Western District of Wisconsin
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
La Crosse Man Sentenced on Crack Cocaine ChargeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Earl Hill, 40, La Crosse, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty and was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 42 months in federal prison for possessing crack cocaine with the intent to distribute.
In October 2018, a concerned neighbor called the La Crosse Police Department to report a lot of short-term vehicle and pedestrian traffic at Hill’s home. Ultimately a search of Hill’s residence revealed over 22 grams of crack cocaine and packaging materials consistent with drug distribution and he was arrested.
Hill’s arrest came less than three months after being released from a lengthy prison sentence in Illinois. He has eight prior criminal convictions in Illinois, including convictions for drug conspiracy, domestic battery, possessing weapons, and reckless conduct. At the time of his arrest, Hill was also on supervision in Wisconsin for delivering cocaine.
The charge against Hill was the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse Police Department. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper.
Armed Robber Sentenced to 7 YearsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Lamontay D. Rivera, 21, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to seven years in federal prison for robbing a Madison restaurant while armed with a handgun. Rivera pleaded guilty to this charge on March 12, 2019.
Rivera’s co-defendant, Johnell Britt, was also sentenced to seven years in federal prison, because he also possessed a handgun during the robbery. Britt was sentenced by Judge Conley on June 4.
Rivera and Britt robbed a Subway restaurant on Cottage Grove Road in Madison on August 20, 2018. They were identified as the armed robbers from surveillance cameras, physical evidence subsequently seized from their vehicle, and DNA evidence.
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 Rivera and Britt 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.
Texas Man Sentenced to 11 Years for Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Gregory Smith, 51, Houston, Texas, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 11 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Smith pleaded guilty to this charge on April 17, 2019.
The investigation revealed that Smith was mailing packages containing cocaine from Houston to co-defendant Joseph Harper in Madison. In total, postal records from November 2017 to November 2018 showed 32 packages mailed from Smith to addresses in Wisconsin or Iowa associated with Harper. Based on witness statements and multiple cocaine seizures in the case, agents learned that each of the packages contained between a half kilogram and one kilogram of cocaine.
In addition, postal records from November 2017 to November 2018 showed that 48 packages were mailed from the Madison area by Harper or his associates to addresses associated with the Smith in Houston. Federal agents executed search warrants on five of these packages and identified over $85,000 in cash. Based on communications between Smith and Harper, along with other investigative information, agents learned that each of the 48 packages sent to the Smith contained money to pay for cocaine.
In imposing the sentence, Judge Conley noted that Smith played a critical role in the large-scale interstate conspiracy which involved at least 16 kilograms of cocaine. Judge Conley also noted that Smith has a lengthy criminal history including four prior felony drug trafficking convictions.
A total of 12 individuals have been charged for participating in this cocaine distribution scheme. In addition to Smith, eight other defendants have pleaded guilty. Smith is the first to be sentenced.
The charge against Smith is the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation. The investigation was conducted and funded by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a multi-agency task force that coordinates long-term narcotics trafficking investigations. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner.
Richland Center Man Sentenced to 90 Months for Methamphetamine CrimeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Joshua Clarke, 31, Richland Center, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 90 months in federal prison, followed by a three-year term of supervised release, for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Clarke pleaded guilty to this charge on April 26, 2019.
On November 11, 2018, an officer from the Richland Center Police Department stopped a car for a traffic violation. While talking with the passenger, who officers subsequently identified as Clarke, they observed behavior indicative of someone high on methamphetamine. Officers arrested Clarke on an outstanding warrant. During a subsequent search, officers found 35 grams of methamphetamine on Clarke. Testing by the Drug Enforcement Administration showed the methamphetamine was 100% pure.
During sentencing, Judge Conley highlighted Clarke’s extensive criminal history, as well as the methamphetamine’s purity level. Judge Conley noted that Clarke saw the tremendous effect of the drug as a methamphetamine user, but still decided to sell it to members of the community.
The charge against Clarke was the result of an investigation conducted by the Richland Center Police Department, Richland County Sheriff’s Department, Richland County District Attorney’s Office, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma.
Madison Felon Sentenced for Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Billy Shell, Jr., 21, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District William M. Conley to 24 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. This prison term will be followed by three years of supervised release. Shell pleaded guilty to this offense on April 16, 2019.
On October 5, 2018, Madison police officers approached a car that was parked illegally. Shell was one of the people in the car. The owner of the car consented to a search, which revealed a 9 mm handgun under a seat in the area where Shell had been sitting. The investigation revealed that the handgun was stolen, and was equipped with a fully loaded extended magazine.
The charge against Shell was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Pfluger.
Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 15 YearsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Royal Powell, 36, Janesville, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William Conley to a mandatory minimum 15 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Powell pleaded guilty to this charge on March 20, 2019. His prison sentence will be followed by four years of supervised release.
On August 17, 2018, Powell exited a BP gas station in Janesville and fired a gun at a group of people standing a short distance away. In response to the gunfire, someone shot back at Powell and the bullet went into the gas station and nearly struck a woman and her small children standing inside. Powell fled the scene but police officers identified him using surveillance video from the gas station. Powell was arrested in Janesville a few weeks later and officers found the firearm used in the shooting hidden in his apartment.
Powell is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses in Rock County, Wisconsin, and Cook County, Illinois, including arson, residential burglary, and substantial battery. As a result of these violent convictions, Powell is classified as an armed career criminal and is subject to the mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years. Furthermore, Powell was on Wisconsin state supervision for three separate felony convictions at the time of the shooting.
In sentencing Powell, Judge Conley took into account his lengthy criminal history, which included not only violent crimes but also drug offenses. Judge Conley stated that Powell’s decision to shoot the firearm while at the BP station needlessly endangered innocent lives.
The charge against Powell 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 violent crime.
The charge against Powell was a result of an investigation conducted by the Janesville Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Wegner and Diane Schlipper.
Wisconsin Dentist Indicted for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Madison, Wisconsin, indicted a La Crosse, Wisconsin, dentist yesterday 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 the indictment, Frederick G. Kriemelmeyer operated a dental practice in La Crosse, Wisconsin. In 2007, Kriemelmeyer was ordered by the United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin to pay $135,337 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for unpaid individual income taxes. By December 2012, the IRS had assessed Kriemelmeyer more than $450,000 in taxes, interest and penalties. Beginning in approximately 2011, Kriemelmeyer allegedly took a number of actions to evade payment of this assessment. The indictment also charges that for the years 2013 through 2015 Kriemelmeyer failed to file tax returns and attempted to evade the taxes due on income from his dental practice. Kriemelmeyer allegedly sought to conceal his income from the IRS, by among other things, directing his patients to pay in cash or with personal checks that left the payee line blank and by paying his business and personal expenses with cash and third-party checks.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, Kriemelmeyer faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for each of the tax evasion counts.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Blader commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman and Trial Attorney Eric C. Schmale of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
La Crosse Dentist Indicted for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - A federal grand jury in Madison, Wisconsin, indicted a La Crosse, Wisconsin dentist yesterday 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 the indictment, 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 individual income taxes. By December 2012, the IRS had assessed Kriemelmeyer more than $450,000 in taxes, interest and penalties. Beginning in approximately 2011, Kriemelmeyer allegedly took a number of actions to evade payment of this assessment. The indictment also charges that for the years 2013 through 2015 Kriemelmeyer failed to file tax returns and attempted to evade the taxes due on income from his dental practice. Kriemelmeyer allegedly sought to conceal his income from the IRS, by among other things, directing his patients to pay in cash or with personal checks that left the payee line blank and by paying his business and personal expenses with cash and third-party checks.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, Kriemelmeyer faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for each of the tax evasion counts.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Blader commended special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman and Trial Attorney Eric C. Schmale of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website .
Grand Jury Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. -- A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments yesterday. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
New York Woman Charged with Conspiracy & Causing the Introduction of Misbranded Drugs into Interstate Commerce
Ursula Wing, 41, New York City, is charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States and causing the introduction of misbranded drugs into interstate commerce. The indictment alleges that Wing illegally smuggled into the United States misbranded prescription drugs from India, which were not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for distribution in the United States, and that she sold these misbranded prescription drugs to customers in the United States and around the world.
The indictment alleges that the prescription drugs sold by Wing were misbranded in that they were dispensed without a valid prescription from a practitioner licensed by law to administer such drugs, and that the labeling of the drugs lacked adequate directions for use by a lay person. The indictment alleges that Wing did not possess a valid wholesale drug distribution license, a valid pharmacy license, or a license to prescribe prescription drugs.
The indictment further alleges that Wing attempted to disguise the nature of her sale of prescription drugs by 1) creating a fake company called “Fatima’s Bead Basket,” which she listed as the shipper on the envelope going to the customer; 2) by inserting a necklace or other item of jewelry in the shipping envelope to serve as the cover piece of merchandise being mailed to the customer; 3) by packaging the misbranded drugs in a smaller packet that was in a hidden panel and taped to the inside of the shipping envelope; 4) by disguising the nature of the item being purchased by listing on the invoice alternate jewelry product names, each of which had a code to indicate the actual item being ordered; 5) by mailing these misbranded drugs from the United States to customers around the world, and falsely characterizing the exports on U.S. Customs forms as jewelry; and 6) by creating a fake online jewelry business for use as a cover for selling the misbranded drugs, allowing her clients to pay for the misbranded drugs using their credit cards, with the sales showing up on the merchant account as jewelry.
The indictment alleges that from June 2016 through June 2018, Wing conspired to defraud the United States by impeding lawful functions of federal law enforcement and regulatory agencies, and that from January 2018 through February 2018, Wing caused the introduction of unapproved, misbranded prescription drugs mifepristone and misoprostol into interstate commerce by sending the drugs from the state of New York to Wisconsin.
If convicted, Wing faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison on the conspiracy charge, and three years on the felony charge of causing the introduction of misbranded drugs into interstate commerce. The charges against Wing are the result of an investigation by the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations, and IRS Criminal Investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Graber.
Janesville Man Charged with Sex Trafficking of Minor
Corey Hereford, 47, Janesville, Wisconsin, is charged with recruiting an individual who was a minor and would be caused to engage in a commercial sex act. The indictment also charges him with committing this felony offense involving a minor while being required to register as a sex offender.
If convicted, Hereford faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on the sex trafficking of a minor charge, and a mandatory consecutive 10 year sentence on the charge of committing a felony offense involving a minor while being required to register as a sex offender.
The charges against Hereford are the result of an investigation by the Janesville Police Department and the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Pfluger.
Two Dane County Men Charged with Drug Crimes Involving Heroin, Fentanyl & Cocaine
Cortez Jackson, 39, Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, and Van Williamson, 42, Madison, Wisconsin, are charged with conspiring to distribute a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, and cocaine. The indictment alleges that the amount of the mixture of heroin and fentanyl involved in the conspiracy that was attributable to the defendants’ conduct is 40 grams or more, and that the conspiracy operated from February 2019 to June 6, 2019.
The indictment also charges Jackson with eight counts of distributing a mixture of heroin and fentanyl, with three of the counts also alleging the distribution of cocaine. The indictment further alleges that one of the counts involved the distribution of 40 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl. The indictment charges Williamson with one count of distributing heroin and fentanyl, as well as cocaine, and one count of distributing cocaine.
If convicted, Jackson and Williamson face a mandatory minimum five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the charges alleging 40 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl. Each of the distribution charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years.
The charges against Jackson and Williamson are the result of an investigation by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Sun Prairie Police Department. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Reinhard.
La Crosse Man Charged with Distributing Methamphetamine
James A. Conner III, 43, La Crosse, Wisconsin, is charged with two counts of distributing methamphetamine, and one count of possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he distributed methamphetamine in December 2018 and January 2019, and that he possessed the methamphetamine on April 4, 2019.
If convicted, Conner faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the count alleging the possession of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 20 years on each distribution charge. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the La Crosse Police Department and Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick Elgersma.
La Crosse Man Charged with Drug Crimes Involving 500 Grams of Methamphetamine
Andrew R. Henke, 35, La Crosse, Wisconsin, is charged with distributing methamphetamine, and possessing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he distributed and possessed methamphetamine on March 26, 2019.
If convicted, Henke faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison on the charge alleging 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 20 years on the distribution charge. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the La Crosse Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan.
Minnesota Man Charged with Possessing Methamphetamine With Intent to Distribute
William Huff, 54, South St. Paul, Minnesota, is charged with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he possessed methamphetamine on April 20, 2019.
If convicted, Huff 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 Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation and Dunn County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner.
Stevens Point Man Charged with Producing and Possessing Child Pornography
Nicholas Kvatek, 40, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, is charged with two counts of using a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. The indictment alleges that he produced the child pornography in January 2019.
The indictment further charges Kvatek with possessing child pornography. The indictment alleges that on April 2, 2019, he possessed a cell phone containing child pornography, and that at least one of the depictions involved a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.
If convicted, Kvatek faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the production charges, and a maximum of 20 years on the possession charge. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Stevens Point Police Department and Portage County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.
Chicago Felon Sentenced to 42 Months for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Aaron T. Washington, 25, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 42 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Washington pleaded guilty to the charge on April 15, 2019.
On December 31, 2018, at 6:00 pm, on December 31, 2018, Washington attempted to rob a customer outside of a Kwik Trip on Madison’s east side. The intended victim refused to give Washington money, and the victim went back into the Kwik Trip. The Madison Police Department was called and they had Kwik Trip play their interior videos for them. Close-up photographs of the robber showed the distinct tattoos on Washington’s face.
Madison police officers traced footprints in the snow to a nearby first-floor apartment, where they located Washington. A subsequent search of the apartment led to the recovery of a loaded Taurus handgun in the toilet tank. The Taurus matched the description given by the attempted robbery victim. Washington was transported to the North District Police Station, where he temporarily escaped from the holding cell.
Washington’s prior felony conviction was for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon/occupied vehicle, in Cook County, Illinois in 2013.
Under the federal sentencing guidelines, Washington’s range was 27 to 33 months. The United States asked for a higher sentence, considering the aggravating facts of the offense conduct. Judge Peterson agreed, and decided that 42 months was an appropriate sentence.
This 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 and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
The charge against Washington was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
California Man Sentenced to 42 Months for Distributing Methamphetamine in Tomah AreaRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Lucas Rodriguez, 29, Hemet, California, pleaded guilty and was sentenced on June 20, 2019, by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 42 months in prison for distributing methamphetamine.
Rodriguez mailed two packages of methamphetamine from California to Tomah, Wisconsin. Law enforcement agents seized both packages, which contained almost 100% pure methamphetamine. The amount of methamphetamine attributable to Rodriguez was approximately 653 grams, which Judge Conley described as a conservative estimate since the defendant likely had been selling methamphetamine for much longer.
The charge against Rodriguez was the result of an investigation conducted by the Tomah Police Department, Monroe County Joint Investigative Task Force, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper.
Fugitive Returned to U.S. to Face Federal & State ChargesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that William Guy, 51, formerly of Madison, Wisconsin, appeared in federal court this morning, following his extradition from Austria.
Guy was arrested in Austria in April 2018 on federal charges of fraudulently obtaining a passport, and on numerous state charges. At the time of his arrest, he had been a fugitive for more than seven years, and was on the U.S. State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service’s most wanted list. Guy fought extradition from Austria for almost a year, before finally being removed from the country this week. Magistrate Judge Stephen Crocker ordered Guy detained based on his flight risk, and set Guy’s federal trial date for October 28, 2019.
In addition to the federal charges, Guy faces charges of possessing child pornography, stalking resulting in bodily harm, false imprisonment, identity theft, victim intimidation, second degree sexual assault, kidnapping, bail jumping, and numerous other charges in Dane County Circuit Court.
You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The charges against Guy are the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Madison Police Department. The prosecution of the federal case has been assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman. The prosecution of the state charges has been assigned to Assistant District Attorney Matthew Moeser.
Two La Crosse County Men Sentenced for Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jesse Turnmire, 30, Bangor, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson, to five years in federal prison, for possessing firearms as a convicted felon. Turnmire pleaded guilty to this charge on March 15, 2019. His prison term will be followed by a three-year period of supervised release.
On December 15, 2018, residents at an apartment complex in La Crosse reported shots-fired. Officers recovered four Remington 9mm shell casings at the scene. Through interviews, officers developed Turnmire as a suspect. Turnmire was subsequently arrested after fleeing from a vehicle, and two firearms were recovered from the vehicle. One had been reported stolen, and Turnmire had a photo of the firearm on his phone. The other firearm was examined by the State Crime Lab, and the lab confirmed it had been used in the shooting. Turnmire’s prior felony convictions are: 2013 Bail Jumping; 2014 Possession of Methamphetamine; 2014 Theft of Automobile; 2015 Possession of Methamphetamine; and 2016 Possession of Narcotic Drug.
In another case, Emmanuel Hunt, 24, La Crosse, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to four years in federal prison for also possessing firearms as a convicted felon. Hunt pleaded guilty to this charge on February 21, 2019. His prison term will also be followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
On November 22, 2018, Hunt was stopped for speeding and he was arrested on an outstanding warrant. A search of the vehicle incident to arrest led to the recovery of a loaded handgun under the driver's seat.
On December 5, 2018, Hunt was stopped by the La Crosse County Sheriff's Department after he was observed driving erratically. When deputies approached the car, they smelled marijuana and observed marijuana in the vehicle. A search incident to arrest led to the recovery of a loaded, stolen handgun in Hunt’s waistband. A search of the vehicle revealed a second loaded, stolen handgun under the passenger seat. Hunt’s prior felony convictions are: Manufacture/Deliver Cannabis (2014, Cook County, Illinois) and Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon (2016, Cook County, Illinois).
These cases have 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 Turnmire and Hunt were the result of investigations conducted by the La Crosse Police Department, the La Crosse County Sheriff’s Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of these cases have been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
Felon Sentenced to 5 Years for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Kevin F. Thomas, 31, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley, to five years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Thomas pleaded guilty to these charges on February 1, 2019. His prison term will be followed by a three-year period of supervised release.
On March 21, 2018, there were two shootings on the west side of Madison. Fifteen shell casings were recovered at the scenes, including 9mm and .40 caliber casings. Shortly after the shootings, a female acquaintance of Thomas’ was arrested in possession of a 9mm firearm and a .40 caliber firearm. Further investigation revealed that she had been in a vehicle with Thomas at the time of the shootings, as was a juvenile male. Thomas was subsequently identified on a video possessing the two firearms on March 21, 2018.
Thomas has prior felony convictions for second degree murder/provocation (2005, Cook County, Illinois) and for aggravated battery/public place (2016, Knox County, Illinois). He also has a tattoo on his arm that states, “live by the gun, die by the bullet.”
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 Thomas were the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison 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.
Armed Drug Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Louis S. Boatner, 44, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 10 years in federal prison, followed by a four-year term of supervised release, for possessing over a kilogram of cocaine with intent to distribute, and possessing six loaded handguns in furtherance of that drug trafficking offense. Boatner pleaded guilty to these charges on March 5, 2019.
Between August and October, an informant working with the Dane County Narcotics Task Force purchased cocaine from Boatner on three occasions. Officers conducted surveillance during the purchases, and subsequently obtained a search warrant for a storage unit that Boatner rented. The warrant was executed on October 9, 2018 and officers recovered approximately 1,300 grams of cocaine, six fully-loaded handguns, and $61,000 in the unit.
The 10-year sentence was required under federal law, because each count of conviction carried mandatory minimum sentences of five years.
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 charge against Boatner was the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force 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.
Richland Center Man Sentenced for Threatening CommunicationsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Travis Martin, 34, Richland Center, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James Peterson to 14 days in jail, in addition to the nearly 27 months Martin has already served, for making threatening communications. This term of imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release. Martin pleaded guilty to this charge on April 3, 2019.
On November 16, 2017, Martin left a voice mail threatening to shoot a member of the Alabama National Guard. He made eight additional calls threatening violence to others.
Judge Peterson found that the seriousness of the crime warranted a significant sentence. He also wanted to send a strong message to the defendant that it is OK to have political views, but that it is not OK to threaten to harm those with whom he disagrees.
The charge against Martin was the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Richland Center Police Department, and the Pawnee County (Kansas) Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.
Merrill Man Charged with Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced today the unsealing of an indictment charging Douglas P. Bannister, 37, Merrill, Wisconsin, with being a felon in possession of a firearm and illegally possessing a silencer.
The sealed indictment was returned yesterday by a federal grand jury and an arrest warrant was issued for Bannister. He was arrested in Merrill yesterday afternoon. He made an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Madison today, and was ordered to remain in custody pending a detention hearing, which has not been scheduled.
The indictment alleges that on December 11, 2018, Bannister, knowing he had previously been convicted of a felony, possessed an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 lower receiver. The receiver is the part of a firearm which provides housing for internal components. For the purposes of federal law, the receiver is legally the firearm. The indictment also charges that on December 11, 2018, Bannister possessed a silencer not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
If convicted, Bannister faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on each charge. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey C. Stephan.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach involves collaboration by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent and deter gun violence.
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 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.
These indictments 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.
Chippewa County Man Charged with Drug & Gun Crimes
Joshua Stein, 29, Cornell, Wisconsin, is charged with three counts of distributing methamphetamine, with one count alleging distribution of 50 grams or more; one count of possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute; and with possessing two firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The indictment alleges that he distributed methamphetamine in February 2019, and that on April 8, 2019, he possessed two handguns and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.
If convicted, Stein faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the two counts alleging 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and a maximum of 20 years on the other two drug charges. The charge alleging the possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years, and federal law requires that any penalty imposed for this charge be served consecutive to any sentence imposed on the other charges.
The charges against Stein are the result of an investigation by the West Central Drug Task Force and the Cornell Police Department. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Anderson.
Madison Man Charged with Drug & Gun Crimes
Martell Norris, 37, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with one count of possessing 28 grams or more of crack cocaine with intent to distribute, one count of possessing cocaine with intent to distribute, possessing a loaded firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that he possessed the crack cocaine, cocaine, and a loaded semi-automatic handgun on May 16, 2019.
If convicted, Norris faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the count alleging 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, and a maximum of 20 years on the other drug charge. The charge alleging the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years, and federal law requires that that any penalty imposed for this charge be served consecutive to any sentence imposed on the other charges. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm has a maximum penalty of 10 years.
The charges against Norris are the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by First Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea.
Madison Man Charged with Gun Crimes and Drug Crime Involving Heroin & Crack Cocaine
Demarious Gray, 28, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and with possessing heroin and crack cocaine with the intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that on October 9, 2017, he possessed a loaded .40 caliber handgun, heroin, and crack cocaine.
If convicted, Gray faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on the felon in possession of a firearm charge, 20 years on the drug charge, and a mandatory minimum penalty of five years on the charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Federal law requires that that any penalty imposed for the charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime be served consecutive to any sentence imposed on the other charges.
The charges against Gray are the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey C. Stephan.
Madison Man Charged with Armed Robbery of Oregon Gas Station
Willie Champ, 18, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with the armed robbery of a business in Oregon, Wisconsin. The indictment alleges that on May 24, 2019, he robbed the Kwik Trip gas station on Janesville Street in Oregon, and that during the robbery he brandished a weapon at an employee and demanded money.
If convicted, Champ faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Oregon, Fitchburg and Madison Police Departments, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey C. Stephan.
Ashland Man Charged with Being a Felon in Possession of Firearm & Ammunition
Jeremy W. Strobel, 41, Ashland, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The indictment alleges that on April 20, 2019, he possessed a .38 caliber revolver and ammunition.
If convicted, Strobel faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Ashland Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey C. Stephan.
Beloit Man Charged With Gun Crime
Randell Thomas, 39, Beloit, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on May 16, 2019, he possessed a loaded 9 mm pistol.
If convicted, Thomas faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Beloit Police Department. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
Armed Robber Sentenced to 7 YearsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Johnell L. Britt, 20, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to seven years in federal prison, for robbing a Subway restaurant in Madison while armed with a handgun. Britt pleaded guilty to this charge on March 12, 2019, and his co-defendant, Lamontay Rivera, 21, also of Madison, pleaded guilty on March 15, 2019.
Britt and Rivera committed the robbery on August 20, 2018. They were identified as the armed robbers from surveillance cameras, physical evidence subsequently seized from their vehicle, and DNA evidence. Britt has a prior conviction for attempted armed robbery where an individual was shot multiple times.
Rivera does not have a sentencing date scheduled.
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 Britt and Rivera 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.
Man Sentenced for Stealing Food Benefits CardsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Daniel Raudonis, 33, Madison, Wisconsin was sentenced Wednesday by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to three months confinement at a community correctional facility for theft of government funds. Daniel Raudonis pleaded guilty to these charges on April 3, 2019.
Daniel Raudonis and his wife Lindsey Raudonis were involved in a scheme to steal and use Quest cards that were in the possession of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (WDHS). Quest cards are food benefits cards funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
From October 2014 to November 2014, Daniel Raudonis used his status as a WDHS employee to steal the identities of homeless individuals and activate their Quest cards. Once activated, Daniel Raudonis provided the cards to Lindsey Raudonis who used them to purchase $2,972.34 worth of groceries at four different locations in Madison. On April 10, 2019, Lindsey Raudonis received a sentence of time served (44 days in jail) for her role in the scheme.
During sentencing, Judge Peterson highlighted that Daniel Raudonis abused his position of trust at WDHS. Judge Peterson specifically noted that Daniel Raudonis insulted law-abiding government employees and undermined the public’s trust in government programs.
The charges against Daniel and Lindsey Raudonis were the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Department of Human Services, Wisconsin Capitol Police, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick M. Elgersma.
Man Sentenced for Lying in Bankruptcy ProceedingRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Daniel Doyle, 56, Sanford, South Carolina, formerly of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to one year of probation for fraudulently making false statements under oath in a bankruptcy proceeding. Daniel Doyle pleaded guilty to this felony charge on March 6, 2019.
In March 2014, Doyle filed a bankruptcy petition and schedules that omitted the facts that Doyle had a wife, that she was dying of cancer, and that he was the beneficiary of her life insurance policy worth approximately $250,000. At the creditors meeting, Doyle continued the concealment and lied under oath, indicating that he was not going to receive a life insurance payment after his wife’s death.
After Doyle’s debts were discharged, he filed a claim on the life insurance policy and collected over $250,000. A few months later, the U.S. Trustee received an anonymous call indicating that Doyle received $200,000 in insurance proceeds after his wife’s death, and that he waited until the bankruptcy case had concluded to file a claim. The U.S. Trustee filed a motion to reopen the bankruptcy proceedings, and ultimately, Doyle admitted he lied and agreed to a voluntary dismissal.
In sentencing Doyle, Judge Peterson indicated his hope that other debtors would be deterred by knowing that there are criminal consequences if you try and defraud the bankruptcy court.
The charge against Daniel Doyle was the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS Criminal Investigation, with the assistance of the Office of the U.S. Trustee. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura A. Przybylinski Finn.
Madison Man Sentenced to 6 Years for Possessing 4 Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Edward Bartlett, 30, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to six years in federal prison for possessing four kilograms of cocaine with the intent to distribute. Bartlett pleaded guilty to this charge on March 7, 2019, and agreed to forfeit his rights to a 2014 Maserati.
On April 17, 2018, Madison police officers observed Bartlett driving a Maserati near an apartment complex in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. Based on their investigation, the Madison police officers believed that the Maserati likely contained a large amount of cocaine. As they approached the Maserati, Bartlett attempted to drive out of a parking lot but crashed into a Madison police car with two officers inside. Bartlett then fled on foot but was arrested after a brief chase. The cocaine was found in the Maserati.
In imposing the sentence, Judge Conley noted that Bartlett was part of a large-scale drug trafficking ring and recently had purchased the Maserati using cash. Judge Conley also noted that Bartlett had a prior felony conviction for cocaine trafficking.
The charge against Bartlett is the result of an investigation by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution of this case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron D. Wegner.
Lake Delton Woman Pleads Guilty to Public Corruption Crime Involving $358,000 EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Stephanie Czuprynko, 54, Lake Delton, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty today to a public corruption charge in U.S. District Court in Madison, Wisconsin.
Czuprynko admitted that while acting as the bookkeeper for the Lake Delton Fire Department Commission and the Dells-Delton Emergency Medical Services Commission, she embezzled monies from the checking accounts of these two commissions. The amount of the embezzlement, which occurred between 2016 and November 2018, is over $358,000.
The federal investigation into this matter began in November 2018 when the Federal Bureau of Investigation received a referral from the Lake Delton Police Department after they had noted irregularities in the checking accounts of the two commissions. When confronted with the irregularities, Czuprynko admitted the embezzlement, and provided a spreadsheet detailing the embezzlements by date and amount. Czuprynko told law enforcement she stole the money because she had a gambling problem. After obtaining a search warrant for her office, FBI agents found gambling records from Ho-Chunk casino, as well as two unauthorized signature stamps, which she used to sign the embezzlement checks.
“My office is committed to prosecuting any public official who abuses their position for personal enrichment,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “This type of case represents the worst in deception and fraud because it involves a betrayal of the public trust.”
"Public corruption remains a top priority for the FBI," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert E. Hughes. “We investigate embezzlement violations from major cities to rural communities. Those who misuse their position and violate the public's trust for personal gain will be brought to face justice."
U.S. District Judge William M. Conley scheduled sentencing for August 8, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. Czuprynko faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against her is the result of an investigation by the FBI and Lake Delton Police Department. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Graber.
Baraboo Man Sentenced to 7 Years for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Matthew J. Soban, 27, Baraboo, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to seven years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of two handguns. Soban pleaded guilty to this charge on March 12, 2019.
On July 30, 2018, Baraboo police arrested Soban on an outstanding warrant. When officers searched him incident to that arrest, they found a loaded .40 caliber pistol in a holster on his waist, and a .32 caliber derringer in his backpack. Soban has two prior felony convictions and was therefore prohibited from possessing firearms.
At sentencing, Judge Conley stated that Soban’s life had become a “whirlwind of drugs and legal trouble” despite being through substance abuse treatment in the state system. Judge Conley also noted that at the time of his arrest, Soban was absconding from state supervision, was attempting to move to a different residence to remain on the run, and had spent six of the past 10 years in prison for violent and drug trafficking felonies.
The charge against Soban was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Baraboo Police Department, with the cooperation of the Sauk County District Attorney’s Office. The case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan.
This 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 and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Texas Man Convicted of Traveling to Wisconsin to Engage in Illegal Sexual ConductRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – After a one-day court trial, Robert Hosler, 28, Austin, Texas, was found guilty today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson of two counts involving interstate communications and travel to engage in illegal sexual activity. The verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader for the Western District of Wisconsin. Hosler waived his right to a trial by jury.
Hosler pleaded guilty today to a third charge, possessing child pornography. Hosler admitted that at the time of his arrest in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, on September 6, 2018, he possessed a cell phone containing visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. At least one of the depictions involved a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.
The evidence presented at trial established that in August 2018, Hosler responded to an advertisement posted on the Internet, which offered a 12-year-old child for sexual purposes. In response to the ad, he flew from Texas to Minneapolis, rented a car and travelled to a prearranged meeting location in Eau Claire, where he was arrested by law enforcement officers. The advertisement was posted by an undercover law enforcement officer.
“The defendant traveled to Wisconsin with the intent to sexually assault a child,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “My office will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners at the local, state, and federal level to bring those who seek to sexually exploit children to justice.”
Hosler’s sentencing has not been scheduled. He faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison.
The charges against Hosler are the result of an investigation by the Eau Claire Police Department, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security, Central Texas Violent Crimes Task Force, Wisconsin State Patrol, and West Central Drug Task Force. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth Altman and Diane Schlipper.
Madison Man Sentenced to 54 Months for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that David A. Kelly, 33, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William Conley to 54 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Kelly pleaded guilty to the charge on March 14, 2019.
On July 16, 2018, while on the west side of Madison, Kelly retrieved a firearm from his vehicle and brandished it at a group of people, threatening to kill them. Kelly left the scene before police officers arrived. A warrant was issued for his arrest, and a search of his home revealed a loaded .40 caliber pistol. Kelly’s fingerprints were found on the firearm.
Kelly had been convicted in Dane County Circuit Court four days prior to the July 16 incident for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Kelly also has three prior felony drug convictions.
Judge Conley rejected Kelly’s request for a 30-month sentence, citing the defendant’s history of violence and lack of remorse.
This 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 and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
The charge against Kelly was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department, Wisconsin Department of Corrections, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
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.
Superior Resident Charged with Drug & Gun Crimes
Brian Kainu, 36, Superior, Wisconsin, is charged with two counts of distributing methamphetamine, one count of possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The indictment alleges that Kainu distributed methamphetamine on March 27 and April 2, 2019, and that on April 2, he possessed 50 grams or more of the drug with the intent to distribute. The fourth count of the indictment alleges that he possessed a .22 caliber revolver on April 2.
If convicted, Kainu faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the count alleging 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, a maximum of 20 years on each of the distribution counts, and 10 years on the felon in possession of a firearm count.
The charges against Kainu are the result of an investigation by the Superior Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Northwest Area Crime Unit, Duluth Police Department, and the Lake Superior Drug & Violent Crime Task Force. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick Elgersma.
Madison Man Charged with Distributing Heroin and Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Sedale Lacey-Robinson, 27, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with five counts of distributing heroin and with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on five occasions in March and April 2019, he distributed heroin, and that on April 11, 2019, he possessed a loaded .44 caliber revolver.
If convicted, Lacey-Robinson faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each heroin distribution count and 10 years on the felon in possession of a firearm count. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by Dane County Narcotics Task Force and Madison Police Department. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
Maryland Man Charged with Gun Crime
John K. Stroman, 31, Capitol Heights, Maryland, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on April 18, 2019, he possessed a loaded 9mm pistol.
If convicted, Stroman faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin State Patrol; U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Dane County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
The Kainu, Robinson, and Stroman indictments have been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Pierce County Man Charged with Producing, Distributing & Possessing Child Pornography
Eric Kurrelmeyer, 31, Maiden Rock, Wisconsin, is charged with two counts of producing child pornography, one count of distributing child pornography, and one count of possessing child pornography.
The indictment alleges that on November 10, 2018, Kurrelmeyer twice used a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. The indictment alleges that he used a cellular phone to produce videos of the minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
The indictment further alleges that on December 28, 2018, Kurrelmeyer used a private Kik chat to distribute one of the videos he produced on November 10. In the fourth count, the indictment alleges that on December 28, he possessed a cellular phone containing visual depictions of child pornography, and that at least one of the depictions involved a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.
If convicted, Kurrelmeyer faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in federal prison on the production counts, a mandatory minimum of five years and a maximum of 20 years on the distribution count, and a maximum of 20 years on the possession count. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pierce County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick Elgersma.
Columbia County Man Sentenced to Year in Prison for Selling Firearms Without LicenseRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Eugene Ripp, 66, Arlington, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William Conley to one year and one day in federal prison for dealing in firearms without a license. This term of imprisonment will be followed by two years of supervised release. Ripp pleaded guilty to this charge on February 20, 2019.
In July 2015, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) presented Ripp with a Cease and Desist Letter, informing him that he could be prosecuted if he continued to engage in the business of selling firearms without a Federal Firearms License (FFL). At the time, the ATF had citizen complaints that Ripp was dealing in firearms, including at gun shows. Before issuing the Cease and Desist Letter, undercover contacts were made at gun shows to confirm that Ripp was selling firearms without a license. After confirming this, the ATF warned Ripp to stop dealing in firearms without a license. In a July 14, 2015 interview with ATF agents, Ripp was warned verbally and in writing of the potential for prosecution if he continued to engage in the business of selling firearms without a license.
Shortly after receiving the Cease and Desist Letter, Ripp continued to deal in firearms at gun shows. An undercover agent engaged Ripp in communications about purchasing firearms, even indicating that some of the firearms that the undercover agent was purchasing were intended for other unnamed individuals. Because Ripp did not have an FFL, he did not go through the background check process on prospective customers.
Ripp was heard on recorded undercover sales of firearms expressing concern that the firearms could get traced back to him if the firearms fell into the wrong hands. Ripp can be heard expressing concern that the ATF might be watching him, and instructing the undercover agent to not tell anyone that the firearms came from him. Several firearms were sold to the undercover agent in transactions occurring inside
Ripp’s vehicle in the parking lots of businesses in DeForest and Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, all without background checks. These sales occurred after Ripp had received the Cease and Desist Letter, and after Ripp had been made aware that some of his previously sold firearms had been used in crimes.
In rejecting the defense request that Ripp merely receive probation, Judge Conley explained that he had difficulty reconciling the good life that Ripp had led for most of his 66 years and the “callous” conduct of selling firearms that Ripp believed were going to unknown people, even after knowing that previously sold firearms were used in crimes. Judge Conley indicated that a prison term was necessary to deter other people who might consider engaging in the business of selling firearms without a license.
The charge against Ripp was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Burke.
Madison Felon Sentenced to 24 Months for Drug & Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that James M. Turner, 32, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to two concurrent 24-month federal prison terms for possessing drugs with the intent to distribute and a firearm as a convicted felon. Turner pled guilty to the charges on March 13, 2019. His prison term will be followed by a three-year period of supervised release.
On November 11, 2018, Wisconsin State Patrol Troopers stopped Turner in Dane County for speeding and erratic driving. Turner was arrested after he reached for a loaded revolver on the passenger’s seat. During a subsequent search of Turner’s car, the Troopers found 27.5 grams of a substance that later tested positive for cocaine.
Turner has prior felony convictions for delivering cocaine and possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute.
This case is 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 charge against Turner was the result of an investigation conducted by the Wisconsin State Patrol. This prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
US Attorney Blader Recognizes Law Enforcement During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – United States Attorney Scott C. Blader recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed this week.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
“During Police Week, our nation celebrates law enforcement officers for their dedication to keeping our communities safe, and recognizes those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Mr. Blader, the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin. “I want to acknowledge the work performed by these men and women and let them know they have our unwavering support and appreciation.”
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018, including two officers in Wisconsin – Officers Charles G. Irvine, Jr., and Michael J. Michalski of the Milwaukee Police Department. Officer Irvine died on June 7, 2018, and Officer Michalski died on July 25, 2018. The Milwaukee Police Department also suffered the loss of Officer Matthew J. Rittner on February 6, 2019.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil this evening. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019. For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org. and to access the FBI’s 2018 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov .
Wausau Man Sentenced to 11 Years for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Madison, Wis. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Antron Allen, 34, Wausau, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 11 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of pure methamphetamine. Allen pleaded guilty to this charge on November 28, 2018.
On April 17, 2018, officers with the Wausau Police Department observed Allen and his co-defendant Nathaniel Drow sitting in a vehicle in a parking lot in Wausau. Officers were aware that Drow and Allen both had active arrest warrants. As law enforcement officers approached the vehicle, Drow jumped out of the passenger seat and dropped a small baggie containing methamphetamine. Officers searched the entire vehicle and found approximately 200 grams of methamphetamine located in the front passenger door. Officers later searched Allen’s cell phone and discovered that Allen and Drow had been working together to sell methamphetamine in Wausau for at least a couple of weeks.
In imposing the sentence, Judge Peterson noted that Allen’s long criminal history, spanning nearly 20 years, showed he is a dangerous and irresponsible person. Judge Peterson also stated that Allen had established a pattern of continuously committing crimes shortly after being released from prior prison terms.
Drow was sentenced on November 8, 2018, to 10 years for his role in the conspiracy.
The charges against Allen and Drow were the result of an investigation by the Wausau Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution of this case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron D. Wegner.
U.S. Attorney's Office Hosts Roundtable on Sexual Harassment in HousingRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Wisconsin and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division hosted a roundtable today for community organizations to discuss the problem of sexual harassment in housing, U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader announced. The event hosted organizations who routinely work with vulnerable populations most likely to become victims of sexual harassment in housing, including legal aid offices, fair housing organizations, and shelters and transitional housing providers.
The Department of Justice, through the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Civil Rights Division, enforces the federal Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act.
“Sexual harassment in housing is often underreported, but it is an egregious violation of the Fair Housing Act,” U.S. Attorney Blader said. “My office is dedicated to uncovering such violations where they exist and vigorously enforcing the law.”
Today’s roundtable is part of the Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative. It seeks to identify barriers to reporting sexual harassment in housing, increase awareness of enforcement efforts – both among survivors and those to whom they report – and collaborate with federal, state and local partners to increase reporting and help survivors quickly and easily connect with federal resources.
While most people are familiar with the problem of sexual harassment in the workplace, harassment also occurs in housing, and the Fair Housing Act prohibits it. The Justice Department brings cases each year involving various illegal conduct, including allegations that defendants have exposed themselves sexually to current or prospective tenants, requested sexual favors in exchange for reduced rents or making necessary repairs, made unrelenting and unwanted sexual advances to tenants, and evicted tenants who resisted their sexual overtures. Many instances of sexual harassment in housing continue to go unreported. The Justice Department’s investigations frequently uncover sexual harassment that has been ongoing for years or decades and identify numerous victims who never reported the conduct to federal authorities.
In October 2017, the Justice Department launched an initiative to combat sexual harassment in housing. In April 2018, the Department announced the nationwide rollout of the initiative, including three major components: a new joint Task Force with the Department of Housing and Urban Development to combat sexual harassment in housing, an outreach toolkit to leverage the Department’s nationwide network of U.S. Attorney’s Offices, and a public awareness campaign, including the launch of a national Public Service Announcement.
Since launching the initiative, the Justice Department has filed nine lawsuits alleging a pattern or practice of sexual harassment in housing. The Justice Department has filed or settled 14 sexual harassment cases since January 2017, and has recovered over $2.2 million for victims of sexual harassment in housing.
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division enforces the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, which prohibit discrimination in housing and lending. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at https://www.justice.gov/crt . Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment or other types of housing discrimination can call the Housing Discrimination Tip Line at 1-800-896-7743, e-mail the Justice Department at [email protected], or contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or through its website at https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp .
Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may also file a complaint with the U.S. Attorney’s Office at 222 West Washington Avenue, Suite 700, Madison, WI, 53703; ATTN: Civil Rights Coordinator.
La Crosse Man Sentenced to 4 Years for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Kyle Olson, 33, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William Conley to four years in federal prison for possessing child pornography. This term of imprisonment is to be followed by 25 years of supervised release. Olson pleaded guilty to this charge on February 22, 2019.
On July 18, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the defendant’s home in La Crosse and seized numerous electronic items, which were later found to contain child pornography.
The defendant was previously convicted of possessing child pornography in 2012, while he was in the military. In sentencing the defendant, Judge Conley noted that Olson engaged in a “secret life of collecting and trading online child pornography” and was concerned Olson had begun engaging in online conversations with minors.
The charge against Olson was the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the La Crosse area Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the La Crosse County Sheriff’s Department, and the West Salem, Onalaska, Holmen, Town of Campbell, and La Crosse Police Departments. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.
Final Participant in La Crosse Methamphetamine Conspiracy SentencedRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Tom Lewis, 29, De Soto, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to three years in federal prison for using a telephone to facilitate the of distribution of methamphetamine. Lewis pleaded guilty to this charge on February 19, 2019.
Lewis agreed to join with Roberta Draheim, the leader of a methamphetamine distribution operation in La Crosse, to purchase two ounces of methamphetamine from her new source in California after her previous source disappeared. While they waited for the package of methamphetamine to arrive in the mail, Lewis used a telephone to arrange to distribute methamphetamine to Draheim.
Lewis joined with Draheim only five days after getting released from state custody on a separate matter. Judge Conley described Lewis as continuing to engage in the sale of multiple substances, including methamphetamine, while on state supervision.
Lewis and five other individuals were charged for their roles in Draheim’s methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. All six individuals have pleaded guilty and Lewis was the last to be sentenced.
The charge against Lewis was the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration in Wisconsin and California; Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; La Crosse Police Department; Prairie du Chien Police Department; and Dane County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper.
Serial Robber Pleads Guilty to Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Trevor Christian, 31, Madison, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty today to committing four robberies in Madison in November 2018. The maximum penalty for each robbery is 20 years in federal prison.
On November 1, 2018, Christian robbed a Walgreens on East Washington Avenue and obtained cash and cigarettes. Christian handed an employee a note that stated, “All the cash in the drawer, 30 seconds, don’t make me.”
On November 5, 2018, Christian robbed an Associated Bank on Shopko Drive and obtained cash. Christian handed the teller a note that stated, “It’s a robbery, give me all the money, no dye packs, don’t make me do anything stupid, 20 seconds.” The note was left behind, and Christian’s fingerprint was subsequently identified on it.
On November 7, 2018, Christian robbed an Associated Bank on Odana Road and again obtained cash. As he did in the previous two robberies, Christian handed a teller a note. On that occasion, the note stated, “This is a robbery, no alarms, no dye packs, all the money in the drawer and no one gets hurt. Be calm. 20 seconds.”
Finally, on November 14, 2018, Christian robbed the Dane County Credit Union on Struck Street, again using a note. During this robbery, the note stated, “It’s a robbery, keep calm, give me 20 seconds.” The teller complied and included bait bills.
All four robberies were captured on video. Still photographs of the robber were shared with the public, and the Madison Police Department (MPD) received a tip that the robber was Trevor Christian. After further investigation, MPD obtained warrants for Christian’s apartment and his cell phone. They recovered the bait money from the credit union, a pair of boots seen in the video, and an Associated Bank money band. Christian’s phone revealed he was searching for news of the robberies.
U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson scheduled sentencing for August 21, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. Christian has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on November 14, 2018.
The charges against Christian 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.
Crawford County Man Sentenced to 13 Years for Soliciting Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Ricky T. Olson, 60, Gays Mills, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 13 years in federal prison for receipt of child pornography. Olson pleaded guilty to this charge on January 7, 2019.
In February 2015, Olson used a false name to communicate with a child on Snapchat and persuaded the child to send him images and videos of the child engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Olson also admitted that he distributed the images and video to another Snapchat user and that Olson sent the child sexually explicit images of Olson himself.
In sentencing Olson, Judge Conley noted Olson’s lengthy and extensive criminal history, the fact that he created a false persona to commit the crime, and that Olson not only received images, but also redistributed them.
The charge against Ricky T. Olson was the result of an investigation conducted by the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura Przybylinski Finn, Diane Schlipper, and Julie Pfluger.
Felon Sentenced for Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Michael A. Raskie, 36, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to three years in federal prison for possessing firearms as a convicted felon. Raskie pleaded guilty to this charge on January 14, 2019. His prison term will be followed by a three-year period of supervised release.
On September 22, 2018, Raskie was observed shoplifting at a Menards store in Eau Claire. He gave the loss prevention officer permission to retrieve the stolen items from his truck. Prior to doing so, the Eau Claire police were called. They knew Raskie is a felon, who was on probation. While he was retrieving the stolen items, the loss prevention officer saw a rifle case in Raskie's truck. The loss prevention officer told Eau Claire police that there appeared to be a rifle in the case. The officers searched the truck and located methamphetamine, numerous rounds of ammunition, a homemade suppressor, a bump stock, a .45 caliber handgun, and an AR-15 rifle.
Judge Conley rejected Raskie’s request for an 18-month sentence because the firearms and ammunition were “high powered” and because Raskie accessorized them with the suppressor and bump stock.
This case was 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 charge against Raskie was the result of an investigation conducted by the Eau Claire 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.
Ringleader Sentenced to 22 Years for Nine Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jonathan L. Thompson, 31, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 22 years in federal prison today by U.S. District Court Judge William M. Conley on nine counts of aiding and abetting bank robbery and one count of brandishing a firearm. Thompson was convicted on January 30, 2019, after a three-day jury trial.
This case involved a series of nine bank robberies that were planned by Thompson, who was also the getaway driver. The robberies took place at banks in Madison, Middleton, Sun Prairie, and Fitchburg and occurred between January 8 and February 22, 2018. Robert Minette, Kiefah Marbra, and Thompson were indicted by a federal grand jury for these bank robberies on May 30, 2018. Minette was involved in the first two robberies and Marbra was involved in the latter eight of them.
Thompson chose the banks he wanted to rob and dropped off Marbra and Minette, who would enter the bank, brandish a gun, and demand money. After the robberies, Thompson would drive them back to his apartment where he would divide the proceeds.
In sentencing Thompson, Judge Conley found that Thompson was the leader and organizer in all of these robberies. Judge Conley was troubled by the fact that Thompson brought his teenage nephew, Marbra, into this scheme and put Marbra out front to be the fall guy. Judge Conley said that Thompson’s actions were “cynically calculated,” and that he lacked remorse for involving his nephew. Further, Judge Conley noted the severity of these violent crimes and the impact on the victims.
On January 15, 2019, both Marbra and Minette pleaded guilty to one count of brandishing a firearm. Marbra also pled to the eight bank robberies that he was involved in, while Minette pled to the two bank robberies in which he was involved. Marbra was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison on April 16. Minette was sentenced on March 28 to nine years in federal prison.
The charges in this case are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Madison Police Department, Middleton Police Department, Sun Prairie Police Department, Fitchburg Police Department, and Dane County Sheriff’s Office. The Dane County District Attorney’s Office also assisted in this case. The prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Corey Stephan and Daniel Graber.
This 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 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.
Wisconsin Rapids Man Charged with Being a Felon in Possession of Firearms
Michael Westfahl, 37, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, is charged with three counts of being a felon in possession of firearms. The indictment alleges that on November 17, 2018, he possessed a .45 caliber handgun; that on December 1, 2018, he possessed a .308 rifle; and that on December 21, 2018, he possessed a loaded .223 rifle, a loaded .40 caliber handgun, and a loaded. 38 caliber handgun.
If convicted, Westfahl faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on each charge. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Wood County Sheriff’s Department, Stevens Point Police Department, Wisconsin Rapids Police Department, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The Adams County District Attorney’s Office and Portage County District Attorney’s Office assisted in this case. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Man Charged with Robbing Madison Bank
Albert Singer, 23, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with bank robbery. The indictment alleges that he robbed the Chase Bank on East Towne Boulevard in Madison on August 11, 2018.
If convicted, Singer faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Madison Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan.
Janesville Man Charged with Receiving Child Pornography
Brian J. Garbe, 44, Janesville, Wisconsin, is charged with three counts of receiving child pornography. The indictment alleges that on February 27, March 3, and October 18, 2016, he downloaded videos from the internet containing visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
If convicted, Garbe faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum penalty of 40 years in federal prison on each count. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation; and Janesville Police Department. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.
Inmate Charged with Possessing Weapon
Francisco Rivera, 27, an inmate of the Federal Correctional Institution at Oxford, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing a prohibited object. The indictment alleges that on December 17, 2018, he possessed a weapon described as a metal needle with plastic wrapped around the end that measured approximately five and three-quarters inches in length.
If convicted, Rivera faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Man Sentenced for Distributing Heroin in MadisonRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Antonio Wiley, 38, Chicago Heights, Illinois, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge James Peterson to 87 months in federal prison for distributing heroin. This term of imprisonment is to be followed by six years of supervised release. Wiley pleaded guilty to this offense on January 3, 2019.
Wiley sold heroin to an undercover officer numerous times in 2017 and 2018. Judge Peterson found Wiley responsible for distributing between 100 and 400 grams of heroin in the Madison area, and while Judge Peterson did not believe Wiley to be a “kingpin,” he did find Wiley had sold “a fair amount of heroin in his day.” The Judge was also concerned that despite two prior convictions for selling heroin, Wiley continued his pattern of behavior.
Wiley’s co-conspirator, Darius Williams, 40, Chicago, Illinois, pleaded guilty on February 27, 2019 to distributing heroin. He will be sentenced by Judge Peterson on May 17.
The charge against Wiley was the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Narcotics and Gang Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.
Gang Member Sentenced to 54 Months for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Kendal J. Harris, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 54 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Harris pleaded guilty to this charge on January 3, 2019. His prison term will be followed by a three-year period of supervised release.
On August 27, 2018, the Madison Police Department Violent Crime Unit and the Dane County Narcotics Task Force arrested Harris on an outstanding probation warrant. Harris was in possession of a loaded firearm at the time. Harris has several felony convictions, including battery to a public transit operator.
Harris requested a 24-month sentence, claiming he possessed a firearm because he was protecting himself. According to Harris, several of his friends had recently been murdered and he was targeted. Judge Conley disagreed with this request, finding that Harris had a lengthy history of gang affiliation and a criminal history involving violent crimes. Judge Conley also noted that “gun violence is plaguing the Madison area” and that Harris poses a significant risk of re-offending.
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 charge against Harris was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department Violent Crime Unit. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
Mexican Citizen Sentenced for Illegally Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Pedro Pineda-Acosta, 38, a citizen of Mexico who was living in Madison, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James Peterson to 21 months in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States. Pineda-Acosta pleaded guilty to this charge on January 18, 2019.
Pineda-Acosta was previously deported and removed from the United States in December 2014.
While this was the defendant’s first immigration conviction, Judge Peterson was concerned with the defendant’s substantial criminal history which included several violent offenses.
The charge against Pineda-Acosta was the result of an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.
Madison Man Sentenced to 11 Years for Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Kiefah A. Marbra, 19, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison yesterday by U.S. District Court Judge William Conley, for aiding and abetting eight bank robberies and for brandishing a firearm during one of the robberies. Marbra entered a guilty plea to these charges on January 15, 2019.
This case involves a series of nine bank robberies that were planned by Jonathan Thompson, who was also the getaway driver. The robberies took place at banks in Madison, Middleton, Sun Prairie, and Fitchburg and occurred between January 8 and February 22, 2018. Marbra, Robert Minette, and Thompson were indicted by a federal grand jury for these bank robberies on May 30, 2018. Minette was involved in the first two robberies and Marbra was involved in the latter eight of them.
Thompson chose the banks he wanted to rob and dropped off Marbra and Minette, who would enter the bank, brandish a gun, and demand money. After the robberies, Thompson would drive them back to his apartment where he would divide the proceeds.
In sentencing, Judge Conley noted the traumatic affect these crimes had on the victims and remarked that Marbra was, “led into this by his cynically manipulative uncle [Thompson].” While Judge Conley found there was little doubt that Marbra was groomed by Thompson to do these robberies and “if necessary to be the fall guy,” Judge Conley said that “he must pay the price for his crimes.”
On January 15, 2019, Robert Minette pleaded guilty to the two bank robberies that he participated in and one count of brandishing a firearm. Jonathan Thompson was convicted by a jury on January 30, 2019, of all nine bank robberies and one count of brandishing a firearm after a three-day trial.
On March 28, Judge Conley sentenced Minette to nine years in federal prison. Thompson is scheduled to be sentenced on April 24 and he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years and a maximum penalty of life in prison.
The charges in this case are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Madison, Middleton, Sun Prairie, and Fitchburg Police Departments; and Dane County Sheriff’s Office. The Dane County District Attorney’s Office also assisted in the case. The prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corey Stephan and Daniel Graber.
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.
Wisconsin Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – After a five-day trial, a federal jury in Madison, Wisconsin, found Erin F. Graham, Jr., 37, of Madison, guilty on Friday, April 12, of seven counts of sex trafficking. The verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader for the Western District of Wisconsin.
Evidence presented at trial established that between 2015 and 2017, Graham engaged in sex trafficking by force, coercion and fraud, and transported individuals across state lines with the intent that they engage in prostitution. Graham posted advertisements on Backpage.com and forced or coerced individuals to commit commercial sex acts with those who responded to the advertisements. In addition, Graham transported two individuals between Wisconsin and Virginia with the intent that they engage in prostitution.
The scheme was uncovered in April 2017 when law enforcement officials encountered one of the victims at a Madison hotel when an employee called 911 after the victim ran from her room bleeding and hid behind the front desk. The victim told a nurse at a Madison hospital that she had been strangled to the point of unconsciousness by Graham when she told him she wanted to leave.
The victims testified that they were forced to engage in multiple acts of prostitution and turn over money they earned to Graham and his girlfriend, Patience Moore, 28, of Madison. The victims testified that they were the only source of income for Graham and Moore. Moore pleaded guilty for her role in this sex trafficking scheme on March 14.
“Through violence and coercion, Graham exploited vulnerable young women into committing commercial sex acts for his profit. In the process the victims were often degraded and robbed of their human dignity,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to bring human traffickers to justice.”
Traffickers use various techniques, including fraud, coercion and drugs – often opioids – to lure their victims and force them into commercial sexual or labor exploitation. The trauma caused by the traffickers can be so great that many may not identify themselves as victims or ask for help. The prosecution of sex traffickers is a priority for the Justice Department and all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices. Federal law provides severe penalties for these offenders. Since 2017, three sex traffickers convicted in the Western District of Wisconsin have received sentences totaling 58 years.
U.S. District Judge James Peterson scheduled Graham’s sentencing for July 1. Graham faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum of life in federal prison. Moore will be sentenced on June 5, and also faces a maximum of life.
The charges against Graham and Moore are the result of an investigation by the Dane County Sheriff’s Office, the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, with the assistance of the Madison, Grand Chute, Wisconsin State Capitol and Hampton (Virginia) Police Departments. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie Pfluger and Kevin Burke.
Federal Investigation into Lincoln Hills School ClosedRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Wisconsin and the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice announced today that the federal criminal investigation of alleged civil rights violations at Lincoln Hills School (LHS) has concluded, after finding insufficient evidence to prove federal criminal civil rights charges against LHS staff members.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Civil Rights Division, together with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted a comprehensive investigation into allegations that LHS staff members used unreasonable force against incarcerated youths on multiple occasions. As part of this investigation, a team of experienced civil rights prosecutors and federal agents conducted interviews of civilians and law enforcement witnesses, and reviewed materials and evidence generated during the course of the prior State investigations, including video footage, physical evidence, medical reports, and youth, employee, and law enforcement statements. Federal authorities also reviewed the Wisconsin Department of Corrections and Lincoln Hills School policies and procedures in place at the time, and Lincoln Hills School staff training and employment records.
To prove a violation of federal criminal civil rights laws, prosecutors must be able to prove that the involved staff members willfully used more force than was reasonably necessary. Proving “willfulness” is a heavy burden under federal law. Federal prosecutors must not only prove that the force used was excessive, but must also prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the staff member acted with the deliberate and specific intent to do something the law forbids. In this instance, there was insufficient evidence to establish beyond a reasonable doubt a violation of the federal criminal civil rights statutes.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Civil Rights Division remain committed to investigating allegations of excessive force by those acting under color of law and will continue to devote the resources necessary to ensure that all allegations of serious civil rights violations are investigated fully and completely.
Waunakee Man Pleads Guilty to Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Patrick O’Connor, 61, Waunakee, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty today to wire fraud and money laundering. The wire fraud and money laundering charges stem from O’Connor’s involvement in a large-scale investment fraud scheme involving a financial loss to multiple victims in excess of $9,000,000.
Beginning in 2011 and continuing until 2018, O’Connor solicited funds from several investors for investment in an entity he created entitled “Madison Financial Services.” As part of his solicitations, O’Connor made various material misrepresentations to investors regarding Madison Financial Services.
O’Connor represented that Madison Financial Services would invest all of the investors’ funds into a TradeStation online brokerage account. O’Connor represented that he would use the TradeStation account to actively trade purchased securities and he projected an average annual return on the investment of 2% a month, or 24% annually.
In fact, O’Connor used a large portion of the investors’ funds for his own personal expenses, including expenses related to his real estate development business and to repay other investors. Of the funds that O’Connor actually deposited into his TradeStation accounts and actively traded, he either lost or withdrew the vast majority of the funds and rarely generated any profit.
To further perpetuate the fraud, O’Connor provided investors with purported account statements from their investments with Madison Financial Services. The account statements were fictitious and showed the investors’ supposed year-to-date profits and their supposed current portfolio balance.
U.S. District Judge William Conley scheduled sentencing for July 30, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. O’Connor faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on the wire fraud charge and a maximum penalty of 20 years on the money laundering charge. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by IRS Criminal Investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner.
Man Sentenced for Distributing Methamphetamine into Red Cliff ReservationRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Tyrone Butterfield, 39, Red Cliff, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty and was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 14 years in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine.
The amount of methamphetamine attributable to Butterfield was approximately 680 grams, which Judge Conley described as a conservative estimate. Butterfield conspired with others, including Ryan Witter, whom he met when they were in prison together. Butterfield arranged for the shipment of numerous packages of methamphetamine from sources in California to Bayfield, Wisconsin. At Butterfield’s direction, several of his associates wired money to California and accepted packages of methamphetamine on his behalf. Almost all of the methamphetamine was distributed into the Red Cliff Reservation.
The Court considered Butterfield’s role as a manager or supervisor of the drug conspiracy and also his use of his residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine when imposing his sentence.
Tyrone Butterfield and three other individuals were charged for their roles in this methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. Butterfield is the last to plead and be sentenced. Simon Sayers was sentenced to 90 months for his role in the conspiracy. Rita Witter was sentenced to three years, and Ryan Witter, Rita Witter’s son, was sentenced to 126 months.
The charge against Butterfield was the result of an investigation conducted by the Red Cliff Police Department; Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Drug Enforcement Administration in Wisconsin and California; Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office; Ashland Police Department; and the Fremont (California) Police Department. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper.
Chicago Man Sentenced for Marathon County Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Michael A. Terrell Jr., 33, Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced on April 2 by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 6 ½ years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute heroin. Terrell pleaded guilty to this charge on January 15, 2019.
At sentencing, Judge Conley found that from April 2015 to July 2016, Terrell participated in a heroin trafficking conspiracy in the Wausau, Wisconsin area. Terrell and his co-conspirators used a cellular telephone facilitating and distributing heroin to calling customers. Specifically, the customers called a cellular telephone number given out by Terrell and his co-conspirators, ordered heroin from the person on the other end of the phone, and then conspiracy members delivered the heroin on behalf of the organization. Terrell and his co-conspirators were responsible for distributing at least 700 grams but less than 1 kilogram of heroin during the conspiracy.
In sentencing Terrell to 6 ½ years, Judge Conley stressed the large amount of heroin distributed by Terrell and his co-conspirators and the negative impact the heroin distribution had on the community.
Co-conspirators Alfred Wilson, Kyle Anderson, and Daryl Harris Jr. were sentenced to 7, 2 ½, and 11 years respectively.
The charge against Terrell was the result of an investigation conducted by the Marathon County Special Investigations Unit, Wausau Police Department, Marathon County Sheriff’s Office, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Reinhard.
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.
Madison Man Faces Additional Charges Related to Transporting Minor Across State Lines
Bryan Rogers, 31, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged in a superseding indictment with production of child pornography, making false statements to an FBI agent, and two counts of transporting a minor across state lines for an illegal sexual purpose.
Rogers was originally charged with production of child pornography in a complaint filed in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin on February 4, 2019. The grand jury returned an indictment on February 20 which charged him with production of child pornography and lying to a federal agent. The superseding indictment returned today adds two additional charges of transporting a minor in interstate commerce with the intent that the minor engage in sexual activity which would be a criminal offense under Wisconsin law, sexual assault of a child.
The new counts in the superseding indictment allege that on January 14, 2019, Rogers transported a minor from Tennessee to Wisconsin, and that on January 28, 2019, he transported the minor from Missouri to Wisconsin.
If convicted, Rogers faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in federal prison on the child pornography charge, and five years in prison on the charge of lying to investigators. The two charges of transporting a minor across state lines for an illegal sexual purpose carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and a maximum of life in prison.
Rogers has been in custody since his arrest in January. His trial is scheduled to take place on July 15 in U.S. District Court in Madison.
The charges against Rogers are the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Madison Police Department, Dane County Sheriff’s Office, and Monroe County (Tennessee) Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Pfluger.
This investigation was a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation. 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.
Madison Man Charged with Drug Crimes Involving Methamphetamine
Johnny B. Green, 38, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with four counts of distributing methamphetamine, with one count alleging distribution of 50 grams or more, and one count of possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he distributed methamphetamine on four occasions between October 5 and 17, 2018, and that he possessed methamphetamine on October 22, 2018.
If convicted, Green faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on each of the two counts alleging 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 20 years on each of the three other counts of distribution.
The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper.
Madison Man Charged with Possession of Cocaine With Intent to Distribute
Blair Cook, 25, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing cocaine with intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he possessed cocaine on March 25, 2019.
If convicted, Cook faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Madison Police Department and the Dane County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita Rumbelow.
Stevens Point Man Charged with Failing To Register as Sex Offender
Jason Ray Scott, 39, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, is charged with failing to register as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). The indictment alleges that from May 2017 through August 2018, he traveled from Texas to Wisconsin and failed to register as required by SORNA.
If convicted, Scott faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Pfluger.
Minnesota Man Sentenced for 2 Dane County Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Robert L. Minette, 32, Shakopee, Minnesota, was sentenced to nine years in federal prison today by U.S. District Court Judge William Conley on two counts of aiding and abetting bank robbery and one count of brandishing a firearm. Minette entered a guilty plea to these charges on January 15, 2019.
This case involves a series of nine bank robberies that were planned by Jonathan Thompson. The bank robberies—in Madison, Middleton, Sun Prairie, and Fitchburg, Wisconsin — occurred between January 8 and February 22, 2018. Minette, Kiefah Marbra, and Thompson were indicted by a federal grand jury for these bank robberies on May 30, 2018. Minette was involved in the first two robberies; Marbra was involved in the next eight robberies; Johnson planned the robberies and was the getaway driver.
Thompson chose the banks and dropped off Marbra and Minette, who would enter the bank, brandish a gun, and demand money. After the robberies, Thompson would drive them back to his apartment where he would divide the proceeds.
In sentencing Minette, Judge Conley remarked that in light of his criminal history, when Minette was released from prison he “doubled down” by then committing two bank robberies. Judge Conley noted that even after the dye pack went off during the first robbery, Minette committed a second robbery and that must be considered in terms of the risk that he poses.
On January 15, 2018, Marbra pled guilty to the eight bank robberies that he was involved in and one count of brandishing a firearm. Thompson was convicted on January 30, 2019, after a three-day jury trial, of all nine bank robberies and one count of brandishing a firearm.
Marbra is scheduled to be sentenced on April 16, 2018. Thompson is scheduled to be sentenced on April 24, 2019. They both face a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years and a maximum penalty of life in prison.
The charges against Thompson are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Madison Police Department, Middleton Police Department, Sun Prairie Police Department, Fitchburg Police Department, and Dane County Sheriff’s Office. The Dane County District Attorney’s Office also assisted in this case. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Corey Stephan and Dan Graber.
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.