Western District of Wisconsin
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Justice Department Observes 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Today, U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
“Crimes against the elderly target some of the most vulnerable individuals in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “My office will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to bring those who prey on the elderly to justice, especially those who take advantage of the pandemic to engage in fraud schemes.”
U.S. Attorney Blader noted two recent elder fraud prosecutions as examples of the types of cases that his office has made a priority. In December 2019, Jamie Smith, a coin broker from Baldwin, Wisconsin, was sentenced 54 months for liquidating his clients’ coins and using the funds for his personal expenses. In May 2020, Emmanual Odiah, a Nigerian national, was sentenced to 54 months for assisting an international fraud scheme by opening bank accounts in the United States to launder the proceeds of the scheme. Many of Smith’s and Odiah’s victims were elderly individuals.
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities. Major strides have already been made to that end:
• National Elder Fraud Hotline (833-FRAUD-11) - Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
• Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
• Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
• Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
• Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
Wausau Man First to Plead Guilty and Be Sentenced in Large Methamphetamine OperationRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Meng Xiong, 26, Wausau, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to five years in prison for distributing methamphetamine. Xiong pleaded guilty to this charge on March 10, 2020.
Meng Xiong was convicted of distributing methamphetamine as part of a larger methamphetamine conspiracy that existed, conservatively, from November 12, 2018 through June 13, 2019, in the Wausau, Wisconsin area. It is believed that the leader of the conspiracy was bringing pounds of methamphetamine into the Wausau area from the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Law enforcement agents seized almost five pounds of methamphetamine in connection with this case, though agents believe the conspiracy was responsible for well over ten pounds flowing into the Wausau area.
Xiong was charged with distributing methamphetamine that he purchased from the leader of the conspiracy on two occasions, though he had been involved with the leader of this drug-trafficking operation for several years. Conservatively, Xiong’s relevant conduct included over 90 grams of methamphetamine. While this is Meng Xiong’s first federal conviction, he was on criminal supervision in Wisconsin when he committed this offense.
Meng Xiong and ten other individuals were charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in September 2019 for their roles in this methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. Meng Xiong is the first to plead guilty and be sentenced.
The charge against Meng Xiong was the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force; Marathon County Sheriff’s Office; Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation; Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office; Wausau Police Department; Everest Metro Police Department; and Wisconsin State Patrol. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper.
Monona Man Sentenced to 12 Years for Child Pornography Charges & Secretly Recording MinorsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Scott T. Blood, 49, Monona, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge James Peterson to 12 years in prison for receiving and possessing child pornography. This prison term will be followed by a 20-year term of supervised release. Blood pleaded guilty to these charges on March 11, 2020.
On July 30, 2019, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at the Blood’s home in Monona. Numerous electronic devices were seized from the home, which were later analyzed. On the defendant’s phone, agents found hundreds of Kik messages between the defendant and other people. Some of the conversations were with adults with whom he discussed his sexual interest in minors. Others were with minors from whom he obtained child pornography.
Agents also found numerous sexually explicit images of other minors that were filmed with a camera that Blood hid in a smoke detector. Based on these surreptitious recordings, Judge Peterson indicated that the 12-year sentence was warranted because the secret recordings were such a grotesque invasion of the victims’ privacy.
The charges against Blood were the result of an investigation conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Monona Police Department, and Mount Horeb Police Department. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.
Felon Who Brought Gun to Madison House Party Sentenced to 96 MonthsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Ronald Rice, 36, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 71 months in prison for unlawful possession of a firearm, and an additional 24 months in prison for violation of supervised release conditions.
On January 10, 2020, Rice pleaded guilty to a one-count information that charged him with unlawful possession of a .40 caliber Glock firearm as a felon. On May 19, 2019, Rice brought the gun to an after-party in Madison. At the time, Rice was on federal supervised release following his prison sentence for dealing drugs. Pursuant to a written plea agreement, Rice agreed to a joint sentencing recommendation of 71 months for the gun charge and 24 months for violating conditions of his supervised release, for a total sentence of 95 months in prison.
At today’s sentencing, Rice apologized for his conduct and noted that it was a dumb thing for him to do, bringing a gun to the May 19, 2019 party, and he was just hanging around the wrong people. Judge Peterson agreed with Rice that it was a dumb thing to do, especially given the fact that Rice had just been released from federal prison 46 days earlier after serving a 72-month sentence for drug dealing. Judge Peterson told Rice that he hoped Rice recognizes that being on supervised release is a tool to help an inmate get back on his feet, “but if you violate the rules and cause problems you will be revoked and go back to prison. “ Finally, Judge Peterson noted that, “People should understand that gun crimes, such as this one, pose an acute danger to the community, and if you unlawfully possess a firearm you will face a stiff penalty.”
The charges against Rice are the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department. The prosecution of this case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Graber.
The case was 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 crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Felon Sentenced to 66 Months for Possessing Loaded FirearmRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jamohn Barney, 25, Madison, Wisconsin was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 66 months in federal prison, followed by a three-year term of supervised release, for unlawfully possessing a loaded firearm as a felon. Barney pleaded guilty to this charge on February 5, 2020.
On August 10, 2019, Barney was passed out behind the wheel of his car, which was running, at a McDonald’s in Monona. He had an open bottle of champagne between his legs. He resisted law enforcement requests to cooperate with sobriety tests, so he was placed in handcuffs. While placing him in handcuffs, officers saw a bag of “white rock-like substance” on the driver's floorboard. Based on their training and experience, they believed the substance was crack cocaine. The car was lawfully searched and in the center console was a loaded Taurus 9mm pistol, wrapped in a blue bandana.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives traced the firearm and found that it had been purchased by Lidia Molina on July 12, 2019. Further investigation led to the prosecution of Molina for the purchase of numerous firearms for her boyfriend, a felon (“straw purchases”). In this instance, he sold the Taurus pistol to Barney, who is a friend and associate. Molina is scheduled to be sentenced July 18, 2020.
Barney was convicted of robbery with use of force in 2014, and battery by prisoners in 2015. He was serving a term of extended supervision in Dane County Circuit Court when he unlawfully possessed the Taurus.
The charge against Barney was the result of an investigation conducted by the Monona Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
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.
U.S. Attorney Welcomes HIDTA Designation for Eau Claire CountyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott. C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced today that Eau Claire County has been designated as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) by the White House’s Office of National Drug Control Policy. The designation means Eau Claire County will receive more resources to coordinate federal, state, and local governments’ efforts to fight drug trafficking and abuse.
“This designation will result in the expansion of law enforcement efforts to combat deadly drugs such as methamphetamine and heroin in northwest Wisconsin by providing critical federal support and funding to state and local agencies,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “These additional resources will be used to disrupt the flow of drugs in northern Wisconsin and hold distribution networks accountable for the deaths and addictions they cause.”
“The Drug Enforcement Administration has been a long time partner with law enforcement agencies in Eau Claire County to fight the scourge of drug trafficking and the violence associated with it. This HIDTA designation will provide much needed support in our efforts to keep the communities in and around Eau Claire County safe from violent drug trafficking organizations,” said DEA Milwaukee District Office Assistant Special Agent in Charge Paul E. Maxwell, Jr.
To secure this designation, the U.S. Attorney’s Office partnered with the Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Department, the West Central Drug Task Force, the St. Croix Valley Drug Task Force, the Eau Claire County District Attorney’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. In addition, all these agencies will continue to partner with the Eau Claire County Alliance for Drug Endangered Children to respond to children who are endangered by caregivers who use, manufacture, or distribute drugs.
Created by Congress in 1988, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program coordinates and assists federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to address regional drug threats with the purpose of reducing drug trafficking and drug production in the United States. The HIDTA program oversees regional HIDTAs in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia.
Two Wisconsin Men Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearm During Madison ProtestsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Two men have been charged with federal firearms crimes in complaints filed today in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin. According to United States Attorney Scott C. Blader, the two defendants have been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm after allegedly being found with a firearm during Madison protests. The cases are not related.
“It is important to speak plainly and give fair warning to those who might consider using legitimate protesters as ‘cover’ for criminal conduct. Every American has a right for their voice to be heard, especially during these challenging times, and my office defends the right of individuals to speak, assemble, and protest,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “However, public safety is a necessary prerequisite for the free exercise of First Amendment rights. My office will prosecute those who exploit legitimate protests to commit federal crimes.”
Kyle C. Olson, also known as Kyle Charles Quade, 28, Edgerton, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of a .45 caliber handgun. The affidavit accompanying the complaint alleges that at approximately 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 31, 2020, police officers stationed in the area of 220 West Gilman Street to respond to the civil unrest occurring in downtown Madison observed an individual later identified as Olson remove a handgun from the trunk of his car and place the handgun in his back waistband.
Anthony R. Krohn, 36, Madison, is charged with being a felon in possession of a .22 caliber handgun. The affidavit accompanying this complaint alleges that at approximately 2:12 a.m. on Monday, June 1, 2020, police officers were dispatched to the area of South Fairchild and West Doty Streets in Madison in reference to a person with a gunshot wound, and found a person later identified as Krohn bleeding from a wound in his leg with a gun on the ground next to him. The affidavit further alleges that Krohn told a law enforcement officer that he had shot himself.
Olson and Krohn are currently in custody at the Dane County Jail. Their initial appearances in federal court have not been scheduled and will take place by videoconference.
If convicted, Olson and Krohn each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charges against them are the result of investigations by the Madison Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey C. Stephan is handling the prosecution of these cases.
You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Justice Department Awards Nearly $400 Million for Law Enforcement Hiring to Advance Community PolicingRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – The U.S. Department of Justice today announced nearly $400 million in grant funding through the Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The Attorney General announced funding awards to 596 law enforcement agencies across the nation, which allows those agencies to hire 2,732 additional full-time law enforcement professionals. The awards announced today are inclusive of the $51 million announced in May as part of Operation Relentless Pursuit.
“The Department of Justice is committed to providing the police chiefs and sheriffs of our great nation with needed resources, tools, and support. The funding announced today will bolster their ranks and contribute to expanding community policing efforts nationwide,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “A law enforcement agency’s most valuable assets are the men and women who put their lives on the line every day in the name of protecting and serving their communities.”
“The agencies receiving these funds will be able to increase the number of officers they have to address the most critical crime issues in their communities,” said Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin. “The focus on community policing will strengthen relationships between these agencies and the citizens they serve.”
The COPS Hiring Program is a competitive award program intended to reduce crime and advance public safety through community policing by providing direct funding for the hiring of career law enforcement officers. In addition to providing financial support for hiring, CHP provides funding to state, local, and tribal law enforcement to enhance local community policing strategies and tactics. In a changing economic climate, CHP funding helps law enforcement agencies maintain sufficient sworn personnel levels to promote safe communities. Funding through this program had been on hold since the spring of 2018 due to a nationwide injunction that was lifted earlier this year.
CHP applicants were required to identify a specific crime and disorder problem focus area and explain how the funding will be used to implement community policing approaches to that problem focus area. Forty-three percent of the awards announced today will focus on violent crime, while the remainder of the awards will focus on a variety of issues including school-based policing to fund school resource officer positions, building trust and respect, and opioid education, prevention, and intervention. The COPS Office received nearly 1,100 applications requesting more than 4,000 law enforcement positions.
The complete list of awards can be found here. To learn more about CHP, please visit https://cops.usdoj.gov/chp. For additional information about the COPS Office, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.
Sun Prairie Man Sentenced to 66 Months for Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Cortez Jackson, 39, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 66 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine. Jackson pleaded guilty to this charge on November 8, 2019.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson found that Jackson was responsible for distributing a large amount of heroin – some of which was laced with fentanyl – during a six-month period in the Madison area. Judge Peterson stressed that the defendant had a sustained criminal history and exploited the illness of others for his own profit.
Co-defendant Van Williamson, who was the leader of the conspiracy, was sentenced by Judge Peterson to 8 years in federal prison on March 12, 2020.
The charge against Jackson was the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration, Sun Prairie Police Department, and the Madison Police Department. The prosecution of the case has been handled by U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader and Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Reinhard.
Madison Man Sentenced for Possessing Heroin for DistributionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that James Britton, 30, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 37 months in federal prison for possessing heroin with intent to distribute.
This is Britton’s second sentence in federal court. At the time of this offense, he was serving a term of federal supervision as a result of his 2015 conviction for distributing heroin. Judge Peterson revoked the defendant’s supervision and imposed an additional term of imprisonment of one year and one day, to be served consecutively to the 37-month term.
The total amount of heroin attributable to Britton was approximately 37.51 grams. Three additional counts of distribution of heroin were dismissed pursuant to the defendant’s plea.
In sentencing the defendant, Judge Peterson noted that Britton was “damaging the community” by selling heroin and that his conduct took advantage of others’ addictions. Judge Peterson explained that the sentence was meant to provide incremental punishment based on the defendant’s prior conviction and subsequent failure on supervision.
The charge against Britton was the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor L. Kraus handled the prosecution.
La Crosse Man Sentenced on Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Eric Sobek, 47, La Crosse, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to seven years in federal prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Sobek pleaded guilty to this charge on February 19, 2020.
On September 17, 2019, officers from the La Crosse Police Department arrested Sobek outside of a hotel in Onalaska, Wisconsin. When officers searched Sobek’s car, they found a safe that contained 233 grams of methamphetamine; a .226 Sig Sauer pellet gun designed to resemble a firearm; a high-capacity 9 mm magazine; and a crossbow with three bolts. Officers also searched Sobek’s backpack and hotel room, where they found an additional 23 grams of methamphetamine. In total, officers seized 256 grams of methamphetamine.
During sentencing, Judge Conley highlighted Sobek’s extensive criminal record, as well as his history of domestic violence.
The charge against Sobek was the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse Police Department and the Onalaska Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma handled the prosecution of the 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.
Two Superior Residents Charged with Methamphetamine Conspiracy & Distribution
Christina Nord, 35, and Steven Ranta, 42, both of Superior, Wisconsin, are charged with conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The indictment alleges that the conspiracy operated between December 2 and December 31, 2019.
The indictment also charges Nord with seven counts of distributing methamphetamine and Ranta with five counts of distributing methamphetamine during December 2019. Finally, the indictment charges that on December 31, 2019, Nord and Ranta possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
If convicted, Nord and Ranta face a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the conspiracy charge and the possession with intent to distribute charge alleging 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and a maximum penalty of 20 years on the distribution charges.
The charges against them are the result of an investigation by the Superior Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor Kraus is handling the prosecution.
Eau Claire Man Charged with Crimes Involving Methamphetamine & Heroin
Marnell Davis, 34, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is charged with distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and with possessing heroin with intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on March 27, 2020, and that he possessed heroin and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on April 7, 2020.
If convicted, Davis faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the two charges alleging 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and a maximum penalty of 20 years on the heroin charge.
The charges against him are the result of an investigation by West Central Drug Task Force; Chippewa, Dunn, and Eau Claire County Sheriffs’ Departments; Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire, and Menomonie Police Departments; Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation; and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Anderson is handling the prosecution.
La Crosse Man Charged with Possessing Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute
James Dean, 36, La Crosse, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he possessed the methamphetamine on February 5, 2020.
If convicted, Dean faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the La Crosse Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron D. Wegner is handling the prosecution.
Two Charged with Methamphetamine Crimes
Alexander Cappard, 26, Apple Valley, Minnesota, and Alisha Heiman, 30, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, are charged with distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that they distributed and possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on March 16, 2020.
If convicted, Cappard and Heiman face a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on each charge. The charges against them are the result of an investigation by the West Central Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron D. Wegner is handling the prosecution.
Madison Man Charged with Drug Crimes Involving Heroin & Cocaine
Emmanuel O. Stephen, 30, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing 100 grams or more of heroin with intent to distribute, and with possessing cocaine with intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he possessed the heroin and cocaine on December 6, 2019.
If convicted, Stephen faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years on the charge alleging 100 grams or more of heroin. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years on the cocaine charge.
The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Madison Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Dane County Narcotics Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper is handling the prosecution.
Madison Man Charged with Drug & Gun Crimes
Phillip Thomas, 30, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with distributing crack cocaine and methamphetamine on March 31 and April 1, 2020, with possessing heroin with intent to distribute on April 3, 2020, and with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The indictment alleges that he possessed a shotgun and ammunition on April 3, 2020.
If convicted, Thomas faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each of the three drug charges, and 10 years on the gun charge. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Sun Prairie Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor L. Kraus is handling the prosecution.
Madison Man Charged with Drug & Gun Crimes
Hamin Williams, 37, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and with possessing fentanyl and oxycodone with the intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that on April 24, 2020, he possessed a loaded .32 caliber pistol and fentanyl and oxycodone.
If convicted, Williams faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on the felon in possession of a firearm charge, and 20 years in federal prison on the drug charge.
The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Madison Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow is handling the prosecution.
Man Charged with Being a Felon in Possession of Firearm
Thomas R. Olsem, 52, Luck, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of firearms. The indictment alleges that on March 8, 2020, Olsem possessed a .22 caliber pen gun and a loaded .380 caliber handgun.
If convicted, Olsem faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey C. Stephan is handling the prosecution.
The indictments charging Thomas, Williams, and Olsem 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 crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Man Charged with Producing Child Pornography
Gerardo Junior Torres, 23, Chicago, Illinois, is charged with two counts of producing child pornography. The indictment alleges that on January 15 and January 21, 2020, he intentionally used a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct.
If convicted, Torres faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison on each charge. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office, Ladysmith Police Department, and Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman is handling the prosecution.
Man Charged with Escape
Theodore Thurman, 25, Rockford, Illinois, is charged with escape. The indictment alleges that on January 27, 2020, Thurman failed to remain within the extended limits of his confinement and return within the time prescribed to the Rock Valley Community Programs Center in Janesville, Wisconsin.
If convicted, Thurman faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow is handling the prosecution.
La Crosse Man Sentenced to 90 Months for Possessing Mix of Fentanyl & Heroin for DistributionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that David Wims, 41, La Crosse, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty and was sentenced on May 21 by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 90 months in federal prison for possessing a mixture of fentanyl and heroin for distribution.
The amount of the fentanyl and heroin mixture attributable to Wims was over 70 grams. This is the defendant’s first sentence in federal court, though he has a long history in the state criminal justice system. Judge Conley noted the “disturbing predatory element” of the crime because the defendant elected to sell a substance that he, himself, did not abuse. The judge found it unlikely that Wims was unaware of the heightened dangers of fentanyl-laced drug combinations.
Wims was on community supervision in the Wisconsin state system when he committed the federal crime and Judge Conley ordered the federal sentence to run consecutive to any state sentence that Wims is currently serving.
The charge against Wims was the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper handled the prosecution of the case.
Officials of Waste Recycling Company Charged with Conspiring to Commit Environmental CrimesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced the filing of three Informations and plea agreements yesterday charging Thomas Drake, 80, Jasper, Georgia; James Moss, 61, Ladysmith, Wisconsin; and Bonnie Dennee, 66, Phillips, Wisconsin, with conspiracy to store and transport hazardous waste without the required permits and manifests, in violation of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The Information filed against Moss also charged him with conspiracy to evade the payment of employment taxes and income taxes to the Internal Revenue Service.
As part of their plea agreements with the United States, Drake, Moss, and Dennee agreed to waive their right to be charged by indictment by a grand jury. In these circumstances, federal charges are entered by way of an Information filed with the Court.
According to the Informations, 5R Processors Ltd. (5R) based in Ladysmith, Wisconsin was a corporation involved in recycling electronic equipment, appliances, and other assets. 5R operated numerous facilities and warehouses in Ladysmith, Glen Flora, Catawba and West Bend, Wisconsin, and in Morristown, Tennessee. Drake founded 5R in Wisconsin in 1988 and served as the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors. Drake was responsible for overseeing all aspects of 5R’s operations, including compliance with OSHA and federal and state environmental laws. Moss joined 5R in 2007, and became its President in 2010. As President of 5R, Moss was responsible for managing all plant operations. Dennee started with 5R in 1997. She worked in various positions at 5R, including director of environmental, health, safety & certifications, and executive vice-president.
According to the Informations, 5R used a de-manufacturing technique whereby electronic equipment was taken apart manually and the parts sorted into commodities which then could be resold. 5R took in computer monitors and televisions that contained cathode ray tubes (CRTs), which were broken down and the glass separated between “clean glass” (which was sold as a commodity) and “funnel glass” that had lead in it. Until 2011, 5R shipped the leaded CRT glass to vendors that were allowed to handle it, and 5R was charged for the disposal.
The Informations allege that from 2011 to 2016, the defendants and others conspired to (1) knowingly store hazardous waste (i.e broken and crushed CRT glass that contained lead) at unpermitted facilities in Catawba and Glen Flora, Wisconsin, and Morristown, Tennessee; (2) knowingly transport the hazardous waste without a required manifest; and (3) conceal the above violations from state regulators in Wisconsin and Tennessee, as well as auditors with a nationwide recycling certification program known as R2.
According to the Informations, the defendants attempted to conceal their illegal storage and transport of the crushed leaded glass by various means, including:
- changing the date labels on the containers;
- hiding the containers by putting them inside semi-trailers and locking the trailer doors;
- moving the containers to the back of the warehouse and stacking other pallets in front of them, making it impossible for regulators to see the boxes or inspect them;
- storing the containers at a warehouse in Glen Flora, and not disclosing the existence of this warehouse, or its contents, to state regulators or R2 auditors;
- storing the containers at 5R’s plant in Morristown, Tennessee in two warehouse spaces that did not have electricity or power, and which were referred to by 5R employees as the “dark side” and the “dark-dark side;” and
- providing the state regulators with inaccurate inventory and shipping records for the leaded glass.
The defendants agreed to plead guilty to this conspiracy charge. If convicted, the maximum penalty for this charge is five years in prison, restitution, and a $250,000 fine. In addition, Moss agreed to plead guilty to a conspiracy to defraud the IRS in the collection of employment taxes and income taxes for 5R and two other related companies, Wisconsin Logistic Solutions (WLS) and Pure Extractions. The Information alleges that Moss and others failed to truthfully account for and pay over to the Internal Revenue Service all of the federal income taxes withheld from employees and FICA taxes due and owing to the United States for 5R, WLS and Pure Extractions, totaling $858,101.29. The maximum penalty for this charge is also five years in prison, restitution, and a $250,000 fine.
The charges against Drake, Moss, and Dennee are the result of an investigation conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Law Enforcement; the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division; and IRS Criminal Investigation. James Cha with EPA Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Graber are 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.
Nigerian National Sentenced for Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Emmanuel Odiah, 33, a citizen of Nigeria, most recently of Dallas, Texas, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 54 months in federal prison for money laundering in connection with a wire-fraud scheme. Odiah pled guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering on January 15, 2020.
While in the United States on a Visa, Odiah laundered money for a network of individuals perpetrating computer-based fraud schemes in Nigeria and Ghana. This network defrauded victims throughout the United States out of money through a variety of schemes, including romance fraud. Odiah’s role was to help collect, conceal, and redirect that money using bank accounts he maintained under two fake identities in the United States. He was able to keep a percentage of the fraud proceeds as a fee for his assistance.
“Odiah participated in a scheme that manipulated elderly and other vulnerable individuals with a total disregard for the financial and emotional devastation it caused,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “Bringing those who prey on our seniors to justice is a top priority of my office.”
“Let this sentence serve as a reminder that Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) will continue to aggressively investigate charlatans who prey on the vulnerable to perpetuate financial crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge James M. Gibbons, HSI Chicago. “These type of crimes have devastating effects on the victims and our financial institutions. This close coordination with our law enforcement and judicial partners is essential to bring these criminals to justice.”
As part of the scheme, Odiah opened and maintained seven U.S. bank accounts to launder fraud proceeds. He opened these accounts using fraudulent passports in the names “James Princeton” and “Ryan Greg Mornson.” Between 2017 and 2019, more than $600,000 in fraud proceeds were deposited into these accounts. Once money was deposited, Odiah, posing as Princeton and Mornson, used a series of smaller, less conspicuous financial transactions to distribute fraud proceeds to those perpetrating the fraud schemes overseas.
In announcing the sentence, the Court found that although Odiah’s role in the charged scheme was limited to money laundering, Odiah was aware that the money being deposited into his bank accounts was from vulnerable people being defrauded. Judge Conley also considered the tremendous psychological and financial devastation to victims caused by romance fraud and other computer-based fraud schemes.
The charges against Odiah were the result of an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Home Security Investigations and the Vilas County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith P. Duchemin.
La Crosse Man Sentenced to More Than 9 Years for Methamphetamine CrimeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jack Taylor, 35, La Crosse, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James Peterson to 114 months in federal prison for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Taylor pleaded guilty to this charge on January 9, 2020.
On July 24, 2019, La Crosse police officers executed a search warrant at Taylor’s residence in La Crosse. Inside the residence, officers found over 100 grams of methamphetamine, a drug ledger, and a digital scale. At the time officers executed the search warrant, Taylor was on bond from a felony drug trafficking case in La Crosse County and two separate drug trafficking cases in Houston County, Minnesota. In addition, Taylor was on supervision in Houston County from a felony conviction for fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle.
In imposing the sentence, Judge Peterson noted that Taylor has a disturbing criminal history, including multiple violent felony convictions, and was involved in selling a large amount of methamphetamine to the La Crosse community. Judge Peterson also expressed his displeasure that Taylor continued to sell methamphetamine even after an arrest in La Crosse in January 2019 for methamphetamine trafficking. In total, Taylor’s criminal history includes 14 prior felony convictions.
The charge against Taylor was a result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse Police Department, La Crosse County Sheriff’s Office, and Winona (Minnesota) Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner handled the prosecution.
Wisconsin Dentist Sentenced to Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
A La Crosse, Wisconsin, dentist was sentenced to 72 months in prison today for tax evasion, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader for the Western District of Wisconsin.
According to evidence presented at trial, Frederick G. Kriemelmeyer, 71, operated a dental practice in La Crosse, Wisconsin. In 2007, Kriemelmeyer was ordered by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin to pay $135,337 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for unpaid income taxes. By 2012, the IRS had assessed Kriemelmeyer for more than $450,000 in taxes, interest, and penalties. Evidence presented at the trial showed Kriemelmeyer took a number of actions to evade paying the taxes he owed. From at least 2013 through 2015, Kriemelmeyer did not file tax returns reporting the income from his dental practice, directed his patients to pay him in cash or by check with blank payee lines, and paid his business and personal expenses with third-party checks and cash.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge William M. Conley ordered Kriemelmeyer to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $226,839 in restitution to the United States. Kriemelmeyer was remanded to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Blader commended special agents of the IRS-Criminal Investigation Division, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Eric C. Schmale of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
La Crosse Dentist Sentenced for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – A La Crosse, Wisconsin, dentist was sentenced to 72 months in prison today for tax evasion, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader for the Western District of Wisconsin.
According to evidence presented at trial, Frederick G. Kriemelmeyer, 71, operated a dental practice in La Crosse, Wisconsin. In 2007, Kriemelmeyer was ordered by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin to pay $135,337 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for unpaid income taxes. By 2012, the IRS had assessed Kriemelmeyer for more than $450,000 in taxes, interest, and penalties. Evidence presented at the trial showed Kriemelmeyer took a number of actions to evade paying the taxes he owed. From at least 2013 through 2015, Kriemelmeyer did not file tax returns reporting the income from his dental practice, directed his patients to pay him in cash or by check with blank payee lines, and paid his business and personal expenses with third-party checks and cash.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge William M. Conley ordered Kriemelmeyer to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $226,839 in restitution to the United States. Kriemelmeyer was remanded to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Blader commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Eric C. Schmale of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
U.S. Attorneys Acknowledge Police WeekRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorneys Matthew D. Krueger (Eastern District of Wisconsin) and Scott C. Blader (Western District of Wisconsin) recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“Our country’s safety and prosperity depend on the rule of law, which requires law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Krueger. “The men and women who serve as police officers deserve our deepest thanks, especially now as they report to work daily at greater risk to themselves. Our police officers epitomize the highest value of sacrifice for the good of others. We especially remember Officer Rittner and Officer Hetland who made the ultimate sacrifice last year.”
“I am inspired every day by the unwavering commitment of America’s law enforcement officers to protect us as they face challenges and threats such as violence, terrorism, and now a pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “They are dedicated to making our communities safer and our country more secure, and the heroes who have given their lives in service to us will not be forgotten.”
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.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including Milwaukee Police Officer Matthew Rittner on February 16 and Racine Police Officer John Hetland on June 17.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
In addition, the Milwaukee Police Department lost Officer Kou Her, who was killed on June 18 when a driver ran a red light and struck Her’s vehicle as he was driving home after his shift. The other driver has been charged with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be a live stream to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT).
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
Justice Department Commemorates National Crime Victims' Rights WeekRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services throughout the week. This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, “Seek Justice| Ensure Victims' Rights | Inspire Hope.”
“Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need. We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”
“This week is an important opportunity for us to show our unyielding support of all victims and renew our commitment to keeping our communities safe,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “My office will support and fight for those individuals who have been victimized, to ensure that they continue to have a voice in our legal system and to secure justice for them.”
“While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs. “This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion.”
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims' rights, needs, and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. President Trump and his administration have implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.
Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey. The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory. Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, which is made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.
During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns.
This year’s commemoration began yesterday, 25 years to the day when a truck bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, taking the lives of 168 people, including 19 children, as well as injuring hundreds of others. The mass murder remains the worst act of domestic terrorism in our nation’s history and led to the establishment of the Antiterrorism Emergency Reserve, which is administered by OVC, and has been used to provide direct services to hundreds of victims of mass violence and terrorism.
“Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people,” said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart. “I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival. I encourage everyone to also find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors.”
This year, the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when we can honor this year’s award recipients in person. During the ceremony, OVC will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims. The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy, and victim services. Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.
For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html.
Department of Justice Makes $850 Million Available to Help Public Safety Agencies Address PandemicRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - The U.S. Department of Justice announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
The State of Wisconsin is eligible to apply for $9,078,371 to distribute throughout the state. In addition, police and sheriffs’ departments in Wisconsin that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations. The amount allocated for these Wisconsin agencies is $4,935,544.
“This is a time of extraordinary challenge for state and local law enforcement agencies. These grants that have been made available will enhance their ability to protect the public while also enhancing their capability to protect and keep safe those law enforcement officers who are on the streets protecting us every single day,” said Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin.
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs, and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to January 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.
Public Urged to Report Suspected COVID-19 FraudRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader of the Western District of Wisconsin today urged the public to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or by sending a message to the NCDF e-mail address [email protected].
In coordination with the Department of Justice, Attorney General William Barr has directed U.S. Attorneys to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of Coronavirus fraud schemes.
“My office will work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to swiftly investigate and prosecute any criminal conduct related to COVID-19,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “Those who take advantage of this crisis to engage in fraud schemes will be held accountable for preying on our communities.”
Some examples of these schemes include:
- Individuals and businesses selling fake cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud.
- Phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Malicious websites and apps that appear to share Coronavirus-related information to gain and lock access to your devices until payment is received.
- Seeking donations fraudulently for illegitimate or non-existent charitable organizations.
- Medical providers obtaining patient information for COVID-19 testing and then using that information to fraudulently bill for other tests and procedures.
In a memorandum to U.S. Attorneys issued March 19, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen also directed each U.S. Attorney to appoint a Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator to serve as the legal counsel for the federal judicial district on matters relating to the Coronavirus, direct the prosecution of Coronavirus-related crimes, and to conduct outreach and awareness activities. The Western District of Wisconsin Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator is Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick Elgersma.
The NCDF can receive and enter complaints into a centralized system that can be accessed by all U.S. Attorneys, as well as Justice Department litigating and law enforcement components to identify, investigate and prosecute fraud schemes. The NCDF coordinates complaints with 16 additional federal law enforcement agencies, as well as state Attorneys General and local authorities.
To find more about Department of Justice resources and information, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
US Attorney Scott Blader Says Mission of Justice Department Continues During Current CrisisRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced today that the critical mission of the Justice Department is continuing during the COVID-19 crisis.
“My office remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of the people of Western Wisconsin during these challenging times,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “At the national level and within each federal district, Justice Department representatives are maintaining our ongoing cooperation and coordination with our local and state law enforcement partners to safeguard our justice system and thus the safety and security of our nation.”
To protect public safety, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to charge and prosecute criminal cases, including national security matters, violent offenders, and all criminal conduct related to the current pandemic. There have been reports of individuals and businesses selling fake cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud, reports of phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and reports of malware being inserted into mobile apps designed to track the spread of the virus. Any such criminal conduct occurring in the Western District of Wisconsin will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Madison is working closely with the Chief Judge of the Western District of Wisconsin to ensure that every appropriate precaution is being taken to ensure the health of those who are called before the court.
“Our free society allows an open exchange of thoughts, ideas and beliefs. However, it is critical that citizens use caution when attempting to find accurate and current information on the pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “I urge Wisconsin residents to rely on organizations such as the CDC (www.cdc.gov), the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (www.dhs.wisconsin.gov), your county health department, or your doctor’s office.”
New Richmond Man Sentenced to 12 Years for Mortgage Rescue Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Aston Wood, 56, New Richmond, Wisconsin and Miami, Florida, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 12 years in federal prison for a mortgage rescue scheme that defrauded more than 70 Wisconsin homeowners. Wood pleaded guilty to wire fraud and bankruptcy fraud on January 6, 2020.
U.S. Attorney Blader was joined in making the announcement by Robert E. Hughes, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Milwaukee Field Office; Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Field Office of IRS Criminal Investigation; Catherine Huber, Special Agent in Charge, Central Region, Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General; and Patrick S. Layng, United States Trustee for Region 11.
At the sentencing, Judge Peterson called the defendant a professional conman, said that this was “a particularly heartless crime,” and told the defendant that his crime “stands apart from anything I’ve come across in my six years on the bench.”
Between 2014 and 2019, Wood defrauded more than 70 Wisconsin homeowners out of approximately $390,000. Many homeowners unfortunately lost their homes in connection with the scheme. Using the names ASC Financial, LLC and Maywood Capital II, LLC, Wood solicited people facing the possibility of foreclosure and represented to them that he could help them stay in their home by obtaining loan refinancing or modification. He told customers that to stop foreclosures, they needed to immediately begin making mortgage payments towards a new loan as part of a trial period while he worked out the details of the loan with the mortgage lenders. Wood instructed customers to make these mortgage payments to businesses he controlled under the premise that he would forward the payments to the customers’ mortgage lenders.
Wood was able to collect mortgage payments from homeowners for months, even years, by falsely reassuring them that their payments were going to their mortgage lenders and that new loans were being finalized. In fact, Wood’s bank records confirmed he deposited the customers’ mortgage payments and spent their money on his own travel and living expenses. When customers eventually lost their homes in foreclosure, Wood told them that it was due to the mortgage lenders’ greed or negligence.
Wood defrauded some homeowners out of additional money even after they lost their homes by falsely telling them that he would use the money to help them buy back their foreclosed property or use the money to sue the mortgage companies.
As part of his fraud scheme, Wood advised many customers to file bankruptcy in the Western District of Wisconsin. The automatic stay triggered by the bankruptcy filings temporarily stalled the foreclosures, which extended the time in which Wood could collect the monthly mortgage payments. In November 2016, the U.S. Trustee’s Office began investigating Wood and in October 2017, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Catherine J. Furay issued an injunction permanently barring Wood from soliciting, offering to perform, or performing services relating to mortgage foreclosure and debt relief. Despite the court order, however, Wood continued to engage in mortgage rescue fraud under a new business name.
U.S. Attorney Blader praised the work of the U.S. Trustee’s Office and the law enforcement agents who investigated the criminal case. U.S. Attorney Blader also urged Wisconsin residents to be alert to this type of fraud.
The following are tips to avoid being a victim of mortgage fraud schemes from the U.S. Department of Treasury and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development:
- Beware of anyone seeking to charge you in advance for mortgage modification services. In most cases, charging fees in advance of a mortgage modification is illegal.
- Only your mortgage company has the discretion to grant a loan modification. Therefore, no third party can guarantee or pre-approve your mortgage modification application.
- Beware of individuals and companies claiming that your payments should be sent to an alternate contact or address that is different from the information in your mortgage statement.
- Beware of individuals or companies that offer money-back guarantees or insist on upfront fees and can only accept payment by cash, cashier's check, or wire transfer.
- Beware of private individuals claiming to be affiliated with government-backed refinancing programs.
The charges against Wood were the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General, with assistance from the Office of the United States Trustee. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith P. Duchemin.
Dentist Pleads Guilty to Oxycodone DiversionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Christopher Kania, 40, Portage, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty on Thursday, March 12, in U.S. District Court in Madison to obtaining oxycodone by use of misrepresentation, fraud, and deception.
This charge carries a maximum penalty of four years in federal prison. Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson scheduled Kania’s sentencing for May 26, 2020.
During the plea hearing, Kania admitted that on August 22, 2017, while working as a dentist in Mauston, Wisconsin, he wrote a prescription to his dental hygienist for oxycodone pills and asked her to fill the prescription and return the pills to him for his own use. His hygienist, who cooperated with the investigation, complied with his request, filled the prescription, and provided Kania with all of the oxycodone. Kania compensated her for the insurance co-pay.
“Professionals who divert opioids fuel deadly addictions and undermine the public’s confidence in the medical community,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “My office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to prosecute opioid diversion cases to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Dentists and their employees are trusted to handle pharmaceutical medications responsibly. When these practitioners divert potent pain medications for illegitimate purposes, they sabotage the public’s trust and safety within our communities. The DEA, partnered with local law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, will continue to investigate and prosecute unscrupulous medical professionals,” remarked Milwaukee Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge Paul E. Maxwell.
The charge against Kania was the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration-Madison Office. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper.
Madison Heroin Dealer Sentenced to 8 YearsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Van Williamson, 43, Madison, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to eight years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Williamson pleaded guilty to this charge on December 10, 2019.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson found that Williamson was the leader of a heroin conspiracy that was responsible for distributing 1,000 to 3,000 grams of heroin in a six-month period in the Madison area. He reasoned that given the large amount of heroin involved in the conspiracy, an eight-year sentence was necessary to protect the public from the significant detrimental impact of heroin trafficking. Judge Peterson stressed that the defendant exploited the illness of others and contributed to a public health epidemic for his own profit.
Co-defendant Cortez Jackson is scheduled for sentencing in front of Judge Peterson on March 23, 2019.
The charge against Williamson was the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution of the case has been handled by United States Attorney Scott Blader and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Reinhard.
La Crosse Shooter Sentenced to 30 MonthsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Robert J. Powell IV, 29, La Crosse, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 30 months in prison, for possessing ammunition as a convicted felon. Powell pleaded guilty to this charge on October 10, 2019.
On July 28, 2019, Powell was patronizing bars in downtown La Crosse. At approximately 1:30 a.m., a fight started in the street and city cameras showed Powell remove a handgun from his rear waistband and discharge the gun into the air. Powell fled the scene, and one .380 shell casing and one round of .380 ammunition were recovered. Although the firearm Powell used was never recovered, federal law prohibits felons from possessing ammunition. Powell has two felony convictions, for manufacture/deliver marijuana and possession of marijuana.
The charge against Powell was the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
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 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.
Marathon County Teacher Charged with Attempting to Produce Child Pornography
Travis. C. Greil, 38, Wausau, Wisconsin, is charged with six counts of attempting to use a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. The indictment alleges that between August 2015 and February 2020, he attempted to use six minors to produce child pornography using an iPad. During this time, Greil was employed as a teacher at D.C. Everest High School.
Greil is in custody in Marathon County following the filing of a complaint charging him with related state offenses. The date for his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Madison, Wisconsin has not been set.
If convicted, Greil faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum of 30 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 – Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Everest Metro and Wausau Police Departments, the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office, and the Marathon County District Attorney’s Office, with the cooperation of the D.C. Everest Area School District. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman is handling the prosecution.
This indictment has been brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Wisconsin Rapids Woman Charged with Stealing Mail, Wire Fraud & Identity Theft
Shelby Bottensek, 42, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, is charged with conspiring to steal mail, stealing mail, wire fraud, identity theft, and possessing a forged check. The indictment alleges that Bottensek conspired with others known and unknown to the grand jury to steal mail from mailboxes, use credit cards found in the stolen mail, and use the identity of another person in the commission of a felony.
The indictment alleges that Bottensek and others conspired to steal over 350 pieces of mail addressed to over 170 individuals and entities from mailboxes in Amherst, Wisconsin Rapids, Waupaca, Port Edwards, Nekoosa, Necedah, Plover, Portage, Wausau, Friendship, Janesville, Westfield, and Town of Saratoga, Wisconsin from August through October 2019. The indictment alleges that Bottensek and others would transport the stolen mail to Bottensek’s residence in Wisconsin Rapids, open the mail, and remove anything of value, including cash, uncashed checks, and credit cards.
The indictment also charges Bottensek with stealing and attempting to steal mail from two authorized depositories for mail in Wisconsin Rapids on January 19, 2020.
The indictment further charges Bottensek with four counts of wire fraud for allegedly using credit cards found in the stolen mail to put money in jail commissary accounts of an inmate in the Walworth County jail and an inmate in the Wood County jail, and to make online purchases and purchases at businesses in Portage and Wood Counties. The indictment also charges her with four counts of using the identification of another person during the alleged wire fraud violations.
The eleventh count of the indictment charges Bottensek with possessing and uttering a forged security by using two corporate checks that had been stolen from the mail and contained forged signatures on the payor signature line to pay for items purchased at a business in Beloit, Wisconsin.
If convicted, Bottensek faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison on the conspiracy charge, five years on the stealing mail charge, 20 years on each of the wire fraud charges, and 10 years in prison on the possession of a forged security charge. Each of the identity theft charges carries a mandatory minimum penalty of two years, which would be served consecutive to any sentence imposed on the wire fraud charges.
The charges against Bottensek are the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Wood County Sheriff’s Department, and Plover and Grand Rapids Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Graber is handling the prosecution.
Sun Prairie Man Charged with Armed Robbery
Mekhi Moss, 19, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, is charged with the robbery of a business in Sun Prairie and with brandishing a firearm during the robbery. The indictment alleges that on January 21, 2020, Moss robbed the Stop-N-Go on Tower Drive in Sun Prairie, and that he brandished a firearm during this crime of violence.
If convicted, Moss faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on the robbery charge, and a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years on the brandishing a firearm charge. Federal law requires that any penalty imposed on the brandishing a firearm charge be served consecutive to any sentence imposed on the robbery charge. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Sun Prairie Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey C. Stephan is handling the prosecution.
Chicago Man Charged with Robbery of Madison Business
Bernard Thomas, 28, Chicago, Illinois, is charged with robbing a Madison, Wisconsin business. The indictment alleges that on December 28, 2019, Thomas and five accomplices robbed Rocky’s Liquor on the West Beltline Highway in Madison.
The indictment alleges that one of Thomas’s accomplices brandished a weapon at an employee and demanded money while Thomas and the four other accomplices stole cases of liquor.
If convicted, Thomas faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Madison, Town of Madison, and Fitchburg Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow is handling the prosecution.
Monticello Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Ammunition
Justin Wenger, 37, Monticello, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of ammunition. The indictment alleges that he possessed .223 caliber ammunition on January 16, 2020.
If convicted, Wenger faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Monroe and Monticello Police Departments, Green County Sheriff’s Office, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey C. Stephan is handling the prosecution.
The indictments charging Moss, Thomas, and Wenger 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 crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Crawford County Man Charged with Methamphetamine Crime
Travis Johnson, 31, Gays Mills, 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 November 10, 2019.
If convicted, Johnson faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma is handling the prosecution.
DeForest Man Sentenced to 18 Years for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Michael Hinze, 43, DeForest, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William Conley to 18 years in federal prison for receiving child pornography. Hinze faced a minimum of 15 years in prison for this offense because he had a prior conviction for sexual assault of a child. This term of imprisonment will be followed by 25 years of supervised release. Hinze pleaded guilty to this offense on December 16, 2019.
In the fall of 2018, Hinze began communicating on Kik with a man who was sexually assaulting a child in his care. In September, that person sent Hinze a sexually explicit image of the child.
In sentencing Hinze above the advisory guidelines and statutory minimum, Judge Conley expressed concern that Hinze’s predatory nature made him a danger to children. Judge Conley was also concerned that the defendant seemed to be living a double life in that he was portraying himself to the public as an upstanding person while grooming and attempting to gain access to children.
The charge against Hinze was the result of an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation – Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the DeForest Police Department. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.
Justice Department Announces Crimes Against Elderly InitiativesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, joined Attorney General William P. Barr today in announcing two initiatives to protect the elderly.
National Elder Fraud Hotline
The first initiative is the launch of a National Elder Fraud Hotline for seniors who may be victims of financial fraud.
The Hotline will be staffed by experienced case managers who can provide personalized support to callers. Case managers will assist callers with reporting the suspected fraud to relevant agencies and by providing resources and referrals to other appropriate services as needed. When applicable, case managers will complete a complaint form with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) for Internet-facilitated crimes and submit a consumer complaint to the Federal Trade Commission on behalf of the caller. The Hotline’s toll free number is 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).
“Americans are fed up with the constant barrage of scams that maliciously target the elderly and other vulnerable citizens,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “This year, the Department of Justice prosecuted more than 400 defendants, whose schemes totaled more than a billion dollars. I want to thank the men and women of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch, which coordinated this effort, and all those in the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and Criminal Division who worked tirelessly to bring these cases. The Department is committed to stopping the full range of criminal activities that exploit America’s seniors.”
“Crimes against the elderly target some of the most vulnerable individuals in our communities,” said United States Attorney Blader. “My office will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to bring those who prey on the elderly to justice.”
The following are examples of elder fraud cases recently prosecuted in the Western District of Wisconsin:
Emmanuel Odiah, 33, a Nigerian national, has pleaded guilty to conspiring with others to launder the proceeds of a romance fraud scheme that involved primarily senior citizen victims, including one in Wisconsin. Other individuals, operating overseas, created fake profiles on internet dating services, gained the trust of the victims, and convinced the victims to transfer money to bank accounts maintained by Odiah in the United States under two fake identities. Odiah will be sentenced on April 7. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
Jamie Smith owned and operated two precious metals brokerages houses in Hudson, Wisconsin, and during the operation of these businesses, he offered to appraise coins, buy them, trade them, or sell them for his clients. Instead, he defrauded them by selling their coins and using the funds to pay his monthly mortgage and utilities, to make ATM cash withdrawals, and to make purchases at grocery stores, liquor stores, bars, hotels, and fast food restaurants. FBI agents identified 46 victims in this case, and the loss amount was over $1.24 million. Many of Smith’s victims were elderly and the stolen coins represented significant portions of their retirement assets. In December 2019, Smith was sentenced to 54 months in federal prison.
Patrick O’Connor, a real estate developer and licensed real estate agent in Waunakee, Wisconsin, solicited funds from individuals for investment in an online brokerage account, projecting an average annual return over 20%. Instead, he used investors’ funds for his personal expenses. To perpetuate the fraud, O’Connor provided investors with fictitious account statements that showed the investors’ supposed year-to-date profits and their supposed current portfolio balance. Even after being interviewed by an IRS criminal investigator, O’Connor continued to solicit investments and convinced two investors to provide him with over $1.7 million. In total, O’Connor convinced six investors to invest over $12 million with him. At his sentencing in July 2019, the judge called O’Connor’s scheme “predatory” and that his decision to take more money from investors after being interviewed by law enforcement was “morally bankrupt.” O’Connor was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison.
National Nursing Home Initiative
U.S. Attorney Blader also joins with Attorney General Barr in announcing today the Department of Justice’s National Nursing Home Initiative, which will coordinate and enhance civil and criminal efforts to pursue nursing homes that provide grossly substandard care to their residents.
“Millions of seniors count on nursing homes to provide them with quality care, and to treat them with dignity and respect when they are most vulnerable,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Yet, all too often, we have found nursing home owners or operators who put profits over patients, leading to instances of gross abuse and neglect. This national initiative will bring to justice those owners and operators who have profited at the expense of their residents, and help to ensure residents receive the care to which they are entitled.”
A number of factors in identifying the most problematic nursing homes are considered, including facilities that consistently fail to provide adequate nursing staff to care for their residents, fail to adhere to basic protocols of hygiene and infection control, fail to provide their residents with enough food to eat, withhold pain medication, or use physical or chemical restraints to restrain or otherwise sedate their residents.
The National Elder Fraud Hotline and the National Nursing Home Initiative reflect the Justice Department’s commitment to protecting our nation’s seniors. The department’s Elder Justice Initiative in conjunction with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices coordinate investigative and enforcement efforts against nursing homes and other long-term care entities that deliver grossly substandard care to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, and the investigation and prosecution of those who defraud the elderly. The Initiative and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices also support the efforts of state and local prosecutors, law enforcement, and other elder justice professionals to combat elder abuse, neglect and financial exploitation, with the development of training, resources, and information. Learn more about the Justice Department’s Elder Justice Initiative at www.justice.gov/elderjustice/.
Wisconsin Falconer Sentenced for Bartering Migratory Bird Taken from the WildRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that James Kitzman, 69, Oak Creek, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. Magistrate Judge Stephen L. Crocker for engaging in a conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act with Edward Taylor, who was a falconer from Michigan. Kitzman pleaded guilty to the charge on December 30, 2019.
Magistrate Judge Crocker ordered that Kitzman not engage in the sport of falconry for three years beginning today, and advised Kitzman that if he violated the three-year ban, he risked being charged with a felony and held in contempt of a court order. The magistrate judge also imposed a fine of $15,000 payable to the Lacey Act Reward Fund, which Kitzman paid immediately. Finally, the magistrate judge ordered that Kitzman forfeit to the government his Toyota pickup truck that he used to transport the illegally bartered goshawk.
Kitzman and his co-conspirator, Edward Taylor, arranged to barter a northern goshawk taken from the wild in Vilas County, Wisconsin in exchange for a captive-bred Finnish goshawk. It was part of the conspiracy that they covered up the receipt and transport of the northern goshawk from Wisconsin to Michigan, in violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and the Lacey Act. It is illegal to sell or barter northern goshawks because they are migratory birds and protected by the MBTA.
Specifically, on May 26, 2017, Kitzman took from the wild a female northern goshawk from a nest located on state land in Vilas County. Kitzman traded the northern goshawk for a Finnish goshawk from Taylor. Both Taylor and Kitzman filled out false reports with the Michigan DNR and Wisconsin DNR to cover up their actions. Kitzman told his associates to “keep it hush-hush and not tell anybody” that he was giving the female northern goshawk to Taylor. Kitzman also told Taylor to use a cover story if ever asked by authorities about how the northern goshawk was taken and transferred.
At today’s sentencing, Magistrate Judge Crocker observed that Kitzman appeared to be an exceptional falconer that somehow went off the beaten path which, while tragic, was entirely avoidable. The magistrate judge noted, “The public need to know that the Lacey Act matters; the falconry rules matter. These laws are in place to protect the falconry birds, and the public needs to know this message -- the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the government -- has their back.” The magistrate judge added, “If you break these rules, you will be punished, no matter how good a falconer you are.”
Edward Taylor was sentenced on February 25, 2020. He received a fine of $10,000 and was ordered to transfer the illegally taken northern goshawk to the government so that it could be placed with a wildlife rehabilitator for its eventual release back into the wild.
The charges against Taylor and Kitzman were the result of an investigation conducted by law enforcement agents with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Law Enforcement, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The prosecution of this case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Graber.
Stevens Point Man Sentenced to 18 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Nicholas Kvatek, 41, Steven Point, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 18 years in federal prison for producing child pornography. This term of imprisonment is to be followed by 25 years of supervised release. Kvatek pleaded guilty to this charge on November 26, 2019.
Following the execution of a search warrant at Kvatek’s home, law enforcement officers found two videos of Kvatek sexually assaulting a then 14-year-old girl. In addition to the two videos produced by Kvatek which were the subject of his guilty plea, officers also found numerous images of prepubescent and toddler girls being sexually assaulted. Kvatek did not appear in these images.
In sentencing the defendant, Judge Conley was concerned about the fact that Kvatek had a lengthy criminal history that seemed to be escalating. Judge Conley also expressed concerns about the defendant’s history of drug use and was concerned the defendant did not understand the seriousness of his actions.
The charge against Kvatek was the result of an investigation conducted by Stevens Point Police Department and the Portage County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.
This investigation was a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
Madison Man Sentenced for 2nd Conviction for Passing Counterfeit CurrencyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Cornelius Stewart, 25, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William Conley to 36 months in federal prison for conspiring with others to pass counterfeit U.S. currency at numerous merchants in Wisconsin in early 2019. Stewart pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge on December 13, 2019.
In addition to the prison time for this new conviction, Stewart also received an additional 12-month sentence based upon the revocation of his federal supervision for a prior conviction for passing counterfeit currency. The 12-month sentence will be served consecutive to the 36-month sentence. In February 2017, Stewart and four other co-defendants were convicted of passing counterfeit $100 bills in southern Wisconsin during 2016. Stewart served two years in prison as a result of that conviction, and was released to federal supervision in early 2019.
From March through May 2019, while he was on federal supervision, Stewart again supplied counterfeit currency to four new associates. They passed the counterfeit $100 bills at nearly 80 restaurants and merchants from Hudson, Wisconsin to Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. The group would make small-dollar purchases for which they would present the fake $100 bills in order to receive a large amount of change in legitimate currency from the merchants. His co-conspirators would bring legitimate currency back to Stewart in exchange for more counterfeit bills to pass.
Judge Conley, who had sentenced Stewart for the prior offense, expressed frustration with Stewart’s choice to commit the exact same crime and to do so while on supervised release for his original conviction. In addition to the total sentence of four years, Judge Conley ordered Stewart to pay restitution of $8,294.33 to the victims of his scheme.
The charges in this case were the result of an investigation conducted by the Stoughton, Hudson, Madison, Middleton, and Beaver Dam Police Departments in coordination with the U.S. Secret Service, with the assistance of other police departments and sheriffs’ offices in Wisconsin. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Anderson.
Michigan Falconer Sentenced for Bartering Migratory Bird Taken from the WildRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Edward Taylor, 64, Fruitport, Michigan, was sentenced today by U.S. Magistrate Judge Stephen L. Crocker for engaging in a conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act. Magistrate Judge Crocker imposed a $10,000 fine payable to the Lacey Act Reward Fund, in care of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Taylor paid the fine immediately.
Magistrate Judge Crocker also ordered that Taylor transfer the illegally-taken northern goshawk to the government so that it could be taken to a wildlife rehabilitator for its eventual release back into the wild. Taylor turned the northern goshawk over to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service this morning.
On December 11, 2019, Taylor pleaded guilty to arranging with his co-conspirator James Kitzman to barter a northern goshawk taken from the wild in Vilas County, Wisconsin in exchange for a captive-bred Finnish goshawk. It was part of the conspiracy that they covered up the receipt and transport of the northern goshawk from Wisconsin to Michigan, in violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and the Lacey Act. It is illegal to sell or barter northern goshawks because they are migratory birds and protected by the MBTA.
Specifically, on May 26, 2017, Kitzman took from the wild a female northern goshawk from a nest located on state land in Vilas County. Kitzman traded the northern goshawk for a Finnish goshawk from Taylor. Both Taylor and Kitzman filled out false reports with the Michigan and Wisconsin Departments of Natural Resources to cover up their actions. Kitzman told his associates to “keep it hush-hush and not tell anybody” that he was giving the female northern goshawk to Taylor. Kitzman also told Taylor to use a cover story if ever asked by authorities about how the northern goshawk was taken and transferred.
At today’s sentencing, Magistrate Judge Crocker observed that, “This Court sees a lot of federal wildlife prosecutions. The Lacey Act and Wisconsin state statutes are there for a reason. They provide for the appropriate stewardship of the natural resources found in Wisconsin.” He added that a message needs to be sent to the falconry and raptor propagator communities, “If you don’t follow the rules you will be prosecuted,” and noted, “This is unacceptable conduct and it will be prosecuted as necessary. It will hit you where it hurts,” observing that the wildlife will be forfeited and large fines imposed, as happened in this case.
Kitzman’s sentencing is set for March 2, 2020, at 11:00 a.m.
The charges against Taylor and Kitzman were the result of an investigation conducted by law enforcement agents with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Law Enforcement, and Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The prosecution of this case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Graber.
La Crosse Dentist Convicted of Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – A federal jury in Madison, Wisconsin, convicted a La Crosse, Wisconsin, dentist today of four counts of tax evasion, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the U.S. Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader for the Western District of Wisconsin. The jury deliberated for approximately two hours.
According to evidence presented at trial, Frederick G. Kriemelmeyer, 70, operated a dental practice in La Crosse, Wisconsin. In 2007, Kriemelmeyer was ordered by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin to pay $135,337 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for unpaid income taxes. By 2012, the IRS had assessed Kriemelmeyer for more than $450,000 in taxes, interest, and penalties. Evidence presented at the trial showed Kriemelmeyer took a number of actions to evade paying the taxes he owed, from at least 2013 through 2015, Kriemelmeyer did not file tax returns reporting the income from his dental practice, directed his patients to pay him in cash or by check with blank payee lines, and paid his business and personal expenses with third-party checks and cash.
U.S. District Judge William M. Conley has set sentencing for May 19, 2020. At sentencing, Kriemelmeyer faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for each count of tax evasion. He also faces a period of supervised release, monetary penalties, and restitution.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Blader commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Eric C. Schmale of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Jury Finds Wisconsin Dentist Guilty of Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
A federal jury in Madison, Wisconsin, convicted a La Crosse, Wisconsin, dentist today of four counts of tax evasion, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader for the Western District of Wisconsin.
According to evidence presented at trial, Frederick G. Kriemelmeyer, 70, operated a dental practice in La Crosse, Wisconsin. In 2007, Kriemelmeyer was ordered by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin to pay $135,337 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for unpaid income taxes. By 2012, the IRS had assessed Kriemelmeyer for more than $450,000 in taxes, interest, and penalties. Evidence presented at the trial showed Kriemelmeyer took a number of actions to evade paying the taxes he owed, from at least 2013 through 2015, Kriemelmeyer did not file tax returns reporting the income from his dental practice, directed his patients to pay him in cash or by check with blank payee lines, and paid his business and personal expenses with third-party checks and cash.
U.S. District Judge William M. Conley has set sentencing for May 19, 2020. At sentencing, Kriemelmeyer faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for each count of tax evasion. He also faces a period of supervised release, monetary penalties, and restitution.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Blader commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Eric C. Schmale of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman, who prosecuted the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Madison Man Sentenced to 150 Months for Robberies & Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Willie Champ, 19, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William Conley to 150 months for two gun charges and 11 robberies. Champ pleaded guilty to these charges on October 30, 2019.
Between June 2018 and May 2019, Champ robbed eleven convenience and liquor stores in Madison, Fitchburg, and Oregon, Wisconsin. During 10 of those robberies, he brandished guns. After the last robbery, police stopped his vehicle and recovered a realistic looking AK-47 type airsoft gun that was used in five of the robberies. Police later searched his residence where they found a Taurus 9mm pistol that was used in four of the robberies.
In addition to the robbery charges, Champ was charged with brandishing and using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. These gun charges carried a mandatory minimum of 12 years in federal prison. Champ was sentenced to an additional six months for the robberies.
At sentencing, Judge Conley noted the severity of these crimes, calling them terrifying offenses in which Champ targeted these businesses. Judge Conley recognized the effect of these crimes on the victims who experienced this violence and society as a whole living now in increased fear. Champ also faces charges for an additional nine robbery offenses in Dane County Circuit Court.
The charges against Champ were the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison, Fitchburg, Oregon, and Town of Madison Police Departments, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and with the assistance of the Dane County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan handled the prosecution.
This indictment 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 crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
La Crosse Felon Sentenced to 50 Months for Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Yovon C. Boyd, 34, La Crosse, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William Conley to 50 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Boyd pleaded guilty to this charge on November 21, 2019.
On October 16, 2018, at 4:00 a.m., La Crosse police officers were dispatched to a domestic disturbance call. When they arrived at the residence, it was dark and they saw Boyd in the front yard sitting in a lawn chair. The officers illuminated the area with flashlights and their body-worn cameras captured Boyd reach into his pocket, pull out a gun, and throw it under the chair. The Bersa .380 pistol was later found there by officers. Boyd was on probation for a felony child abuse conviction.
At sentencing, Judge Conley remarked that Boyd’s gun possession endangered all those present at the residence and the responding police officers. Boyd’s daily use of crack cocaine exacerbated this risk, and Judge Conley said the situation had the potential to turn into an officer-involved shooting with disastrous results. Judge Conley assessed Boyd’s lengthy criminal record, which included six domestic related offenses, and past sentences. Boyd asked for leniency, indicating he was ready to make changes in his life. Judge Conley asked if Boyd had ever given similar speeches to judges before. Boyd admitted that he had. Judge Conley then found that a significant sentence was warranted based on Boyd’s criminal history, drug use, and the seriousness of this offense.
The charge against Boyd were the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan handled the prosecution.
This indictment 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 crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Altoona School Superintendent Charged with Sex Trafficking & Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, and Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul announced today the unsealing of an indictment charging an Altoona man with sex trafficking of a minor and production of child pornography. Daniel Peggs, 32, was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury sitting in Madison on February 12, 2020. The indictment was unsealed today following Peggs’ arrest. Peggs is the Superintendent of the Altoona School District.
The indictment alleges that from October 2015 through May 2016, Peggs recruited and maintained an individual knowing that the individual was a minor and would be caused to engage in a commercial sex act. The indictment also alleges that in December 2015, Peggs used the minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the conduct. Specifically, the indictment alleges that Peggs used an iPhone to produce a video of the child pornography.
According to United States Attorney Blader, the conduct Peggs is charged with does not involve a student from the Altoona School District.
Peggs was arrested today in Altoona. He will be brought to Madison for an initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Stephen L. Crocker in U.S. District Court at 1:30 p.m.
If convicted, Peggs faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison on the sex trafficking a minor charge. The production of child pornography charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years.
The charges against Peggs are the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. The Altoona Police Department assisted during Peggs’ arrest today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Pfluger is handling the prosecution.
This investigation was a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
For additional information about human trafficking, please visit the U.S. Department of Justice at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking or the Wisconsin Department of Justice at www.doj.state.wi.us/ocvs/human-trafficking.
You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Jury Finds Madison Man Guilty of Armed Robbery, Drug & Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jeremiah Edwards, 34, Madison, Wisconsin, was found guilty yesterday evening of armed robbery of an O’Reilly Auto Parts store, brandishing a firearm during that crime, being a felon in possession of a firearm, possessing THC-products with an intent to distribute, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime. The jury reached its verdict after 7 hours of deliberations following four days of testimony in federal court in Madison.
The evidence presented at trial showed the Edwards, along with Kanasha Woods, 25, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, robbed the O’Reilly Auto Parts Store on South Stoughton Road in the Town of Blooming Grove, Wisconsin, on November 8, 2018. Both Edwards and Woods brandished firearms during the robbery and obtained cash from the safe and cash register drawers. Edwards and Woods fled the scene in Edwards’s vehicle and drove to the Moorish Science Temple in downtown Madison where Madison police officers attempted a traffic stop. Edwards evaded the stop and led the police in a high-speed chase through downtown Madison that ended with him crashing the vehicle and fleeing on foot.
During a search of the getaway vehicle, officers found the robbery proceeds, a ski mask and gloves used by Woods in the armed robbery, a receipt from Walmart showing the purchase of the mask and gloves, and a tactical light/laser that was on the firearm used by Edwards during the robbery. Officers also found a variety of marijuana and THC products in individually packaged portions with home-made labels with skull & crossbones in the names of “OG” and “LK.” During a second search of the vehicle, officers found a loaded 9mm Glock 19 semi-automatic pistol along with a black stocking hat with a green Moorish star on it in a hidden compartment in the ceiling of the vehicle behind a sunglasses holder. Analysts from the Wisconsin State Crime Lab in Madison testified that the Glock 19 and the black stocking hat contained Edwards’s DNA.
The government also presented evidence that four hours after the robbery, Edwards drained his bank account at an ATM in a laundromat located just one mile from the crash site, and fled to Chicago using a fake ID in the name of Henry Gilmore. Edwards was arrested in Chicago on March 11, 2019.
At trial, Woods testified that after attending services at the Moorish Science Temple in Madison on the day of the robbery, she was told by Caliph Muab-el, the Grand Sheik of the Temple (and Edwards’s brother), to get into Edwards’ vehicle and that she could trust Edwards that he would drive her home safely. Woods testified that Edwards told her he made and sold THC products, and that he supplied the marijuana and THC products that she was selling on behalf of Caliph Muab-el. Edwards offered her two exotic strains of marijuana to sample. After smoking the marijuana, Edwards pulled out the Glock and pointed it at Woods and told her he wanted her help as a lookout for a robbery. He told her she could “make some money or get hurt.” He then drove her to a Walmart and gave her $20, and told her to buy a mask and gloves for the robbery. Edwards then drove to the O’Reilly store and circled around it a number of times waiting for customers to leave the store. Once the parking lot was empty, Edwards and Woods entered the store brandishing pistols and ordered the store manager to show Edwards the safe. Edwards was unhappy with the three-minute time delay on the safe and threatened the manager by racking his gun and telling the manager, “don’t make me f*** you up.”
Woods pleaded guilty to the armed robbery of the O’Reilly store on March 25, 2019. She was sentenced on June 19, 2019, to 42 months in prison.
Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson scheduled Edwards’s sentencing for April 17, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. Edwards faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years on the robbery charge, 10 years on the felon in possession charge, and five years on the drug charge. He also faces a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years on the brandishing charge during the robbery, and another mandatory minimum penalty of five years on the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime. Federal law requires that the mandatory seven-year and five-year gun sentences be served consecutively to each other, and to any sentence imposed on the robbery charge, the drug charge, and the felon in possession charge.
The charges against Edwards and Woods are the result of an investigation by the Dane County Sheriff’s Office, Madison Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorneys Chadwick M. Elgersma and Daniel J. Graber handled the prosecution.
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 crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
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.
Two Chicago Men Charged with Madison Armed Robberies
Justin Harris, 24, and Robert ONeal, 33, both of Chicago, Illinois, are charged with two armed robberies of Madison, Wisconsin businesses and brandishing a firearm during each robbery.
The indictment alleges that Harris and ONeal robbed the Northside Liquor Store on North Sherman Avenue on January 25, 2020, and that they brandished a firearm during the robbery. The indictment further alleges that Harris and ONeal robbed the Citgo gas station on Northport Drive on the same day, and that they brandished a firearm during the robbery.
If convicted, Harris and ONeal face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each armed robbery charge, and a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years in federal prison on each charge of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Federal law requires that any penalty imposed for the charge of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed.
The charges against Harris and ONeal are the result of an investigation by the Madison and Oshkosh Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow is handling the prosecution.
Medford Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearm
Michael Alexander, 53, Medford, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The indictment alleges that on December 29, 2019, he possessed a loaded .45 caliber pistol and ammunition.
If convicted, Alexander faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey C. Stephan is handing the prosecution.
The indictments charging Harris, ONeal, and Alexander 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 crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
La Crosse Man Charged with Methamphetamine Crime
Seth Strand, 31, La Crosse, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he possessed the methamphetamine on January 22, 2020.
If convicted, Strand faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin State Patrol. United States Attorney Scott C. Blader and Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron D. Wegner are handling the prosecution.
Armed Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced to Five YearsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jermaine Stamps, 33, of Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to five years in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, for possessing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Stamps pleaded guilty to this charge on October 30, 2019.
In June and July 2019, Stamps distributed methamphetamine to an undercover officer on five occasions. On July 18, 2019, the Dane County Narcotics Task Force executed a search warrant at his apartment. They recovered 64 grams of methamphetamine, a loaded Glock 9mm pistol and $1,079. Stamps admitted he had been distributing narcotics for five years, and that he had recently begun selling methamphetamine too.
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 and prosecutors and communities to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition, and violent crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
The charge against Stamps was the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
Armed Heroin Dealer Sentenced to 65 MonthsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Reginald Lawrence, 53, of Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 65 months in federal prison, followed by a three-year term of supervised release, for possessing heroin with intent to distribute and for possessing two firearms in furtherance of that offense. Lawrence pleaded guilty to these charges on November 21, 2019.
On July 22, 2019, a woman called police and said Lawrence had pulled a gun on her and that he pushed her out of his apartment by her neck. When police arrived, Lawrence was observed by an officer carrying a backpack as he was running away from the apartment building. When police subsequently arrested Lawrence, he was not carrying a backpack, but was in possession of a large amount of cash.
Lawrence consented to a search of his apartment, and officers recovered small quantities of heroin. They searched the area where Lawrence had been seen running, and recovered a green backpack. Lawrence's Medicare card was in the backpack, as was as a loaded 9mm pistol. Two additional, loaded firearm magazines were also in the backpack, along with 94 grams of heroin, drug packaging materials, and a scale. In another pocket of the backpack, there was a .380 caliber pistol. Lawrence later admitted he had been selling heroin for six months.
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.
The charges against Lawrence were the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
US Attorney Scott Blader Emphasizes Public Safety in Immigration ProsecutionsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, today joined with Attorney General William Barr to emphasize the importance of apprehending, prosecuting, and removing aliens who are in the United States illegally and have committed criminal acts.
The Western District of Wisconsin echoes the sentiments expressed today by the Attorney General regarding “sanctuary” policies that prevent local law enforcement from sharing information and honoring federal detention requests in the context of immigration crimes. Such policies jeopardize public safety by increasing the risk that undocumented persons may commit further crimes before federal authorities can apprehend them.
Although challenges exist in the Western District of Wisconsin, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has successfully partnered with many local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to prosecute criminal aliens who pose a threat to public safety.
“The U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country have a vital public safety role in locating, arresting, and prosecuting aliens who are illegally in the United States,” said United States Attorney Blader. “My office relies on state and local law enforcement to honor detainers issued by federal law enforcement. Such cooperation prevents illegal aliens in the custody of local jurisdictions from being released into the community.”
“Cooperation amongst federal, state and local agencies is quite simply the most effective way of promoting public safety,” said Robert Guadian, field office director for ICE Chicago, which oversees Wisconsin. “Sanctuary city policies simply don’t work. Instead of promoting public safety, sanctuary policies put the lives of our community’s residents at greater risk.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Wisconsin prosecutes individuals who are found to be in the United States illegally after prior deportations. In almost all cases, those persons have come to the attention of federal law enforcement after being arrested for or convicted of additional state offenses. Some examples, which include the conduct which brought them to the attention of federal authorities, their criminal history, and prior removals, are as follows:
Isaac Gutierrez-Blandon, Nicaraguan citizen, was arrested in May 2019 in Marquette County for obstructing an officer and operating a vehicle after revocation. Marquette County Officers transferred Gutierrez-Blandon to Dane County after discovering multiple Dane County arrest warrants lodged against him for repeat operating while intoxicated (OWI) offenses. In 2007, Gutierrez-Blandon was convicted in Wisconsin for homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle. He had been removed from the United States six times, including twice after felony convictions in the Western District of Wisconsin for illegally reentering the United States after being deported. In September 2019, he was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison after his third felony conviction for illegally reentering the United States.
Rodrigo Miranda-Arias, a Mexican citizen, was convicted in Dane County in April 2018 of sexual assault of a child and incest. Miranda-Arias was deported in 2008 after being convicted in Iowa of misdemeanor assault causing bodily injury. In May 2019, he was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States.
Martin Orozco-Lopez, a Guatemalan citizen, was arrested in Monroe County in February 2017 for first degree sexual assault of a child. He was convicted of a felony domestic violence offense in Monroe County in 2014. He had been removed from the United States three prior times. In July 2019, he was sentenced to six months in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States.
Ascension Pascual-Rodriguez, a Mexican citizen, was arrested in Trempealeau County for stalking, violating a foreign protection order, and bail jumping. He had been removed from the United States twice, including after a felony drug conviction in Missouri. In May 2018, he was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States.
Jose Hernandez-Mendoza, a Mexican citizen, was arrested in Jefferson County in May 2019 for felony bail jumping and an outstanding warrant for delivery of cocaine. He has prior convictions for offenses that include possession of THC, battery (domestic abuse), failure to support a child, and resisting an officer. He was removed from the United States in 2017 and 2018. On January 30, he was sentenced to two years in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States.
Jose Marcos Torres, a citizen of Mexico, was arrested in Trempealeau County for false imprisonment, substantial battery, OWI, and disorderly conduct (domestic abuse). He has been removed from the United States twice. He has pleaded guilty to illegally reentering the United States and will be sentenced in U.S. District Court in Madison on February 12, 2020.
“These stark examples demonstrate the need for all law enforcement agencies to work together to protect public safety and ensure that our immigration laws fairly protect the interest of current citizens, as well as those who seek to become citizens,” said United States Attorney Blader.
US Attorneys Note Substantial Drop in Opioid Prescriptions Following Cooperation Between Law Enforcement & Medical CommunityRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader and Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorneys for the Western and Eastern Districts of Wisconsin, respectively, announced today that their offices have observed a substantial decrease in opioid prescribing among medical providers who received warning letters as part of last year’s opioid initiative.
Last February, the United States Attorneys’ Offices sent letters to more than 180 Wisconsin physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners advising that a review of their prescribing practices showed that they were prescribing opioids at relatively high levels compared to evidence-based prescribing guidelines. The letters warned that these prescribing practices could be contributing to the flow of prescription opioids into illegal markets and could lead to civil and criminal enforcement actions. Thanks partly to this initiative and the consistent efforts by the Wisconsin medical community to stem over-prescribing, Wisconsin has seen substantial progress in the fight against opioid abuse.
Last year’s opioid initiative has also led to meaningful discussions and collaboration amongst members of the law enforcement and medical communities. In April, the United States Attorneys’ Offices coordinated a roundtable discussion in Madison, where representatives from federal and state law enforcement and the Wisconsin medical community discussed collaborative methods for stemming opioid overprescribing among the state’s prescribers. In October, the United States Attorneys’ Offices met with the medical community and other treatment, prevention, harm reduction, and enforcement partners to hold an opioid and methamphetamine summit with the theme of “Making Progress Through Collaboration.” More than 500 people attended the two-day conference, which featured updates on trends from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration as well as the Wisconsin Society of Addiction Medicine. The United States Attorneys have also sent representatives to speak at hospital meetings and medical society gatherings about the dangers of opioid diversion. Through these efforts, the United States Attorneys seek to establish a dialogue with the medical community about safe and legal prescribing practices, and how best to address the state’s opioid epidemic.
In addition to the letters and outreach, the United States Attorneys and their federal and state law enforcement partners have continued to pursue cases in the past year against medical providers who knowingly prescribe narcotics beyond medical necessity. Recently, in the Western District of Wisconsin, Thomas Strick, a Wausau physician, was sentenced to three months in federal prison and one year of supervised release for diverting prescription fentanyl for personal use. In Strick’s case, the government’s investigation revealed that between 2011 and 2018, he had prescribed fentanyl patches to at least six patients without medical need and instructed those patients to return the filled prescriptions to him for personal use. In total, Strick had written 193 fraudulent fentanyl prescriptions and acquired 3,156 patches as part of the scheme. After Strick’s guilty plea, United States Attorney Blader reaffirmed his office’s commitment to holding accountable “medical practitioners who violate their oaths.” According to Blader, “our goal is to work with law enforcement and medical partners to stop addictions before they start by stemming the diversion of prescription opioids to unlawful channels.”
Likewise, in the Eastern District of Wisconsin, Steven Kotsonis, a Menomonee Falls medical doctor, and his office manager, were convicted of unlawfully distributing Oxycodone. Both face up to twenty years in prison at sentencing. After Kotsonis and his office manager pled guilty on December 17, 2019, United States Attorney Krueger said, “this case underscores the Justice Department’s commitment to combatting the opioid crisis.” He emphasized that “far too many Wisconsinites have seen loved ones suffer from an opioid addiction or, worse, an overdose. Because the path to addiction often begins with prescription opioids, we are committed to investigating and prosecuting prescribers like Kotsonis who deal drugs behind the façade of medical practice.”
The active participation of Wisconsin medical systems, medical societies, and medical regulators has been essential to reducing opioid over-prescribing in Wisconsin. Many medical systems have undertaken internal reviews of employee prescribing practices, while medical societies have reinvigorated programs aimed at training providers about safe and lawful opioid prescribing. The Wisconsin medical community is also engaged in renewed information sharing efforts designed to identify and stem pill-seeking behavior before prescriptions are written.
Due to sustained efforts of all partners, total opioid prescriptions in Wisconsin have declined by 30 percent between 2016 and 2019, according to data from the Wisconsin Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. The letters sent by the United States Attorneys appear to have amplified this downward trend. Looking at Medicare prescription data, the total amount of opioids that letter recipients prescribed from July 2017 to June 2019, decreased by about 20 percent in the Western District and about 29 percent in the Eastern District compared the total amount opioids that recipients prescribed from July 2016 to June 2018, before the letters were sent.
In the coming year, the United States Attorneys’ Offices will continue to work with the Wisconsin medical community in support of their efforts to educate providers and monitor opioid prescribing. This will include redoubling efforts to ensure that providers have access to the best information available before prescribing opioids by ensuring that law enforcement is submitting timely and accurate overdose and arrest data to the Wisconsin Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. The United States Attorneys’ Offices will also continue to monitor opioid prescribing data and take further action, as necessary, against prescribers whose practices substantially exceed evidence-based prescribing guidelines.
Melrose Felon Sentenced to 57 Months for Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Victor Williams, 41, Melrose, Wisconsin, was sentenced on Tuesday, January 28, by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 57 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Williams pleaded guilty to this offense on November 13, 2019.
On July 2, 2019, agents executed a search warrant at Williams’ residence outside of Melrose. In the defendant’s room, officers found a 9 mm Ruger handgun and some Remington ammunition. The defendant was later interviewed and said the firearm was his and that he had it for protection. Williams had previously been convicted of multiple drug felonies.
In sentencing the defendant, Judge Conley stated that having a loaded firearm as part of the drug trade created a dangerous situation, and expressed hope that the sentence would be a wake-up call for the defendant.
The charge against Williams was the result of an investigation conducted by the Tomah Police Department, West Central Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Jackson and Monroe County Sheriffs’ Offices, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.
This case was brought as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, 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 crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Madison High School Teacher Charged with Attempting to Produce Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, and Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul announced today the unsealing of an indictment charging David M. Kruchten, 37, Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, with attempting to produce child pornography. The indictment was returned yesterday by a federal grand jury, sitting in Madison, and was unsealed after Kruchten was arrested earlier today.
The indictment charges Kruchten with seven counts of attempting to use a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the conduct. The indictment alleges that he attempted to produce the child pornography in Wisconsin using hidden recording devices on October 27, 2019, and on January 20, 2019.
Kruchten, a teacher at Madison East High School, was arrested this morning at his home. He will make an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Madison today.
“My office is committed to vigorously investigating those who target children and prosecuting them to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Blader.
“This indictment alleges criminal conduct that is an unconscionable betrayal of trust,” said Attorney General Kaul. “Thank you to everyone whose hard work resulted in today’s arrest. We will continue working to ensure that there is full accountability for the crimes alleged in this case.”
If convicted, Kruchten faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum penalty of 30 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, the Minneapolis Police Department, and the Cottage Grove Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman 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.
Grand Jury Returns Two 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.
La Crosse Man Charged with Distributing Methamphetamine
James Vinson, 33, La Crosse, Wisconsin, is charged with distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The indictment alleges that he distributed the methamphetamine on December 5, 2019.
If convicted, Vinson faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum penalty of 40 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the La Crosse County Sheriff’s Office, the West Central Metropolitan Enforcement Group, and the Onalaska and La Crosse Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Anderson is handling the prosecution.
Madison Man Charged with Threatening Federal Probation Officer
Amin W. Williams, 37, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with threatening to assault a federal law enforcement officer. The indictment alleges that on August 27, 2019, Williams threatened a U.S. Probation Officer with the intent to retaliate against the officer, while the officer was engaged in the performance of his official duties.
If convicted, Williams faces a maximum penalty of six years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan is handling the prosecution.
Nekoosa Man Sentenced to 72 Months for Possessing Sawed-Off ShotgunRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jere Wipfli, 48, Nekoosa, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 72 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a sawed-off shotgun. Wipfli pleaded guilty to this charge on August 16, 2019.
On May 24, 2018, Wipfli failed to appear for a jury trial in Adams County, Wisconsin. Law enforcement officers traveled to Wipfli’s Nekoosa home where they arrested him. While at Wipfli's residence, officers observed freshly fired shell casings on the deck and driveway. A condition of Wipfli's bond prohibited him from possessing weapons. Officers obtained a search warrant for Wipfli's residence and seized a sawed-off Remington 12-gauge shotgun, as well as evidence of drug distribution. During an interview with law enforcement, Wipfli admitted to possessing the weapon and knowing it was illegal due to its length.
The charge against Wipfli was the result of an investigation conducted by the Rome Police Department, Juneau County Sheriff’s Office, Necedah Police Department, Nekoosa Police Department, Adams County District Attorney’s Office, Juneau County District Attorney’s Office, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma handled the prosecution.
This case was brought as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, 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 crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Armed Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to 15 YearsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Martell Norris, 37, Chicago, Illinois was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to two concurrent 15-year prison terms for possessing cocaine base (crack cocaine) with intent to distribute and possessing a loaded firearm as a felon.
Norris pled guilty to these offenses on October 31, 2019. On May 16, 2019, he arranged to sell cocaine to one of his customers. Law enforcement learned of the planned sale, which was to occur on East Washington Avenue in Madison, and moved in to arrest Norris. Norris fled in a vehicle, triggering a high-speed chase, during which he nearly hit a police officer and caused a nearby bicyclist to crash. Shortly thereafter, Norris ran into an apartment building on South Blount Street where he was arrested.
At the South Blount Street location, Norris discarded a backpack he had been wearing down a trash chute that emptied in a ground level dumpster. In the dumpster, officers found Norris’s backpack which contained 125 grams of powder cocaine, 75 grams of crack cocaine, a digital scale, and a loaded, semiautomatic pistol.
While Norris was subject to a 15-year minimum mandatory based on his firearm possession after having been convicted of three violent felonies, Judge Peterson indicated that he would have provided Norris the same sentence even if no minimum mandatory applied. The facts at sentencing showed that Norris was a kilogram-level cocaine dealer and possessed additional high powered firearms. Judge Peterson explained that a lengthy prison term was necessary to protect the public from Norris because he used firearms in his drug dealing business and because, in selling large quantities of cocaine, he exploited addicts and drove them into poverty.
The charges against Norris were the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Dane County Narcotics Task Force, and Mauston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea handled this case.
This case was brought as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, 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 crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.