Vermont Attorney General, and Rutland Area NAACP to Co-Host Hate-Free Vermont Forum in BenningtonRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office, the Vermont Attorney General’s Office, and the Rutland Area NAACP will be co-hosting a Hate-Free Vermont Forum in Bennington on September 28, 2022, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
“The Forum aims to bring policymakers, stakeholders, and community members together for productive and difficult conversations that will work to reduce animus, discord, and misunderstandings,” said co-facilitator Etan Nasreddin-Longo. “When we began these conversations in 2019, our goal was to take the pulse of Vermonters’ experience of discrimination. Much has happened since that time, and our hope is to engage and to listen to our historically-disadvantaged communities about what they view as the continuing and new problems in 2022.”
Community members are encouraged to join us for a conversation on understanding and addressing bias, discrimination, and hate crimes in Vermont.
When: Wednesday, September 28, 2022, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Where: The Forum will be hosted in-person and also remotely.- Physical location: Mount Anthony Union High School, Cafeteria, 301 Park St, Bennington, VT 05201
- Remote registration link: bit.ly/3Sm1Deq1
- In-person registration link (optional): bit.ly/3RVUnRY
Who: All are welcome.
For physical attendance, masks are requested. Registration is required for remote attendance.
Colchester Man Indicted for Federal Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on September 8, 2022, the Grand Jury returned an indictment charging Dominique Troupe (also known as “Wop” and “Juice”), 35, of Colchester with one count of possessing with intent to distribute cocaine base.
According to court filings, Troupe was arrested Wednesday evening as he got off the ferry in Grand Isle, after travelling to New York to obtain crack cocaine for distribution in Vermont. He was arrested with more than 200 grams (including packaging) of cocaine base in the trunk of his vehicle.
At the time of his arrest, Troupe was subject to conditions imposed last month by Chittenden Superior Court Criminal Division in connection with a pending prosecution in that court for Aggravated Assault and Burglary. The state-court-imposed conditions required Troupe to stay at his Colchester residence, subject to certain exceptions.
The United States has moved for Troupe to be detained during the pendency of his prosecution. He will be arraigned on the indictment and the Court is expected to take up the question of pre-trial detention at a hearing scheduled for 2:30 p.m. today before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle.
The indictment is an accusation only and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, Troupe faces a maximum possible sentence of 20 years in prison. Any sentence imposed, would be informed by the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
Troupe is represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq. The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Michael Drescher.
Vermont Man Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on September 7, 2022, Stephen Salyer, 42, formerly of Underhill, Vermont, was sentenced in United States District Court in Rutland, Vermont to serve 40 months in prison after his guilty plea to one count of being in possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year. Chief U.S. District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford also ordered Salyer to serve a three-year term of supervised release and to pay a $100 special assessment.
According to court records and proceedings, on September 21, 2021, the Winooski, Vermont Police Department received a report that a man was in possession of a firearm on a public street. Officers responded and encountered Salyer. Upon discovering that Salyer was the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant, officers took him into custody. At that time, they discovered that Salyer was in possession of a 9mm High Point Luger C9 handgun. In 2019, Salyer had been convicted of Assault and Robbery with a Weapon and Eluding Law Enforcement Officer – Negligent Operation.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the Winooski, Vermont Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives in the investigation and prosecution of Salyer.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara A. Masterson handled the prosecution of Salyer. Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara M. Puls represented Salyer.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn
Swanton Woman Sentenced for Distributing Crack Cocaine While on Federal Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that Pamela Yandow, 50, of Swanton, Vermont, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Rutland, Vermont to two years’ imprisonment for distributing cocaine base in October of 2021. Yandow had been released from federal prison in April of 2021 and was on supervised release when she committed this offense. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford also sentenced Yandow to another two years’ imprisonment, to be served consecutively, for violating the terms of her supervised release.
According to court records, Yandow began violating the terms of her supervised release by using narcotics within weeks of her release from Bureau of Prisons custody. Then in October of 2021, Yandow distributed cocaine base, commonly known as “crack,” on multiple occasions to a confidential informant at or near her residence in Swanton. Yandow’s extensive criminal history dates back to 1996, and includes a 2003 federal conviction for bank fraud, a 2013 state conviction for narcotics distribution, and a 2019 federal conviction for conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine base. Yandow received an 84-month prison sentence in 2019 but sought and obtained compassionate release in April 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the St. Albans Police Department. He also thanked the Swanton Police Department, the Vermont State Police Drug Task Force, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the U.S. Border Patrol for their assistance.
The United States was represented in this matter by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt. Yandow was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara M. Puls.
Daniel Chase Sentenced for Making False Statements to Social Security AdministrationRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that Daniel Chase, 61, of Weathersfield, Vermont was sentenced today in United States District Court in Rutland to one year of probation following his guilty plea to a charge that he made false statements to the Social Security Administration. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford also ordered Chase to pay $2602 in restitution.
In May 2021, a federal grand jury in Burlington returned an indictment charging Chase with three counts of making false statements to the Social Security Administration. In June 2020, Chase’s spouse, who had been receiving Social Security disability payments, died. Upon learning of the spouse’s death, SSA stopped the spouse’s monthly payment, which was about $867. According to the indictment, in an effort to get his spouse’s benefit payments reinstated, Chase repeatedly made false claims to SSA that he was the spouse, that he was alive and that the payments had been wrongly terminated. Chase also submitted forged documents to SSA purportedly as proof that the spouse was alive.
This case was investigated by SSA’s Office of Inspector General and Vermont’s Department of Children and Families.
Chase is represented by Ian Carleton, Esq. and Devin McKnight, Esq. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
Winooski Man Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on August 29, 2022, Tyler Branon, 33, of Winooski, Vermont, was sentenced in United States District Court in Burlington, Vermont to serve 45 months in prison after his guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. U.S. District Court Judge Christina Reiss also ordered Branon to serve a three year term of supervised release and to pay a $100 special assessment.
According to court records and proceedings, in January 2021, Branon was asked to drive a man from Colchester, Vermont, to St. Albans, Vermont, so the man could consummate a drug deal. Specifically, the man was to buy approximately one-quarter ounce of cocaine base (crack cocaine) and was to sell Percocet pills in exchange for a firearm. Branon agreed and drove the man to St. Albans, where the drug transaction took place. Upon their return to Colchester, the man gave Branon crack cocaine as compensation and gave the firearm to Branon to hold.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the Winooski, Vermont Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives in the investigation and prosecution of Branon.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara A. Masterson handled the prosecution of Branon. Michael Shklar, Esq., represented Branon.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn
Guatemalan National Living in Maryland and Salvadoran National Living in Virginia Charged with Unlawful Transportation of Individual in VermontRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Nector Armando Garcia Perez, 26, of Waldorf, Maryland, and Deisy Del Cid Reyes, 27, of Falls Church, Virginia, were arrested yesterday and will appear tomorrow in federal court on a charge alleging that, on or about August 26, 2022, they unlawfully transported an individual they knew to have entered the United States illegally. Garcia Perez is a national of Guatemala, and Del Cid Reyes is a national of El Salvador.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office notes that a criminal complaint is an accusation only and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. As currently charged, each defendant would face up to 5 years of imprisonment if convicted. Any sentence in the case will be advised by the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest credited the agents of the United States Border Patrol for their quick response and investigation of Garcia Perez and Del Cid Reyes, and their continued efforts to prevent the exploitation of foreign nationals by human-smuggling organizations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Ophardt represents the United States in this case. Garcia Perez is represented by the Federal Public Defender’s Office. Del Cid Reyes is represented by John-Claude Charbonneau, Esq.
Groton Man Sentenced for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Paul Emerson, 38, of Groton, Vermont, was sentenced yesterday in Rutland, Vermont by Chief Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford of the United States District Court for the District of Vermont to time served to be followed by 10 years of supervised release for his possession of three items of child sexual abuse materials (formerly called “child pornography”).
Emerson pleaded guilty to the charged possession in March of 2022 and has been on pre-trial release since that time.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation for its work on the matter.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and Child Exploitation Obscenity Section, Criminal Division (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant United States Attorney Eugenia Cowles represented the government. Assistant Federal Public Defender Mary Nerino represented Mr. Emerson.
South Burlington Resident Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Kendall Liberty, 21, of South Burlington, Vermont, was sentenced today to 6 months of imprisonment, to be followed by three months of home confinement and two years of supervised release, following his conviction for possessing a firearm while being an unlawful user of controlled substances. United States District Judge William K. Sessions III announced the sentence following a hearing in the federal courthouse in Burlington. At the conclusion of the hearing, Liberty was taken into custody by the United States Marshals Service to begin his sentence.
According to court records, Liberty pleaded guilty to the firearm offense on December 20, 2021. The defendant acknowledged having purchased a 7.62-millimeter AK-style rifle from Powderhorn Outdoor Sports Center in Williston, Vermont in September 2020. The defendant further acknowledged having consumed marijuana on a frequent and regular basis between September 2020 and his arrest on July 20, 2021. As described in the complaint affidavit, witnesses indicated that Liberty also frequently used cocaine, ecstasy, and alprazolam (Xanax) during that period. Witnesses also described Liberty having made threats to use the firearm against others, including at a hospital, at Oakledge Park, and at a school.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the South Burlington Police Department for their quick response and ongoing support in the case, and he thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for its assistance in the prosecution. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Lasher handled the prosecution. Liberty was represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn
Man Sentenced to 42 Months’ Imprisonment for Attempting to Rob the Vermont Federal Credit Union in BurlingtonRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Donald McCandless, 43, formerly of Norfolk, Virginia, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Burlington to 42 months’ imprisonment following his guilty plea to a charge that he attempted to rob the Vermont Federal Credit Union in Burlington last June. U.S. District Judge William K. Sessions III also ordered that McCandless serve three years of supervised release following completion of his prison term. McCandless has been detained since he first appeared in federal court last June.
According to court records, McCandless entered VFCU with an object in his pocket, stated he had a bomb, and demanded money. McCandless then approached a teller window and began punching the plexiglass barrier, knocking items off the counter. A customer conducting business at the bank grabbed McCandless and began pulling McCandless toward the exit of the bank. McCandless was given $10 in cash by a patron, and McCandless left the bank. Burlington Police Officers who responded to a 911 call and alarm at VFCU encountered McCandless on College Street wearing clothing consistent with that described by witnesses of the attempted robbery. McCandless was found with two $5 bills in his hand, and McCandless reported having been “doing meth” earlier in the day. At the time of his arrest, McCandless had a nonextraditable arrest warrant issued in Norfolk, Virginia for violating a term of probation imposed as part of his sentence for a 2020 conviction for felony strangulation. In the week prior to the attempted robbery, McCandless had multiple encounters with Burlington and South Burlington Police and was cited by South Burlington Police earlier on the day of the robbery for trespassing onto the Vermont Air National Guard Base with a knife.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the quick response and investigation of the Burlington Police Department and thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation for its assistance.
The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Ang. McCandless is represented by Assistant Federal Defender Steven Barth.
Guatemalan National Living in Maryland Charged with Unlawful Transportation of Individual in VermontRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Alex Alejandro-Cordero (also known as Alejandro Guerro-Soto and Enio Alejandro Cordero), 36, of Adelphi, Maryland, appeared on Friday, August 19, 2022, in federal court on a charge alleging that, on or about August 18, 2022, he unlawfully transported an individual he knew to have entered the United States illegally. Upon the motion of the United States, U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle ordered Alejandro-Cordero detained pending further proceedings in the case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office notes that a criminal complaint is an accusation only and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. As currently charged, Alejandro-Cordero would face up to 5 years of imprisonment if convicted. Any sentence in the case will be advised by the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest credited the agents of the United States Border Patrol for their quick response and investigation of Alejandro-Cordero and their continued efforts to prevent the exploitation of foreign nationals by human-smuggling organizations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher represents the United States in this case. Alejandro-Cordero is represented by Federal Public Defender Michael Desautels, Esq.
Mexican Nationals Living in Indiana Charged with Unlawful Transportation of Individuals in VermontRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Lucio Carrillo-Genis, 34, and Alejandro Carrillo-Linares, 32, both of Martinsville, Indiana, were indicted on Thursday, August 18, 2022, by a federal grand jury on a charge of unlawfully attempting to transport individuals they knew to have entered the United States illegally. Carrillo-Genis and Carrillo-Linares were arraigned in United States District Court in Burlington this afternoon, where they both entered pleas of not guilty. They both remain detained pending further proceedings pursuant to a prior detention order issued by U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment is an accusation only and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. As currently charged, Carillo-Genis and Carrillo-Linares would each face up to 5 years of imprisonment if convicted. Any sentence in the case will be advised by the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest credited the agents of the United States Border Patrol for their investigation and apprehension of Carrillo-Genis and Carrillo-Linares and their continued efforts to prevent the exploitation of foreign nationals by human-smuggling organizations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher represents the United States in this case. Carrillo-Genis is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth. Carrillo-Linares is represented by Allan Sullivan, Esq.
Burlington Resident Sentenced for Straw Purchasing FirearmRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Marissa Byrd, 30, of Burlington, Vermont, was sentenced yesterday to a two-year period of probation after her conviction for providing false or fictitious statements to a federally licensed dealer of firearms in connection with her acquisition of a firearm. United States District Judge Christina Reiss announced the sentence following a hearing in the federal courthouse in Burlington.
According to court records, Byrd pleaded guilty to the offense on April 29, 2022. The defendant acknowledged having purchased a firearm from Parro’s Gun Shop in Waterbury, Vermont in March 2021 at the request of another individual, who provided her money to complete the purchase. After acquiring the handgun, Byrd transferred it to the other individual, whom Byrd knew was prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law. As part of the purchase of the firearm, Byrd completed an ATF form falsely indicating that she was the actual purchaser of the firearm. This type of offense is commonly known as “straw purchasing,” and it is punishable by up to ten years of imprisonment.
At the sentencing hearing, both the government and defense counsel recommended a probationary sentence in light of, among other things, Byrd’s prompt acceptance of responsibility for her offense and her performance on pretrial release during the pendency of this case.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Lasher handled the prosecution. Byrd was represented by David Kirby, Esq.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn
Winooski Man Charged with Receipt of a Firearm While Under Felony IndictmentRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Edward Lamson, 22, of Winooski, Vermont, was indicted on Thursday, August 4, 2022 by a federal grand jury for unlawful receipt of a firearm while he was under felony indictment. Lamson was arraigned in United States District Court on August 9, 2022 and was detained pending trial following a hearing on August 10, 2022.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Lamson remains presumed innocent until and unless he is convicted of a crime. If convicted, Lamson faces up to 5 years of imprisonment. Any actual sentence would be determined by the Court with reference to the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines and the United States Code.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the South Burlington Police Department.
The United States is represented in this matter by Assistant United States Attorney Eugenia Cowles. Lamson is represented by Michael J. Straub, Esq.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn
Chittenden County Men Charged with Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Making a False StatementRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Aaron Dang, 19, of Burlington, Vermont, was indicted on Thursday, August 4, 2022 by a federal grand jury for unlawful possession of a stolen firearm. In the same indictment, Badal Khadka, 19, of Essex Junction, Vermont, was charged with making a false statement to an agent of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Dang and Khadka were arraigned in United States District Court on August 8, 2022, and both men were released on conditions pending trial.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Dang and Khadka remain presumed innocent until and unless they are convicted of a crime. If convicted, Dang faces up to 10 years of imprisonment on the stolen firearm possession charge. Khadka faces up to 5 years of imprisonment on the false statement charge. Any actual sentences would be determined by the Court with reference to the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines and the United States Code.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the ATF and the Burlington Police Department.
The United States is represented in this matter by Assistant United States Attorney Wendy L. Fuller. Dang is represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq. Khadka is represented by Richard Goldsborough, Esq.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn
Burlington Man Charged with Possession of a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Fahad Hilowle, 28, of Burlington, Vermont, was indicted on Thursday, August 4, 2022 by a federal grand jury for unlawful possession of a firearm as a felon. Hilowle was arraigned in United States District Court on August 9, 2022 and was detained pending trial following a hearing on August 10, 2022.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Hilowle remains presumed innocent until and unless he is convicted of a crime. If convicted, Hilowle faces up to 10 years of imprisonment. Any actual sentence would be determined by the Court with reference to the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines and the United States Code.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Burlington Police Department.
The United States is represented in this matter by Assistant United States Attorney Wendy L. Fuller. Hilowle is represented by Mark D. Oettinger, Esq.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn
Two Face Federal Drug Charges After Multi-Agency Search in MontpelierRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced today that Kimberly Kuncz, 53, of Montpelier, Vermont, and Frederick Campbell II, 19, of Detroit, Michigan, were arrested yesterday and charged today by criminal complaint. Kuncz was charged with distributing cocaine base on June 23, 2022. Campbell was charged with possessing with intent to distribute cocaine base on August 4, 2022. Both defendants will appear before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle in the near future.
According to court records, the Vermont Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted a controlled purchase of cocaine base from Kuncz on June 23, 2022 in Berlin, Vermont. Thereafter, significant drug activity was observed at Kuncz’s residence located at 19 George Street in Montpelier, Vermont. On August 1, 2022, a federal search warrant was obtained for Kuncz’s George Street residence. On the morning of August 4, 2022, in anticipation of executing the search warrant, law enforcement was conducting surveillance of the George Street residence. A rented black Ford F-150 was seen leaving 19 George Street at approximately 5:30 a.m. and was observed speeding on multiple occasions. After a traffic stop, Campbell was identified as the driver. The search of 19 George Street established probable cause that there were drugs in the F-150, and a search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure from under the driver’s seat of a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, with 14 rounds of ammunition including a round in the chamber. A search of Campbell’s person resulted in the seizure of approximately 7 grams of cocaine base. In addition, the search of Kuncz’s residence resulted in the seizure of approximately 78 grams of suspected cocaine base, 2.5 grams of suspected methamphetamine, $2,000 in cash, and digital scales.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a criminal complaint contains allegations only and that Kuncz and Campbell are presumed innocent until and unless convicted of a crime.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Vermont Drug Task Force, the Montpelier Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Kerest also thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Northfield Police Department, the State of Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Vermont Capitol Police for their assistance during yesterday’s search warrant execution.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Ophardt. Kuncz is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender. Campbell is represented by Gregory Mertz, Esq.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn
Springfield, Massachusetts Man Sentenced to Prison for Drug Trafficking in the Northeast KingdomRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that Addiel Santini, 20, of Springfield, Massachusetts, was sentenced today to serve 6 months in prison after his conviction for possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and cocaine base. United States District Judge Christina Reiss also ordered Santini to serve a three-year term of supervised release after his incarceration.
As Santini admitted in his guilty plea hearing, the Lyndonville Police Department (LPD) entered an apartment on Center Street in Lyndon, Vermont on June 26, 2021. Santini was the only person found in the sole bedroom of the apartment. Later that same day, LPD obtained a search warrant for the apartment. According to court records, during execution of that search warrant, in the bedroom that Santini had been occupying, law enforcement found approximately 3,670 bags of fentanyl-laced heroin, 6.187 grams of cocaine base, 34.54 grams of cocaine, and $5,695 in U.S. currency.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigative efforts of the Vermont Drug Task Force of the Vermont State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Lyndonville Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly G. Ang handled the prosecution. Santini was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth.
Mexican National Living in New York Charged with Unlawful Transportation of Individuals in VermontRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Marco Salvedra-Espinoza (also known as Marco Saavedra Espinosa), 42, of the Bronx, New York, appeared today in federal court on a charge alleging that, on or about July 27, 2022, he unlawfully transported individuals he knew to have entered the United States illegally. Upon the motion of the United States, U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle ordered Salvedra-Espinoza detained pending further proceedings in the case.
According to public documents in the case, on the night of July 27, 2022, an agent with the United States Border Patrol was patrolling an area of the international border with Canada and stopped a vehicle registered to a rental company with Virginia-based plates. The driver, Salvedra-Espinoza, claimed he was in the area to pick up friends. Further investigation showed that Salvedra-Espinoza is a Mexican national who had been previously removed from the United States and that he did not have current legal status in the United States. The two back-seat passengers were also identified as Mexican citizens, and they ultimately admitted they had just entered the United States illegally from Canada after paying thousands of dollars to be smuggled into the country. The passengers have been charged with illegal entry into the United States, a misdemeanor, in a related case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office notes that a criminal complaint is an accusation only and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. As currently charged, Salvedra-Espinoza would face up to 5 years of imprisonment if convicted. Any sentence in the case will be advised by the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest credited the agents of the United States Border Patrol for their investigation of Salvedra-Espinoza and their continued efforts to prevent the exploitation of foreign nationals by human-smuggling organizations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher represents the United States in this case. Salvedra-Espinoza is represented by Kevin Henry, Esq.
St. Johnsbury Business Owner Sentenced to Imprisonment for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Blakely H. Jenkins, Sr., 61, of St. Johnsbury, Vermont, was sentenced today to one year and one day of imprisonment for evading taxes and committing identity theft while running his St. Johnsbury-based painting business, Blake Jenkins Painting, Inc. United States District Judge William K. Sessions III also ordered Jenkins to serve a two-year term of supervised release.
In February 2022, Jenkins pleaded guilty to two counts of evasion of employment taxes and one count of identity theft. According to court records and proceedings, Jenkins evaded employment taxes from mid-2015 to mid-2020 by paying his employees “off the books” wages either in cash or in checks falsely denoted as being for non-wage purposes. Jenkins took a number of steps to execute this plan, including falsifying records, creating bogus documents, and signing another person’s name without permission. Every employment tax return that Jenkins’ company submitted to the Internal Revenue Service during this period contained false information that significantly underreported the amounts that Jenkins actually paid his employees. In total, Jenkins’ company failed to report over $1.3 million in employee wages, resulting in over $340,000 in unpaid federal taxes.
“Investigating and prosecuting white collar offenses is a top priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest. “We will continue to work closely with the Criminal Division of the Internal Revenue Service and our other excellent law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who line their own pockets at the expense of others, whether by avoiding their tax obligations, collecting benefits to which they are not entitled, or defrauding victim individuals or companies.”
“The IRS Criminal Investigation Division takes these violations of law very seriously,” said Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office. “By not reporting all wages to the IRS, hardworking employees may not have access to all of the Social Security, Medicare and Unemployment Compensation they are entitled to receive. Employers have an obligation to their employees to not only accurately report all wages, but to pay over all tax withholdings. Investigating employment tax fraud is a priority for the special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation as we strive to protect the trust that individuals put in their employers to make sure their future benefits are secure.”
The United States was represented in this matter by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Cate. Jody Frey, Esq. represented the defendant.
Connecticut Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 54 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Markus Saez, 28, of Bloomfield, Connecticut, was sentenced today to serve 54 months in prison after his conviction for possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine. United States District Judge William K. Sessions III also ordered Saez to serve a three-year term of supervised release after his incarceration.
According to court records, in the fall of 2020, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted controlled purchases of fentanyl from Saez with the help of a confidential informant. On December 7, 2020, DEA agents arrested Saez while he was in the middle of a drug sale in the parking lot of a hotel in Colchester. A search of Saez’s person resulted in the seizure of $1,106 and a hotel key card for Saez’s room. Agents obtained a search warrant from a federal magistrate judge for the room, resulting in the seizure of approximately 40 grams of fentanyl, 70 grams of cocaine and cocaine base, cutting agents, drug packaging materials, and over $11,000 in cash.
At the sentencing hearing, the government requested a 70-month sentence, citing defendant Saez’s multiple prior convictions for selling narcotics and his June 2021 arrest in East Hartford, Connecticut for unlawfully possessing and brandishing a loaded firearm, which occurred while he was on pretrial conditions of release in the Vermont federal case. Saez’s prosecution in Connecticut for firearm offenses remains pending.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Winooski Police Department and the Burlington Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt handled the prosecution. Saez was represented by Gregory Mertz, Esq.
Coney Island Man Sentenced for Distributing Cocaine BaseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on July 29, 2022, Christopher Rivers, 28, of Coney Island, New York, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss to 30 months’ imprisonment and a 3-year term of supervised release for distributing cocaine base on September 21, 2021.
As indicated in court records, throughout August and September 2021, investigators with the Burlington Police Department, with the assistance of members of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Burlington Resident Office, conducted multiple controlled purchases of narcotics from traffickers who were working together in Burlington, Vermont.
As part of this investigation on September 21, 2021, a confidential informant purchased cocaine base from Rivers in downtown Burlington. On September 23, 2021, investigators apprehended multiple traffickers involved in drug distribution, including Rivers. That day, investigators also executed a search warrant at a Church Street residence in downtown Burlington. Within the Church Street residence, investigators recovered over 40 grams of cocaine base and over 18 grams of fentanyl, which Rivers, with others, admitted to possessing with intent to distribute. Investigators also recovered a Mossberg .410 pump shotgun and a Savage Arms .22 Long Rifle from the Church Street residence.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the Burlington Police Department as well as the Drug Enforcement Administration, Burlington Resident Office, in the investigation and prosecution of Rivers.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Rivers was represented by Kevin Henry, Esq.
Connecticut Man Sentenced to 70 Months’ Imprisonment for Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine, and Cocaine Base from Rutland ApartmentRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Ralph Mariani (a.k.a. “D”), 28, of West Hartford, Connecticut was sentenced on July 20, 2022 in United States District Court in Rutland, Vermont by Chief Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford to 70 months of imprisonment. Mariani had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and cocaine base in the Rutland, Vermont area. Judge Crawford also ordered that Mariani serve three years of supervised release by the U.S. Probation Office after he serves his term of imprisonment.
Mariani’s three codefendants, Cedano Brownswell of Hartford, Connecticut, Rashane Wedderburn of Hartford, Connecticut, and Jasmine Wendell of West Rutland, Vermont, have all pleaded guilty to drug trafficking offenses and are awaiting sentencing.
According to court records and proceedings, on November 18, 2020, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant for an apartment on Traverse Place in Rutland, Vermont. Mariani, Wedderburn, Brownswell, and Wendell were all present at the time of this search. Law enforcement seized approximately 72 grams of powder cocaine, 45 grams of cocaine base, 69 bags of fentanyl, and 52 Oxycodone pills. The search also resulted in the seizure of four firearms, including a loaded 9mm pistol located on the living room couch. Law enforcement also seized a total of over six thousand dollars in cash from Mariani, Cedano, and Wedderburn. The government argued that a long sentence was justified because Mariani’s offense involved drug trafficking for profit, possession of firearms, violence, and threats of violence, including his assault of a female drug addict to coerce her into dealing drugs for him in the Rutland area.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the joint efforts in this investigation by the Vermont State Police (Narcotics Investigation Unit), the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Rutland City Police, and Homeland Security Investigations. This case is prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Perella. Mariani is represented by Gerald Klein, Esq. of Hartford, Connecticut.
U.S. Attorney, Vermont Attorney General, and Rutland Area NAACP to Co-Host Hate-Free Vermont ForumRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office, the Vermont Attorney General’s Office, and the Rutland Area NAACP will be co-hosting a Hate-Free Vermont Forum in Rutland on July 21 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
“The Forum aims to bring policymakers, stakeholders, and community members together for productive and difficult conversations that will work to reduce animus, discord, and misunderstandings,” said Co-facilitator Etan Nasreddin-Longo. “When we began this series of fora back in 2019, its intent was to take the pulse of Vermonters’ experiences of discrimination. Much has happened since that time, and our hope is to engage and to listen to our historically-disadvantaged communities about what they view as the continuing and new problems in 2022.”
Community members are encouraged to join us for a conversation on understanding and addressing bias, discrimination, and hate crimes in Vermont.
When: Thursday, July 21, 2022, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Where: The Forum will be hosted in-person and remotely.- Physical location: Leahy Community Health Education Center, 160 Allen St, Rutland VT
- Remote registration link: https://bit.ly/HateFreeVTRutland
Who: All are welcome. Community members have expressed that some participants may not wish to be recorded during the event, and that participants who are willing to speak with members of the media will designate themselves. Media is asked to join 30 minutes ahead of the start time.
For physical attendance, masks are required. Registration is required for remote attendance.
John O’Hara, Jr. Pleads Guilty to Stealing Social Security Benefit PaymentsRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that John O’Hara, Jr., 43, of White River Junction, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court in Burlington to a charge that he fraudulently converted tens of thousands of dollars in Social Security benefit payments. U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss released O’Hara on conditions pending sentencing, which is scheduled for November 3.
On June 10, 2022, the U.S. Attorney filed a one-count information charging O’Hara with receiving stolen Government money. O’Hara pleaded guilty to that charge today. According to court records, O’Hara’s father, John O’Hara, Sr., received monthly Social Security benefit payments that were deposited into O’Hara Sr.’s bank account in Florida. O’Hara Sr. died in February 2018, at which time his SSA benefits should have terminated. O’Hara Jr. never notified SSA of his father’s death and SSA continued to make benefit payments to O’Hara Sr.’s account until October 2020. O’Hara Jr. fraudulently converted those unauthorized payments to his own use by transferring the funds to an account he controlled in North Carolina, and then accessing those funds from Vermont for personal purposes. The total loss to the Social Security Administration is about $51,000.
O’Hara faces up to ten years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence will be determined with reference to federal sentencing guidelines.
This case was investigated by the SSA’s Office of Inspector General.
O’Hara Jr. is represented by David Silver, Esq. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
Holyoke, Massachusetts Man Sentenced for Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Daeshawn Jones, 21, of Holyoke, Massachusetts was sentenced on July 12 in United States District Court to 47 months’ imprisonment. Jones had previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine. United States District Judge Christina Reiss also ordered Jones to serve a three-year term of supervised release.
According to court records and proceedings, Jones repeatedly traveled from Holyoke to Bennington County, Vermont in mid-2020 to sell drugs for personal financial gain. Jones stayed at a residence in Manchester, Vermont and stored and distributed narcotics from there.
Throughout this period, Jones also obtained and possessed firearms in connection with his drug trafficking activity. To acquire firearms, he asked others to purchase firearms for him. At Jones’s request, in May 2020, another man purchased two Glock handguns from a federally licensed firearms dealer in Belmont, Vermont and provided the guns to Jones. Two days later, one of the firearms was recovered in Holyoke. In June 2020, Jones asked the same man to purchase two additional handguns for him, but the purchase was denied by the firearms dealer. When Jones was arrested on a federal warrant in January 2021, he possessed a rifle and heroin in his residence.
Several others connected to Jones’s criminal conduct have previously been convicted and sentenced. On October 4, 2021, Caitlin Williams, 27, of Wallingford, Vermont, who pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine, was sentenced to time served, which was approximately ten months, by Judge William K. Sessions III. On December 22, 2021, Leland Martin, 35, of Shrewsbury, Vermont, who had pleaded guilty to straw purchasing firearms, was sentenced to twelve months and one day of imprisonment by Chief United States District Judge Geoffrey Crawford. On March 3, 2022, Alexander Johnson, 25, of Manchester, Vermont, who had pleaded guilty to distribution of cocaine base, was sentenced to 27 months’ imprisonment by Judge Reiss. Jones’s co-defendant, Thomas Rougier, Jr., has pleaded guilty before Judge Reiss to conspiring to distribute heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base and is detained pending sentencing.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Vermont State Police, and appreciates the assistance of the Manchester Police Department, the Rutland Police Department, the Holyoke, Massachusetts Police Department, the Easthampton, Massachusetts Police Department, the Springfield, Massachusetts Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“We are working with law enforcement at all levels to remove dangerous, illegal guns and drugs from the street,” said U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest. “We will use every tool available to eradicate the drug-fueled violence affecting our community.”
“Combatting firearms trafficking is at the forefront of ATF’s mission,” said James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in charge of ATF’s Boston Field Division. “These sentencings should send the message to criminals that a blatant disregard of federal firearms laws will be investigated by ATF and our local, state, and federal partners. Those who have willfully violated federal firearm laws will be prosecuted to the fullest extent.”
Jones was represented by Lisa Shelkrot, Esq. and William Vasiliou, Esq. Martin was represented by Robert Katims, Esq. Johnson was represented by Kevin Henry, Esq. Williams was represented by Robert Behrens, Esq. Rougier is represented by Stephanie Greenlees, Esq. The prosecutors were Assistant United States Attorneys John J. Boscia and Nicole P. Cate.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. Please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn for more information.
New Jersey Man Charged with Unlawful Transportation of IndividualsRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Christoph A. Romero-Gil, 40, of Trenton, New Jersey, appeared today in federal court on a charge alleging that on July 9, 2022, he unlawfully transported individuals he knew to have entered the United States illegally. Romero-Gil pleaded not guilty at his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle and was released pending trial.
According to public documents in the case, on July 9, 2022, United States Border Patrol responded to a camera activation showing four subjects with backpacks walking southbound near the international border in Franklin, Vermont. Border Patrol agents responded to the area, and conducted a traffic stop of a Nissan Pathfinder, which was being driven by Romero-Gil. Border Patrol agents found six additional occupants in the Nissan Pathfinder. Two occupants of the vehicle admitted they were Mexican nationals without lawful status in the United States who had unlawfully entered the United States from Canada; they were charged with misdemeanors relating to their unlawful entry as part of this case. The other four individuals in the vehicle were identified as Guatemalan citizens with legal status in Canada, and they were returned to Canada following their apprehension.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office notes that a criminal complaint is an accusation only and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 5 years of imprisonment on the current charge. Any sentence in the case will be advised by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest credited the United States Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations for their investigation of Romero-Gil.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Lasher and Zachary Stendig represent the government. Romero-Gil is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
Vermont Resident Sentenced for Drug Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on July 6, 2022, Robert J. Rideout, 59, formerly of Winooski, was sentenced in United States District Court in Rutland, Vermont, to serve 60 months in prison upon his conviction of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Rideout had pleaded guilty to the offense on January 7, 2022, pursuant to a plea agreement with the United States. Chief U.S. District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford also ordered Rideout to serve a four-year term of supervised release and to pay a $100 special assessment.
According to court records and proceedings, on July 14, 2021, agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), in conjunction with the Vermont State Police (VSP), stopped Rideout along Interstate 89 in Vermont while he was driving back from Springfield, Massachusetts. Investigators located and seized a backpack containing approximately 1.5 kilograms of cocaine and over 4,500 “tickets” (individual glassine baggies) that contained approximately 130 grams of fentanyl in total. Rideout, in conjunction with another individual, had acquired the controlled substances in Springfield and was transporting them back to Burlington. Rideout intended to transfer a substantial portion of the controlled substances to a third individual in the Burlington area upon his return. The other two individuals are charged in a separate federal case that currently remains pending.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the joint efforts of HSI and VSP—as well as the assistance of the Berlin Police Department, the South Burlington Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Marshals Service—in the investigation and prosecution of Rideout and others in the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher prosecuted the case for the United States. Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara Puls represented Rideout.
Springfield, Massachusetts Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on July 1, 2022, Justin Zayas-Sanchez, 22, of Springfield, Massachusetts, was sentenced in United States District Court in Burlington, Vermont, to serve 20 months in prison after his guilty plea to one count of distribution of fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss also ordered Zayas-Sanchez to serve a six-year term of supervised release and to pay a $100 special assessment.
According to court records and proceedings, on April 14, 2021, Zayas-Sanchez sold crack cocaine and ten bags of fentanyl to a confidential informant in the Rutland area. He also sold crack to an informant on May 26, 2021 and fentanyl to an informant on July 19, 2021. Zayas-Sanchez was arrested in November 2021 and has been detained since then.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the Vermont Drug Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Fair Haven Police Department in the investigation and prosecution of Zayas-Sanchez.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Van de Graaf handled the prosecution for the government. Assistant Federal Public Defender Mary Nerino represented Zayas-Sanchez.
Poultney, Vermont Man Charged with Distribution of Fentanyl and Cocaine BaseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on June 29, 2022 a federal grand jury, sitting in Rutland, charged Javon Wright (a.k.a. “Ace”), 37, of Poultney, Vermont with five counts of distributing fentanyl and cocaine base in May and June of 2022 in Rutland County.
According to court documents and proceedings, on June 30, 2022, following his indictment and the issuance of an arrest warrant, law enforcement arrested Wright as he was exiting a store in Fair Haven, Vermont. According to the government, at the time of his arrest, Wright possessed approximately 9 grams of cocaine base and less than a gram each of heroin and fentanyl. Also, early in the morning of July 1, 2022, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Wright’s residence at 288 Bentley Avenue in Poultney, Vermont and seized approximately 82 grams of cocaine powder, 20 grams of cocaine base, 12 grams of methamphetamine, and 9 grams of fentanyl – all weights with packaging.
At today’s arraignment, Wright pleaded not guilty to the charges. U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Kevin Doyle ordered Wright remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending a hearing on the government’s motion for detention, which the Court scheduled for July 7, 2022.
The maximum penalty for each of the charges are 20 years of imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, and a mandatory three years of supervised release, which follows any jail sentence. Any actual sentence, however, will be informed by the advisory Sentencing Guidelines. The Indictment is an accusation only and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
United States Attorney Nikolas Kerest commended the efforts of the Vermont State Police Narcotics Investigative Unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in this matter. This case is prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Perella. Wright is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender in Burlington.
Florida Man Charged with Unlawful Transportation of IndividualsRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Juan Mejia-Flores, 31, of Bradenton, Florida, has been indicted by the federal grand jury for the unlawful transportation of individuals who entered the United States illegally. Mejia-Flores is scheduled to be arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle this afternoon.
According to public documents in the case, on June 24, 2022, United States Border Patrol observed four people unlawfully cross the international border near Pelow Street in Derby Line, Vermont, and enter a white sedan. Border Patrol agents responded to the area, and conducted a traffic stop of the white sedan, which was being driven by Mejia-Flores. The other four occupants of the sedan admitted they were Mexican nationals without lawful status in the United States and had unlawfully entered the United States in Derby Line. Investigation by Border Patrol agents determined Mejia-Flores had been involved in a second unlawful crossing event near Burke, New York on May 14, 2022 that involved seven people unlawfully entering the United States from Canada.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office notes that an indictment is an accusation only and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 5 years of imprisonment on the current charge. Any sentence in the case will be advised by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest credited the United States Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations for their investigation of Mejia-Flores.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Ophardt represents the government. Mejia-Flores is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth.
Rutland Woman Charged with Making False Statements to a Firearms DealerRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Morgan Gates, 27, of Rutland, Vermont, was arrested yesterday after making false statements to a federal firearms dealer in connection with the purchase of a firearm. Gates is scheduled to make her first court appearance on July 5, 2022 before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle.
According to documents in the case, including the criminal complaint charging Gates, on June 29, 2022, Gates attempted to purchase a firearm at a Rutland dealer with a federal firearms license (“the FFL”). The FFL had reason to believe that Gates was an active drug user, delayed her purchase, and contacted the Rutland Police Department. While law enforcement investigated the attempted purchase, Rutland Police detectives learned that Gates had successfully purchased a Glock Model 45 9x19mm handgun from a different FFL located in Rutland on June 29, 2022. In coordination with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations, Rutland Police detectives located Gates and detained her. A search of Gates’s residence in Rutland did not recover the Glock firearm but did result in the seizure of ammunition of multiple calibers and an empty box of 9x19mm ammunition. The Glock Model 45 9x19mm handgun purchased by Gates has not yet been recovered.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office notes that the criminal complaint is an accusation only and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 10 years of imprisonment on the current charge. Any sentence in the case will be advised by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest credited the Rutland Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations for its quick and collaborative work in addressing this illicit gun transaction. U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest added, “Federally licensed firearms dealers are the first line of defense in stopping unlawful firearms sales and ensuring only those who pass federal background checks are allowed to purchase firearms. FFLs who work closely with law enforcement play a vital role in keeping our communities safe.”
AUSA Jonathan Ophardt represents the government. Gates is represented by Katina Ready, Esq.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. Please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn for more information.
Honduran National Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Enin Noe Marquez-Cruz, 30, of Honduras, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Burlington on a charge of illegally reentering the United States. Marquez-Cruz is to be arraigned on the indictment on July 6, 2022.
According to court documents, on June 18, 2022, a United States Border Patrol Agent encountered Marquez-Cruz walking in the breakdown lane of Interstate 89 South, approximately one-quarter mile south of the Highgate Springs international border crossing. Marquez-Cruz has been removed from the United States on five previous occasions and has been convicted in federal district court three times before on immigration-related offenses.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office notes that the charge against Marquez-Cruz is an accusation only and that Marquez-Cruz is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, Marquez-Cruz faces up to 2 years of imprisonment. Any sentence in the case will be advised by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Ang is the prosecutor. The Office of the Federal Public Defender represents Marquez-Cruz.
Justice Department’s Criminal Division Creates New England Prescription Opioid Strike Force to Focus on Illegal Opioid PrescriptionsRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr., of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division today announced the formation of the New England Prescription Opioid (NEPO) Strike Force, a joint law enforcement effort that brings together the resources and expertise of the Health Care Fraud Unit in the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for three federal districts, as well as law enforcement partners at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG), U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the FBI. The mission of the NEPO Strike Force is to identify and investigate health care fraud schemes in the New England region, and to effectively and efficiently prosecute individuals involved in the illegal distribution of prescription opioids and other prescribed controlled substances. The NEPO Strike Force will primarily target criminal conduct by physicians, pharmacists, and other medical professionals, focusing upon both health care fraud and drug diversion offenses, as relevant based upon the facts of the particular case.
“This NEPO Strike Force expands and sharpens the Justice Department’s response to the nation’s opioid epidemic,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr., of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “In the last year, more than 75,000 people in the United States lost their lives due to overdose. Since 2018, some of the greatest spikes in the drug overdose death rate have occurred in New England. The NEPO Strike Force will help to address one of the root causes of the epidemic: unlawful prescription and diversion of opioids. Together with our partners, we will fulfill the department’s solemn promise to deploy critical resources to address the opioid crisis.”
Assistant Attorney General Polite was joined in the announcement in Concord, New Hampshire, by U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young for the District of New Hampshire; U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee for the District of Maine; U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest for the District of Vermont; Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of HHS-OIG; Assistant Administrator Kristi N. O’Malley of the DEA Diversion Control Division; and Acting Deputy Assistant Director Aaron Tapp of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division.
“The formation of NEPO presents a tremendous opportunity for our three Northern New England states to disrupt the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young for the District of New Hampshire. “As a state, we are grateful to the Department of Justice to be part of this initiative and excited that it will be based here in New Hampshire.”
“Maine’s opioid overdose death rate has skyrocketed, and law enforcement has identified the opioid epidemic as the number one issue officers face,” said U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee for the District of Maine. “While the trafficking of illegal drugs, in particular fentanyl, is well publicized, 23% of overdose deaths in Maine are the result of pharmaceutical opioids, and many of those who died from illicit substances very likely first tried pharmaceuticals, either their own or those of a friend or family member. This Strike Force will provide vital resources to help fight a growing epidemic, and along with our partners, we will pursue any medical personnel who misuse their position to endanger lives through the overprescribing of opioids for their own financial gain.”
“The announcement of the New England Prescription Opioid Strike Force demonstrates the Department of Justice’s commitment to working with our law enforcement partners in Vermont and elsewhere to hold accountable health care providers who exploit the opioid epidemic for personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest for the District of Vermont. “Health care providers who issue illegal opioid prescriptions undermine important efforts to address the epidemic while putting patients at risk of overdose and physical harm.”
“HHS-OIG is unwavering in our commitment to hold accountable providers who illegally prescribe opioids for personal profit while neglecting the safety and wellbeing of their patients,” said Inspector General Christi A. Grimm of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Along with our law enforcement partners, HHS-OIG is proud to support the New England Prescription Opioid Strike Force in a collaborative effort to assist communities plagued by the opioid epidemic.”
“At a time when the United States is losing tens of thousands of Americans to opioid overdoses every year, it has never been more critical to ensure doctors and health care practitioners are prioritizing the safety and health of their patients,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “The creation of the New England Prescription Opioid Strike Force further strengthens our important cooperation with partners in the region to hold accountable any practitioner who recklessly distributes opioid medications.”
“The formation of the New England Prescription Opioid Strike Force provides the FBI and our law enforcement partners with important collective resources to combat health care fraud and drug diversion schemes within the region,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI will not tolerate those medical professionals willing to sacrifice patients’ health for their personal profit and will work tirelessly to root out and bring to justice those individuals who illegally distribute prescription opioids and other controlled substances.”
The NEPO Strike Force will operate as a partnership between prosecutors and data analysts with the Fraud Section’s Health Care Fraud Unit, prosecutors with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont, and special agents with HHS-OIG, DEA, and the FBI. It will operate out of the Concord, New Hampshire, area, supporting the three districts that make up the NEPO Strike Force region. In addition, the NEPO Strike Force will work closely with other federal and state law enforcement agencies, including the State Medicaid Fraud Control Units.
Today’s NEPO Strike Force announcement builds on the demonstrated success of the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force. Since its inception in late 2018, ARPO has partnered with federal and state law enforcement agencies and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout Alabama, Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia, Tennessee, and West Virginia to prosecute medical professionals and others involved in the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids. Over the past three years, ARPO has charged 111 defendants, collectively responsible for issuing prescriptions for over 115 million controlled substance pills. To date, more than 60 ARPO defendants have been convicted.
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Information about available treatment programs is available as follows:
New Hampshire: For a referral to addiction treatment services, please call 211. If you or a loved one is in a substance use crisis please call/text the New Hampshire Rapid Response Access Point at 1-833-710-6477. New Hampshire residents can call and speak to trained and caring clinical staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Maine: The Overdose Prevention Through Intensive Outreach Naloxone and Safety (OPTIONS) initiative is a coordinated effort of the Maine Office of Behavioral Health (OBH) and other state agencies to improve the health of Mainers using substances through harm reduction strategies, helping them on the road to recovery, and dramatically reducing the number of fatal and non-fatal drug overdoses. Go to https://knowyouroptions.me. If you or a loved one are struggling with opiate addiction, please contact 211 to receive help and find information about local treatment programs.
Vermont: No matter where in Vermont you are, there are resources to help. Vermont 211 (https://vermont211.org/) is available. To speak to someone about substance use resources including treatment options, call VT Helplink 802-565-LINK (toll free at 833-565-LINK) or visit online at VTHelplink.org, and Vermont Alcohol and Abuse Programs (802-651-1550). All information and referral services are free and confidential.
For individuals seeking help in other states, please call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.Two Rutland Men Charged with Straw Purchase of a FirearmRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Jaansher Gondal, who is 20 years old, and Leslie Harold Taylor, Jr., who is 44 years old, were arrested on Friday, June 24, 2022 for their roles in straw purchasing a firearm from a Rutland area firearms dealer. The two Rutland men appeared in federal court today before U.S Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle and were temporarily detained pending detention hearings later this week.
According to documents in the case, on June 22, 2022, Gondal arranged for Taylor to purchase a handgun from a federal firearms dealer. Taylor asserted on an ATF background check form that the Glock handgun was for him when, in fact, it was for Gondal. At the time of the purchase, Gondal was aware he could not legally purchase a handgun because he was under 21 years old and requested Taylor’s assistance in obtaining the handgun in exchange for cash.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office notes that the charges against the defendants are accusations only and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, both men face up to 10 years of imprisonment. Any sentence in the case will be advised by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia Cowles is the prosecutor. The Office of the Federal Public Defender represents Gondal and Kevin M. Henry, Esq. represents Taylor.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office credited the Federal Bureau of Investigation for its work in addressing this illicit gun transaction. This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. Please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn for more information.
Westminster Man and Springfield Woman Charged with Conspiring and Attempting to Commit RobberyRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that Daniel King, 41, of Westminster, Vermont, and Jacquelyn Fougere, 29, of Springfield, Vermont, were indicted by the federal grand jury for conspiring and attempting to commit a robbery that interfered with interstate commerce on March 14, 2022. Defendant Fougere was arrested on Wednesday, June 22, 2022 and is scheduled to have her initial appearance today. Defendant King is currently in the custody of Vermont’s Department of Corrections, and his initial appearance has not yet been scheduled.
According to court records, on March 14, 2022, King and Fougere attempted to rob a man of cash and THC cartridges by breaking into his residential trailer in Westminster, Vermont. The victim reported to law enforcement that King was carrying a firearm when he kicked down the door to the trailer. King also was carrying zip ties which were readied as make-shift handcuffs.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that both defendants are presumed innocent until and unless convicted of a crime. Both King and Fougere face a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment. The actual sentences, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory federal sentencing guidelines.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Vermont State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Ophardt. Fougere’s attorney is Robert Behrens, Esq. King has not yet retained or been appointed counsel.
Burlington Man Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on June 24, 2022, Chief United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford sentenced Amrou Mohamed, 26, of Burlington, to a 15-month term of imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, following his guilty plea to a charge of aiding and abetting a false statement in connection with the purchase of a firearm in June of 2021.
According to court records, Mohamed planned for an unnamed buyer to purchase a firearm for him. Mohamed coached the buyer on the steps the buyer would need to take to purchase the firearm for him and informed the buyer that the buyer would need to lie when answering a question on a form asking if the buyer was the actual purchaser of the firearm. On June 2, 2021, Mohamed provided the buyer with funds for the purchase of the firearm, then drove the buyer to a licensed firearms dealer. The buyer selected a Glock 17 9mm pistol and submitted ATF Form 4473 indicating that the buyer was in fact the actual purchaser of the firearm. On June 26, 2021, the Burlington Police Department seized the firearm from Mohamed, finding that it was loaded with ten rounds of 9mm ammunition.
At the sentencing hearing, Judge Crawford found that Mohamed’s offense involved between three and seven firearms based on his unlawful possession of various firearms on other occasions.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for their work on this investigation, as well as the Burlington Police Department and the South Burlington Police Department. U.S. Attorney Kerest stated: “Lying to firearms dealers in order to illegally obtain guns is a serious offense that undermines the safety of our community. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute violations of federal firearms laws.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nate Burris. Mohamed was represented by Attorney Mary Nerino of the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. Please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn for more information.
Springfield Man Charged as a Drug User in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Paul Lachapelle Jr., 26, of Springfield, Vermont, appeared today in federal court on charges that on May 30, 2022, he possessed a firearm while being an unlawful user of a controlled substance. Lachapelle pleaded not guilty at his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle and was detained pending further proceedings in the case.
According to court records, on May 30, 2022, Springfield Police responded to a residence to address a possible burglary in progress by an individual with a handgun holstered to his hip. Springfield Police encountered Lachapelle outside the residence and learned information indicating that Lachapelle threw a handgun into a tall grassy area nearby. Springfield Police searched that area and recovered a .22 caliber revolver with a holster. According to the complaint affidavit, Lachapelle has been an unlawful user of and addicted to controlled substances dating back to September 2021 and continuing into May of 2022.
The charge in the complaint is an accusation only, and Lachapelle is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted of the charged offense, Lachapelle could face up to ten years in prison along with a period of federal supervised release that could include requirements for substance abuse treatment. Any sentence would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and consideration of Lachapelle’s personal history and characteristics.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Vermont State Police, the Springfield Police Department, the Chester Police Department and the Ludlow Police Department. The United States is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Perella and Zachary Stendig. Lachapelle is represented by Michael Straub of Straub Law Offices.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. Please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn for more information.
Rutland Man Imprisoned Following Guilty Plea to String of Convenience Store RobberiesRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Joey Miles Sherwood, 31, of Rutland, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Burlington to 38 months’ imprisonment following his guilty plea to a charge that he robbed the Cumberland Farms convenience store in Wallingford, Vermont last August. As part of his plea agreement, Sherwood admitted to committing three additional convenience store robberies last August: the robbery of the Maplefields convenience store in Pittsford, the robbery of the Union Street Grocery in Brandon, and the attempted robbery of the Maplefields convenience store in Shoreham. U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss also ordered that Sherwood serve 3 years of supervised release following completion of his prison term and pay restitution in the amount of $746. Sherwood has been detained since he first appeared in federal court last September.
According to court records, Sherwood’s prosecution and conviction stemmed from an investigation into several convenience store robberies occurring in Rutland and Addison Counties during the months of July and August 2021. Additionally, according to court records, during each of the robberies to which Sherwood admitted, Sherwood entered the store, retrieved a beverage from a cooler, and approached the cashier. As the cashier rang up the sale, Sherwood demanded money and brandished a knife in the direction of the cashier. On August 30, 2021, Sherwood was arrested in Rutland. On September 2, 2021, a federal grand jury in Burlington returned an indictment charging Sherwood with the robbery of the Wallingford Cumberland Farms. In February of this year, Sherwood pleaded guilty to the Wallingford robbery and admitted to committing the Pittsford, Brandon, and Shoreham robberies.
United States Attorney Nikolas Kerest commended the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Vermont State Police, and the coordination and assistance provided by the Brandon Police Department, the Middlebury Police Department, the Rutland City Police Department, and the Rutland County Sheriff’s Department. U.S. Attorney Kerest stated, “This case exemplifies the type of important investigative and collaborative work that Vermont’s federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies do every day. Their collaborative efforts allow our office to prosecute individuals such as Joey Sherwood, whose actions sow unacceptable levels of fear and disorder in Vermont communities.”
Sherwood is represented by Assistant Federal Defender Sara Puls. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Ang.
Brattleboro Husband and Wife Charged with Firearm ViolationsRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that Joshua Stratton, 33, and his wife Sherrie Stratton, 31, both of Brattleboro, Vermont have been indicted by the federal grand jury for violations of federal firearms laws. Joshua Stratton was charged with being a felon in possession of firearms. Sherrie Stratton was charged with transferring firearms to her husband Joshua, knowing he was a convicted felon. Joshua Stratton was arraigned today on the indictment and ordered detained pending trial. Sherrie Stratton’s arraignment is scheduled for June 28, 2022.
According to court records, between November 11, 2021 and March 21, 2022, Sherrie Stratton transferred or otherwise disposed of three firearms to her husband: a Smith & Wesson M&P-15 .223 Rem AR-style rifle; a Komando (Turkey) DKSN XX3D 12-gauge shotgun, and a Savage Arms A17 .17 HMR rifle. Sherrie Stratton is alleged to have transferred the firearms to her husband despite knowing that her husband was a convicted felon. On March 21, 2022, a federal probation officer visited the Stratton home, observed the firearms, and seized them from the residence, as well as a Ruger 10/22 .22LR rifle.
At the time of the conduct, Joshua Stratton was serving a term of federal supervised release following his conviction in 2020 for being a felon in possession of firearms. According to court records from the previous federal prosecution, on June 30, 2019, Vermont State Police responded to reports of repeated gunfire near Putney, encountering Joshua and Sherrie Stratton and their small child at a makeshift firing range. The responding trooper observed 9 firearms (including handguns, shotguns, and an AR-style rifle) on the ground just behind the vehicle belonging to the Strattons. The trooper also observed boxes of ammunition and dozens of empty cartridge casings. Sherrie Stratton was interviewed at the scene, claimed ownership of the firearms, but made statements to the trooper consistent with Joshua Stratton possessing and shooting the firearms.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that both Joshua and Sherrie Stratton are presumed innocent until and unless convicted of a crime. Both Joshua and Sherrie Stratton face a maximum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory federal sentencing guidelines.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Ophardt. Joshua Stratton is represented by Natasha Sen, Esq. Sherrie Stratton is represented by William Kraham, Esq.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. Please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn for more information.
Vermont Residents Detained on Federal Drug Charges Arising from Middlebury IncidentRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Vermont residents Steven T. Browne, 37, of Shoreham, and Kayla Ramos, 22, of Rutland, have been detained in federal custody after their arraignment on a charge of possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute. According to the indictment returned by the grand jury, Browne and Ramos possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin on or about October 25, 2021. Browne and Ramos were arrested on June 8, 2022, pursuant to warrants issued in conjunction with the indictment. They were arraigned on June 9, 2022, before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on that charge, and they were held pending detention hearings. Browne and Ramos each appeared before Magistrate Judge Doyle for separate detention hearings today, and the Court ordered both defendants detained pending trial.
According to an affidavit filed with a criminal complaint earlier in the case, police officers encountered Browne and Ramos at a hotel in Middlebury, Vermont on October 25, 2021. Officers removed Browne and Ramos from the room while they applied for a warrant to search the room. While the officers applied for a warrant, Browne and Ramos made multiple attempts to reenter the room, including by trying to break through an outside window. A subsequent search of the room led to the seizure of more than 3 ounces of cocaine and more than 1,800 individual baggies containing fentanyl or a mixture of fentanyl and heroin.
The charge in the indictment brought against Browne and Ramos is an accusation only, and they are each presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in further proceedings. If convicted of the crime of possessing with the intent to distribute controlled substances in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a) and (b)(1)(C), both defendants would face a maximum possible penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. The actual sentences, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Middlebury Police Department (MPD) and the collaboration of investigators between MPD; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Office of the State’s Attorney for Addison County.
The United States is represented in this matter by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. Lasher. Steven Browne is represented by Robert Katims, Esq. Kayla Ramos is represented by John-Claude Charbonneau, Esq.
Two Time Federal Felon Sentenced to 37 Months’ Imprisonment for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on June 13, 2022, Kyle Tetreault, 31, formerly of Middlebury, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge William K. Sessions III to 37 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release. Tetreault also agreed to forfeit the firearms recovered from his residence. Tetreault had previously pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms, which carried a maximum sentence of up to 10 years’ imprisonment.
According to court records, on May 14, 2021, Special Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) assisted the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department in executing a search warrant at Kyle Tetreault’s residence in Middlebury. The search warrant related to an investigation into a number of state crimes committed by Tetreault, including, failure to report big game, illegal taking of big game, and petit larceny. During the search, investigators found ten firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. The firearms and ammunition were found throughout the house, some in plain view and others under household goods, such as the master bedroom mattress. Tetreault has multiple prior felony convictions and a 2015 federal felony conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm. This instant conviction is Tetreault’s second conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm.After Tetreault’s sentencing, Sergeant Robert Currier of the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department stated: “This case is an example of the Vermont Warden Service’s dedication to the protection of Vermont and its natural resources, which includes its strong working relationship with federal partners in law enforcement.”
This matter was investigated by the ATF and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the ATF and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department in the investigation and prosecution of Tetreault.
This case was prosecuted on behalf of the government by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy L. Fuller. Tetreault was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Mary Nerino.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. Please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn for more information.
Colchester Man Convicted of Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Carl Martin, 37, of Colchester, Vermont, was convicted on five of six counts on June 10, 2022, in United States District Court in Burlington, Vermont, following a five-day jury trial before United States District Judge William K. Sessions III.
In October 2020, Martin was charged in a multi-count federal grand jury indictment with participating in a conspiracy to sell cocaine from Fall 2018 to October 23, 2019, selling cocaine to an undercover agent of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) on four occasions in late 2019, and during one of those drug distributions, trading cocaine for a semiautomatic pistol. According to court records and proceedings, the drug undercover investigation resulting in the charges here followed an earlier investigation into Martin’s involvement in a shooting that occurred in front of Nectar’s, a restaurant in Burlington, in February 2018. The shooter in that incident, Rashad Nashid, was sentenced to 12 ½ years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of illegal firearm possession.
On June 10, 2022, the jury returned a verdict of guilty on five of six counts. The jury found Martin guilty on all counts except the count charging Martin with trading cocaine for a semiautomatic pistol. Judge Sessions ordered Martin to be detained after the jury returned its verdict and pending his sentencing.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the ATF, the Burlington Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Vermont State Police in the investigation and prosecution of Martin. United States Attorney Kerest also stated, “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to collaborate with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute drug traffickers who possess and use firearms in Vermont. Prosecution of firearm-related offenses remains one of our top priorities and we appreciate the diligent and courageous work of the officers throughout Vermont on these cases.”
Martin faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release of at least three years, and up to a $1,000,000 fine. Martin’s actual sentence, however, will be determined by the sentencing judge with guidance from the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The prosecution of Martin was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wendy L. Fuller, Andrew C. Gilman, and Owen C.J. Foster. Martin was represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. Please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn for more information.
Londonderry Man Sentenced for Using Residence for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Timothy J. (“TJ”) Slade, 30, of Londonderry, Vermont was sentenced to time served by Chief Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford in U.S. District Court in Rutland. Slade previously pleaded guilty to the felony charge of unlawfully maintaining his Londonderry residence for drug distribution from September 2016 through July 2017. Chief Judge Crawford also sentenced Slade to three years of supervised release.
The charge against Slade related to an investigation initiated by the Vermont State Police after Keith Johnson died following a heroin overdose in Londonderry in July 2017. The Court accepted the government’s time served recommendation, which was based in part on the age of the offense, the death of a key witness, and Slade’s own drug addiction and recovery in the time since the tragic overdose. According to court records, while there was some conflicting evidence, the government alleged that Slade likely sold heroin to Johnson the evening before his death. The government emphasized that the defendant’s good conduct since July 2017 does not remedy the horrific consequences of opiate trafficking on Vermont communities.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the Vermont State Police investigators on this case and stated, “Overdose deaths highlight the risks and damage associated with opiate use and distribution, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to take the prosecution of overdose cases seriously.”
This case was investigated by the Vermont State Police and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Perella. Slade is represented by Michael Desautels, Esq. of the Office of the Federal Public Defender in Burlington.
Williston, Vermont Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on June 7, 2022, Matthew Fidler, 35, of Williston, Vermont, was sentenced in United States District Court in Burlington, Vermont, to serve 100 months in prison after his guilty plea to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss also ordered Fidler to serve a five (5) year term of supervised release and to pay a $100 special assessment.
According to court records and proceedings, on February 9, 2021, officers with the South Burlington Police Department encountered Fidler in the parking lot of the Holiday Inn in South Burlington. When law enforcement attempted to confirm Fidler’s identity because he was the subject of two outstanding arrest warrants, Fidler attempted to flee. After a brief chase, Fidler was subdued and taken into custody. During a search of Fidler’s person incident to arrest, law enforcement found a loaded handgun and distribution quantities of what was determined to be methamphetamine and heroin.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the South Burlington Police Department, and the State of Vermont Department of Public Safety, Forensic Laboratory, in the investigation and prosecution of Fidler.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara A. Masterson handled the prosecution of Fidler. Brooks G. McArthur represented Fidler.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. https://www.justice.gov/psn
Milton, Vermont Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on June 7, 2022, Emanuel Dunn, 36, of Milton, Vermont, was sentenced in United States District Court in Burlington, Vermont, to serve 60 months in prison after his guilty plea to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, heroin, and fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss also ordered Dunn to serve a ten (10) year term of supervised release and to pay a $100 special assessment.
According to court records and proceedings, on July 11, 2019, a confidential informant (CI) working with the Northwest Vermont Drug Task Force (NW DTF) arranged to purchase a half-gram of cocaine base and a bundle of heroin from Dunn. Dunn instructed the CI to come to his residence in Winooski, Vermont, to pick up the drugs. The CI went to the residence, where he gave Dunn $160 and received cocaine base. Dunn and the CI drove to a location in Burlington, Vermont, to pick up the heroin, which Dunn then gave to the CI. The substances distributed by Dunn were determined to be cocaine base, heroin, and fentanyl.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of the Northwestern Vermont Drug Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the South Burlington Police Department, and the State of Vermont Department of Public Safety, Forensic Laboratory, in the investigation and prosecution of Dunn.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara A. Masterson handled the prosecution of Dunn. Robert W. Katims represented Dunn.
Two Franklin County Men Ordered to Pay $1,584 in Restitution and Fines for Abandoning Junk Boat in Missisquoi River on the National Wildlife RefugeRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on June 2, 2022 Wayne Bailey, 68, of Swanton and Louis Bates, 49, of St. Albans pleaded guilty to abandoning a junk boat and setting it adrift in the Missisquoi River on the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge. Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle ordered Bailey to pay $684 in restitution and a $300 fine and Bates to pay $400 in restitution and a $200 fine. The restitution reimburses the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) for the costs of disposing of the boat.
The offense is a Class B misdemeanor and carried a maximum penalty of six months in prison and a $5,000 fine. In determining the fine amount, Magistrate Judge Doyle considered the defendants’ limited means to pay a larger fine.
According to court records, in the early summer of 2021, Wayne Bailey bought a 19 ½ foot long Bayliner boat for $150. The boat was manufactured in 1989. Bailey removed the engine from the boat and sold the engine. Rather than paying to dispose of the boat properly, Bailey devised a plan to set the junk boat adrift in the Missisquoi River. Bailey, however, did not have a tow hitch on his vehicle so he recruited Bates to use Bates’s truck to tow the boat to the Missisquoi River.
After dark on the evening of July 15, 2021, Bates towed the boat to Louie’s Landing boat ramp on the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, and Bailey followed in his own vehicle. Bates then backed the boat trailer into the river, and Bailey unhooked the boat and set it adrift. The next day FWS personnel discovered the boat. The engine was gone, but the remaining gas tank contained 4 ½ gallons of gas. The FWS incurred about $1,084 in costs for the proper disposal of the boat and the associated administrative expenses.
The following two photographs are of the boat in the Missisquoi River.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest stated that the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to vigorously enforcing our federal environmental laws, which protect and preserve our public lands and waterways for all to enjoy. Enforcement is particularly important in cases such as this where the evidence established that the defendants displayed a callous disrespect for the Vermont environment.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Perella. Wayne Bailey was represented by Mary Nerino, Esq. of the Office of the Federal Public Defender and Louis Bates was represented by Michael Straub, Esq.
Bennington Man Charged with Federal Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Deven Moffitt, 32, of Bennington, Vermont, was charged today by criminal complaint with three federal felonies: possession with intent to distribute controlled substances; possession of a firearm having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by a prison term of more than a year; and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to the affidavit accompanying the criminal complaint, on Wednesday, June 1, Moffitt fled as police tried to arrest him in connection with his prosecution by the Bennington County State’s Attorney relating to the 2019 murder of Jessica Hildenbrandt. As Moffitt was trying to flee from police, a witness observed him place a bag inside a trash container. A search of that bag revealed more than 3,000 bags of suspected fentanyl, and distribution quantities of powder and crack cocaine. Within the bag, police also found two loaded handguns. When Moffitt was apprehended, police also found that he was in possession of more than $16,000 in cash.
Moffitt is currently in the custody of the State of Vermont in connection with the murder charge. The date of his initial appearance in federal court has not been set.
The complaint is an accusation only and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted of all the charged federal offenses, Moffitt faces a mandatory minimum prison sentence of five years and up to lifetime incarceration. If he is convicted, his federal sentence would be informed by the application of the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
The case was investigated by Vermont State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Homeland Security Investigations; and the Bennington Police Department.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. https://www.justice.gov/psn