Eastern District of Washington
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Man Who Used COVID-19 Relief Funds to Purchase a Personal RV Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Jason Carnell O’Daffer, formerly of Wenatchee, Washington, was sentenced for fraudulently obtaining more than $117,000 in COVID relief funding. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 12 months and one day imprisonment to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
On March 27, 2020, the President signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The CARES Act provided a number of programs through which eligible small businesses could request and obtain relief funding intended to mitigate the economic impacts of the pandemic for small and local businesses. One such program, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), provided forgivable loans to eligible small businesses to retain jobs and maintain payroll during the pandemic. Another program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, provided low-interest bridge funding for small businesses placed at risk during the pandemic.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, O’Daffer admitted to fraudulently obtaining $117,400 in EIDL funding for his purported home appraisal business, Chelan Douglas Appraisal Services. When O’Daffer submitted his EIDL application, he was not licensed as an appraiser, and his business was no longer engaging in home appraisals. Rather, O’Daffer spent the loan proceeds on non-business expenses including more than $39,000 for the purchase of a personal RV.
In December of 2022, O’Daffer was arrested in San Francisco. Following his initial appearance, O’Daffer absconded from his pretrial release and remained at large until March of 2023, when he was arrested again.
“Mr. O’Daffer fraudulently obtained funds, set aside to help struggling small and local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr. O’Daffer spent the funds on a recreational vehicle and a cross-country road trip. Then, while on pretrial release following his arrest, Mr. O’Daffer disappeared until he was arrested again a few months later,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am grateful for the excellent investigative work of the Secret Service and the COVID-19 Strike Force to hold Mr. O’Daffer accountable. My office’s White-Collar team will continue to vigorously prosecute those who abuse and misuse COVID-19 funding.”
This case was investigated by the Eastern District of Washington COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force, the U.S. Secret Service, Spokane Resident Office and San Francisco Field Office, and the SBA OIG. Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy Kelly and Tyler H.L. Tornabene prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States.
United States Attorney’s Office Joins in Recognizing Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness DayRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref announced today that she will join with Federal, State, Local, and Tribal leaders in recognizing May 5, 2024, as Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Awareness Day. In doing so, U.S. Attorney Waldref called on all citizens and residents in Eastern Washington to support Tribal governments and Tribal communities’ efforts to increase awareness of missing or murdered Indigenous people.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington fully supports efforts to reduce violence and bring awareness to this important issue. As part of our efforts in this important cause, the Eastern District recently welcomed Bree R. Blackhorse as an Assistant United States Attorney dedicated to prosecuting cases involving Missing or Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP), in connection with the Justice Department’s MMIP regional program. AUSA Black Horse will work out of our Yakima Office, but she will serve throughout the Northwest Region – including in Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, and California.
In recognition of MMIP Awareness Day, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland highlighted ongoing efforts to tackle the MMIP and human trafficking crises in American Indian and Alaska Native communities, and other pressing public safety challenges, like the fentanyl crisis, in Tribal communities.
“There is still so much more to do in the face of persistently high levels of violence that Tribal communities have endured for generations, and that women and girls, particularly, have endured,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “In carrying out our work, we seek to honor those who are still missing, those who were stolen from their communities, and their loved ones who are left with unimaginable pain. Tribal communities deserve safety, and they deserve justice. This day challenges all of us at the Justice Department to double down on our efforts, and to be true partners with Tribal communities as we seek to end this crisis.”
“Today is set aside to recognize and increase awareness of missing or murdered Indigenous people. To address this crisis, every day we are committed to reducing violence on Native American reservations, achieving justice on behalf of victims, and supporting members of our Tribal communities overcome centuries of generational trauma, impacted by violence and displacement,
,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. Consistent with this increased focus, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern Washington continues to work diligently to support Native American communities and address the root causes of the MMIP crisis.
In July of 2023, for example, U.S. Attorney Vanessa Waldref–alongside co-hosts from the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD), the Office of Environmental Justice, and the Office of Tribal Justice – hosted Tribes from across the Northwest Region of the United States at a joint federal and Tribal Summit in Spokane, Washington focused on defending and strengthening Tribal homelands, climate adaptation, resilience and environmental justice. The purpose of the summit was to work with Tribal governments and other federal agencies to find “ways to address and incorporate Tribal concerns into the Department’s enforcement work.”
In October 2023, First Assistant Richard Baker met with the representatives of the Colville Trial Court, Prosecutor, Public Defender, Probation and Public Health Departments to discuss the MMIP Regional Program and public safety on the Colville Reservation.
In November 2023, U.S. Attorney Waldref and her First Assistant, Richard Barker, joined Federal, State, and Tribal law enforcement, community leaders, other stakeholders, and victims at the Washington State Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People Task Force’s Second Annual Summit. During the Summit, U.S. Attorney Waldref addressed the group and provided an update on federal efforts to address the MMIP crisis.
U.S. Attorney Waldref testified in December 2023 before the United States Senate Committee on Indian Affairs about the growing fentanyl crisis in Native Communities, which is an underlying cause of the MMIP crisis. When asked during the hearing about examples of success in combating the fentanyl crisis in Native communities, U.S. Attorney Waldref highlighted a case where more than 100 pounds of illegal drugs, including 161,000 fentanyl-laced pills were seized. A significant portion of the drugs seized were believed to be destined for the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, as well as for other Native American communities and surrounding areas in Washington and Montana.
Also in December 2023, U.S. Attorney Waldref, First Assistant Barker, Branch Manager Tom Hanlon, and AUSA Black Horse attended the ribbon cutting for a new Multi-Purpose Justice Center on the Yakama Nation. The center is the result of an incredible vision by the Yakama Nation for a consolidated facility that combines all the criminal justice programs at a single location. In 2019, The Department of Justice contributed funds to help make the vision a reality.
In January 2024, U.S. Attorney Waldref, alongside members of her office, and members of the Drug Enforcement Administration, met with Spokane Tribal communities regarding the dangers of Fentanyl.
In March 2024, U.S. Attorney Waldref and First Assistant Barker met with representatives and students at Whitman College for a round table discussion regarding MMIP and Fentanyl Awareness.
“I am grateful for the strong partnerships we have with the incredible leaders and community stakeholders from the tribes in the Eastern District of Washington. My office will continue to address the root causes underlying the MMIP crisis: fentanyl, domestic violence, child abuse, illegal possession and use of firearms, illegal narcotics, and human trafficking,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “The appointment of an Assistant United States Attorney dedicated to prosecuting MMIP cases in the Northwest Region, demonstrates the DOJ’s commitment to bring justice for the victims of this crisis and ensuring the safety and security of all indigenous people in the Northwest.”
“FBI Seattle is not only committed to building relationships with the 29 federally recognized tribes in Washington state, but also with our other law enforcement and community partners,” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “When the FBI is called to investigate an MMIP case, we want to ensure trust with the community is already established so people feel comfortable providing us the information we need to bring justice for the victims. While every case is different, the one characteristic is always true: every victim leaves a space in that community which cannot be filled. They have friends and family who want them to come home safely, and their community wants accountability. We recognize the process can be lengthy and frustrating, but we assure everyone we serve the FBI and our partners are doing everything we can, and we will never stop pursuing justice for victims, no matter how long it takes.”
Representative examples of MMIP cases prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office include the following:
- October 2018 homicide of Yakama Tribal member Rosenda Strong. 5 defendants were charged with crimes ranging from accessory after the fact, murder, and kidnapping resulting in death.
- October 2022 double murder on the Colville Indian Reservation involving enrolled members of the Coville and Kalispel tribe. Following the murder, the suspected attempted to kill a federal officer.
- October 2022 indictment of Steven Zacherle for a murder of a member of the Colville Tribe. Zacherle also allegedly harassed, threatened and assaulted his domestic partner before and after the murder.
- June 29, 2023 sentencing of Andre Pierre Picard to 5 years in prison for selling drugs linked to an overdose death of a woman on the Colville Indian Reservation
- September 2023 sentencing of Dylan Swan for kidnapping, robbery and shooting of multiple Tribal members on the Colville Indian Reservation and in Spokane, Washington.
- March 27, 2024 sentencing of Sundron Larsell Miller and Paula Eulojia Cantu-Lopez to decades in federal prison for violent carjacking and assault on the Yakama Nation.
- April 2, 2024 sentencing of Silaz Elijah James to 20 years in Federal Prison for a murder and assault in Toppenish, Washington.
- April 9, 2024 guilty verdict of 40-year-old Marvin Samson Butterfly. Butterfly was found guilty of assaulting and suffocating his partner, as well as Attempted Witness Tampering.
If you or someone you know has information about a missing or murdered Indigenous person, please contact the FBI Seattle Field Office by calling (206) 622-0460 or by visiting tips.fbi.gov. To learn more about the Department of Justice’s efforts to combat the MMIP crisis, click here.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Nampa Man Sentenced for Trafficking Fentanyl Pills Linked to an Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Jaycob Tyler Gonzales, age 29, of Nampa, Idaho, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 108 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in March of 2022, officers responded to a 911 call for an unconscious male at a home in Lewiston, Idaho. Upon arriving, officers found a man deceased from a fentanyl overdose. There was a piece of tinfoil with a fentanyl pill next to the body. Officers examined the man’s phone and found the last text messages. The messages described a drug transaction and were sent from a phone that belonged to Gonzales.
In April of 2022, Investigators arranged controlled buys of fentanyl pills from Gonzales’s residence in Clarkston, Washington.
On May 22, 2022, a traffic stop was conducted on a vehicle Gonzales was driving. Two young children were in the backseat. Investigators searched the trunk and located a small safe, disguised as dictionary, with more than 1,400 fentanyl pills inside. Gonzales told detectives he was returning home after a trip to Spokane to purchase 1,000 fentanyl pills from his supplier. Gonzales also told detectives he had been selling fentanyl for about two months and made regular trips to Spokane to re-supply. Gonzales admitted selling drugs to the man who died of a fentanyl overdose.
“Fentanyl continues to have a devastating impact on the community, and in this case resulted in the tragic overdose death of a young man. This case is a tragic and stark reminder of the destruction the opioid epidemic has inflicted,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Mr. Gonzales also had children with him when he was arrested with more than a thousand fentanyl pills, further increasing the risk that others would be harmed by the deadly drugs Mr. Gonzales was trafficking. My office, together with our federal and local partners, will continue to work tirelessly to prosecute those who contribute to this deadly crisis.”
“While in prison, Gonzales will no longer be able to contribute to the opioid epidemic that has devastated so many lives,” said Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners are working together to identify and disrupt traffickers who peddle poison in our communities.”
This case was investigated by the North Idaho Violent Crimes Task Force and the Quad Cities Drug Task Force. The Quad Cities Drug Task Force is a multi-jurisdiction task force involving the numerous law enforcement agencies in Asotin County, Garfield County, and Whitman County, Washington, and Latah County and Nez Perce County, Idaho. The North Idaho Violent Crimes Task Force is an FBI led Task Force involving the Idaho State Police, Lewiston Police Department, Nez Perce Tribal Police Department, and Grangeville Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Ellis.
Bree Black Horse Sworn in as Assistant United States Attorney Dedicated to Prosecuting MMIP Cases in the Northwest United StatesRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Today, United States Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref administered the oath of office to Assistant United States Attorney Bree R. Black Horse. A swearing-in ceremony was held at the Yakama Nation Justice Center in Toppenish, Washington.
AUSA Black Horse will prosecute cases involving Missing or Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP), in connection with the Justice Department’s MMIP regional program. AUSA Black Horse will work out of our Yakima Office, but she also will serve throughout the Northwest Region – including in Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, and California.
“I am honored and grateful that our District was selected to have an Assistant United States Attorney dedicated to prosecuting cases related to Missing or Murdered Indigenous People,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “We are so excited for Ms. Black Horse to join our team. Our commitment to justice is not new, but it is renewed. We will continue to prioritize cases arising in Indian Country and, with renewed resources, focus on addressing the root causes that have led to increased violence in our Tribal Nations – such as fentanyl, domestic violence, child abuse, illegal possession and use of firearms, illegal narcotics, and human trafficking. Our communities are safer and stronger as we join together to seek justice on behalf of victims and their families.”
“Ms. Black Horse has the background and experience to excel as an AUSA focused on Missing and Murdered Indigenous People cases, but more importantly she has the cultural knowledge and the heart to handle MMIP prosecutions with compassion for the victims and their families, and tenacity to hold accountable those perpetrating crimes against our People,” stated Gerald Lewis, Chairman, Yakama National Tribal Council.
“I joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Washington because I believe in this new role. I can meaningfully serve our Tribal communities while effectively combating MMIP in Indian country,” stated AUSA Black Horse. “I also stepped into this position to serve our MMIP victims and MMIP families. This new program is victim-centered at its core. The program aims to prevent harm to Indigenous people and help bring healing and justice to our MMIP victims and their families, and ultimately to our Tribal communities.”
The MMIP regional program prioritizes MMIP cases consistent with the Deputy Attorney General’s July 2022 directive to United States Attorneys’ Offices promoting public safety in Indian country. The program is part of the Justice Department’s promise to dedicate new personnel to MMIP consistent with Executive Order 14053, Improving Public Safety and Criminal Justice for Native Americans and Addressing the Crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous People, and the Department’s Federal Law Enforcement Strategy to Prevent and respond to Violence Against American Indians and Alaska Natives, Including to Address Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons issued in July 2022.
The program dedicates five MMIP Assistant U.S. Attorneys and five MMIP coordinators to provide specialized support to United States Attorneys’ offices to address and combat the issues of MMIP. This support includes assisting in the investigation of unresolved MMIP cases and related crimes, and promoting communication, coordination, and collaboration among federal, Tribal, local, and state law enforcement and non-governmental partners on MMIP issues. The five regions include the Northwest, Southwest, Great Plains, Great Lakes, and Southeast Regions, and MMIP personnel will be located within host United States Attorneys’ offices in the Districts of Alaska, Arizona, Eastern Washington, Minnesota, New Mexico, Northern Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, and Western Michigan. Program support will be provided by the MMIP Regional Outreach Program Coordinator at the Executive Office for United States Attorneys.
More broadly, this MMIP Program will complement the work of the Justice Department’s National Native American Outreach Services Liaison, who is helping amplify the voice of crime victims in Indian country and their families as they navigate the federal criminal justice system. Further, the MMIP Program will liaise with and enhance the work of the Department’s Tribal Liaisons and Indian Country Assistant United States Attorneys throughout Indian Country, the Native American Issues Coordinator, and the National Indian Country Training Initiative Coordinator to ensure a comprehensive response to MMIP.
Clarkston Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Attempting to Meet with a Minor for SexRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that David Elmo Curry, 38 of Clarkston, Washington, was sentenced on two counts of Attempted Enticement of a Minor. Curry was convicted of those crimes on December 6, 2023, following a jury trial. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian imposed a sentence of 156 months in federal prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information disclosed at trial and sentencing, Curry was arrested when he arrived at a house in Yakima, Washington after travelling from Kennewick, Washington in order to have sex with two minor girls. Earlier that day, Curry responded to an on-line ad by a woman purporting to be the mother of two daughters – ages 11 and 13. In text and email exchanges, the mother explained she was seeking a man to have sex with her minor children. The on-line ad was actually part of a sting operation conducted by the Washington State Patrol, assisted by the Yakima and Union Gap Police Departments and Homeland Security Investigations and the purported mother was an undercover officer. At the time of his arrest, Curry had condoms and flavored lubricant with him. Curry was then charged in Yakima County Superior Court with Attempted First Degree Attempted Rape of a Child and Second Degree Attempted Rape of a child. He later was released on bail on these state charges.
Following Curry’s release on bail, a Homeland Security Investigations Task Force Officer, acting in an undercover capacity, responded to a separate on-line ad, which Curry placed while on release. The undercover officer represented that he was a thirteen-year-old girl and Curry engaged the officer in sexual talk, requested nude images, and made arrangements to meet with him in person over the course of dozens of email and text messages. At one point, Curry determined the purported child’s preferred candy and purchased flavored lubricant in a corresponding flavor for a planned meeting the next day, which never took place.
Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian presided over the trial, which began on December 4, 2023. After 2 days of trial testimony, the jury returned guilty verdicts on all counts.
“Even while on release for related crimes, Mr. Curry attempted to find a young child to victimize,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am deeply grateful for the work of Homeland Security Investigations, our local partners, and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, for effectively responding to technology-facilitated sexual exploitation and for protecting our children.”
“Predators like Mr. Curry are motivated to target their victims through mouse clicks and keystrokes, and any sentence punishing his perverse actions is an important step in ensuring cyberspace is kept free of those that seek to exploit children,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “HSI, through its investigative expertise and law enforcement partnerships, will continue to hunt down these predators to ensure every one of them faces the full weight of justice.”
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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Washington State Patrol, the Yakima Police Department and the Southeast Regional ICAC Task Force, consisting of the Richland and Kennewick Police Departments. This case was prosecuted by Michael Murphy, Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Richland Brothers Sentenced to Decades in Federal Prison for Trafficking Hundreds of Thousands of Fentanyl Pills into the Tri-CitiesRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington - Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Kyle Ray Campbell, age 36, to 25 years in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl. The Court also sentenced Campbell’s codefendant, and brother, Cameron Earl Campbell, age 32, to 20 years in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl. Chief District Judge Bastian imposed 5 years of federal supervision on both defendants upon their release from custody. Kyle and Cameron Campbell are each from Richland, Washington.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, the Campbells were trafficking large amounts of fentanyl from Mexico into the Tri-Cities area. Beginning in early 2019, Kyle Campbell would travel to San Diego and meet a contact who would provide Campbell with fentanyl-laced pills that had been smuggled across the Mexican border. The contact would then take Campbell’s money for the pills back to Mexico and pay the source of supply. Cameron Campbell took over the trips to San Diego when he was off Washington State Department of Corrections supervision. Investigators learned the Campbells were provided with approximately 50,000 Fentanyl pills per month from early 2019 to February 2020.
On February 8, 2020, Cameron Campbell took a bus from Pasco, Washington to San Ysidro, California. From February 9 to February 12, 2020, Cameron Campbell made several trips between San Ysidro, and Mexico. On February 12, Cameron Campbell took a bus from San Ysidro to Toppenish, Washington. FBI agents conducting surveillance on the bus observed Cameron Campbell get off the bus carrying several bags. He went into a laundry mat and appeared to be waiting. Agents entered the laundry mat and contacted Cameron Campbell and seized his phone and luggage.
Following the execution of federal search warrant, agents recovered approximately 10,000 fentanyl-laced pills inside the seized bags. Agents also executed a search warrant on Cameron Campbell’s cell phone. The contents of the phone showed multiple text messages between Cameron Campbell and Kyle Campbell. The messages included details about the trip and an offer from Kyle to pick up Cameron when he got off the bus. The text messages also showed Cameron Campbell had left approximately 500 fentanyl-laced pills in a fast-food restaurant bathroom in Portland, Oregon for another person to pick up.
In July of 2020, a federal search warrant was executed at Kyle Campbell’s home. Agents located a safe with 400 fentanyl-laced pills, baggies with drug residue, a phone, cash, and multiple firearms. Agent also recovered another handgun from the bedroom of the home.
During sentencing, Chief Judge Bastian noted both defendants obstructed justice during the case – with Cameron Campbell attempting to have his now ex-wife erase cell phones seized by the FBI before they could be searched, and Kyle Campbell threatening a witness in the case with harm if the witness testified. Chief Judge Bastian also noted that while both defendants professed remorse and promised they would not engage in this type conduct again. Yet, at the same time as they promised they would not engage in further criminal activity, the Campbells were smuggling drugs into the Benton County Jail for distribution in the jail to other inmates.
“The defendants in this case distributed a shocking amount of deadly illicit fentanyl into the Tri-Cities area. This poison causes untold damage to families, neighborhoods, and our nation,” stated U.S Attorney Waldref. “My office is committed to battling the fentanyl epidemic by working together with our federal, state, local and tribal partners to prosecute the most significant traffickers to remove the source of supply of these dangerous narcotics and to protect our community.”
“Every Fentanyl pill introduced into our communities has the potential to destroy lives.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “The Campbell brothers were trafficking thousands of these deadly pills into Washington state each month. The FBI and our partners will continue our efforts of keeping these poisons off the streets and out of our neighborhoods.”
This case was investigated by the FBI Safe Streets Task Force in Tri-Cities, Washington, in cooperation with the Kennewick Police Department, Richland Police Department, Pasco Police Department, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Caitlin Baunsgard and Brandon Pang.
Cusick Man Who Illegally Possessed Firearms and Threatened to Kill a Family Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - U.S. Senior District Judge Rosanna Malouf Peterson sentenced Aaron Joseph Cunningham, age 47, of Cusick, Washington, to 41 months in federal prison on one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Allen was convicted on October 19, 2023, following a jury trial. Senior Judge Peterson also sentenced to Cunningham to 3 years of federal supervision after he is released from prison.
According to court documents and information disclosed at trial and sentencing, on October 24, 2021, Cunningham was driving his deceased brother’s car, which he had been using as his own. Law enforcement stopped Cunningham on a Department of Corrections warrant and arrested him. The car was towed, impounded, and ultimately set for auction.
On November 30, tow employees inventoried the car for auction. Employees located two black Glock firearms in glovebox. Both firearms were loaded and chambered.
During the investigation of the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition by Cunningham, law enforcement learned that Cunningham had made repeated threats to a family living on his deceased brother’s property. In the early morning hours of October 18, Cunningham came onto the property armed with two Glock-style firearms and accused the family of being squatters. Before leaving the property, Cunningham yelled, “I will kill you all.”
“Mr. Cunningham illegally possessed loaded firearms and used them in an attempt to frighten and threaten a family on their own property. This type of crime is not just a threat to people’s safety, it is a threat to their freedom to go about their daily lives,” stated United States Attorney Vanessa Waldref. “By working with our law enforcement partners to remove illegal firearms, we can have a significant impact in making our homes and communities safer.”
“Mr. Cunningham was prohibited from possessing firearms yet used them as a means to threaten his family,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “This sentence is well deserved and should send a message to anyone who would think to use firearms in this manner.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pend Oreille County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Herzog.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Observes National Crime Victims’ Rights WeekRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington and the Department of Justice’s Office of Victims of Crime (OVC) joins communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and celebrating victims’ rights, protections, and services. This year’s observance takes place April 21-27, 2024, and features the theme, “How would you help? Options, services, and hope for crime survivors.” The theme aims to ensure that everyone in a community knows where and how crime victims and survivors can find help — including friends, family members, colleagues, neighbors, service providers, or other trusted members of the community.
In 1975, the first “Victims’ Rights Week” was organized in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by the then district attorney. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week” in 1981 to highlight the importance of prioritizing the rights and needs of crime victims. President Reagan also established the President’s Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the foundation for a national network to provide services and legal safeguards for crime victims.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington has a dedicated team of prosecutors and victim assistance professionals, who work together to ensure victims receive the services and support they need. Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.
Each year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington prosecutes numerous cases involving individuals who are victims of violent, financial, environmental, and other crimes. In 2023 and continuing into 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s office has filed more than 70 victim cases, which include more than 1,000 individual victims. In each case, victim assistance specialists from our office provide victims with essential services, including referrals to counseling, and help to secure temporary housing, as necessary. These advocates also assist with access to victim’s compensation funds and accompany victims to court proceedings to provide support and guidance.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office also works tirelessly to recover restitution on behalf of victims. In 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington recovered more than $68 million on behalf of victims, much of which was recovered in connection with Cody Easterday’s “ghost cattle” scheme. In 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office already has recovered another $15 million in restitution on behalf of victims, bringing the total recovery in just the last year and a half to more than $84 million dollars. These restitution funds are provided directly to those who are victims of violent, financial, sexual exploitation and child abuse, as well as other crimes.
“Honoring the voice of victims of crime is a critical part of securing justice. Providing victims information and a choice in how they participate in cases, is not only their right, but also a meaningful path to recovery from the trauma they have endured,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am also grateful for the dedicated service of our victim assistance specialists – Jolene Jones and Marissa Allen – who work tirelessly to ensure the rights of all victims in the Eastern District of Washington. Their important work helps promote healing and provides victims tools for their future, thereby strengthening Eastern Washington communities.”
Representative examples of victim cases prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in 2023 and 2024, include the following:
- January 24, 2023 sentencing of Ronald Craig Ilg, who was convicted of attempting to hire a dark web hitmen to kidnap his then-estranged wife and harm a former work colleague. Ilg was sentenced to 8 years in federal prison and ordered to pay more than $20,000 in restitution.
- February 21, 2023 sentencing of Jordan Everett Stevens, who was convicted of murdering Alillia “Lala” Minthord and sentenced to life in prison.
- March 8, 2023 sentencing of Jonathan Scott Ard, for shooting a person and conspiring to distribute fentanyl in the Tri-Cities. Ard was sentenced to 12 years in prison.
- April 24, 2023 settlement agreement requiring Jason Dreyer, a former doctor, to pay more than $1 million to resolve allegations that he performed medically unnecessary neurosurgery procedures.
- May 18, 2023 sentencing of Karla Padilla for fraudulently obtaining more than $290,000 in COVID-19 relief funds. Padilla was sentenced to 15 months in prison and ordered to pay approximately $300,000 in restitution.
- June 14, 2023 sentencing of Felipe Tapia-Perez, who was convicted of firearm offenses related to the homicide of a four-year-old child. Tapia-Perez was sentenced to 14 years in prison.
- July 13, 2023 sentencing of Randy Coy James Holmes for shooting an undercover law enforcement officer. Holmes was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
- August 28, 2023 settlement agreement requiring Lincare Holdings to pay $29 million to resolve claims of overbilling Medicare for oxygen equipment.
- September 20, 2023 sentencing of Dylen Joseph Swan for 3-day crime spree involving a car chase, two shootings and an armed robbery. Swan was sentenced to 14 years in prison and was ordered to pay $21,515 in restitution.
- October 11, 2023 sentencing of Michael Gene Rice, who was convicted of producing and attempted production of child pornography. Rice was sentenced to 22 years in federal prison and ordered to pay $48,000 in restitution.
- December 12, 2023 sentencing of Christopher Bruce Gooch, who was convicted for an armed robbery at a Spokane Valley motel. Gooch was sentenced to 4 years in prison.
- January 24, 2024 arrest of 8 individuals in Moses Lake on drug trafficking charges and perpetration of violent crimes.
- February 22, 2024 sentencing of Ronald Walter Hannes for defrauding numerous Spokane victims of more than $3 million. Hannes was ordered to pay restitution to more than a dozen victims in the amount of $3.18 million.
- March 27, 2024 sentencing of Sundron Larsell Miller and Paula Eulojia Cantu-Lopez to decades in federal prison for violent carjacking and assault on the Yakama Nation.
- March 28, 2024 sentencing of Robert Wayne Hutton to 20 years in federal prison on child exploitation charges. Hutton was also ordered to pay $25,000 in restitution.
- April 15, 2024, a restitution hearing in U.S. v. Seth Randles was concluded. Randles was convicted of a violent sex trafficking offense and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Restitution was ordered in the amount of $304,212
- April 17, 2024 indictment of 34 individuals involved in drug distribution, cockfighting, and witness/victim intimidation.
U.S. Attorney Waldref added, “These representative cases demonstrate the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to protecting victims in Eastern Washington. My office will continue to identify and prosecute those who harm our citizens, and we will seek to hold accountable those who exploit vulnerable members of our community.”
More information about OVC, as well as resources for victims of crime, can be found here.
To commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, trees at the federal courthouses in Spokane, Richland and Yakima have been decorated with pink and purple ribbons.
U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of Washington U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of WashingtonSpokane Man Found with Methamphetamine and 1,700 Fentanyl Pills Sentenced to Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Henry Patrick Bevans, III, age 40, of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Possession with the Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 168 months imprisonment to be followed by 10 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in January of 2023, the Liberty Lake Police Department (LLPD) was investigating suspected drug trafficking at a local hotel. Officers observed a vehicle, suspected to be involved in drug related activity, parked at the hotel for several days.
On January 31, 2023, officers observed a man and a woman use the vehicle to drive from the hotel to a gas station a short distance away. An LLPD officer contacted the man driving and confirmed the man was Bevans. LLPD arrested Bevans on a felony warrant from the Department of Corrections. When he was arrested, Bevans was on supervised release following a 10-year prison sentence for a conviction in 2014 on drug distribution charges.
LLPD obtained and executed a state search warrant for the vehicle. Officers located 131 grams of methamphetamine, 1,750 fentanyl-laced pills, as well as a smaller amounts of other controlled substances inside the car. Officers also located a taser, an air pistol, a digital scale with drug residue, zip lock baggies and zip ties, a drug ledger, and more than $1,000 in cash inside the vehicle.
“Despite periods of incarceration and rehabilitation, Mr. Bevans continued to distribute dangerous and illicit controlled substances. My office is committed to stopping the flow of deadly drugs into our neighborhoods,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I’m grateful for the tireless dedication of all those that join us in this critical mission. By working together, we can effectively combat the opioid epidemic and make our communities safer and stronger.”
“People like Mr. Bevans, who persistently distribute drugs after completing their incarceration, present a clear danger to our communities,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The Drug Enforcement Administration and our partners are committed to ensuring the safety of our communities by holding people like Mr. Bevans accountable as many times as it takes to protect the public from this grave threat.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Liberty Lake Police Department.
34 Individuals from Across the United States Indicted on Charges of Criminal Conspiracy Involving Illegal Drugs, Firearms, Money Laundering, Cockfighting and Attempts to Kill WitnessesRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – United States Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref announced today that 28 people are in state or federal custody following the return of six separate indictments alleging more than two dozen charges against thirty-four separate defendants. Certain of the individuals indicted are not yet in federal custody.
The arrests follow a long-term joint federal and state investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives into La Nuestra Familia (NF), a violent prison gang responsible for trafficking dangerous drugs into our community for the enrichment of their members, which includes leaders of this organization who, in some cases, are serving life sentences in the United States Penitentiary, Administrative Maximum Facility in Florence, Colorado (USP Florence ADMAX). USP Florence ADMAX is one of the Bureau of Prisons’ most secure facilities, providing an even higher level of custody than a regular maximum-security prison.
The arrests are the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation that began in approximately 2018 and spanned multiple jurisdictions from various locations in Washington State, to include Yakima County, the Yakama Reservation, Spokane County, and Walla Walla County. The operation also extended into Louisiana, Colorado, and Arkansas.
The conspiracy indictment alleges Robert Patrick Hanrahan, Rigoberto Escobedo Gonzalez, Travis Michael McGuire, and Jose Alfredo Chavez Arredondo, acted as supervisors to dozens of individuals engaged in a continuing criminal enterprise that included possession and distribution of illegal drugs, cockfighting, possession of illegal firearms, illegal use of the U.S. Mail, and attempts to kill those who assisted law enforcement in this investigation. Multiple individuals have also been charged with laundering the proceeds made from these illicit ventures.
Upon release of the conspiracy indictment, which was unsealed earlier today upon the arrest of several suspects, United States Attorney Waldref stated, “I am grateful for the coordinated efforts of so many law enforcement agencies, who simultaneously executed more than twenty search warrants in the Yakima area and across the United States earlier today. More than 350 federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement came together to coordinate the takedown of this alleged drug trafficking operation.” U.S. Attorney Waldref continued, “It is an honor to lead important prosecutions, such as this one, which has removed illegal drugs and firearms from our community and illegal narcotics from the Bureau of Prisons. Our community and our nation are safer and stronger as a result of the incredible work of our law enforcement and prosecution teams.”
During the operation, agents seized approximately 37 firearms, thousands of rounds of ammunition, pound quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine, as well as more than 8,000 fentanyl-laced pills. Additionally, the law enforcement team seized more than $20,000 in U.S. currency. Agents also seized hundreds of roosters from locations in Zillah and Outlook, Washington. The roosters were allegedly used in cockfights. Many of the roosters are being turned over to the care of Heartwood Haven Animal Rescue located in Roy, Washington.
According to unsealed charging documents, the following individuals have been in connection with ATF’s joint investigation. The United States anticipates bringing additional charges against other individuals identified during the execution of search warrants early today. In addition, the names of others indicted in connection with this investigation will be unsealed upon the arrest of those individuals.
- Fabian Arredondo a/k/a “DV,” 34, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances and Conspiracy to Launder Money.
- Joanna Arredondo, 34, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Jose Alfredo Chavez Arredondo a/k/a “Cuyi,” 43, charged with Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl, Distribution of Cocaine, Conspiracy to Launder Money, Unlawful Animal Fighting
- Jose Alfredo Ricardo Arredondo a/k/a “Papaz,” 25, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Distribution of Cocaine, Unlawful Possession of a Machinegun
- Alexa Joann Carras-Blackburn, 35, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Pablo Angel Castellon a/k/a “Sapo,” 40, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Mayda Ivette Castellon, 36, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Jacenir Amezcua Dasilva a/k/a “Serio,” 30, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money, Attempt to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness, Conspiracy to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness
- Marco Anthony Gomez, Jr. a/k/a “Silky,” 45, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Rigoberto Escobedo Gonzalez a/k/a “Crazy Thugg,” 35, charged with Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Distribution of Cocaine, Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Robert Patrick Hanrahan a/k/a “Bubba,” 52, charged with Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Jazmine Renea Hart, 32, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Maria Esperanza Hermoso, 28, Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Adrean Kendall Lafollette a/k/a “Hunger,” 33, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Travis Michael Mcguire a/k/a “Slim,” 49, charged with Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Conspiracy to Unlawfully Use a Communication Facility, Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl, Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Jesus Antonio Mirelez a/k/a “Dizzy,” 34, Conspiracy to Launder Money, Felon in Possession of a Firearm
- Felipe Feliciano Ramirez a/k/a “Casper,” 44, charged with Conspiracy to Unlawfully Use a Communications Facility, Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Logan Paul Scheck a/k/a “Sin,” 31, Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Brian Lee Sellers, 62, charged with Conspiracy to Unlawfully Use a Communications Facility, Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Misael Vazquez-Moreno, 26, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl
- Fernando Villegas, 25, charged with Unlawful Animal Fighting
- Thomas Lee Weatherwax a/k/a “Wax,” 25, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, Conspiracy to Launder Money
- Yesika Escobedo Zaragoza, 40, charged with Conspiracy to Money Launder
- Arthur Frank Cardenas a/k/a “Porkchop,” 45, charged with Attempt to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness, Conspiracy to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness
- Joshua Isaac Stine a/k/a “Heat,” 39, charged with Attempt to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness, Conspiracy to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness
- Hugo Enrique Davadi a/k/a “Flako,” 36, charged with Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl
Certain of the individuals will be arraigned at the Yakima and Spokane Federal Courthouses at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 19.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation along with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S Marshals Service, U.S. Border Patrol, Federal Bureau of Prisons, ICE Enforcement Removal Operations, Washington State Patrol, Washington State Department of Corrections, Washington State Gambling Commission, Yakima Police Department, Yakima County Sheriff’s Office, Grandview Police Department, Walla Walla Regional Drug Task Force, Selah Police Department, Spokane Police Department, and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys from the Eastern District of Washington are prosecuting the case. Former AUSA Frances Walker was the initial prosecutor on the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Spokane Tribal Member Found Guilty of Assaulting His Partner with a Knife and Attempting to Suffocate HerRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that a jury returned a verdict on April 9, 2024, following the trial of 40-year-old Marvin Samson Butterfly. Butterfly was found guilty of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Indian Country, Assault of an Intimate Partner and Dating Partner by Suffocating and Attempting to Suffocate in Indian Country, and Attempted Witness Tampering.
Evidence introduced at trial established that on September 16, 2023, officers with the Spokane Tribal Police Department were called to a home in Ford, Washington for a reported domestic assault. The victim told officers that Butterfly, who is an enrolled member of the Spokane Tribe, assaulted her. Butterfly was upset with the victim because the victim had let another woman shelter in her home because of the cold weather. Butterfly began shouting, took out a long knife and began stabbing the floors, doors, and furniture. Butterfly then assaulted the victim by holding the knife against her throat and said, “this is how you kill someone.” Butterfly pushed the victim down on the couch, placed his hand over the victim’s mouth and attempted to suffocate her. Butterfly used such force; it left a bruise. The victim was able to pry Butterfly’s fingers off her face. Butterfly then left the home in the victim’s vehicle. Officers found Butterfly the next morning asleep in the victim’s vehicle. He was arrested and taken to the Spokane County Jail.
On November 2, 2023, while in jail, Butterfly placed a recorded telephone call to his neighbor. During the call, Butterfly made several statements indicating he did not want the victim to testify. Butterfly encouraged his neighbor to stress to the victim that he would be coming home if she did not speak to investigators.
United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice presided over the trial, which began on April 8, 2024. Sentencing in this matter is set for July 10, 2024.
“Everyone deserves to live in a safe home free of violence. Native Americans experience some of the highest rates of violence in the country, a situation that is more tragic in light of the generations of trauma already suffered by Indigenous people, especially Native American women,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “By working with our tribal and federal law enforcement partners, we can continue to build trust and foster safer and stronger communities on Tribal lands and throughout Eastern Washington.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Spokane Tribal Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Ellis.
Grandview Man Sentenced to Prison for Starting Destructive Fires Causing Millions in Property DamageRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Christopher Vaughn Schlax, age 48, of Grandview, Washington has been sentenced after pleading guilty to three counts of Damage by Fire to a Building or Personal Property Used in Interstate and Foreign Commerce. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian imposed a sentence of 60 months imprisonment to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, Schlax was involved in a series of burglaries on June 27, 2022. A short time later, Schlax and an alleged accomplice traveled to the Lineage Logistics warehouse in Grandview, Washington. To distract first responders from the burglaries, Schlax set fire to a pallet storage area at the warehouse. The fire caused $423,654 in property damage to the warehouse and presented a significant danger to firefighters called to fight the fire.
Early in the morning of July 4, 2022, Schlax and the alleged accomplice made plans to burglarize the Dollar Tree store in Grandview. To distract from the burglary, Schlax and the alleged accomplice first drove to the fruit bin lot of River Valley Fruit. Schlax got out of the vehicle and lit a fire. The fire caused more than $1.5 million in damage to River Valley Fruit’s property.
A short time later, Schlax and the alleged accomplice attempted to carry out their plan to burglarize the Dollar Tree. Schlax used a cutting torch to cut into a safe in the office of the Dollar Tree store. As a result, Schlax started a fire inside the Dollar Tree. The arson caused more than $1.8 million in damage to the Dollar Tree building and property.
“Mr. Schlax not only committed burglaries, but then, to cover up his crimes, he started fires that endangered firefighters, law enforcement and members of the community. The fires started by Mr. Schlax also caused millions of dollars in property damage,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am grateful for our first responders who keep our community safe. I also want to commend the excellent work of our law enforcement partners and federal prosecutors involved in this case.”
“ATF is the only U.S. Government agency with fire and arson investigation as part of its core mission,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “For Mr. Schlax to intentionally start fires to distract first responders from his burglaries is especially cruel. Because of the destruction and danger he caused to the community, this sentence is clearly warranted.”
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Pratten and former AUSA Frances Walker, who indicted the case.
The alleged accomplice has been indicted on charges of Damage by Fire to a Building or Personal Property Used in Interstate and Foreign Commerce. The accomplice, who has entered a not guilty plea, was arraigned on November 14, 2022, and is currently awaiting trial. The indictment against the accomplice contains mere allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Yakima Man Who Sold Pound Quantities of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl in the Yakima Valley Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Jesse Lee Johnson, 36, of Yakima, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Methamphetamine. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 120 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Johnson’s codefendant, Ronald Lee Ralston, was sentenced on February 27, 2024, to 138 months in prison and 5 years supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at trial and the sentencing hearing, the FBI developed information that Johnson and Ralston, were distributing large amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl from Ralston’s home in Selah, Washington.
FBI Task Force members arranged for a confidential informant to set up a controlled buy at Ralston’s house. On May 4, 2023, the informant arrived at the home and tried to purchase methamphetamine from Ralston. However, Ralston said the methamphetamine he had on hand was spoken for and not for sale. While no sale took place that day, Ralston and Johnson were captured on video discussing future drug sales.
On May 16, the informant returned to Ralston’s home and purchased one pound of methamphetamine and 100 pills of fentanyl from Ralston and Johnson for $2,000. Ralston also told the informant he could get any amount of methamphetamine and fentanyl with 24-hour notice.
A search warrant was executed on June 7, 2023, at Ralston’s residence. In Ralston’s trailer, located on the property, law enforcement seized 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine, other controlled substances, and two firearms. In the main residence, law enforcement officers seized another firearm and an additional half-pound of methamphetamine.
“Mr. Johnson and Ralston were distributing large amounts of illicit drugs into our communities. Discovering and dismantling illegal drug supply chains is a main priority for my office,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I’m grateful for our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, who work closely with federal prosecutors to stop drug distributors and make Eastern Washington safer and stronger.”
“The FBI and our partners are committed to removing deadly drugs from Washington state, which are so often accompanied by violent crime and addiction,” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “This sentence should serve as a reminder that we will hold drug traffickers accountable and that these crimes have consequences.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Yakima County Sheriff’s Office, Customs and Border Protection and the Selah Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Swensen.
Washington Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Second-Degree Murder and Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Silaz Elijah James, age 19, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Second-Degree Murder and one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 240 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release as well as $6,620 in restitution.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on April 13, 2022, James, who is an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation, got into an argument with his victim about money. As James walked out of the house in Toppenish, where the argument took place, he turned and fired a single shot from a pistol. The shot stuck the victim in the chest, killing her. James then got into a vehicle with two other people. As the driver of the vehicle pulled away, James fired two additional shots at people standing outside the home. Neither of those shots stuck anyone.
On April 7, 2023, the Court granted the United States’s motion to transfer James’s case from juvenile to adult status. On January 9, 2024, James, who was 17 at the time of the offense, pleaded guilty.
“This case is tragic in every way. A young lady’s life was taken and Mr. James will spend the next several years in federal prison. Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragic and senseless crime. No sentence will ever erase the tragic loss of the life of the victim,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am grateful to the FBI and the Yakama Nation Tribal Police as well as the Assistant United States Attorneys from my office who worked to see this case through and seek justice on behalf of the young life that was taken.”
“Mr. James’s decisions ended the life of one person and put other innocent bystanders in immediate danger.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “His actions demonstrated a disregard for the lives of people around him. Our hope is that the victim’s loved ones find some solace with today’s sentence.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yakama Nation Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Murphy.
Nine Mile Falls Man Who Used a Hidden Camera to Produce Child Pornography Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Robert Wayne Hutton, age 60, of Nine Mile Falls, Washington, was sentenced on child exploitation charges. On January 3, 2024, Hutton pleaded guilty to Possession of Child Pornography. On January 16, 2024, after a bench trial before United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke, Hutton was found guilty of Production and Attempted Production of Child Pornography. Judge Dimke imposed a sentence of 240 months of imprisonment to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release. Judge Dimke also ordered restitution in the amount of $25,000 be paid to Hutton’s production victim.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between May 2021 and May 2022, Hutton secretly recorded a minor using a bathroom. Hutton placed a camera, hidden in a clock radio, on a bathroom counter in order to film the victim nude and create child pornography. The camera was wirelessly linked to Hutton’s smartphone, which Hutton used to view the recordings. Trial evidence also included Hutton’s 2009 Washington state conviction for Communication with a Minor for Immoral Purposes, based on sexual statements Hutton made in person and via text messages to a 15-year old girl.
Law enforcement obtained a search warrant and seized several electronic devices belonging to Hutton, including the hidden camera, Hutton’s phone, and several computers. A forensic review of the phone and computers revealed several video files and 33 images of the minor in various stages of undress, as well as hundreds of additional child pornography files.
“For months, Mr. Hutton used a secret camera to record images of a young victim. He was also engaged in online trading of child pornography with similar-minded offenders. Our office prioritizes these offenses against our community’s youngest and most vulnerable and will continue to aggressively prosecute those who harm children,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I want to commend our law enforcement partners, as well as our prosecutors and support staff for bringing justice for the victims and accountability to this defendant.”
“This child predator engaged in behavior that was a betrayal of trust and a heinous exploitation of unsuspecting victims,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “Collectively, we cannot tolerate such egregious acts that strip away the dignity of victims and provide the opportunity for revictimization. HSI will pursue these perpetrators tirelessly, seeking to end the abuse associated with images of child exploitation wherever it may be found.”
“This case was particularly heinous; the victim was preyed upon by someone in a position of trust. Though there is nothing my office can do to undo the hurt this victim has felt, I hope that healing can begin with this conviction,” said Erika George, Prosecuting Attorney for Stevens County. “I would like to thank the Stevens County Sheriff’s Office for their hard work in their investigation, and I am equally grateful for the efforts of the US Attorney’s Office in their successful prosecution.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Stevens County Sheriff’s Office. State charges were filed by the Stevens County Prosecutor’s Office, and the federal case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ann Wick.
White Swan Couple Sentenced to Federal Prison for Carjacking and Violent Assault on the Yakama NationRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Sundron Larsell Miller, age 37, to 25 years in federal prison for Carjacking, Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Assault with Intent to Commit Murder. The Court also sentenced Miller’s codefendant, Paula Eulojia Cantu-Lopez, age 28, to 17 years in federal prison for Carjacking, Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. Chief District Judge Bastian imposed 5 years of federal supervision on both defendants upon their release from custody. Miller and Cantu-Lopez are each from White Swan, Washington.
According to court documents and information presented at trial and the sentencing hearing, Miller and Cantu-Lopez were romantically involved. On December 28, 2021, the victim was with both Miller and Cantu-Lopez driving in the area of Fort Simcoe Road on the Yakama Reservation. The victim was driving her pickup, and Miller began assaulting Cantu-Lopez. When the victim tried to intervene, both Miller and Cantu-Lopez turned and assaulted the victim, who is an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation.
During the assault, the victim was pulled out of her own truck, and Miller attempted to shoot the victim with her own rifle. Miller pointed the rifle at the victim’s face, and the victim saw Miller pull the trigger and heard a “clicking “sound. Fortunately, the rifle was unloaded. After attempting to kill the victim, Miller and Cantu-Lopez beat the victim, threw her in the back of the truck and drove her to a residence in White Swan. After arriving at the residence, the victim was again beaten by Miller and Cantu-Lopez.
Ultimately, the victim was able to break away and run for her life. The Yakama Nation Police Department quickly responded and collected evidence of the crimes. The Federal Bureau of Investigation also assisted in the investigation.
Chief District Judge Bastian presided over the trial which began on August 7, 2023. A jury returned verdicts on August 11, 2023.
“The victim in this case suffered horrifying acts of violence. I applaud her bravery in escaping, and her courage to come forward and engage with law enforcement to seek justice,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am grateful for our strong partnerships with the Yakama Nation Tribal Police Department, the FBI, and community members. By working together, we can continue to build trust and foster safer and stronger communities on Tribal lands and throughout Eastern Washington.”
“The victim in this case was trying to break up an altercation when she became the target of a violent assault.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Fortunately, she was able to escape before being killed by Mr. Miller and Ms. Cantu-Lopez. The FBI is dedicated in working with our partners to put an end to this type of violence on our state’s reservations.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yakama Nation Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Michael Murphy, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Spokane Bank Manager Pleads Guilty to Stealing more than $345,000Read the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Jessica Ann Marshall, age 27, of Spokane, Washington, pleaded guilty to one count of Theft and Embezzlement by Bank Employee. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice accepted Marshall’s guilty plea, and set sentencing for June 27, 2024, in Spokane.
According to court documents, between June 2023 and September 2023, Marshall was working as a Bank Manager at the Bank of Idaho’s downtown Spokane, Washington branch. Using her position as a manager, Marshall stole and embezzled at least $345,664 in cash from the bank vault, ATM, and her cash drawer.
Marshall falsified documents to reconcile the cash and directed bank employees to sign falsified count sheets in order to hide her theft and embezzlement. Marshall also used her position as Bank Manger to make fraudulent deposit transactions into her spouse’s account. These fraudulent transactions reflected that money was being deposited into the account; however, no funds were deposited.
When Bank of Idaho inquired about the deposits into her spouse’s account, Marshall attempted to conceal her conduct by using a co-worker’s email account to send an e-mail with false information. Marshall then accessed the computer of another co-worker to delete an email from Bank of Idaho inquiring about the deposits.
“Bankers and financial professionals are given an extraordinary amount of trust. When they abuse that trust to commit theft and line their own pockets, they devastate our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Vanessa Waldref. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to hold those accountable who use their position to enrich themselves.”
“In only several months of employment, Ms. Marshall betrayed her company’s and clients’ trust by misusing her access to accounts, stealing a large sum of money, and attempting to cover up the crime,” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “The FBI, together with our partners, will continue to investigate financial crimes and bring unethical behavior to light.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Spokane Resident Agency. Assistant United States Attorney Dan Fruchter is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
Case No. 2:24-CR-00040-TOR
Former Town Clerk and Town Council Member Indicted for Stealing More Than $195,000 from Town of CusickRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – On March 19, 2024, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Luke Michael Servas, age 38, with 25 counts of Wire Fraud, 26 counts of Bank Fraud and 25 counts of Aggravated Identity Theft.
According to court documents, Servas embezzled more than $195,000 while employed as the Town Clerk for the town of Cusick, Washington between October 2022 and March 2023. During that time period, Servas was also an elected member of the town council.
Like many cities and towns, Cusick residents elect a town council, which selects a town clerk. The clerk has responsibility to keep accurate records of city council financial accounts, and acted as custodian for Cusick’s operating bank account used to receive and safeguard public funds and to make public expenditures on behalf of the town. Cusick’s account also had two credit cards issued to make purchases on behalf of the town: one issued to Cusick’s elected mayor, and one issued to Servas as town clerk. Both credit cards were only for authorized public purchases and expenses, and were only to be used by the specific official to whom they were issued.
The Indictment alleges that Servas fraudulently and without authority used the mayor’s town credit card, as well as his own town credit card, to embezzle and transfer more than $190,000 in public town funds from Cusick’s bank account to PayPal accounts owned and controlled by Servas and his spouse, and to a cryptocurrency account owned and controlled by Servas.
According to the Indictment, in March of 2023, other town officials expressed concern that funds were missing from the town’s account. The Indictment alleges that Servas then contacted the Pend Oreille County Sheriff’s Office to report that between $150,000 and $200,000 had been stolen from the Town of Cusick’s operating bank account, using the mayor’s credit card account to which Servas stated only the mayor had access. The Indictment further alleges that, after making this report, Servas wrote a fraudulent $4,961 check from Cusick’s account to himself, forged the mayor’s signature as well as that of another town official, and cashed the check on or about March 20, 2023.
“An elected public official, entrusted with the funds to keep communities safe and strong, has a moral duty and legal responsibility to protect that money”, stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “My office is committed to stopping all fraudsters, especially those who abuse their positions of trust.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Spokane Resident Agency, with investigative and logistical support from the Pend Oreille County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington State Auditor’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Fruchter.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Toppenish Man Sentenced to Prison for Strangling and Threatening His Partner with a FirearmRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Tyler Jonas Senator, age 24, of Toppenish, Washington has been sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, and one count of Assault of a Spouse, Intimate Partner, or Dating Partner by Strangling or Suffocating. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian imposed a sentence of 84 months and 1 day imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on April 23, 2023, Senator, and his partner, who are both enrolled members of the Yakama Nation, were driving in the victim’s vehicle. Senator assaulted the victim by grabbing the victim’s neck and strangling her, leaving bruises and scratches around the victim’s throat. Later that day, Senator and the victim were inside their house in Toppenish. Senator resumed the assault, hitting, kicking, and biting the victim. Senator also hit the victim in the head with the butt of a rifle, then pointed the firearm at the victim and threatened her.
“Mr. Senator assaulted the victim, who is the mother of his young child, by choking her and hitting her with a firearm. I commend the bravery of the victim in coming forward,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Everyone deserves to live in a safe home free of domestic violence. We recognize that indigenous communities suffer domestic violence at much higher rates than many other demographics. We are committed to addressing violent crimes in Indian country and elsewhere and holding perpetrators accountable.”
“While no sentence will take away the horror of being assaulted by a trusted partner, we hope this case shows our continued commitment to fighting back against violent crime on our state’s reservations,” said Kelly M. Smith, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Yakama Nation Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Murphy.
Richland Physician, Health Care Staffing Company Agree to Pay $700,000 to Resolve False Claims Act Liability Arising from Telemedicine SchemeRead the Press Release
Richland, WA – Physician Edward William Salko, D.O., formerly of Richland, Washington, and Jackson & Coker LocumTenens, LLC (JCLT) agreed to pay $700,000 to resolve allegations that they participated in a kick-back scheme to bill Medicare for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (DME) and diagnostic laboratory testing announced Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Medicare provides health insurance to elderly and disabled United States citizens. Medicare pays for covered health services, including DME and genetic laboratory testing, under certain conditions. In order for DME and genetic laboratory testing to be covered under Medicare, the DME or laboratory test must be ordered by a physician who is treating the beneficiary for a specific medical problem, and must be used as part of the course of treatment for that specific medical problem.
According to court documents, JCLT is a healthcare staffing company that sources physicians and other medical professionals for clients. Between April and September 2021, Dr. Salko was retained through JCLT to provide contracted telemedicine services for a company known as Nationwide Health Advocates (Nationwide). Nationwide employed telemarketing companies to target and contact Medicare beneficiaries, and to speak with them about obtaining DME or laboratory testing at no cost to the beneficiaries. The telemarketers obtained personal information from the beneficiary and used it to generate a physician order for the DME or laboratory test, and supporting documentation that made it appear as though the physician was treating the beneficiary for a specific medical problem and ordering the DME or test as part of the course of that treatment. Nationwide then provided the physician order and supporting documentation electronically to Dr. Salko, who electronically signed the orders, after which they were billed to Medicare. Nationwide then paid JCLT, and JCLT paid Dr. Salko, for each order that he reviewed, nearly all of which he approved. Dr. Salko was not treating, and never even spoke to, any of the beneficiaries for whom he placed orders through Nationwide.
In September 2023, David Santana, the former owner and president of Nationwide, agreed to plead guilty to felony health care fraud conspiracy charges brought in the District of Massachusetts, in connection with Santana and Nationwide’s participation in the health care fraud scheme and conspiracy to fraudulently bill Medicare for DME and genetic testing services. In the Plea Agreement, Santana admitted to his and Nationwide’s participation in the scheme to fraudulently bill Medicare for false DME and laboratory testing physician orders issued by physicians who were not treating the purported beneficiaries.
“Physicians and health care staffing cannot ignore red flags about whether they are engaged in a Medicare fraud scheme,” said United States Attorney Waldref. “Schemes like that employed by Nationwide only work when doctors are willing to turn a blind eye and issue prescriptions and orders for patients that they are not treating. This settlement is a signal to physicians that they will be held accountable for participating in health care fraud schemes.”
“Providers and entities who exploit Medicare through fraudulent telemedicine schemes violate the trust of enrollees and waste valuable taxpayer dollars,” said Steven J. Ryan, Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This settlement demonstrates HHS-OIG’s unwavering commitment to root out and hold accountable those who put profit and personal gain ahead of the provision of legitimate medical services.”
According to the Settlement Agreement, JCLT cooperated fully with the United States’ investigation, and has taken significant remedial actions designed to improve its legal and compliance efforts and internal controls related to placing providers with telemedicine clients.
“I credit JCLT with stepping up, taking responsibility, and taking steps to prevent occurrences like these in the future,” continued United States Attorney Waldref. “Health care staffing companies like JCLT play an important role in ensuring that contract physician opportunities are appropriately vetted for legal compliance and possible fraud. I also commend the exceptional investigative work by, and our close partnership with, HHS-OIG, which made this result possible. We will continue working with health care providers, medical staffing companies, and our law enforcement partners to combat telemedicine and telemarketing fraud schemes that prey on elderly and disabled members of the community.”
The settlement was the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Seattle Field Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Dan Fruchter and Tyler H.L. Tornabene, and Law Clerk Jacquelyn Nader, handled this matter on behalf of the United States.
The settlement agreement can be viewed here.Tri-Cities Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Larry Jay Halls, age 54, of the Tri-Cities, was sentenced today after pleading guilty to Receipt of Child Pornography. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 78 months imprisonment to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. Judge Dimke also imposed $12,000 in restitution.
Judge Dimke’s comments at sentencing focused on the impact on the victims and how the children in this case have been affected for the rest of their lives. Judge Dimke also highlighted the fact that Halls distributed 10,000 images and more than 600 videos to three separate undercover agents, demonstrating that Halls was distributing child pornography for a long period of time: “The quantity of images is substantial, but also the amount of particular victims’ images – the number of those images for any one victim is indicative of the viewer knowing how much abuse that victim was subjected to. That is significant to the court.”
In pronouncing the sentence, Judge Dimke emphasized that Mr. Halls apologized to her, but never once apologized or expressed remorse for what happened to the victims depicted in the child pornography Mr. Halls possessed and distributed.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, in February of 2021, investigators with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) linked image and video files depicting the sexual abuse of children (child pornography) on a file sharing program with an IP address assigned to Halls’s address in Kennewick, Washington.
On March 18, 2021, investigators executed a search warrant at Halls’s residence and located a desktop computer. The on-scene forensic examiner previewed the device and discovered it was actively downloading child pornography utilizing the aforementioned file sharing program. Ultimately, a forensic analysis of the desktop computer seized from Halls’s residence revealed more than 600 images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children.
When Halls was interviewed by investigators, he admitted to downloading files depicting the sexual abuse of children as early as 2018. Furthermore, Halls told investigators he had looked at such files twice the day before the search warrant was executed and that he had developed a sexual interest in children.
Following his guilty plea, while on pre-sentence release, Halls violated specific court ordered conditions designed to keep the community, and specifically, children within the community, safe. In July of 2023, despite a prohibition on loitering within 500 feet of any playground, park, athletic field or facility, Halls went to a miniature golf facility, a location frequented by children. Later that month, Halls left his home without approval from the United States Probation Office and went to a gas station directly across from an athletic field. During the same timeframe, Halls traveled to an unknown residence and apartment complex in violation of his monitoring requirements. On September 5, 2023, Halls’s pre-sentence release was revoked, and Halls was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending his sentencing hearing.
“For years Mr. Halls sought out depictions of children being abused and then shared those pictures with others online. Following his arrest, Mr. Halls ignored the conditions of his release and traveled to locations where young children were present,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Today’s sentence sends a clear message to those who seek to victimize children: The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners will continue to work tirelessly to seek justice for vulnerable populations."
“Each day HSI and its law enforcement partners bravely confront the harrowing reality of online predators,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “Today’s sentencing serves as a reminder of the perilous landscape our children navigate online. Let us unite in our resolve to shield our most vulnerable from the dangers lurking in the digital abyss. Every click, every download, carries the potential to inflict harm. May this case embolden us to fortify our defenses and safeguard the sanctity of childhood against those who would seek to exploit it.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (SER-ICAC). This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alison Gregoire and Laurel Holland.
Kennewick Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Prison for Possessing More Than a Dozen WeaponsRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Kyle Keith Trapp age 61, of Kennewick, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 78 months imprisonment to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on January 7, 2023, an assault victim arrived at a hospital in the Tri-Cities, bleeding and missing several teeth. He told law enforcement several individuals had beaten him and accused him of stealing drugs from Trapp.
Law enforcement obtained and executed a search warrant for Trapp’s residence. Investigators located 18 firearms including 5 shotguns, 8 rifles, and 5 handguns. Two of the weapons had unknown serial numbers, a third was a privately manufactured firearm or “ghost gun”. Officers located a quantity of ammunition and miscellaneous gun parts. Investigators also located approximately 300 grams of suspected heroin and substances used to mix with heroin for the purpose of distribution, 9 grams of suspected methamphetamine and various drug paraphernalia.
Trapp told detectives the assault and kidnapping happened at his residence, but he did not contact police because he had guns and drugs at his house. He also admitted to distributing heroin and trading guns for drugs. Furthermore, he told detectives he knew he was prohibited from possessing guns because of his prior felony.
“This case is an example of the culture of violence and dangerous behavior which surrounds drug distribution. Mr. Trapp had drugs, and more than a dozen illegal firearms, including a ghost gun, stashed at his house,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “My office will continue to target violent offenders who threaten the safety of our communities.”
“Mr. Trapp knew he was barred from possessing firearms but demonstrated his complete disregard for the law and safety of his community.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “In addition to illegally possessing numerous weapons, he was distributing dangerous drugs into the community. I commend the work of our investigators and partners, whose hard work brought justice through putting this violent offender back in prison.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca Perez.
Gang Member Who Threatened to Burn Down a Yakima Bar Sentenced to 57 Months for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Alexis Nunez, 23, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 57 months imprisonment to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on March 29, 2022, in the Yakima County Superior Court, Nunez was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment (concurrent) for two separate felony offenses. On July 25, 2022, Nunez was released from state prison. Six months after his release from prison, on January 25, 2023, officers with the Yakima Police Department responded to the Little Dutch Inn bar. Nunez had been drinking alcohol and became agitated when he was told he would no longer be served. Witnesses said they heard Nunez make threatening statements, including that “he would have his homies shoot up the bar and burn it down.” Nunez also bragged that he recently had been released from prison.
YPD Officers observed Nunez and another person walking a short distance from the bar. As officers approached, they saw Nunez throw a black handgun. Officers then arrested Nunez. The firearm was a Taurus, Model G3 semi-automatic pistol. The magazine was loaded with more than 15 rounds of ammunition. Officers also discovered marijuana that was possessed for the purposes of sale.
On March 29, 2022, Nunez had been convicted of Attempting to Elude a Police Vehicle, a felony, in Yakima County Superior Court. Because of this conviction, Nunez could not legally possess a firearm.
“Alcohol, firearms, and felons can be a deadly combination. Mr. Nunez made violent threats to employees and was armed with an illegal firearm. I’m grateful no one was hurt,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “My office prioritizes cases that involve dangerous felons who illegally possess firearms. Along with our law enforcement partners, we will continue our collaborative, focused efforts to target violent offenders and make our communities safer and stronger.”
“As U.S. Attorney Waldref said, felons and firearms don’t mix, especially when alcohol is added into the mix,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “We’re thankful that Yakima Police Department was able to apprehend Mr. Nunez quickly and remove him from the streets. Hopefully this sentence will give him time to think about his life choices and change them going forward.”
"Ensuring our community’s safety is our highest priority. The successful conviction of Mr. Nunez highlights the indispensable collaboration between the Yakima Police Department and our federal partners. These joint efforts underscore the commitment to safeguarding our community from violent offenders,” said Yakima Police Chief Matthew Murray.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Yakima Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas J. Hanlon.
Spokane Drug Dealer Involved in Large-Scale Drug Trafficking Conspiracy and Violent Spokane-Area Shooting Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Amy Katherin Riggs, 36, of Dayton, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Methamphetamine and 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl. U.S. Senior District Judge Rosanna Malouf Peterson imposed a sentence of 132 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was investigating a drug trafficking organization with significant ties to the Eastern District of Washington. Investigators developed information that Riggs was a key facilitator for the organization as well as one of its biggest clients. The evidence showed Riggs was obtaining and distributing approximately $125,000 worth of heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl pills into the community per month. Riggs would receive between one-half to one kilogram of heroin, up to 10,000 fentanyl pills, and one to two pounds of methamphetamine.
When members of the organization were arrested by law enforcement, Riggs would attempt to determine if they were “rats,” meaning cooperating. She also would go to organization locations where search warrants were executed and collect the search warrant returns (documents required to be left by law enforcement) , itemizing the items seized. She also would take anything of value law enforcement might have inadvertently missed. For example, when a search warrant was executed at an organization stash house on Maxwell Avenue in Spokane on January 2022, , law enforcement located over three kilograms of fentanyl pills, a half pound of methamphetamine, a quarter pound of heroin, and several firearms. On the same date, a drug courier was arrested, as he came out of a stash house on the South Hill, with over two kilograms of methamphetamine, just shy of two kilograms of fentanyl pills, a large amount of U.S. Currency, and multiple firearms. Following the execution of these search warrants, Riggs reported to the leader of the organization in Mexico the items that were seized and checked the jail rosters to ensure the individuals were booked in jail – noting to the leader that if they were not, they knew the organization had a “rat” in its inner circle.
In addition, Riggs became a self-styled enforcer for the organization, to earn favor with the leader of the organization, who resides in Mexico. For example, on February 6, 2022, a drug courier for the organization was delivering approximately fifteen-to twenty pounds of methamphetamine and approximately 50,000 fentanyl-laced pills to a man named Brady Baughman in the Spokane area. Baughman tried to pay the courier for the drugs with fake U.S. Currency. The courier would not accept the fake money, so Baughman robbed the drug courier and sped off in his vehicle. Another member of the drug organization, who was present at the robbery, had left her iPad in Baughman’s vehicle and was able to track the device’s location. The couriers then called the leader of the drug organization in Mexico and informed him of the robbery. The leader then asked Riggs to get the drugs back.
Using the iPad’s location, which was relayed to her by the leader in Mexico, Riggs was able to track Baughman’s location. She also was able to text at least three other individuals to assist in locating Baughman, to include Daniel Skjold and her paramour Jody Wallette. In those text messages, Riggs sent details of Baughman’s identity, vehicle, and suspected location.
A short time later, a 911 caller reported an SUV-type vehicle shooting at another vehicle near the intersection of Nettleton and Rowan in Spokane. Responding law enforcement located seven 9mm shell casings in the area. Around that same time, Riggs’s Range Rover SUV was captured on camera in the area of the shooting. Other surveillance video showed a vehicle consistent with the Riggs’s vehicle traveling in the area and captured what appeared to be images of the driver shooting a handgun out the window.
Baughman was later apprehended by Spokane Police, and large kitty litter containers were recovered containing the methamphetamine and fentanyl pills stolen from the runner. Skjold was later arrested on multiple separate state charges stemming from a domestic-violence related drive-by-shooting case, which also involved unlawful possession of a firearm and witness tampering. Skjold later was sentenced to approximately 20 years in state prison for her role in the shooting. Wallette was later arrested on separate federal drug trafficking charges and was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison.
Later on in the investigation, in April of 2022, investigators located a new organization stash house on Nebraska Avenue in Spokane. On several occasions, Riggs was observed arriving and exiting the stash house. Investigators also observed Riggs meet with individuals identified as drug users and engaging in activities consistent with distributing drugs.
On April 13, 2022, a search warrant was executed at the Nebraska Avenue stash house. Riggs was at the home at the time the warrant was executed. During the search, agents found a small of amount of methamphetamine, and ecstasy pills inside Riggs’s purse. In the living room, agents located a quarter pound of methamphetamine sitting on a coffee table. Agents also located two 9mm pistols hidden behind a false wall in the residence. A few days prior to the execution of the search warrant, a separte warrant was executed on Rigg’s Range Rover and $13,000 in U.S. Currency, and the cell phone used during the robbery were located, as well as a .22 caliber firearm that was located in a backpack with paperwork for Riggs as well as Wallette.
An additional stash house was located in Spokane on Walnut Street in May 2022. Physical surveillance revealed a drug courier was utilizing a Lexus vehicle, registered to Riggs, to distribute drugs in the Spokane area. Law enforcement stopped the drug courier as they were leaving stash house, resulting in the recovery of more than two pounds of methamphetamine, six firearms, and around 3,000 fentanyl pills.
During sentencing, Judge Peterson noted Riggs was engaged in “very egregious” conduct by moving massive amounts of drugs into the community – drugs that destroy families – and did so while armed, which increases the danger to all. Judge Peterson also noted Riggs’ text messages showed the clear enthusiastic involvement Riggs had for her continued participation in the organization. In pronouncing the eleven year sentence, Judge Peterson also stated her concern with Riggs’s stated intent to continue her relationship with Wallette, warning Riggs that she will be judged by the company she keeps, and her continued association with him would be “determinantal to [her] future.”
“Ms. Riggs engaged in trafficking significant amounts of illegal narcotics in our community. She also had a reputation as someone who would use violence to accomplish the bidding of drug trafficking organizations,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “My office is committed to stopping the flow of deadly narcotics into our neighborhoods. We will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute dangerous individuals involved with drug trafficking to make our communities safer and stronger.”
“Ms. Riggs played a key role in a drug trafficking organization the dealt large amounts of fentanyl and methamphetamine to our community,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The DEA and our partners worked hard in this case to stop her and this sentence will protect our community from the deadly trifecta of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and firearms that Ms. Riggs brought to our area.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Spokane Police Department, and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin Baunsgard.
Armed Felon Sentenced to More Than 6 Years in Prison for Possessing Multiple FirearmsRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Mark Steven White, age 44 of Kennewick Washington, was sentenced today after pleading guilty to two counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 78 months imprisonment to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on May 15, 2022, Officers with the Kennewick Police Department (KPD) responded to a hit and run incident. Office observed a white Toyota 4Runner on its side, along the road. Officers learned the driver of the 4Runner had driven onto the sidewalk, hit a pile of dirt, then rolled onto its side. The 4Runner was unoccupied. After responding to the scene, a KPD officer observed a black handgun laying on the floorboard of the driver seat of the 4Runner.
Officers identified a set of shoe impressions in the dirt near the 4Runner. Witnesses reported a loud bang then saw a man, later identified as White, who was wearing a white t-shirt, shorts, and tennis shoes, climb out the window of the 4Runner. White then took off running north. KPD ultimately detained White just four blocks from the hit and run. Officers also matched the tread pattern from White’s shoes to the pattern in the footprints near the 4Runner.
White was cited and released for Hit and Run by Kennewick Police, and the 4Runner was secured at KPD. Officers then applied for and were granted a search warrant for the 4Runner. Investigators later collected a black Ruger EC9s 9MM Semi-Automatic handgun with an obliterated serial number from inside of White’s vehicle. The handgun had an extended magazine that was loaded with several cartridges. The gun was placed into evidence at the Kennewick Police Department.
By June 23, 2022, a Washington State Department of Corrections warrant had been issued for White’s arrest. U.S. Marshals located White driving a black Chevrolet Avalanche in West Richland. When White spotted the U.S. Marshals, he fled into an apartment where he was later taken into custody.
On June 28, 2022, members of the FBI’s Southeast Washington Safe Streets Task Force executed a federal search warrant for the Chevy Avalanche. Inside, investigators located a loaded Springfield .45 caliber pistol between the driver’s seat and center console. The serial numbers on the gun had been obliterated. Body armor and a ballistic helmet were also found inside the vehicle.
White was in Washington State Supervision for a violent offense at the time of the new federal crimes.
“Mr. White was a felon, who on two occasions, just a few weeks apart, fled a vehicle and refused to cooperate with law enforcement. On both occasions, Mr. White had a firearm he was not legally permitted to have. Armed felons present a real danger to our neighborhoods and communities,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I’m thankful to the dedicated efforts of KPD and FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force who focus their crime reduction strategies on holding repeat offenders accountable to make our communities safer and stronger.”
“Our community is safer with Mr. White behind bars.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “He has a long history of violence and knowingly possessed a firearm despite being prohibited from doing so. This case demonstrates how strong partnerships among all levels of law enforcement are working to protect the citizens of Washington state.”
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Southeast Washington Safe Streets Task Force which includes additional officers and detectives from the Kennewick Police Department, Pasco Police Department, Richland Police Department, Border Patrol and Department of Corrections. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stephanie Van Marter and Rebecca Perez.
U.S. Attorney’s Eastern Washington COVID-19 Strike Force Announces Indictment of Trio for COVID Relief Fraud, including Two Tri-Cities ResidentsRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that a federal grand jury has indicted three individuals for fraud in connection with COVID-19 relief funding. The Indictment is the most recent announced by the Eastern Washington COVID-19 Strike Force, which has brought criminal charges against numerous individuals and recovered millions of dollars in fraudulently obtained COVID relief funding.
On March 27, 2020, the President signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act. The CARES Act provided a number of programs through which eligible small businesses could request and obtain relief funding intended to mitigate the economic impacts of the pandemic for small and local businesses. One such program, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), provided government-backed funding to small businesses which could be forgiven so long as the proceeds were used for payroll and other eligible expenses. Another program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, provided low interest loans that could be deferred until the conclusion of the pandemic to provide “bridge” funding for small businesses to maintain their operations during shutdowns and other economic circumstances caused by the pandemic. The PPP and EIDL programs have provided billions of dollars in aid, the vast majority of which have not been paid back, including hundreds of millions of dollars disbursed within Eastern Washington.
The Indictment announced today charges Kelly Jo Driver, of South Carolina, David Kurt Schneider, of Kennewick, Washington, and Leif Gerald Larsen, of Pasco, Washington, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, and false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims. Additionally, David Kurt Schneider is charged with money laundering. The Indictment alleges that the trio fraudulently obtained at least $250,000 in CARES Act funding through the PPP and EIDL programs, and submitted fraudulent applications seeking at least an additional $1,000,000 in CARES Act funding that were ultimately not approved. The indictment alleges that as part of the conspiracy, all three defendants submitted false information to the SBA and participating PPP lenders regarding gross revenues, number of employees, and amount spent on payroll in an attempt to obtain CARES Act funds to which they were not otherwise entitled. The indictment alleges that defendants submitted funding applications in the name of Larsen Firearms, owned by Leif Gerald Larsen, and Solar Mobility LLC, RealNZ Water LLC, and Tempest Tactical Solutions, LLC, all owned by David Kurt Schneider. The Indictment alleges that Kelly Jo Driver created fraudulent payroll and tax forms that were submitted in support of the applications, and that, for her part in the scheme, Kelly Jo Driver received 10% of the funds disbursed by the SBA and participating lenders.
“Many struggling, deserving small businesses requested money from COVID-19 relief programs. Because of the overwhelming need, the programs quickly ran out of money and some businesses were not able to obtain the critical funding they needed,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “We created the Eastern Washington COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force to combat pandemic-related fraud and protect local and small business that provide critical services for our community and support our economy.”
In February 2022, U.S. Attorney Waldref and the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) began working with federal law enforcement agencies to create and launch a COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force that would leverage partnerships between different agencies to aggressively investigate and prosecute fraud against COVID-19 relief programs in Eastern Washington. The Strike Force consists of agency representatives from the USAO, Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Inspector General (OIG), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Department of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs OIG, General Services Administration OIG, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) OIG, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Energy OIG, and others.
The fraud charges carry sentences of up to 30 years in federal prison as well as restitution for fraudulently-obtained funds. This case was investigated by the Eastern District of Washington COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force and by FBI and SBA OIG. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy J. Kelley and Frieda K. Zimmerman.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
4:24-CR-6004-SAB
Richland Drug Trafficker Who Transported Drugs in Sophisticated “Trap Car” Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Angela Madrigal Chavez, was sentenced on February 22, 2024, after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 120 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at sentencing, The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating a substantial drug trafficking organization with ties around the United States. As part of the investigation, and in February of 2022, The DEA used a confidential informant to contact a member of the organization, Ruben Galvan-Trujillo, and arrange for the purchase and delivery of 20 pounds of methamphetamine to Pasco, Washington. Per Galvan Trujillo, this was a test run for establishing a drug distribution line to this Eastern Washington, wherein Galvan-Trujillo’s Drug Trafficking Organization would begin to send regular drug shipments in excess of 50 pounds of methamphetamine, cocaine and other product. Chavez worked as a transporter and drug distributor supplied by this Drug Trafficking Organization. Chavez and another member of this organization transported the 20 pounds from California to Pasco, WA.
The drugs were hidden in a sophisticated trap car. Chavez even had to use tools to open the trap, which contained 20 individual packages, each containing approximately one-pound quantities of crystal methamphetamine. After the arrest of Galvan Trujillo, Chavez was again located in Eastern Washington with that same trap car, which again contained large quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine and deadly fentanyl laced pills.
“Ms. Chavez was engaged in transporting a large quantity of drugs, hidden in a vehicle designed to avoid detection from law enforcement. Even after his co-conspirator was apprehended, Mr. Chavez was undeterred and again used the same method to transport illegal drugs. I grateful for the superb investigative work by our law enforcement partners to stop Ms. Chavez from transporting and distributing illegal narcotics,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “As this case demonstrates, The U.S. Attorney’s Office is dedicated to removing illegal drugs from Eastern Washington communities. Even those who use sophisticated methods to transport large quantities of illegal drugs will be caught and prosecuted.”
“The DEA and our partners work hard every day to stop drug traffickers like Ms. Chavez from preying on our communities,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The sentence Ms. Chavez received in this case should serve as a warning to anyone trying to profit from the misery caused by methamphetamine trafficking.”This case was investigated DEA Tri-Cities which includes DEA, USCBP, and Kennewick PD. The Metro Drug Task Force assisted. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter.
Leader of Tri-cities Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 15 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Etzael Bejar-Cardenas, was sentenced on February 22, 2024, after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute 400 Grams or More of a Mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 180 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to information presented during court proceedings, multiple members Bejar-Cardenas’ family have been involved in drug trafficking in the Tri-Cities and Seattle area for an extended period of time. This group was responsible for trafficking hundreds of thousands of deadly fentanyl pills into those communities.
In March 2022, search warrants were executed in the Tri-Cities area at several locations related to the investigation. A substantial amount (over 1 kilogram) of fentanyl pills, as well as multiple firearms were located in a “stash house” run by this family in Pasco, Washington.
When police knocked and announced their presence at the home where Bejar-Cardenas was staying at the time, a 15-year-old flushed an unknown quantity of fentanyl pills down the toilet. During a search of that the mother’s bedroom, multiple firearms were located in a safe with $30,000 in U.S. Currency, and an AR-15 style rifle was located under the teenager’s bunk bed. There also were a small amount of loose fentanyl pills located on the floor of the residence, where an infant resided along with other members of Bejar-Cardenas’s family.
Of note, Bejar-Cardenas was not located during the execution of the March 2022 search warrants. Instead, agents later learned Bejar-Cardenas had seen the search warrants being executed on a security camera and fled to Mexico. While in Mexico, Bejar-Cardenas continued his drug trafficking activities. He continued to take orders from customers in Eastern Washington and directed others in the United States to deliver the drugs.
Unbeknownst to Bejar-Cardenas, he began communicating with an undercover law enforcement officer, and solicited that individual to help him set up a new ‘stash house’ to store 50,000 fentanyl pills after law enforcement raided the previous one.
When Bejar-Cardenas later returned to the United States, he was arrested. While detained in custody awaiting the disposition of his case, he offered others housed with him the number for his “uncle,” who was the head of the drug trafficking organization, so those individuals would have a source of supply of drugs to sell when they got out of jail.
In fashioning the appropriate sentence, Judge Dimke noted the nature and circumstances of this offense were extremely serious, as Bejar-Cardenas and his family trafficked a substantial amount of fentanyl and were in possession of a substantial number of firearms. Judge Dimke ruled that Bejar-Cardenas’ pattern of behavior showed he was not deterred, despite law enforcement interventions, which gave him an opportunity to change course. Judge Dimke addressed the nature of the offense – noting that it was clear Bejar-Cardenas family was involved in this organization. Based on the totality of the circumstances, Judge Dimke advised she was “thoroughly convinced” a substantial sentence was needed to convince him to stop and hopefully to serve as an example to younger family members to not follow in Bejar-Cardenas’ footsteps.
“Mr. Bejar-Cardenas was a key member of a large drug trafficking organization and directed distribution of a large number of deadly drugs across Eastern Washington,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Mr. Bejar-Cardenas exposed minor children and even an infant to deadly fentanyl and to his drug trafficking activities. After he was taken into custody, Mr. Bejar Cardenas brazenly attempted to distribute illegal narcotics. Fentanyl is the deadliest drug threat facing this country. The Eastern District of Washington is safer and stronger today as a result of the tireless work of our law enforcement partners and federal prosecutors.”
“The fentanyl crisis is the most dangerous drug threat I have seen in my 26 years of Federal drug enforcement,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Fentanyl traffickers like Mr. Bejar-Cardenas act with total disregard for the lives lost or ruined for their profit, but this sentence shows the resolve of the DEA and our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to confront this threat and safeguard our community.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin Baunsgard.
Walla Walla Felon Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Seth Cory Cunha, 38, of Walla Walla, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Methamphetamine. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 84 months imprisonment to be followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information disclosed at sentencing, on the evening of January 10, 2021, Cunha was in a rental vehicle when he was arrested by Walla Walla Police (WWPD) on a felony arrest warrant from the Washington State Department of Corrections. A narcotics K-9 alerted to the presence of the odor of narcotics in the vehicle, and as a result, the vehicle was seized pending a search warrant. Investigators executed the search warrant and observed more than $3,500 in cash in the center console. No drugs were found in the vehicle.
On January 12, A detective with WWPD reviewed several phone calls made by Cunha while he was housed at the Walla Walla County Jail. Cunha made calls to his girlfriend and a roommate. During the phone calls, Cunha discussed the cash, his phones, and a storage unit. The WWPD Detective noted that anytime the storage unit was mentioned, Cunha became uneasy and redirected the conversation. Cunha would also refer to the storage unit in coded language only the person on the call could understand.
Through further investigation, detectives determined the location of the storage unit, and on January 13, Detectives obtained and executed a search warrant for the unit. During the search, detectives located several power tools, a Gatorade bottle that had been made into a smoking device and a small black safe. Inside the safe, detectives located five bags containing a methamphetamine, a loaded Smith & Wesson .45 caliber pistol, a spare magazine with bullets, and cash.
During the prosecution, Mr. Cunha challenged the admissibility of certain evidence against him. Ultimately, our prosecution team successfully established that the evidence was legally obtained through lawful search warrant.
“Mr. Cunha was a felon who trafficked narcotics and had access to firearms. Furthermore, he continued his drug trafficking while in the Walla Walla County jail,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Our office is working tirelessly to hold those who peddle poison in our community criminally accountable. We are working together with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to make Eastern Washington a safer place for everyone”
"Drug traffickers like Mr. Cunha have no regard for the safety of our communities,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “He exacerbated this by trying to continue his illegal actions while in jail. He also had access firearms to ‘protect’ his illegal actions, further endangering citizens. ATF will continue to work with our local, state and federal partners to investigate and take traffickers off the streets.”
“I am extremely proud of the work done by our team here at the Walla Walla Police Department,” said Walla Walla Police Chief Chris Buttice. “We are grateful for the continued partnerships within this valley and region of the state. We will remain committed to taking dangerous drugs and those who provide them off our streets.”
This case was investigated by the ATF, Walla Walla Police Department, and the College Place Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter.
Spokane Man Who Transported Tens of Thousands of Fentanyl Pills and Pound Quantities of Meth Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that David Lee Fullmer, 61, of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 60 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information disclosed at sentencing, in November of 2022, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) opened an investigation into a supplier of methamphetamine and fentanyl laced pills that was operating in the Eastern District of Washington. The investigation ultimately identified this source of supply as David Velasquez. During the investigation, agents reviewed records and linked Velasquez with an address in Phoenix, Arizona. Investigators also learned Velasquez made regular cell phone contact with Fullmer.
In July of 2023, agents learned that Fullmer and Velasquez appeared to have arranged two separate meetings near Brigham City, Utah.
On August 10, 2023, agents learned Fullmer had rented a Dodge Ram van in downtown Spokane. Later that day, Fullmer’s phone location was observed traveling eastbound on I-90 leaving Washington. Also that day, Velasquez’s phone was observed leaving Phoenix and heading north. On August 11, FBI special agents observed Velasquez and Fullmer meet at a location in Blackfoot, Idaho. Agents observed Velasquez get an object from the rear passenger door of his vehicle and walk to the front passenger door of Fullmer’s truck. After speaking briefly, the two drove off in different directions.
On August 12, 2023, Fullmer, driving the rented Dodge Ram, returned to Washington on I-90 and entered the watercraft inspection station in Spokane County. A Washington State Patrol Trooper initiated a vehicle stop and detained Fullmer. Agents executed a search warrant on the Dodge Ram and seized a black backpack from the front passenger seat. Inside the backpack was a stolen 9mm pistol, a box of ammunition, a package filled with approximately 18,000 multi-colored fentanyl pills, and two cell phones that had text messages about drug distribution.
Agents also executed a search warrant at Fullmer’s home in Spokane. Agents seized multiple small plastic baggies containing a total of 1,000 multi-colored fentanyl pills, two small digital scales, a shotgun, a .22 caliber rifle, and ammunition.
Velasquez was arrested in Iowa and is currently facing separate drug trafficking charges.
“Fentanyl poisons our neighbors, harms our friends and family, and attracts violence that plagues our community, Mr. Fullmer furthered the damage of the opioid epidemic by transporting tens of thousands of fentanyl pills into Spokane,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Together with our law enforcement partners, we will ensure that those who engage in drug trafficking are brought to justice to keep our community safe.”.
“Mr. Fullmer was putting countless lives at risk each time he facilitated the distribution of these drugs into our community.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “This sentencing shows the unwavering commitment by the FBI and our law enforcement partners to remove traffickers who conspire to distribute harmful drugs in our communities. We will continue to relentlessly pursue those involved in narcotics trafficking to safeguard Washington’s streets and communities.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Cashman.
Spokane Man Who Repeatedly Failed to Register as a Sex Offender, Sentenced to More Than 2 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Cecil C. Michel, 64, of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 15 months in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Rice also sentenced Michel to an additional 18 months for violating his term of supervised release.
According to court documents, Michel was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact Within Indian Country in 2004. As a result, Michel is federally required to register as a sex offender for 25 years. Michel has since been convicted of failing to register twice before. He also has repeatedly been sanctioned for violations of his supervised release conditions. According to court documents, In August of 2022, Michel left his home in Spokane and did not return. Michel did not register a new address with Spokane or Ferry County or notify Spokane County he was moving. In June of 2023, Investigators with the United States Marshal’s Service arrested Michel at a home in Inchelium, Washington.
“Repeated disregard of the requirement to register as a sex offender puts Eastern Washington communities at risk, said U.S Attorney Waldref. “My office enforces these registration requirements to protect all those who call Eastern Washington home, including those who live in urban and rural communities and on Native American lands.”
“A core mission of the United States Marshals Service is to track down, apprehend and prosecute those who flagrantly disregard registration requirements dictated by the Law,” stated Gavin K. Duffy, Chief Deputy United States Marshal for Eastern Washington. “In this case the U.S. Marshals worked with our local and tribal partner agencies to accomplish this mission and will continue to do so as long as there are offenders who continue to threaten the communities of Eastern Washington.”
This case was investigated by the United States Marshal’s Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Cashman.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Prosecuted 85 Firearm Offenders, while Seizing and Forfeiting 163 Illegal Firearms in 2023Read the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that in 2023, the office she leads prosecuted 85 illegal firearm offenders, resulting in the seizure and forfeiture of 163 illegally owned, possessed, used, or obtained firearms. Firearms that are forfeited are removed from the possession of a convicted criminal defendant and relinquished to the government for disposal, including potentially the return of stolen firearm to rightful owners.
“The 85 firearm offenders my office prosecuted in 2023 had access to illegal firearms and many demonstrated an inclination for violence. These prosecutions are a stark reminder of the nexus of firearms and violent crimes,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Our collaborative law enforcement partnerships at the federal, state, local and tribal level have a significant impact in removing illegal firearms off our streets, reducing violent crime and making our communities safer.”
Since the start of 2023, the 85 defendants were charged with various federal firearm offenses, which included, among other crimes, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Assault with a Deadly Weapon on a Federal Law Enforcement Officer, Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Person Convicted of Domestic Violence, First-Degree Murder, and Attempted Murder of a Federal Officer.
The majority of these firearm and violent crime cases were prosecuted under the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program. PSN is a federal, state, and local law enforcement collaboration to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals responsible for violent crimes in our neighborhoods. The U.S. Attorney’s Office partners with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement to specifically identify the criminals responsible for violent crime in the Eastern District of Washington.
“The FBI works alongside our law enforcement partners to keep our communities and neighborhoods safe.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “The FBI’s goal is to build cases which disrupt and dismantle the capabilities of criminal enterprises, putting the worst offenders behind bars to keep communities safer. The impact of firearms violations highlighted from 2023 represent a step forward in achieving that aim. These results would not be possible with the strong partnerships within the public safety community.”
“The nexus between drug trafficking and firearms illustrates the danger of violence at the hands of members of drug trafficking organizations,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “DEA worked diligently with the United States Attorney’s Office and with our Federal, state, local, and tribal partners to keep our communities safe from drug-fueled violence, as these seizures prove.”
“ATF supports our 2nd Amendment rights to bear arms,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “But when people commit crimes with firearms, or possess illegal firearms, ATF is at the forefront of ensuring these people are investigated and referred for prosecution, making our communities safer and protecting the rights of law-abiding citizens.”
Enforcing federal firearm prohibitions is also a crucial part of combating domestic violence. Domestic violence abusers with access to a gun are five times more likely to kill their partners. In addition to their lethality, firearms are used by abusers to inflict fear, intimidation, and coercive control. Law enforcement responding to active domestic violence scenes are at increased risk when firearms are present. Under federal law, people with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions and those subject to domestic violence protective orders are prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms.
In October 2022, U.S. Attorney Waldref announced her office’s Safe Homes, Safe Community Initiative to prevent domestic violence homicides and prevent abusers who have previously been convicted of domestic violence offenses from having access to firearms. Partnering with the Yakima Police Department, Yakima County Prosecutor’s Office, Spokane Police Department, and Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office, and domestic violence prevention advocates, the U.S. Attorney’s Office focuses enforcement on individuals identified as repeat domestic violence abusers in possession of firearms.
“Everyone deserves to live in a safe home free of domestic violence,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Federal prosecutors witness the devastating impacts of domestic violence on the lives of victims and their families, who may endure long-term trauma and are at increased risk for returning to abusive relationships. Our Safe Homes, Safe Community initiative focuses on victim safety, law enforcement safety and community safety. Here in the Eastern District of Washington, my Office is committed to use all the tools at our disposal—including leveraging our partnerships with local law enforcement and local prosecutors—to ensure victims have a viable path to safety and justice.”
Major firearms-related cases filed or pending in the Eastern District of Washington in 2023 include:
21 Year-Old Moxee Gang Member Sentenced to 12 Years In Federal Prison for Possessing Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Alexis Sanchez-Gomez was gang member who trafficked drugs and possessed firearms. He was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison.
30 Year-Old Yakama Man Sentenced to 10 Years Imprisonment for Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence
James Skahan-Lowe was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Skahan-Lowe pointed a rifle at the victim, then beat him with it.
Richland Man With Extensive Criminal History Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison After Shooting A Person and Conspiring To Distribute Fentanyl-Laced Pills in Tri-Cities
Jonathan Scott Ard was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison on fentanyl and gun charges. Ard has long criminal record which includes a significant history of crimes of violence.
Othello Woman Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm Offense
Alondra Yanez was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for being a Felon in Possession of Firearms. Yanez helped traffic 11 stolen firearms. One of the stolen firearms sold by Yanez was used during the homicide of a four-year-old child in Othello, Washington in February of 2021.
Yakima Man Sentenced to 48 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm Offense
James Duane Deckard was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison for being an Unlawful User of Controlled Substances and Person Convicted of Domestic Violence in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Deckard was involved in a domestic dispute where he pointed a firearm at his intimate partner.
31 Year-Old Yakima Man Sentenced to 7 Years Imprisonment for Being a Felon in Possession of Firearms Stolen From Fish and Wildlife Building
Alexander Scott Stevens was sentenced to seven years in prison for being a Felon in Possession of Firearms. Stevens was linked to the theft of 18 firearms and a suppressor from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Othello Man Sentenced to 168 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm Offenses Related to the Homicide of a Four-Year-Old Child
Felipe Tapia-Perez was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison to being an Unlawful Alien in Possession of a Firearm and Possession of a Stolen Firearm. In February of 2021 Tapia-Perez bought a stolen firearm. A short time later he was involved in a domestic dispute with his partner. During the argument, Tapia-Perez was holding the stolen firearm. The pistol discharged, and the bullet struck his four-year-old child in the head. The child later passed away at the hospital.
Repeat Domestic Abuser Sentenced to 51 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm Offense
Frederick Terrell was sentenced to 51 months in prison for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Terrell texted his intimate partner three videos that showed him shooting a pistol. Terrell was prohibited from possessing firearms due to multiple prior felony convictions. Terrell also has at least seven prior convictions arising from domestic violence assaults.
Long-Time Sureno Gang Member Sentenced to More Than 20 Years in Federal Prison for Shooting an Undercover Law Enforcement Officer
Randy Coy James Holmes, age 25, of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced today to more than 20 years in federal prison for Assault with a Deadly Weapon on a Federal Law Enforcement Officer.
Holmes shot the undercover ATF during the purchase of a firearm.
Spokane Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearms Offenses
Merced Zamora was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams of Actual Methamphetamine, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, as well as for Use, Carry, and Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Offense.
Zamora was driving on a suspended license. Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies recovered two firearms, ammunition, and a half pound of methamphetamine following a search of his vehicle. Zamora was found guilty by a jury of his peers after a multi-day jury trial in Spokane, Washington.
Domestic Abuser Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm Offense
Michael Ross was sentenced to 4 years in prison for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
At the time he was detained, Ross had three convictions for crimes that qualify for federal felonies, including, one count Second Degree Assault (Domestic Violence), First Degree Burglary, and seven counts of Possession of a Stolen Firearm.
Felon Found with Almost a Dozen Firearms, Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison
Zachary Wade Bennett was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm. During a search of home, deputies found 10 guns, including three AR-15 rifles, boxes of ammo, drug paraphernalia, ledgers detailing his drug distribution operations, heroin and hallucinogenic mushrooms.
More information about Project Safe Neighborhoods can be found here.
Pennsylvania Man Pleads Guilty to Bribing a Federal Official and Defrauding the Federal Aviation Administration in Moses Lake, WashingtonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Yesterday, Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Christopher Hamilton Clemens, age 42, currently of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and formerly of Clarkston, Washington, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Defraud the United States in connection with bribing a federal contracting official with the Department of Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs (“BIA”) and fraudulently obtaining a contract with the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) in Moses Lake, Washington.
According to the plea agreement, Calandra Charging Eagle was a contracting official at the BIA, in its Albuquerque, New Mexico office. BIA is a federal agency that, among other things, provides funding and oversight for improvement projects on American Indian land and facilities. One of Defendant Clemens’ companies, Hamilton’s West, was a government contracting company owned and operated by Clemens, which competed and sought to compete for BIA and other federal government contracts.
According to court documents, through her position as a contracting official at BIA, Charging Eagle had access to internal and confidential BIA estimates and other information regarding potential contracts, and had a role in approving contracts, modifications, and invoices. In 2018, between June and October, according to the plea agreement, Clemens and Charging Eagle engaged in a bribery scheme in which Clemens agreed to pay a $10,700 debt owed by Charging Eagle to the Sandia Resort and Casino, a resort, casino, and event center located in Albuquerque. In return, according to court documents, Charging Eagle agreed to use her position to steer BIA contracts, including an over half-million dollar contract to provide lightning protection improvements at the Navajo Nation’s Pine Hill School in New Mexico, to Clemens and his companies. According to court documents, Charging Eagle provided Clemens and his companies with inside confidential information regarding BIA’s procurement process, including, but not limited to, providing Clemens and his companies with confidential and internal BIA information in order to provide Clemens and his companies with an unfair competitive advantage in obtaining the Pine Hill School lightning protection contract and other BIA contracts.
On October 21, 2020, a grand jury returned an indictment charging Clemens and Charging Eagle with Conspiracy to Defraud the United States and felony counts of paying and accepting a bribe, respectively. On December 9, 2021, Charging Eagle pleaded guilty to one count of violating 18 U.S.C. Sec. 201(b)(2), Public Official Accepting a Bribe, as a result of her role in the scheme and conspiracy with Clemens, and on March 17, 2022, Charging Eagle was sentenced to two-years of probation. United States v. Charging Eagle, Case No. 2:20-CR-00142-TOR.
Prior to Charging Eagle pleading guilty to bribery, Clemens entered into a pre-trial diversion agreement with regard to the bribery scheme where he agreed to, and was ordered by the Court to, among other things, not commit any more crimes and to not engage in any federal contracting or subcontracting for a period of five years. According, to court documents, in January 2022, approximately two months after being ordered to not engage in federal contracting, Clemens falsely certified, through a new company, that he was not prohibited from engaging in federal contracting.
Based on Clemens’ false and fraudulent certification, according to the plea agreement, in August of 2022 Clemens went on, through the new company, to fraudulently obtain a design-build contract in Moses Lake, Washington, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). According to Clemens’ plea, between August of 2022 and October of 2023, while Clemens held himself out as the vice president of the new company, the FAA paid $479,818 to the new company under the design-build contract that it would not have paid had it known that Clemens had falsely and fraudulently represented that he was eligible to engage in federal contracting. Clemens admitted in his plea agreement that he conspired with others to perpetrate the fraud on the FAA as part of his overall conspiring to defraud the United States including his earlier bribe to Charging Eagle to get BIA contracts.
“Bribing a federal official is a serious violation that undermines the basic fairness that we all expect and deserve from our government,” said United States Attorney Waldref. “Similarly, ignoring a court order and continuing to fraudulently engage in federal contracting cannot and will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I want to thank our law enforcement partners, especial the Department of Interior, Office of Inspector General, Western Region, for their tremendous and longstanding efforts in rooting out this conspiracy.”
This case was investigated by the Department of Interior, Office of Inspector General Western Region. Assistant United States Attorneys Tyler Tornabene and Dan Fruchter are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for May 29, 2024, at 11:00 am in the Thomas Foley Federal Building and U.S. Court House in Spokane, Washington.
United States v. Christopher Hamilton Clemens, Case No: 2-24-CR-00030-TOR.
United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington Hires Assistant United States Attorney Dedicated to Prosecuting MMIP Cases in the Northwest United StatesRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - United States Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref announced today that Bree R. Black Horse has joined her office as an Assistant United States Attorney dedicated to prosecuting cases involving Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP), in connection with the Justice Department’s MMIP regional program. AUSA Black Horse will work out of our Yakima Office, but she will serve throughout the Northwest Region – including in Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, and California.
AUSA Black Horse is an enrolled member of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma. Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, AUSA Black Horse worked in the Native American practice group at the law firm of Kilpatrick Townsend advising Tribal governments and enterprises on all aspects of federal, state, and tribal law, including tribal sovereignty, economic development, treaty rights, and complex Indian country litigation. AUSA Black Horse previously served as a law clerk to Chief U.S. District Court Judge Brian M. Morris for the District of Montana, and as a legal aid attorney and public defender for the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. AUSA Black Horse was the Program Director for the 2023 Law School Admission Council’s Pre-Law Undergraduate Scholars Program, which aims to make a law degree more accessible for diverse students from Central Washington. She is a 2013 graduate of Seattle University School of Law where she was the Douglas R. Nash Native American Scholar as well as the co-founder and editor-in chief of the American Indian Law Journal. She received her undergraduate degree from Seattle Pacific University in Political Science and Government in 2010.
“Our District is committed to being a leader in addressing the MMIP crisis. I am honored to welcome AUSA Black Horse as the newest member of the Department of Justice,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. AUSA Black Horse will serve as the Assistant United States Attorney dedicated to prosecuting cases involving matters related to MMIP on Native American Reservations. Her appointment demonstrates DOJ’s commitment to combating the root causes of MMIP crisis and holding those who commit these crimes accountable. I am also grateful for the close relationships with have with our Tribal, Federal and State partners as we work together in the joint mission of ensuring justice for all. As we welcome AUSA Black Horse, we reiterate our shared commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all who call Eastern Washington home.”
AUSA Black Horse expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve in this important role. “For far too long Indigenous men, women and children have suffered violence at rates higher than many other demographics,” stated AUSA Black Horse. “As I step into this role, I look forward to working with our local, state, and tribal partners to identify concrete ways of reducing violence and improving public safety in Indian country and elsewhere. I also look forward to honing my skills as a federal prosecutor and working with others who are dedicated to DOJ’s mission to seek justice on behalf of victims and their families.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office plans to hold a formal swearing in for AUSA Black Horse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will provide additional details when the schedule for that event is set.
The MMIP regional program prioritizes MMIP cases consistent with the Deputy Attorney General’s July 2022 directive to United States Attorneys’ offices promoting public safety in Indian country. The program fulfills the Justice Department’s promise to dedicate new personnel to MMIP consistent with Executive Order 14053, Improving Public Safety and Criminal Justice for Native Americans and Addressing the Crisis of Missing or Murdered Indigenous People, and the Department’s Federal Law Enforcement Strategy to Prevent and respond to Violence Against American Indians and Alaska Natives, Including to Address Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons issued in July 2022.
The program dedicates five MMIP Assistant U.S. Attorneys and five MMIP coordinators to provide specialized support to United States Attorneys’ offices to address and combat the issues of MMIP. This support includes assisting in the investigation of unresolved MMIP cases and related crimes, and promoting communication, coordination, and collaboration among federal, Tribal, local, and state law enforcement and non-governmental partners on MMIP issues. The five regions include the Northwest, Southwest, Great Plains, Great Lakes, and Southeast Regions, and MMIP personnel will be located within host United States Attorneys’ offices in the Districts of Alaska, Arizona, Eastern Washington, Minnesota, New Mexico, Northern Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, and Western Michigan. Programmatic support will be provided by the MMIP Regional Outreach Program Coordinator at the Executive Office for United States Attorneys.
More broadly, this MMIP Program will complement the work of the Justice Department’s National Native American Outreach Services Liaison, who is helping amplify the voice of crime victims in Indian country and their families as they navigate the federal criminal justice system. Further, the MMIP Program will liaise with and enhance the work of the Department’s Tribal Liaisons and Indian Country Assistant United States Attorneys throughout Indian Country, the Native American Issues Coordinator, and the National Indian Country Training Initiative Coordinator to ensure a comprehensive response to MMIP.
Selah Drug Distributor Who Sold Pound Quantities of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl in the Yakima Valley Sentenced to More than Eleven Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Ronald Lee Ralston Jr.,36, of Selah, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Methamphetamine. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 138 months imprisonment to be followed by five years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information disclosed at sentencing, the FBI developed information that Ralston and another man, Jessie Lee Johnson, were distributing large amount of methamphetamine and fentanyl from Ralston’s home in Selah, Washington.
FBI Task Force members arranged for a confidential informant to set up a controlled buy at Ralston’s house. On May 4, 2023, the informant arrived at the home and tried to purchase methamphetamine from Ralston. However, Ralston said the methamphetamine he had on hand was spoken for and not for sale. While no sale took place that day, Ralston and Johnson were captured on video discussing future drug sales.
On May 16, the informant returned to Ralston’s home and purchased one pound of methamphetamine and 100 pills of fentanyl from Ralston and Johnson for $2,000. Ralston also told the informant he could get any amount of methamphetamine and fentanyl with 24-hour notice.
A search warrant was executed on June 7, 2023 at Ralston’s residence. In Ralston’s trailer, located on the property, law enforcement seized 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine, other controlled substances, and two firearms. In the main residence, law enforcement officers seized another firearm and an additional half-pound of methamphetamine.
Ralston and Johnston pleaded guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Methamphetamine on November 28, 2023. Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced on March 12, 2024.
“The FBI’s Drug Task Force identified Mr. Ralston and Mr. Johnson as major sources of dangerous drugs in Eastern Washington. I’m grateful for the quick work of Task Force Officers to shut down this drug operation,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “My office is committed to fighting the drug epidemic by aggressively stopping the supply of illegal narcotics in our communities.”
“It is heartbreaking to see how these poisons destroy lives, relationships, and communities in Washington and across the United States," said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “The sentence in this case represents the significance the FBI, our federal, state, and local partners, and prosecutors place on saving lives through the removal of illicit drugs from our communities and holding those accountable who are responsible for their distribution. We are fighting back every time to take drugs off the streets.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Yakima County Sheriff’s Office, Customs and Border Protection and the Selah Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Swenson.
Doctor Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Accept Kickbacks in Connection with Fraudulent Telemarketing Scheme Victimizing Medicare and TRICARE Patients in Eastern WashingtonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Thomas Andrew Webster, M.D., age 51, of Sylvania, Ohio, pled guilty to conspiring to accept kickbacks in connection with a fraudulent telemarketing and medical supply scheme throughout Washington and in other states. District Judge Mary K. Dimke accepted Dr. Webster’s guilty plea and set sentencing for June 26, at 1:15 in Spokane, Washington.
The Medicare program provides health insurance coverage for elderly and disabled Americans. The Department of Defense’s TRICARE program provides health benefits to United States Armed Forces military personnel, military retirees, and their dependents. Medicare and TRICARE provide health insurance coverage for eligible health services, including, under certain conditions, for durable medical equipment (DME). For DME to qualify for reimbursement, the DME is required to be ordered by a physician who is treating the beneficiary for a specific illness or injury, and is required to be part of the course of that treatment.
During the relevant time period, Dr. Webster lived in Olympia, Washington, and was a licensed physician in Washington. According to the Plea Agreement and information disclosed in court proceedings, between May 2021 and September 2023, Dr. Webster participated in a telemarketing scheme and conspiracy. A company identified as “Company A” obtained Medicare and TRICARE beneficiary information by using telemarketers to contact patients in Eastern Washington and elsewhere to obtain their personal and health information. Company A then used the information to create a fake medical record that falsely and fraudulently reflected doctor visits and treatment that did not exist, and fraudulent medical orders for DBE. Dr. Webster then signed the fraudulent medical documentation and DME orders, which were then sold by Company A to companies that used the orders to falsely bill Medicare and TRICARE. Company A and Dr. Webster also falsely and fraudulently billed Medicare and TRICARE for the fictitious doctor visits and exams that did not take place.
“Health care fraud and kickback schemes are a serious problem” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “They divert precious public funds away from treating patients, drive up the cost of health care services, and often make quality health care beyond the reach of the most vulnerable members of our community who need it the most. Telemarketing schemes that target and exploit the elderly and our servicemembers are especially pernicious because they prey on those who are often most in need of a doctor’s independent judgment that is not tainted or biased by the doctor’s own personal financial interest.”
According to the Plea Agreement and information disclosed in court proceedings, Medicare and TRICARE paid more than $13.7 million for DME fraudulently ordered by Dr. Webster for thousands of beneficiaries in Eastern Washington and elsewhere, including beneficiaries who lacked the limb for which Defendant supposedly performed the exam and ordered the DME, because it had been previously amputated. Dr. Webster also admitted to directly receiving at least $839,565 from Medicare and TRICARE for fraudulent doctor visits and exams that never took place. As part of the Plea Agreement, Dr. Webster agreed to forfeiture of bank accounts and other assets representing the proceeds of his criminal conduct.
"Dr. Webster’s conviction culminates his illicit, greed-driven scheme to defraud federal healthcare programs, including the Department of Defense's TRICARE program," said Bryan D. Denny, Special Agent-in-Charge for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Western Field Office. "Fraudulent healthcare billings inflate costs, erode public confidence, and in the case of the Department of Defense, ultimately degrade American warfighter readiness and undermine the missions of our military services.”
“Physicians that receive unlawful kickbacks in exchange for ordering medically unnecessary services erode the public’s trust and waste valuable taxpayer dollars” said Steven J. Ryan, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This outcome demonstrates HHS-OIG’s steadfast commitment to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate those who defraud federal health care programs.”
“I am grateful for, and commend, the exceptional investigative work on this case performed by HHS OIG and DCIS, as well as the important forfeiture work that will return precious funds to the public so that they can be used for patient care” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to make our communities safer and stronger, by aggressively pursuing telemedicine kickback schemes, healthcare fraud, and elder abuse.”
The conspiracy offense carries a maximum sentence of up to five years in federal prison. The case was investigated by HHS OIG’s Seattle Field Office and DCIS’ Western Field Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Dan Fruchter and Tyler H.L. Tornabene are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States; Assistant United States Attorney Brian M. Donovan is handling the forfeiture action.
Case No. 2:23-cr-00135-MKD
Two Men Indicted for Attempting to Sell 25 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - On February 13, 2024 a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Jesus Birrueta-Mendoza and Germain Reyna Saucedo with one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine.
In January of 2024, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) developed information that Birrueta-Mendoza had access to 50 pounds of methamphetamines and was offering to “front” a sample of the product.
On January 11, HSI agents used a confidential informant to meet with Birrueta-Mendoza. At the meeting HSI agents observed Birrueta-Mendoza give the informant 40 grams of methamphetamines. A few days later, the informant arranged to buy 50 pounds of methamphetamines from Birrueta-Mendoza for $60,000.
On January 18, Birrueta-Mendoza arrived at the Bi-Mart in Sunnyside, Washington to meet the informant. Saucedo was riding in the passenger seat of the vehicle. The informant asked where the drugs were and was told the drugs were in the backseat. Birrueta-Mendoza then said the bag contained half of the agreed amount of drugs.
Agents moved in and arrested Birrueta-Mendoza and Saucedo. Agents located a handgun in a holster on Saucedo’s waistband, along with $1,600 in cash.
The next day, agents obtained a search warrant for Birrueta-Mendoza’s vehicle. Agents opened the bag on the back seat of the vehicle, inside were 25 individually wrapped packages of methamphetamines weighing a total of 25.70 pounds in packaging.
“Over 25 pounds of illegal narcotics were taken off the street thanks to this seizure,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Illicit drugs harm our communities. My office, alongside our law enforcement partners, will continue to work tirelessly to protect our neighborhoods from those who distribute this poison.”
This ongoing case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Murphy.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Case: 1:24-CR-2007-SAB
Man Indicted for Decades-long Fraud of Veteran’s Benefits, Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that a federal grand jury has indicted Raymond Kenneth Musgrove, formerly of Grant County, Washington, for fraud in connection with benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
The Indictment announced today charges Musgrove, formerly of Grant County, Washington, with false representation of a social security number, wire fraud, theft of government funds, and aggravated identity theft. The Indictment alleges that Raymond Kenneth Musgrove posed as J.M.C., a real person and military veteran, for several decades, collecting Veterans Affairs Compensation Payments and receiving healthcare at the VA in the name of J.M.C. According to the Indictment, Musgrove has purported to be J.M.C. since at least 1997, in the process collecting over $825,000 in federal funds from the VA to which he was not entitled. According to the Indictment, the VA terminated benefit payments several times after the real J.M.C. passed away in 2018, but each time Musgrove reached out to the VA purporting to be J.M.C. and requested that benefits should continue. The Indictment alleges that due to Musgrove’s misrepresentations, the VA continued to provide Veterans Affairs Compensation Payments in the name of J.M.C.
“Military Veterans have given selfless service to this country. Schemes to steal funds set aside to support them are an insult to their sacrifices,” said United States Attorney Waldref. “My office is committed to working closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure that federal government programs and missions are protected from fraudulent actions and will hold fraudsters accountable when they seek government funds in order to line their own pockets.”
The fraud charges carry sentences of up to 20 years in federal prison as well as restitution for fraudulently obtained funds. This case was investigated by SSA-OIG and VA-OIG. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frieda K. Zimmerman.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Case No: 2:24-CR-00016-SAB
Spokane Man Sentenced to 5 Years Probation for Operating a Ponzi Scheme and Defrauding Investors of More Than $3 MillionRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Ronald Walter Hannes of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Investment Advisor Fraud. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of five years of probation. He also ordered Hannes to sell his assets, including his home valued at more than $700,000, in order to pay restitution to his victims.
According to court documents and information provided at sentencing, Hannes was the owner and operator of Hannes Financial Services, Inc (“HFS”). Through HFS, Hannes provided brokerage services to clients under the authority of Woodbury Financial Services.
In December of 2019, following complaints from one of Hannes’s clients, Woodbury Financial Services terminated Hannes’s employment and brokerage relationship. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) later barred Hannes from acting as a broker or otherwise associating with a broker-dealer firm. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) also opened an investigation into Hannes after receiving information from the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions.
The FBI’s investigation established that Hannes engaged in a scheme to defraud at least 21 investors (“Victims”). The Victims were Hannes’s previous clients, who had established accounts through Woodbury Financial Services. Some of the Victims were Hannes’s friends, while others were referred to Hannes by family and friends. Hannes persuaded the Victims to invest in separate “high rate, tax free” bond investments. Hannes also convinced the Victims to write checks to HFS, or directly to third party companies at Hannes’s request, to invest in the bonds. Hannes also encouraged clients to “roll-over” their investments once their bonds purportedly matured. The investigation, however, revealed there were no bonds or securities attached to these investments. When a Victim demanded the return of their funds or chose not to “re-invest,” Hannes would provide a pay out to those individuals.
As part of the scheme, Hannes falsely claimed to his victims that he pre-purchased the bonds and that the victims’ money was being used to reimburse Hannes for bonds he had purchased in advance on their behalf. Hannes also provided his victims with fictitious account documents falsely indicating the amount of money the investors would make at maturity if they re-invested or requested a full redemption. Again, however, there were not actual bonds or securities connected with these investments.
Ultimately, investigators determined Hannes was operating several investment accounts where he received payment to invest in bonds that did not actually exist. An audit showed that between April of 2012 and March of 2020, approximately 288 checks were written from investors to HFS or entities associated with Hannes. In total, Hannes’s fraudulent scheme resulted in victims losing more than three-million dollars.
“Mr. Hannes’s clients trusted him with their hard-earned money and expected him to safeguard it. Instead, Mr. Hannes pulled them into a fraudulent scheme to enrich himself and leave his investors with nothing,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Today I heard directly from the investors who Mr. Hannes swindled, and my resolve is further strengthened to protect the hard-working people of our community from investment schemes and hold fraudsters accountable.”
“This $3 million loss tragically represents investors’ careful savings, financial freedom, and hopes for the future,” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle Field Office. “Not only did Mr. Hannes fail to provide honest investment services, but he also defrauded people he knew by taking advantage of previous business clients, friendships, and referrals for his own gain. Every one of the hundreds of checks he deposited into his own accounts was a betrayal of his responsibilities and relationships.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Cashman.
Spangle, Washington Man Indicted by Grand Jury for Multi-Million Dollar Car Import Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – On February 21,2024, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Christopher Lee Terry Sr., age 39, of Spangle, Washington, and his business, Allwest Financial LLC, with fourteen counts of fraud in connection with running a car import fraud scheme that defrauded multiple victims, including an auto finance company and a Canadian auto dealer, out of more than $5 Million between January 2019 and June 2020.
The Indictment alleges that Terry, through his auto wholesaling business, Allwest Financial LLC d/b/a Allwest Auto Remarketing (“Allwest”), defrauded auto financier NextGear Capital Inc. (“NextGear”), and Canadian auto retailer Birchwood Automotive Group Partnership (“Birchwood”), among others, by falsely and fraudulently claiming ownership of hundreds of vehicles that had been imported from Canada and which Allwest was supposedly refurbishing for potential re-sale.
The Indictment alleges that in order to qualify the imported vehicles as collateral for millions of dollars in advance loans from NextGear, Terry and his company used fraudulent documents purporting to show that the imported vehicles were owned, or were in the process of being purchased, by Allwest, when in fact they were not. The Indictment alleges that NextGear relied on Terry’s false and fraudulent representations, believed that Allwest owned the vehicles, that the loans were secured by the vehicles, and that the loans would be paid back once the vehicles were re-sold. However, as alleged in the Indictment, because Allwest did not in fact own the vehicles, any proceeds from any re-sale of the vehicles were owed to the true owner, such as Birchwood, leaving NextGear with outstanding, unsecured, and uncollectible loans to the tune of millions of dollars. In addition, the Indictment alleges that it was part of Terry’s fraud scheme for Terry and Allwest to at times pocket both the fraudulently obtained NextGear financing and the resale proceeds of the vehicle - thereby profiting twice from a vehicle Allwest did not own.
The Indictment alleges that when Terry’s fraud scheme was discovered NextGear, Birchwood, and others sustained losses of more than $5 million due to the scheme.
“Sophisticated business fraud schemes victimize both businesses and consumers and obstruct the ability of honest companies to transact business in an efficient and fair way,” said United States Attorney Waldref. “Regardless of the nature of the fraud, or what type of business, industry, or consumer it impacts and victimizes, we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to hold fraudsters accountable when they prey on innocent members of the community in order to line their own pockets.”
The fraud charges carry maximum sentences of up to 30 years in federal prison. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Spokane Resident Agency. Assistant United States Attorneys Tyler Tornabene and Dan Fruchter are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
United States v. Christopher Lee Terry Sr. and Allwest Financial LLC, Case No: 2-24-CR-27-TOR-2
California Man Sentenced to More than 11 Years in Prison on Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Ruben Galvan-Trujillo, was sentenced on February 7, 2024, after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 136 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information disclosed at sentencing, the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) developed information that Galvan-Trujillo was a member of a substantial drug trafficking organization with ties to Chicago, Atlanta, Boston, New York, Michigan, and Washington. Galvan Trujillo would coordinate large drug shipments and cultivate new drug shipment lines for the DTO. Galvan-Trujillo had a base of operations in Los Angeles and lived in in Rancho Cucamonga, California.
The DEA used a confidential informant to contact Galvan-Trujillo and arrange a drug sale. In February of 2022, Galvan-Trujillo offered to sell 20 pounds of methamphetamine to the informant and arrange for delivery to Pasco, Washington. Per Galvan Trujillo, this was meant to be a test run to establish a drug distribution line to this District wherein his Drug Trafficking Organization would begin to send regular drug shipments in excess of 50 pounds of methamphetamine, cocaine and other product.
A few days later, Galvan-Trujillo called the informant and said the couriers were on the way and told the informant to pay the couriers $10,000 for the drugs and $80,000 for the product. Later than evening, the couriers delivered the drugs to the informant at a storage facility in Pasco, Washington. The drugs were hidden in a sophisticated trap car, wrapped in 20 individual packages, each containing approximately one-pound quantities of crystal methamphetamine.
“Mr. Galvan-Trujillo was a large-scale drug trafficker who was responsible for pushing massive quantities of illegal narcotics not just into Eastern Washington – but across all the United States,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “My office will continue to prioritize protecting our communities by aggressively prosecuting drug traffickers who attempt to profit off this poison.”
“Mr. Galvan-Trujillo led a wholesale methamphetamine distribution ring that sought to harm both our community in Eastern Washington as well as cities around the country,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “I am proud that the Drug Enforcement Administration and our partners could stop the flow of dangerous drugs through this defendant and the sentence in this case reflects the serious threat that Mr. Galvan-Trujillo posed to all of us.”
This case was investigated DEA Tri-Cities which includes DEA, USCBP, and Kennewick PD. The Metro Drug Task Force assisted. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter.
Man Indicted for Impersonating a U.S. Marshal and Fraudulently Obtaining $39,000Read the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - On February 7,2024, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Charmmorro Vijay Strothers with one count of Wire Fraud and one count of False Personation of an Officer or Employee of the United States.
The indictment alleged that on August 13, 2023, Strothers rented a car at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and drove to Yakima, Washington. Two days later, on August 15, Strothers’ co-schemer called the victim, told her she was speaking with law enforcement, and that she had an active warrant for her arrest. The co-schemer then told the victim that to avoid arrest, she needed to drive to Egley’s Bail Bonds in Yakima and pay a bond of $14,000. The co-schemer remained on the phone with the victim, while she withdrew $14,000 from her bank account and traveled to a parking lot across from Egley’s Bail Bonds.
When the victim arrived, Strothers allegedly approached, collected the cash, and gave the victim a handwritten receipt indicating it was from Egley’s Bail Bonds and listing a fraudulent case number.
A short time later, the co-schemer called the victim a second time and told her a felony warrant was issued for her arrest. Again, the victim was told, to avoid arrest, she needed to drive to the parking lot near Egley’s Bail Bonds and pay a bond of $25,000. When the victim again arrived, Strothers collected the additional $25,000 payment. Strothers falsely told the victim he could not provide identification information, such as a badge number, because he was United States Marshal.
“Impersonating a law enforcement officer and using the threat of arrest to commit fraud is an affront to our justice system and the men and women in law enforcement who work to keep our communities safe,” said United States Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref. “My office is committed to stopping all fraudsters, no matter the shape or scope of their schemes.”
This case is being investigated by the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Pratten is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Case: 1:24-cr-02006-SAB
Spokane Man Sentenced to 15 Years on Drug and Firearm Charges Following Guilty Verdict at TrialRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - U.S. Senior District Judge Rosanna Malouf Peterson sentenced Johnathan Leslie Allen, also known as “Ghost,” to a total of 180 months in federal prison on one count of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, one count of Distribution of Methamphetamine, and two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Allen was convicted of those crimes on November 17, 2023, following a multi-day jury trial. Senior Judge Peterson also sentenced to Allen to 5 years of federal supervision after he is released from prison.
According to court documents and information disclosed at trial and sentencing, in October of 2022, Allen sent several text and Facebook messages to two coconspirators to obtain several ounces of methamphetamine for Allen to sell.
Allen and one of his coconspirators obtained the drugs and then went to a Wal-Mart in Spokane Valley, where the coconspirator sold the drugs to an Undercover Agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”).
The very next day, Allen brought a Ruger 9mm firearm to the Spokane Transit Authority bus plaza in downtown Spokane. Allen gave it to the same coconspirator to sell to the Undercover Agent, which the coconspirator did.
Allen and his coconspirators were indicted in January 2023 and a warrant was issued for Allen’s arrest. Allen was arrested on February 7, 2023, on the gaming floor of the Northern Quest Casino. At the time Allen was placed in custody, he was carrying a loaded, chambered 9mm firearm in the pocket of his sweatshirt. His coconspirators have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
Allen proceeded to trial. After four days of trial testimony, the jury returned guilty verdicts on all counts. At Allen’s sentencing hearing, the United States introduced evidence from Allen’s own Facebook account that showed Allen had been involved in distributing illegal narcotics and illegally possessing guns in the Spokane area separate from his charged conduct in this case.
“I am grateful for the dedication of the investigators, agents, and prosecutors, who brought Mr. Allen to justice. As a result of such dedication, a dangerous offender, two illegal firearms, and illegal narcotics have been removed from the Spokane community,” stated Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. “Today’s sentence further reflects the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s commitment to vigorously prosecuting those who distribute illegal drugs and firearms in Eastern Washington.”
“Drugs and guns are a losing combination,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “Mr. Allen’s willingness to sell drugs and illegally possess firearms earned him this well-deserved sentence. ATF will vigorously investigate those who are conducting dangerous actions such as these in our communities.”
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Herzog.
Man Indicted on Federal Charges for Aiming a Laser Pointer at Spokane County Sheriff’s Helicopter and Life Flight HelicopterRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that a federal grand jury has indicted Johnny R. Blackstock on 2 federal felonies in connection to Aiming a Laser Pointer at an Aircraft.
On October 13, 2023, Blackstock shined a laser at a Life Flight helicopter that was transporting a patient in the Spokane area. A short time later, Blackstock shined a laser at the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Air One helicopter that was on routine patrol in the area.
“Pointing a laser at an aircraft can have life-threatening consequences. Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies protecting the community and first responders life-flighting a patient for medical help face extreme danger from actions like this,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am grateful for our law enforcement partners and first responders who put themselves at risk to protect and serve our community.”
This case is being investigated by the United States Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Cashman.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former Wenatchee Man Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Fraud Involving More than $117,000 in Pandemic Relief FundingRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Jason Carnell O’Daffer, formerly of Wenatchee, Washington, pled guilty to fraudulently obtaining more than $117,000 in COVID relief funding. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice accepted O’Daffer’s guilty plea, and set sentencing for May 8, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., in Spokane.
On March 27, 2020, the President signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The CARES Act provided a number of programs through which eligible small businesses could request and obtain relief funding intended to mitigate the economic impacts of the pandemic for small and local businesses. One such program, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), provided forgivable loans to eligible small businesses to retain jobs and maintain payroll during the pandemic. Another program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, provided low-interest bridge funding for small businesses placed at risk during the pandemic.
In February 2022, U.S. Attorney Waldref and the U.S. Attorney’s Office began working with federal law enforcement agencies to create and launch a COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force that would leverage partnerships between different agencies to aggressively investigate and prosecute fraud against COVID-19 relief programs in Eastern Washington. The Strike Force consists of agency representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Inspector General (OIG), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Department of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs OIG, General Services Administration OIG, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Energy OIG, Department of Homeland Security OIG, and others. Cases investigated and prosecuted by the Strike Force have resulted in numerous indictments, criminal prosecutions, convictions, and civil penalties.
In the plea agreement accepted by the court, and in information disclosed during court proceedings, O’Daffer admitted to fraudulently obtaining $117,400 in EIDL funding for his purported home appraisal business, Chelan Douglas Appraisal Services. When O’Daffer submitted his EIDL application, he was not licensed as an appraiser, and his business was no longer engaging in home appraisals. Rather, O’Daffer spent the loan proceeds on non-business expenses including more than $39,000 for the purchase of a personal RV.
“We created the Eastern Washington COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force because combatting pandemic-related fraud and holding those accountable who abused these programs is critical to protecting our small and local businesses, and the critical jobs and services that these businesses provide for the community,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I commend the superb investigative work performed on these cases by the Strike Force and especially in this case by SBA OIG and the Secret Service. My office’s White Collar team will continue to vigorously prosecute those who abuse and misuse COVID-19 funding.”
“This investigation serves as a reminder to those who would prey on government programs, meant to help individuals in need, that they will be identified and held accountable,” said Greg Ligouri, Resident Agent in Charge of the Secret Service’s Spokane Office. “The Secret Service sincerely appreciates the U.S. Attorney’s Office, SBA and its other federal and local law enforcement partners for the collaborative effort in investigating and prosecuting these types of financial crimes.”
This case was investigated by the Eastern District of Washington COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force, the U.S. Secret Service, Spokane Resident Office and San Francisco Field Office, and the SBA OIG. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy Kelly, and Assistant United States Attorney Tyler H.L. Tornabene are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
A video statement from U.S. Attorney Waldref, about the Eastern Washington COVID-19 Strike Force, can be viewed here.
United States Attorney’s Eastern Washington COVID-19 Strike Force Announces Additional Indictments, ArrestsRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that a federal grand jury has returned two additional indictments in connection with fraudulent COVID-19 relief funding. The indictments are the most recent charges announced by the Eastern Washington COVID-19 Strike Force, which has brought criminal charges against dozens of individuals and companies and recovered millions of dollars in fraudulently obtained COVID relief funding.
On March 27, 2020, the President signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The CARES Act provided a number of programs through which eligible small businesses could request and obtain relief funding intended to mitigate the economic impacts of the pandemic for small and local businesses. One program, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) program, offered forgivable loans to eligible small businesses in order to retain or rehire employees who lost their jobs, or were in danger of doing so, due to the pandemic. Another program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, provided low interest loans that could be deferred until the conclusion of the pandemic to provide “bridge” funding for small businesses to maintain their operations during shutdowns and other economic circumstances caused by the pandemic. The PPP and EIDL programs have provided billions of dollars in aid, the vast majority of which have not been paid back, including hundreds of millions of dollars disbursed within Eastern Washington.
The Indictments announced today charge two Spokane-area individuals in two separate cases. The Indictment in United States v. Crawford charges Antonio Feliciano Crawford, age 54, of Mead, Washington, with 30 counts of wire fraud, bank fraud, and false claims arising from PPP and EIDL applications submitted during 2020 and 2021 on behalf of four companies purportedly owned and operated by Crawford: Tann LLC, Crawford Entertainment, A&M Personal Training LLC, and a sole proprietorship doing business as “Antonio Crawford.” The Indictment alleges that Crawford submitted false and fraudulent information and documentation, including fraudulent and fictitious purported tax returns for the companies, in order to obtain at least $186,971 in PPP and EIDL funding for which he was not eligible.
In United States v. Oberg, the Indictment alleges that Cheryl Lynn Oberg, age 59, of Spokane, Washington, knowingly participated in a fraud scheme and conspiracy in which Oberg obtained $150,000 in EIDL funding based on a fraudulent application submitted in the name of a periodontal business in Mississippi with which Oberg had no involvement. The Indictment alleges that, while the Mississippi-based business did exist, the application was fraudulent, was submitted without the knowledge of the business, and the EIDL funds went to Oberg, who distributed some of the funds to co-conspirators, and used the remainder to fully pay off an outstanding loan on her personal vehicle. The Indictment further alleges that Oberg lied to FBI investigators when questioned about the scheme.
“COVID-19 relief programs were designed to provide a lifeline to struggling businesses during the pandemic. Due to the number of people and businesses that requested funding, some deserving businesses were not able to obtain funding to keep their business in operation. We created the Eastern Washington COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force to hold those accountable who abused these critical programs,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “My Office will continue to lead the effort to prosecute those who stole money intended for those in legitimate need.”
In February 2022, U.S. Attorney Waldref and the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) began working with federal law enforcement agencies to create and launch a COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force that would leverage partnerships between different agencies to aggressively investigate and prosecute fraud against COVID-19 relief programs in Eastern Washington. The Strike Force consists of agency representatives from the USAO, Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Inspector General (OIG), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Department of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs OIG, General Services Administration OIG, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) OIG, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Energy OIG, and others.
The charges against Crawford carry a maximum of up to 30 years in federal prison, while the charges against Oberg carry a 20-year maximum.
United States v. Crawford was investigated by the Eastern District of Washington COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force and by TIGTA, HSI Spokane Field Office, SBA OIG, and the Department of Homeland Security OIG, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Dan Fruchter and Tyler H.L. Tornabene.
United States v. Oberg was investigated by the COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force and by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Spokane Resident Agency, with analytical support and assistance from SBA OIG, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy J. Kelley and Devin Curda.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
United States v. Crawford: 2:24-CR-00010-TOR
United States v. Oberg: 2:24-CR-00009-TOR
California Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Transnational Drug Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
Richland, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Michael Lopez Ferrel, age 30, of Salinas, California, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Possession with the Intent to Distribute 50 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 108 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information disclosed at sentencing, In February of 2022, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) learned Ferrel was supplying a large quantity of drugs to distributors in Eastern Washington. A confidential informant was used to set up a meeting to buy as much as 20 pounds of crystal methamphetamine and 500 fentanyl laced pills.
In March of 2022, a call was recorded between the Ferrel and the informant. During the call, Ferrel claimed he had been traveling from Mexico to Yakima every week with between 180 and 220 pounds of methamphetamine. Later that day, Ferrel and the informant met in person. Ferrel offered to provide the informant with 20 pounds of methamphetamine as well as pills that contained deadly amounts of fentanyl. Ferrel also said he had direct access to a source of drugs in Mexico and people in Mexicali and Tijuana to help move it.
On March 10, 2022, Ferrel called the confidential informant and made arrangements to sell the informant 10 pounds of methamphetamine. Surveillance units set up at Ferrel’s residence and the location where he was to meet the informant. Agents followed Ferrel as he traveled from his residence to another location that was being used as a drug stash house. Agents then observed Ferrel put drugs into the trunk of the vehicle. Agents continued to follow Ferrel as he traveled to meet the informant.
When Ferrel arrived, he pulled up alongside the informant’s vehicle and retrieved the drugs from the truck. He then got into the informant’s vehicle and gave the informant 10 pounds of methamphetamine. The drugs were packaged in 10 pre-packed zip-lock bags, each containing 1 pound of meth.
The next day, Ferrel made arrangements to meet the informant in Prosser, Washington, to collect payment for the drugs. When Ferrel arrived at the location, he was taken into custody by investigators.
Later that day, agents executed a search warrant at the residence being used as a stash house for Ferrel’s organization. Agents located more than 10 pounds of methamphetamine, a digital scale, a loaded Colt .45 pistol and $32,000 in US currency.
“Mr. Ferrel was part of a transnational drug trafficking scheme and was responsible for transporting massive amounts of illegal narcotics into the Eastern Washington and distributing those drugs into our communities,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I commend law enforcement for identifying Mr. Ferrel’s drug trafficking activities and preventing him from further distributing this poison in our neighborhoods. As a result of these efforts, Eastern Washington is safer and stronger.”
“The Drug Enforcement Administration and our Federal, state, tribal, and local partners, strive to keep us all safe from those who would prey on our communities,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “This sentence against a methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficker proves our resolve to stop traffickers like Mr. Ferrel wherever they operate.”
This case was investigated by DEA Tri-Cities, assisted by the Tri-Cities Metro Drug Task Force, Tri-Cities FBI, United States Border Patrol, and Tri-Cities Regional SWAT. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter.
Yakima Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Christopher Lee Osborn, age 32, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Distribution of Child Pornography. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of ninety-six months imprisonment to be followed by fifteen years of supervised release and lifetime registration as a sex offender.
According to court documents and information disclosed at sentencing, in April of 2021, Osborn used the KIK app to send images and videos of child pornography to an undercover agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The images included young children being sexually assaulted.
On April 16, 2021, HSI executed a search warrant at a home in Yakima where Osborn lived and seized several electronic devices. During the search, agents recovered 48 images or videos of child pornography, including the images sent to the HSI agent. Osborn had previously been arrested on September 18, 2020, and charged in Yakima County Superior Court with First Degree Possession of Depictions of Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct under Washington State law based upon a separate investigation. He pleaded guilty to two counts of that charge in January 2024, and has been sentenced to a ninety-six-month sentence which will run concurrently with his sentence in this Federal case.
“Prosecutors, law enforcement, educators, parents, and community stakeholders must be vigilant in protecting the most innocent among us,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Our law enforcement team will continue to tirelessly pursue those who use technology to harm young children. By prosecuting these cases, we protect children and vulnerable populations, thereby strengthening Eastern Washington families and communities.”
“Thanks to the unwavering collaboration with our law enforcement partners, including the invaluable assistance of the Yakima Police Department, HSI agents have successfully apprehended and put a stop to the distribution of child exploitation images,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “This sentence is as much as a service to the victims as it is a promise to the community to protect children wherever threats may be hiding.”
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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Yakima Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Michael Murphy, Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Washington Gun Offender Sentenced to 70 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Reily William Arambul, age 28, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm. United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke imposed a sentence of 70 months imprisonment to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information disclosed at sentencing, on May 9, 2023, Armbul met a man at a friend’s house, who he asked for a ride to an apartment complex near West 5th Avenue in Spokane. When they arrived, Arambul walked up to the apartment complex. The driver waited in the vehicle. While outside the vehicle, Arambul engaged in a verbal confrontation with individuals at the apartment complex. During this verbal confrontation, a residence of the complex call 911 to report disturbance and that an individual, later identified as Arambul, was in possession of a weapon.
As officers with the Spokane Police Department arrived to Arambul’s location, they observed Arambul run back to the truck in which he arrived, and enter the passenger seat. SPD officers ordered the men in the truck to show their hands. The driver put his hands in the air, but Arambul refused. Instead, Arambul attempted to flee law enforcement, reached over from the passenger seat, put the truck in reverse, pressed the gas and began to steer the truck westbound on 5th Avenue. After a short distance, however, the driver managed to press the brakes and stop the truck. SPD then boxed the truck in.
After the truck was boxed in, Arambul got out and began running from officers. He was arrested a short distance away. Officers searched Arambul and found two knives, a black leather holster, a bag of syringes, and a small red bag with approximately 60 fentanyl pills inside. Officers also found a black and silver semi-automatic pistol belonging to the defendant lying the grass nearby.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Dimke noted Arambul’s choice to pull out a firearm put many people, including law enforcement and members of the community, at risk.
“Mr. Arambul put the community in danger by recklessly taking control of a vehicle in an attempt to escape from the police – all while armed with an illegal firearm. Thankfully, he did not get far, and no one was hurt,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am grateful to the brave men and women in law enforcement who place their safety at risk every day to protect our community.”
“As a convicted felon, Mr. Arambul knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “Not only did he possess a gun, he continued to disregard the law and engaged in other criminal activity including possessing dangerous weapons and illegal drugs while fleeing from law enforcement. Fortunately, no one was injured due to the swift actions taken by the Spokane Police. The FBI relies on partnerships like these as we work to protect the citizens of Washington state.”
“Today’s sentencing serves as a reminder that a convicted felon who illegally possesses a firearm will be held accountable. Mr. Arambul showed no regard for community members or police officers during this incident which highlights the dangers our officers increasingly face when those involved in criminal activity are armed and refuse to comply with police when contacted,” stated Interim Spokane Police Chief Justin Lundgren. “The Spokane Police Department appreciates the collaboration with our federal partners that helps keep the Spokane community safe and armed felons out of our neighborhoods. “
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Spokane Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Cashman.
Doctor Agrees to Pay $95,000 to Settle Allegations of Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
Spokane, WA – Physician Daniel Case has agreed to pay $95,000 to resolve allegations that he participated in a kick-back scheme and ordered medically unnecessary durable medical equipment that Case caused to be billed to Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal health care programs, announced Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Between October 2018 and April 2019, Case worked with RediDoc LLC (Redidoc). RediDoc employed telemarketing companies to call federal health care program beneficiaries, including Medicare beneficiaries, and speak with them about obtaining durable medical equipment at no cost. Portions of these calls were recorded and provided to physicians, like Dr. Case, along with pre-filled prescriptions for durable medical equipment. The physicians would review the recordings and sign orders for durable medical equipment, which were then billed to federal health care programs, including Medicare. The physicians, including Dr. Case, were paid for each order they signed prescribing durable medical equipment.
The owners of RediDoc were charged with various federal offenses in September 2020, including conspiracy to violate the federal anti-kickback statute, based upon the fact that the payments to physicians were remuneration intended to induce the physician to sign durable medical equipment orders, including orders that were not medically necessary. The owners of RediDoc both pled guilty to this conspiracy, admitting that RediDoc provided kickbacks to physicians, such as Dr. Case, to induce them to sign durable medical equipment orders.
While employed with RediDoc, Dr. Case expressed in a November 14, 2018, email his “concern” regarding the “legitimacy of what I am doing.” Nevertheless Dr. Case continued to work with RediDoc and signed durable medical equipment orders for patients until April 2019. During his time working with RediDoc, Dr. Case signed numerous orders that were not medically necessary. For example, Dr. Case signed an order on January 18, 2019, prescribing right and left knee braces to a woman who had and above-the-knee amputation of her right leg. As another example, Dr. Case signed three durable medical equipment orders on January 9, 2019, for a patient who had died on January 7, 2019. While working with RediDoc, Case signed orders that resulted in Medicare payments of $3,358,221.57. During the same time, RediDoc paid Case approximately $66,727.00 for orders he signed.
“Kickback schemes incentivize physicians to place financial gain over patient care,” said United States Attorney Waldref. “RediDoc relied upon the willing participation of doctors around the country to sign orders prescribing equipment or medication for payment. These schemes compromise the medical decision making of physicians, resulting in the payment of public money for services that are not medically necessary for the patients, such as the braces Dr. Case ordered for patients here. This settlement is a signal to physicians that they will be held accountable for engaging in kickback schemes, and that they stand to lose more in the long run than will be gained in the short term by participating in an unlawful practice.”
“Doctors that participate in telemedicine kickback schemes for personal financial gain corrupt the provider-patient relationship and undermine the integrity of taxpayer-funded health care programs” said Special Agent in Charge Steven J. Ryan with the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This settlement demonstrates HHS-OIG’s ongoing commitment to protecting federal health care programs and ensuring that providers focus on providing medically necessary care."
The settlement can be found at the link below.
Case SettlementThe settlement was the result of a investigation conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Seattle Field Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy Kelley of the Eastern District of Washington handled this matter on behalf of the United States.