District of Vermont
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Indian National Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on February 3, 2025, Nitin Mishra, 33, of Jaipur, India, was sentenced for conspiring to distribute controlled substances and distributing controlled substances, including the opioids Tapentadol and Tramadol, in connection with his involvement in an international drug trafficking operation. Mishra had been extradited from Albania to the United States to face these charges. United States District Judge William K. Sessions III sentenced Mishra, who had already spent approximately 28 months in custody, to time served and ordered the defendant to pay $7,300 in forfeiture.
According to court records, from around the beginning of 2019 through about June 2021, Mishra, who was based in India, conspired with two Vermont residents, among other individuals, to send multiple shipments of controlled substances, including opioids and misbranded drugs, into the United States. Mishra then worked with his co-conspirators to reship and distribute these drugs to individuals located throughout the United States. The investigation revealed that the conspiracy involved tens of thousands of pills, and included the Schedule II controlled substance Tapentadol, as well as the Schedule IV controlled substances, Tramadol, Carisoprodol, and Zolpidem.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Rutland City Police Department.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Mishra is represented by Robert L. Sussman, Esq.
California Man Sentenced for Selling Unapproved Drugs with Intent to Defraud over the InternetRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on February 3, 2025, Jeremy Brown, 55, of Simi Valley, California, was sentenced for introducing into interstate commerce new drugs not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) with the intent to defraud or mislead. The Honorable Christina Reiss, Chief United States District Judge, sentenced the defendant to one year of supervised release and ordered the defendant to pay $100,000 in forfeiture.
According to court records, between March 2019 and December 2023, Brown operated a company, Warrior Labz SARMs, and accompanying websites through which he sold unapproved versions of prescription drugs and other substances. Specifically, Brown sold Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (“SARMs”), which are substances similar to anabolic steroids; unapproved versions of erectile-dysfunction drugs Viagra and Cialis; and unapproved versions of weight-loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus.
Brown falsely claimed on his websites that the drugs offered for sale were for “research purposes only” and “not for human consumption.” Alongside those claims, however, were claims that the drugs would provide various benefits affecting the structure and function of the human body.
Brown obtained the bulk of the drugs he sold from China. Brown did not verify shipping or storage conditions, nor did he use a lab to verify the contents of the drugs he received from China. But he falsely claimed on his websites that his company used only the highest quality pharmaceutical grade ingredients and U.S. manufacturing practices.
After receiving a warning letter from the FDA in June 2023, Brown continued to sell unapproved drugs over the internet. Between August and December 2023, Brown made three sales of unapproved drugs to an undercover law enforcement account in Vermont.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Food and Drug Administration and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Corinne Smith. Brown is represented by Rick Collins, Esq. and Lisa Shelkrot, Esq.
Birmingham, Alabama Man Charged with Wire Fraud in Connection with Alleged Romance Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on January 2, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Cedric Wormely, 58, of Birmingham, Alabama, with ten counts of wire fraud in connection with an alleged romance fraud scheme. Wormely had been previously charged by criminal complaint in September 2024.
Wormely entered a plea of not guilty during an arraignment on February 3, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Wormely be detained during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, Wormely is alleged to have devised a scheme to defraud a Vermont-based victim by inducing her to send him money by falsely presenting himself as a New England man who lived in the Cumberland, Maine area, who had been employed for decades, and who had a romantic interest in the victim. In or around July 2022, Wormely met the victim online via an online dating website. The two began what the victim believed to be a genuine romantic relationship. Wormely allegedly told the victim that while he had a pension, he was having difficulty accessing it and needed the victim’s financial support for a large construction job that he had taken on in Mississippi. Based on promises that Wormely would repay her, and the victim’s belief that Wormely’s romantic intentions and business opportunities were legitimate, the victim transferred over $100,000 to Wormely via money transfer applications and wire transfers.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Wormely is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Wormely faces up to twenty years’ incarceration and a fine up to $250,000 if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Secret Service.
The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan Ophardt and Michelle Arra. Wormely is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth.
The United States Secret Service and the United States Attorney’s Office encourage any individual who believes they may have been a victim of similar offenses to contact the United States Secret Service via email at [email protected] or by telephone at (802) 651-4091.
Andrew Hollins Imprisoned Following Guilty Pleas to Pandemic Fraud and Narcotics IndictmentsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont - The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Andrew Hollins, who has also been known as Andrew Jones, 38, of Colchester, Vermont and New York City, was sentenced on January 31, 2024 in United States District Court in Burlington to 62 months of imprisonment following his guilty pleas to two separate indictments charging him with narcotics trafficking, wire fraud and money laundering. Chief U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss ordered that Hollins serve three years of supervised release following completion of his prison term and pay restitution in the amount of $33,000. The court ordered that Hollins’ federal sentence run concurrently with a 2 to 4-year sentence Hollins is currently serving in New York State on two gun charges.
In December 2022, a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment alleging that Hollins distributed cocaine on three dates in late 2019. At the same time, the grand jury returned a separate indictment charging Hollins with fraud, money laundering and identity theft in connection with a series of pandemic-related Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) applications he submitted to the U.S. Small Business Administration in July and August 2020. Under the EIDL loan program, the SBA provides low-interest loans to businesses and persons that have suffered financial hardship because of a natural disaster, such as the Coronavirus pandemic.
According to the indictment, Hollins applied for eight EIDL loans in mid-2020 in his own name, in the names of two shell businesses he founded, in the names of two relatives and in the names of three persons whose identities Hollins stole. Some of the loans were funded by SBA, while others were rejected. The applications were fraudulent because they contained materially false statements about when the businesses were established, about the companies’ gross receipts in the preceding year, about the number of employees each business had and the physical location of the businesses. The SBA rejected most of the loan applications because it suspected fraud. However, two loans were funded, or partially funded, in the amount of $33,000.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations.
Hollins is represented by Federal Public Defender Michael Desautels. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
Venezuelan Man Charged with Being in the United States Illegally After Having Been Previously Removed by Immigration OfficialsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Jorge Humberto Moreno Martinez, 34, of Venezuela, has been charged by criminal complaint with being unlawfully present in the United States after having been previously removed by immigration officials.
On January 28, 2025, Moreno appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Moreno be detained during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, Moreno was previously removed from the United States by immigration officials on November 15, 2016, after he completed a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence following his New York felony conviction for burglary in the second degree. At that time, Moreno was advised and acknowledged that due to his criminal history he was prohibited from entering or attempting to enter the United States. Despite that warning, Moreno re-entered the United States and his presence in the country thereafter was in violation of U.S. law.
Court records also state that when agents from the Department of Homeland Security attempted to arrest Moreno at a parking lot in Williston, Vermont, on January 27, 2025, Moreno fled in a vehicle, hitting three law enforcement vehicles before travelling at more than 100 miles per hour on a busy street before he was apprehended. As he drove, items were discarded from Moreno’s vehicle. Law enforcement recovered some of those items, which tested presumptively positive for cocaine base and cocaine.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Moreno is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Moreno faces up to 20 years’ incarceration if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Department of Homeland Security, including its Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI"), Enforcement and Removal Operations (“ERO”), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP”) divisions, with assistance from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”).
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Colin Owyang. Moreno is represented by Brooks McArthur, Esq.
Washington, DC Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Aggravated Identity Theft CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on January 28, 2025, Andrew Chaves, 25, of Washington, DC, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of two years’ imprisonment to be followed by a one-year term of supervised release. Chaves previously pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft.
According to court records, Chaves stole two federal government vehicles from November 2023 to January 2024. He took one vehicle from a U.S. Forest Service facility in Manchester, Vermont and another from a U.S. Army facility in Lodi, New Jersey. Chaves drove both vehicles through multiple states, including Vermont, while making unauthorized purchases on credit cards he had stolen. As part of his plea, Chaves has agreed to pay over $25,000 in restitution to the United States government and his other victims. The statute of conviction prescribes a mandatory sentence of two years’ imprisonment consecutive to all other sentences. Chaves has pending state charges in Vermont, Pennsylvania and Washington, DC.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, the U.S. General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General, the United States Forest Service, the Vermont State Police, the U.S. Marshals Service and the U.S. Federal Protective Service.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Owyang. Chaves was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara Puls and defense attorney Sarah Star, Esq.
Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Immigration OffensesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that Saul Mazariegos-Estrada, 29, of El Tejar, Guatemala, has been charged by criminal complaint with the illegal transportation of aliens, and that Byron Sicajau Socoy, 40, of El Tejar, Guatemala, and Christian Rafael Hernandez Villa, 34, of Jalisco, Mexico, have been charged by criminal complaint with being aliens who eluded examination or inspection by immigration officers. The term “alien” is defined by statute to mean a person who is not a citizen or national of the United States.
On January 27, 2025, all three defendants appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Mazariegos-Estrada be detained pending a detention hearing. At their initial appearances, Sicajau Socoy and Hernandez Villa pleaded guilty to the allegations in their respective criminal complaints and received time-served sentences. Sicajau Socoy and Hernandez Villa had faced up to 6 months’ imprisonment.
According to court records, on January 25, 2025, at approximately 9:15 a.m., U.S. Border Patrol agents received a report from a concerned citizen who had observed multiple subjects crossing a remote dirt road approximately one mile south of the United States-Canada border in the area of Newport, Vermont.
Border Patrol agents responded to the area and discovered footprints in the snow where the concerned citizen had reported the crossing. Shortly thereafter, Border Patrol agents conducting surveillance in the area observed a vehicle travelling at a high rate of speed on a remote driveway. Border Patrol agents began following the vehicle, which had Virginia license plates. Agents observed multiple individuals in the back seat and noted that the windows of the vehicle were foggy, which to the agents indicated that the passengers had been exhausting energy, features which the agents had observed in multiple other human smuggling events.
Border Patrol agents stopped the vehicle and encountered, in the front seat, Mazariegos-Estrada, who stated that he was a Guatemalan citizen and that he did not possess immigration documents to enter or remain in the United States. In the rear, agents encountered Sicajau Socoy and Hernandez Villa, who both admitted to illegally entering the United States and that neither had immigration documents allowing them to enter or remain in the United States. All three were taken into custody and transported to the Border Patrol Station.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a criminal complaint contains allegations only and that Mazariegos-Estrada is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Mazariegos-Estrada faces up to five years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.
The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan A. Ophardt and Andrew C. Gilman. Mazariegos-Estrada is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon. Sicajau Socoy was represented by Jason J. Sawyer, Esq., and Hernandez Villa was represented by Kevin M. Henry, Esq.
Jamontay Brister Imprisoned for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont announced that Jamontay Brister, 29, of Queens, New York, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Burlington to 54 months of imprisonment following his guilty plea to charges that he conspired to distribute fentanyl and cocaine and possessed a firearm as a convicted felon. Chief U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss also ordered that Brister serve a three-year term of supervised release following completion of his prison sentence. Brister has been detained without bail since his arrest last July.
According to court records, in June 2024, Burlington Police Department drug investigators and DEA Task Force officers made three controlled purchases of fentanyl from Brister utilizing a confidential source. In July, officers obtained a state court warrant to search the Burlington apartment within which Brister had rented a room. They executed the warrant on the morning of July 17 and arrested Brister, who was alone in a locked bedroom. During the search of Brister’s bedroom, officers recovered more than 950 grams of cocaine, more than 150 grams of fentanyl, about $10,000 in cash and a handgun. Brister is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has a prior attempted robbery conviction in New York state.
This case was investigated by the Burlington Police Department’s Narcotics Unit and the DEA Task Force.
Brister is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara Puls. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Windsor County Man Charged with Being a Felon in Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on January 16, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Kyle Pickett, 30, of Windsor County, Vermont, with being a felon in possession of two firearms.
Pickett entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on January 23, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Jerome J. Niedermeier. Judge Niedermeier ordered that Pickett be detained during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, on November 25, 2023, Pickett possessed two loaded firearms, a Winchester Model 62 .22 rifle and a Winchester Model 42 410 shotgun, in a Ford Ranger pick-up truck, which had been stolen from a residence in Orange County, Vermont. Pickett had multiple prior felony convictions, and thus was prohibited from possessing those firearms.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Pickett is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Pickett faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and the Windsor County Sheriff’s Department.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Pickett is represented by Sara M. Puls, Assistant 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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Morrisville, Vermont Man Sentenced to 18 Months of Incarceration in Firearm Possession CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on January 23, 2025, Jordan Phelps, 36, of Morrisville, Vermont was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to 18 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Phelps previously pleaded guilty to being an unlawful user of controlled substances, specifically cocaine base, in possession of a firearm.
According to court records, on March 11, 2024, Jordan Phelps called the Morristown Police Department on four occasions and threatened to go to the home of a sworn member of law enforcement. The threatening phone calls were recorded, and law enforcement investigated Phelps. The investigation demonstrated that Phelps sought to go to the officer’s home in response to what Phelps considered was unlawful surveillance of his activities. On March 13, 2024, law enforcement executed a state search warrant at Phelps’ residence that led to the seizure of a loaded Marlin Model 336 .30-30 Caliber Rifle from Phelps’ bedroom. Further investigation into Phelps revealed that he was an unlawful user of controlled substances.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Morristown Police Department, the Stowe Police Department, the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department, and the Vermont State Police.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Stendig. Phelps was represented by Chandler Matson, 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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Woman Charged with Discharging Firearm During Assault of United States Border Patrol AgentRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Teresa Youngblut, 21, and who is believed to be from Washington state, has been charged by criminal complaint with one count of using a deadly weapon while assaulting a United States Border Patrol agent, and one count of using and discharging a firearm during and in relation to that assault. Her initial court appearance has not yet been scheduled.
According to the charging affidavit, during the afternoon of January 20, 2025, a United States Border Patrol agent initiated a traffic stop of a Toyota Prius on Interstate 91 in Coventry, Vermont. The car was occupied by Youngblut and a man who was a citizen of Germany and whose immigration status was in question. Youngblut and her companion had come to the attention of law enforcement a few days earlier when a hotel employee in Lyndonville expressed concern about them being dressed in tactical clothing and protective gear, while also being armed. Law enforcement also observed the couple in the Prius earlier on January 20 at a Walmart parking lot in Newport, Vermont. At that time, the German man was seen wrapping unidentifiable objects with aluminum foil while seated in the vehicle.
According to the affidavit, during the January 20 vehicle stop, both Youngblut and her companion were armed. During the stop, Youngblut fired her handgun without warning toward at least one of the Border Patrol Agents while outside the vehicle. Her German companion also tried to draw a firearm, and at least one Border Patrol Agent fired his service weapon. The exchange of gunfire resulted in Border Patrol Agent David Maland sustaining fatal injuries. Youngblut and her companion were also shot. The German man was pronounced dead at the scene, and Youngblut was taken to the hospital for medical care.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing. It is being led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with substantial assistance from the Vermont State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, in coordination with Homeland Security Investigations, United States Border Patrol, the Newport, Vermont, Police Department, and the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher stated: “The events leading to this prosecution tragically demonstrate how the men and women of law enforcement regularly put their lives on the line as they try to keep our communities and our country safe. The United States Attorney’s Office is deeply grateful for those with the courage to do such dangerous work. We intend to honor them, and the memory of Border Patrol Agent Maland, by performing our prosecutorial duties so that justice may be done.” Drescher also commended the investigative collaboration demonstrated by the FBI, Vermont State Police, ATF, and the other agencies involved.
Craig Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albany Field Office, stated: “Agent Maland bravely served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. He continued that service when he answered the call to protect and serve as a law enforcement officer, making him a shining example of service over self. This arrest proves the FBI, together with our partners, will work diligently to ensure any individual who uses a firearm to assault such a public servant will be brought to justice.”
“The senseless and tragic killing of a United States Border Patrol agent is a stark reminder of the immense sacrifices law enforcement officers make to protect our nation,” said James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of ATF Boston Field Division. “ATF stands resolute with our partners to bring justice to the individual responsible. Our deepest condolences go out to the agent’s family, colleagues, and all who are grieving this profound loss.”
Chief United States Border Patrol Agent Robert Garcia stated: “We appreciate all our law enforcement partners' response to this tragic event as we continue our mission of protecting this nation’s border and ensuring public safety.”
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations and that Youngblut is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Youngblut faces a maximum prison sentence of life and a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years if convicted of the charges in the complaint. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Lasher. Youngblut is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
Windsor, Vermont Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Gun CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on January 21, 2025, Ryan Buckley, 36, of Windsor, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 46 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Buckley previously pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm after previously having been convicted of a felony.
According to court records, police found Buckley passed out with a loaded handgun in his lap while parked in his pickup truck at the community baseball field in Cheshire, Vermont. When police woke him, Buckley grasped the handgun and put his truck into gear before police successfully disarmed Buckley without anyone getting hurt. Buckley admitted that he had just smoked methamphetamine which police recovered in his pickup truck. As part of his plea agreement, Buckley also admitted to possessing another 18 firearms, some of them stolen.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Chester, Vermont Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Owyang. Buckley was represented by Michael 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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Hartford, Connecticut Man Charged with Violations of the Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on January 16, 2025, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Christopher Stephens, 38, of Hartford, Connecticut with distribution of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Stephens entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on January 16, 2025 before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. On January 17, 2025, Judge Doyle ordered that Stephens be detained during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, on three occasions between June 11, 2024 and July 23, 2024, Stephens sold fentanyl to an individual who was working on behalf of law enforcement. Those drug sales occurred in Burlington, Vermont. On June 23, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a hotel where Stephens was staying in Shelburne, Vermont. Inside of that hotel, law enforcement found fentanyl packaged for street level distribution. Stephens was arrested on January 16, 2025, inside of a residence in Burlington, Vermont. From the room where law enforcement found Stephens, law enforcement also recovered a Walther .380 caliber firearm with a loaded magazine.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Stephens is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Stephens faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment on each count if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Burlington Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Vermont State Police.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Stendig. Stephens is represented by Barclay Johnson, 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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Barre, Vermont Woman Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud of Elder VictimRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on January 17, 2025, Jessica Russell, 42, of Barre, Vermont, pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to two counts of wire fraud.
According to court records, Russell defrauded an elderly Vermont victim of over $84,000. Russell befriended her victim who had lost a son. Russell built rapport with the victim by calling her “mom” and falsely telling her that Russell herself had lost a child. The elderly victim gave Russell a power of attorney, but it only authorized Russell to take legal actions that the victim would have taken, if they were able. As the elderly victim’s health and mental state declined, Russell opened a joint checking account with the victim. That account was funded with over $132,000 that came from the sale of the victim’s home. Of that money, Russell used $68,000 to buy a house in Barton, Vermont and over $16,000 to buy a 2017 Mitsubishi SUV. Russell put the house in her own name, falsely telling other people that she had bought it with her own money or that she had inherited it. Russell put the SUV in her name as well. Last year, Russell communicated with a car dealership about making repairs to the SUV which she continued to represent as belonging to her.
A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for June 12, 2025, in Burlington.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and Vermont State Police.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Owyang. Russell is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara Puls.
Queens, New York Man Sentenced to 18 Months for Human SmugglingRead the Press Release
Rutland, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on January 9, 2025, Luis Fernando Barragan-Palacios, 29, of Queens, New York, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to a term of 18 months’ imprisonment. The Court did not impose supervised release because Barragan-Palacios, originally of Oaxaca, Mexico, is expected to be deported after imprisonment. Barragan-Palacios previously pleaded guilty to conspiring with others to transport people who had entered the United States illegally.
According to court records, Barragan-Palacios completed approximately 30 smuggling trips, shuttling nearly 100 migrants who entered the country illegally from the Canadian border into Vermont, to the New York City area between August 2023 and January 2024, receiving approximately $500,000 in proceeds. In January 2024, authorities arrested Barragan-Palacios after he failed to yield to a marked Border Patrol vehicle and initiated a high-speed pursuit in wintry road conditions along the Canadian border, reaching speeds up to 85 mph, with six migrants lying down in the bed of his rented pickup truck or seated unbelted in the truck’s cab.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Lasher and Colin Owyang. Barragan-Palacios was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Barclay Johnson.
Phoenix, Arizona Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Methamphetamine Distribution Conspiracy CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on January 6, 2025, Luis Angel Gerardo Urias, 27, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 70 months’ imprisonment. Gerardo Urias previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court records, Gerardo Urias and his co-conspirators participated in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy that extended from Arizona to Vermont and involved the distribution of over 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine. The investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations revealed that Gerardo Urias and his co-conspirators shipped methamphetamine to Vermont, distributed methamphetamine to an undercover agent in Arizona, and received drug proceeds in cash as well as via money transfer services from Vermont. On March 15, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Gerardo Urias’s residence in Phoenix, Arizona. During the search, law enforcement recovered two firearms that Gerardo Urias possessed: a 9mm semi-automatic handgun and an assault-style rifle, as well as ammunition for those respective firearms.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, United States Border Patrol, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Winooski Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Gerardo Urias was represented by Karen R. Shingler, Esq.
Justice Department Secures Agreement with Vermont School District to Remedy Race-Based Harassment of StudentsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Justice Department today announced a settlement agreement with the Elmore-Morristown Unified Union School District (EMUU) in Vermont to resolve its investigation into allegations that the district failed to adequately respond to student-on-student racial harassment.
The investigation, conducted jointly by the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont, concluded that the district did not appropriately respond to serious and widespread harassment of Black and biracial students by their peers, primarily at Peoples Academy Middle Level. Harassed students endured frequent slurs and racist imagery, and a hostile environment where the use of the N-word and displays of confederate flags and Nazi symbols and salutes were commonplace.
“Racial harassment makes students feel unsafe, deprives them of a supportive educational environment and violates the Constitution’s most basic promise of equal protection,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “In the 21st century, no student should be subjected to racial slurs, Nazi salutes or other racially-charged hostilities. This agreement provides sound strategies for preventing and addressing racial harassment. We look forward to the district demonstrating to its students that racial bullying and harassment have no place in its schools.”
“This settlement represents an important step towards ensuring that students of the Elmore-Morristown Unified Union School District are able to attend school without the fear of racial harassment,” said U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest for the District of Vermont. “The measures set forth in the settlement will help guide the school district towards swift and appropriate responses should any instances of racial bullying or harassment occur. In addition, all Vermont school administrators must take note. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to ensuring that our schools are free from racial harassment and will take action if school districts are not addressing this destructive behavior.”
The department opened its investigation in December 2023 under Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The department reviewed records and complaints from three school years, beginning with the 2021-22 school year, and interviewed administrators, teachers and parents.
The district cooperated fully throughout the investigation and has already implemented some improvements, including adoption of a central reporting system it plans to use to track harassment incidents and ensure victims of repeated harassment are not overlooked.
Under the agreement, EMUU will:
- Revise its anti-harassment policies and procedures to clarify that they cover conduct that is not directly aimed at a specific student but contributes to a hostile environment;
- Annually conduct multifaceted campus climate assessments, including listening sessions with student groups, and take responsive action to address identified concerns; and
- Educate students and train employees on the district’s policies and procedures for addressing race-based harassment.
Protecting the constitutional rights of public-school students is a top priority of the Civil Rights Division. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available at www.justice.gov/crt/ and additional information about the Civil Rights Division’s Educational Opportunities Section’s work is available at www.justice.gov/crt/educational-opportunities-section. Information about the District of Vermont’s Civil Rights Program is available at www.justice.gov/usao-vt/civil-rights-program.
To report a possible civil rights violation, please visit www.civilrights.justice.gov/.
Justice Department Secures Agreement with Vermont School District to Remedy Race-Based Harassment of StudentsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced a settlement agreement with the Elmore-Morristown Unified Union School District (EMUU) in Vermont to resolve its investigation into allegations that the district failed to adequately respond to student-on-student racial harassment.
The investigation, conducted jointly by the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont, concluded that the district did not appropriately respond to serious and widespread harassment of Black and biracial students by their peers, primarily at Peoples Academy Middle Level. Harassed students endured frequent slurs and racist imagery, and a hostile environment where the use of the N-word and displays of confederate flags and Nazi symbols and salutes were commonplace.
“Racial harassment makes students feel unsafe, deprives them of a supportive educational environment and violates the Constitution’s most basic promise of equal protection,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “In the 21st century, no student should be subjected to racial slurs, Nazi salutes or other racially-charged hostilities. This agreement provides sound strategies for preventing and addressing racial harassment. We look forward to the district demonstrating to its students that racial bullying and harassment have no place in its schools.”
“This settlement represents an important step towards ensuring that students of the Elmore-Morristown Unified Union School District are able to attend school without the fear of racial harassment,” said U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest for the District of Vermont. “The measures set forth in the settlement will help guide the school district towards swift and appropriate responses should any instances of racial bullying or harassment occur. In addition, all Vermont school administrators must take note. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to ensuring that our schools are free from racial harassment and will take action if school districts are not addressing this destructive behavior.”
The department opened its investigation in December 2023 under Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The department reviewed records and complaints from three school years, beginning with the 2021-22 school year, and interviewed administrators, teachers and parents.
The district cooperated fully throughout the investigation and has already implemented some improvements, including adoption of a central reporting system it plans to use to track harassment incidents and ensure victims of repeated harassment are not overlooked.
Under the agreement, EMUU will:
- Revise its anti-harassment policies and procedures to clarify that they cover conduct that is not directly aimed at a specific student but contributes to a hostile environment;
- Annually conduct multifaceted campus climate assessments, including listening sessions with student groups, and take responsive action to address identified concerns; and
- Educate students and train employees on the district’s policies and procedures for addressing race-based harassment.
Protecting the constitutional rights of public-school students is a top priority of the Civil Rights Division. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available at www.justive.gov/crt/ and additional information about the Civil Rights Division’s Educational Opportunities Section’s work is available at www.justice.gov/crt/educational-opportunities-section. Information about the District of Vermont’s Civil Rights Program is available at www.justice.gov/usao-vt/civil-rights-program.
To report a possible civil rights violation, please visit www.civilrights.justice.gov/.
Burlington, Vermont Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Attempted Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on January 7, 2025, Raul Velez, 55, of Burlington, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mae D’Agostino to a term of 24 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Velez previously pleaded guilty to attempted possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.
According to court records, in March 2024, Velez arranged to obtain more than 1,000 grams of cocaine via the U.S. Mail. The package containing that cocaine, which was addressed to Velez at a hotel in Shelburne, Vermont, was intercepted by law enforcement. Investigators then coordinated a controlled delivery of the parcel, which did not contain any cocaine, to Velez on March 7, 2024. Following that delivery, Velez obtained the parcel from his hotel room in Shelburne. Velez intended to distribute the cocaine that he thought was inside of the package, which was roughly one kilogram in total weight.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Shelburne Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Barbara Masterson and Zachary Stendig. Velez was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Emily Kenyon.
United States Attorney Nikolas Kerest Submits ResignationRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – United States Attorney Nikolas Kerest announced today that he will resign effective January 20, 2025.
Following his nomination by President Biden and confirmation by the Senate, Mr. Kerest has served as the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont since December 10, 2021, leading the United States Attorney’s Office’s 51 employees, in the enforcement of federal criminal and civil laws in the state. Prior to becoming United States Attorney, Mr. Kerest served as an Assistant United States Attorney in both the criminal and civil divisions for eleven years, including 4.5 years as the Chief of the office’s civil division.
Mr. Kerest stated, “Representing the United States as a member of the U.S. Attorney’s Office team for over fourteen years and as its leader for the past three years has been the highlight of my career. Public service is a gift, and I will forever be grateful to have had the chance to work towards a better Vermont – one that is safer for its residents, one in which civil rights are upheld, and one in which the rule of law is respected. The criminal and civil Assistant U.S. Attorneys, administrative staff, and support staff who constitute the small but mighty U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont are unmatched public servants, and I know they will continue to pursue justice without fear or favor and achieve great results in the years ahead.”
During the past three years, the United States Attorney’s Office redoubled its efforts to address violent crime. With strong law enforcement partnerships across Vermont, the Office prosecuted illegal gun possessions at an increased rate. In particular, the U.S. Attorney’s Office supported the efforts of the Chittenden County Gun Violence Task Force, worked hand in hand with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and other law enforcement partners in prosecutions arising out of Bennington and Rutland counties, and provided significant prosecutorial resources to address violence in the Northeast Kingdom. Examples of the Office’s steadfast approach to curbing violent crime are the prosecutions of Everett Simpson, Lawrence Jackson, Carl Martin, Dominique Troupe, Deven Moffitt, and Sean Fiore. In addition to increased violent crime prosecutions, the U.S. Attorney’s Office initiated and promoted safe gun storage in partnership with the Vermont State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the UVM Medical Center, and other partners supporting the www.gunsafevt.org website.
Under Kerest’s leadership, the U.S. Attorney’s Office focused on enforcing federal civil rights laws, as well as educating Vermonters about their rights under these laws. Through its United Against Hate program, the Office provided outreach and education about federal civil rights laws to high school students all around Vermont. The Office also maintained strong relationships with Vermont’s faith communities by providing regular civil rights outreach. In addition, the Office’s civil rights program has paid close attention to civil rights violations in Vermont schools. The Twin Valley and Stepping Stones settlements are specific examples of this important work.
For the past three years, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has also taken significant steps to address elder financial fraud in Vermont. The prosecutions of Nicholas Melanson and Nasir Hussain are prime examples of the Office holding elder fraud perpetrators responsible for their harmful conduct. In addition, in partnership with the U.S. Secret Service, HSI, and Diplomatic Security Service, Mr. Kerest led numerous events providing education and tips to avoid becoming a victim to Vermont’s elder community.
Under Kerest’s leadership, the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s civil division continued to be a nationwide leader. On the defensive side of the docket, the Office successfully represented the Federal Highway Administration against challenges to the construction of Burlington’s Champlain Parkway. The civil division’s work fighting fraud and recovering damages continued to set the standard for small-sized U.S. Attorney’s Offices. In particular, the office was responsible for a ground-breaking Controlled Substances Act settlement with eBay, along with recoveries from NextGen, an electronic health records company, and Vermont defense contractors (Preci, Galvion, and Revision).
Mr. Kerest also thanked the many federal, state, county, and local law enforcement agencies, as well as community groups who partner with the United States Attorney’s Office. “The partnerships the U.S. Attorney’s Office enjoys throughout Vermont are vital to the success of our work and the work of all law enforcement. Support for law enforcement and collaboration is necessary to achieve a better Vermont. I am thankful for all of our partners and will look back fondly on the relationships fostered and created during my tenure as U.S. Attorney.”
First Assistant United States Attorney Michael Drescher, who has served the Office as a civil and criminal AUSA for over 22 years, will become Acting United States Attorney for the District of Vermont upon Mr. Kerest’s departure.
Kerest has not yet determined his future professional plans.
Holyoke, Massachusetts Man Sentenced to 85 Months in Armed Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on December 23, 2024, Javon Calderon, 21, of Holyoke, Massachusetts, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 85 months’ imprisonment to be followed by an 8-year term of supervised release. Calderon previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine and to using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
According to court records, Calderon and co-defendant Christopher Morgan spent substantial time in Bennington, Vermont, in 2022 distributing fentanyl and cocaine. During a portion of that time, Calderon and Morgan were hosted by co-defendants and Bennington residents Shavonne Doucette and Kyle Winnie. Calderon and Morgan employed locals to sell drugs for them. Doucette and Winnie also occasionally sold drugs for Calderon and Morgan.
In early September 2022, inside the Doucette/Winnie residence, Calderon and Morgan threatened with firearms and assaulted one such local distributor over a drug debt. Portions of the assault were captured on video and depicted Calderon striking and threatening the victim and holding a firearm to the victim’s neck while making threats. The video also depicted Morgan pointing a firearm at the victim and issuing threats. The victim sustained scalp injuries that required staples.
Like Calderon, Morgan has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine and to using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. Morgan’s sentencing is scheduled for March 13, 2025. Doucette and Winnie have pleaded guilty to making their residence available for the distribution of fentanyl and cocaine. Doucette’s sentencing is set for January 21, 2025, and Winnie’s sentencing is set for February 18, 2025.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the HSI Special Response Team, the Vermont State Police, the Bennington Police Department, the Bennington County Sheriff’s Department, the Rutland City Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corinne Smith. Calderon was represented by Devin McKnight, Esq; Morgan is represented by Peter Langrock, Esq.; Doucette is represented by Brooks McArthur, Esq.; Winnie is represented by Jordana Levine, 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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Colebrook, New Hampshire Man Charged with Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on December 19, 2024, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Joshua Hartness, age 45, of Colebrook, New Hampshire, with possession of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Hartness entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on December 20, 2024 before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Hartness be released on conditions. According to the indictment, Hartness allegedly possessed one or more images of CSAM between May 22 and August 26 in 2022.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Hartness is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Hartness faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Colin Owyang. Hartness is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Barclay Johnson.
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 the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section(CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Jeffersonville Husband and Wife Sentenced for Making False Statements in Acquisition of FirearmsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on December 17, 2024, Jacob McKenna, 38, of Jeffersonville, Vermont was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to time served to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Jacob McKenna previously pleaded guilty to making false statements in connection with his acquisition of a firearm.
According to court records, on October 28, 2022, Jacob McKenna went to a federal firearms licensee (FFL) in Williston, Vermont. There, he filled out a written ATF Form 4473 in connection with the purchase of a nine-millimeter pistol. On the form, Jacob McKenna falsely stated he was not a user of illegal drugs. Based on that false statement, Jacob McKenna obtained the pistol. On January 5, 2023, Jacob McKenna returned to the same FFL and tried to buy two more nine-millimeter pistols. When confronted about this conduct on January 6, 2023, Jacob McKenna admitted to purchasing firearms on several occasions intended for persons prohibited from lawfully possessing firearms.
On July 26, 2024, United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford sentenced Jacob McKenna’s wife, Tamira McKenna, 36, also of Jeffersonville, to time served to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release. Tamira McKenna also previously pleaded guilty to making false statements in acquisition of a firearm.
For her part, on March 10, 2022, Tamira McKenna went to the same FFL in Williston, Vermont, where, like her husband, in the course of acquiring a handgun, she filled out paperwork falsely stating she was not a user of illegal drugs. On January 5, 2023, Tamira McKenna returned to the same FFL and tried unsuccessfully to buy two more nine-millimeter pistols, and again lied on an ATF Form 4473. The next day, during an interview with law enforcement Tamira McKenna admitted to her use of controlled substances and that she intended to purchase the firearms to give them to a person prohibited from lawfully possessing firearms.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Burlington Police Department, the South Burlington Police Department, the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, the Milton Police Department, and the United States Marshal Service.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Stendig. Tamira McKenna was represented by Lisa Shelkrot, Esq. Jacob McKenna was represented by Robert Behrens, 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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Hartford, Connecticut Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Firearm Possession CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on December 16, 2024, Sharad Collier, 27, of Hartford, Connecticut, was sentenced by United States District Judge William K. Sessions III, to eighteen months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Sharad Collier previously pleaded guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
According to court records, on February 28, 2023, Collier fled from a residence in Morristown, Vermont where law enforcement arrested other individuals. Police tracked Collier to a nearby shed-like structure which the defendant refused to exit for approximately two hours. Eventually, Collier surrendered to the police. Police then obtained a warrant to search the residence from which Collier fled where they found a Glock Model 23 .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol in the bedroom previously occupied by Collier and from which Collier fled hours before he surrendered. Collier later admitted to investigators that he was an unlawful user of controlled substances in February 2023. He was therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm. The investigation into Collier further demonstrated that he was involved in trafficking cocaine base and fentanyl in Vermont in February of 2023.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Morristown Police Department, the Stowe Police Department, the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Department, and the Vermont State Police.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Stendig. Collier was represented by Allan Sullivan, 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 Justice.gov/PSN.
White River Junction Man Charged with Possession of an Unregistered SilencerRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that Joseph Vaillancourt, 42, of White River Junction, Vermont, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing a silencer that was neither registered to him nor identified by a serial number.
On December 16, 2024, Vaillancourt appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that Vaillancourt be detained pending further proceedings later this week.
According to court records, on October 18, 2024, Hartford, Vermont police located the silencer along with thirteen firearms and over 1,200 rounds of ammunition during the execution of a search of Vaillancourt’s residence pursuant to an unrelated state warrant. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) identified the silencer as subject to the National Firearms Act.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Vaillancourt is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Vaillancourt faces up to ten years in prison if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the ATF, the Hartford Police Department, and the Windsor County Sheriff’s Department.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Eugenia Cowles. Vaillancourt is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara Puls.
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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Revision Military to Pay $426,000 to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that Revision Military Ltd. (Revision) will pay $426,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by selling eyewear products that it falsely represented were wholly sourced in the United States.
Revision is a Delaware corporation with its principal place of business in Vermont. Revision manufactures protective eyewear systems, which the United States has purchased for use by military personnel through the Defense Logistics Agency’s Special Operational Equipment Tailored Logistics Support (SOE TLS) Program. The SOE TLS Program requires that textile components in products be sourced from the United States in accordance with the Berry Amendment.
The government’s investigation revealed that between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2020, Revision used a non-domestic source of carrying pouches, cases, and/or straps for certain eyewear systems sold through the SOE TLS Program. Revision has acknowledged these impermissible sales and that employees with oversight of product sourcing, operations and/or sales during this period were aware of the use of non-compliant components in products sold through the SOE TLS Program. The government alleges that Revision’s knowing sale of non-compliant eyewear systems violated the False Claims Act, a civil fraud statute.
“In selling products that it knew to be non-compliant, Revision violated the trust placed in government contractors in furtherance of its own bottom line,” said United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest. “Our office has now resolved three investigations in the past two years into procurement fraud in Department of Defense contracts, and we will continue to work to preserve the integrity of government programs.”
Investigative support in this matter was provided by the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division and the United States Department of Defense (DoD) Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service.
“Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division is committed to protecting the interests of our soldiers and to pursuing those involved in procurement fraud aggressively,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Keith K. Kelly, Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division’s Fraud Field Office. “CID Special Agents work diligently to prevent and investigate criminal activity and civil violations that affect Army people, resources, capabilities, and communities worldwide.”
“Protecting the integrity of the DoD procurement process and supply chain is a top priority for the DoD Office of Inspector General Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” stated Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty, DCIS Northeast Field Office. “The DCIS will continue to work with its law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to hold DoD contractors accountable to contract requirements and ensure that compliant products are provided to the U.S. military.”
To resolve the claims against it, Revision has agreed to pay to the United States a total of $426,000. This amount reflects Revision’s acceptance of responsibility, cooperation with the government investigation, and compliance measures implemented by Revision’s new owners after 2019.
Civil Chief Lauren Almquist Lively handled this matter for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont.
The settlement agreement between the United States and Revision is available at this link:
Revision Military Ltd. Settlement Agreement.pdfRobert McLane Imprisoned for Defrauding Auto Dealer EmployerRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office announced that Robert McLane, 36, of Websterville, Vermont was sentenced yesterday in United States District Court in Burlington to 18 months of imprisonment following his guilty plea to a charge of mail fraud. Chief U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss ordered that McLane serve three years of supervised release following completion of his prison term and also pay restitution in the amount of $566,000. The court ordered McLane to surrender to the United States Bureau of Prisons on April 4, 2025 to begin serving his sentence.
According to court records, between approximately March 2019 and September 23, 2022, McLane was employed by Formula Nissan, Inc., an automobile sales and service dealership located in central Vermont, where McLane served as the Parts Manager and then the Director of Parts and Service. In his positions, McLane oversaw the parts and service departments; supervised other employees; and ordered, received and paid for automotive parts needed in the dealership’s operations. In ordering, receiving and paying for parts, McLane typically communicated with Formula Nissan’s parts supplier, Nissan North America, using the Dealer Management System software.
Beginning in about January 2021 and continuing until September 2022, McLane defrauded the dealership by ordering certain vehicle parts from the dealership’s parts supplier, including vehicle suspension lift kits. The cost to the dealership of each lift kit was in the $2300 to $2900 range. The supplier billed, and the dealership subsequently paid, for the lift kits McLane had ordered.
As part of the scheme, McLane caused the lift kits not to be entered into the dealership’s inventory of parts-on-hand.
Instead of selling the lift kits for the benefit of the dealership, McLane advertised them for sale on Facebook at prices substantially discounted from their wholesale cost to the dealership. Over the course of the scheme, McLane sold more than 200 lift kits to persons around the United States, and he shipped the kits to his own customers by using the dealership’s Federal Express account. Purchasers paid McLane for the lift kits via transfers of funds to a personal PayPal account that McLane maintained in his own name and for his own benefit.
As a result of McLane’s fraud, Formula Nissan and its insurance company suffered an out-of-pocket loss of at least $575,000.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
McLane is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
Leticia Russi-Shareno Pleads Guilty to Labor Union EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont announced that Leticia Russi-Shareno, 60, of Kenmore, New York, pleaded guilty today in United States District Court in Burlington to a charge of wire fraud. Chief U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss released Russi-Shareno on conditions pending sentencing, which is scheduled for May 22.
On November 20, 2024, the United States Attorney filed a one-count information charging Russi-Shareno with wire fraud. Russi-Shareno pleaded guilty to the information in court today. According to the information, between approximately August 2019 and December 2020, Russi-Shareno served as president of Local 2076 of the American Federation of Government Employees. Local 2076 is a labor union whose members are employees of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security working in Vermont and upstate New York. As president, Russi-Shareno had check signing authority on Local 2076’s Vermont bank account and also received a debit card to make official purchases on behalf of the union.
According to the information, during her presidency, Russi-Shareno embezzled approximately $36,000 from Local 2076’s coffers by using the union’s debit card to make ATM withdrawals of funds for personal expenses; using the debit card to make purchases for her personal benefit; and by falsifying paperwork to obtain duplicate reimbursements for expenses incurred on behalf of Local 2076. The defendant also cashed or deposited into her own account several checks that the national AFGE union had issued to Local 2076.
Russi-Shareno faces up to 20 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. Her actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
This case was investigated by the Boston and Buffalo Regional Office of the Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards and the Department of Homeland Security.
Russi-Shareno is represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
James Mailhiot, Jr. Pleads Guilty to Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office announced that James Mailhiot, Jr., 56, of Rutland, Vermont, pleaded guilty yesterday in United States District Court in Rutland to a charge of federal income tax evasion. U.S. District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier released Mailhiot on conditions pending sentencing, which is scheduled for March 27, 2025.
On November 14, 2024, the United States Attorney filed a one-count information charging Mailhiot with evading a significant portion of the income taxes he owed to the United States for Tax Years 2019 through 2022. Yesterday, Mailhiot pleaded guilty to that information.
According to the information, Mailhiot owned and operated a roofing business that generated approximately $1.6 million in gross revenues between 2019 and 2022. Mailhiot used an out-of-state accountant to prepare his federal income tax returns. To enable the accountant to prepare each return, Mailhiot sent the accountant records of revenues earned and expenses incurred on the various roofing jobs he completed that year. In fact, the records Mailhiot gave to the accountant were very incomplete, resulting in a very substantial understatement of the taxable income he earned each year, and very substantial underpayments of the taxes he owed to the Internal Revenue Service. According to the information, Mailhiot’s underpayments for years 2019-2022 totaled $296,000.
Mailhiot faces up to five years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $100,000. The actual sentence, however, will be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation.
Mailhiot is represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to 58 Months in Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on December 3, 2024, Roosevelt Smith, 27, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 58 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 5-year term of supervised release. Smith previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and fentanyl.
According to court records, on September 21, 2023, law enforcement arrested Smith, in Burlington, Vermont, after executing a search warrant at 86 N. Champlain St. The warrant was executed shortly after Smith returned to the residence from a trip to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Items seized from the residence included nearly 300 grams of cocaine base and approximately 70 grams of fentanyl. Law enforcement later examined the contents of Smith’s phone, pursuant to a warrant. The examination revealed communications indicative of drug trafficking.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the exceptional investigative work of the Burlington Police Department and the Vermont State Police.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas J. Aliberti. Smith was represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq.
Wolcott, Vermont Woman Sentenced for Stealing Social Security BenefitsRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on December 2, 2024, Maryann Manning, 63, of Wolcott, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to two years of probation. Chief Judge Reiss also ordered Manning to pay restitution to the Social Security Administration in the amount of $119,978. Manning previously pleaded guilty to a one-count information charging Manning with receiving stolen government money.
According to court records, Manning’s brother received disability insurance benefit payments from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Manning’s brother died in October 2015 at which time his SSA benefits should have terminated. Following his death, however, Manning collected her brother’s benefits from SSA by withdrawing the money from his accounts. Manning admitted to investigators that she knew that she stole the money that did not belong to her. The total loss to the Social Security Administration was more than $119,000.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Stendig. Manning was represented by Robert Behrens, Esq.
Umar Koon Sentenced to Prison on Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that Umar Koon, 46, of The Bronx, New York, was sentenced today in United States District Court in Burlington, to six months of imprisonment following his guilty plea to a charge that he possessed fentanyl, cocaine base and cocaine with intent to distribute. United States District Judge William K. Sessions III ordered that Koon serve three years of supervised release following completion of his prison term. The court ordered Koon to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on January 21, 2025 to begin serving his sentence.
According to court records, the Northwestern Vermont Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation began an investigation of Koon in the summer of 2023 after obtaining information that Koon was selling fentanyl in the Chittenden County area. Between September and November 2023, investigators, utilizing a confidential informant, made seven controlled purchases of fentanyl and cocaine base from Koon. Investigators arrested Koon on November 14 after he returned to Burlington from New York City on a bus. Agents seized a suitcase Koon was carrying, obtained a state warrant to search the bag, and recovered distribution quantities of cocaine, cocaine base and fentanyl. They also seized $1500 in cash from Koon’s person.
Koon was held without bail on state drug charges until December 6, 2023 when he was released to live in New York City. On December 7, 2023, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Koon with seven counts of distributing narcotics and one count of possessing other narcotics with intent to distribute. Federal agents arrested Koon at his home in The Bronx on December 12. The State of Vermont has dismissed its case in favor of this federal prosecution.
Koon is represented by Mark Kaplan, Esq. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
Rutland Man Sentenced in Gun CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on December 2, 2024, John Ryea, 41, of Rutland, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge William K. Sessions III to a term of approximately two and one-half months’ imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Ryea previously pleaded guilty to possessing a stolen firearm after having been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
According to court records, Ryea has a November 30, 2022 misdemeanor domestic violence conviction from Rutland Superior Court where he admitted to punching his then live-in girlfriend in the jaw. He remained on probation in that state court case when he committed the crime to which he pleaded guilty.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Vermont State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Vermont Drug Task Force.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin Owyang. Ryea was represented by Federal Public Defender Michael Desautels.
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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Rutland Woman Sentenced to 29 Months for Distribution of Cocaine BaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on November 21, 2024, Stephanie Horvath, 39, of Rutland, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 29 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Horvath previously pleaded guilty to distributing cocaine base to a law enforcement confidential informant in June 2023, in Rutland.
According to court records, starting in 2017-18 and continuing until her arrest in the current case in August 2023, Horvath “middled” drug sales for a rotating group of drug suppliers who were armed and dangerous. Horvath was involved in the distribution of cocaine base and heroin/fentanyl at the Highlander Motel in Rutland in 2022 and 2023. Horvath would distribute controlled substances herself, as well as have others distribute drugs from her hotel room. During the investigation that led to Horvath’s arrest, five controlled purchases were conducted by the Vermont State Police’s Drug Task Force involving the defendant’s room between December 2022 and June 2023. Records also indicate that in November 2022, Horvath’s acquisition of a large supply of cocaine and heroin/fentanyl from another drug supplier was associated with the violent assault of one of her associates.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Vermont State Police’s Drug Task Force, the Rutland City Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Turner and Jonathan A. Ophardt. Horvath was represented Natasha Sen, Esq.
Florida Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Computer Intrusion CaseRead the Press Release
Rutland, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on November 20, 2024, Desmond Ipaye Adebiyi, age 37, of Miami, Florida was sentenced by United States District Judge Joseph N. Laplante to a term of 18 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Ipaye previously pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting unauthorized access of a computer.
According to court records, Ipaye worked with others who infiltrated the email system of a Vermont business to receive emails intended for the company’s president and to send emails masquerading as from the company’s president. This ruse allowed Ipaye’s confederates to misdirect $450,000 intended for the Vermont business to a bank account that Ipaye and his conspirators had established for receiving crime proceeds. Fortunately, fast action by the Vermont business and law enforcement enabled complete recovery of the $450,000.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Drescher and Colin Owyang. Ipaye was represented by Heather E. Ross, Esq. from the law firm of Sheehey Furlong & Behm.
Arkansas Man Sentenced to 81 Months for Traveling to Have Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
Rutland, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on November 20, 2024, Nicholas Shelton, 25, of Hope, Arkansas, was sentenced by United States District Judge Joseph N. Laplante to a term of 81 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 15-year term of supervised release. Shelton previously pleaded guilty to traveling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct.
According to court records, in March 2023, while living in Hope, Arkansas, Shelton began communicating with a 15-year-old girl who resided in Vermont using two social media platforms. During their conversations, Shelton and his victim began discussing having sexual intercourse, getting married, and having children. Thereafter, on March 25, 2023, Shelton traveled to Vermont with the intent to engage in sexual activity with the minor victim, knowing she was only 15 years old. Shelton was discovered living in the garage of the 15-year-old victim’s family home, and ordered to leave by the child’s parents. Shortly thereafter, the 15-year-old ran away from home, prompting the family to call the police for assistance. Two days later, the 15-year-old child and Shelton were found camping in the woods near a park in Essex, Vermont. Shelton admitted to having intercourse with the 15-year-old child.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and the Essex, Vermont Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt. Shelton was represented by Assistant Federal Defender Steven Barth.
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 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 Justice.gov/PSC.
Indiana Man Pleads Guilty to and Sentenced for Making a False StatementRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on November 18, 2024, Brandon Anderson, 34, of Greenwood, Indiana, pleaded guilty in United States District Court in Burlington, to making a false statement to a department or agency of the United States. During the same hearing on November 18, Chief U.S. District Judge Christina Reiss sentenced Anderson to time-served and one year of supervised release.
Previously, on February 22, 2024, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Anderson, with two counts of impersonation of an officer or employee of the United States and one count of making a false statement to a department or agency of the United States.
According to court records, Anderson, while wearing a tactical uniform with black body armor and a holstered firearm, impersonated a federal law enforcement official on two occasions. Anderson was not in fact a federal law enforcement official during either occasion, but instead was a privately contracted security guard for a federal agency. In addition, investigation of Anderson revealed that, in becoming a security guard for the federal agency, he falsely stated that he had served in the United States Marine Corps and received an honorable discharge, when in fact he had not served in the Marines at all.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, the Chittenden County Sheriff’s Department, and the South Burlington Police Department.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Anderson is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara Puls.
Rutland Man Sentenced to 190 Months in Firearm and Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on Friday, November 15, 2024, Lawrence Jackson, (a/k/a “Boo-Bee”), 53, of Rutland, Vermont, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 190 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 5-year term of supervised release. Jackson previously was convicted by a jury on April 17, 2024 of seven drug trafficking and firearm offenses after a seven-day trial.
According to court records and evidence admitted at trial, Jackson was the leader and organizer of a drug trafficking operation in the Rutland area that distributed over 3.5 kilograms of cocaine between December 2020 and November 2021. Jackson distributed large quantities of powder cocaine and cocaine base from four Rutland-area hotels and motels, as well as private residences. Jackson personally employed violence and intimidation to further his drug trafficking activities and directed others to do so. This violence included pistol-whippings and assaults as retribution for drug debts and personal affronts. Jackson armed himself and his coconspirators with firearms, including his favorite weapon, a Taurus “The Judge” revolver. Evidence admitted at sentencing established that, in addition to his drug and firearm offenses, Jackson sexually assaulted women and engaged in sex trafficking in and around Rutland.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigative work of Homeland Security Investigations, the Rutland City Police Department, and the Vermont Drug Task Force. U.S. Attorney Kerest also thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Vermont State Police for their investigative assistance.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan A. Ophardt and Nicole P. Cate. Jackson represented himself at trial and sentencing, and Robert Behrens, Esq. served as standby counsel.
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 Justice.gov/PSN.
New Jersey Woman Sentenced to 30 Months of Imprisonment for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on November 18, 2024, Hassanah Delia, 38, of Burlington, New Jersey, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 30 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a six-year term of supervised release. Delia previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute cocaine base and fentanyl in the District of Vermont in July and August 2023.
According to court records, in late July and early August 2023, Hassanah Delia and her co-conspirators occupied the Morrisville, Vermont residence of an individual who suffers from a degenerative illness. Delia occupied the individual's home for approximately a week and a half. Delia and her co-conspirators worked together to sell cocaine base and fentanyl from the house. Inside of the residence, Delia and her co-conspirators also cooked cocaine into cocaine base, and packaged drugs including fentanyl for street-level distribution. Drug customers came to the residence and Delia and others distributed drugs to those customers in exchange for money.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Morristown Police Department, the Vermont State Police Drug Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Stendig. Delia 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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Nicolelus Sanborn Pleads Not Guilty to Federal Drug Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office announced that Nicolelus Sanborn, 30, of Burlington, Vermont, pleaded not guilty yesterday in United States District Court in Burlington to an indictment charging him with distributing fentanyl. U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle ordered that Sanborn be detained during the pendency of this matter.
On October 17, 2024, a federal grand jury returned the indictment that charged Sanborn with distributing fentanyl in May 2024. According to court records, a cooperating individual bought narcotics from Sanborn in controlled purchases that were recorded and surveilled by law enforcement. Law enforcement arrested Sanborn on those charges on November 14, 2024.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Sanborn is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
If convicted, Sanborn faces up to 20 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000,000. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
This case was investigated by the Burlington Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force.
Sanborn is represented by Mark Oettinger, Esq. The prosecutor for the government is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
Texan Charged with Being Felon in Possession of Firearm After Coast Guard Encounter on Lake ChamplainRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that a federal grand jury returned an indictment on October 16, 2024 charging Michael Robistow, 49, of Willis, Texas, with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Robistow entered a plea of not guilty to the charges today during an arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Robistow be released on conditions pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled.
According to court records and statements made at today’s arraignment, on June 9, 2024, U.S. Coast Guard personnel on Lake Champlain boarded Robistow’s vessel, the “Sonata,” to conduct a safety inspection. Robistow and his wife were the only two people aboard the vessel at the time of the Coast Guard boarding. During the inspection, Coast Guard personnel learned of the presence of a firearm in a cabinet in the helm of the vessel. That firearm was temporarily detained for the safety of Coast Guard personnel. After concluding the safety inspection, Coast Guard personnel disembarked the “Sonata.” Shortly thereafter, dispatchers informed the Coast Guard personnel that Robistow had previously been convicted of a felony offense. The Coast Guard personnel therefore reboarded the “Sonata,” and seized 3 firearms: a Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield 9x19mm pistol, a Glock Model 19 9x19mm pistol, and a Palmetto Armory PA-15 AR-style rifle. Coast Guard personnel also seized loaded spare magazines for the pistols, and a box of .38 caliber ammunition. The next day, ATF and HSI agents again boarded the “Sonata,” and during a more thorough search, located a bag containing 806 rounds more of ammunition, in 6 different calibers. During their search, ATF agents also observed a 3D printer onboard the “Sonata.”
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Robistow is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Robistow faces up to 15 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the vital assistance of Homeland Security Investigations.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt. Robistow is represented by Devin McKnight, 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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Hartford, Connecticut Man Sentenced to 35 Months in Northeast Kingdom Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on November 8, 2024, Marvin Byrd, 29, of Hartford, Connecticut, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 35 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Byrd previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl.
According to court records, Byrd agreed with multiple other individuals to acquire and ultimately distribute controlled substances in Orleans County in Vermont. Between at least March and August 2023, Byrd—who went by “TJ” while in Vermont—stayed with multiple local residents in Orleans County and used their residences as places to prepare and distribute controlled substances. The last residence Byrd occupied for that purpose was in Barton, Vermont. Investigators performed multiple controlled purchases involving Byrd and his coconspirators in that time, including one purchase of fentanyl directly from Byrd in April 2023.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest noted that this case was part of a sustained joint federal, state, county and local law enforcement investigation into drug-and-firearms-trafficking activities in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. He stated that the United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to its partnerships in the Kingdom and their long-term, in-depth investigations. U.S. Attorney Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Northeast Vermont Drug Task Force; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Homeland Security Investigations; the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department; the Newport Police Department; the Air & Marine Operations division of Customs and Border Protection, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lasher. Byrd was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara Puls and defense attorney Arthur Ruben, Esq.
Dominican Man Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on October 31, 2024 a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Luis Edison Capellan-Ortiz, 49, of the Dominican Republic, with illegally reentering the United States after being removed for the commission of an aggravated felony.
Capellan-Ortiz entered a plea of not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on November 8, 2024, before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. On October 21, 2024, at Capellan-Ortiz’s initial appearance, Judge Doyle previously ordered that Capellan-Ortiz be detained during the pendency of this matter.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an indictment contains allegations only and that Capellan-Ortiz is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Capellan-Ortiz faces up to 20 years of imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Capellan-Ortiz is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara M. Puls.
Adam Champagne Pleads Not Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office announced that Adam Champagne, 42, a Burlington native who currently has no stable residence, pleaded not guilty on November 8, 2024 in United States District Court in Burlington to a charge of bank robbery. U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin Doyle ordered that Champagne be held without bail pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
On October 24, 2024, a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging Champagne with robbing a bank on Shelburne Road in South Burlington on September 25, 2024. According to court records, Champagne told the bank teller that he had a bomb in a bag he was carrying. Local law enforcement arrested Champagne on this charge on November 7. According to court records, Champagne is suspected of robbing three other banks in the Burlington area since last summer.
The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charge in the indictment is merely an accusation and that Champagne is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty.
If convicted, Champagne faces up to 20 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
This case was investigated by the South Burlington, Burlington, and Essex police departments, as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Champagne is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
Venezuelan Man Charged with Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm After Driving Motorcycle Across Border in Derby Line, VermontRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that Julio Cesar Romero-Paredes, 46, of Venezuela, has been charged by criminal complaint with unlawfully possessing a firearm as an individual illegally present in the United States, and illegal reentry into the United States after having previously departed while under an order of removal.
Romero-Paredes’s initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle has not been scheduled at this time.
According to court records, on November 7, 2024, at approximately 12:50 a.m., the driver of a distinctive motorcycle illegally entered the United States by driving around barriers placed near the Haskell Library in Derby Line, Vermont. Customs and Border Protection Officers stationed at nearby ports of entry assisted in locating the motorcycle, which entered onto Interstate 91 and was headed southbound. CBP Officers located the vehicle near Exit 28 on Interstate 91, and performed a traffic stop. The motorcycle, which bore a Georgia registration, was being operated by Romero-Paredes. Romero-Paredes was taken into custody by CBP Officers. An inventory search of Romero-Paredes’s motorcycle, including the bags affixed to the motorcycle, revealed a fully loaded Walther Model P22 .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol (with one round in the chamber), five additional magazines containing approximately 50 rounds of .22 caliber ammo, two Glock magazines with approximately 30 rounds of 9 mm ammunition, and a suspected suppressor that threaded onto the barrel of the Walther pistol. Agents also located in the bags affixed to the motorcycle several handcuff keys, multiple knives, a collapsible steel baton, zip ties, and cell phones. Immigration records revealed that Romero-Paredes had initially entered the United States in 2005 with a visitor’s visa. Romero-Paredes was ordered removed from the United States by an immigration judge on or about March 18, 2022, in Dallas, Texas.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Romero-Paredes is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Romero-Paredes faces up to 15 years of imprisonment if convicted of the firearm charge, and up to 2 years of imprisonment if convicted of the immigration charge. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the efforts of Customs and Border Protection to quickly apprehend Romero-Paredes, and the investigatory assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Cate. Romero-Paredes has not yet been appointed or retained counsel.
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 Justice.gov/PSN.
Orlando, Florida Man Convicted of Wire Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Rutland, Vermont – The United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on Friday, November 1, 2024, Nasir Hussain, also known as “Sonu”, 31, of Orlando, Florida was convicted in U.S. District Court in Rutland of wire fraud conspiracy after a four-day jury trial. U.S. District Judge Joseph N. Laplante ordered that Hussain remain in jail pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. Hussain has been held without bail since his arrest in July 2023.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Hussain recruited a number of people to open bank accounts using false information. Those bank accounts were used to funnel proceeds from defrauded victims who lived in Vermont, California, and elsewhere in the United States. Under the fraud scheme, the victim would receive calls, emails or both – purportedly from well-known retail establishments about charges to the victim’s account. The victim was asked to call a certain number and eventually download software to enable the caller to view the screen of the victim’s computer to “refund” the charge if the victim desired.
In reality, however, that software enabled the caller to access the victim’s computer remotely – not just view the screen. The caller then pretended to cancel the requested service at the victim’s request and provide the requested refund. The caller made it look like they had provided too large of a refund, often by moving around money from the victim’s own accounts. When the victim went to return what they thought was the over-refund, they were actually giving away their own money. The callers told their victims to send their money to the bank accounts that Hussain and his conspirators had opened. From there, Hussain and his conspirators funneled the victims’ funds to various individuals in India.
Based on the jury’s verdict, Hussain faces a maximum of 20 years in prison. In a separate case still pending, Hussain faces charges of knowingly making false statements in connection with his application for permanent residence status. Hussain faces a maximum of 10 years in prison on that charge. The actual sentence will be determined with reference to Federal Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
“Fraud schemes like the one perpetrated by Hussain are complex and tend to prey on vulnerable victims,” said United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest. “These fraud schemes are also far too common and require vigilance by community members and law enforcement alike. This case demonstrates that the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners hold perpetrators of cybercrime accountable. Moving forward, we will continue to investigate and prosecute these fraud schemes and also provide education to the community on how to avoid becoming a victim.”
“Mr. Hussain is a scam artist involved in a sophisticated criminal network that targeted innocent victims and robbed them of their hard-earned money,” said Craig Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albany Field Office. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners at the United States Attorney’s Office to identify and disrupt any individual or criminal organization looking to use technology to scam our citizens.”
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest also commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and thanked the U.S. Marshals Service for their assistance during trial.
At trial, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eugenia P. Cowles and Colin Owyang represented the government. Kevin Henry, Esq. of Primmer, Piper, Eggleston & Cramer, PC represented Hussain.
New England Doctor Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – A New England doctor pleaded guilty today to conspiring to illegally distribute controlled substances. This is the first joint prosecution of a doctor by the Justice Department’s New England Strike Force and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont.
“The defendant, a medical doctor based in New England, prescribed drugs to vulnerable patients in exchange for cash, knowing the patients were diverting the drugs,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The cases brought by the New England Strike Force, including today’s conviction, demonstrate the Criminal Division’s commitment to holding accountable medical professionals who endanger local communities by putting profits above their patients’ wellbeing.”
“When we announced the creation of the New England Strike Force, we said we would be focusing on medical professionals who put profits over their patients,” said U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest for the District of Vermont. “Khan is an example of that — a bad apple in a profession that takes an oath to uphold ethical standards and treat patients as you would want to be treated. Putting profits over patients is a severe violation of that oath, and, in this case, a violation of federal criminal law. Today’s guilty plea is another step in holding Khan liable for his illegal conduct.”
According to court documents, Adnan S. Khan, M.D., 48, of Grantham, New Hampshire, conspired with others to illegally distribute controlled substances through his business, New England Medicine and Counseling Associates (NEMCA), which operated a network of clinics in New England that purportedly provided clinical treatment services for persons suffering from substance use disorder. Khan and a co-conspirator prescribed controlled substances to NEMCA patients despite knowing that their patients were diverting the prescriptions. Khan admitted that he and others required cash for purported office visits to received controlled substance prescriptions and falsified medical records to justify his illegal prescribing practices.
During the conspiracy, Khan emailed a co-conspirator a Justice Department press release announcing the creation of the New England Strike Force, a law enforcement partnership whose purpose is to identify and prosecute health care fraud and other criminal schemes impacting the New England region. In response, the co-conspirator stated that it is “clear that [references in the release to] ‘making profit off of patients’ is geared towards folks like us. Curious where this will lead.” Khan then emailed NEMCA staff and stated that “there is a new task force…[for the New England states] on the lookout for medical professionals who are prescribing scheduled meds irresponsib[ly], etc.” Khan warned his staff that “[i]t is not a matter of if someone from such a task force will visit NEMCA but rather a matter of time.” Khan then ordered his staff “NOT to engage or discuss anything [with the New England Strike Force] about NEMCA, what we do, what we offer, fees, etc.”
“Rather than providing responsible addiction treatment to his patients, Khan ran his medical practice with the corruption and recklessness of a common drug dealer,” said Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “His actions put patients and the community at risk. Today’s guilty plea is the result of a coordinated effort with our law enforcement partners as we continue our fight against addiction and the opioid epidemic.”
“Khan and his co-conspirator exploited vulnerable patients and cashed in on the very dependencies he was entrusted to treat,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli of the FBI Albany Field Office. “Today’s plea proves he is no better than a street level drug dealer motivated by pure greed as opposed to the oath he took to ‘first, do no harm’ to his patients. The FBI will continue to work with our partners on the New England Strike Force and U.S. Attorney’s Office to identify and bring to justice any practitioner looking to line their pockets in complete disregard for patient welfare and viability of our healthcare framework.”
“Our communities deserve honest and trustworthy medical practitioners,” said Acting Diversion Program Manager George J. Lutz Jr. of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s New England Field Division. “Individuals betraying this trust through the illegal prescribing of controlled substances will be fully investigated by the DEA. Today’s guilty plea reinforces the value of the coordinated efforts with our law enforcement partners working alongside prosecutors to hold corrupt and reckless practitioners accountable for their actions.”
“So many Vermonters have been impacted by the opioid epidemic, which is why we must hold bad actors accountable, particularly physicians who use their prescribing power and their positions of authority to profit from their patients’ pain and suffering,” said Vermont Attorney General Charity R. Clark on behalf of the office’s Medicaid Fraud & Residential Abuse Unit. “I am proud to partner with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Department of Justice in this effort.”
Khan and a co-conspirator required patients — many of whom were economically disadvantaged — to pay $250 cash in exchange for drug prescriptions, despite many of these patients’ having health care benefit coverage. If a patient could not afford the full cash payment, Khan would lower the dosage of that patient’s prescription. Khan then used funds that he earned from these patients to, among other things, purchase an airplane and multiple properties in New England. Khan would also personally deposit the cash that he received from patients, including deposits in excess of $10,000, at his bank.
Khan also admitted that he and a co-conspirator discussed their concern that, because pharmacies were no longer willing to fill the prescriptions, NEMCA might lose “dishonest” patients who were “selling their meds.” Khan said that their “honest patients” were “the smaller part of [NEMCA’s] clientele” and advised a co-conspirator that “it’s the diverters [of the drugs that] we need to try to figure out a way to retain.” A co-conspirator emailed Khan, suggesting that they give $100 “scholarships” to patients who owed them money. Khan responded he was “[s]tuck on ‘who’ should get them. S[******] patients owe me so much that $100 won’t even put a dent on their account and they probably won’t appreciate it. Maybe the borderline ones who are just over the $250 threshold? They would probably get on their knees in gratitude.”
Khan pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to illegally distribute controlled substances. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled on a later date. Khan faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
As a condition of Khan’s release, he is prohibited from writing prescriptions for controlled substances.
The HHS-OIG, FBI, DEA, and Vermont Attorney General’s Office’s Medicaid Fraud and Residential Abuse Unit investigated the case.
The Fraud Section partners with federal and state law enforcement agencies and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country to prosecute medical professionals and others involved in the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids. The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
The Vermont Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud and Residential Abuse Unit receives 75% of its funding from HHS-OIG under a grant award totaling $1,229,616 for federal fiscal year 2024. The remaining 25%, totaling $409,870 for federal fiscal year 2024, is funded by the State of Vermont.
Anyone needing access to opioid treatment services can contact HHS-OIG’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 24/7 National Helpline for referrals to treatment services at 1-800-662-4359.
New England Doctor Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A New England doctor pleaded guilty today to conspiring to illegally distribute controlled substances. This is the first joint prosecution of a doctor by the Justice Department’s New England Strike Force and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont.
“The defendant, a medical doctor based in New England, prescribed drugs to vulnerable patients in exchange for cash, knowing the patients were diverting the drugs,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The cases brought by the New England Strike Force, including today’s conviction, demonstrate the Criminal Division’s commitment to holding accountable medical professionals who endanger local communities by putting profits above their patients’ wellbeing.”
“When we announced the creation of the New England Strike Force, we said we would be focusing on medical professionals who put profits over their patients,” said U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest for the District of Vermont. “Khan is an example of that — a bad apple in a profession that takes an oath to uphold ethical standards and treat patients as you would want to be treated. Putting profits over patients is a severe violation of that oath, and, in this case, a violation of federal criminal law. Today’s guilty plea is another step in holding Khan liable for his illegal conduct.”
According to court documents, Adnan S. Khan, M.D., 48, of Grantham, New Hampshire, conspired with others to illegally distribute controlled substances through his business, New England Medicine and Counseling Associates (NEMCA), which operated a network of clinics in New England that purportedly provided clinical treatment services for persons suffering from substance use disorder. Khan and a co-conspirator prescribed controlled substances to NEMCA patients despite knowing that their patients were diverting the prescriptions. Khan admitted that he and others required cash for purported office visits to received controlled substance prescriptions and falsified medical records to justify his illegal prescribing practices.
During the conspiracy, Khan emailed a co-conspirator a Justice Department press release announcing the creation of the New England Strike Force, a law enforcement partnership whose purpose is to identify and prosecute health care fraud and other criminal schemes impacting the New England region. In response, the co-conspirator stated that it is “clear that [references in the release to] ‘making profit off of patients’ is geared towards folks like us. Curious where this will lead.” Khan then emailed NEMCA staff and stated that “there is a new task force…[for the New England states] on the lookout for medical professionals who are prescribing scheduled meds irresponsib[ly], etc.” Khan warned his staff that “[i]t is not a matter of if someone from such a task force will visit NEMCA but rather a matter of time.” Khan then ordered his staff “NOT to engage or discuss anything [with the New England Strike Force] about NEMCA, what we do, what we offer, fees, etc.”
“Rather than providing responsible addiction treatment to his patients, Khan ran his medical practice with the corruption and recklessness of a common drug dealer,” said Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “His actions put patients and the community at risk. Today’s guilty plea is the result of a coordinated effort with our law enforcement partners as we continue our fight against addiction and the opioid epidemic.”
“Khan and his co-conspirator exploited vulnerable patients and cashed in on the very dependencies he was entrusted to treat,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli of the FBI Albany Field Office. “Today’s plea proves he is no better than a street level drug dealer motivated by pure greed as opposed to the oath he took to ‘first, do no harm’ to his patients. The FBI will continue to work with our partners on the New England Strike Force and U.S. Attorney’s Office to identify and bring to justice any practitioner looking to line their pockets in complete disregard for patient welfare and viability of our healthcare framework.”
“Our communities deserve honest and trustworthy medical practitioners,” said Acting Diversion Program Manager George J. Lutz Jr. of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s New England Field Division. “Individuals betraying this trust through the illegal prescribing of controlled substances will be fully investigated by the DEA. Today’s guilty plea reinforces the value of the coordinated efforts with our law enforcement partners working alongside prosecutors to hold corrupt and reckless practitioners accountable for their actions.”
“So many Vermonters have been impacted by the opioid epidemic, which is why we must hold bad actors accountable, particularly physicians who use their prescribing power and their positions of authority to profit from their patients’ pain and suffering,” said Vermont Attorney General Charity R. Clark on behalf of the office’s Medicaid Fraud & Residential Abuse Unit. “I am proud to partner with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Department of Justice in this effort.”
Khan and a co-conspirator required patients — many of whom were economically disadvantaged — to pay $250 cash in exchange for drug prescriptions, despite many of these patients’ having health care benefit coverage. If a patient could not afford the full cash payment, Khan would lower the dosage of that patient’s prescription. Khan then used funds that he earned from these patients to, among other things, purchase an airplane and multiple properties in New England. Khan would also personally deposit the cash that he received from patients, including deposits in excess of $10,000, at his bank.
Khan also admitted that he and a co-conspirator discussed their concern that, because pharmacies were no longer willing to fill the prescriptions, NEMCA might lose “dishonest” patients who were “selling their meds.” Khan said that their “honest patients” were “the smaller part of [NEMCA’s] clientele” and advised a co-conspirator that “it’s the diverters [of the drugs that] we need to try to figure out a way to retain.” A co-conspirator emailed Khan, suggesting that they give $100 “scholarships” to patients who owed them money. Khan responded he was “[s]tuck on ‘who’ should get them. S[******] patients owe me so much that $100 won’t even put a dent on their account and they probably won’t appreciate it. Maybe the borderline ones who are just over the $250 threshold? They would probably get on their knees in gratitude.”
Khan pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to illegally distribute controlled substances. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled on a later date. Khan faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
As a condition of Khan’s release, he is prohibited from writing prescriptions for controlled substances.
The HHS-OIG, FBI, DEA, and Vermont Attorney General’s Office’s Medicaid Fraud and Residential Abuse Unit investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Thomas D. Campbell and Danielle H. Sakowski of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Gilman for the District of Vermont are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section partners with federal and state law enforcement agencies and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country to prosecute medical professionals and others involved in the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids. The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
The Vermont Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud and Residential Abuse Unit receives 75% of its funding from HHS-OIG under a grant award totaling $1,229,616 for federal fiscal year 2024. The remaining 25%, totaling $409,870 for federal fiscal year 2024, is funded by the State of Vermont.
Anyone needing access to opioid treatment services can contact HHS-OIG’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 24/7 National Helpline for referrals to treatment services at 1-800-662-4359.
Florida Man Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Passport Card Fraud, Bank Fraud, Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on November 1, 2024, defendant Scott Jamie Ashness, 44, most recently of Stuart, Florida, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 48 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Ashness previously pleaded guilty to bank fraud, passport fraud, and aggravated identity theft.
According to court records, in September and October of 2023, Ashness entered fifteen different bank branches in Vermont, New York, and New Hampshire and pretended to be a total of eight different individuals in order to withdraw U.S. currency from those individuals’ accounts. On twelve of those fifteen occasions, Ashness was successful and walked out of the banks with the cash that he requested. In total, Ashness stole $80,150 from other individuals’ bank accounts, and he attempted to steal another $22,800. In some instances, Ashness presented to bank employees falsified U.S. passport cards or state driver’s licenses containing others’ biographical information and Ashness’s photograph.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest stated: “Fraud and identity theft are among the most serious crimes. They have the potential to cause significant financial harm to individual victims and also undermine the integrity and trust that institutions and individuals rely on every day in the United States. The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to raise awareness about crimes like those committed by the defendant and will work with our federal partners to vigorously investigate and prosecute these types of offenses.” U.S. Attorney Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Diplomatic Security Service’s St. Albans Resident Office. He also thanked the Derry, New Hampshire Police Department, the Vermont State Police, the South Burlington Police Department, the Essex Police Department, the Winooski Police Department, the Burlington Police Department, the Newport Police Department, and the Barre Police Department for their assistance in the investigation.
Special Agent in Charge Matthew O’Brien of the U.S. State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Boston Field Office said, “The Diplomatic Security Service is firmly committed to working with the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate allegations related to passports in identity theft crimes. And DSS’s global network of special agents working together to interdict passport crimes is vital to bringing those who commit these crimes to justice.”
The prosecutor was Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Cate. Ashness was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth and Christopher Dall, Esq.
Burlington, Vermont Man Charged with Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that James Plunkett, 39, of Burlington, Vermont, has been charged by criminal complaint with bank robbery.
On November 4, 2024, Plunkett appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered Plunkett detained during the pendency of this matter.
According to court records, on the morning of October 26, 2024, Plunkett is alleged to have robbed the M&T Bank on Pine Street in Burlington. Plunkett is alleged to have entered the bank, told the bank tellers that he had a bomb in his fanny pack, and ordered them to give him money. Plunkett did not conceal his face during the robbery. Plunkett received $683.00 in cash and left the area.
Plunkett was identified from the M&T bank robbery video footage after review by law enforcement and community members who knew Plunkett and provided tips to law enforcement.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Plunkett is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Plunkett faces up to 20 years if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the District Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Burlington Police Department, the Winooski Police Department, the South Burlington Police Department, the Vermont State Police’s Northern Vermont Drug Task Force, the Colchester Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Milton Police Department.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Thomas J. Aliberti. Plunkett is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth.