Western District of Washington
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Tulalip Tribal Member Indicted for Second Degree Murder in Death of ToddlerRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Seattle today indicted CHRISTINA D. CARLSON, 37, an enrolled member of the Tulalip Tribes with second degree murder and two counts of criminal mistreatment related to the October, 2012 death of her young daughter and the neglect of her second daughter, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. CARLSON will be arraigned on the indictment on May 23, 2013 in U.S. District Court in Seattle.
CARLSON has been in federal custody at the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac, Washington, since January 11, 2013. CARLSON was originally charged by a criminal complaint which is the sworn statement of the investigating agent. To proceed to trial a defendant must be indicted by a grand jury. That indictment, listing the three charges, was returned today. The criminal complaint described how on October 8, 2012, emergency crews were called to an address on Marine Drive NE on the Tulalip Tribal Reservation where CARLSON was performing CPR on her 19-month-old daughter who was unresponsive on a blanket on the ground. The child was unconscious, not breathing and covered in urine and feces. A second child, a 33-month old girl, was found strapped in her car seat in a nearby vehicle. The child was pale, unresponsive and covered in urine and feces. The girl was transported to the hospital and later recovered. The 19-month old child died and the Snohomish County Medical examiner classified the manner of death as homicide by parental neglect. According to the report the child was malnourished and dehydrated, weighing only 19 pounds. The child’s skin in the diaper area was excoriated and infested with maggots. Her hair was infested with lice.
The investigation revealed that CARLSON had been living in the car with the girls on the property since mid-September. On October 8, 2012 CARLSON had left the girls in the car while she went to use a phone at the residence on the property. CARLSON was away from the car for more than an hour by some estimates. About 20 minutes after the neighbors told her to go back to the car and her children, CARLSON returned asking them to call 9-1-1 because the youngest child was unresponsive.
Second Degree Murder is punishable by up to life in prison, with a mandatory minimum 30 years in prison for the death of a child. Criminal mistreatment is punishable by up to ten years in prison. The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Tulalip Tribal Police and the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Tate London.
Sekiu Resident Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
A resident of Sekiu, Washington, who had been banned from Makah Tribal lands, was sentenced last week to 12 years in prison for Possession of Oxycodone with Intent to Distribute, and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. JAMES G. RODE, 47, was arrested March 2, 2012 following a court authorized search of his residence. Law enforcement found forty 15mg oxycodone pills hidden in a heating vent in the bathroom. Nearby, they found three firearms. RODE pleaded guilty in November 2012, admitting that the firearms were used to further his drug trafficking activity. On Friday May 10, 2013, U.S. District Judge Ronald B. Leighton ordered RODE to serve five years of supervised release following his prison term.
According to records in the case, members of the Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team were investigating RODE’s drug dealing. In February 2012 someone working with law enforcement bought oxycodone from RODE on multiple occasions. RODE had previously been banned from Makah Tribal lands because of criminal activity including burglary and sexual assault. RODE is a registered sex offender.
In asking for the 12 year sentence prosecutors noted the damage RODE did to the community. RODE “caused substantial harm to those living on the Makah Indian reservation where he distributed large quantities of Oxycodone pills. He also has a rather violent and prolific criminal history, which includes home invasion burglaries, as well as a prior conviction for unlawful possession of a firearm,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo.
The case was investigated by Neah Bay Tribal Police, Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team, and agents from the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF).
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Tate London.
Canadian Trucker Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A Canadian truck driver who was identified as a drug smuggler for a criminal group related to the Hells Angels was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 12 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute marijuana, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. JAMES POSTLETHWAITE, 60, of North Vancouver, BC, Canada was convicted following a three day trial in November 2012. POSTELTHWAITE was a transporter in a criminal organization that was smuggling marijuana south into the U.S. and cocaine north into Canada. At sentencing U.S. District Judge John C. Coughenour said POSTLETHWAITE “understood the size and scope of the conspiracy,” and was responsible for smuggling vast quantities of marijuana into the United States, as well as smuggling cocaine into Canada. “Cocaine has had a devastating impact on the streets of Vancouver,” and defendant’s actions contributed directly to that problem, Judge Coughenour said.
The investigation into this international drug trafficking ring began in May 2010. Using court authorized wire taps, investigators with DEA and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) determined the drug ring was transporting and distributing 1,000 to 2,000 pounds of marijuana and 100 to 200 kilos of cocaine every month. The marijuana was smuggled into the U.S. from Canada and distributed across the country to California, Illinois, Missouri, Georgia and New Jersey, among other locations. Proceeds from the marijuana distribution were used to purchase cocaine in Southern California. The cocaine was transported to British Columbia for distribution.
After identifying the Seattle area warehouse that served as the hub for the marijuana distribution, investigators were able to identify POSTLETHWAITE’s semi-truck that delivered to the warehouse. After search warrants were served on the warehouse in April 2011, agents learned more about a hidden compartment in POSTLETHWAITE’s semi that allowed him to transport as many as 95 loads of drugs across the border. Each load was hundreds of pounds of BC Bud – the hidden compartment could hold more than 600 pounds. POSTLETHWAITE was indicted for his role in the conspiracy and was arrested March 9, 2012 as he tried to drive a different truck into the U.S. from Canada at the Eastport, Idaho, Port of Entry. The truck with the hidden compartment was later located trying to enter the U.S. with a different driver. The hidden compartment had a very elaborate access system using a separate battery to access a void in the floor of the trailer. Testimony in the trial revealed that the marijuana belonged to the Hells Angels organization in BC, Canada.
POSTLETHWAITE has been in custody in the U.S. since March 2012. Two dozen people in the U.S. and Canada have been charged in the case. Seven have already been sentenced to lengthy prison terms.
Other defendants already sentenced in the case include: Jacob Saul Stuart, the U.S. based leader of the ring, was sentenced last year to 15 years in prison; Michael Murphy, a pilot who transported drugs, 12 years in prison; Jacob Burdick, who stored and organized transportation of the drugs, 12 years in prison; John Washington, a drug distributor for the group, 11 years in prison; Glen Stewart, 52, a Custer, Washington based drug courier, 12 years in prison; Mario Joseph Fenianos, a Canadian who obtained and smuggled cocaine for the ring, 13 years in prison, and Michael William Dubois, another Canadian working on the cocaine side of the smuggling was sentenced to ten years in prison.Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement seized more than $2 million and 136 kilograms of cocaine. On April 28, 2011, the day search warrants were executed, law enforcement seized more than 1,000 kilograms of marijuana from locations across the country.
This was an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, providing supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved. The case was investigated by DEA Offices – Seattle, Chicago, Las Vegas, Fresno, Los Angeles and New Jersey; ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations - Seattle and Sacramento; Customs and Border Protection – Office of Air & Marine; King County Sheriff’s Department; Seattle Police Department; Washington State Patrol; Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force; and the Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement (California).
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeffrey Backhus and Vince Lombardi.
Swinomish Tribal Member Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Second Degree MurderRead the Press Release
An enrolled member of the Swinomish Indian Tribe was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 20 years in prison and five years of supervised release for second degree murder, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. KEVIN S. O’LEARY, 55, a resident of the Lummi Reservation admitted that on June 7, 2012, he used a pillow to smother his common-law wife, Valerie Jefferson, who was a Lummi tribal member. O’LEARY then wrapped her body in a blanket and hid it under the bed. Law enforcement discovered Jefferson’s body five days later. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik said, “This was an especially devastating domestic violence murder. The children lost their mother and grandmother. And the defendant’s actions after the death showed special callousness to those who loved Valerie Jefferson.”
According to the facts admitted in the plea agreement, O’LEARY and Jefferson had been arguing about an affair O’LEARY had had over a decade ago. After several hours of arguing, O’LEARY pushed Jefferson onto their bed, grabbed a pillow and held it tightly over her neck and pressed down until her body went limp and her eyes rolled up in her head. O’LEARY admits he killed Jefferson with malice aforethought, and wrapped the body in a blanket, and hid it under their bed. Both were enrolled tribal members and the murder was on Lummi tribal trust land, giving federal authorities jurisdiction in the case.
Speaking to the court Valerie Jefferson’s eldest daughter said, “We want him to know what he has taken from us. He’s taken away our mother and our father – he was the only father we knew….. My mom was a beautiful person. We hurt every day…. We are going to live in her honor the way she would have wanted us to be.”
Prosecutors noted that O’LEARY had previously caused the death of two other people writing to the court, “The defendant was convicted in 1981 with Negligent Homicide in Skagit County. In that case, the defendant was driving drunk when he missed a corner, and drove off the highway into a ravine. Two of his passengers were killed in the accident, including his girlfriend at the time. He received a 10-year sentence that was suspended, and he was placed on Probation.” Judge Lasnik noted that under today’s sentencing statutes, O’LEARY would have gotten far more prison time for that crime.
The case was investigated by Lummi Tribal police and the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jerrod Patterson.
Kent, Washington Father and Stepson Indicted on Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
A Kent, Washington man and his stepson were arrested this morning following their indictment on seven criminal counts related to gun sales and controlled substance distribution, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. The indictment alleges that MARK E. BRYANT, 49, and his step-son ANDREW GAGLEY, 30, illegally distributed Demerol. BRYANT is also charged in four different counts with distributing oxycontin, hydrocodone, and morphine on three different days in September and October 2012. BRYANT is also charged with selling a firearm to a drug user. GAGLEY is separately charged with selling a firearm to a felon and illegal alien. Both men will appear in U.S. District Court in Seattle today at 1:30.
BRYANT owns Westside Guns and East Valley Auto Rebuild on South 222nd Street in Kent. On multiple occasions BRYANT sold guns or drugs to persons working with law enforcement on the property of his Kent gun shop. GAGLEY also participated in gun and drug sales in and near the business. On October 26, 2012, GAGLEY allegedly sold a Colt .556 caliber, semi-automatic rifle to a person working with law enforcement. GAGLEY allegedly made the sale knowing that the person was prohibited from purchasing firearms because the buyer was in the U.S. illegally and was a convicted felon. Just two days before, on October 24, 2012, BRYANT illegally sold a Firestar .45 pistol handgun to a person he knew to be a drug user. As a Federal Firearms Licensee, BRYANT is required to file paperwork on gun sales and to maintain acquisition records on all firearms received and transferred to other persons.The arrests today are the culmination of an eight month investigation by the South Sound Task Force. The South Sound Task Force is comprised of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Lakewood Police Department (LPD) and the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB); with assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Air and Marine.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Each of the crimes charged are punishable by up to twenty years in prison and three years of supervised release.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ye-Ting Woo.
Tacoma Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
A 35 year-old Tacoma, Washington resident was sentenced Friday in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to 15 years in prison and five years of supervised release for interstate transportation of an individual for prostitution and conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. REGINALD IRVIN pleaded guilty in October 2012, following an investigation by the Tacoma Police Department, Lakewood Police Department, and the FBI’s Innocence Lost Task Force. U.S. District Judge Robert J. Bryan ordered IRVIN to register as a sex offender as part of his sentence.
According to records filed in the case, IRVIN exercised violent control over the women who he coerced to work for him as prostitutes. IRVIN controlled the women with a harsh list of rules including requiring the women to give him all money made from prostitution activities and not being allowed to leave the house on their own. When victims broke IRVIN’s rules the punishment included beatings, anal rape, being forced to strip naked and stand in the corner, being tied to the bed, as well as psychological and emotional abuse. Women working for IRVIN witnessed him beating other women, and became fearful of leaving him or disobeying his orders.
In asking for a 15 year sentence prosecutors wrote to the court, “Unquestionably Irvin is a predator who has a long history of assaulting and exploiting young women…. (H)e treated the victims herein like chattel, beating and belittling them into servitude. His history and characteristics demonstrate an individual who is a menace and danger to society.”
The case was investigated by the Tacoma Police Department, Lakewood Police Department, and the FBI’s Innocence Lost Task Force. The FBI’s Innocence Lost Task Force provides a rapid and effective investigative response to reported federal crimes involving the victimization of children. The task force strives to reduce the vulnerability of children to acts of sexual exploitation and abuse and strengthens the capabilities of federal, state, and local law enforcement through training programs and investigative assistance.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney’s Ye-Ting Woo and Bruce Miyake.
Renton Man Arrested for Selling Counterfeit Chihuly ArtRead the Press Release
A 35-year-old Renton, Washington, man was arrested today for trafficking in counterfeit goods related to his advertising and sale of artwork attributed to renowned artist Dale Chihuly, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. MICHAEL LITTLE was arrested this morning following an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). LITTLE will make his initial appearance in U.S. District Court at 1:30 this afternoon.
According to the criminal complaint filed in the case, in 2011 and 2012, LITTLE offered for sale or sold various pieces of glass art and paintings that he represented were the work of Dale Chihuly. LITTLE marketed the works via eBay. The artworks bore a signature that appeared to be Chihuly’s and LITTLE provided paperwork that he said authenticated the pieces as the work of Dale Chihuly. However, an expert in Chihuly’s work examined the pieces at the request of the purchaser and determined they were fakes. The papers that were supposed to authenticate the works were also allegedly forged.
Trafficking in counterfeit goods is punishable by up to ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Diggs.
White Center Bank Robber Sentenced to 8+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
A 31- year-old man who robbed a Chase Bank branch in the White Center neighborhood of southwest Seattle at gunpoint last year was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 102 months (8.5 years) in prison and three years of supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. BRYAN ALLEN HILL, was convicted of armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence following a jury trial in January 2013. HILL was arrested a few blocks from the bank on July 25, 2012, with the gun and cash that had been taken in the robbery. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez said this is “a very, very serious offense… basically terrorizing the individuals in the bank.”
According to records filed in the case and testimony at trial, HILL entered the bank with a blue bandana pulled up over his face. He pointed a handgun at the teller’s head and ordered the teller to put all the cash in the bag. While stuffing money into his bag, the bandana fell off of HILL’s face and the teller was able to see his face. Other workers in the bank were able to alert law enforcement and one wrote down a description of the robber. Within minutes of the robber leaving the bank, Seattle Police had a description and were searching the area around the bank for the suspect.
A Seattle Police officer spotted someone who was similar in appearance to the suspected robber walking quickly from the area. The officer ordered the man to stop and kneel on the ground. Witnesses from the bank were brought to the scene and identified the man, HILL, as the bank robber. When police searched the bag he was carrying they found the gun, cash, and some of the clothing HILL had removed following the bank robbery.
HILL was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods program. Unveiled in May 2001, Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a comprehensive and strategic approach to gun law enforcement. PSN is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in America by networking both new and existing local programs that target gun crime and then providing them with the resources and tools they need to succeed. Implementation at the local level -- in this case, in King County-- has fostered close partnerships between federal, state and local prosecutors and law enforcement.
The case was investigated by the Seattle Police Department, the King County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Hobbs and Assistant United States Attorney Ehren Reynolds. Mr. Hobbs is a Senior King County Deputy Prosecutor specially designated to prosecute gun cases in federal court.
White Center Bank Robber Sentenced to 8+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
A 31- year-old man who robbed a Chase Bank branch in the White Center neighborhood of southwest Seattle at gunpoint last year was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 102 months (8.5 years) in prison and three years of supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. BRYAN ALLEN HILL, was convicted of armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence following a jury trial in January 2013. HILL was arrested a few blocks from the bank on July 25, 2012, with the gun and cash that had been taken in the robbery. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez said this is “a very, very serious offense… basically terrorizing the individuals in the bank.”
According to records filed in the case and testimony at trial, HILL entered the bank with a blue bandana pulled up over his face. He pointed a handgun at the teller’s head and ordered the teller to put all the cash in the bag. While stuffing money into his bag, the bandana fell off of HILL’s face and the teller was able to see his face. Other workers in the bank were able to alert law enforcement and one wrote down a description of the robber. Within minutes of the robber leaving the bank, Seattle Police had a description and were searching the area around the bank for the suspect.
A Seattle Police officer spotted someone who was similar in appearance to the suspected robber walking quickly from the area. The officer ordered the man to stop and kneel on the ground. Witnesses from the bank were brought to the scene and identified the man, HILL, as the bank robber. When police searched the bag he was carrying they found the gun, cash, and some of the clothing HILL had removed following the bank robbery.
HILL was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods program. Unveiled in May 2001, Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a comprehensive and strategic approach to gun law enforcement. PSN is a nationwide commitment to reduce gun crime in America by networking both new and existing local programs that target gun crime and then providing them with the resources and tools they need to succeed. Implementation at the local level -- in this case, in King County-- has fostered close partnerships between federal, state and local prosecutors and law enforcement.
The case was investigated by the Seattle Police Department, the King County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Hobbs and Assistant United States Attorney Ehren Reynolds. Mr. Hobbs is a Senior King County Deputy Prosecutor specially designated to prosecute gun cases in federal court.
Pierce County Man who Shot Two Intruders at his Marijuana Grow Indicted for Drug Manufacturing and Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
JEREMY PETER CAPODANNO, 36, was arrested late yesterday following his indictment last week for manufacturing marijuana, and two counts for discharging and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug crime, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. On December 6, 2012, CAPODANNO shot two people who had broken into the garage of his Puyallup residence – killing both of them. In the garage loft was a marijuana grow with nearly 200 plants. When police officers arrived, they found CAPODANNO in possession of a Glock 17, 9mm semiautomatic pistol, which is the gun that police allege CAPODANNO used to kill the two men. While searching CAPODANNO’S truck, police found other weapons including a Bushmaster XM-15 Rifle; an Intratec Tec-9 9mm pistol; a Benelli 12 gauge shotgun; and a Professional Ordinance MDL Carbon 15. CAPODANNO will make his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Tacoma today at 2:30 PM.
“This defendant chose to enter the illegal drug business, and armed himself to protect his trade, not his home,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “His conduct brought thieves to his door, put his seven-year-old son at risk, and ended with him taking two lives.”
The indictment charges CAPODANNO with manufacturing marijuana because of the large grow operation found in the loft of his garage. He is charged with carrying the Glock and firing it in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime and is charged in the third count for possessing the four other weapons. The indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation, which means the government will seek to forfeit property that the Grand Jury has alleged was used in commission of the crimes or was purchased with marijuana proceeds. These properties include the defendant’s house in Puyallup, where the where the shooting occurred, as well as a second house in Kent, Washington, along with a 2008 Mercedes and a 2008 Toyota pickup truck. The government is also seeking to forfeit the guns used in the crime.
“As you can see, freedom without responsibility results in violence and bloodshed,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Matthew G. Barnes. “I commend United States Attorney Jenny Durkan and our state and local partners for standing together against drug trafficking and gun related violence.”
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Manufacturing marijuana is punishable by five to 40 years in prison. If convicted of all charges, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum 15 years in prison.
The case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Vince Lombardi and Matthew Thomas.
Seattle Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison for Dealing High Powered Narcotic while Possessing Multiple FirearmsRead the Press Release
A Seattle man who had a home loaded with drugs, guns and cash, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to nine years in prison, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. BERNARD AMIN MUSTAFA III, 37, was arrested April 19, 2012, when agents with a search warrant found multiple drugs, fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, BZP, oxycodone and ecstasy at his Seattle home. Investigators also found more than $300,000 in cash and three firearms. One of the guns, a high powered rifle, was set in a tripod and aimed out at the front window of the home toward the street. At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik said MUSTAFA “was a sophisticated drug dealer with deadly drugs and dangerous weapons.”
According to records filed in the case, the investigation of MUSTAFA began in early 2012 with the arrest of a street level dealer of fentanyl. MUSTAFA was identified as the dealer’s source of supply. When agents searched MUSTAFA’s home they found enough fentanyl for $200,000 worth of street sales. Fentanyl is very powerful, with users requiring only a few nanograms of the drug. Because it is usually diluted with a cutting agent before it is sold, and because those mixtures are generally inconsistent, it is a very dangerous drug on the street. Unless the product distributor competently and completely mixes the “cut” with the active ingredient, an unbalanced mixture can result, leading to overdose and death. According to DEA, the Community Epidemiology Work Group in King County reported 10 fentanyl overdose deaths in 2011.
In addition to the drugs in his home, MUSTAFA, a convicted felon, illegally possessed three firearms and body armor to protect the drugs and cash: a Remington brand .308 caliber rifle found near a safe containing money and drugs; an FNAR-brand 7.62 mm caliber rifle in the tripod on the table; and a Springfield Armory .40 caliber pistol found in the living room of the residence, next to a couch.
While MUSTAFA was incarcerated on these charges, his girlfriend was found dead from a drug overdose – fentanyl was one of the drugs in her system. The death is still being investigated by the Seattle Police. In asking the court for an 11 year sentence, prosecutors wrote: “Defendant’s criminal past has affected many people, ranging from those to whom he sold drugs, to his friends and to his family. He also placed the people closest to him in danger each time he had them in his home. The use, sale and possession of fentanyl undoubtedly contributed to the death of (his girlfriend).”
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Seattle Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Roger Rogoff.
Owner of Marijuana Dispensary Sentenced to Prison for Drug DealingRead the Press Release
A 32–year-old Seattle woman who co-owned and operated two “medical marijuana” dispensaries, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 42 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute marijuana and conspiracy to engage in money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. JING JING MO, 32, was a co-owner of Seattle Cannabis Cooperative with locations in the Rainier Valley and Greenwood. She and her partner, Craig Douglas Dieffenbach, 61, pleaded guilty in August 2012. Both admitted selling marijuana for profit under the guise of running a cooperative for sick people. At sentencing, Chief U.S. District Judge Marsha J. Pechman said the defendants “abused the public trust” when they distributed marijuana to people without medical authorizations and in large amounts. “They did it for greed,” Chief Judge Pechman said.
In her plea agreement, Mo admitted offering to sell 25 pounds of marijuana for distribution across the country. The couple also admitted laundering funds from the sale of marijuana to pay to modify homes for marijuana production. The pair were also tied in to other drug traffickers including one distributing substantial amounts of ecstasy. The couple admitted operating the marijuana stores for profit, selling pound quantities of marijuana to people who presented no medical authorization card.
In asking for a 42 month sentence, prosecutors told the court, “Ms. Mo was not engaged in some selfless attempt to help truly sick people access marijuana for medical purposes. Instead, she was simply dealing drugs, for profit, in blatant violation of both the letter, and the spirit, of state and federal law. Calling her operation a medical marijuana dispensary was little more than a cynical attempt to hide her activities behind a fiction of quasi-legality.”
MO is a citizen of Singapore who likely will be deported following her prison term.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vince Lombardi.
Man Who Fired Shots in Apartment Parking Lot Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Gun Crime and ID TheftRead the Press Release
A felon with a history of domestic violence, burglary and illegal weapons possession, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to ten years in prison, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. PISETH P. MAM, 34, was arrested in August 2012, a few days after a shooting incident at an apartment complex in Tukwila, Washington. No one was injured in the shooting, but video of the scene showed many adults and children in the area at risk. At sentencing, Chief U.S. District Judge Marsha J. Pechman said, “Anyone who would fire (a handgun) into a car in a crowded parking lot over a perceived slight is a dangerous person.”
According to records filed in the case, on August 12, 2012, police in Tukwila responded to a report of shots fired at the Ridge Springs Apartments. Witnesses described the driver of a white Honda firing gunshots in the parking lot before speeding away. A witness who was standing near the car when the driver started firing, was able to identify the shooter as MAM. A few days later, MAM was arrested at the Emerald Queen Casino. His car was impounded in the parking garage. When investigators with a court authorized search warrant went through the car, they found a stolen 9mm Beretta Pistol. MAM was prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior convictions for domestic violence assault (Washington 2004), burglary (Washington 2004) and possession of an assault weapon (California 2007). Also in the car, investigators found dozens of pieces of stolen mail. The investigation determined that MAM had used a credit card stolen from the mail to illegally make purchases at Home Depot. The conviction for aggravated identity theft means MAM faces a mandatory minimum of two year sentence to run consecutive with the sentence for the gun crime.
In asking for a significant sentence, prosecutors noted the danger of firing the gun in an apartment parking lot. “The video shows several people, many who were small children, in the area of the shooting,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo.
The case was investigated by the Tukwila Police Department, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Hobbs. Mr. Hobbs is a Senior Deputy King County Prosecuting Attorney specially designated to prosecute gun crimes in federal court.
Everett Resident Linked to Gun Smuggling for Drug Cartels Gets Five Year Prison TermRead the Press Release
An Everett, Washington man who was part of a drug and gun smuggling ring with ties to a crime group in Mexico, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to five years in prison, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. GEORGE ELLIOTT CHAVIS, 53, acquired guns for the group, some of which were smuggled into Mexico for use by a violent drug trafficking cartel. At sentencing U.S. District Court Judge Robert S. Lasnik said, “This was a very serious and dangerous crime – putting this kind of powerful firearms in the hands of drug traffickers.”
According to records in the case, CHAVIS acquired firearms for a violent drug trafficking organization, with direct ties to a violent cartel that intended to smuggle them back to Mexico. CHAVIS used his prior military experience and training to identify weapons for the group. In one instance, CHAVIS told a cartel leader that an assault weapon could be modified to a fully automatic machine gun. During the course of the investigation of the drug trafficking organization, investigators seized 20 pounds of heroin, in excess of 30 pounds of methamphetamine, over $400,000 in cash, body armor, and 18 firearms, including at least 10 assault-style rifles. CHAVIS was introduced to the drug traffickers by his daughter, Micalia Valenzuela, who was sentenced last month to five years in prison for her role in the crime group.
In January 2013, CHAVIS pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Possess Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime/Crime of Violence. All 34 defendants have been indicted in the case. Some have already pleaded guilty and been sentenced to prison terms ranging from one year to nine years in prison. Trial for the remaining defendants is scheduled for May 6, 2013.
In asking for a six year sentence, prosecutors wrote to the court that CHAVIS “was intimately involved in a violent drug organization’s efforts to acquire military-style assault rifles, to be smuggled back into Mexico - with predictably deadly results.”
This was an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, providing supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved. The case was investigated by the ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Snohomish Police Department, the Washington State Patrol, the Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force and the Seattle Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Vince Lombardi, John McNeil and J. Tate London.
Tacoma Man Sentenced to 33 Months in Prison for Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
One of four people indicted for scheming to fraudulently claim more than $145,000 in tax refunds using the names and Social Security numbers of inmates at the Washington State Penitentiary at Walla Walla, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. RICHARD SHANE WRIGHT, 43, was sentenced to 33 months in prison and three years of supervised release for conspiracy to defraud the government. The alleged leader of the conspiracy, Kenneth Randle Door, is scheduled for trial later this year. At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle ordered WRIGHT to pay $71,885 in restitution to the U.S. Department of Treasury and remarked, “the United States Treasury is not the real victim” of this serious offense; rather, “the real victims are the millions of people who will be filing their tax returns later this month. . . . Our system relies upon folks who pay their taxes to fund the operation of what is still the greatest country on Earth ̶ perhaps the greatest country that has ever existed.”
According to records filed in the case, WRIGHT joined the scheme in late March 2009, which was responsible for filing at least 31 fraudulent tax returns for tax years 2007 and 2008. Door provided the names and Social Security numbers of his fellow inmates at the Washington State Penitentiary, which WRIGHT and others used to create and file fake W-2 forms and federal income tax returns, all claiming tax refunds due. In order to fabricate employment and wage data, the conspirators identified companies that had declared bankruptcy and had recently closed. WRIGHT created fake W-2 forms indicating wages paid and taxes withheld from the individuals whose identities they used. The refunds were typically directed to one of several bank accounts controlled by WRIGHT or another associate. In all, the conspirators tried to obtain more than $145,000 in tax refunds, and nearly $72,000 was paid out. Co-schemers Lucy Anne Hyder, aka Lucy Bailey, 53, was sentenced in February to eight months in prison, and Ruth Louise Branstetter, aka Ruth Bishop, 48, was sentenced last month to almost 7 months in prison.
“Stopping refund fraud remains a priority for IRS CI because when people steal from the U.S. Treasury the real victim is every honest taxpayer in America,” said Special Agent in Charge Kenneth J. Hines, of Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, in Seattle. “These crimes are a threat to our nation’s ability to fund programs and services for our communities, and Special Agents of IRS CI will continue to work with our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office to detect these frauds, shut them down, and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
The case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven Masada.
Statement of U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan on the Resignation of Seattle Police Department Chief John DiazRead the Press Release
I have worked closely with Chief John Diaz for many years. He has been a key partner in addressing gun violence, dismantling criminal organizations, and combatting terrorist threats. He oversaw the first steps of the implementation of reforms within the Seattle Police Department. I am grateful for his partnership and service, and wish him well.
This is a critical time for SPD and our community. Jim Pugel has shown before that he can step up and lead. To move us forward, he will need to help guide and implement the full range of reforms and set clear expectations and direction for every officer. The next several months are very important for reform and public accountability. SPD will be drafting and adopting new policies and developing new training around use of force, bias-free policing, and stops. Getting reform right requires everyone moving in the same direction. Chief Pugel's leadership will be essential.
Former Los Angeles Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Prison for Role in Plot to Attack Seattle Military Processing CenterRead the Press Release
SEATTLE – A former Los Angeles resident was sentenced today to 17 years in prison in connection with the June 2011 plot to attack a military installation in Seattle, U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan announced. Walli Mujahidh, 34, pleaded guilty in December 2011 to conspiracy to murder officers and agents of the United States and conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Mujahidh plotted with lead defendant Abu Khalid Abdul-Latif of Seattle in a plan to use grenades and machine guns to attack recruits at the Military Entrance Processing Center in a federal office complex in south Seattle. U.S. District Judge James L. Robart imposed 10 years of supervised release following the prison term.
“This defendant was a cold hearted, enthusiastic partner in this murderous scheme. He talked at length in recorded conversations about the innocent people he planned to gun down,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “Even after his arrest he boldly tried to justify his plot. I am thankful this plot was disrupted, and again thank the FBI and Seattle Police Department.”
The other defendant in the case, Abu Khalid Abdul-Latif, of Seattle, was sentenced to 18 years in prison last month.
Law enforcement first became aware of the plot when a citizen alerted them that he/she had been approached by Abdul-Latif about participating in the attack and supplying firearms to the conspirators. The person then agreed to work with law enforcement, which began monitoring Abdul-Latif and Mujahidh. Beginning in early June 2011, the conspirators were captured on audio and videotape discussing a violent assault on the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). The MEPS is where each branch of the military screens and processes enlistees. In addition to housing many civilian and military employees, the building houses a federal daycare center.
In his plea agreement, Mujahidh admitted that he agreed to carry out the planned attack and that he traveled to Seattle from Los Angeles to participate in the attack. Mujahidh arrived in Seattle on June 21, 2011. On that same day, during a meeting between Abdul-Latif, Mujahidh, and a person who was working with law enforcement, Abdul-Latif outlined the plan of attacking the MEPS with machine guns and grenades, and took steps to purchase weapons and further the plot. In accordance with the defendants’ plan, the next day the person working with police brought three machine guns to a meeting with Abdul-Latif and Mujahidh. The men were arrested after they took possession of the weapons, which had been rendered inoperable by law enforcement.
In their sentencing memo, prosecutors describe multiple times where Mujahidh described his enthusiasm for the attack and his terrorist motivations. “During the planning sessions for the attack, Mujahidh made clear that he was eager to kill his intended victims, and as many as possible. He made numerous statements along these lines while he and Abdul-Latif planned out the play-by-play movements of the attackers using the map of the Federal Center South building,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo.
The case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington, with assistance from the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. The investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which has investigators from federal, state and local law enforcement, and the Seattle Police Department. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) contributed significant expertise to this investigation.
Anacortes Nurse Pleads Guilty to Tampering with Narcotic Pain Medications at Hospice FacilityRead the Press Release
A 33-year-old nurse from Anacortes, Washington pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to tampering with consumer products and acquiring a controlled substance by fraud or misrepresentation, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. ERIN LINVOG, a former nurse at Fidalgo Care Center & Rosario Assisted Living, faces up to ten years in prison when sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard A. Jones on July 12, 2013.
According to the facts admitted in the plea agreement, in June 2010, LINVOG began working at the Rosario Assisted Living Center, an elder care facility in Anacortes, Washington, that offers skilled nursing and hospice care to terminally ill patients. LINVOG became credentialed as a registered nurse in November 2011. Sometime in late 2011, LINVOG began stealing narcotics from the facility for her own use. Using her position and authority as a nurse, she requested and received orders for morphine from pharmacies on behalf of Rosario patients, but then diverted entire bottles of narcotics rather than properly logging them into the assigned medicine carts. Moreover, in multiple instances admitted in the plea agreement, LINVOG removed liquid morphine from medicine bottles for her own use, and replaced the missing morphine with tap water, before returning the tampered bottles back to the facility’s medicine carts, where they could have been, and at times were, administered to patients.
The morphine was intended to alleviate the pain of various elderly patients in end-of-life care. LINVOG’s conduct meant that patients near the end of their life were receiving inadequate amounts of medicine to treat their pain and discomfort, and that medical staff did not have a clear picture of the appropriate dosage – since the morphine on hand was diluted. The conduct created the risk that patients could be overdosed if treated with non-diluted medicine, as well as the risk they would suffer needlessly in their final days. LINVOG’s conduct was discovered by the facility in February 2012, which led to her termination shortly thereafter.
The case was investigated by the United States Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Anacortes Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Steven Masada and Jerrod Patterson.
Vancouver Washington Man Indicted for Trafficking in Counterfeit Vehicle AirbagsRead the Press Release
A 25 year-old Vancouver, Washington man was arrested earlier this week on a four count indictment charging him with trafficking in counterfeit goods, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. VITALIY YAREMKIV, was arrested April 2, 2013 and will have a detention hearing today at 3:15 PM in U.S. District Court in Tacoma. Prosecutors allege that between June 2011 and June 2012, YAREMKIV sold more than 900 counterfeit vehicle airbags he had purchased from a source in China. If convicted, YAREMKIV faces up to ten years in prison and a $2 million fine. Trial in the case is scheduled for May 28, 2013 in front of U.S. District Judge Ronald B. Leighton.
“Counterfeit airbags shred the safety systems built into our cars, which could cause catastrophic results. Counterfeit airbags may fail to deploy in crashes, or deploy in a ball of fire,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “I commend the investigation by the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations to stem the flow of these counterfeits to get them out of our cars and marketplace.”
According to the indictment, YAREMKIV operated a business, Vital Auto Parts and Sales, out of his Vancouver home. He allegedly imported counterfeit Honda, Subaru and Toyota airbags from sources in China and elsewhere, and sold them over the internet representing them as the genuine product. YAREMKIV sold at least 964 of the counterfeit airbags via eBay with a sales total of $137,243. YAREMKIV sold individual Honda airbags for an asking price of $110. Investigators believe that many of the airbags are sold to independent garages who install them in vehicles believing they have purchased a genuine airbag.
“Counterfeit air bags are untested, unregulated, and extremely unsafe,” said Brad Bench, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Seattle. “While law enforcement is working to stem the flow of these dangerous products into the U.S., it’s important that consumers are aware of this danger. Automobile safety experts say it’s critical that vehicle owners work with their automotive dealers and repair professionals to ensure they use the appropriate, original equipment parts in the event they need to replace their air bag.”
“Every day, people entrust their lives to safety devices because they have been thoroughly researched, rigorously tested, and carefully constructed,” said FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Carlos L. Mojica. “Counterfeit devices do not carry that same guarantee, threatening the lives of unknowing users and violating their trust. The FBI and its partners will continue to seek and stop those like Mr. Yaremkiv, who irresponsibly put innocent lives at risk for their personal, financial gain.”
Information for consumers regarding counterfeit airbags is available here: http://www.safercar.gov/
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case was investigated by the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Norman Barbosa.
Washington Man Indicted on Federal Hate Crime Charge Related to Racially-Motivated AssaultRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Seattle has indicted Jamie Larson, 49, on a federal hate crime charge relating to a racially-motivated assault of a 50-year-old Sikh man.
“Attacks such as this one, based on prejudice and racial hate, are contrary to who we are and violate the law,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “Protecting the civil rights of all the members of our community is a top priority for our office.”
Jamie Larson has been charged with one count of violating the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act that was enacted in October 2009. The indictment alleges that on Oct. 17, 2012, the subject assaulted the victim, based upon the victim’s actual and perceived race, color and national origin, which included Middle Eastern and Arab descent. The defendant was arrested at the scene of the attack after a witness called 911.
Larson will appear in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 1:30 today.
The charge carries a statutory maximum of 10 years in prison.
The Shepard-Byrd law criminalizes acts of physical violence causing bodily injury motivated by any person’s actual or perceived race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or disability.
The matter is being investigated by the Seattle Division of the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce F. Miyake of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington and Trial Attorney Nicholas Durham of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and the subject is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Repeat Offender Sentenced to 15 Year Prison Term for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
A 35-year-old Auburn, Washington man was sentenced today to 15 years in prison and five years of supervised release for being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition, and possession and distribution of cocaine base. MICHAEL PAUL GRADNEY, was identified and prosecuted as part of the 2011 ‘Hot Spot’ initiative designed to combat street crime in the White Center area of King County. GRADNEY was convicted in December 2012 after a five day jury trial. At sentencing today U.S. District Judge James L. Robart noted that GRADNEY lied when he testified during the trial and had “flagrant disregard for the law.”
According to records filed in the case and testimony at trial, GRADNEY sold cocaine to people working with law enforcement on two different occasions in September 2011. In October 2011, law enforcement witnessed GRADNEY making what appeared to be multiple hand to hand drug sales at a gas station and various bars in the White Center neighborhood. On October 13, 2011, officers searched GRADNEY’s Auburn residence and seized a Glock 10 mm pistol, a North American Arms 22 caliber revolver, ammunition for three different firearms, more than $25,000 in cash as well as cocaine and a scale with cocaine residue. GRADNEY is prohibited from possessing firearms because of his lengthy criminal history including five prior felony convictions for drug offenses.
The White Center ‘Hot Spot’ initiative targeted law enforcement resources in the White Center area from July to October 2011. The operation focused on illegal gun sales and drug dealing both on the street and in area businesses. In all approximately 50 people were arrested and law enforcement seized 68 guns, 51 lbs of methamphetamine, 2 lbs of crack cocaine and more than 10 lbs of powder cocaine.
This was an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, providing supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved. The investigation was a coordinated joint effort by ATF, the King County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigation (HSI), the Seattle Police Department, the King County Metro Transit Police, Washington State Department of Corrections, Washington State Liquor Control Board and the Eastside Narcotics Task Force.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Dion and Seth Wilkinson.Leader of Whatcom County Drug Distribution Ring Pleads Guilty to Gun and Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
The leader of a Whatcom County based drug distribution ring, who corrupted a state prison worker, pleaded guilty to gun and drug crimes, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. TODD HAMILTON, 35, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The drug crime carries a mandatory minimum 10 years in prison, and the firearm charge carries a mandatory minimum five years in prison to run consecutive to any sentence imposed on the drug crime. Prosecutors and HAMILTON’s attorneys have agreed to recommend a sentence between 16 and 21 years in prison when he is sentenced by U.S. District Judge John C. Coughenour on June 11, 2013.
According to the plea agreement and other records filed in the case, upon his January 2011 release from Washington State prison, HAMILTON began running a heroin and methamphetamine distribution ring operating in Whatcom County. During a court authorized wiretap investigation, law enforcement learned HAMILTON purchased significant quantities of methamphetamine and heroin from his Olympia, Washington based supplier and had it transported to the Bellingham area for further distribution. When HAMILTON’s home was searched in December 2011, investigators found meth and heroin, drug ledgers and packaging Materials. They also found a loaded Cobra Enterprise, Inc. .45 caliber pistol.
During the investigation, DEA agents learned that HAMILTON purchased several pounds of methamphetamine and heroin each week, spending tens of thousands of dollars to redistribute the drugs in his community for profit. The investigation also revealed that HAMILTON had recruited an employee of the Department of Corrections (DOC) to assist him with his drug trafficking. The employee, also charged and convicted in this conspiracy, used his access to a Department of Corrections computer to determine whether law enforcement was investigating HAMILTON. He no longer works for the DOC.In all, 14 defendants have pleaded guilty in this conspiracy. Those who have been sentenced so far have received five to eight years in prison.
This was an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, providing supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved, and was investigated and prosecuted pursuant to the United States Attorney’s Northwest Washington Hot Spot Initiative. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Washington State Department of Corrections, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), and the Northwest Regional Drug Task Force.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jill Otake and Roger Rogoff.
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Former Lake Forest Park Water Clerk Indicted for Embezzling More Than $350,000Read the Press Release
The former Office Manager of the Lake Forest Park Water District is being arraigned today on an indictment charging fifteen counts of wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. JACKEE BORMANN-ZWEEKHORST, 40, is scheduled to appear in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:30 today. The indictment alleges that BORMANN-ZWEEKHORST used a variety of schemes to embezzle more than $350,000 from the small water district between 2004 and 2011.
According to the indictment, BORMANN-ZWEEKHORST was responsible for submitting bills to King County for reimbursement from water district funds. BORMANN-ZWEEKHORST was supposed to prepare the vouchers and supporting documents for the water district commissioners to review and approve. The approved vouchers then went to King County for payment. Ms. BORMANN-ZWEEKHORT is alleged to have committed fraud through a variety of means. On multiple occasions BORMANN-ZWEEKHORST falsified time cards so that her children were paid for work never performed for the water district. The amount of money claimed via the falsified time cards was in excess of $100,000. The second aspect of the scheme involved the use of the water district credit card. BORMANN-ZWEEKHORST used the card to pay for personal items and then caused the payment of water district funds to pay the bill. Some of the expenses she billed to the water district card included college tuition for her child, hot tub parts and service, boating and automotive equipment, fishing gear and rental car expenses. The amount of fraud on the water district credit card exceeded $90,000. The final aspect of fraud was having the water district pay for personal items purchased with her American Express card and for other personal expenses, by claiming the expenses were work-related, when in fact, they were not. Many of the receipts submitted for reimbursement were fabricated to support purchases that never occurred. BORMANN-ZWEEKHORST sought reimbursement for more than $70,000 in personal items and for items never purchased through this aspect of the fraud.
Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the FBI and the Lake Forest Park Police Department. Significant assistance is being provided by the Washington State Auditor’s Office.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Diggs.
Felon Who Chased and Fired Gun at Car Full of Strangers Sentenced to 11 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
A repeat offender with a history of assault and drug crimes was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 11 years in prison and three years of supervised release for two crimes in early April 2012 involving guns and explosives, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. SHANE STEPHEN ANELLO, 37, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a stolen firearm and unlawful possession of a destructive device. The first charge stems from a car chase on April 3, 2012 where ANELLO started following and then shot at a car full of strangers. The second charge relates to the April 1, 2012, firebombing of a vehicle at the ‘Nickelsville’ homeless encampment in Seattle. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Richard A. Jones told him, “These were two crimes of violence, two crimes that caused horrific fear in the victims.”
“The random and dangerous actions of this defendant could have resulted in tragedy,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “He targeted strangers and the homeless. We need him off our streets for a significant period, with careful monitoring by Federal Probation on his release.”
According to documents filed in the case, just after midnight on April 3, 2012, three people were stopped at a red light at the Columbian Way exit from southbound Interstate 5. A man, later identified as ANELLO, pulled up next to the victim’s car at the light. ANELLO was driving a white Ford Escort. ANELLO made eye contact with the victims in the car. The victims had never encountered ANELLO before. When the light turned green, ANELLO began following the victims’ car. ANELLO turned off his car’s headlights and followed the victims at a high rate of speed. ANELLO attempted to ram the victims’ car, and ANELLO fired at least one shot at the victim car as he chased it. The victims saw the muzzle flash and heard the sound of a gunshot. Fortunately, they were able to get away from ANELLO. Seattle Police responded to their 9-1-1 call, and started canvassing the Georgetown area for the car. Police spotted the vehicle driving with its lights out, and cornered it in a parking lot. ANELLO was arrested and a Colt Python .38 caliber revolver and ammunition were found in the car.
After ANELLO was arrested and identified in the chase and shooting, Seattle Police linked him to the firebombing of a vehicle in the parking lot of the ‘Nickelsville’ homeless camp in South Seattle. ANELLO threw a ‘Molotov cocktail’ at the car belonging to the person who had barred him from returning to the homeless camp. The gas filled bottle caught the vehicle on fire, but fortunately the gas tank of the car did not explode – had that happened those nearby could have been badly injured or killed.
ANELLO is prohibited from possessing firearms because of these prior felony convictions in King County Superior Court: assault, 2003; delivery of cocaine, 2004; conspiracy to deliver cocaine, 2006; possession of cocaine, 2006, 2007, 2010; and assault and attempting to elude a police vehicle, 2008.
The case was investigated by the Seattle Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) with assistance from the Seattle Fire Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Greenberg.
Federal Defendants Caught in Law Enforcement Sting Operation Get Significant Prison Terms for Gun and Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
Two federal defendants prosecuted as part of “Operation Oliver’s Twist” were sentenced today to significant prison terms, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. The men were arrested in 2012 following the successful law enforcement operation where members of the Seattle Police Department, ATF and FBI operated a storefront purchasing drugs and stolen property, including firearms. The defendants sentenced today will serve their federal time in addition to state sentences.
“Every gun in the hands of a criminal presents a danger to the community. This operation took stolen firearms off the street and uncovered drug networks pumping oxycodone into our neighborhoods,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “I commend the good work of our state and federal law enforcement partners, as well as our counterparts in the King County Prosecutors Office who have held 34 defendants accountable.”
One of the defendants sentenced today, PATRICK KELLY ANKROM, 48, of Snohomish, Washington, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute oxycodone and being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez sentenced ANKROM to five years in prison and three years of supervised release. The federal sentence will be served consecutive to an additional 17 month sentence in Snohomish County. ANKROM sold oxycodone to undercover officers on multiple occasions in March and April 2011. On April 4, 2011, ANKROM sold officers three firearms that had been stolen in burglaries: a loaded Ruger .44 revolver; a Rock Island Armory .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol; and a GSG .22 caliber semi-automatic rifle. ANKROM was indicted February 29, 2012 and pleaded guilty July 27, 2012.
In the second case concluded today, U.S. District Judge Richard A. Jones sentenced SHAD BEACH, 38, of Seattle, to six years in prison and three years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of firearms. In April and May 2011, BEACH sold numerous stolen items, including vehicles and computers, to the undercover law enforcement officers who were operating the storefront. On May 2, 2011, BEACH sold the undercover officers numerous firearms he had stolen in burglaries. The firearms included: a Rohm .22 caliber revolver; a Ruger .22 caliber rifle; a Remington .243 caliber rifle; a Mossberg 410-gauge shotgun; a Remington .22 caliber rifle; and a Winchester 12-gauge shotgun. BEACH was indicted on February 29, 2012 and pleaded guilty on November 19, 2012. BEACH has a number of criminal convictions that preclude him from possessing firearms including: burglary, methamphetamine possession, attempted assault, eluding police, possession of stolen property, trafficking in stolen property, unlawful possession of a firearm and residential burglary and theft of a firearm.
“This investigation uncovered over 100 participants, but today we see two of the most brazen face justice for their actions,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Laura M. Laughlin of the FBI Seattle office. “Mr. Ankrom and Mr. Beach did not just sell stolen weapons and contraband, but they did so again and again. Without the joint SPD, ATF, and FBI effort on an inventive undercover operation, high-powered firearms could have ended up in the hands of violent criminals.”
“This was one of the most elaborate undercover operations our Department has conducted in over 33 years. Our detectives developed great cases on these two suspects and brought them to justice. Our communities can rest a little easier knowing these dangerous men, their illegal drugs and illegally-possessed guns have been removed from the streets of Seattle. This is just another example of the incredible work that the men and women of the Seattle Police Department perform each and every day,” said Chief John Diaz.
The cases were investigated by the Seattle Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) and the FBI. Special Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Hobbs handled the sentencing hearings today.Two Repeat Robbers Convicted of String of Masked Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
Two men with a quarter century history of robbing banks, were found guilty late yesterday of a string of bank robberies in the Seattle area, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. The two men, 66-year-old JACK P. SEXTON and 65-year-old RONALD C. KETTELLS were convicted of conspiracy to commit bank robbery, three armed bank robberies and using a firearm during a crime of violence. The jury deliberated for about a day before finding the men guilty following a seven day trial. Both men face a mandatory minimum 57 years in prison when sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik on June 21, 2013.
According to testimony at trial and records filed in the case, the two men were linked to three bank robberies in the Seattle area between August and October 2011. On August 8, 2011 the two men robbed a Key Bank branch on Holman Road in north Seattle. In that case the men used a bandana and a t-shirt to disguise their faces. They pointed a handgun at the tellers and threatened to kill them if they did not lie down on the floor.
They next robbed the Wells Fargo bank branch on Greenwood Avenue in Shoreline on September 12, 2011. The men wore masks: one of an elderly man, the other of President Richard Nixon. The men were armed with a pistol grip shotgun and a handgun.
Finally, on October 20, 2011, the men robbed a Washington Federal Bank branch in West Seattle. One wore a Hillary Clinton mask, the other the same “elderly man” mask as in the previous robbery. Again they pointed the pistol grip shotgun and handgun at the tellers and demanded money.
Key information in the case came from an alert neighbor at one of the robberies who noted the license plate number of the get-away car. The car was ultimately linked to SEXTON and the person who had sold him the vehicle knew where SEXTON and KETTELLS were living. Both had recently been released from prison. A search of their vehicles and residence turned up bags used in the robberies as well as four firearms – including the ones used in the robberies. Investigators also found the masks used in the robbery, and DNA on the inside of the masks linked them to both men.
Both men have numerous prior convictions. KETTELLS has convictions dating back to 1963 for assault, burglary and bank robbery. Similarly, SEXTON has convictions dating back to the 1960s for burglary, forgery, and armed bank robbery.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Seattle Safe Streets Task Force, which includes investigators from the Seattle Police Department, as well as the King County Sheriff’s Office
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew Friedman and Francis Franze-Nakamura.
Lummi Tribal Member Sentenced to 97 Months in Prison for Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
An enrolled member of the Lummi Tribe was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 97 months in prison for Voluntary Manslaughter in the death of his six month old daughter, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. LAWRENCE V. TOM, JR., 23, pleaded guilty in November 2012. In addition, Chief U.S. District Judge Marsha J. Pechman imposed three years of supervised release.
According to the plea agreement, on May 10, 2012, TOM was home alone with his infant daughter as well as his 18-month-old daughter when he became frustrated with the infant’s crying. TOM squeezed the infant’s head between his right bicep and forearm, causing a traumatic brain injury. Early on May 13, TOM asked neighbors to call 9-1-1 saying his infant daughter had stopped breathing. The child died from skull fractures and brain bleeding.
In asking for a ten year sentence, prosecutors wrote to the court the infant “suffered greatly in her home for several days before Defendant sought medical care for her. When first confronted about his daughter’s injuries, Defendant lied in an attempt to cover up his violent act against his daughter. In short, the nature and circumstances of Defendant’s conduct, the seriousness of the offense, and the goals of general and specific deterrence warrant the imposition of a 120-month custodial sentence.”
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Lummi Tribal Police Department. The Lummi Nation is a self-governing, federally recognized Indian Tribe. The Lummis are the third largest tribe in Washington State, serving over 5,000 members whose median age is 29 years old. The Lummi Tribal Police Department has approximately 20 commissioned officers and is recognized for its responsive law enforcement services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Tate London. Mr. London has served as the Tribal Liaison for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Seattle Man Sentenced to 18 Years in Prison for Plot to Attack Seattle Military Processing CenterRead the Press Release
SEATTLE – A Seattle man was sentenced today to 18 years in prison in connection with the June 2011 plot to attack a military installation in Seattle, U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan announced. Abu Khalid Abdul-Latif, aka Joseph Anthony Davis, 35, pleaded guilty in December 2012 to conspiracy to murder officers and agents of the United States and conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction. Abdul-Latif planned to use grenades and machine guns to attack recruits at the Military Entrance Processing Center in a federal office complex in south Seattle. U.S. District Judge James L. Robart imposed ten years of supervised release saying this plot “could have done incredible harm if it had gone forward.”
“This defendant planned to attack a military center when there would be the largest possible gathering of new recruits and their families. He targeted young men and women solely because they wanted to serve our country. His goal: to inspire others with a message of hate,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “His plot was disrupted by vigilance in our community and good work by law enforcement. I commend the Seattle Police, and the FBI for their work, and thank the leaders of our Muslim communities who work tirelessly to ensure the acts of extremists are not used to condemn their faith.”
“Countless innocent people targeted by Mr. Abdul-Latif are safe thanks to the vigilance of Seattle’s Muslim community and the dedicated work of law enforcement partners,” said Laura M. Laughlin, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI Seattle office. “The plot may have been thwarted, but its mere existence and the extremist thinking behind it are despicable. I hope that Mr. Abdul-Latif uses his years in prison to reflect on what it means to be a true member of an American community, built on respect for all.”
“I am pleased with the outcome of this very important joint agency investigation. With support from the Muslim community and the diligent work of Seattle Police Detectives and our federal partners, a dangerous man will spend a long time behind bars and our community will be safer for it,” said Seattle Police Chief John Diaz.
The other defendant in the case, Walli Mujahidh, 33, of Los Angeles, is scheduled for sentencing on April 8, 2013.
Law enforcement first became aware of the plot when a citizen alerted them that he/she had been approached by Abdul-Latif about participating in the attack and supplying firearms to the conspirators. The person then agreed to work with law enforcement, which began monitoring Abdul-Latif and Mujahidh. Beginning in early June 2011, the conspirators were captured on audio and videotape discussing a violent assault on the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). The MEPS is where each branch of the military screens and processes enlistees. In addition to housing many civilian and military employees, the building houses a federal daycare center.
In his plea agreement, Abdul-Latif admits that he agreed to carry out the planned attack and that he made plans for Mujahidh to travel to Seattle from Los Angeles to participate in the attack. Mujahidh arrived in Seattle on June 21, 2011. On that same day, during a meeting between Abdul-Latif, Mujahidh, and a person who was working with law enforcement, Abdul-Latif outlined the plan of attacking the MEPS with machine guns and grenades, and took steps to purchase weapons and further the plot. In accordance with the defendants’ plan, the next day the person working with police brought three machine guns to a meeting with Abdul-Latif and Mujahidh. The men were arrested after they took possession of the weapons, which had been rendered inoperable by law enforcement.
Prosecutors noted that a lengthy term was necessary to protect the public, and urged future monitoring by Federal Probation. “Abdul-Latif undertook his plot in furtherance of his long-standing and deeply felt radical beliefs. To this day, he has not disavowed the radical ideology that inspired his attack plot, nor has he expressed any meaningful remorse for his conduct,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo.
The case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington, with assistance from the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. The investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which has investigators from federal, state and local law enforcement, and the Seattle Police Department. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) contributed significant expertise to this investigation.Owner of ‘Davy Crockett’ Barge Sentenced to Prison for Clean Water Act Violations for Oil Spill on Columbia RiverRead the Press Release
Owner of Salvage Company was Informed of Oil on Barge and Failed to Act before Salvage; then Ignored Leaks, failing to Report them to Authorities
The Ellensburg, Washington man responsible for a $22 million oil clean up and salvage operation on the Columbia River was sentenced today to four months in prison, eight months of home detention, 100 hours of community service and three years of supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. BRET A. SIMPSON, 53, the owner of Principle Metals, LLC, pleaded guilty in July 2012 to two criminal violations of the Clean Water Act; failing to report a discharge of oil, and unlawfully discharging oil into the Columbia River near Camas, Washington. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle told him, “it has to be known that when you undertake a responsibility that has the potential to ruin an ecosystem you’re going to bear the consequences.”
“This defendant’s singular focus on maximizing his profits, at the expense of even minimal environmental safeguards, cost taxpayers millions of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “Mr. Simpson exhibited no regard for the likelihood that his misguided salvage efforts could, and in fact did, lead to an environmental emergency that was only partially averted by a massive federal and state response.”
With his guilty plea SIMPSON admitted that he was informed about oil left on the ‘Davy Crockett’ barge before salvage operations began. However, SIMPSON failed to have the oil removed before workers started cutting up the metal barge. When the first oil spill occurred in early December 2010, SIMPSON failed to notify authorities and failed to take adequate steps to monitor the vessel or protect it from natural forces and further structural damage. Subsequent spills in January 2011 led U.S. Coast Guard investigators to identify the ‘Davy Crockett’ as the source and initiate a federally funded cleanup effort. Ultimately the U.S. Coast Guard and state authorities spent eight months and approximately $22 million to clean up the spill and remove the derelict barge from the river.
“Today Mr. Simpson is being held accountable for his criminal acts,” said Rear Adm. Keith A. Taylor, Commander of the 13th Coast Guard District. “The next step is holding him accountable for the more than $22 million spent from the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund during the extensive, Coast Guard led, multi-agency cleanup. We continue to work closely with the Department of Justice on all aspects of this case. The Coast Guard is committed to protecting the maritime environment of the Pacific Northwest and our nation. Actions like Mr. Simpson's will not be tolerated.”
“Paying a serious price for environmental crime is unfortunately not new for Defendant Simpson,” said Tyler Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge for the U.S. EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Seattle. “His negligence degraded the Columbia River, created a hazard to navigation and cost more than $22 million to clean up. His sentencing today should serve as notice to irresponsible vessel owners who doubt our resolve to vigorously pursue and prosecute environmental crimes.”
The M/V Davy Crockett is a former U.S. Navy ship that had been converted to a flat deck barge. SIMPSON’s company planned to cut the barge apart and sell the metal for scrap. SIMPSON assembled a crew to begin dismantling the M/V Davy Crockett at its place of moorage in the Columbia River in October 2010. He made no arrangements to remove the fuel oil and diesel fuel from the vessel before the scrapping operation began. On December 1, 2010, a member of the scrapping crew cut into a structural beam of the barge, and the ship began breaking apart and leaking oil. Neither SIMPSON nor anyone else with Principle Metals LLC notified authorities about the leak. The scrapping operation was halted.
SIMPSON initially addressed the oil release by ceasing all scrapping operations, procuring a boom to limit the release of oil into the Columbia River, and directing an employee to monitor vessel conditions. The employee monitored vessel conditions for approximately one week following the initial release before being relieved of his employment. SIMPSON took no further steps to monitor the ship, or the boom, and took no steps to protect the barge from further structural damage. On January 19, 2011, an accumulation of debris next to the barge forced it to move, and additional oil was released. The Coast Guard responded to the additional movement of the barge, and issued an administrative order for SIMPSON to remove any remaining visible oil from machinery spaces and deck tubes together with other salvage debris from the vessel. SIMPSON complied and authorities believed the barge no longer posed an environmental danger. However on January 27, 2011, additional oil was released from the vessel and state and federal authorities immediately responded in an effort to limit environmental damage.
Detailed timeline of the clean up and material removed from the water is available here: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/spills/incidents/DavyCrockett/DavyCrockett.html
The case was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency Criminal Investigation Division (EPA-CID), the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the Washington State Department of Ecology, and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James Oesterle and Special Assistant United States Attorney Lieutenant Commander Marianne Gelakoska of the U.S. Coast Guard. Mr. Oesterle heads the U.S. Attorney’s Office working group on environmental crimes.
Algona, Washington Man Sentenced to 18 Years in Prison for Possession and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
An Algona, Washington man with a history of molesting young boys, was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 18 years in prison and lifetime supervised release for distribution and possession of child pornography. MICHAEL ALLEN DREYER, 59, was convicted of distribution of child pornography and possession of child pornography following a four day jury trial in September 2012. DREYER has a May 2000 conviction for possession of child pornography and therefore faced a mandatory minimum 15 years in prison. At sentencing Chief U.S. District Judge Marsha J. Pechman said, “People who create the market for child pornography are as guilty as those who took the photos, posed the children, and engaged in their physical abuse.”
According to records filed in the case, DREYER most recently came to the attention of law enforcement during an investigation of child pornography distribution utilizing peer-to-peer file sharing software. In April 2011, a federal investigator operating online was able to observe the files DREYER was sharing over the peer-to-peer network and saw images and videos of child pornography. Investigators traced the internet protocol address to DREYER’s Algona, Washington home. In July 2011, law enforcement served a search warrant at DREYER’s home, seizing a computer and other media storage devices. DREYER has been in federal custody since April 2012. DREYER was indicted by the grand jury in May 2012. The forensic examination of his computer revealed that it contained more than 20 video files of child pornography and over 1,300 image files of child pornography.
In May 2000, DREYER was sentenced to 27 months in prison for possession of child pornography. DREYER had attempted to order child pornography from an undercover website operated by law enforcement. When his home was searched, additional child pornography was found. DREYER also admitted to molesting two young relatives in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and told agents he used child pornography as a release to satisfy his urges to molest children.
In asking for a 25 year sentence, prosecutors wrote to the court that “The distribution and possession of child pornography feeds an industry that causes untold psychological, emotional, and mental trauma to the child victims. As technology develops, and as use of the Internet to trade images of child pornography becomes increasingly widespread, more and more permanent records of child abuse are created and disseminated around the world, allowing for the continued victimization of the child depicted…. Defendant’s actions contributed to the demand for these horrific images of abuse. Every participant in the chain--producer, distributor, consumer--sustains the market for these images, and each victim, whether identified or not, suffers not only when an image of him or her is created, but each and every time an image of him or her is viewed.”
The case was investigated by ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with assistance from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS).
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Marci Ellsworth and Justin Arnold.
Press contact for the U.S. Attorney’s Office is Emily Langlie at (206) 553-4110 or [email protected].Wide Ranging Drug Trafficking Conspiracy DismantledRead the Press Release
A drug trafficking organization that distributed large amounts of methamphetamine and heroin from Mexico to Washington State was dismantled today with more than a dozen arrests, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. The criminal organization spanned a large area of the state with operations ranging from Everett to Vancouver, Washington and from Aberdeen on the coast to the Tri-Cities in Eastern Washington. Over the course of the investigation law enforcement has seized more than 56 pounds of heroin and more than eight pounds of highly pure methamphetamine.
“This case exemplifies the drug trafficking we see in Western Washington from Mexico based crime groups. These criminal groups are bringing in heroin, meth and cocaine and poisoning our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “We must stop the flow of these drugs, while also working to reduce demand. Too many families and communities are being irrevocably damaged by addiction.”
According to records filed in the case, using court authorized wire taps, law enforcement intercepted hundreds if not thousands of drug trafficking related phone calls and text messages between September 2012 and the present. The investigation began in October 2011, and identified members of the criminal organization smuggling drugs from Mexico across the border into Texas and California, and then north to Western Washington. In two notable seizures earlier this year, law enforcement found two kilograms of suspected crystal methamphetamine that was hidden in paint cans in the back of a truck stopped on Interstate 84 in Oregon. A second stop in Aberdeen, Washington resulted in the seizure of more than 53 pounds of heroin. During a search of the vehicle, investigators located an access panel in the rear cargo area of the vehicle that enabled investigators to access the gas tank. Inside of the gas tank, investigators located and removed the suspected heroin. Each package of heroin was covered in mustard and red pepper, which is one method used by drug traffickers in an attempt to mask the smell of the heroin from drug detection canines.
The grand jury has indicted these defendants:
Antonio Zuniga-Barajas, 29 of Kennewick, Washington
Javier Zuniga-Ochoa, 50, Kennewick, Washington
Hector M. Hernandez-Hernandez, 36, of Vancouver, Washington
Enrique Orozco-Rojas, 37, Kennewick, Washington
Pedro Barragan-Valdovinos, 39, of Pasco, Washington
Braulio Zuniga-Cervantes, 30, of Kent, Washington
Jose Manuel Pardo-Martinez, 32, of Aberdeen, Washington
Esgardo Daniel Martinez-Pizano, 18, of Aberdeen, Washington
Victor Carmona-Tapia, 28, of Everett, Washington
Omar Valencia-Barajas, 24, of Everett, Washington
Jose Trinidad Cuevas-Mendoza, 32, of Monroe, Washington
Alberto Bernal-Rodriguez, 43, of Vancouver, Washington
Omar Huerta-Garcia, 29, of Pasco, Washington“Drug trafficking organizations have one priority: financial wealth through addiction,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Matthew G. Barnes. “Seizures of heroin are on the rise in the Pacific Northwest. This investigation alone prevented 4 million user doses of heroin from hitting our streets, ruining lives and giving drug dealers over $1 million dollars in profits. The DEA and our law enforcement partners will continue to have an unwavering focus on keeping our communities safe.”
Today 14 different locations and multiple vehicles were searched state wide. One additional person was arrested by criminal complaint. Law enforcement seized two pounds of crystal methamphetamine, heroin, two weapons, six vehicles and over $20,000 in cash.
The defendants appeared in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:30 today.
If convicted the defendants face a mandatory minimum ten years in prison because of the quantity of drugs involved. The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This was an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, providing supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved.
This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration with significant investigative contributions from the following agencies: ICE - Homeland Security Investigations, South Snohomish County Narcotics Task Force, King County Sheriff’s Office, Grays Harbor Drug Task Force, Seattle Police Department, Port of Seattle, Tri-Cities Metro Drug Task Force, and Washington State Patrol.The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeffrey Backhus and Sarah Vogel.
For images associated with the drug seizures please contact Jodie Underwood, DEA Public Affairs Officer at 206-553-1162 or [email protected]
Press contact for the U.S. Attorney’s Office on March 14, 2013 is Thomas Bates at (206) 553-7970 or [email protected]. After March 14, 2013, press contact is [email protected].U.S. Attorney Durkan Testifies Before House Judiciary Subcommittee Regarding Cybercrime ProsecutionsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan testified today on behalf of the U.S. Justice Department in Washington, D.C before the U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations. The topic of the hearing was “Investigating and Prosecuting 21st Century Cyber Threats.” U.S. Attorney Durkan is Chair of the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee, Subcommittee on Cybercrime and Intellectual Property Enforcement. U.S. Attorney Durkan's testimony is available here.
Kelso Resident Sentenced to Prison for Gun and Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
A Kelso, Washington resident who was arrested as he left a motel room containing four firearms, while carrying four bags of heroin for distribution, was sentenced to seven years in prison, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. ALLEN MARSTON, 35, has prior convictions for drug distribution, domestic violence assault and illegal weapons possession so he is barred from possessing firearms. U.S. District Judge Robert J. Bryan imposed three years of supervised release following the prison term.
According to records filed in the case, the Cowlitz Wahkiakum Narcotics Task Force (CWNTF) served a court-authorized search warrant on MARSTON’s motel room in Kelso on May 16, 2012. MARSTON was stopped by police as he left the motel. In his pockets, law enforcement found four bags containing more than 41 grams of heroin. A search of the motel room turned up four firearms including an AMT .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol, a Russian SKS 7.62 caliber semi-automatic rifle, a Kel Tec .223 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Ruger .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol. One of the firearms had been reported stolen. Law enforcement also found scales, packaging material, a grinder, spoons, prescription pills, hypodermic needles, and other drug paraphernalia in the motel room.
In their request for an 87-month sentence, prosecutors wrote to the court that a significant sentence, with a drug treatment component, is important to protect the public. “Marston’s drug problem is not an excuse for his continued, serious, and dangerous criminal conduct in this case, nor for his own spreading of the poison that is heroin in order to financially support his own habit. Marston’s possession of firearms at the same time he was trafficking in heroin … demonstrates a serious and very real potential for more trouble in the future,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo.
The case was investigated by the Cowlitz Wahkiakum Narcotics Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gregory A. Gruber.
Owner of Non-Profit “Club” Charged with Illegal Distribution of Prescription NarcoticsRead the Press Release
The owner of a South Seattle non-profit “club” that hosted Alcoholics Anonymous meetings was arrested last night for illegal distribution of oxycodone, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. The investigation, initiated by the Seattle Police Department, revealed that the Nomadian Community Resource Center (NCRC) on South Orcas Street in Seattle was a hub for prescription drug dealing. MICHAEL MARTIN SHEPARD, 64, was arrested last night and will appear this afternoon at 2:30 in U.S. District Court in Seattle.
According to the criminal complaint filed in the case, in November 2012, a concerned citizen reported to Seattle Police that illegal drug sales were occurring in the Nomadian Community Resource Center. The complaint alleges that SHEPARD would only deal drugs to those who became a “member” of the NCRC in an attempt to evade detection by law enforcement. On five different occasions in January and February 2013, SHEPARD sold prescription drugs to a person working with law enforcement. Some of the sales occurred while being monitored or personally witnessed by undercover officers from the Seattle Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration. The sales occurred both before and after the NCRC hosted sanctioned AA meetings for addicts and alcoholics. Further investigation revealed that SHEPARD was obtaining the pills, in some instances, by purchasing prescriptions from those who had been prescribed the medication.
SHEPARD was taken into custody without incident by the Seattle Police Department and DEA. Numerous prescription narcotics and two firearms were seized at the NCRC.
Distribution of Oxycodone is punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment and a $1 million fine. The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Seattle Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The case is being prosecuted by Executive Assistant United States Attorney Thomas Bates.
Pierce County Man Sentenced to 72 Months in Prison for Interstate Prostitution and Money Laundering Conspiracies, and Tax FraudRead the Press Release
A Milton, Washington man who owned a Federal Way Korean bar where Korean National women were promoted for prostitution was sentenced today to 72 months in prison and five years of supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. CHANG YOUNG KIM, 59, was also ordered to pay $112,050 in restitution and over $1.6 million in back taxes and penalties to the Internal Revenue Service. KIM pleaded guilty in November 2012 to conspiracy to transport individuals for prostitution, conspiracy to engage in money laundering, bribery of a public official and tax evasion. KIM owned the Blue Moon Korean bar business in Federal Way which utilized Korean National women working illegally as ‘bar girls’ and prostitutes. KIM was indicted in three separate criminal schemes, some related to the club, and others to fraudulent business dealings. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Ronald B. Leighton said to the defendant, “you were a one-man criminal enterprise . . . [and] the most instrumental of everyone on a host of fronts.”
During 2010 and 2011, KIM owned the Blue Moon using ‘madam’ Miyoung Roberts, 42, of Auburn, Washington to recruit and manage more than two dozen “bar girls” and arranging their transportation from Korea to the U.S. KIM and his co-defendants arranged apartments for the women to live in and supervised some of the women’s prostitution activities. During the undercover investigation by law enforcement, KIM offered and paid $15,000 to a Washington State Liquor Control Board investigator believing the investigator was corrupt and that he was getting advance warning of inspections. The investigator was reporting the bribes as part of the undercover investigation.
In a separate scheme, KIM convinced two clients of his real estate company, Royal Realty, to invest $400,000 in the purchase of a Cle Elum, Washington motel. However there was no deal to purchase the property and KIM and two co-conspirators used the money for their own expenses. Finally, KIM attempted to evade more than $1.6 million in income taxes by failing to report income and by putting assets in other people’s names.
In asking for a significant sentence prosecutors wrote to the court that KIM “has spent a good part of his adult life steeped in fraud and deception. ….In order to commit these crimes, the defendant was willing to use his family members to further his personal objectives, causing them to place themselves in financial and legal jeopardy. He was willing to violate the law through bribery….. It is as though the defendant had no limits as to how far he would go to lie, cheat, and steal.”
“Kim operated a sex club a few blocks away from homes and schools, degrading the quality of life in the community as well as the women involved,” said Brad Bench, special agent in charge of HSI Seattle. “HSI will continue to work closely with its law enforcement partners to attack and dismantle these kinds of enterprises that prey on the vulnerable and often bring other criminal activity into the area.”
“Our communities deserve better than to have human trafficking going on in them,” said Kenneth J. Hines, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in the Pacific Northwest. “IRS Special Agents bring their unique skills in conducting financial investigations, ranging from tax evasion to money laundering, to the team of law enforcement professionals working to erase this type of crime from our region.”
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB), the Federal Way Police Department, Lakewood Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ye-Ting Woo.
Everett Woman who was Key Player in Mexico Based Drug Distribution Ring Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
An Everett resident, who was deeply involved in a conspiracy to distribute drugs from Mexico and obtain guns to take back across the border was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to five years in prison and four years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. During the 2012 investigation, MICALIA VALENZUELA, 32, was captured on court authorized wiretaps discussing drug distribution, obtaining weapons and was reported to advocate violence against targets in Mexico. VALENZUELA, who split her time between Mexico and Everett during the course of the investigation, was arrested March 29, 2012. She was indicted along with 34 other members of the drug trafficking ring including her father and other relatives. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik recommended that VALENZUELA get drug treatment while incarcerated.
According to records filed in the case, during the investigation, agents seized a significant quantity of heroin, methamphetamine, and firearms, including military-style assault rifles and sniper rifles which were bound for Mexico. VALENZUELA was actively involved in the distribution of the drugs and discussing the weapons the group was trying to obtain to smuggle back to Mexico. When she was arrested at her apartment investigators found approximately an ounce of heroin, together with smaller amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin; a loaded revolver and ammunition; body armor; and a “shopping list” of firearms, including AK-47s and AR-15 style assault rifles. In her plea agreement VALENZUELA admits distributing heroin in November 2011. VALENZUELA served the drug trafficking organization as a drug courier.
“The same cartels responsible for violence in Mexico have infiltrated Washington communities,” said Brad Bench, special agent in charge of HSI Seattle. “These are people who resort to violence to protect their criminal enterprise. HSI is focused on rooting these operatives out of our communities by disrupting every level of their illicit business.”
Ten members of the conspiracy have pleaded guilty. Trial for the other defendants is scheduled for May 6, 2013.
The case was investigated by the ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Snohomish Police Department, Washington State Patrol, the Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force and the Seattle Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Vince Lombardi, Jeffrey Backhus and J. Tate London.
Four Convicted in ‘Sovereign Citizen’ InvestigationRead the Press Release
An investigation into the criminal conduct of members of the so-called ‘Sovereign Citizen’ movement has resulted in four defendants being convicted by juries in U.S. District Court in Tacoma, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. The jury deliberated for five hours before convicting RAYMOND LEO JARLIK BELL and UTE CHRISTINE JARLIK BELL of four counts of filing false, fictitious and fraudulent claims. RAYMOND LEO JARLIK BELL was also convicted of 15 counts of assisting in filing false tax returns, three counts of mail fraud, and one count of obstruction of justice. Judge Ronald B. Leighton scheduled sentencing for the couple from Yelm, Washington on June 14, 2013.
Just last week, two other co-conspirators in a related case were convicted of federal charges for their criminal conduct. KENNETH WAYNE LEAMING, 57, of Spanaway, Washington, was convicted of three counts of filing false liens against federal officials, and one count of harboring federal fugitives and being a felon in possession of firearms. His co-conspirator, former Tacoma resident DAVID CARROLL STEPHENSON, was convicted of a single count of filing false liens against a federal official.
“The right to criticize our government is one of the most cherished rights. But this liberty does not include the right to commit crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “These defendants repeatedly broke the law with frauds aimed at taxpayers and public servants. We are grateful the jury held them accountable for their actions.”
According to records filed in the case, law enforcement was investigating an on-going tax fraud scheme involving the JARLIK BELLs when LEAMING and STEPHENSON’s criminal conduct was uncovered. Both men already had federal criminal convictions. The JARLIK BELL investigation centered on the filing of false tax returns using a scheme known as OID fraud; RAYMOND LEO JARLIK BELL advised and assisted others in using the scheme. In 2006, the BELLs obtained a tax refund in excess of $30,000 using the scheme. Six others who were advised by JARLIK BELL also filed for and received fraudulent refunds they did not deserve. One woman received a tax refund of more than $590,000.
“There are people out there peddling ideas that are the modern equivalent of snake oil. The notion that there is a secret way to get the government to pay you money that you are not entitled to is just plain wrong. Our tax laws are public record and this conviction by jury proves that people who file false claims and sell that idea to others will be held accountable for their deceit,” said Kenneth J. Hines, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in the Pacific Northwest.
Materials found in a search of the JARLIK BELL home implicated LEAMING in separate criminal conduct. When investigators with a warrant searched LEAMING’s Spanaway home on November 21, 2011, they found six firearms. LEAMING was prohibited from possessing firearms because of a prior felony conviction of operating an aircraft without a pilot’s license. Additionally, investigators determined that two wanted federal fugitives from Arkansas had been living with LEAMING in his home. Finally, the search revealed that LEAMING and STEPHENSON, who was an inmate at the time in an Arizona federal prison, had been conspiring to file liens against various federal officials including the Arizona prison warden and the head of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Members of the Sovereign Citizen movement profess a belief that both state and federal government entities are illegitimate. Members of this group often engaged in so-called “freedom driving,” i.e., driving about without state-required licenses, either for their vehicles or themselves. When contacted by local law enforcement, members of the group often bombard local officials (from the officer, to local judges, to mayors and other members of local government) with frivolous liens, false claims, and sometimes threats of violence. Many members of this same group had previously come to the attention of federal law enforcement for engaging in various fraudulent tax schemes, wire fraud schemes, and (occasionally) inappropriate communications with various members of federal law enforcement and the judiciary.
Two other defendants active in the Sovereign Citizen movement have already been sentenced to prison for their criminal conduct. David Russell Myrland was sentenced in 2011 to 40 months in prison for making threats against elected officials in Kirkland, Washington. And in 2012 Timothy Garrison was sentenced to 42 months in prison for assisting in the filing of false tax returns.
The cases were investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the FBI, ATF, the Federal Protective Service and the U.S. Marshal Service.
The cases were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Vince Lombardi, Jill Otake, Thomas Woods and Matthew Diggs.
Department of Justice Files its Notice of Approval of the Monitoring PlanRead the Press Release
This afternoon, the Department of Justice filed its “Notice of Approval of the Monitoring Plan for the First Year” with the U.S. District Court. The Notice of Approval states:
The Monitor submitted a draft of the Monitoring Plan to the Parties on February 1, 2013. From February 25 to 28, 2013, the Monitor, the City of Seattle, and the Department of Justice engaged in lengthy and productive discussions about the draft Monitoring Plan. The Monitoring Plan submitted to the Court reflects the input of both Parties during those discussions, and it balances the competing interests of certainty and flexibility.
As the Parties move forward with the first year of implementation of the Settlement Agreement, the Monitoring Plan will provide guidance to the Parties and create clear expectations for the people of Seattle. As such, the Monitoring Plan complies with the requirements of the Settlement Agreement, does not impose new obligations on the parties, and avoids unnecessary delays while still providing an opportunity for collaborative implementation. In addition, the Monitor’s current and proposed work are in line with the budget submitted to and approved by the Parties and the Court in November 2012.
Department of Justice Statement on Seattle Police Department Monitoring PlanRead the Press Release
After extensive and productive conversations with the parties and working hundreds of hours with members of the Seattle Police Department, the Monitor has submitted a plan that provides clear guidance and certainty for SPD’s reform efforts. The Monitoring Plan details the requirements and deadlines for new policies and training, the Monitor’s role in assuring compliance under the Settlement Agreement, and, ultimately, what success looks like.
The Monitor has proposed a process for the development of policies and training that allows for significant collaboration among the parties and for critical community input. The community must have faith and confidence that the reforms Seattle agreed to are implemented fully, efficiently, and effectively.
In an effort to avoid unnecessary distractions or delay, the Department of Justice will expedite its final review of the Monitoring Plan and anticipates filing its notice of approval with the Court soon.
Operators of Multi-State Prostitution Ring using Illegal Asian Immigrants Indicted for Conspiracy and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Six people who operated a web of apartments in four States used as brothels were indicted last week for conspiracy to transport individuals for prostitution, conspiracy to use a communications facility to promote prostitution and conspiracy to engage in money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. The indictment was returned following an undercover investigation involving the King County Sheriff’s Office, the Kirkland Police Department, the Bellevue Police Department, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The conspirators advertised Asian women for ‘massage services’ on backpage.com, and leased apartments in Bellevue and Kirkland, Scottsdale, Arizona, Chicago, Illinois, and Falls Church/Tysons Corner, Virginia. Some of the defendants will appear in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:30 p.m. today.
“These defendants exploited vulnerable women immigrants to enrich themselves,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “We will work with our partners to stop this exploitation. I commend the member of our community who alerted law enforcement. I also applaud the good work of the King County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bellevue and Kirkland Police Departments for their work with ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations on this case.”
According to the indictment and other records filed in the case, law enforcement began investigating reports of apparent prostitution activity at a Kirkland apartment complex. The investigation revealed that six people were working together running a prostitution business utilizing apartments they rented in four different states, and ads placed on backpage.com. Many of the women who provided sexual services were in the U.S. illegally, having overstayed their visas. The women owed debts of as much as $60,000 to the leader of the prostitution ring, for providing them with the employment opportunities in the U.S. Most of the women were recruited in Thailand and came to the U.S. knowing they would be sex workers to pay off their debt. The conspirators used multiple cell phones to place the ads, and one of the conspirators worked as the “operator,” lining up appointments for the women. Those indicted today include:
UNRUEAN ABOULAFIA, 34, of Bellevue is the leader of the scheme. A Thai national, she was in the U.S. illegally. She allegedly recruited the women from Thailand, and advertised their services on backpage.com. The women paid her their smuggling debt.
THANYATHORN MOHR, 35, of Bellevue is a Thai National who was legally in the U.S. She allegedly was the “operator” for the women, responding to the calls generated by the backpage.com ads, scheduling appointments and directing clients to the apartments.
JEFF CHU, 48, a U.S. citizen living in Bellevue, allegedly leased various apartments for the group in Bellevue and in Illinois, in both his name and the name of his ex-wife. He collected some of the proceeds for the conspiracy and laundered the money through various bank accounts.
XINPING ZHANG, 39, a Chinese National legally in the U.S. and CHU’s ex-wife. She allegedly rented various apartments for the conspirators, collected money and laundered funds.
EDWARD FLANIGAN, 57 of Federal Way, Washington, allegedly rented apartments for the prostitution activities in Washington and Arizona.
STEVEN ABOULAFIA, 59, a U.S. Citizen of Henderson, Nevada, and the ex-husband of the ring leader, allegedly leased apartments in Washington and Virginia and collected prostitution proceeds.
“This investigation has revealed a criminal enterprise that spans at least four states and affects multiple residential neighborhoods,” said Brad Bench, special agent in charge of HSI Seattle. “Only through multi-agency cooperative investigations can law enforcement be most effective at attacking and dismantling these organizations that prey on the vulnerable and often bring other criminal activity into our area.”
“This case is more than prostitution, money laundering, and conspiracy. It is about human trafficking,” said King County Sheriff John Urquhart. “The Sheriff’s Office is committed to fighting human trafficking and holding responsible those who engage in this despicable activity.”
“The Bellevue Police Department is committed to proactively targeting all forms of human trafficking with our law enforcement partners on all levels (local, county, state, and federal). Bellevue police condemns the financial and physical exploitation of these victims and the suspects who manage these operations,” said Bellevue Police Investigations Captain Steve Lynch.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Conspiracy to transport individuals for prostitution and conspiracy to use a communications facility to promote prostitution are each punishable by up to five years in prison, and conspiracy to engage in money laundering is punishable by up to twenty years in prison.The case is being investigated by the King County Sheriff’s Office; HSI Seattle, Chicago, and Washington, DC; the Bellevue Police Department; and the Kirkland Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ye-Ting Woo.
Repeat Offender Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Gun and Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
A Tacoma man who continued to deal drugs while illegally armed with a handgun even after his first federal arrest, was sentenced today to six years in prison and five years of supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. DAVID KUNTZ, 28, was arrested twice over a five month period with firearms while involved in drug trafficking. A convicted felon, KUNTZ is prohibited from possessing firearms. KUNTZ pleaded guilty in October 2012 to being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone, and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Ronald B. Leighton told him, “this conduct is corrosive in the community…. You are responsible for that.”
According to records filed in the case, KUNTZ’s first arrest in this case occurred in June 2011 in the McDonald’s parking lot on South Tacoma Way and Highway 512. KUNTZ arrived at a drug deal set up by a person working with law enforcement. KUNTZ was driving in a truck with another person. The driver of the truck tried to flee, crashing into vehicles parked in the lot. At the time of the arrest KUNTZ was in possession of a Ruger semi-automatic pistol and $7,800 in cash that he admitted was for the drug buy. KUNTZ was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of five felony drug convictions in Pierce County Superior Court.
Following the June 2011 arrest, KUNTZ was again contacted by law enforcement while involved in drug trafficking. On November 2, 2011, Lakewood Police stopped the car in which KUNTZ was riding. KUNTZ was sitting on a firearm, a 9mm Smith and Wesson, and had more than 100 oxycodone pills in his possession. He also had more than $2100 in cash.
The case was investigated by the South Sound Gang Task Force and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gregory A. Gruber.
Former Tacoma Banker Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Defrauding Northwest Commercial BankRead the Press Release
A former Tacoma, Washington banker who fraudulently raided the line of credit belonging to a non-profit organization, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to four years in prison, five years of supervised release and $917,204 in restitution, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. JEFFREY R. GOODELL, 32, lied about his education to get a job at Northwest Commercial Bank, and then used his position as a loan officer to fund cash disbursements to friends and associates, and potential bank customers, using the bank accounts and line of credit of the Tacoma Rescue Mission. In all, between 2009 and 2010, GOODELL disbursed nearly $1.3 million from the bank by using the Tacoma Rescue Mission bank accounts and line of credit. U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle ordered GOODELL into custody.
According to records filed in the case, GOODELL repeatedly used the line of credit associated with the Tacoma Rescue Mission, and bank accounts held by the non-profit to make unauthorized loans. When a bank executive grew suspicious, he had a friend impersonate the executive director of the organization on the phone to say the transactions were authorized. GOODELL used phony emails to further his fraud by making it appear an executive with the non-profit Rescue Mission had authorized the transactions. When executives first noticed depletions in their account, GOODELL sent them a new, falsified statement, saying the previous one was in error. At one point, to keep the fraud going, GOODELL shaved his head and claimed he had been diagnosed with cancer and therefore needed to save up his annual leave. In truth, GOODELL did not want to take leave or be away from the bank because of the risk his scheme would be uncovered. GOODELL was fired by the bank in December 2010.
In asking for a significant sentence prosecutors wrote that for more than six months, GOODELL pursued a fraud against the bank “with a vengeance. Not only did he methodically drain one TRM account after another, after he had nearly drained all of its accounts, he fraudulently used the identity of a TRM officer to open yet another account. Even after being confronted by (a TRM executive), Goodell brazenly continued the fraud the day after he assuaged (the executive’s) concern by sending her a fraudulent account statement.”
The case was investigated by the FBI and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arlen Storm.
Korean ‘Salon’ Operator Sentenced to Prison for Immigration Fraud ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
A Korean National who fraudulently gained U.S. Citizenship in a fake marriage, was sentenced today to two years in prison and three years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Commit Immigration Fraud, Conspiracy to Harbor, Transport, and Induce Illegal Aliens and Attempt to Commit Immigration Fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. MIYOUNG ROBERTS, 42, of Auburn, Washington, operated the Blue Moon bar in Federal Way. In her supervisory role, ROBERTS arranged for more than two dozen Korean women to travel to and around the U.S. to work at various clubs, and she counseled them on how to avoid detection by immigration authorities. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Ronald B. Leighton stated that ROBERTS’ conduct was “degrading” and “shameful.”
Between 2009 and 2012, ROBERTS worked first as an ‘Assistant Madam’ and later a ‘Madam,’ at the Blue Moon, hiring the women who served as “bar girls” and arranging their transportation from Korea to the U.S. ROBERTS also arranged apartments for the women to live in and supervised some of the women’s prostitution activities. ROBERTS herself entered into a fraudulent marriage to obtain a green card in the U.S. and attempted to arrange a fraudulent marriage for another co-conspirator. The groom she recruited was actually an agent working undercover on the case.
ROBERTS did not limit her activities to the areas of King and Pierce Counties, but was prominent in supplying women to similar Korean bar businesses across the country. “The defendant was involved in criminal activity for over three years, and even when not employed at the Blue Moon, she was actively recruiting and coordinating the travel of illegal Korean National women to work at various room salon [bar] businesses in New York, New Jersey, Texas, and Colorado. ….Through such recruitment, the defendant was able to secure a job for herself at any one of these room salons around the country, and earned a reputation for being a successful room salon madam. ….Through her work as a room salon madam, the defendant induced numerous Korean women to unlawfully enter and stay in the United States to work at various room salons in different cities,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo.
The owner of the Blue Moon salon, Chang Kim, will be sentenced next month.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB), the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) and the FBI.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ye-Ting Woo and Matthew Thomas.
Former Longview Club Owner Sentenced to Prison for Meth DealingRead the Press Release
The former owner of a Longview nightclub and long-stay hotel, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to five years in prison and five years of supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. CHRISTOPHER LONNIE REID, 52, pleaded guilty in October 2012 to distribution of methamphetamine. REID was charged federally in 2011 following an undercover investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Narcotics Task Force. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Ronald B. Leighton said, “this crime (methamphetamine distribution) destroys the fabric of a community brick by brick.”
According to records filed in the case on October 22, 2010 and again on October 27, 2010 REID distributed methamphetamine to a person working with law enforcement.
In their sentencing memo, prosecutors noted that REID was distributing drugs at the same time he was making money by renting rooms to drug addicts. “Reid has owned a residential hotel-type building in Longview for the past several years. Reid’s business, the Smallwood Hotel, rented small rooms. The hotel had the reputation in the community of housing drug addicts,… Given Reid’s drug dealing, the fact that he ran a hotel for drug addicts is an aggravating factor that this Court should consider when sentencing Reid,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo.
The case was investigated by the DEA and the Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Narcotics Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brian Werner.
Vice President Biden and Attorney General Holder Honor 18 Public Safety Officers with Medal of ValorRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Vice President Joe Biden and Attorney General Eric Holder today awarded the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor to 18 public safety officers who exhibited exceptional courage in saving and protecting others and whose heroic actions were above and beyond the call of duty.
“This year’s Medal of Valor recipients have fearlessly responded to desperate cries for help – courageously risking their own lives to secure innocent victims, protect fellow officers, and end deadly assaults,” said Attorney General Eric Holder. “These extraordinary public servants have distinguished themselves by going above and beyond the call of duty. And today, I am honored to join Vice President Biden in bestowing one of our nation’s most prestigious decorations on each of these heroes.”
The Medal of Valor, authorized by the Public Safety Medal of Valor Act of 2001, is awarded by the President of the United States to public safety officers cited by the Attorney General. Public safety officers are nominated by the chiefs or directors of their employing agencies and recommended by the Medal of Valor Review Board. The Attorney General has designated the department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP) to serve as the federal point of contact for the Medal of Valor initiative. OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), led by Director Denise E. O’Donnell, administers the Medal of Valor initiative.
“We recognize 18 extraordinary individuals for their quick thinking, selflessness and exceptional courage,” said Office of Justice Program Acting Assistant Attorney General Mary Lou Leary. “They are law enforcement, corrections officers, and firefighters who went beyond the call of duty to risk – and in some cases, to give – their lives for their fellow citizens and colleagues.”
Today’s 18 recipients of the Medal of Valor are: Officer Julie Olson, Maplewood Police Department, Minn.; Officer Reeshemah Taylor, Osceola County Corrections Department, Fla.; Wildlife Officer Michael Neal, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission; Officer Sean Haller and Officer Rafael Rivera, California Highway Patrol; Trooper Robert Lombardo and fallen Trooper Joshua Miller, Pennsylvania State Police; Firefighter Peter Demontreux, New York City Fire Department; Firefighter Hope Scott and Captain William Reynolds, Virginia Beach Fire Department, Va.; Deputy Sheriff Krista McDonald, Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office, Wash.; Officers Timothy McClintick, Max McDonald, Douglas Weaver, Sergeant Karl Lounge Jr. and fallen Sergeant Thomas Baitinger, St. Petersburg Police Department, Fla.; and fallen Deputies William Stiltner and Cameron Justus, Buchanan County Sheriff's Office, Va.
“The Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor is the highest national award for valor awarded to a public safety officer,” said Bureau of Justice Assistance Director, Denise E. O’Donnell. “BJA is proud to administer a program which serves to recognize the exceptionally brave actions of individuals who have given selflessly in order to protect citizens and communities throughout our nation.”
Including today’s awardees, a total of 78 medals have been presented since the first recipients were honored in 2003. More information about the award and today’s recipients, the Medal of Valor Review Board members, and the nomination process is on the OJP website at: www.ojp.usdoj.gov/medalofvalor.
Lynnwood Couple Sentenced for Defrauding Programs Designed to Help the NeedyRead the Press Release
A Lynnwood, Washington couple who defrauded state and federal programs designed to assist the needy were sentenced to incarceration and home confinement today for multiple counts of mail fraud and theft of government funds. IGOR MEYER, 47, was sentenced to 30 days in prison, six months of home detention and three years of supervised release. His wife, ZOYA MUSHAILOVA, 35, was also sentenced to 30 days in prison, six months of home detention and three years of supervised release. The couple had a household income of approximately $100,000 and owned their own home. However, they represented to caseworkers that MEYER was a single father of four with income of less than $12,000 per year, allowing him to collect housing and other government benefits. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik said the fraud scheme “has a real corrosive impact on society… both in the attitude of taxpayers and in denying benefits to people who really need them.”
The couple was indicted in October 2011, and the two were convicted following a jury trial in October 2012. Evidence at trial revealed they schemed to defraud programs for the needy of more than $70,000 over three years. The couple purchased a Lynnwood condominium in MUSHAILOVA’s name and they used a real estate management company to ‘rent’ it to MEYER claiming he was a former in-law of MUSHAILOVA. MEYER applied for both food and Social Security benefits as a single father of four, claiming the family had no income. MUSHAILOVA not only owned the Lynnwood condo, she also owned a rental property in Arizona, making the family ineligible for aid. Far from being needy, the couple drove luxury cars, and took cross country and international vacations. On the day they returned from one such vacation to New York and Mount Rushmore, MEYER submitted a declaration to the housing program claiming MUSHAILOVA was his “ex-wife” and he did not know where she lived.
In asking for prison time, prosecutors noted that the average time on the waiting list for housing assistance in Snohomish County is six years. “Defendants exploited social programs intended for the poor. By fraudulently collecting housing benefits they did not need, they denied truly needy families the opportunity to obtain decent housing. They stole funds intended to provide food, cash and medical assistance to the poor. In short, defendants enriched themselves by victimizing the most vulnerable members of the community,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo.
The case was investigated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General (HUD-OIG), the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General (SSA-OIG) and the Department of Social and Health Services Office of Fraud and Accountability.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kate Vaughan and Special Assistant United States Attorney Seth Wilkinson. Mr. Wilkinson is an attorney with the Social Security Administration specially designated to prosecute fraud cases in federal court.
Lummi Tribal Member Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Sexually Molesting Young ChildrenRead the Press Release
A 42-year-old Whatcom County resident was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 14 years in prison and five years of supervised release for two counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. DAVID ALLEN JAMES is a Lummi Tribal member, and the crimes occurred on Lummi Tribal land so the case was prosecuted federally. JAMES was indicted in May 2012 and pleaded guilty in October 2012. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik said, “We have come a long way in recognizing how devastating sexual abuse is to children and how it repeats itself through generations.”
According to records filed in the case, JAMES admitted that between April 2010 and April 2012 he sexually assaulted two young children who were in his care. The children, presently ages 7 and 8, disclosed the abuse and the Lummi Police Department and the FBI investigated.
Speaking to the court JAMES said he hopes to use his time behind bars to get help to understand why he molested the children. JAMES claims that he too was molested as a child.
Judge Lasnik urged JAMES’ family to take a leadership role in bringing sexual abuse out of the shadows in their community saying it was “hurting generation after generation of children. Step up and stop this cycle of sexual abuse.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Brown.
Bonney Lake Resident Sentenced to Prison for $700,000+ Embezzlement from Hotel GroupRead the Press Release
The former controller of a hotel group based in Tacoma, Washington was sentenced today to 24 months in prison and three years of supervised release for six counts of wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. From 2007 to 2011, HUGO LINGAT CAINGAT, JR., 59, of Bonney Lake, Washington, was employed as a controller at Aspen Lodging Group, LLC (ALG). The company owns several hotels in the United States including Hotel Murano in Tacoma. From March 2010 to December 2011, CAINGAT diverted more than $700,000 in income from the hotel group into a dormant bank account. Them he used that account to pay his bills, including significant gambling bills. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle said, “the defendant was a man of skill and aptitude who gained the trust of his employer and then abused it.”
According to records filed in the case, CAINGAT forged documents and signatures to execute his scheme. He created duplicate invoices for inter-company payments totaling nearly $600,000, and eventually routed these payments into the dormant account. From the dormant accounts the money went to pay his credit card bills. CAINGAT was fired by the hotel group in December 2011 when the theft was discovered. The case was ultimately referred to the FBI. When agents interviewed CAINGAT at his home in May 2012, he indicated he wished to provide information on the scheme. Instead, CAINGAT purchased a one way ticket to the Philippines. CAINGAT was indicted by the grand jury in July 2012, and the process of extraditing CAINGAT from the Philippines had begun when he voluntarily returned to Washington State. CAINGAT pleaded guilty in October 2012.
In asking for a sentence of nearly three years, prosecutors noted that the scheme was sophisticated and lasted nearly two years. “The defendant committed his embezzlement through multiple sub-schemes, which involved pre-configuring of a dormant account to pay his bills, transferring funds through multiple accounts, creating false inter-company payments, and forging another employee’s signature,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo.
CAINGAT was ordered to pay $750,550 in restitution. That amount includes $50,000 the company spent investigating the embezzlement.
The case was investigated by the FBI. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Diggs.
US Attorney Durkan Reports to the Community on Law Enforcement PrioritiesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan today issued her 2012 Annual Report on the activities and priorities of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington.
“Every person in our office is honored to serve the people of this region. We work hard to advance the safety of our nation, the security of our communities and the rights of victims of crime,” said U.S. Attorney Durkan. "In 2012, we made significant progress in many of our priority areas: terrorism, violent crime, cybercrime and protecting vulnerable communities from both financial crime and physical exploitation.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office also focused on stripping criminals of their profits, returning monies to taxpayers and victims. In 2012, the office recovered more than $40 million to compensate the victims of crime and to support the federal treasury and law enforcement activities. The office has discharged its mission in a manner that is fiscally responsible and adds value to the federal treasury. In 2012, the office saw significant collections of restitution for the victims of convicted predator Weldon Marc Gilbert, and we forfeited to the U.S. Treasury the proceeds of crime, including more than $5 million from an illegal internet gambling business.
The diverse Western District of Washington presents many challenges. Western Washington has urban areas and vast open lands, National Parks and National Forests. It is home to the largest military base west of the Rockies (Joint Base Lewis-McChord). The district shares a water and land border with Canada and has two of the ten busiest sea ports in the United States.
“Part of our work is to reach out to all communities and residents as we work to build a safe and secure America. I want to express my thanks to all who help keep Western Washington a safe and welcoming place to live, work and raise our children. My colleagues and I look forward to continuing to meet these challenges in 2013,” said U.S. Attorney Durkan.
You can read the full report by following this link.
Felon Sentenced to 5+ Years in Prison for Trafficking High Powered WeaponsRead the Press Release
A convicted felon who trafficked in multiple high powered firearms, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 66 months in prison and three years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Unlawfully Deal in Firearms and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. JOSHUA DAWSON, 21, is one of six Seattle area men, indicted in April 2012 following a firearms trafficking investigation. The men sold guns to a person working with law enforcement in the Renton, Washington area. At sentencing U.S. District Judge Richard A. Jones said, “You were directly involved in providing firearms that would hit the streets without any concern of where they would go or how they would be used.”
“Getting firearms out of the hands of felons and off our streets is one of our top priorities,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “I commend the creative and coordinated work by local and federal law enforcement to infiltrate this criminal gang that was trafficking the high powered weapons that fuel violence in our community.”
DAWSON was indicted following an undercover investigation involving the Seattle Police Department Gang Unit, the FBI Safe Streets Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). The firearms that were sold as part of the conspiracy were very dangerous weapons. They included handguns, shotguns, semi-automatic rifles with large capacity magazines and scopes, stolen firearms, and weapons tied to crimes of violence. When he pleaded guilty in June 2012, DAWSON admitted selling eight guns between January and March 2012: a Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver; a Mac 11 9mm pistol; an SKS 7.62 assault rifle; a Romarm/Cugir, 7.62 x 39mm caliber rifle; a DPMS, .223/5.56mm caliber rifle; an Olympic Arms, multi rifle with a silencer; a Weatherby, 7mm caliber rifle; and a Maadi, 7.62 x 39mm caliber rifle. In all in this operation, 25 guns were taken off the street, many of which were previously reported stolen. DAWSON has prior convictions for robbery and theft. When officers went to arrest him in April 2012, DAWSON fled in his car, crashing into multiple other vehicles. When he was taken into custody, officers located a loaded Kel-Tec model PF-9, 9mm pistol in the glove compartment of his car.
“I want to congratulate the dedicated agents, officers and detectives who worked this investigation,” said Kelvin Crenshaw, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Seattle Field Division. “Thanks to their efforts a convicted felon who chose to peddle high powered weapons on the streets of Seattle is now behind bars and no longer a threat. ATF is dedicated and resolute in the fight against violent crime and we will never rest in the pursuit of those who would threaten the safety and security of our communities.”
“As we did in this case, the FBI will continue to work hand-in-hand with our partners, sharing resources to target those who would facilitate putting dangerous weapons in the hands of criminals,” said FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Steven M. Dean. “This partnership is committed to reducing the drug- and gang-related violence in our communities.”
Prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo that “…those who possess and sell firearms illegally bear some of the responsibility for the resulting violence that occurs. The illegal sale of firearms only serves to flood the area with weapons that are difficult, if not impossible, to accurately track. Given the dangerousness that these weapons present, and the very real possibility that weapons sold illegally could subsequently be used in other crimes, trafficking in firearms presents unique risks.”
Five others were prosecuted as part of the case: Andre M. Conerly, 26, was sentenced to 96 months in prison; Daunte R. Williams, 29, was sentenced to 78 months in prison; James L. Henderson, 22, was sentenced to five years in prison; Alexander J. Olivio-Altheimer, 21, was sentenced to four years in prison; and Djuan O. Gardner, 28, was sentenced to 70 months in prison.
The case was jointly investigated by the FBI Seattle Safe Streets Task Force, the Seattle Police Department Gang Unit, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Brown.