Western District of Wisconsin
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Office Manager for Veterinary Hospital Sentenced to 1 Year for Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Joleen Minnich, 41, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William Conley to 12 months and one day in prison for wire fraud and filing a false tax return. Minnich pleaded guilty to these charges on April 25, 2022,
The investigation revealed that between 2014 and 2017, Minnich used her position as office manager for County Veterinary Hospital in Bloomer, Wisconsin, to embezzle approximately $224,596 from the business’ bank account by creating 204 fraudulent checks to herself. The fraudulent checks fell into three categories. First, Minnich generated non-payroll checks to herself and failed to enter the checks into the accounting software program known as QuickBooks. Second, Minnich used QuickBooks to generate flexible spending checks to herself but failed to use the majority of the funds for out-of-pocket health care costs as required. Third, Minnich used QuickBooks to generate health insurance checks to herself but failed to use the majority of the funds for health insurance costs.
In addition, as the office manager, Minnich was responsible for remitting County Veterinary Hospital’s payroll taxes to the IRS. During her plea hearing, Minnich admitted that she failed to remit the payroll taxes because she used those funds to hide her embezzlement. To conceal her conduct, Minnich created false entries in QuickBooks showing she had remitted the payroll taxes. Minnich also admitted that she failed to report the embezzled funds on her personal 2017 tax return.
At the sentencing hearing, Judge Conley stated that the severity of Minnich’s conduct and the length of the fraud were aggravating factors. Judge Conley also noted that the owner of County Veterinary Hospital was a longtime family friend of Minnich and her decision to embezzle money from the business was a “special type of betrayal.” At the conclusion of the sentencing hearing, Judge Conley ordered Minnich to pay a total of $278,445 in restitution for her embezzlement scheme and tax crime.
The charges against Minnich were a result of an investigation conducted by IRS Criminal Investigation. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner.
Former St. Croix Casino General Manager Sentenced to 18 Months for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Leva Oustigoff Jr., 60, Cumberland, Wisconsin was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 18 months in federal prison for making false statements on his taxes. Oustigoff pleaded guilty to this charge on March 29, 2022.
Between 2015 and 2018, Oustigoff filed false tax returns by failing to report over $130,000 in income derived from money he embezzled from the St. Croix Turtle Lake Casino, operated by the St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin. Oustigoff, a tribal member, was general manager of the St. Croix casinos during this time. He used the money for various personal expenses, including remodeling and construction on his personal residence. The unreported income amounted to a tax loss of just over $40,000.
In sentencing Oustigoff to prison, Judge Conley wanted to send a message to the Tribe that the Court took seriously that its leaders cavalierly took money from the Tribe to line their own pockets instead of helping the larger community. The Court observed that Oustigoff was a trusted steward who took advantage of his position. Finally, Judge Conley cautioned that while this may have been the “way of doing business,” it is unhealthy and cynical, and must stop. During his sentencing, Oustigoff told the Court that he convinced himself that using the money for home improvements was legitimate, but that he knew deep down it was not.
The charge against Oustigoff was the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General, and IRS Criminal Investigation, with the cooperation of the St. Croix Tribe.
Merrill Man Sentenced to 14 Years for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Matthew White, 37, Wausau, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 14 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. White pleaded guilty to this charge on March 14, 2022.
The investigation revealed that White received a total of three pounds of methamphetamine from his co-defendants Levi Bagne and Cory Freyermuth between July 23 and August 10, 2020, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. In addition, on July 28, 2020, a confidential informant purchased three ounces of methamphetamine from White in Wausau. On the day of his arrest, officers seized $32,400 in drug proceeds belonging to White. Those funds will be forfeited to the United States.
At the sentencing hearing, Judge Peterson described White as living a lifestyle full of drugs and drug dealing and noted his multiple prior felony convictions for drug trafficking and violence. Judge Peterson also concluded that a significant sentence was warranted because White “stepped up to the big leagues” by being extensively involved in a large-scale interstate drug trafficking organization. Finally, Judge Peterson found it was an aggravating factor that White led police on a high-speed car chase prior to his arrest in the case.
The charge against White is the result of a joint investigation by the Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration, Lake Winnebago Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group, and Merrill Police Department. The investigation was conducted and funded by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a multi-agency task force that coordinates long-term narcotics trafficking investigations. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner.
Prairie du Chien Resident Sentenced to 10 Years for Possessing Methamphetamine for DistributionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Christopher Fernette, 45, Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 120 months in federal prison for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Fernette pleaded guilty to this charge on April 6, 2022. Judge Conley also ordered Fernette to forfeit $17,200.
During the course of a long-term, multi-agency investigation, law enforcement officers determined that a group of people, including Fernette, distributed significant amounts of methamphetamine in western Wisconsin. Investigators also learned that Fernette purchased methamphetamine from sources-of-supply who lived in multiple states.
On April 3, 2021, investigators followed Fernette as he and a passenger crossed into Wisconsin from Minnesota. When the car stopped at a tavern in Ferryville, a deputy from the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office approached Fernette and asked for permission to pat him down for weapons. Fernette consented to the pat down but attempted to hide a small plastic baggie in his hand. When the deputy questioned Fernette about the object in his hand, Fernette tossed the baggie and became combative. A fight ensued and the deputy eventually detained Fernette.
After the altercation, the deputy located the baggie and determined that it contained a personal use amount of methamphetamine. The deputy then found a discarded black canvas tool bag in a ditch that contained approximately three pounds of methamphetamine. The deputy used his canine partner to sniff the car that Fernette had been driving. When the canine alerted, investigators searched the car and found $17,200 in cash.
During a post-arrest interview, Fernette waived his Miranda rights and admitted that he and the passenger drove to Minnesota to purchase the methamphetamine found inside the black canvas bag. Fernette also explained that he and the passenger planned to split the methamphetamine with a third person in Wisconsin.
At sentencing, Judge Conley noted that the three pounds of methamphetamine found on April 3, 2021 likely understated the total amount of methamphetamine that Fernette sold on the street.
The charge against Fernette was the result of an investigation conducted by the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Prairie du Chien Police Department, Richland-Iowa-Grant Task Force, Dakota County (Minnesota) Drug Task Force, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma prosecuted this case.
La Crosse Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jeremy Hogenkamp, 45, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 12 ½ years in prison for possessing child pornography. This term of imprisonment will be followed by 25 years of supervised release. Hogenkamp pleaded guilty to this charge on March 8, 2022.
In September 2021, the La Crosse Police Department received a Cybertip regarding images uploaded into a Google Cloud account. Based on the information provided in the Cybertip, a search warrant was obtained for Hogenkamp’s home.
Agents executed the search warrant on October 6, 2021, and found two flip phones in the house. A short time later, the police dispatch center received an anonymous call that Hogenkamp had a laptop at his place of employment. After an initial search at the workplace was unsuccessful, officers received another anonymous call saying they did not look in the right spot. Officers went back to Hogenkamp’s workplace and found a black tote near his work area containing a laptop and a cell phone. Hogenkamp admitted there would be “bad stuff with kids” on the laptop.
A search of the laptop revealed thousands of images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. This is Hogenkamp’s second federal conviction for possessing child pornography. He was on supervision for an offense he committed in 2011 at the time of this offense.
At sentencing, Judge Conley observed that Hogenkamp obviously has an attraction to children that will be a life-long struggle unless he gains some self-awareness. The judge concluded that until that happens, Hogenkamp remains a danger to children.
The charge against Hogenkamp was the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse, Onalaska, Holmen, and Town of Campbell Police Departments and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman prosecuted this case.
Merrill Man Sentenced to More Than 16 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jason D. Ridolfi, 42, Merrill, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 16 ½ years in prison for using a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography. This term of imprisonment is to be followed by 20 years of supervised release. The defendant pleaded guilty to this charge on March 21, 2022.
In November 2020, the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that sexually explicit images of children had been uploaded to Google the month prior. Based on this tip, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Ridolfi’s home and found more than 25,000 images of child pornography, including some the defendant produced, on devices belonging to the defendant.
Judge Conley stated that Ridolfi needed to address his alcoholism and mental health needs to ensure he did not offend again. Judge Conley was also concerned that the defendant’s behavior had escalated from possession of child pornography created by others, to creating it on his own.
The charge against Ridolfi was the result of an investigation conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kenosha Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman prosecuted this case.
Former Executive Director of Madison Daycare Center Sentenced to 30 Months for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Nichole Genz, 41, Evansville, Wisconsin, was sentenced Friday June 24 by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 30 months in federal prison for wire fraud. Judge Peterson also ordered Genz to pay restitution in the amount of $216,561.85. Genz pleaded guilty to the charge on December 3, 2021.
Genz pleaded guilty to committing wire fraud from 2013 to 2018 as part of a scheme to defraud her employer Park Towne Development Corporation (PTD). PTD had various subsidiary entities, including a daycare center called Learning Gardens Child Development Center. Genz worked as the Executive Director at Learning Gardens from September 3, 2013 until October 2, 2018, when she was fired.
Genz and the PTD Accounting Manager participated in a scheme to defraud the company through various methods of embezzlement, which included: (1) diverting Learning Gardens tuition checks into the Learning Gardens petty cash account; (2) cashing altered checks by diverting them to the Learning Gardens petty cash account; (3) creating false bank statements for the Learning Gardens petty cash bank statement that hid the check diversions; and (4) misuse of the company credit card and debit cards for personal purchases. Genz submitted monthly expense reports that falsely coded her personal expenditures as Learning Gardens business expenses, and she attached receipts to the expense reports with handwritten notations falsely indicating the purchases were for Learning Gardens.
At Friday's sentencing hearing, which involved the taking of evidence and lasted over 7 hours, Judge Peterson noted that while the PTD Accounting Manager—who is now deceased—was the primary embezzler in the tuition check diversion part of the fraud scheme, Genz was aware of it and helped cover it up. The judge explained that the PTD Accounting Manager and Genz working together inflicted more harm to the victim company, and made it a more serious crime, than had it been just one person engaged in the scheme. Judge Peterson also told Genz that he did not think she had made a sincere and forthright effort to accept responsibility for her conduct, and that her slow efforts to come to terms with her actions, worried him about her future prospects for not reoffending.
In imposing the 30-month prison sentence, Judge Peterson told Genz he needed to impose such a sentence for specific deterrence – to deter her from future criminal conduct, as well as for general deterrence to the public – that tells future offenders who embezzle from their employers that they will face prison time.
The charges against Genz are the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Graber is handling the prosecution.
Madison Man Sentenced to 3 Years for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that James Gillaum, 33, Madison, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 3 years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Gillaum pleaded guilty to this charge on March 24, 2022.
Gillaum is a felon having convictions for aggravated battery in 2008, burglary in 2011, and possession of heroin with the intent to deliver in 2013. The drug conviction resulted in a prison sentence.
On May 21, 2021, Gillaum pleaded guilty to an unrelated state charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was scheduled for sentencing on July 22, 2021 but failed to appear and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
On August 22, 2021, Madison police officers arrested Gillaum in the area of State Street. When contacted by officers, Gillaum briefly fled before being apprehended. Officers found a loaded 9mm handgun in his underwear.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson said that the court’s primary obligation was to protect the community. Judge Peterson remarked that Gillaum committed a persistent pattern of criminal offenses despite interventions of the criminal justice system and noted that it was particularly aggravating that he armed himself with a gun while pending sentencing on a gun conviction in state court. Judge Peterson ordered the federal sentence to run consecutive to that state gun case, as well as another case where Gillaum is charged with recklessly endangering safety and discharge of a firearm. Gillaum was also ordered to serve 3 years of supervised release after his release.
The charge against Gillaum was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Madison Felon Sentenced to 2 Years for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that James McGowan, Jr., 23, Madison, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James Peterson to 2 years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. McGowan pleaded guilty to this charge on March 30, 2022.
On September 20, 2021, McGowan was a convicted felon and had been released on bail in four state cases with charges including felon in possession of a firearm, felony bail jumping, armed robbery, drug possession, and third-degree sexual assault. Madison police officers were looking for McGowan because he had multiple warrants for his arrest and located him in an apartment parking garage. McGowan attempted to flee from the officers, resisted arrest, and had a loaded 9mm handgun in his waistband.
At sentencing Judge Peterson said that keeping McGowan in the community has not been effective, and that protection of the public was the main sentencing goal. The court observed that by illegally carrying a gun, McGowan was contributing to the risk of petty disputes turning into shootings that can injure or kill those involved as well as bystanders. Judge Peterson said that the person described in the presentence report hurts people, and sentenced McGowan to 2 years in prison consecutive to the sentences in his state cases. After his prison term, McGowan was also ordered to serve 3 years of supervised release.
The charge against McGowan was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Third Defendant Sentenced in Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Moises Amezcua-Cardenas, 21, Schofield, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 18 months in federal prison for his role in a money laundering conspiracy. Amezcua-Cardenas pleaded guilty to the offense on February 24, 2022. Because the defendant had already served that much time in custody, the sentence was considered served.
In November and December 2020, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, together with local law enforcement, investigated a series of thefts by fraud involving individuals who used false pretenses to convince employees of businesses to collect and deliver the businesses’ cash-on-hand to individuals who were supposedly legitimate money couriers. Businesses large and small were targeted in the scheme and the loss to date is approximately $300,000.
Moises Amezcua-Cardenas was one of the individuals that picked up money from employee victims under the false pretenses that he was a legitimate money courier acting on behalf of the victim businesses. He also conducted wire transactions to redirect fraud proceeds back to perpetrators in Mexico. He and his co-defendant, Mario Amezcua-Cardenas, also transported $242,980 in fraud proceeds to another co-defendant Sinval De Oliveira in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on December 2, 2020.
Co-defendant Mario Amezcua-Cardenas, who is Moises Amezcua-Cardenas’s brother, was sentenced to 2 ½ years in federal prison on May 18, 2022. Co-defendant Sinval De Oliveira was sentenced to 5 years on June 8, 2022. All defendants were ordered to pay restitution.
The charges against the defendants were the result of investigations conducted by U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Merrill Police Department, Wausau Police Department, Everest Metropolitan Police Department, West Allis Police Department, Stevens Point Police Department, and Marathon County Sheriff’s Dept. with special assistance from the Marathon County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith P. Duchemin prosecuted this case.
Marketing Agency Owner Sentenced to 12 Months for Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Ryan Weckerly, 48, Sycamore, Illinois, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William Conley to 12 months and 1 day in federal prison for wire fraud and aiding in the preparation of a false tax return. The prison sentence will be followed by 6 months of home confinement and 2 ½ years of supervised release. Weckerly is the owner of two marketing agencies based in Sycamore, Illinois - Morningstar Media Group, and Morningstar Interactive, which did business as Invironments Magazine.
The government’s investigation revealed that between 2015 and 2020, Weckerly and co-defendant Barbara Bortner engaged in a kickback scheme in which Weckerly submitted inflated invoices to Bortner for his marketing work for Mercyhealth. During the scheme, Bortner was the Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at Mercyhealth in Janesville. Once Bortner approved his marketing invoices, Weckerly received payments from Mercyhealth and provided money to Bortner using either cash or checks. In return for the payments, Bortner agreed to use Weckerly’s business, Morningstar Media Group, as the primary marketing agency for Mercyhealth.
In order to disguise the true nature of the kickback payments, Bortner created a fictitious company named WeInspire LLC. During the timeframe of the kickback scheme, Weckerly wrote over 103 checks to WeInspire LLC from one of his business accounts. The cumulative total of these checks was $2,051,975. In addition, bank records show that Weckerly provided Bortner with over $1,000,000 in cash kickback payments.
The Internal Revenue Service initiated an audit of Bortner’s individual tax returns in May 2019. During the audit, Bortner represented to an IRS Revenue Agent during an interview that WeInspire was a legitimate company that performed marketing work for one of Weckerly’s businesses. In an attempt to cover up the kickback scheme, Weckerly provided Bortner with an IRS Form 1099 for WeInspire that purported to include her total compensation from Invironments Magazine. However, on the Form 1099, Weckerly only included the monetary total of the checks written to WeInspire and did not include the cash payments he provided to Bortner. In the months following the interview with the IRS Revenue Agent, Bortner continued to receive kickback payments from Weckerly.
At the conclusion of the sentencing hearing, Judge Conley ordered Weckerly and Bortner to pay $2,428,275 in restitution to Mercyhealth. Bortner was sentenced to 3 ½ years in prison for her role in the offense by Judge Conley on May 2, 2022.
The charges against Weckerly and Bortner were a result of an investigation conducted by IRS Criminal Investigation. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner.
Grand Jury Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Stevens Point Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearm
Lorenzo Miner, 30, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on January 12, 2022, he possessed a Radical Firearms RF-15.
If convicted, Miner faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Stevens Point Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan is handling the prosecution.
Marathon County Man Charged with Distributing Methamphetamine
Kou Yang, 27, Weston, Wisconsin, is charged with 2 counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The indictment alleges that he distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on August 30 and September 8, 2021.
If convicted, Yang faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on each count. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Reinhard is handling the prosecution.
Marathon County Man Charged with Drug Crimes
Lawrence E. Lavergne, 40, Rothschild, Wisconsin, is charged with distributing methamphetamine and possessing methamphetamine for distribution. The indictment alleges that on February 21, 2022, Lavergne distributed methamphetamine and that he possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.
If convicted, Lavergne faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on the distribution charge, and a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years and a maximum of 40 years on the charge of possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
The charges against Lavergne are the result of an investigation by the Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Anderson is handling the prosecution.
Federal Prison Inmate Charged with Possessing Contraband
Matthew S. Kirst, 28, formerly of Muskegon, Michigan, is charged with possessing a prohibited object while an inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution at Oxford, Wisconsin. The indictment alleges that on September 28, 2021, Kirst possessed strips containing Buprenophine, a Schedule III controlled substance.
If convicted, Kirst faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Federal Bureau of Prisons. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Anderson is handling the prosecution.
Sauk County Woman Sentenced to 30 Months for Role in Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Tonia Greenwood, 45, North Freedom, Wisconsin pleaded guilty and was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 30 months in federal prison for her role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. This sentence is to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Greenwood was charged in January 2021 in a multiple-count indictment with conspiring with Douglas Mack, Emily Mack, and D’Angelo Lashore to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. For her role, between January 2019 and May 2020, Greenwood received numerous packages of methamphetamine through the mail from Douglas Mack in Arizona. Greenwood had packages sent to her own home, as well as to addresses of friends and neighbors who were unaware of the contents. She kept some of the drugs for herself and sold the rest in and around Sauk County.
Douglas Mack and Emily Mack, who are siblings, also pleaded guilty to the conspiracy and are scheduled to be sentenced in federal court on July 13 and July 14, 2022, respectively. Lashore pleaded guilty to attempting to possess methamphetamine for distribution and was sentenced to 18 months in prison.
The charge against Greenwood was the result of an investigation conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Madison Police Department, DeForest Police Department, Sauk County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, State Line Area Narcotics Team, and Wisconsin State Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Przybylinski Finn prosecuted this case.
Middleton Man Sentenced to 40 Months for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Ramar A. Brown, 26, Middleton, Wisconsin was sentenced on Friday, June 10 by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 40 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. This prison term will be followed by 36 months of supervised release. Brown pleaded guilty to this charge on March 7, 2022.
On October 12, 2021, Fitchburg Police Department (FPD) officers planned to arrest Ramar Brown who was the subject of unrelated state investigations and was observed operating a stolen vehicle. When officers approached and identified themselves to Brown, he fled. He was eventually apprehended by FPD officers. During his flight, Brown threw a bag to the ground. Officers searched the bag and found a Glock 9mm handgun loaded with a 28-round extended magazine. Brown’s DNA was later found on the Glock handgun.
Brown was prohibited from legally possessing a firearm based on multiple prior felony convictions. At the time of this incident, he was on state extended supervision for a prior armed robbery conviction. His state supervision was revoked in January 2022, and he is currently serving a state prison sentence of just over 2 ½ years on that case. Judge Conley ordered this federal sentence to run concurrently with the remainder of Brown’s state prison sentence.
At sentencing, Judge Conley noted that the handgun being loaded with an extended magazine was an aggravating factor, as was the fact that Brown was on state supervision for armed robbery when he committed this offense.
The charge against Brown was the result of an investigation conducted by the Fitchburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach involves collaboration by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent and deter gun violence.
Madison Man Charged with Drug & Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – A Madison, Wisconsin man is charged with drug and gun crimes in an indictment returned on May 11, 2022, by a federal grand jury sitting in Madison. The charges are announced by Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin.
The indictment charges Michael S. Murphy, 47, with two counts of distributing heroin and fentanyl, one count of distributing heroin, possessing heroin and fentanyl and crack cocaine with intent to distribute, being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The indictment alleges that Murphy distributed a mixture of heroin and fentanyl on October 5 and 13, 2021, distributed heroin on November 30, 2021, and possessed a mixture of heroin and fentanyl as well as crack cocaine for distribution on December 5, 2021. The indictment further alleges that on December 5, 2021, Murphy possessed two 9mm handguns and a .45 caliber handgun, and 9mm, .45 caliber and .380 ammunition, and that he possessed the firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The indictment was unsealed following Murphy’s arrest on June 1 in Madison by the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, pursuant to an arrest warrant issued at the time the indictment was returned. Murphy made an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Madison on June 1 and remains in federal custody. A date has not been set for his next court appearance.
If convicted, Murphy faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on the drug charges, a maximum of 10 years on the charge of being a felon in possession of firearms. The charge of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime has a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years, and federal law requires that any penalty imposed for this charge be served consecutive to any sentence imposed.
The charges against Murphy are the result of an investigation by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Anderson is handling the prosecution.
You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
La Crosse Man Sentenced to 90 Months for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Corey J. Stern, 36, La Crosse, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 90 months in federal prison for possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. This prison term will be followed by 4 years of supervised release. Stern pleaded guilty to this charge on March 3, 2022.
On August 10, 2020, La Crosse Police Department (LCPD) officers purchased 17.6 grams of methamphetamine and 4.4 grams of heroin from Stern through a confidential informant (CI) in La Crosse. Two days later, LCPD officers purchased 43.4 grams of methamphetamine from Stern through a CI in La Crosse. Later that day, Stern was arrested. He had $4,803 in cash on his person that included prerecorded buy money from the controlled buys on August 10 and 12.
Stern’s hotel room subsequently was searched pursuant to a warrant, and officers found small quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and LSD, as well as scales and packaging supplies. Stern was interviewed by law enforcement. He admitted to distributing pounds of methamphetamine for several months. He estimated making $2,000 to $,4000 per week from drug sales.
Stern was charged in state court and remained in custody until November 25, 2020, when he was released from custody on a signature bond.
On January 13, 2021, LCPD officers purchased 32.6 grams of methamphetamine from Stern through a CI in La Crosse.
On June 3, 2021, a Wisconsin State Patrol trooper conducted a traffic stop for speeding on a vehicle in which Stern was a passenger. The vehicle was searched after a K-9 alerted to the odor of an illegal drug. In a bag on the front passenger floorboard where Stern had been seated, officers found a loaded Glock 45 9mm handgun, three loaded Glock 9mm magazines, and a bag of methamphetamine. A safe in the trunk, opened by a key found in Stern’s wallet, contained additional bags of methamphetamine. A total of 176.1 grams of methamphetamine was located between the bag and safe.
At sentencing, Judge Conley highlighted that Stern continued to sell methamphetamine even after being arrested and released on bond for methamphetamine trafficking charges. He noted that Stern’s conduct escalated in severity over the course of the case itself. Judge Conley explained that Stern continues to be a danger to the community because of his repeated pattern of criminality.
The charge against Stern was the result of an investigation conducted by the Campbell, La Crosse, and Mauston Police Departments, Juneau County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin State Patrol, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Juneau and La Crosse County District Attorney’s Offices also provided assistance in the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case.
Holmen Felon Sentenced to 8 Years for Trafficking Methamphetamine & Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Benjamin T. Devine, 35, Holmen, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 8 years in federal prison for distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. This prison term will be followed by 4 years of supervised release. Devine pleaded guilty to this charge on March 8, 2022.
On August 5, 2021, La Crosse Police Department (LCPD) officers purchased 53.6 grams of methamphetamine from Devine through a confidential informant (CI) in Onalaska, Wisconsin.
On August 16, 2021, LCPD arranged the purchase of an ounce of methamphetamine and a .22 caliber handgun from Devine through a CI. When the CI met with Devine, he did not have the handgun with him, so Devine sold a larger quantity of methamphetamine instead, totaling 55.2 grams. Later that day, LCPD officers executed multiple search warrants connected to Devine. Devine’s vehicle was pulled over and searched. He had $2,105 in cash in his pocket which included prerecorded buy money from the controlled buy earlier that day. In Devine’s vehicle, officers found a total of 397.7 grams of methamphetamine and $5,152 in cash.
At Devine’s residence in Holmen, officers found a Phoenix Arms .22 caliber handgun, a drug ledger, and a small quantity of methamphetamine. Officers found two boxes of ammunition at a storage locker maintained by Devine. Devine’s DNA was identified on the Phoenix Arms handgun.
Devine was interviewed by LCPD officers later that day. He admitted to selling methamphetamine for years. He typically purchased pounds of methamphetamine. Devine knew he was a convicted felon and could not legally possess a firearm.
At the time of these events, Devine was on state supervision for methamphetamine trafficking and being a felon in possession of a firearm. His state supervision was revoked and he is currently serving a sentence of 1 year, 5 months, and 25 days in state prison. Judge Conley ordered this federal sentence to run concurrently with the remainder of Devine’s state prison sentence.
At sentencing, Judge Conley highlighted that Devine returned to drug dealing soon after being released from state prison for a similar offense. Judge Conley also noted Devine’s prior history of possessing weapons.
The charges against Devine were the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse, Onalaska, and Prairie du Chien Police Departments, La Crosse County Sheriff’s Office, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The La Crosse County District Attorney’s Office also provided assistance in the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case.
California Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Laundering $5.1 MillionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Sinval De Oliveira, 49, Torrance, California was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 5 years in federal prison for his role in a money laundering conspiracy. De Oliveira pleaded guilty to the offense on March 4, 2022. Money laundering is a crime that involves using financial transactions that are designed to conceal the true source, location, or ownership of proceeds derived from other crimes.
In November and December 2020, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, together with local law enforcement, investigated a series of thefts by fraud involving individuals who used false pretenses to convince employees of businesses to collect and deliver the businesses’ cash-on-hand to individuals who were supposedly legitimate money couriers. Businesses large and small were targeted in the scheme and the loss to date is approximately $300,000.
On December 2, 2020, De Oliveira flew to Milwaukee where he picked up $242,980 in fraud proceeds from co-defendants Moises Amezcua-Cardenas and Mario Amezcua-Cardenas. After he picked up the money, De Oliveira used a series of smaller ATM transactions at various Milwaukee area banks to deposit the cash into a funnel bank account. He used ATM transactions to avoid having to go into a bank and show identification. The bank account where De Oliveira deposited the money was held in the name of a Florida business but had no legitimate business purpose other than to collect cash from illicit activities. Once deposited, the fraud proceeds from Wisconsin were transferred to another funnel bank account and then eventually sent overseas. De Oliveira received a commission for the money he laundered.
Judge Conley found that the Wisconsin financial transactions were part of a much larger pattern of nation-wide money laundering activity undertaken by De Oliveira, concluding that the defendant laundered more than $5.1 million in illicit proceeds from various unlawful activities in just the five months surrounding the Wisconsin transactions. Judge Conley also found that De Oliveira knew he was conducting financial transactions using proceeds from criminal activities. Judge Conley took into consideration many factors in arriving at an appropriate sentence, including the fact that De Oliveira was already on probation for another criminal offense in California at the time of this offense, that his conduct was more serious than his co-defendants, and that he would likely be deported back to his home country of Brazil following his imprisonment.
Co-defendant Mario Amezcua-Cardenas was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on May 18, 2022, and co-defendant Moises Amezcua-Cardenas is scheduled for sentencing on June 17, 2022. Mario Amezcua-Cardenas and Moises Amezcua-Cardenas are brothers.
The charges against the defendants were the result of investigations conducted by U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Merrill Police Department, Wausau Police Department, Everest Police Department, West Allis Police Department, Stevens Point Police Department, and Marathon County Sheriff’s Department, with special assistance from the Marathon County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith P. Duchemin prosecuted this case.
La Crosse Man Sentenced to 92 Months for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Joshua K. Breidel, 34, La Crosse, Wisconsin was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 92 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. This prison term will be followed by 36 months of supervised release. Breidel pleaded guilty to this charge on March 1, 2022.
On the early morning of August 4, 2021, Breidel was involved in a domestic disturbance with his girlfriend in La Crosse. She later told La Crosse Police Department (LCPD) officers that during the argument, Breidel pointed a Glock handgun at her, which he had previously stolen from her. The girlfriend fled the house and reported hearing a pop, which she assumed was the defendant firing a round at her. Breidel later admitted to discharging the firearm. Breidel’s girlfriend described her relationship with Breidel as abusive and said he regularly threatened to kill her, her children, and her family.
The next day, LCPD officers arrested Breidel in his mother’s van in La Crosse. Breidel was wearing body armor and had a bullet in his pocket. Officers searched the van and found a Glock 48 handgun with a loaded extended magazine on the floor near where Breidel had been seated as well as two additional loaded magazines in his backpack. Breidel’s DNA was later found on the Glock handgun.
Breidel was prohibited from legally possessing a firearm based on multiple prior felony convictions. At the time of this offense, Breidel was out of custody on state bond for three separate open criminal cases. He was also on state probation for two prior cases, including a prior conviction for possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. His state supervision was revoked and he is currently serving a total sentence of 42 months in state prison followed by 42 months of extended supervision. Judge Peterson ordered this federal sentence to run concurrently with the remainder of Breidel’s state prison sentence which has approximately 32 months remaining.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson said that the protection of the public was an important factor in this case and that Breidel was a dangerous character in the community. Judge Peterson highlighted that Breidel was a repeat firearm offender and the case involved the discharge of a firearm, both of which were considered aggravating factors.
The charge against Breidel was the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The La Crosse County District Attorney’s Office also provided assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach involves collaboration by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent and deter gun violence.
Armed Felon Sentenced to 42 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Anthony Brooks, 30, Middleton, Wisconsin pleaded guilty and was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 42 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon.
On July 19, 2021, in a hotel parking lot in Madison, Brooks grabbed a gun from his car, pointed it at two hotel security officers and threatened to shoot them. Brooks, who was intoxicated, then fled the scene and was arrested nearby in possession of a loaded firearm. Brooks was previously convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm in Dane County in 2017.
In sentencing Brooks, Judge Peterson highlighted the serious nature of the offense and risk the defendant posed to the public. He further stressed the defendant’s significant criminal history and noncompliance with previous terms of supervision. Lastly, Judge Peterson noted that a significant prison term was warranted to protect the public from Brooks’ aggravated and violent behavior.
The charge against Brooks was the result of an investigation conducted by Madison Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Reinhard prosecuted this case.
Janesville Man Sentenced to 16 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Noah Eisele, 36, Madison, Wisconsin was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 16 years in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for using minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing images of that conduct. Specifically, the defendant solicited young girls on Facebook for sexually explicit photos and videos. Eisele pleaded guilty to this charge on March 2, 2022.
In February 2021, the Rock County Sheriff’s Office uncovered Eisele’s activity after Facebook flagged an account for sharing child pornography. Law enforcement connected the account to the defendant, who admitted to creating the account in order to pose as a teenage boy. Eisele then used the account to message other users he believed to be minors, and instructed them to send him sexually explicit photos and videos of themselves. In addition to requesting child pornography, Eisele sent minors sexually explicit pictures and videos of himself.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed the identity of several girls targeted by Eisele through interviews, and determined they ranged in age from 11 to 17.
In sentencing the defendant, Judge Peterson reasoned a sentence above the 15-year mandatory minimum was warranted because of the defendant’s demonstrated pattern of predation and aggressive recruitment of girls online. Judge Peterson also noted the child pornography the defendant requested was particularly degrading, which included requests for bondage/dominance/submission/masochism content.
The charge against Eisele was the result of an investigation conducted by the Rock County Sheriff’s Office and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor L. Kraus prosecuted this case.
Grand Jury Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Man Charged with Robberies of Madison Businesses
Scott C. Tolliver, 42, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with robbing two business in Madison. The indictment alleges that on April 15, 2022, he robbed the McDonald’s Restaurant on Regent Street and the Walgreens on East Campus Mall. The indictment alleges that the robberies occurred by means of actual and threatened force, violence, and fear of injury.
If convicted, Tolliver faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Madison Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Anderson is handling the prosecution.
Milwaukee Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearm & Ammunition
Marcell Davis, 31, Milwaukee, Wisconsin is charged with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. The indictment alleges that on March 8, 2022, Davis possessed a .22 caliber handgun, a .357 revolver, and 9mm ammunition.
If convicted, Davis faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the La Crosse Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan is handling the prosecution.
The charges against Tolliver and Davis are brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordinator between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address violent crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Tomah Man Charged with Possessing Methamphetamine for Distribution
Stephen Thompson, 56, Tomah, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he possessed the methamphetamine on March 17, 2022.
If convicted, Thompson faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Trempealeau County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner is handling the prosecution.
Bayfield County Man Charged with Stealing Timber from National Forest
Jerod Hecimovich, 40, Mason, Wisconsin, is charged in a 3-count indictment with stealing live oak timber, injuring live oak timber, and knowingly cutting and removing live oak timber from the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in Bayfield County. According to the indictment, in April 2019 Hecimovich, as owner and operator of Hecimovich Forest Products, LLC, was awarded a contract by the U.S. Forest Service to harvest certain timber from U.S. Forest land. The indictment alleges that Hecimovich harvested certain live oak timber which the contract specified should not be removed. The indictment seeks the forfeiture of proceeds traceable to the offenses charged, including $24,736 representing the amount of proceeds obtained as a result of the alleged theft of government property.
If convicted, Hecimovich faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on the charges of stealing government property and injuring government property. The charge of cutting and removing timber from the National Forest has a maximum penalty of 1 year in prison. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Graber is handling the prosecution.
Man Charged with Escape
Craig Bellis, 42, formerly of Boscobel, Wisconsin, is charged with escape. The indictment alleges that on April 30, 2022, he escaped from custody at Rock Valley Community Programs Inc. in Janesville, Wisconsin, a residential reentry center in which he was lawfully confined.
If convicted, Bellis faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Graber is handling the prosecution.
State of Oregon Man Sentenced to 60 Months for Interfering with Railroad ConductorRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Timothy Thomas, 32, Portland, Oregon, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 60 months in prison for intentionally interfering with an on-duty Amtrak railroad conductor. Thomas pleaded guilty to this charge on March 3, 2022.
On November 7, 2020, law enforcement responded to a report of an Amtrak passenger brandishing an eight-inch knife. While in route, officers received information that the engineer stopped the train near the intersection of US-12 and Hudson Road in Monroe County, Wisconsin. Law enforcement also learned that the subject, later identified as the Timothy Thomas, got off of the train and attempted to force his way into one of the locomotives.
When officers arrived, they observed Thomas walking away from the tracks. They detained Thomas, searched him for weapons, and found a large, white-handled knife concealed in his right pant leg.
Investigators interviewed passengers, the conductor, and the engineer. The passengers explained that Thomas started threatening people around the Wisconsin Dells area. One passenger said that the defendant was talking loudly, banging on the seats, and threatening to “kill people.” Another passenger told investigators that Thomas refused to wear his mask and coughed on passengers.
The conductor told investigators that when she approached Thomas to discuss his conduct, he pulled a white-handled fixed blade knife from his pant leg and held it over his head in a threatening manner. He then began stabbing the knife towards the conductor.
Finally, the train’s engineer said that he stopped the train when he received a radio transmission from the conductor about an individual brandishing a knife. The engineer then saw Thomas exit one of the cars, climb onto a locomotive, and attempt to force his way into the cabin.
At sentencing, Judge Conley said that Thomas’s actions not only affected the conductor, but he recklessly endangered the safety of the train itself.
The charge against Thomas was the result of an investigation conducted by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin State Patrol, Amtrak Police, Canadian-Pacific Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma prosecuted this case.
Wausau Man Sentenced to 2 1/2 Years for Role in International Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Mario Amezcua Cardenas, 28, Wausau, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 2 ½ years in federal prison for his role in laundering the proceeds of an international wire-fraud scheme. Amezcua Cardenas pled guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering on February 17, 2022.
In November and December 2020, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, together with local law enforcement, investigated a series of thefts by fraud involving individuals who used false pretenses to convince employees of businesses to collect and deliver the businesses’ cash-on-hand to individuals who were supposedly legitimate money couriers. Individuals operating in Mexico called the employees, posing as company attorneys or upper management from the corporate office, and told the employees a false story about why they needed to gather the cash-on-hand and deliver it. The fraud perpetrators kept the store employees on the phone so they could not call store management. At some businesses, fraud perpetrators knew store lingo, the locations of safes, and other employee-specific information, which helped convince the employees the calls were legitimate.
Fraud perpetrators were able to successfully obtain cash from businesses throughout Wisconsin, including Merrill, Everest, West Allis, Stevens Point, Wausau, and Rib Mountain. Businesses large and small were targeted in the scheme and the loss to date is approximately $300,000.
Amezcua Cardenas was one of the individuals that picked up money from employee victims under the false pretenses that he was a legitimate money courier acting on behalf of the victim businesses. He also conducted and directed others to conduct, wire transactions to redirect fraud proceeds back to perpetrators in Mexico. He and his co-defendant, Moises Amezcua Cardenas, also transported $242,980 in fraud proceeds to another co-defendant, Sinval De Oliveira, in Milwaukee on December 2, 2020.
In selecting a 2 ½ year sentence, Judge Conley said he considered the seriousness of the defendant’s criminal conduct together with his lower-level role in the conspiracy, lack of prior criminal history, and drug addiction.
Co-defendant Moises Amezcua Cardenas is scheduled for sentencing on May 24, 2022. Co-defendant Sinval De Oliveira is scheduled for sentencing on June 8, 2022. Moises Amezcua Cardenas and Mario Amezcua Cardenas are brothers.
The charges against the defendants were the result of investigations conducted by U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Merrill Police Department, Wausau Police Department, Everest Police Department, West Allis Police Department, Stevens Point Police Department, and Marathon County Sheriff’s Department, with special assistance from the Marathon County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith P. Duchemin prosecuted this case.
Justice Department Files Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Janesville Rental Property OwnersRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – The U.S. Department of Justice announced today that it has filed a lawsuit against Richard and Mary Donahue, owners of rental properties in the Janesville, Wisconsin area, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation in violation of the Fair Housing Act.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin, alleges that Richard Donahue, who manages the properties, sexually harassed numerous female tenants since at least 2000. According to the complaint, Donahue made repeated and unwelcome sexual comments to female tenants, entered the homes of female tenants without their consent, touched female tenants’ bodies without their consent, requested sexual contact, offered reduced or free rent in exchange for sexual contact, and took adverse housing-related actions against female tenants who refused his sexual advances. The lawsuit also names as a defendant Mary Donahue, Richard Donahue’s wife, who co-owns some of the properties.
Today’s lawsuit seeks monetary damages to compensate persons harmed by the alleged harassment, civil penalties to vindicate the public interest, and a court order barring future discrimination. The complaint contains allegations of unlawful conduct; the allegations must be proven in federal court.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe at home, but sexual harassment in housing destroys that security,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department will vigorously enforce the Fair Housing Act against landlords who engage in this kind of predatory and illegal behavior.”
“No one should have to choose between having a place to live or enduring sexual harassment,” said Timothy M. O’Shea, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin. “Those few Wisconsin landlords who exploit vulnerable tenants for sex violate federal law and will be held accountable.”
The Justice Department launched its Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative in October 2017. The Department’s Initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. The goal of the Initiative is to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers, or other people who have control over housing. Since launching the Initiative, the department of Justice has filed 24 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $9.5 million for victims of such harassment.
The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability and familial status. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt.
Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment or other types of housing discrimination at rental dwellings owned or managed by the Donahues, or who have other information that may be relevant to this case, can contact the Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-833-591-0291, select a language, and select option number 2, then option number 4 to leave a message. Individuals may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Wisconsin at (608) 264-5158. Individuals may also e-mail the Justice Department at [email protected] or submit a report online.
If you think you are a victim of sexual harassment by a landlord, or other forms of housing discrimination, you may contact the Justice Department by submitting a report online or contacting the United States Attorney’s Office at [email protected].
Reports also may be made by contacting the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development at 1-800-669-9777 or by filing a complaint online.
Grand Jury Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments yesterday. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Hudson Resident Charged with Drug Crimes Involving Methamphetamine
Juventino Lara Plancarte, 54, a citizen of Mexico living in Hudson, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and with maintaining a place for the purpose of distributing controlled substances. The indictment alleges that on January 20, 2022, he possessed 500 grams or more of methamphetamine for distribution and maintained a place in Hudson for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine.
If convicted, Plancarte faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and a maximum of life in prison on the charge of possessing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine for distribution. The charge of maintaining a place for distributing controlled substances has a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the La Crosse and Hudson Police Departments and the St. Croix County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Anderson is handling the prosecution.
La Crosse Man Charged with Drug & Gun Crimes
Kareem Nellum, 29, La Crosse, Wisconsin, is charged with distributing fentanyl, possessing 40 grams or more of fentanyl with the intent to distribute, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The indictment alleges that on March 29, 2022, Nellum distributed fentanyl, and that on March 30, 2022, he possessed 40 grams or more of fentanyl for distribution and a Smith and Wesson pistol and 9mm ammunition.
If convicted, Nellum faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the fentanyl distribution charge, a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years and a maximum of 40 years on the charge of possessing 40 grams or more of fentanyl for distribution, and a maximum of 10 years on the charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the La Crosse Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor Kraus is handling the investigation.
Eau Claire Woman Charged with Possessing Methamphetamine for Distribution
Golia Xiong, 39, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that she possessed the methamphetamine for distribution on March 30, 2022.
If convicted, Xiong faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years and a maximum of 40 years in prison. The charge against her is the result of an investigation by the Barron County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Anderson is handling the prosecution.
Fitchburg Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearm
Johnluke Spears, 31, Fitchburg, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on December 21, 2021, he possessed a .40 caliber handgun.
If convicted, Spears faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Fitchburg, Middleton, and Sun Prairie Police Departments; Dane County Sheriff’s Office; Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan is handling the investigation.
Mexican Citizen Charged with Illegally Reentering United States
Paulino Gonzalez-Zarate, 27, a citizen of Mexico living in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, is charged with illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed. The indictment alleges that he was found in the U.S. on April 14, 2022.
Gonzalez-Zarate was previously charged with this offense in a complaint filed in U.S. District Court on April 28. The complaint alleges that after his arrest on state charges of battery, strangulation and suffocation, and sexual assault, investigators became aware that he was in the U.S. illegally.
The charge against Gonzalez-Zarate is the result of an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith Duchemin is handling the prosecution.
Wisconsin's U.S. Attorneys Recognize National Police WeekRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – In honor of National Police Week, Richard G. Frohling and Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorneys for the Eastern and Western Districts of Wisconsin, recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Wednesday, May 11 through Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
“This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. And we recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”
“Police Week is an opportunity for us to honor local, state, federal, and Tribal law enforcement officers, particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our communities,” said U.S. Attorney O’Shea. “We appreciate these brave men and women who are committed to protecting the safety of all Wisconsinites.”
“Every day, members of law enforcement put their lives on the line to make our communities great places to live and work,” stated U.S. Attorney Frohling. “My colleagues and I at the U.S. Attorney’s Office are incredibly grateful for the daily sacrifices made by these brave men and women. We must always remember, honor, and support the officers and the families of all officers who have been injured or killed in service to their communities and to their country.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 472 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2021. Of that number, 319 succumbed to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents. Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year. In 2021, unprovoked attacks were the cause of 24 deaths significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting. An unprovoked attack is defined as an attack on an officer not prompted by official contact at the time of the incident between the officer and the offender.
The names of the fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.
Merrill Man Sentenced to 137 Months for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that TJ Myers, 33, Merrill, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 137 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Myers pleaded guilty to this charge on January 26, 2022.
On June 8, 2020, an officer from the Merrill Police Department attempted a traffic stop of a Jeep Patriot driven by Myers. Myers stopped the vehicle and fled on foot. Officers searched the Jeep and found approximately 400 grams of methamphetamine inside the center console. The government’s investigation revealed that Myers had received the methamphetamine from his co-defendant, Levi Bagne, who lived in Arizona.
At the sentencing hearing, Judge Peterson described Myers’ criminal history as “unrelenting” and noted his multiple felony convictions for methamphetamine trafficking. Judge Peterson also concluded that a substantial sentence was warranted because Myers played a significant role in a large-scale drug trafficking organization. Judge Peterson also noted it was an aggravating factor that Myers had been released from prison for less than two months at the time of his arrest in Merrill.
Bagne has signed a plea agreement and has a plea hearing scheduled before Judge Peterson tomorrow.
The charge against Myers is the result of a joint investigation by the Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration, Lake Winnebago Area Metropolitan Unit, and Merrill Police Department. The investigation was conducted and funded by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a multi-agency task force that coordinates long-term narcotics trafficking investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner is handling the prosecution.
Madison Man Sentenced to 8 Years for Cocaine Trafficking and Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Arwin C. Lacy, 31, Madison, Wisconsin was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 7 years in federal prison for possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. This prison term will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Lacy pleaded guilty to this charge on January 11, 2022.
On June 18, 2020, Dane County Narcotics Task Force officers arrested Lacy in Madison, Wisconsin for a prior delivery of cocaine. During the arrest, Lacy told officers that he had a firearm in his right pants pocket. Officers found a loaded Glock 43 9mm handgun in that pocket. Officers located fourteen tied-off baggies of crack cocaine weighing a total of 7.8 grams, three tied-off baggies of heroin weighing a total of 0.7 grams, and $503 in cash in Lacy’s left pants pocket. Following Lacy’s arrest, officers searched his vehicle. Officers found $17,000 in cash, packages of designer marijuana, and four cell phones in a backpack. When interviewed by officers, Lacy admitted to selling cocaine for profit. Lacy was prohibited from possessing a firearm based on multiple prior felony convictions.
At the time of this event, Lacy was on federal supervision for cocaine trafficking. His supervision was revoked and he was ordered to serve 1 year in federal prison to run consecutively to the new federal sentence for a total of 8 years in prison.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson said Lacy’s conduct was dangerous and serious. He said drug trafficking is degrading to the community and possessing a gun while doing it amplifies the potential for violence. Judge Peterson noted that Lacy committed this crime while on federal supervision for a similar offense.
The charges against Lacy were the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force, Madison Police Department, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach involves collaboration by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent and deter gun violence.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 48 Months for Attempting to Possess Fentanyl for DistributionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jeffrey Kemp, 55, Chicago, Illinois was sentenced on Friday, May 6 by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 48 months in prison for attempting to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute. Kemp pleaded guilty to this charge on February 24, 2022.
In 2020, federal and state law enforcement agencies started investigating several known drug traffickers in Dane County, Wisconsin. As part of this joint investigation, the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) learned that an individual in Chicago, Illinois had a parcel of narcotics sent, via U.S. Mail, to an address in Madison, Wisconsin.
On December 7, 2020, a U.S. Postal Inspector identified the parcel, obtained a federal warrant, and searched the package. Inside, investigators found a vacuum-sealed bag that contained approximately 590 grams of a substance containing fentanyl. DCI agents took custody of the drugs and resealed the parcel for a controlled delivery.
Later on December 7, 2020, investigators delivered the parcel to the address in Madison. Approximately one minute after delivering the parcel, a silver sedan with Illinois license plates pulled up to the building. Kemp got out of the car and took the parcel. Arrest units responded as Kemp put the parcel into the car. Officers arrested Kemp and the driver of the vehicle, who agents identified as Antonio Dillard.
During a post-arrest interview, Kemp admitted that the individual in Chicago paid him and Dillard to pick up the parcel and transport the drugs back to Chicago for distribution.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson explained that even though Kemp played a relatively minor role in a larger organization, he caused significant damage to the community by exploiting people’s addictions.
On April 1, 2022, Judge Peterson sentenced Antonio Dillard to 24 months in prison for attempting to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute. In related cases, Judge Peterson sentenced Michael C. Henderson to 84 months in prison on December 9, 2021, and Andre L. McClinton to 108 months in prison on March 23, 2022.
The charge against Kemp was the result of an investigation conducted by DCI, the Dane County Narcotics Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma prosecuted this case.
Trempealeau County Man Sentenced to 18 Years for Taking Pictures of Himself Sexually Assaulting a ChildRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Levi A. Robb, 41, of Osseo, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William Conley to 18 years in prison for producing child pornography. This term of imprisonment is to be followed by 20 years of supervised release. Robb pleaded guilty to this charge on January 5, 2022.
In 2020, a 10-year-old girl told her father that Robb sexually assaulted her several years earlier. She was forensically interviewed and disclosed extensive sexual abuse by the defendant. She also reported that he took pictures of the assaults.
When investigators from the Eau Claire County Sheriff’s office arrested Robb for the sexual assaults, they seized his phone and searched it. They did not find pictures of the assault on it but did find numerous other images depicting child pornography. The defendant was released on a signature bond following this arrest but before law enforcement found the explicit images.
Officers went to re-arrest Robb for possessing child pornography and found him in possession of another phone. On this phone, officers found explicit images that the defendant produced of the 10-year-old girl, made when she was between 5 and 7 years old.
Judge Conley called Robb’s conduct “reprehensible beyond words” and said the gravity of the defendant’s conduct warranted a sentence above the mandatory minimum allowed by law.
The charge against Robb was the result of an investigation conducted by the Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Office, Osseo Police Department, Pepin County Sheriff’s Office, Eau Claire County District Attorney’s Office, and Trempealeau County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman prosecuted this case.
Former Mercyhealth Executive Sentenced to 3 1/2 Years for Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Barbara Bortner, 57, Milton, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 3 ½ years in prison for wire fraud and tax evasion. Bortner, the former Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at Mercyhealth in Janesville, pleaded guilty to these charges on October 14, 2021.
The government’s investigation revealed that between 2015 and 2020, Bortner and co-defendant Ryan Weckerly engaged in a kickback scheme in which Weckerly submitted inflated invoices to Bortner for his marketing work for Mercyhealth. Once Bortner approved his marketing invoices, Weckerly received payments from Mercyhealth and provided money to Bortner using either cash or checks. In return for the payments, Bortner agreed to use Weckerly’s business, Morningstar Media Group, as the primary marketing agency for Mercyhealth.
In order to disguise the true nature of the kickback payments, Bortner created a fictitious company named WeInspire LLC. During the timeframe of the kickback scheme, Weckerly wrote over 103 checks to WeInspire LLC from one of his business accounts. The cumulative total of these checks was $2,051,975. In addition, bank records show that Weckerly provided Bortner with over $1,000,000 in cash kickback payments. Based on the government’s financial analysis of Weckerly’s accounting and bank records, the total monetary amount of the fraud was $3,136,200.72.
The Internal Revenue Service initiated an audit of Bortner’s individual tax returns in May 2019. During the audit, Bortner represented to an IRS Revenue Agent during an interview that WeInspire was a legitimate company that performed marketing work for one of Weckerly’s businesses. In the months following the interview with the IRS Revenue Agent, Bortner continued to receive kickback payments from Weckerly.
At the sentencing hearing, Judge Conley stated that the kickback scheme was a “very substantial crime” that was motivated entirely by Bortner’s greed. Judge Conley also stated that Bortner earned a very generous salary at Mercyhealth and had no pressing need for the money she stole. Judge Conley also noted that rather than stop the scheme after she became aware of the IRS investigation, Bortner essentially “doubled down” and continued to receive payments from Weckerly.
Weckerly pleaded guilty on November 4, 2021 to wire fraud and aiding and assisting in the filing of a false tax return and will be sentenced by Judge Conley on May 17, 2022. Judge Conley also scheduled a restitution hearing for Bortner and Weckerly on July 21, 2022.
The charges against Bortner were a result of an investigation conducted by IRS Criminal Investigation. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner.
Clark County Woman Sentenced to 5 Years for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Samantha K. Fristoe, 30, Owen, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 5 years in federal prison for distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. This prison term will be followed by 4 years of supervised release. Fristoe pleaded guilty to this charge on February 4, 2022.
On June 7, 2021, West Central Drug Task Force officers purchased 55.9 grams of methamphetamine from Fristoe and co-defendant, Saige Marten, through a confidential informant in Clark County, Wisconsin.
At the time of this offense, Fristoe was on state probation for forgery and had been released on criminal bond for cases involving methamphetamine trafficking and bail jumping. Fristoe subsequently was sentenced in her state cases on August 23, 2021 to a total of 3 years and 6 months in state prison followed by 3 years and 6 months of extended supervision. Judge Conley ordered this federal sentence to run concurrently with the remainder of the state prison sentence.
At sentencing, Judge Conley highlighted the fact that Fristoe was on state supervision at the time she committed this offense.
Co-defendant Saige Marten pleaded guilty to distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 8 years in federal prison by Judge Conley on March 23, 2022.
The charge against Fristoe was the result of an investigation conducted by the West Central Drug Task Force; Eau Claire Police Department; Chippewa, Clark, and Rusk County Sheriffs’ Offices, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The Clark County District Attorney’s Office also provided assistance in the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case.
Cadott Pharmacy to Pay Civil Penalty for Controlled Substance Dispensing and Recordkeeping ViolationsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced today that Cadott Miller Pharmacy, Ltd., located in Cadott, Wisconsin, entered into a settlement agreement to pay $20,000 to resolve civil allegations that it violated the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) by dispensing controlled substances outside the usual course of professional pharmacy practice, among other CSA violations.
As a registrant with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the CSA required the pharmacy to be both knowledgeable of and to adhere to federal and state statutes and regulations concerning the receipt, storage, recordkeeping, distribution, dispensing, and destruction of controlled substances.
Between 2017 and 2019, the DEA executed several administrative inspection warrants to review the pharmacy’s operations. As part of the inspections, the DEA investigated the pharmacy’s practices regarding the receiving, dispensing, and recordkeeping of controlled substances. On December 17, 2019, after determining the pharmacy’s compliance measures were unsuccessful, DEA served an immediate suspension order of the pharmacy’s DEA Certificate of Registration, and Cadott Miller Pharmacy voluntarily surrendered its DEA registration on January 7, 2020, for cause. As a result, the pharmacy has been unable to dispense controlled substances.
According to the government’s allegations set forth in the settlement agreement, Cadott Miller Pharmacy dispensed controlled substances outside the usual course of professional pharmacy practice by filling combinations of controlled substances and medications that have no legitimate medical purpose, are highly addictive, and were specifically combined to create or enhance abusive and euphoric effects. In addition, the government alleged that the pharmacy dispensed controlled substances with no valid prescription, provided unauthorized early refills, and dispensed Schedule II controlled substances for opioid dependence, which is prohibited under federal law.
In enacting the CSA, Congress recognized the importance of preventing the diversion of drugs from legitimate to illegitimate uses. The CSA, in relevant part, deters the illegal distribution, possession, dispensing, and improper use of controlled substances, all of which have contributed significantly to the opioid epidemic over the past two decades. The CSA therefore regulates all entities in the chain of distribution, including pharmacies and pharmacists.
“Pharmacies that dispense controlled substances outside the course of professional pharmacy practice endanger the public, abuse their DEA registration, and violate federal law,” said United States Attorney O’Shea. “Pharmacies hold a public trust and grave responsibilities. The overwhelming majority of pharmacies closely adhere to federal and state law and are entirely deserving of the public’s trust. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will, however, gladly partner with DEA to protect the public when pharmacies violate federal law.”
“The men and women of the DEA, alongside our state and local partners, will continue keeping the citizens of Wisconsin safe from the reckless and unscrupulous practices of pharmacies that do not adhere to the Controlled Substances Act,” said John G. McGarry, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration-Wisconsin.
According to the settlement agreement, the civil penalty amount was based on an inability to pay a substantial penalty and determined after analysis and review of the pharmacy’s financial circumstances.
Assistant United States Attorney Leslie Herje represented the government in this matter. The DEA Milwaukee District Office primarily conducted the investigation, along with the United States Attorney’s Office Affirmative Civil Enforcement team. The settlement agreement states CSA allegations only; Cadott Miller Pharmacy denies the allegations.
Plover Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Filing Client Tax Returns with Falsely Inflated DeductionsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that on Friday, April 22, James Canfield, 72, Plover, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to aiding in the preparation of false tax returns filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Canfield will be sentenced on September 14, 2022. He faces a maximum penalty of 3 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.
Canfield owned and operated Advanced Accounting Concepts, Inc., a business located in Plover. As part of his business, Canfield prepared tax returns for third parties in exchange for a fee. Between 2013 and 2018, on behalf of clients, Canfield prepared and electronically submitted tax returns to the IRS with exaggerated business expenses and unjustified deductions for the business use of clients’ homes. This false information fraudulently reduced the amount of taxes his clients owed. Despite being told by clients that they primarily used their homes as their personal residence, Canfield attributed 100% of their home for business, then took home expenses as deductible business expenses.
Canfield previously has been fined on two separate occasions by the IRS for preparing returns with unjustified business expenses and claiming personal living expenses as business deductions. As a consequence of the plea, Canfield will also be permanently prohibited from preparing and filing federal tax returns for other persons.
The charge against Canfield is the result of an investigation conducted by IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert A. Anderson and Meredith Duchemin are handling the prosecution.
Eau Claire Man Sentenced to 34 Months for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that on April 22, Steven Sorensen, 43, Eau Claire, Wisconsin pleaded guilty and was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 34 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On March 5, 2021, Sorensen stole a car and found a handgun in the driver’s door pocket. He took the gun from the car and, as police were investigating and arrested his girlfriend, he hid the gun on a shelf in Goodwill store in Eau Claire. Sorensen was arrested and the keys to the stolen car were in his pocket. He initially denied knowing anything about a gun, but later showed officers where he left it. Police found the gun laying on the bottom shelf behind an electronic item and noted that there were many people and children in the store. Sorensen had previously been convicted in 2015 of forgery and felony bail jumping. He was also on probation at the time of the federal offense.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson said that he had a hard time accepting Sorensen’s story that he was trying to turn the gun over to someone in the Goodwill for safekeeping. Judge Peterson called Sorensen an out-of-control methamphetamine addict and observed that the state system had exhausted its resources trying to get him to address his addiction. Judge Peterson also noted Sorensen’s lengthy criminal history and said that until he was able to deal with his drug addiction, he would be a menace to society. Sorensen was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release.
The charge against Sorensen was the result of an investigation conducted by Eau Claire Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Mexican Citizen Sentenced to 60 Months for Trempealeau County Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Karlett Salazar Zagal, 23, a citizen of Mexico living in Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty and was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 60 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine.
In August 2020, law enforcement received information that several people sold cocaine at a barbershop and taverns in Arcadia, Wisconsin. As their investigation continued, law enforcement learned that three people in Wisconsin received cocaine from someone in Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rican source-of-supply shipped ½ kilogram quantities of cocaine at a time, via U.S. Mail, and hid the drugs inside radios, printers, or bedsheets. In exchange for the cocaine, the Wisconsin-based cocaine traffickers sent money and guns to Puerto Rico.
As part of the investigation, United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) agents obtained and executed several federal search warrants. On May 5, 2021, agents obtained a federal search warrant for a parcel sent from Puerto Rico and destined for a residence in Winona, Minnesota. The Minnesota residence belonged to a person associated with the Wisconsin-based cocaine traffickers. Inside the parcel, investigators found 557 grams of cocaine hidden inside a large Bluetooth speaker.
On June 29, 2021, a USPS-OIG agent obtained a federal search warrant for a parcel sent from Independence, Wisconsin to a residence in Puerto Rico. Inside the parcel, investigators discovered two Glock semi-automatic handguns.
On July 13, 2021, a USPS-OIG agent obtained a federal search warrant for a parcel sent from Puerto Rico to an address in Independence, Wisconsin. Inside, investigators found 506 grams of cocaine. On July 14, 2021, investigators conducted a controlled delivery of the parcel and executed a search warrant. Law enforcement found Salazar, another member of the conspiracy, and an underage female inside the residence.
During a post-arrest interview, Salazar admitted that she “knew what was going on” because she helped run the cocaine business. She discussed how a Puerto Rican source-of-supply sent cocaine to Wisconsin through the U.S. Mail, as well as how the Wisconsin-based traffickers distributed the drugs in and around Arcadia. Salazar also admitted that she helped send the Glock pistols to Puerto Rico.
In imposing the sentence, Judge Conley highlighted Salazar’s role in a large drug conspiracy, and Salazar’s decision to send firearms on behalf of another member of the conspiracy.
The charge against Salazar was the result of an investigation conducted by the USPS-OIG; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation; Trempealeau County Sheriff’s Office; Winona County (Minnesota) Sheriff’s Office; Arcadia Police Department; and Independence Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma prosecuted this case.
Wisconsin Rapids Man Sentenced to 12 Years for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that David Shamont Lindsey, 38, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 12 years in federal prison for distributing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Lindsey pleaded guilty to this charge on January 24, 2022.
An investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies in central Wisconsin determined that Lindsey distributed substantial amounts of methamphetamine in the Wisconsin Rapids area for a number of years. In May 2019, he was recorded by law enforcement delivering nearly 4 ounces of methamphetamine to a customer in Plover, Wisconsin. In August 2019, Lindsey was stopped by the Utah Highway Patrol as he returned to Wisconsin from the West Coast with 6 ½ pounds of methamphetamine concealed in a large PVC tube hidden in his car. Lindsey intended to distribute the methamphetamine in Wisconsin.
In sentencing Lindsey, Judge Conley said that 12 years was a reasonable and necessary sentence considering that Lindsey was a major drug trafficker in the Wisconsin Rapids area rather than engaging in lawful employment. Judge Conley noted that although Lindsey had previous criminal convictions, this would be the first meaningful prison term for his conduct. However, an aggravating factor considered by the court was Lindsey’s purposeful submission of false affidavits and information to the court when attempting to influence the court’s decision on pretrial motions raised by Lindsey who represented himself.
The charges against Lindsey were the result of an investigation conducted by the Central Wisconsin Drug Task Force, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, the Utah Highway Patrol, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Anderson and Chadwick Elgersma prosecuted this case.
Illinois Man Sentenced to 11 Years for Armed Robbery of Lake Delton StoreRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Deon Brown, 28, Waukegan, Illinois, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 11 years in federal prison for robbery of a retail store in Lake Delton, Wisconsin. Brown pleaded guilty to this charge on January 26, 2022.
On July 28, 2020, Brown and co-defendant Cortez Thurmond robbed the Alpha Red Studio in Lake Delton. A few minutes later, and less than a mile away, the defendant and Thurmond robbed Gifts of the World retail store. Video surveillance from inside of Gifts of the World showed Thurmond and Brown taking money from the store and customers. During the robbery, Brown carried a firearm with an extended magazine and struck a customer in the back of the head with it. Another customer in the store reported that Brown punched her in the mouth before stealing her purse.
At the time of the robberies, Brown was on active state supervision in Illinois for a felony armed robbery conviction. At the sentencing hearing, Judge Peterson noted that Brown’s violent use of the firearm during the robberies had a terrorizing effect on the victims. Judge Peterson stated that the robbery of Gifts of the World was a “very calculated crime” as video surveillance showed Brown and Thurmond casing the store two hours before they robbed it. Judge Peterson also noted that Brown’s previous armed robbery conviction and the accompanying four-year prison sentence had not deterred him from engaging in the same criminal conduct.
Judge Peterson sentenced Thurmond on March 1, 2022 to 8 ½ years in prison for his role in the offense. In addition, on January 11, 2022, a grand jury in the Eastern District of Wisconsin returned an indictment against Thurmond and Brown charging them with a conspiracy to rob various commercial establishments in Racine and Kenosha. With regard to these charges, you are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The charges against Brown and Thurmond were a result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lake Delton Police Department, and the Racine Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner handled the prosecution.
Grand Jury Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Fitchburg Man Charged with Gun Crimes
Ka’toine Richardson, also known as “Kado,” 19, Fitchburg, Wisconsin, is charged with receiving a firearm knowing that he was charged with a felony, receiving and possessing a stolen firearm, and with possessing a loaded firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The indictment alleges that on March 18, 2022, Richardson possessed a stolen semiautomatic handgun. The indictment further alleges that from March 22 to March 23, 2022, Richardson possessed a loaded semiautomatic handgun in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime of possessing marijuana with intent to distribute.
Richardson previously was charged with these offenses in a complaint filed in U.S. District Court on April 8. The complaint and affidavit allege that Richardson was the subject of an armed robbery investigation that occurred in Fitchburg on March 18 and following his arrest on March 23, a semiautomatic handgun was found in the vehicle he had been driving. Richardson has been held in the Dane County Jail since his arrest.
If convicted, Richardson faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison on the charge possessing a firearm while under indictment for a felony offense, a maximum penalty of 10 years on the charge of possessing a stolen firearm, and a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years on the charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Federal law requires that any penalty imposed on the charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed.
The charges against Richardson are the result of an investigation by the Fitchburg Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Madison Police Department. U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea is handling the prosecution.
Madison Man Charged with Two Gun Crimes
Kishaun J. Brooks, 20, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of a loaded firearm and with possessing a loaded firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The indictment alleges that from March 18 to April 1, 2022, Brooks possessed a loaded semiautomatic 9mm handgun, and that on April 1, he did so in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime of possessing marijuana with intent to distribute.
If convicted, Brooks faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on the charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years on the charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Federal law requires that any penalty imposed on the charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed.
The charges against Brooks are the result of an investigation by the Fitchburg Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Madison Police Department. U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea is handling the prosecution.
The indictments of Richardson and Brooks have been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Muscoda Woman Charged with Drug Crimes
Pa Kou Yang, 32, Muscoda, Wisconsin, is charged with two counts of possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that she possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine for distribution on December 17, 2020 and February 18, 2021.
If convicted, Pa Kou Yang faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on each count. The charges against her are the result of an investigation by the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Onalaska Police Department, West Central Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and Richland-Iowa-Grant Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick Elgersma is handling the prosecution.
Stevens Point Man Charged with Distributing Child Pornography
Alexander Kucharski, 21, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, is charged with four counts of distributing visual depictions involving the use of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The indictment alleges that he posted a file containing such depictions onto Kik on October 20, twice on November 6, and on November 10, 2021.
If convicted, Kucharski faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years and a maximum of 20 years in federal prison on each count. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Stevens Point Police Department, Portage County Sheriff’s Office, and Plover Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman is handling the investigation.
Madison Man Sentenced to 4 Years for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Tyrone L. Jackson, 55, Madison, Wisconsin was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 4 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm in a school zone. This prison term will be followed by 1 year of supervised release. Jackson pleaded guilty to this charge on January 24, 2022.
On July 6, 2020, Madison Police Department officers were dispatched to investigate an incident involving a firearm at Brittingham Park in Madison. A parking enforcement officer reported hearing a gun shot and observing six to eight people scatter to different vehicles. A passerby told the officer that someone had fired a gun. Multiple witnesses reported observing a physical altercation between individuals.
Officers spoke with the reporting party who said he was at the park with his nephew when Jackson arrived. He said Jackson leaned over the top of his vehicle’s hood and pointed a black handgun at him.
A loaded Sig-Sauer .45 caliber handgun was found on the ground under bushes in the area. Analysis by the Wisconsin State Crime Laboratory identified Jackson’s DNA on the Sig-Sauer. Jackson was determined to have been within 1,000 feet of One City Schools’ campus when he possessed the firearm and was also prohibited from possessing a firearm based on prior felony convictions. At the time of the incident, Jackson was on state probation for a prior conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
In imposing sentence, Judge Peterson noted Jackson’s lengthy criminal history, including a prior history with firearms. Judge Peterson said that Jackson’s behavior, including possessing the gun to intimidate someone, was risky and dangerous.
The charge against Jackson was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie Pfluger and Steven Anderson prosecuted this case.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach involves collaboration by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent and deter gun violence.
Arizona Man Sentenced to 8 Years on Fentanyl ChargesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jason Jordan, 36, Mesa, Arizona, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 8 years in prison for attempted distribution of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Jordan pleaded guilty to these charges on January 25, 2022.
On January 21, 2021, an Express Mail parcel mailed from Mesa, Arizona, to an apartment in Madison, Wisconsin, was intercepted by United States Postal Inspectors. Inspectors executed a federal search warrant on the parcel and found 1,000 blue pills inside. The pills were monogrammed with an “M” on one side and a “30” on the other side and appeared to be legitimate oxycodone pills. However, the pills were sent to a laboratory and tested positive for fentanyl. The subsequent investigation revealed that Jordan mailed the pills to Madison from Arizona.
On Friday, May 16, 2021, Jordan was arrested by police officers in McFarland, Wisconsin. During a search of his vehicle, officers located 700 blue pills that appeared consistent with the pills previously seized on January 21, 2021. The pills were sent to a laboratory and tested positive for fentanyl.
At the sentencing hearing, Judge Peterson noted that Jordan was on probation at the time of his arrest for a prior conviction for heroin trafficking. Judge Peterson also noted that Jordan has a substantial criminal history, including previous felony convictions for heroin trafficking, felon in possession of a firearm, and substantial battery. Judge Peterson also noted that counterfeit pills containing fentanyl are extremely dangerous and carry an acute risk of overdose.
The charges against Jordan were the result of an investigation conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Dane County Narcotics Task Force, and McFarland Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner handled the prosecution.
Minnesota Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Lashawn M. Bennett, 50, St. Paul, Minnesota was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 10 years in federal prison for possessing over 500 grams of cocaine with the intent to distribute. This prison term will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Bennett pleaded guilty to this charge on January 11, 2022.
On March 17, 2021, a Wisconsin State Patrol trooper conducted a traffic stop for speeding on a vehicle driven by Bennett in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. After the trooper detected the odor of marijuana, the vehicle was searched. Officers found a large black bag containing three individually wrapped bricks of cocaine. The total weight of the cocaine was approximately 7.5 pounds.
When interviewed by officers, Bennett admitted to possessing and transporting three kilograms of cocaine with the intent to later distribute it.
At the time of this incident, Bennett was on state probation in Wisconsin for cocaine trafficking and in Minnesota for a prostitution offense. His probation in Wisconsin was revoked and he is currently serving a re-confinement sentence of 9 years in state prison. Judge Peterson ordered this federal sentence to run concurrently with the state prison sentence.
In imposing sentence, Judge Peterson identified the quantity of cocaine involved and Bennett’s criminal history, which included both prior state and federal cocaine trafficking convictions, as highly aggravating factors. Judge Peterson noted Bennett exhibited a pattern of continuing to return to drug trafficking.
The charge against Bennett was the result of an investigation conducted by the Wisconsin State Patrol and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The Eau Claire County District Attorney’s Office also provided assistance in the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case.
Madison Felon Sentenced to 12 Months for Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Timme Baker, 42, Madison, Wisconsin was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 12 months and one day in federal prison for possessing ammunition as felon. This prison term will be followed by 2 years of supervised release.
On March 15, 2021, Baker went to an indoor shooting range in Deerfield, Wisconsin where he rented a shooting lane. Baker presented his real identification to the shooting range employee and signed a waiver indicating that he agreed to follow any state and federal laws while at the range. Video footage from the shooting range showed Baker handling ammunition, loading a firearm, and firing several rounds.
Baker is a nine-time convicted felon and has been federally prohibited from possessing ammunition and firearms since 1997. He has twice been convicted for illegally possessing a firearm as felon under Wisconsin law. At the time of this offense, Baker was on state bail in connection to unrelated charges of illegally possessing a firearm as a felon and resisting an officer.
In sentencing Baker, Judge Conley noted that Baker’s was “outrageous and incredibly stupid” given his long-standing prohibition against possessing firearms and ammunition. Judge Conley stated he felt responsible to impose a custodial sentence in light of Baker’s thoughtless conduct, which was “evidence he had learned little to nothing” from his past experiences.
The charge against Baker was a result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of this case has been handled by Assistant United States Attorney Taylor L. Kraus.
Mexican Citizen Sentenced to 42 Months for Possessing Methamphetamine for DistributionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Gregorio Arreola Mendoza, 34, a citizen of Mexico found in Eau Claire County, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 42 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Arreola Mendoza pleaded guilty to this charge on November 2, 2021.
On February 24, 2021, a trooper with the Wisconsin State Patrol stopped a vehicle on Interstate 94 in Eau Claire County, Wisconsin. While talking to the driver, later identified as Arreola Mendoza, the trooper smelled the odor of marijuana and alcohol coming from the car. He also saw an open bottle of beer on the floor between the passenger’s legs. During an interview, the passenger, identified as Jose A. Mendoza-Cortez, admitted to having marijuana in the center console. The trooper searched the car and saw marijuana debris on the floor and a marijuana blunt in the center cup holder. As the officer continued his search, he found 20 plastic bags in the trunk, each containing a crystalline substance. The total amount of the substance from the 20 bags weighed approximately 20 pounds and tested positive for methamphetamine.
During a post-arrest interview, Arreola Mendoza admitted that someone paid him and Mendoza-Cortez to transport the drugs from Minnesota to Ohio.
At sentencing, Judge Conley noted that Arreola Mendoza and Mendoza-Cortez were entrusted with a significant amount of methamphetamine. Judge Conley also stressed that such a large amount of drugs would have caused a staggering amount of damage to the community.
Judge Conley sentenced Mendoza-Cortez to 48 months in prison on March 24, 2022.
The charges against Arreola Mendoza and Mendoza-Cortez were the result of an investigation conducted by the Wisconsin State Patrol, West Central Drug Task Force, Eau Claire County District Attorney’s Office, and Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma prosecuted this case.
Former High School Teacher Sentenced to 20 Years for Producing & Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that McKenzie W. Johnson, 35, Ladysmith, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 20 years in prison for producing and possessing child pornography. This term of imprisonment will be followed by 20 years of supervised release. Johnson pleaded guilty to these charges on January 13, 2022.
In March 2021, the mother of a 13-year-old girl in California called law enforcement, reporting that she discovered explicit messages between her daughter and a man later identified as Johnson. Law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Johnson’s home in Ladysmith and found numerous images and videos he recorded of livestreams of the 13-year-old engaging in sexually explicit conduct. They also found a video the defendant recorded of a live stream of an 11-year-old, in which the defendant instructs her on how to insert a sharpie into her vagina and to adjust her hand so he can get a better view. At the time he committed these offenses, Johnson was a teacher at Ladysmith High School.
Judge Conley noted that Johnson led a dual life with his friends and family who had no idea that he was preying on young girls. Judge Conley also said that the defendant was bright, but manipulative, and willing to engage in horrendous behavior with young girls. Finally, Judge Conley was concerned that the defendant left his job at a hospital to become a teacher of students the same age he was attracted to, saying that the defendant teaching children was like an alcoholic going to a bar.
The charges against Johnson were the result of an investigation conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Ladysmith Police Department, Rusk County Sheriff’s Office, Clark County Sheriff’s Office, the Ladysmith School District, and the Fontana, California Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman prosecuted this case.
Chicago Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Attempting to Possess Fentanyl for DistributionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Antonio Dillard, 63, Chicago, Illinois pleaded guilty and was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 24 months in federal prison for attempting to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute.
In 2020, federal and state law enforcement agencies started investigating several known drug traffickers in Dane County, Wisconsin. As part of this joint investigation, the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) learned that an individual in Chicago had a person in another state send a parcel of narcotics via U.S. Mail to an address in Madison, Wisconsin.
On December 7, 2020, a U.S. Postal Inspector identified the parcel, obtained a federal warrant, and searched the package. Inside, investigators found a vacuum-sealed bag that contained a white substance. The substance weighed approximately 590 grams, and the Wisconsin State Crime Lab determined it tested positive for the presence of fentanyl. DCI agents took custody of the drugs and resealed the parcel for a controlled delivery.
Later on December 7, 2020, investigators delivered the parcel to the address in Madison. Approximately one minute after delivering the parcel, a silver sedan with Illinois license plates pulled up to the building. A male subject exited the front passenger seat, walked towards the building, and took the parcel. Arrest units responded as the subject, later identified as Jeffrey Kemp, put the parcel into the sedan. Officers arrested Kemp and the driver of the vehicle, who agents identified as Dillard.
During a post-arrest interview, Dillard admitted that the individual in Chicago paid him to pick up the parcel and transport the drugs back to Chicago for distribution.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson explained that Dillard played a relatively minor role in a much larger enterprise that, given the total amount of drugs they trafficked, caused significant damage to the community.
Jeffrey Kemp pleaded guilty to attempting to possess fentanyl with intent to distribute and is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Peterson on May 6, 2022. In related cases, Judge Peterson sentenced Michael C. Henderson to 84 months in prison on December 9, 2021 and Andre L. McClinton to 108 months in prison on March 23, 2022.
The charge against Dillard was the result of an investigation conducted by DCI, the Dane County Narcotics Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma prosecuted this case.
Racine Man Sentenced to 37 Months for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Montanez Miller, 25, Racine, Wisconsin was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 37 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. This prison term will be followed by a 2-year period of supervised release. Miller pleaded guilty to this charge on January 21, 2022.
On May 16, 2021, Miller was in a bar in La Crosse with another individual who flashed a gun. Police were called, saw Miller nearby, and apprehended him after a foot chase. Miller had a pack slung across his body that contained a Glock 19 9mm pistol loaded with 19 rounds of ammunition, a Glock 27 .40 caliber pistol loaded with 12 rounds, a Glock magazine with 30 rounds, and two plastic baggies of marijuana that weighed a total of 44.8 grams.
In 2013, Miller was convicted of the felony crimes of theft from person and possession with the intent to deliver marijuana in Racine County. He was sentenced to prison, which was stayed for a term of probation.
At sentencing, Judge Conley was concerned with Miller’s poor performance on supervision, and the fact that he was carrying drugs and guns. Judge Conley noted Miller’s prior offenses and probation warrant, saying that the long-term consequences of this type of conduct was likely to lead to Miller getting himself or others killed.
The charge against Miller was the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Grand Jury Returns Three IndictmentsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Beloit Man Charged with Distributing Crack Cocaine
Marcus Payton, 37, Beloit, Wisconsin, is charged with 2 counts of distributing crack cocaine. The indictment alleges that he distributed crack cocaine on January 31 and February 4, 2022.
If convicted, Payton faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Beloit and Janesville Police Departments, and Rock County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Reinhard is handling the prosecution.
Verona Man Charged with Gun Crime
Devin Crayton, 32, Verona, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The indictment alleges that on January 11, 2022, Crayton possessed a 9mm handgun and 9mm ammunition.
If convicted, Crayton faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Verona Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan is handling the prosecution.
Milwaukee Man Charged with Failure to Report to Prison
Bernard Thomas, 30, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is charged with failing to surrender for the service of a sentence imposed by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin. The indictment alleges that on March 12, 2021, Thomas failed to surrender to serve the sentence imposed by the Court.
If convicted, Thomas faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Reinhard is handling the prosecution.
La Crosse Man Sentenced to 7 Years for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Antjuano Green, 40, La Crosse, Wisconsin was sentenced on Friday, March 25, by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 7 years in federal prison for distributing cocaine base. This prison term will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Green pleaded guilty to this charge on November 19, 2021.
On March 17, 2021, La Crosse Police Department officers purchased 41.9 grams of crack cocaine from Green through a confidential informant in La Crosse. On March 24, 2021, officers purchased 12.9 grams of crack cocaine from Green, again through a confidential informant.
The next day, officers arrested Green for the prior drug deliveries. Officers searched Green’s car and found baggies containing a total of 16.9 grams of crack cocaine and 3.4 grams of powder cocaine, as well as $4,440 in cash. When interviewed by officers, Green admitted to selling cocaine for profit.
At the time of these events, Green was on state supervision for crack cocaine trafficking. His supervision was revoked and he is currently serving a sentence of 3 ½ years. Judge Peterson ordered this federal sentence to run concurrently with the remainder of the state prison sentence.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson noted that drug trafficking degrades the health and safety of a community. Judge Peterson highlighted Green’s lengthy criminal history involving drug dealing and his persistent recidivism.
The charge against Green was the result of an investigation conducted by the Campbell, La Crosse, and Onalaska Police Departments. The La Crosse County District Attorney’s Office also provided assistance in the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case.