Eastern District of Wisconsin
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
U.S. Department of Justice Confirms Federal Civil Rights Investigation into Shooting of Mr. Jacob BlakeRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Eric S. Dreiband, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice, confirmed this evening that, as indicated in a press conference held earlier today by Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul and Kenosha County District Attorney Michael D. Graveley, a federal investigation has been opened into the shooting of Jacob Blake by an officer of the Kenosha (Wisconsin) Police Department. The investigation will be conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in cooperation with the Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation and other state authorities, and will be overseen by prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Criminal Section of the Civil Rights Division. The federal investigation will run parallel to, and share information with, state authorities to the extent permissible under law.
Federal authorities are committed to investigating this matter as thoroughly and efficiently as possible. Along with Attorney General Kaul and District Attorney Graveley, United States Attorney Krueger and Assistant Attorney General Dreiband urged all members of the community to allow the investigation processes to develop all available evidence before rendering judgment. They also encouraged everyone to act peacefully and abide by the law.
Federal law enforcement is joined with state and local authorities to address further violence in Kenosha and beyond. Federal law imposes stiff penalties for arson, rioting, firearms offenses, and other violent crimes, which United States Attorney Krueger pledged to prosecute to the fullest extent possible.
If individuals have firsthand information to report regarding the shooting of Mr. Blake, they should contact FBI Milwaukee at (414) 276-4684.
For further information contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales (414) 297-1700.
Two Individuals Charged in 23-Count Indictment Alleging Prescription Drug Kickbacks, Health Care Fraud, and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that on August 25, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a twenty-three count indictment against David Guerrero (age: 41) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Alexander Shister (age: 51) of Mequon, Wisconsin.
The indictment charges Guerrero and Shister with paying and receiving illegal kickbacks relating to the provision of items and services payable by federal health care programs. Specifically, the indictment alleges that Shister, who owned several pharmacies in the Milwaukee area, paid kickbacks to Guerrero, who worked at two Milwaukee clinics, in exchange for Guerrero routing prescriptions for compounded pain cream medication to Shister’s pharmacies. Shister's pharmacies then sought and received reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid for filling these prescriptions. If convicted, the defendants face up to 5 years in prison for each count. The indictment also charges Guerrero with health care fraud, which carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison, and aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and the Wisconsin Department of Justice Medicaid Fraud Control and Elder Abuse Unit. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin Proctor and Michael Carter.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and are entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove them guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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For Additional Information Contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales 414-297-1700
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Cudahy Woman Sentenced to 90 Months in Federal Prison for Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that on August 24, 2020, Waheba Issa Dais (48) of Cudahy, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 90 months in prison and three years of supervised release following her conviction on one count of attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.
According to court records, Dais provided support to ISIS in 2018 in the form of expert advice and assistance. According to admissions made in connection with her plea, Dais used hacked Facebook accounts in order to support ISIS. Using these accounts, she pledged her allegiance to ISIS on numerous occasions, communicated with and encouraged other ISIS supporters who described their plans to conduct attacks, disseminated information about explosives and biological weapons, and attempted to recruit new members to ISIS’s cause. For example, Dais posted videos providing step-by-step instructions on how to make an explosive belt and TNT, and she provided a detailed recipe for the poison Ricin. Dais also maintained encrypted social-media channels, where she posted messages encouraging ISIS supporters who could not travel to ISIS-controlled lands to conduct terrorist attacks in their home countries. Through those encrypted channels, she also provided detailed information about explosives, guns, attack planning, and target selection.
“Dais not only personally pledged her allegiance to a terrorist organization but took steps designed to help others cause death and destruction around the world,” said United States Attorney Krueger. “I commend the agents, analysts, and attorneys who worked hard to bring Dais to justice.”
“The FBI’s number one priority is fighting terrorism. This case is a clear example of the influence a foreign terrorist organization such as ISIS, can have right here in Wisconsin. The significant sentencing underscores the serious consequences for those who choose to support terrorist groups and their plans to attack our citizens. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) is dedicated 24/7 to keeping all Americans safe.” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Hughes.
This conviction and sentence is the result of an extensive investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Milwaukee Field Office. The case was prosecuted by United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger, Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca Taibleson, and Trial Attorney Jennifer Burke of the National Security Division.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Attorney General William P. Barr Announces Updates on Operation Legend at Press Conference in Kansas City, MissouriRead the Press Release
Today, United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger joins the Attorney General William P. Barr in announcing updates on Operation Legend.
Since the operation’s launch, there have been more than 1,000 arrests, including defendants who have been charged in state and local courts. Of those arrests, approximately 207 defendants have been charged with federal crimes. These numbers exclude Indianapolis, whose operation was just announced last Friday. In addition, nearly 400 firearms have been seized by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Attorney General launched the operation on July 8, 2020, as a sustained, systematic and coordinated law enforcement initiative in which federal law enforcement agencies work in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime. The initiative is named in honor of four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed while he slept early in the morning of June 29 in Kansas City.
“As Attorney General Barr has said, the most basic duty of government is to protect the safety of our citizens,” remarked U.S. Attorney Krueger. “Operation Legend is already yielding results in Milwaukee and other cities. Working together with our state and local partners, this effort will enhance the safety of Milwaukee’s neighborhoods.”
The operation was expanded to Chicago and Albuquerque on July 22, 2020, to Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee on July 29, 2020, to St. Louis and Memphis on August 6, 2020, and to Indianapolis on August 14, 2020. A breakdown of the federal charges in each district, with the exception of Indianapolis, is below.
Kansas City, MO.
43 defendants have been charged with federal crimes outlined below, with some defendants charged with multiple offenses. In addition to the federal charges, the operation has led to the arrests of 17 state defendants on homicide charges.
- 20 defendants have been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm;
- 17 defendants have been charged with drug trafficking;
- Four defendants have been charged with being a drug user in possession of a firearm;
- Six defendants have been charged with being in possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking;
- Four defendants have been charged with being in possession of a firearm in furtherance of violent crime;
- One defendant has been charged with being a felon in possession of ammunition;
- Three defendants have been charged with armed robbery;
- One defendant has been charged with carjacking; and
- One defendant has been charged with arson.
Chicago, Ill.
61 defendants have been charged with federal crimes outlined below, with some defendants charged with multiple offenses.
- 34 defendants have been charged with firearms-related offenses;
- 26 defendants have been charged with narcotics-related offenses;
- One defendant has been charged with possession of machine gun;
- One defendant has been charged with illegally dealing firearms without a license;
- One defendant has been charged with the illegal sale of firearm to prohibited person; and
- One defendant has been charged with bank fraud.
Albuquerque, NM.
16 defendants have been charged with federal crimes outlined below, with some defendants charged with multiple offenses.
- Six defendants have been charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances;
- Four defendants have been charged with distribution of controlled substances;
- Six defendants have been charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance;
- Four defendants have been charged with being in possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking;
- Eight defendants have been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm;
- One defendant has been charged with being in possession of a stolen firearm;
- Two defendants have been charged with Hobbs Act violations;
- One defendant has been charged with carjacking; and
- One defendant has been charged with re-entry of a removed alien.
Cleveland, OH.
- 22 defendants have been charged with federal drug trafficking charges;
- Nine defendants have been charged with federal firearms violations; and
- One defendant had been charged with carjacking.
Detroit, MI.
22 defendants have been charged with federal offenses outlined below, with some defendants charged with multiple offenses.
- 14 defendants have been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm;
- Two defendants have been charged with possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances;
- Two defendants have been charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking;
- Three defendants have been charged with receipt of a firearm while under indictment;
- Four defendants have been charged with making false statement to a licensed firearm dealer; and
- Two defendants have been charged with carjacking.
Milwaukee, WI.
11 defendants have been charged with federal crimes outlined below, with some defendants charged with multiple offenses. In addition, thus far, 28 firearms have been seized.
- Eight defendants have been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm;
- Five defendants have been charged with possession with intent to distribute narcotics;
- Four defendants have been charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking;
- Two defendants have been charged with making false statements to a licensed firearm dealer;
- One defendant has been charged with possession of a firearm while being an unlawful user of narcotics;
- One defendant has been charged with being a felon in possession of ammunition; and
- One defendant has been charged with distribution of narcotics.
St. Louis, MO.
15 defendants have been charged with federal crimes, with some defendants charged with multiple offenses.
- One defendant has been charged with drug trafficking and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime following the USMS’s execution of a state arrest warrant;
- One defendant has been charged with robbery of an item effecting interstate commerce and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence following an joint ATF, SLMPD-initiated undercover operation targeting a known shooter;
- One defendant has been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm following ATF’s execution of a federal search warrant directed towards the residence of a suspected murderer;
- 11 defendants have been charged with drug trafficking offenses; and
- One defendant has been charged with being a drug user in possession of a firearm.
Memphis, Tenn.
Seven defendants have been charged with federal offenses, with some defendants charged with multiple offenses.
- One defendant has been charged with being an alien in possession of a firearm while illegally or unlawfully in the United States;
- One defendant, who lives in Memphis, was charged in an out-of-district federal case with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;
- Two defendants have been charged with being unlawful users of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm and making a material false statement when acquiring a firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL); and
- Two cases remain under seal, but the charges are as follows:
- One defendant has been charged with bank robbery
- Two defendants charged with theft from an FFL.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Oak Creek Man Who Vandalized Racine Synagogue Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that on August 12, 2020, Yousef O. Barasneh (age: 22) of Oak Creek, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty to conspiring to violate citizens’ rights to use property free from threats and intimidation, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 241.
According to court documents, Barasneh was a member of a neo-Nazi, white supremacist group called “The Base.” From September 13, 2019, through September 21, 2019, Barasneh participated in online group chats with other Base members in which they agreed to threaten and intimidate African Americans and Jewish Americans, who they viewed as enemies of the white race. Following this agreement, on the evening of September 21, 2019, Barasneh went to the Beth Israel Sinai Congregation in Racine and spray-painted anti-Semitic words and phrases, as well as a swastika and the symbol for “The Base,” on various parts of the synagogue building.
“Violence and intimidation motivated by white supremacist ideology are abhorrent and have no place in this country. The Justice Department is commitment to prosecution such civil rights violations aggressively,” stated United States Attorney Krueger.
Chief United States District Judge Pamela Pepper set a sentencing hearing for November 23, 2020. At sentencing, Barasneh faces up to ten years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eastern District of Wisconsin’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin Proctor and Adam Ptashkin.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
(414) 297-1700
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Milwaukee Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing a Loaded Firearm While Trafficking DrugsRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on Friday, August 7, 2020 James K. Nicksion (age 24) of Milwaukee was sentenced by the Honorable Judge Lynn Adelman to 60 months’ imprisonment. Once released, Nicksion will serve a three-year term of supervised release.
According to court records, Nicksion ran from police officers during a traffic stop. Inside the car, police found a 9mm semi-automatic pistol carrying an extended magazine. The gun was loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition. Police also found roughly five grams of crack cocaine and a scale. Nicksion had previously been convicted of dealing marijuana and bail jumping.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a federal, state, and local law enforcement collaboration to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals responsible for violent crimes in our neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods’ strategy brings together all levels of law enforcement and community resources to reduce violent crime and improve the quality of life in all our neighborhoods.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://go.usa.gov/xpBrs.
The Milwaukee Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Shawano County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Farris Martini prosecuted the case.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
(414) 297-1700
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Operation Legend Has Contributed to 32 Arrests and the Seizure of 27 Firearms in MilwaukeeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced today that local and federal law enforcement officers have made 32 arrests and recovered 27 firearms since the mid-July commencement of Operation Legend in Milwaukee. Those arrested include individuals alleged to have committed firearms-related offenses as well as fugitives wanted for violent crimes, including homicide, armed robbery, and recklessly endangering safety.
Resources from Operation Legend have also contributed to federal charges against 8 defendants for firearm-related crimes in Milwaukee, including charges for being a felon in possession of a firearm, lying to federally licensed firearms dealer, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Some of these charges stemmed from conduct and investigations that began before Operation Legend but were aided by the additional resources brought by Operation Legend.
“Operation Legend reflects the Justice Department’s commitment to work collaboratively with state and local partners to make Milwaukee a safer city for all of its residents,” said United States Attorney Krueger. “By bringing to justice the shooters, the drug traffickers, and those who carry illegal firearms, we will reduce the levels of violence in our neighborhoods.”
Last week, United States Attorney Krueger held a press conference to explain that Operation Legend is a sustained, systematic, and coordinated law enforcement initiative in which federal law enforcement agencies work in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime. In addition to Milwaukee, Operation Legend is now underway in Kansas City, Chicago, Albuquerque, Detroit, and Cleveland. This week saw the expansion of Operation Legend into both Memphis and St. Louis.
In Milwaukee, Operation Legend is bringing over $12 million in funding for state and local law enforcement agencies to support violent crime reduction efforts. Operation Legend also entails bringing to Milwaukee 25 to 30 federal investigators from these four Justice Department agencies: the FBI, DEA, ATF, and United States Marshals Service. These investigators are joining the work already underway by existing joint federal, state and local task forces focused on combatting violent crime.
Ten of those federal investigators are assigned to work in Milwaukee temporarily to provide immediate assistance, and the others are being assigned over the coming year to Milwaukee permanently to provide long-term assistance.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
(414) 297-1700
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Milwaukee Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing a Loaded Firearm While Trafficking Drugs and Fleeing from PoliceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that on August 6, 2020, U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman sentenced Ronald J. Payne (age: 34) to six years’ imprisonment and two years’ supervised release after Payne pled guilty to Possessing a Firearm during and in relation to Drug Trafficking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c).
According to court records, on June 5, 2019, Milwaukee police officers attempted to pull Payne over for a traffic offense but Payne took off in his truck, leading officers on a high-speed chase through a residential area until he stopped and fled on foot while carrying a loaded .38-caliber handgun. Officers pursued and ordered him to drop the gun. Payne tossed the gun as he fell to the ground, and officers quickly arrested him and secured the gun. On his person and in his truck, Payne possessed cash and distribution-sized quantities of marijuana. Payne was a two-time convicted felon and admitted that he was a drug dealer and not a drug user. Investigation revealed that Payne also possessed two 9-mm pistols at his home and dozens of rounds of ammunition. Payne had been previously convicted of robbery and drug dealing and served time in state prison.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a federal, state, and local law enforcement collaboration to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals responsible for violent crimes in our neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods’ strategy brings together all levels of law enforcement and community resources to reduce violent crime and improve the quality of life in all our neighborhoods.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://go.usa.gov/xpBrs.
This case was investigated by the Milwaukee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Tim Funnell prosecuted the case.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Neopit Man Receives Prison Sentence for Child Sexual Abuse on Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that an individual received a 30-month sentence following a conviction for child sexual abuse on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The man, Robert Kapishkowit (age: 26), formerly lived in Neopit, which is a community on the Menominee Indian Reservation.
The sentence, imposed on August 6, 2020, by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach, was the result of a guilty plea entered by the defendant on January 22, 2020. Kapishkowit pleaded guilty to Sexual Abuse of a Minor in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2243(a) and 1153(a). In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Griesbach imposed 60 months of Supervised Release.
The investigation revealed that on June 11, 2018, the defendant caused a minor female to engage in a sex act while at a residence in Neopit on the Menominee Indian Reservation. Kapishkowit later admitted he engaged in the sex act with the female, who was between 12 and 16 years of age.
In sentencing the defendant, Judge Griesbach noted the seriousness of the crime the defendant committed. Judge Griesbach also remarked upon the need to deter those would might consider similar actions.
The Menominee Tribal Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier prosecutedThe year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
(414) 297-1700
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Former Milwaukee Alderman Sentenced to Prison for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that earlier today Willie C. Wade (age: 57), a former Milwaukee alderman, was sentenced by United States District Judge Lynn Adelman to four (4) months in prison for executing a wire fraud scheme. Following his term of imprisonment, Wade also must serve three (3) years on supervised release.
According to court filings, Wade obtained $30,000 in cash from a cooperating businessman by falsely claiming that he was negotiating on behalf of a current Milwaukee alderman to accept a bribe in exchange for a vote in favor of a license to operate a downtown strip club. Court filings confirmed that the alderman was not aware of Wade’s representations and had never agreed to accept any bribe.
In imposing sentence, Judge Adelman explained that offenses like this are “extremely serious” as they can undermine public confidence in government by suggesting that public policy can be “bought and paid for.” Judge Adelman found that even though there was no actual bribe, incarceration was necessary to deter others and to convey the importance of maintaining trust in government.
Consistent with the terms of a plea agreement filed in the case, Judge Adelman ordered Wade to repay the money he received as a condition of his supervised release, and Wade made an initial payment of $10,000 toward this obligation before his sentencing hearing.
This case was investigated by the FBI and was assigned to Assistant United States Attorney Richard G. Frohling for prosecution.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
(414) 297-1700
Follow us on Twitter
U.s. Attorney Matthew D. Krueger Announces Award of $1 Million to Provide Housing for Human Trafficking VictimsRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, today announced that two agencies in Wisconsin received nearly $1 million from the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs and its component, the Office for Victims of Crime, to provide safe, stable housing and appropriate services to victims of human trafficking.
“Human trafficking is a barbaric criminal enterprise that subjects its victims to unspeakable cruelty and deprives them of the most basic of human needs, none more essential than a safe place to live,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Throughout this Administration, the Department of Justice has fought aggressively to bring human traffickers to justice and to deliver critical aid to trafficking survivors. These new resources, announced today, expand on our efforts to offer those who have suffered the shelter and support they need to begin a new and better life.”
“The funds announced here will provide direct and much-needed aid to victims of human trafficking,” said U.S. Attorney Krueger. “Combatting human trafficking remains a top priority for my office, which is among the most active U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the country in fighting this scourge. From our experience, we know that providing safe, stable housing is essential to helping victims break away from their trafficker.”
The grant, awarded to Newcap, Inc. in the amount of $500,000, and to Pathfinders Milwaukee, Inc. in the amount of $499,000, will provide six to 24 months of transitional or short-term housing assistance for trafficking victims, including rental, utilities or related expenses, such as security deposits and relocation costs. The grant will also provide funding for support needed to help victims locate permanent housing, secure employment, as well as occupational training and counseling. Newcap, Inc. and Pathfinders Milwaukee, Inc. are among 73 organizations receiving more than $35 million in OVC grants to support housing services for human trafficking survivors.
“Human traffickers dangle the threat of homelessness over those they have entrapped, playing a ruthless game of psychological manipulation that victims are never in a position to win,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “These grants will empower survivors on their path to independence and a life of self-sufficiency and hope.”
Human trafficking offenses are among the most difficult crimes to identify, and the scope of human trafficking victimization may be much greater than the limited data reflect. A new report issued by the National Institute of Justice, another component of the Office of Justice Programs, found that the number of human trafficking cases captured in police reports may represent only a fraction of all such cases. Expanding housing and other services to trafficking victims remains a top Justice Department priority.
The Office for Victims of Crime, for example, hosted listening sessions and roundtable discussions with stakeholders in the field in 2018 and launched the Human Trafficking Capacity Building Center. From July 2018 through June 2019, 118 OVC human trafficking grantees reported serving 8,375 total clients including confirmed trafficking victims and individuals showing strong indicators of trafficking victimization.
For a complete list of individual award amounts and jurisdictions that will receive funding, visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/htvictimsfactheet.pdf
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Methamphetamine Trafficking and Illegal Firearms Possession at Tribal Casino in Wittenberg Lead to Ten-year Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that an individual received a sentence totaling ten years following convictions for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and illegal firearms possession at a tribal casino near Wittenberg, Wisconsin. The man, Matthew Hornung (age: 36), formerly lived in the Wausau area.
The sentence, imposed on August 5, 2020, by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach, was the result of guilty pleas entered by the defendant to the following:
CHARGE
STATUTE SECTION
SENTENCE
Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine (5 grams or more)
21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B)(viii)
60 months in prison, followed by 60 months of supervised release
Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking
18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(a)(i)
60 months in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, followed by 60 months of supervised release
According to court records, the investigation revealed that on October 16, 2019, Hornung was at a tribal casino located near Wittenberg in western Shawano County. While at the casino, Hornung possessed with the intent to distribute approximately 41 grams of methamphetamine with a purity of greater than 80%. Hornung fled on foot from officers who arrived to arrest him. During the short chase, Hornung threw a loaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun that he had on his person.
In sentencing the defendant, Judge Griesbach noted the seriousness of the crime the defendant committed and referred to a criminal record of similar conduct involving illegal drugs and firearms. Judge Griesbach also remarked upon the need to enforce laws related to firearm possession and to deter those would might consider similar actions.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a federal, state, and local law enforcement collaboration to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals responsible for violent crimes in our neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods’ strategy brings together all levels of law enforcement and community resources to reduce violent crime and improve the quality of life in all our neighborhoods.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://go.usa.gov/xpBrs.
The Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Shawano County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier prosecuted the case.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Former Police Chief and Sheriff Candidate Pleads Guilty to Federal Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on August 4, 2020, Alexander P. Bebris (age: 50) of Neenah, Wisconsin, entered a guilty plea to a charge of distributing child pornography.
According to court filings, in September of 2018, Facebook notified the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that one of its users had sent images of child pornography via its messenger system to another Facebook user account. The Wisconsin Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Taskforce launched an investigation and determined that the images were sent from an IP address in use at Bebris’s residence in Neenah. Investigators sought and obtained a search warrant for that residence.
On December 19, 2018, the search warrant was executed at Bebris’ residence. An examination of the hard drive on Bebris’ computer revealed images of pornography involving children ranging in age from approximately one to fifteen years old.
Court records also indicate that Bebris spent his career in law enforcement, most recently as Public Safety Chief in Oakwood, Ohio. In 2018, he ran unsuccessfully for the position of Outagamie County Sheriff.
Bebris faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years of incarceration in federal prison when he is sentenced in Green Bay’s Federal District Court on November 13, 2020.
This case was investigated by the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s ICAC Task Force, the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Neopit Man Receives Prison Sentence for Illegal Firearm Possession on Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that an individual received a 15-month sentence following a conviction for illegal firearm possession on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The man, Ryan M. Hill (age: 26), formerly lived in Neopit, which is a community on the Menominee Indian Reservation.
The sentence, imposed on August 3, 2020, by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach, was the result of a guilty plea entered by the defendant on February 7, 2020. Hill pleaded guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g). In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Griesbach imposed 36 months of supervised release.
The investigation revealed that on September 13, 2019, Hill brandished a small-caliber semiautomatic handgun while at a business in Neopit on the Menominee Indian Reservation. Hill later admitted he possessed the handgun.
In sentencing the defendant, Judge Griesbach noted the seriousness of the crime the defendant committed. Judge Griesbach also remarked upon the need to enforce law related to firearm possession and to deter those would might consider similar actions.
The Menominee Tribal Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier prosecuted.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
(414) 297-1700
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Milwaukee Man Sentenced to 22 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Robberies and Unlawful Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced on August 3, 2020 that Rickey Austin of Milwaukee, after having served approximately 18 months since his arrest, was sentenced by the Honorable Judge Lynn Adelman to an additional 246 months’ imprisonment for armed robberies and unlawful possession of firearms.
Austin had previously pleaded guilty to committing armed robberies at two banks and a convenience store in Wauwatosa, Milwaukee, and Fox Point between December 3, 2018, and January 15, 2019. On each occasion, Austin brandished handguns and placed others in fear for their lives. Austin, 65, has previously served 26 years in state prison as a result of 1989 convictions for a series of armed robberies and felony murder.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Milwaukee Area Violent Crime Task Force, Milwaukee Police Department, Wauwatosa Police Department, and Fox Point Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Farris Martini and Elizabeth Monfils.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
(414) 297-1700
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Green Bay Man Sentenced to 96 Months in Federal Prison Following Arson TrialRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 31, 2020, William A. Julius (age: 57) of Green Bay and Menominee, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 96 months’ imprisonment by Senior District Judge William C. Griesbach. In March of this year, a jury found Julius guilty of two counts of arson to a building.
The evidence presented at trial established that just before 1:00 a.m. on August 20, 2017, Julius set fire to a porch of a building on Madison Street in downtown Green Bay. Residents of the apartments located in the upper portion of the building were accounted for, and the Green Bay Fire Department began an investigation. While the fire marshal continued his investigation into the first fire, Julius returned and lit another fire in front of the main entrance, causing significant fire and smoke damage to the businesses located on the first floor. Julius later was found hiding under a vehicle a few blocks away and arrested.
In imposing sentence, Judge Griesbach noted that arson is a serious crime that puts not only the building’s occupants, but firefighters and first responders in harm’s way. He further noted that Julius’ history of serious criminal conduct and lack of “pro-social” activities called for a lengthy prison sentence. Following his release from prison, Julius will serve an additional 3 years on supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Green Bay Fire Department, the Green Bay Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). It was prosecuted by United States Attorney Krueger and Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
(414) 297-1700
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Arizona Man Charged with Distribution of Child Pornography as Part of Operation Kick BoxerRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 21, 2020, a federal grand jury handed down an indictment alleging that Dale L. Bauwens II (age: 34) of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, distributed child pornography in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252A(a)(2)(A).
Bauwens is charged with two counts of distributing child pornography. Each count carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years of incarceration in federal prison upon conviction.
Bauwens’ indictment is a direct result of Operation Kick Boxer, a collaborative effort involving the Milwaukee Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office (https://go.usa.gov/xfPHh).
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Phoenix Offices, as well as the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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United States Attorney Matthew Krueger’s Remarks Regarding Operation Legend’s Expansion to MilwaukeeRead the Press Release
Following are remarks from United States Attorney Matthew Krueger as prepared for a press conference to announce the expansion of Operation Legend to Milwaukee to reduce violent crime.
“Good morning. We’re here to announce a good thing for Milwaukee—specifically, the expansion of Operation Legend to address violent crime. Here with me are some of our key partners, including Robert Hughes, the Special Agent-in-Charge for FBI Milwaukee; Brian Kolar, Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge for the ATF; Paul Maxwell, Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge for the DEA; Thomas Conlon, Acting United States Marshal; Milwaukee County Sheriff Earnell Lucas; and Acting Assistant Chief Paul Formolo of the Milwaukee Police Department.
In the last week, there has been substantial discussion about Operation Legend so I hope to explain clearly what Operation Legend is, and what it is not.
First, what it is. Operation Legend is an initiative to address violent crime. Through Operation Legend, federal law enforcement resources, both funding and investigators, are brought to work in coordination with state and local law enforcement officials to address firearms offenses, violent individuals, and violent drug trafficking organizations.
These resources will help address a spike in violent crime. In December 2019, the Attorney General identified Milwaukee and six other cities as having violent crime rates that were significantly higher than the national average. He announced the initiative then named Operation Relentless Pursuit. Its first phase ran from January to April this year and focused on the apprehension of violent fugitives. The United States Marshal’s Service led that effort in coordination the Milwaukee Police Department as well as these federal agencies.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 96 individuals wanted for violent offenses, including homicide, robbery, aggravated assault, and forcible sexual assault. It also provided support for operations that dismantled violent drug trafficking organizations, such as Operation Island Hopper and the charges against the Buffam Meinecke Boys that we announced earlier this year. The second phase of Operation Relentless Pursuit was intended to begin in the spring of 2020, but it was delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since then, Milwaukee has only suffered a greater increase in violent crime. As of yesterday, there already have been 97 homicides in 2020, compared to 52 homicides at this time last year. That’s an 85% increase—45 additional lives lost this year. Those lives are precious. They are sons and daughters, whose families are grieving. Non-fatal shootings in the city also are up 64%.
Milwaukee is not alone in this trend. Other major cities have also seen a spike in violent crime this year, including Kansas City. Early in the morning of June 29, a four-year-old named LeGend Taliferro was shot and killed while he slept in his bed. And so the Department of Justice is continuing what it started in Operation Relentless Pursuit, now under the banner of Operation Legend. It began in Kansas City, which was one of the seven original Relentless Pursuit cities, but with additional federal resources. It was expanded to Albuquerque and Chicago, which was not originally in Relentless Pursuit. And now today, we’re announcing it for Milwaukee, Detroit, and Cleveland.
For Milwaukee, Operation Legend entails bringing to Milwaukee 25 to 30 federal investigators from these four Justice Department agencies: the FBI, DEA, ATF, and United States Marshals Service. In Milwaukee, no personnel from the Department of Homeland Security will participate in Operation Legend.
These investigators from the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service will join the work already underway by existing joint federal, state and local task forces focused on combatting violent crime. Ten of those federal investigators are already assigned to work in Milwaukee temporarily to provide immediate assistance. The others will be assigned over the coming year to Milwaukee permanently to provide long-term assistance. This is a long-term commitment, a sustained effort, to make Milwaukee a safer place to live.
The task forces supplemented by Operation Legend address firearms offenses. This means working directly with the Milwaukee Police Department to analyze the firearms and ballistics used in homicides and other shootings. This also means investigating those who traffick in illegal firearms—those who sell guns to the shooters. And it means prosecuting those who possess firearms illegally. For example, a significant number of homicides involve domestic violence. Under federal law—but not state law, it is a felony to possess a firearm if you are under a domestic violence restraining order or have a misdemeanor domestic violence conviction.
The task forces will also address violent drug trafficking organizations because we know that drug traffickers are often involved in firearms violence, as they protect their illegal activity and rob or war with their competitors.
The case of Earnest Moffett is an example of the type of important work that task forces are continuing to undertake as part of Operation Legend. One week ago, task force agents from the FBI and MPD arrested Earnest Moffett on a criminal complaint that charged him with four counts related to his distribution of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana. When executing a search warrant at Moffett’s residence in connection with the arrest, task force agents recovered a loaded pistol, an assault-style rifle with a loaded magazine, a second loaded magazine, a distribution quantity of marijuana, and over $31,000 in cash. According to public records, Moffett has multiple prior felony convictions, including convictions for cocaine distribution, escape, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. This is the type of case that will be investigated and prosecuted as part of Operation Legend.
All of those cases will be conducted by federal investigators working side-by-side with state and local law enforcement agencies, as they always do. In this way, Operation Legend is simply an enhancement of the existing law enforcement partnerships, to increase solid, proven crime reduction methods.
Operation Legend also is bringing more than $12 million in funding to support state and local law enforcement partners in this effort to help Milwaukee. Specifically, through the Bureau of Justice Assistance, the Department of Justice will make available $1.9 million in funding to support Operation Legend’s violent crime reduction efforts in Milwaukee. The Justice Department’s COPS Office also has made $10.2 million available to the Police Departments of Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, and Cudahy to fund the hiring of 29 officers to facilitate their assigning of experienced officers to task forces.
The Department has also provided assistance through the Joint Law Enforcement Operations fund to assist reimbursement of local law enforcement serving as federal task force officers with the FBI, ATF, DEA, and U.S. Marshals Service. ATF also has provided $100,000 to help agencies in the Milwaukee area defray costs associated with installing or maintaining shot detection technology.
I have spent the last week speaking with state and local leaders about Operation Legend, and similar questions arise. So, let me clarify what Operation Legend is not.
First, Operation Legend is not aimed at protest activity or civil disturbances. Operation Legend differs from the federal operation in Portland. In Portland, Customs and Border Patrol agents, working with the Federal Protective Service, were deployed to protect the Federal Courthouse, which had been repeatedly damaged. That is an entirely different mission from investigating violent crime.
That is why Portland is not on the list of Operation Legend cities. You will not see federal agents massing on Milwaukee’s streets. Just like all the other Deputy U.S. Marshals and FBI, DEA, and ATF agents who have worked in Milwaukee for decades, the additional agents will investigate crime.
Second, Operation Legend is not aimed at flooding certain neighborhoods. This not a patrol operation, nor is it aimed at maximizing the number of arrests. Rather, the work of these task forces will be specifically targeted at offenders whose criminal activities pose a danger to the community. A relatively small number of individuals cause most of Milwaukee’s violence. They are the focus of Operation Legend.
Third, Operation Legend is not the full solution to Milwaukee’s violence. Law enforcement is one piece of the puzzle. To ensure that Milwaukee is a safe, vibrant city for all of its residents, we also need efforts to prevent violence, and to help make quality housing, schools, and job opportunities available to Milwaukee residents, including those returning from incarceration. But make no mistake, well-funded, well-trained, and collaborative law enforcement is an absolutely essential corner piece of the puzzle.
From talking to colleagues around the country, I can say that Milwaukee, and the entire State, is exceptional for its cooperative, professional law enforcement agencies. No one agency can handle all that is asked of it alone. That is why we have a long-standing tradition of federal, state, county, and local partnerships, including to confront the unacceptable levels of violent crime in Milwaukee. Operation Legend should be welcomed by all because it enhances these partnerships, for the good of Milwaukee.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we want to address the murder of Qunyonce Louis-Moore. Qunyonce Louis-More was just 16-years-old when she was shot and killed by unknown individuals in Milwaukee a few weeks ago, on June 30, 2020. SAC Hughes will provide more details on a reward that FBI is offering for information related to her death. I spoke with Ms. Louis-Moore’s mother and grandmother recently. They are grieving, and they want whoever killed Qunyonce brought to justice. Of course, nothing will heal the sense of loss that Ms. Louis-Moore’s family feels. Every life lost in Milwaukee to violent crime is a tragedy. There have been nearly 100 tragedies so far this year in Milwaukee, and hundreds more individuals injured by firearms. Leaders at all levels in Wisconsin—federal, state, county, and local—should be working together, reaching across divides, to stop firearm violence in Milwaukee. Operation Legend will bring much-needed support to those efforts.
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Operation Legend Expanded to Milwaukee to Confront Violent CrimeRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, joined the Department of Justice in officially announcing the expansion of Operation Legend to Milwaukee. Operation Legend is a sustained, systematic, and coordinated law enforcement initiative in which federal law enforcement agencies work in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime. In addition to Milwaukee, Operation Legend is now underway in Kansas City, Chicago, Albuquerque, Detroit, and Cleveland.
The expansion of Operation Legend to Milwaukee marks a continuation of violent crime reduction efforts that began in Milwaukee under Operation Relentless Pursuit in December 2019. Operation Legend is named after four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed while he slept early in the morning of June 29 in Kansas City.
The addition of these resources will help address a spike in violent crime. In Milwaukee, there already have been 97 homicides in 2020, an 85% increase over last year. Non-fatal shootings in the city also are up 64%.
As part of Operation Legend, the Department of Justice will supplement state and local law enforcement agencies by sending more than 25 federal investigators from the FBI, DEA, ATF, and United States Marshals Service to the city. These investigators will join the work already underway by existing joint federal, state and local task forces focused on combatting violent crime, including offenses involving firearms and violent drug trafficking organizations. Ten of those federal investigators are assigned to work in Milwaukee temporarily to provide immediate assistance, and the others will be assigned over the coming year to Milwaukee permanently to provide long-term assistance.
United States Attorney Krueger held a press conference in Milwaukee to make the announcement along with leadership from the FBI, ATF, DEA, United States Marshal’s Service, Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Milwaukee Police Department.
At the press conference, FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Hughes announced that the FBI is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the individuals responsible for the murder of Qunyonce Louis-Moore of Milwaukee on June 30, 2020. Louis-Moore, who was 16 years old at the time of her death, was shot when unknown individuals opened fire on the 3400 block of North 8th Street at approximately 10:28 p.m. Louis-Moore was on a walk with her friends when she was struck by gunfire.
In addition to the increased number of federal agents described above, through the Bureau of Justice Assistance, the Department of Justice will make available $1.9 million in funding to support Operation Legend’s violent crime reduction efforts in Milwaukee. In addition, the Department of Justice’s COPS Office also has made $10.2 million available to the Police Departments of Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, and Cudahy to fund the hiring of 29 new officers to facilitate those Police Departments’ ability to assign existing officers to task forces.
The Department has also provided assistance through the Joint Law Enforcement Operations fund to assist reimbursement of local law enforcement serving as federal task force officers with the FBI, ATF, DEA, and U.S. Marshals Service. ATF also has provided $100,000 to help agencies in the Milwaukee area defray costs associated with installing or maintaining shot detection technology.
During the press conference, the results of the initial phase of Operation Relentless Pursuit were announced. This phase ran from January to April 2020 and focused on apprehension of violent fugitives. The efforts in Milwaukee were led by the United States Marshal’s Service in coordination with the ATF, FBI, DEA, and the Milwaukee Police Department. In Milwaukee, the operation resulted in the arrest of 96 individuals wanted for violent offenses, including homicide, robbery, aggravated assault, and forcible sexual assault.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Milwaukee Man Sentenced to Prison for Arson of DuplexRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced today that Dameon Johnson (46) was sentenced to five years in prison for his involvement in the arson of a duplex located on North 37th Street in Milwaukee. Johnson also will spend three years on supervised release following his prison term.
According to court documents, on November 19, 2019, after becoming upset with his girlfriend, Johnson used the stovetop in her kitchen in an upper unit of duplex to set fire to several pieces of his clothing. Johnson then piled the burning clothes on the hallway floor, burning a hole through the floor and causing damage to the ceiling of a rental unit on the first floor.
United States Attorney Krueger commended the quick response of the Milwaukee Fire Department (MFD) and the collaborative investigative work of MFD, the Milwaukee Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
By virtue of its statutory authority under the Organized Crime Control Act of 1970, ATF initiates investigations and assists in state and local bomb and arson investigations that impact interstate commerce. ATF has developed scientifically proven investigative capabilities, expertise and resources and has proved that the cooperative effort between trained State and local officers and ATF results in more effective investigations.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Karine Moreno-Taxman.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For Additional Information Contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales 414-297-1700
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Illinois Man Indicted on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that on July 28, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment against Javier Vargas (age: 43) of Joliet, Illinois.
The indictment alleges that Vargas possessed in excess of 50 grams of actual methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a) and 841(b)(1)(A). “Actual” methamphetamine possesses a high level of purity and is commonly known as “crystal” or “ice.” Vargas faces a minimum of ten years to life imprisonment, at least five years of supervised release, and up to a $10 million fine.
This case was investigated by the Manitowoc County Metro Drug Unit, Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigation, and Wisconsin State Patrol. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alexander E. Duros.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Eight People in Kenosha and Chicago Charged with Heroin Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced today federal charges against eight defendants associated with a drug trafficking organization operating in Southeastern Wisconsin and Chicago. The co-conspirators are members and associates of the Black Disciples Street Gang.
The defendants are: James Allen, a.k.a. “Jimmy,” (52), Eric Bradley, a.k.a. “Too Too,” (52), Joanna Johnson, (25), James Smith, (36) John Gaston, a.k.a. “Ike,” (50), Richard Wadlington (69), Latonya Webster, (20), and Lance Woodward, (41).
A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging six of the defendants with conspiring to distribute 1 kilogram or more of heroin. If convicted of this conspiracy charge, those six defendants face a mandatory minimum term of ten years in prison. Two other defendants were charged with distribution of heroin.
On July 28 and 29, 2020, federal, state, and local law enforcement officers arrested four defendants in a coordinated enforcement operation. Throughout the course of the investigation, officers recovered approximately one kilogram of heroin and a firearm.
“The Justice Department is committed to confronting violent drug trafficking organizations that possess firearms and pedal deadly opioids,” said United States Attorney Krueger. “Kudos to the excellent cooperation among the law enforcement agents and officers from multiple agencies, led by the FBI, to build this case.”
Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) Special Agent in Charge Robert E. Hughes stated, “I commend the work of the Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Gang Task Force. Successful collaborative law enforcement partnerships from Racine to Chicago brought this violent drug trafficking operation to an end. The FBI has a long reach across states to bring violent offenders to justice, as demonstrated in this successful investigation by the FBI Milwaukee and Chicago Divisions.”
The defendants were charged based on joint investigation by law enforcement officers from the FBI’s Southeastern Wisconsin Gang Task Force, Kenosha Drug Operations Group, Racine County Metro Drug Unit, City of Racine Police Department Drug Unit, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bridget J. Schoenborn.
Multiple law enforcement agencies participated in the arrests yesterday, including the FBI’s Southeastern Wisconsin Gang Task Force, FBI Chicago, Chicago Police Department, Kenosha Drug Operations Group, Racine County Metro Drug Unit, City of Racine Police Department Drug Unit, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The public is cautioned that an indictment or criminal complaint is merely a charge and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Milwaukee Man Indicted for Arson Causing Injury to a Firefighter at 40th & Lloyd IncidentRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 28, 2020, a federal grand jury indicted Joshua M. Lusk (age: 32) of Milwaukee, for arson and attempted arson, causing an injury to a Milwaukee Fire Department firefighter, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 844(i) and 2. The arson occurred at a residence located at 2120-2122 North 40th Street, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
If convicted of the arson and attempted arson causing injury to a firefighter, Lusk would face a mandatory minimum of seven years and a maximum of 20 years in prison. He also would face a fine of up to $250,000.
“As alleged in the indictment, Lusk engaged in senseless violence, attempting to destroy the home of innocent people,” said United States Attorney Krueger. “I commend the excellent work of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Milwaukee Police Department in investigating this matter. The Justice Department is committed to working with state and local authorities to ensure public safety in Milwaukee.”
“Our partnership with the Milwaukee Police Department and the United States Attorney’s Office continues to hold those responsible for violent crimes accountable for their actions,” remarked Special Agent in Charge Kristen deTineo of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) of the Chicago Field Division.
Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales remarked: “The Milwaukee Police Department would like to thank all law enforcement that worked tirelessly on this investigation. This is just one example of how having strong relationships with our local, state, and federal partners can have a positive impact on the members of the city of Milwaukee.”
The ATF and the Milwaukee Police Department investigated the case, which will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Ladwig.
A criminal indictment is merely a formal method of charging an individual and does not constitute inference of his or her guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until such time, if ever, that the government establishes his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to 20 years in Prison for Child EnticementRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 23, 2020, Brian D. Wickersham (age: 60) of Merrill, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison by Senior District Judge William C. Griesbach.
Wickersham, a long haul truck driver, took his victim with him on a four-day trip from Wisconsin to Virginia and back. During the trip, Wickersham provided the victim with money and gifts; in the evenings, Wickersham sexually assaulted the child and pressured him to engage in increasingly aggressive sexual acts. The trip ended at the “Country Express” truck stop in Bellevue, Wisconsin, on the outskirts of the City of Green Bay. While Wickersham and his victim awaited a replacement driver, Wickersham attempted to violate the child a final time. The victim fled the truck and sought assistance inside the truck stop’s restaurant. Brown County Sheriff’s Deputies arrived to protect the child and located Wickersham hiding at a nearby hotel where he was taken into custody.
In 1994, Wickersham was convicted of “First Degree Sexual Assault of a Child” in Milwaukee County Circuit Court for the repeated sexual assault of a four-year-old child. At that time, he was required to register as a sexual offender for the remainder of his life. In 2008, Wickersham was convicted of “Sex Registry Violations” in Taylor County Circuit Court for repeated unsupervised contact with minor children and lying to investigators. In 2016, Wickershamwas again convicted in Taylor County for “Knowingly Failing to Notify School Officials of Sex Offender Status.”
In handing down the sentence, Judge Griesbach noted the horrendous nature of the crime and previous pattern of preying on children. He further stated his belief that a 20-year prison sentence was lengthy enough to protect the community given Wickersham’s advanced age. Upon the completion of his federal prison sentence, the defendant will serve the remainder of his life on supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, the Brown County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and the Green Bay office of the F.B.I. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel R. Humble and Megan J. Paulson.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Omro Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Two Firearms as Convicted Felon, Including a Loaded Handgun Obtained in Trade for MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 22, 2020, U.S. District Judge William C. Griesbach sentenced Colin H. Coffin (age: 26) to five years’ imprisonment and three years’ supervised release after Coffin pled guilty to two counts of Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted Felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
On September 8, 2019, Oshkosh Police Officers found Coffin passed out in his vehicle, which was parked illegally on a city street. Investigation revealed that Coffin was in possession of drug paraphernalia related to his methamphetamine use, and a 12-gauge shotgun with an obliterated serial number. Coffin had been previously convicted of multiple felonies and served time in state prison.
Then, on November 9, 2019—while on bail from the shotgun incident—Grand Chute Police Officers arrested Coffin for lying about his identity during a traffic stop. A search revealed that Coffin was carrying a loaded 9-mm handgun in his waistband. He admitted trading methamphetamine for the handgun, saying that he needed it for protection.
Possessing a firearm as a convicted felon is a felony punishable by up to ten years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years’ supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Oshkosh Police Department, Grand Chute Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales,
(414) 297-1700
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Menominee Man Indicted for Aggravated Assault on Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 21, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment against a man allegedly involved in an assault that resulted in injury to a tribal police officer. The indictment named Martin W. Penass a/k/a “Ap Hawpetoss” (age: 38) of Neopit, which is on the Menominee Indian Reservation.
The indictment charged Penass with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 113(a)(3). If convicted, Penass faces a maximum of ten years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.
According to the indictment, on or about June 26, 2020, officers with the Menominee Tribal Police Department were investigating an incident involving Penass when Penass assaulted one of the officers with a knife, causing the officer to suffer cuts on his arm.
The Menominee Tribal Police Department investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier will prosecute.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales, (414) 297-1700
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Menomonee Falls, Wi, Doctor Sentenced for Illegal Opioid PrescribingRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger announced today that Steven Kotsonis (38), a medical doctor of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, was sentenced in federal district court to 12 months and 1 day of confinement for unlawfully distributing Oxycodone outside of a professional medical practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. The conviction resulted from Kotsonis executing a drug-trafficking conspiracy and pill mill operation, motivated by greed.
Over the course of approximately eight months, Kotsonis orchestrated and engaged in a conspiracy to illegally distribute narcotics by issuing illegitimate prescriptions, primarily for Oxycodone and other opioids, in exchange for cash. Kotsonis was the co-owner and operator of Compassionate Care Clinic (“CCC”). Kotsonis’s partner was his office manager and one of his patients. Even though Kotsonis’s partner was not a licensed health care provider and had no medical training, Kotsonis instructed her to write out the prescriptions and have Kotsonis sign them without Kotsonis actually seeing the patients. The investigation revealed that prescriptions were written for large quantities of Oxycodone, particularly Oxycodone 30mg (an average of 150-180 tablets per month). Individuals frequently obtained prescriptions at CCC without being examined or having their vitals (height, weight, blood pressure) taken during their visit. At least two CCC patients overdosed on Oxycodone and died.
“The opioid crisis continues to rage, with hundreds of overdoses occurring in Wisconsin this year,” said United States Attorney Krueger. “For many, the road to opioid addiction began with prescription drugs like the ones that Kotsonis dealt. To enrich himself, Kotsonis exploited individuals’ addictions and dealt drugs for cash. As indicated by the United States’ recommended sentence of four years in federal prison, Kotsonis deserves significant punishment. The Justice Department remains committed to holding accountable anyone who abuses their prescribing privileges.”
“Today’s sentencing demonstrates the value of local and federal law enforcement working alongside prosecutors to hold rogue practitioners accountable for their actions. Every day the men and women of DEA work to improve public health and safety and bring to justice those responsible for the illicit trade and diversion of DEA controlled substances,” remarked Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge Paul E. Maxwell, Jr.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Jacobs and Laura S. Kwaterski.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales, (414) 297-1700
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Keshena Man Indicted after Prohibited Possession of Firearms, Pointing Firearm at Tribal Police OfficerRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 21, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment against a man allegedly involved in firearms offenses during an incident at a residence on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The indictment charged Lowell V. Reed (age: 44) of Keshena as follows:
COUNT
CHARGE
PENALTY
One
Felon in Possession of a Firearm, 18 USC §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2)
Up to 10 years in prison.
Two
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, 18 USC §§ 113(a)(3) and 1153(a)
Up to 10 years in prison
Three
Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, 18 USC § 924(c)
Mandatory minimum 7 consecutive years in prison, up to life in prison.
If convicted, Reed faces the imposition of fines and a term of supervised release in addition to the imprisonment listed above.
According to the indictment, on or about June 26, 2020, Reed possessed two firearms at a residence on the Menominee Indian Reservation, despite knowing he was prohibited from doing so. During an incident that day, he allegedly pointed a shotgun at a tribal police officer.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a federal, state, and local law enforcement collaboration to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals responsible for violent crimes in our neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods’ strategy brings together all levels of law enforcement and community resources to reduce violent crime and improve the quality of life in all our neighborhoods.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://go.usa.gov/xpBrs
The Menominee Tribal Police Department investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier will prosecute.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales, (414) 297-1700
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Twice Convicted Child Sex Offender Indicted for Receipt and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 21, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against Darrin S. McElhatton (age: 40) of Appleton, Wisconsin.
McElhatton faces charges alleging he received child pornography contrary to Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(a)(2)(A) and that he possessed child pornography in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(a)(5)(B). The indictment alleges that McElhatton received and possessed digital videos and images of prepubescent boys in the act of being sexually abused.
In 2011, McElhatton was convicted of sexual exploitation of a child in Green Lake County Circuit Court. Following a prison sentence, he was convicted again in 2014 in Outagamie Circuit Court for the possession of child pornography. He is required to register as a sexual offender under the laws of the State of Wisconsin. Based on his prior record, McElhatton faces a mandatory 15 years’ imprisonment and up to 40 years imprisonment if convicted of the charges.
This case was investigated by the Grand Chute Police Department and the Wisconsin Department of Community Corrections. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
# # #
For further information contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales,
(414) 297-1700
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Manitowoc Man Indicted on Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 21, 2020, a federal grand jury indictment was issued against Keynan J. Juul (age: 23) of Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
The indictment alleges that Juul possessed in excess of 50 grams of actual methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a) and 841(b)(1)(A). “Actual” methamphetamine possesses a high level of purity and is also known as “crystal” methamphetamine or “ice.” If convicted of that charge, Juul faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment and up to a life sentence. He faces a fine of up to $10,000,000 and from five years to a lifetime on supervised release.
This case was investigated by the City of Two Rivers Police Department and the Manitowoc County Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Group. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales, (414) 297-1700
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Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to 25 years in Prison for Sex Offenses Against Two Minors, One an Appleton Area ResidentRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 20, 2020, Cort W. Davis II (age: 32) of Rochester, New York, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison by Senior District Judge William C. Griesbach.
Davis, a registered sexual offender in the State of New York, initiated an online relationship with two children, one living in the Appleton, Wisconsin area, and the other living in Southern California. He identified himself online as “Caleb” and purported to be 19 years-old. In April of 2018, Davis travelled to Southern California where he rented a motel room and sexually abused a 14 year-old minor over a number of days, engaging in an array of sadomasochistic behavior and other forms of violent abuse. David then departed California for Wisconsin where he sexually abused a 13 year-old minor outside the Fox River Mall and days later at a nearby motel he procured to carry out his abuse. Investigators arrested Davis at the motel and, ultimately, uncovered digital videos of Davis sexually abusing the children after examining his cell phone.
Davis was convicted of “Possessing Sexual Performance by a Child Under 16 Years-Old” in Monroe County, New York, in 2015. He was required to register as a sexual offender until 2021. In 2017, Davis was convicted of “Failure to Report a Change in Address or Status by a Sex Offender” in Henrietta, New York.
In handing down the sentence, Judge Griesbach admonished Davis for his “horrible offenses” and for “stealing the girls’ innocence.” He noted that there were few mitigating factors considering the defendant’s actions and his previous criminal record. He further stated his belief that a 25-year prison sentence was both “just” and lengthy enough to protect the community. Upon the completion of his federal prison sentence, the defendant will serve the remainder of his life on supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Appleton Police Department, the Grand Chute Police Department, the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales, (414) 297-1700
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Waukesha bar owner sentenced to 15 years for Arson and related chargesRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 16, 2020, Brian Whitton (age: 42) of Waukesha, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison. Whitton was found guilty following a jury trial last February of arson of a commercial building, two counts of mail fraud, arson to commit another felony offense, and making a false statement to law enforcement agents in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 844(i), 844(h), 1001, and 1341.
The jury found that Whitton intentionally set fire to his business, a bar called “The Stage Off Main” located at 854 Martin Street in Waukesha, Wisconsin, on March 25, 2017. The evidence at trial revealed that the fire originated in the basement of the building and included surveillance video that captured Whitton quickly exiting the basement, emptying the cash registers, and leaving the bar approximately 18 seconds before smoke started to fill the first floor of the building.
The fire was set around 3:00 a.m. when the upper apartment unit in the building was occupied by Whitton’s two tenants and their guest. Fortunately, no citizens or first responders were injured as a result of the fire but the building sustained damage. Whitton, who was experiencing financial difficulty at the time, submitted a fraudulent proof of loss claim to his insurance carrier, United States Liability Insurance Company, LLC (“USLI”), in which he falsely claimed that the fire was the result of an accident. Whitton also repeatedly lied about his activities immediately preceding the fire to investigators.
Senior District Judge William C. Griesbach characterized arson as a “horrendous crime” and noted, “This is behavior that no people of civilized society can tolerate.” Whitton will also be required to spend 3 years on supervised release following his prison sentence and was ordered to pay $161,833.07 in restitution to USLI.
United States Attorney Krueger stated, “This substantial prison sentence should serve as a warning to anyone who thinks arson is acceptable in any circumstance. The United States Attorney’s Office commends the dedicated work of our law enforcement partners in holding Whitton accountable.”
The case was jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”), the Waukesha Police Department and the Waukesha Fire Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kelly B. Watzka and Timothy W. Funnell.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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For further information contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales, (414) 297-1700
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Two Rivers Man Indicted on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 14, 2020, a federal grand jury indictment was issued against Jonathon A. Erickson, a/k/a “Jonathon A. Jimenez” (age: 29) of Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
The indictment alleges that Erickson possessed an assortment of illegal narcotics, including MDMA, Oxycodone, Clonazepam, Alprazolam, and Marijuana with the intent to distribute them in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a) and 841(b)(1)(C). If convicted of that charge, Erickson faces up to 20 years of imprisonment. He is additionally charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, contrary to Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(c)(1)(A). He faces up to 10 years of imprisonment for possessing a firearm as a felon, and a mandatory 5 years of imprisonment up to a lifetime of imprisonment for possessing the firearm in furtherance of drug distribution.
This case was investigated by the City of Manitowoc Police Department and the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Neenah Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 14, 2020, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Jesse K. Bell (age: 32) of Neenah, Wisconsin.
According to the indictment, in May of 2020, Bell was in possession of pornographic images of children under 12 years old. Bell is charged with one count of possession of child pornography, contrary to Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(5)(b). He faces a sentence of up to 20 years of incarceration in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Neenah Police Department with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Brown County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Former Bank Executive Sentenced for Using Bank Funds for Luxury Vacations and Other Personal ExpensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger announced that on July 8, 2020, Archie G. Overby (age 71; formerly of Waupaca, Wisconsin, and currently of Parker, Texas) was sentenced in federal court following his guilty plea to misapplication of funds by a bank officer, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 656.
According to court filings, Overby had been the President, Chief Operating Officer, and Chairman of the Board of First National Bank in Waupaca. Pursuant to a plea agreement, Overby admitted that starting by 2010 and continuing through 2013, he caused the bank to pay for $1.6 million in travel, entertainment, and other personal expenses for himself, family members, friends, and associates, all of which had no legitimate banking purpose. The expenses included airfare, lodging, and a climbing expedition to Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, as well as stays at a spa in Arizona and in villas in St. Maarten.
The criminal case followed a civil action by the Office of the Comptroller of Currency (OCC), the bank’s federal regulator. That case, which Overby settled in 2017, resulted in his lifetime prohibition from participation in the financial institution industry, and his agreement to pay $1.6 million in restitution and a $100,000 civil money penalty. After the settlement, however, Overby released a statement asserting that he had admitted no wrongdoing and “never would.” He described the regulator as “overzealous,” claimed to be the victim, and alleged that the regulator improperly had sought to “tarnish his reputation.” As part of his guilty plea, Overby acknowledged not only his criminal conduct but also that the OCC had acted properly and within the bounds of its authority.
Pursuant to the plea agreement accepted by the Court, Senior United States District Court Judge William C. Griesbach did not impose a prison sentence.
Instead, because of Overby’s age and documented and significant health issues, and the potential impact of COVID-19, Judge Griesbach ordered Overby to pay $1.6 million in restitution and forfeit $146,023.35 to the United States.
Judge Griesbach noted that Overby’s criminal conduct, which had gone on for years, was serious and hard to understand, particularly in light of the fact that Overby had been “so well compensated.” Judge Griesbach concluded that it was a betrayal of trust that could only be attributed to “greed and callous disregard for others.” Judge Griesbach explained that “in ordinary circumstances, this case would call for a guideline prison sentence.” However, Judge Griesbach found that due to Overby’s age and demonstrated health issues, exposure to COVID-19 in prison could amount to a death sentence. As such, Judge Griesbach accepted the recommendation that Overby receive a non-custodial sentence.
United States Attorney Krueger stated, “This case serves as an example that professionals who abuse their positions of trust will be held accountable. For years, Archie Overby used his position and authority to treat himself and his family to lavish vacations and to use the financial institution he oversaw as his personal piggy bank. When caught, he tried to portray himself as a victim. I commend the determined work of the regulators and the criminal investigators in bringing Mr. Overby to justice.”
Special Agent in Charge John T. Crawford, FDIC Office of Inspector General, Chicago Region stated “Overby’s guilty plea and sentencing should serve as a warning to others who take advantage of the financial institution industry. Regulators are put in place to monitor the financial industry and law enforcement is at the ready to assist when fraudster’s take advantage of the industry. In this case, our Office, the regulators, and the USAO worked to together to ensure Overby took responsibility for his actions, paid for his actions, and can no longer be in a position to commit further financial institution fraud.”
This case was investigated by Special Agents of the Federal Deposit Corporation-Office of Inspector General and United States Department of Treasury-Office of Inspector General.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carol L. Kraft.
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Aggravated Assault on Menominee Indian Reservation Leads to Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that a man received a sentence related to his involvement in an October 2019 aggravated assault on the Menominee Indian Reservation. Frank J. Sackatook III (age: 38), formerly of Neopit, will serve 90 months in prison, followed by 36 months on supervised release. Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach imposed the sentence on July 9, 2020 in United States District Court in Green Bay. Sackatook pleaded guilty on February 4, 2020, to Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 113(a)(6) and 1153(a).
According to court records, an investigation revealed that on or about October 17, 2019, Sackatook struck a woman with his fists and repeatedly kicked her in the head with steel-toed boots, causing her to sustain bleeding on the brain requiring multiple hospitalizations, surgical intervention, and lasting effects. The incident occurred on the side of a road inside the Menominee Indian Reservation.
In sentencing Sackatook, Judge Griesbach noted the “brutality” of the crime and pointed out that the assault was unprovoked. Judge Griesbach also remarked upon Sackatook’s prior history of violence and the need to deter others from similar conduct.
The Menominee Tribal Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier prosecuted.
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Operation Kick Boxer Continues to Have Local Impact with Arrest and Charges Against Indiana Man Who Travelled to Wisconsin for Sex with a 15-Year-OldRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that Ronald P. Ortega (age: 47) of Dyer, Indiana, was charged via a criminal complaint following his July 6, 2020, arrest by local and federal authorities.
Ortega’s arrest coincided with Monday’s announcement of Operation Kick Boxer, a collaborative effort involving the Milwaukee Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, and the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office. (https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/milwaukee/news/press-releases/international-operation-targeting-individuals-sexually-abusing-children-and-distributing-child-sexual-abuse-materials).
According to the complaint and supporting affidavit, Ortega began exchanging instant messages with “Lisa,” whom he believed to be the mother of a 15-year-old girl living in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The complaint also alleges that Ortega expressed repeated interest in engaging in sexual activity with the 15-year-old and looked forward to “taking her virginity.” According to the complaint, Ortega also sent pornographic images of children to “Lisa” and expressed an interest in digitally recording the sexual intercourse between himself and her child.
“Lisa” was, in fact, a law enforcement agent working as a part of Operation Kick Boxer. Ortega was arrested after leaving the hotel room he had procured in preparation for meeting the child.
Ortega faces charges of using a computer to attempt to persuade, induce, or entice a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2422(b), and attempted production of child pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a).
He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to a lifetime of imprisonment if convicted of those charges. He was ordered detained pending trial.
A criminal complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood, marshals, federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Department of Justice Awards $2.2 Million for Innovative Community Policing ProjectsRead the Press Release
Door County Sheriff's Department Receives Grant for Officer Safety and Wellness Project.
U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Krueger joined the Department of Justice in announcing $2.2 million in grant funding to law enforcement agencies and stakeholders through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) Community Policing Development (CPD) Microgrants Program. COPS Office Director Phil Keith announced 29 awards with award amounts ranging from $15,090 to $100,000.
In the Eastern District of Wisconsin, Door County Officer Safety and Wellness Project was awarded $30,000.
“The CPD Microgrants Program is a critical resource to advance innovative community policing projects across the country,” said Director Keith. “These strategic investments from the COPS Office pay huge dividends to state and local law enforcement agencies and the communities that they serve.”
CPD Microgrants Program funds are used to develop the capacity of local, state, and tribal law enforcement agencies to implement community policing strategies. Applicants were invited to propose demonstration or pilot projects to be implemented in their agency that offer creative ideas to advance crime fighting, community engagement, problem solving, or organizational changes to support community policing in one of the following areas:
- Human Trafficking
- Meeting Rural Law Enforcement Challenges
- Officer Safety and Wellness
- Recruitment, Hiring, and Retention
- School Safety
- Staffing and Allocation Studies
- Victim-Centered Approaches
- Violent Crime
- Youth Engagement
Funding through this program is available for the first time since 2018, following the successful removal of a nationwide injunction. These awards are being announced at a critical time for our country, when community policing strategies are very much needed to improve police and community relations.
The complete list of awards can be found here https://cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/2020AwardDocs/cpdmicrogrants/Award_List.pdf. To learn more about CPD Microgrants, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/cpdmicrogrants. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
# # # #Former Milwaukee County Register of Deeds Charged with Wire FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger announced that, on June 25, 2020, he issued a one-count information charging John La Fave (age: 70) with wire fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, and that La Fave has entered into an agreement to plead guilty to the charge.
According to the information, La Fave, who was the Milwaukee County Register of Deeds, devised and executed a scheme to defraud Milwaukee County and to obtain money by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses and representations. The scheme concerned La Fave’s dealings with “Individual A,” who worked for “Business A,” a company that provided redacting and document indexing services for Milwaukee County. The essence of the scheme was that La Fave directed Individual A to create fraudulent invoices that made it appear that Business A had done specified work for the Milwaukee County Register of Deeds Office when, as La Fave knew, Business A had not actually performed that work. As alleged, Business A would hold the money “on account” for La Fave to direct to be paid to other, third-party vendors who actually performed the work. Most of those third-party vendors were not authorized to be paid through the Milwaukee County accounts payable process, and some were employees of the Milwaukee County Register of Deeds Office.
United States Attorney Krueger commented, “My office will not hesitate to prosecute public officials who abuse their positions of trust.”
If convicted, La Fave faces a maximum of 20 years of imprisonment, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office, and the Office of the Comptroller-Milwaukee County Audit Services Division investigated the case. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Greg Haanstad and William Lipscomb.
An information is only a charging document, and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Oshkosh Man Arrested on Federal Child Pornography Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on June 23, 2020, a federal grand jury handed down an indictment alleging that Martin E. McKeever (age: 51) of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, possessed and distributed child pornography in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252A(a)(2)(A) and 2252A(a)(5)(B).
McKeever is charged with two counts of distributing child pornography. Each count carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years of incarceration in federal prison upon conviction. He faces an additional charge of possession of child pornography, which carries a sentence of up to ten years’ imprisonment.
McKeever was arraigned on June 25, 2020, at 11:30 a.m. before the federal district court in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Milwaukee Office, the Sheboygan County Sheriff’s Office, and the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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For Additional Information Contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales 414-297-1700
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Department of Justice Announces $42 Million to Combat Illegal Manufacture and Distribution of Methamphetamine and OpioidsRead the Press Release
Wisconsin Department of Justice was awarded $1,000,000.00
Today, U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Krueger joined the Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) to announce nearly $42 million in funding to support state-level law enforcement agencies in combating the illegal manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and prescription opioids.
“Drug overdoses continue to take lives and destroy families at a horrific pace in Wisconsin,” said U.S. Attorney Krueger. “These federal funds will save lives by reducing the flow of opioids and methamphetamine that lead to overdoses.”
“The scourge of opioid and methamphetamine use continues to take a devastating toll on our nation’s communities,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “By providing these resources to law enforcement to help combat the further spread, the COPS Office is demonstrating our commitment to this Administration’s priority of reducing drug use and protecting our citizens from this public health and safety crisis.”
Drug overdose deaths and opioid-involved deaths continue to increase in the United States. Deaths from drug overdose are up among both men and women, all races, and adults of nearly all ages, with more than three out of five drug overdose deaths involving an opioid. More than 130 people die every day in the United States after overdosing on opioids, while methamphetamine continues to be one of the most commonly misused stimulant drugs in the world and is the drug that most contributes to violent crime.
The COPS Office is awarding more than $29.7 million in grant funding to 14 state law enforcement agency task forces through the Anti-Heroin Task Force Program (AHTF). AHTF provides three years of funding directly to state-level law enforcement agencies with multijurisdictional reach and interdisciplinary team (e.g., task force) structures, in states with high per capita rates of primary treatment admissions for heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and other opioids. This funding will support the location or investigation of illicit activities through statewide collaboration related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids.
Through the COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program (CAMP), the COPS Office is also awarding $12 million to 12 state law enforcement agencies. These state agencies have demonstrated numerous seizures of precursor chemicals, finished methamphetamine, laboratories, and laboratory dump seizures. State agencies are being awarded three years of funding through CAMP to support the location or investigation of illicit activities related to the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine, including precursor diversion, laboratories, or methamphetamine trafficking. The Wisconsin Department of Justice was awarded $1,000,000.00
The AHTF and CAMP funding has a tremendous impact on state investigative and seizure work. During the five month period between October 2019 and February 2020, current AHTF grantees reported the seizure of over $4 million in cash and 1,213 firearms. Similarly, for CAMP, grantees reported seizures of more than $7 million in cash and 1,577 firearms.
The complete list of Anti-Heroin Task Force Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/ahtf-award
The complete list of COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program award recipients, including funding amounts, can be found here:
https://cops.usdoj.gov/camp-award
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 135,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training and technical assistance. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales 414-297-1700
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Neopit Woman Indicted for Felony Child Abuse on the Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on June 16, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment against a woman allegedly involved in felony child abuse against a child on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The indictment named Markala K. Waukau (age: 18) of Neopit.
The indictment charged Waukau with Felony Child Abuse in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1153(a) and Wis. Stat. § 948.02(b)(2). If convicted, Waukau faces a maximum of three years in prison, up to a $10,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.
According to the indictment, on or about January 6, 2020, the defendant struck a child under the age of one with an elbow while at a residence on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The child’s injuries included a fractured skull and hematomas.
The Menominee Tribal Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, which will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Keshena Man Indicted for Domestic Violence on the Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on June 16, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment against a man allegedly involved in domestic violence against a woman on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The indictment named Justin M. Moore (age: 35) of Keshena.
The indictment charged Moore with Domestic Assault by Strangulation in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 113(a)(8). If convicted, Moore faces a maximum of ten years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.
According to the indictment, on or about December 1, 2019, the defendant strangled a woman with whom he had a dating relationship on the Menominee Indian Reservation.
The Menominee Tribal Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, which will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Department of Justice Announces Launch of Civil Rights Reporting PortalRead the Press Release
A new online tool designed to help the public report civil rights violations
U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Krueger joined the Department of Justice in announcing the launch of the Civil Rights Reporting Portal. This new online tool will make it easier for the public to report a civil rights violation.
“The department is committed to upholding the civil and constitutional rights of all people in the United States,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Reporting Portal will make it easier for the public to connect with us, which in turn makes us more effective at upholding these important rights. I encourage the public to use this portal to report civil rights violations.”
The new Civil Rights Reporting Portal – located at civilrights.justice.gov – will consolidate over 30 unique reporting pathways. The portal will dramatically ease the burden on victims of civil rights violations to identify the proper reporting channel. The form is fully accessible to people with disabilities. It is also available in both English and Spanish, with more languages to be added over the next year.
Individuals who believe they may have been a victim of a civil rights violation can learn how to report violations to the Department by visiting civilrights.justice.gov. When appropriate, the Civil Rights Division staff will refer complainants to other agencies that are responsible for handling specific types of complaints.
Individuals who believe they are a victim of criminal violation of their civil rights, such as misconduct by law enforcement officers, a hate crime, or human trafficking, should contact their local FBI office.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales 414-297-1700
Retaliating Against a Witness Who Provided Information to Law Enforcement About Neopit Woman’s Drug Dealing Leads to Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that a woman received a sentence related to her involvement in a July 2019 fatal drug overdose on the Menominee Indian Reservation. Elmira J. Corn (Age: 29), formerly of Neopit, which is on the Menominee Indian Reservation, will serve 24 months in prison, followed by 36 months on supervised release. Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach imposed the sentence on June 9, 2020 in United States District Court in Green Bay. Corn pleaded guilty on December 30, 2020, to Obstructing Justice by Retaliating Against a Witness in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1513(b)(2) and 2.
The investigation revealed that in the early morning hours of July 9, 2019, Corn and another individual delivered a pill containing Fentanyl to another person at a residence in Neopit. The second person, identified as Leon Caldwell (age: 37), consumed part of the pill and died of a fentanyl overdose a few hours later. Witnesses revealed Corn purchased a number of pills from a source in Milwaukee a few days prior. Corn consumed and sold some of the pills, and gave one to another person shortly before he shared half of the pill with Caldwell.
While tribal and federal investigators interviewed witnesses and put together the case, Corn accosted a witness and threatened the person for cooperating with law enforcement and providing truthful information about Corn’s drug dealing. Corn’s threats culminated on October 6, 2019, when Corn and others found the witness outside a house in Neopit. Corn then encouraged another woman to attack the witness. The assault, coordinated by Corn, resulted in the woman sustaining neck, head, and arm injuries. Tribal and federal investigators arrested Corn on October 10, 2019, after a federal criminal complaint was filed in United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin in Green Bay.
In sentencing Corn, Judge Griesbach noted the seriousness of the crimes the defendant committed, and pointed out “this was an assault not just of the victim but of the whole justice system.” Judge Griesbach also remarked upon Corn’s prior history of violence in tribal court matters, and the need to send a message not just to the defendant but the entire community: “This behavior is not going to be tolerated.”
The Menominee Tribal Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier prosecuted.
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Indiana Man Who Trekked on Foot to Meet Wisconsin Minor Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on June 15, 2020, Tommy Lee Jenkins (age: 33) of Whitestown, Indiana, was sentenced to ten years in federal prison by Senior District Judge William C. Griesbach.
Starting on October 1, 2019, Jenkins, who had recently moved from Oshkosh, Wisconsin to Whitestown, Indiana, began exchanging instant messages with “Kylee” whom he believed to be a 14 year-old girl living in Neenah, Wisconsin with her mother. Jenkins began demanding sexually explicit photographs from “Kylee” and making plans to engage in sexual activity with the minor. When his numerous requests for “Kylee” to join him in Indiana were rebuffed, Jenkins began walking the 351-mile trek from Whitestown, Indiana to Neenah, Wisconsin. Along the way, Jenkins continued to engage “Kylee” in sexually explicit conversations and updated her as to his current location.
“Kylee” was, in fact, a Winnebago County Sheriff’s Deputy assigned to the Internet Crimes Against Children (“ICAC”) Task Force. Upon his arrival in Winnebago County, sheriff’s deputies and a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation placed Jenkins under arrest.
Jenkins was convicted of state charges of child abuse in 2011. At the sentencing hearing, the government detailed for the court numerous incidents in the eight years following that conviction wherein Jenkins was alleged to have sexually abused minors and others.
In handing down the sentence, Judge Griesbach noted the serious nature of the charge and a strong need to protect the public and deter Jenkins from abusing children in the future. Following his release from prison, Jenkins will spend the remainder of his life on supervised release. He will also have to register as a sexual offender.
“Because of the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office’s and the FBI’s excellent work, Tommy Lee Jenkins will not be able to prey on any more children,” said United States Attorney Krueger.
This case was investigated by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble and Julie F. Stewart.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Alabama Man Sentenced for Enticing a Wisconsin Minor to Engage in IncestRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on June 15, 2020, Tyler A. Blackmon (age: 29) of Prattville, Alabama, was sentenced to ten years in federal prison by Senior District Judge William C. Griesbach.
On four occasions between September 27, 2018, and October 10, 2018, Blackmon used a popular messaging application to entice a Wisconsin child identified in the indictment as “Minor Child A” to engage in acts of incest with a sibling, a felony under Wisconsin law.
In handing down the sentence, Judge Griesbach noted the serious nature of the charge and noted the “vile nature” of the messages sent by Blackmon and the distressing effect those communications had on his victim and sibling. Following his release from prison, Blackmon will spend ten years on supervised release. He will also have to register as a sexual offender.
“Protecting children from predators like Tyler Blackmon requires dedicated, professional law enforcement efforts,” said United States Attorney Krueger. “I commend the excellent work of the Seymore Police Department, along with the Prattville Police Department, to bring Blackmon to justice.”
This case was investigated by the Seymour Police Department with the assistance of the Prattville Police Department in Alabama. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales 414-297-1700
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Oshkosh Resident Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that Brian G. Galston (age 36) of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach for being a felon in possession of a firearm, contrary to 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g). Galston received a 60-month prison term and was ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release following the prison term. With Galston’s consent, the sentencing was conducted via Zoom video conferencing.
According to the plea agreement and other court documents, a confidential informant advised Oshkosh Police Department (OPD) that Brian Galston, a convicted felon, was selling drugs from his apartment in Oshkosh. On May 13, 2019, OPD officers were dispatched to the apartment in response to a domestic dispute involving Galston. When OPD executed a search warrant at the apartment, officers found a loaded, Glock .45 pistol under the mattress of the bed in the master bedroom.
On June 3, 2019, OPD met with a second confidential informant, who advised that he had been purchasing crack from Galston since 2017. The informant stated he provided two firearms to Galston, including the Glock .45 pistol, as collateral for obtaining crack. The informant indicated that he has been trying to persuade Galston to return the firearm but he refused to do so and instead was threatened by Galston.
In imposing sentence, Judge Griesbach stressed that Galston’s prior record, including delivery of cocaine, child abuse, and other violent criminal convictions, warranted a significant sentence in order to protect the community and deter others from engaging in that type of conduct. Judge Griesbach also cited the need for a significant prison term because Galston possessed the firearm while involved in drug dealing.
This case was investigated by the Oshkosh Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William Roach.
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Milwaukee Man Charged with Federal Offense Aiming a Laser Pointer at Law Enforcement AircraftRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on June 8, 2020, his office filed a federal criminal complaint against Jeremiah Belen (age: 38) of Milwaukee. The complaint charges Belen with aiming a laser beam at aircraft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 39A. If convicted, Belen would face a maximum of 5 years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine.
According to the criminal complaint, from May 31, 2020, through June 7, 2020, there were several incidents of individuals pointing green laser beams at law enforcement aircraft operated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) and the Wisconsin National Guard (“WNG”). The beam is potentially blinding to pilots, and has the potential of creating a dangerous incident. On the evening of June 7, 2020, law enforcement agents on the ground observed two individuals near W. Chambers Street and N. 1st Street in the City of Milwaukee pointing a green laser beam at an FBI airplane. One of the individuals pointing the laser beam matched the description of Jeremiah Belen. On June 8, 2020, Belen was arrested and made an initial appearance in federal court.
The FBI investigated the case, which will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Margaret Honrath.
A criminal complaint is merely a formal method of charging an individual and does not constitute an inference of his or her guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until such time, if ever, that the government establishes his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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U.S. Attorney Matthew Krueger delivers remarks regarding demonstrations in Milwaukee, prosecuting violent crimes, and police accountabilityRead the Press Release
Following are remarks from U.S. Attorney Matthew Krueger as prepared for a press conference to announce federal charges against a Milwaukee man for an attempted arson.
“Good afternoon. Thank you for coming here today. I’ll be announcing federal charges that have been filed related to an attempted arson last Sunday evening in Milwaukee.
The charges arose out of the civil unrest that swept over Milwaukee last weekend following the killing of George Floyd. I wish to again express my deepest sympathies to the family of George Floyd. I was appalled and deeply troubled by the video of the police conduct depicted there.
There will be accountability for his death. State charges have already been issued. The Justice Department is conducting an independent, federal investigation into his death. That is part of what the Justice Department routinely does. The Department has a long-standing commitment to enforcing civil rights laws. That commitment exists here in Milwaukee, too, where my office and the FBI regularly review alleged civil rights violations.
The protests, of course, are not only about George Floyd’s death. The protests are also about all of the individuals who, over the years, have been unjustifiably killed or had their rights violated by people entrusted with their protection.
Law enforcement officers are held—and should be held—to the highest standards to enforce the law fairly, to protect all lives, and to ensure that racism plays no role in law enforcement. That is the promise of our Constitution. That is the commitment of state and local law enforcement leaders here in Wisconsin. That is the commitment of the Justice Department.
The past week has seen a second challenge to the rule of law. Although most have expressed their grief and anger peacefully, others have exploited the situation to commit crimes. We’ve seen in cities across the country rioting, looting, arsons, and attacks on police and other individuals. The individuals engaging in such acts are tearing us apart at a time when we need to come together, and they are drowning out voices that call for constructive change. That has to stop. That leads to the charges I’m announcing today.
A federal criminal complaint charges Tyshaun Smith with attempted arson of a Boost Mobile store at 949 North 27th Street. According to the complaint, on May 31, 2020, at approximately 11:03 p.m., Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) officers responded to a 911 call regarding an entry into the Boost Mobile store. When officers arrived, Tyshaun Smith and two other individuals were standing outside of the store next to a broken window. Smith was holding what appeared to be a burning Molotov cocktail. An officer observed Smith throw the Molotov cocktail into the store. Smith and others then ran from the scene. Smith fell and was arrested. When arrested, Smith’s sweatshirt and gloves were coated in gasoline, and he was in possession of a loaded 9 mm firearm. Police were able to extinguish the burning Molotov cocktail in the store before it caused substantial damage, and recovered it.
The complaint charges Smith with attempted arson and with possession of a destructive device. If convicted of the attempted arson, he faces a mandatory minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 20 years in federal prison. If convicted of possession of the destructive device, he would face up to 10 years in federal prison. Please note that a criminal complaint states allegations only, and no one is guilty until proven so beyond a reasonable doubt. The case was investigated by the Milwaukee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
In the past week, over 100 businesses in Milwaukee have been damaged in various ways. The Boost Mobile store damaged in this case served Milwaukee residents. Its owners and employees had done nothing wrong and yet were victimized.
It is not just Milwaukee’s local businesses that have been harmed during the unrest. Last Friday night, a Milwaukee police officer suffered a minor gunshot injury. We’re thankful that it was not worse. Two nights ago, two officers and a pedestrian were injured by a reckless driver. The pedestrian was hospitalized with significant injuries. Again, last night, after midnight, there were large groups of vehicles driving recklessly, endangering the drivers and others. These are not actions of protest. These actions are not First Amendment speech. These actions are not helping our community. They are senseless acts of violence that create more victims.
That is why the Justice Department is working closely with our state and local partners to address this violence and ensure public safety. Now, to be clear, law enforcement is not trying to prevent peaceful protests. From my vantage point of speaking with federal officials across the country, I can say that the law enforcement response in Milwaukee has generally been excellent. Law enforcement officers working long hours are seeking to ensure peaceful protests can continue, while still protecting lives and property from damage. Late at night, after the organized protests have ended, men and women in uniform are generally acting very professionally, with restraint, even in the face of angry crowds threatening police buildings and vehicles.
Ask yourself, what if law enforcement did not have the resources to react quickly to the entry at the Boost Mobile store? The Boost Mobile store would have likely been destroyed. Mr. Smith would not be brought to justice.
This is a time to come together in peaceful ways, to hear from each other, and to build trust. Lawlessness by anyone—by police, or by rioters—prevents that dialogue. So, I want to say thanks again to the men and women of uniform who have been working such long hours to allow constructive dialogue to continue while preventing further harm to innocent people in our city.”
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