District of Wyoming
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Wyoming Man Sentenced for Involuntary Manslaughter and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming Christopher A. Crofts announced today that on September 2, 2015, Dalton Enos, 23, was sentenced in federal court to 46 months imprisonment on one count of involuntary manslaughter and one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury in connection with Enos driving and crashing a motor vehicle on March 16, 2015 while intoxicated and causing the death of Arlyn Willow, 39, and causing serious injuries to victim M.C., on the Wind River Reservation. Enos was recommended for the residential drug and alcohol treatment program while imprisoned. Following imprisonment, Enos was placed on three years of supervised released and ordered to attend the Mothers Against Drunk Driver’s victim impact panel once monthly and pay a special assessment in addition to other terms and conditions. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Highway Patrol, the Fremont County Coroner’s Office, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Sentencings for July 10 - July 16, 2015Read the Press Release
Javier Vargas-Romo, 50, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on July 16, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Vargas-Romo was arrested in Worland, Wyoming. He received time served, plus 10 days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Pedro Gonzalez-Navarrez, 44, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on July 16, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Gonzalez-Navarrez was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received time served, plus 10 days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Caitlin Villa, 37, of Loveland, Colorado, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on July 15, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Villa was arrested in Adams County, Colorado. She received 69 months and six days imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department.
Benjamin Medina, 58, of Sheridan, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on July 10, 2015, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Medina received 180 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Sentencings for July 6 - July 9, 2015Read the Press Release
Andrew Lambert Silicani, 23, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on July 9, 2015, on four counts of use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire. Silicani was arrested in Rawlins, Wyoming. He received 420 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Department of Corrections and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
James Robert Ford, 49, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on July 8, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute between 50 and 200 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and for possession of an unregistered sawed-off shotgun. Ford was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He received 57 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200.00 special assessment. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Juan Jose Cortez-Becerra, 38, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on July 6, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Cortez-Becerra was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus 10 days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Lazaro Fernandez-Vargas, 40, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on July 6, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Fernandez-Vargas was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus 10 days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Sentencings for June 29 - June 30, 2015Read the Press Release
Ricardo Miranda, aka “Pee-Wee”, 28, of Springhill, Florida, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on June 30, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Miranda was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 100 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department.
Steven Henry Kichelmann, 41, of Salt Lake City, Utah, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on June 30, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute at least 200 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Kichelmann was arrested in Salt Lake City, Utah. He received 130 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Casey Piburn, 29, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on June 30, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute no less than 350 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Piburn was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He received 78 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $300.00 fine and a $200.00 special assessment. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Fred Thomas Lowery, 62, of Alpine, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on June 29, 2015, for possession of child pornography. Lowery was arrested in Alpine, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, a $400.00 fine, and restitution in the amount of $3,500.00. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Sentencings for June 22 - June 24, 2015Read the Press Release
Lawrence Kevin Paille, 60, of Kapaa, Hawaii, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on June 24, 2015, for conspiracy to defraud the United States by obstructing the assessment and collection of federal income taxes. Paille received a sentence of 3 years of supervised probation and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a restitution amount which will be determined at a later date. Paille’s co-conspirators Joseph Ruben Hill, Lucile Kathleen Hill and Gloria Jean Reeder were convicted by a jury for their parts in the same conspiracy on May 24, 2015, and are scheduled to be sentenced in August. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service.
Jose Arturo Llanez, 36, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on June 23, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Llanez was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received eight months imprisonment, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Amanda Bryn Erin Campbell, 33, of Arvada, Colorado, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on June 22, 2015, for conspiracy to defraud the United States by obstructing the assessment and collection of federal income taxes. Campbell received a sentence of 3 years of supervised probation and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $330,827.00. Campbell’s co-conspirators Joseph Ruben Hill, Lucile Kathleen Hill and Gloria Jean Reeder were convicted by a jury for their parts in the same conspiracy on May 24, 2015, and are scheduled to be sentenced in August. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service.
Conor Michael Latta, 22, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on June 22, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and heroin. Latta was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He received 84 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case results from an ongoing
Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.Sentencings for June 12 - June 18, 2015Read the Press Release
Jeremy Charles Hubbard, 36, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on June 18, 2015, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Hubbard was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 12 months and one day imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Natrona County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Omar Gomez-Salazar, 22, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on June 12, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Gomez-Salazar was arrested in Wheatland, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Sentencings for June 9 - June 10, 2015Read the Press Release
Robert Hill, 28, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on June 10, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and heroin. Hill was arrested in Tucson, Arizona. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $900.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Manuel Trevizo-Beltran, 29, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on June 9, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Trevizo-Beltran was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received ten months imprisonment, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Wyoming Man Charged with Sexual Abuse of A MinorRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming Christopher A. Crofts announced today that on June 3, 2015, 26 year old Carlino Jonas Goggles made his initial appearance on an Indictment charging him with one count of Sexual Abuse of a Minor, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2243(a) and 1153. Goggles faces potential penalties of up to fifteen years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a special assessment of $100 and supervised release for not less than 5 years nor more than life. Goggles’ case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Scott Skavdahl for further proceedings.
An Indictment is only an accusation. In every criminal case, the accused is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty, and the government always has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Sentencings for May 29 - June 4, 2015Read the Press Release
Paul Allen Miller, 25, of Mills, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on June 4, 2015, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Miller was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 30 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Natrona County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Erin Meyen, 41, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on June 1, 2015, for willful conversion of supplemental security income benefits. This charge arose from Meyen’s unlawful personal use of Social Security benefits meant to support her disabled son. Meyen received two years of supervised probation, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $47,468.95. This case was investigated by the U.S. Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General.
Eric D. Cox, 37, of Riverton, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on June 1, 2015, for possession of child pornography. Cox was arrested in Riverton, Wyoming. He received 36 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. Restitution will be determined at a later date. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Joshua James, 35, of Loveland, Colorado was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on June 1, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. James received 168 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $900.00 fine, a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Craig Thomas Rodgers, 60, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on May 29, 2015, for failure to register as a sex offender. Rodgers was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 28 months imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.
Roger Prado, 34, of Torrington, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on May 29, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Prado was arrested in Torrington, Wyoming. He received 70 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal.
Juan Diaz-Canedo, 39, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on May 29, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Diaz-Canedo was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Ausencio Lopez-Martinez, 25 of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on May 29, 2015 for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Lopez-Martinez was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Two Wyoming Residents and One Arizona Resident Convicted of Tax Fraud and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – On May 28, a jury in the District of Wyoming convicted two Cheyenne, Wyoming, residents and a Sedona, Arizona, resident on charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States and obstructing a grand jury investigation. The announcement was made by Acting Assistant Attorney General Caroline D. Ciraolo for the Justice Department’s Tax Division, U.S. Attorney Christopher A. Crofts for the District of Wyoming and Special Agent in Charge Gilbert R. Garza for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigations.
Joseph Ruben Hill aka Joe Hill, 56, and Lucille Kathleen Hill aka Kathy Hill, 58, both of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Gloria Jean Reeder, 68, of Sedona, Arizona, were convicted on charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States and obstructing a grand jury investigation following a three-week trial. In July 2014, Joe Hill, Kathy Hill and Reeder were indicted for conspiring to defraud the United States by promoting and using a sham trust scheme. Joe Hill and Reeder were also indicted for conspiring to obstruct the grand jury investigation in the District of Wyoming by causing individuals to withhold records required to be produced by federal grand jury subpoenas. Joe Hill was indicted on four substantive counts of obstruction with respect to four individuals that he corruptly persuaded to withhold documents from the grand jury. The jury convicted Joe Hill, Kathy Hill and Reeder of all charges alleged in the indictment.
“Yesterday’s verdicts demonstrate that the Tax Division is committed to identifying abusive tax schemes and pursuing and prosecuting the promoters to the fullest extent of the law,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo.
The evidence at trial established that Joe Hill and Kathy Hill last filed a federal individual income tax return in 1994, while Reeder had not filed since 1985. None of the defendants paid any income taxes from those years to the present. Joe Hill and Kathy Hill operated the business Creative Consulting Group (CCG), which sold sham trusts that they claimed would reduce or eliminate an individual’s federal income tax liability. Essentially, the scheme involved assigning income to the trust by using a bank account in the trust’s name that was opened with a false federal tax identification number. The Hills, Reeder, and many other CCG clients who testified during the trial used the CCG trusts to conceal income and assets from the IRS. Kathy Hill and Reeder both had prior IRS assessments of income tax in the 1990s, which they never paid. To prevent the IRS from seizing their homes, they both used false liens to conceal the properties’ equity.
During 2007 through 2012, Joe Hill and Kathy Hill earned almost $500,000 in income through selling the CCG trusts, while Reeder earned more than $400,000 in income from insurance commissions and a travel business. Three trial witnesses who used the CCG trusts --Lawrence Paille, Amanda Campbell and Stephanie Maciel -- previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States. The unreported income related to the scheme exceeded $2.7 million.
Chief U.S. District Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal set sentencing on Aug 6. The maximum penalty faced by each of the three defendants for conspiracy to defraud the United States is five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. For their convictions for conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, Joe Hill and Reeder each face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
“This verdict should send a clear message, promoting or participating in a fraudulent tax scheme is unacceptable; there is no secret formula that can eliminate a person's tax obligations,” said Special Agent in Charge Garza. “We owe it to every American taxpayer to investigate and prosecute individuals who participate in these fraudulent tax schemes.”
The case was investigated by special agents from the Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Denver, Colorado, offices of IRS Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Todd I. Shugart and Eric J. Heimann of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming and Trial Attorney Lori A. Hendrickson of the Tax Division.
Sentencing for May 8, 2015Read the Press Release
Noemi Alvarez Avila, 24, of Seattle, Washington, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on May 8, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and for possession of methamphetamine. Avila was arrested in Yellowstone National Park. She received five years of supervised probation with special conditions and was ordered to pay a $200.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the National Park Service.
Sentencings for May 1 - May 5, 2015Read the Press Release
Christopher Beets, 24, of Santa Rosa, California, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on May 5, 2015, for attempted production of child pornography. Beets was arrested in San Francisco, California. He received 300 months imprisonment, to be followed by a life term of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Roger Adcock, 42, of Canon City, Colorado, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on May 1, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, heroin and marijuana. Adcock was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 140 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $900.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Sentencings for April 20 - April 30, 2015Read the Press Release
Royce E. Mortiz, 46, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on April 30, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and for conspiracy to launder money. Mortiz was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $200.00 special assessment. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Mario R. Garza, 33, of Pueblo, Colorado, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on April 28, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and for conspiracy to launder money. Garza was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 240 months imprisonment, to be followed by ten years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $2,300.00 fine and a $200.00 special assessment. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Ignacio Moreno, 39, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on April 28, 2015, for possession of child pornography. Moreno was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received time served, to be followed by five years of supervised release, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This cases was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Ernie Petersen, 34, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on April 28, 2015, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Petersen was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 27 months imprisonment, to be followed by two years of supervised release. This case was investigated by the National Park Service with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Tracy Alshurafa, 28, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on April 24, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Alshurafa was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 180 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department.
Armando Carabajal, 39, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on April 24, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Carabajal was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 151 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department.
Wesley Wayne Leech, 48, of Cody, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on April 20, 2015, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Leech was arrested in Thermopolis, Wyoming. He received 18 months of probation and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Wyoming Man Sentenced for Assaulting A Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming Christopher A. Crofts announced today that on April 23, 2015, Jakota Allen Wolfname, a 24 year old Northern Arapaho Tribal Member, was sentenced for forcibly resisting and interfering with a federal officer in connection with an incident on February 10, 2014, involving the Defendant assaulting a Bureau of Indian Affairs Officer while the officer was attempting to lawfully arrest the Defendant, and having physical contact with the officer during the assault. Wolfname was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott Skavdahl to 24 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release, no fine and a $100.00 special assessment. Wolfname was also ordered to pay $819.00 in restitution for some of the officer’s medical costs associated with the injuries he sustained during the assault. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Sentencings for April 21 - April 22, 2015Read the Press Release
Jason Butler, 40, of Torrington, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on April 22, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and marijuana. Butler was arrested in Weston County, Wyoming. He received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Elizabeth Martinez, 29, of Modesto, California, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on April 21, 2015, for wire fraud. Martinez used her position as a clerk/cashier at Hoy’s Drug in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She used Hoy’s business account to show fraudulent “returns of merchandise” when there were no such returns, and Martinez was simply placing credits to various credit cards she had, or skimming cash from the registers. Martinez was arrested in Sacramento, California. She received one year, plus one day and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $142,733.12. Martinez will be placed on three years of supervised release after serving her sentence. This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, with the assistance of the Cheyenne Police Department.
Baldomero Juarez Guevarra, 26, of Zacatecas, Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on April 21, 2015, on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and one count of illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Guevarra was arrested in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. He received 84 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release. Guevarra was also ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the National Park Service with the assistance of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Sentencings for April 9 - April 13, 2015Read the Press Release
Samuel I. Miller, 27, of Denver, Colorado, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on April 13, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and marijuana. Miller was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $900.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Alejandro Trevizo-Beltran, 24, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on April 10, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Trevizo-Beltran was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Miguel Acuna-Enriquez, 57, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on April 10, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Acuna-Enriquez was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received seven months imprisonment, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Derek Skyler Brux, 22, of Wright, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on April 10, 2015, for violence against railroad carriers. Brux was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received five years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $63,212.76. This case was investigated by the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Jeffrey Legrand, 52, of Rozet, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on April 9, 2015, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Legrand was arrested in Rozet, Wyoming. He received 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case wasinvestigated by the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Sentencings for April 3 - April 8, 2015Read the Press Release
Preston Umbach, 35, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on April 8, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and heroin. He received 109 months imprisonment, concurrent to a previous state sentence, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. After serving his term of imprisonment, Umbach will be placed on supervised release for five years. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Kent Satake, 40, of Laramie, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief United States Magistrate Judge Kelly H. Rankin on April 6, 2015, for theft of public money involving Satake submitting time sheets to his employer, Developmental Preschool & Day Care Center, that resulted in billings to and payments by Wyoming Medicaid for services that were not provided. He received one year unsupervised release, was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $2,864.61, and a $25.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.
Anthony McEntee, 19, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief United States Magistrate Judge Kelly H. Rankin on April 6, 2015, for destruction of mail. McEntee received one year of supervised release, was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $210.00, a $100 fine, and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Veteran Administration Office of Inspector General.
Jeremiah Grove, 26, of Billings, Montana, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on April 3, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Grove was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $250.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Sentencings for March 30 - April 2, 2015Read the Press Release
Camala Peterson, 40, of Torrington, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on April 2, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Peterson was arrested in Torrington, Wyoming. She received 41 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $300.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Shane Martinez, 34, of Lyons, Colorado, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on April 1, 2015, for distribution of heroin resulting in death. Martinez was arrested in Weld County, Colorado. He received 96 months imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $900.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Brenda Barnes, 52, of Torrington, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on April 1, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Barnes was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She received 41 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Steven Ruth, 39, of Issaquah, Washington, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on April 1, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Ruth was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $900.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Meredith Fossey, 34, of Green River, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on March 31, 2015, for conspiracy to distribute at least 500 grams of methamphetamine. Fossey was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. She received 121 months of imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a
$900.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.Tyelure Schroeder, 25, of Lyman, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on March 31, 2015, for possession of child pornography. Schroeder was arrested in Lyman, Wyoming. He received 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $300.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Emiliano Martinez, 30, of Torrington, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on March 31, 2015, for possession of a short-barreled shotgun not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Martinez was arrested in Torrington, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Robert Lynn Harris, 47, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on March 30, 2015, for possession of child pornography. Harris was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime of supervised probation, and was ordered to pay a $900 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Sentencings for March 24 - 25, 2015Read the Press Release
Eastern Shoshone Woman Sentenced for Voluntary Manslaughter
United States Attorney Christopher A. Crofts announced today that on March 25, 2015, Ardis Enos, a 21-year-old enrolled Eastern Shoshone woman from Ethete, Wyoming, was sentenced by United States District Judge Scott W. Skavdahl for voluntary manslaughter. Enos received 132 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $3,700.00. The charge stemmed from Enos killing, upon a sudden heat of passion, her newborn son on March 26, 2014, on the Wind River Indian Reservation. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
United States Attorney Christopher A. Crofts would like to remind everyone that a parent or parent’s designee may relinquish a newborn child who is 14 days of age or younger to a safe haven provider (a fire station, hospital, police department or sheriff’s office or any other place of shelter and safety identified by the department of family services which is staffed twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week) in accordance with Wyoming’s Safe Haven Laws [Wyo. Stat. §§ 14-11-101 et seq.] and retain complete anonymity. Relinquishment of a newborn child shall not, in and of itself, constitute abuse or neglect and the newborn child shall not be considered abused or neglected so long as the relinquishment is carried out in substantial compliance with the provision of the safe haven act.
Northern Arapaho Woman Sentenced for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury
United States Attorney Christopher A. Crofts announced today that on March 24, 2015, Yvonne Lynn Moss, a 38-year-old enrolled Northern Arapaho woman from St. Stephens, Wyoming, was sentenced by United States District Judge Scott W. Skavdahl for assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Moss received 37 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. Restitution will be determined at a later date. The charge stemmed from an assault on Clarence Joseph Tyler, Moss’s boyfriend, which took place on or about October 11, 2014, on the Wind River Indian Reservation. Clarence Joseph Tyler subsequently died as a result of the injuries he suffered during the assault. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with substantial assistance of the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Sentencing for March 26, 2015Read the Press Release
Terrance Thomas, 39, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on March 23, 2015, for failure to register as a sex offender. Thomas was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received time served, to be followed by five years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service.
Francisco Santiago-Perez, 34, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on March 25, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Santiago-Perez was arrested in Cody, Wyoming. He received time served, plus 10 days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Malodee Jo Barnson, 35, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on March 23, 2015, on one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, at least 500 grams of methamphetamine and on one count of conspiracy to launder money. Barnson was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. She received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $200.00 special assessment. This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Sentencing for March 18, 2015Read the Press Release
Rodney Goich, 45, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on March 18, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, at least 500 grams of methamphetamine. Goich was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He received 78 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Sentencings for March 10 - March 11, 2015Read the Press Release
Merlin Maurillo-Ramirez, 46, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on March 11, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Maurillo-Ramirez was arrested in Douglas, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Office of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Lucio Martinez-Cruz, 29, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on March 11, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Martinez-Cruz was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Office of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Armando Lozano-Garza, 27, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on March 11, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Lozano-Garza was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Office of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Willis A. Center, 32, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on March 10, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Center was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 183 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $900.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Sentencings for February 26 - March 2, 2015Read the Press Release
Jorge Gonzalez-Gonzalez, aka Jorge Luis Diego, 29, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on February 26, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine, heroin and marijuana. Gonzalez-Gonzalez was arrested in Sheridan, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Joseph Jovon Dawson, 31, of Aurora, Colorado, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on March 2, 2015, for transporting a minor for illegal sexual activity. Dawson was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Casper Police Department; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; and the Denver Police Department.
Sentencings for February 19-25, 2015Read the Press Release
Jorge Enrique Barragan-Gutierrez, 22, of Bellflower, California, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on February 25, 2015, on one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine, heroin and marijuana; one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and one count of conspiracy to launder money. Barragan-Gutierrez was arrested in Los Angeles, California. He received 211 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $300.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal.
Penny McGlynn, 47, of Torrington, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on February 25, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine and marijuana. McGlynn was arrested in Torrington, Wyoming. She received 41 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Brian Jimenez, 47, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on February 23, 2015, for Medicare fraud involving his business Indulge Center for Health & Beauty. Jimenez was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $83,497.31 and was sentenced to three years of supervised probation. In addition to these criminal penalties, Jimenez may be barred from future participation in the Medicare program as a provider. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Daniel C. Groover, 38, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on February 20, 2015, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Groover was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 66 months imprisonment and 21 days, concurrent with a previously set state sentence, he is to serve five years of supervised release upon release from custody, and was ordered to pay a $250.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Amanda Dowers, 38, of Torrington, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on February 19, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine and marijuana. Dowers was arrested in Torrington, Wyoming. She received 57 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Sentencings for February 12-19, 2015Read the Press Release
Clyde Preston Schmidt, 39, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on February 19, 2015, for possession of child pornography. Schmidt was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 66 months imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay an $800.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Christopher Lawrence Haynes, 36, of Sheridan, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on February 17, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute methamphetamine, heroin and marijuana. Haynes was arrested in Sheridan, Wyoming. He received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Tanisha Valero, 43, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on February 17, 2015, for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Valero was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She received 108 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department.
John Pryor Nunn, 34, of Torrington, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge
Alan B. Johnson on February 13, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to
distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and marijuana. Nunn was arrested in Torrington,
Wyoming. He received 240 months imprisonment, to be followed by ten years of supervised release,
and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.Brian David Carpenter, 34, of Sheridan, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on February 12, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute methamphetamine, heroin and marijuana. Carpenter was arrested in
Sheridan, Wyoming. He received 119 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $900.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.Sentencings for February 6-10, 2015Read the Press Release
Ryon Rudy James Herbst, 27, of Lander, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on February 10, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin. Herbst was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 70 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Juan Claudio Ontiveros, 28, of Greeley, Colorado, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on February 6, 2015, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Ontiveros was arrested in Greeley, Colorado. He received 108 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Casper Police Department, the Natrona County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Sentencings for February 5, 2015Read the Press Release
Abraham Cabrera-Bedolla, 29, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on February 5, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Cabrera-Bedolla was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received six months imprisonment, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Reyna Castillo-Hernandez, 38, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on February 5, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Castillo-Hernandez was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Wyoming Man Sentenced for Failing to Update His Registration as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming Christopher A. Crofts announced today that on January 27, 2015, Wolfe Jon Taylor Willow, a 29 year old Northern Arapaho Tribal Member, was sentenced for failure to update his sex offender registration for a period of time in January 2014, when his whereabouts were unknown. Willow was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott Skavdahl to 16 months imprisonment, 14 years of supervised release, a $200 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Sentencings for January 22 - 27, 2015Read the Press Release
Wayne Bailey, 39, of West Jordan, Utah, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 27, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin resulting in death. Bailey was arrested in West Jordan, Utah. He received 97 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Heather L. Fletcher, 27, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 26, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin. Fletcher was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. She received 37 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $150.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Skyeler I. French, 28, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 26, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin. French was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He received 87 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $300.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Shaelynn Dawn Smith, 23, of Evanston, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 26, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, at least 350 grams but less than 500 grams of methamphetamine. Smith was arrested in Evanston, Wyoming. She received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $150.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Erik M. Styles, 27, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 22, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and distribution of heroin. Styles was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He received 37 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Sentencings for January 8 - 14, 2015Read the Press Release
Anthony Stoner, 29, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on January 14, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and for possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Stoner was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 180 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Sergio Bucio-Cuellar, 47, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on January 14, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Bucio-Cuellar was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 12 months imprisonment, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subjection to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Miguel Angel Rodriguez-Bustos, 41, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on January 14, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Rodriguez-Bustos was arrested in Rawlins, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Freddy Urbina, 42, of Nicaragua, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on January 13, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Urbina was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Raul Gomez-Medina, 40, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 12, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Gomez-Medina was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Oscar Asencio-Melian, aka Oscar Ascencio-Ramirez, Luis Orland Polo-Abadia, and Oscar Omar-Rodriguez, 40, of Guatemala, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 12, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States and for misuse of a social security number. Asencio-Melian was arrested in Sundance. He received 15 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, was ordered to pay a $200.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Camerron Morris, 37, of Green River, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District
Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 12, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to
distribute heroin. Morris was arrested in Green River, Wyoming. She received 15 months
imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a
$100.00 special assessment and a $200.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater
County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug
Enforcement Administration.Trevor James Tucker, 42, of Ogden, Utah, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott
W. Skavdahl on January 9, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to
distribute, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Tucker was arrested in Salt Lake City,
Utah. He received 57 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release,
and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the
Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.Lonnie Lindell, 43, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court
Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 9, 2015, for theft of government money. Lindell was
arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received two years of probation, with special conditions,
and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of
$149,824.00. This case was investigated by the U.S. Social Security, Office of the Inspector
General.Derek Keith Taylor, 42, of Layton, Utah, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge
Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 8, 2015, on one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to
distribute, and to distribute, at least 500 grams of methamphetamine; one count of possession
with intent to distribute methamphetamine; and one count of conspiracy to launder money.
Taylor was arrested in Evanston, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be
followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $300.00 special
assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and
the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.Man Sentenced for Assault with A Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Christopher A. Crofts announced that on January 8, 2015, twenty-two year old TomElk Redman, a Northern Arapaho Tribal member of Ethete, Wyoming, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl, to 15 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $100.00 special assessment for his March 2014, assault with a dangerous weapon on the Wind River Indian Reservation. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Sentencings for January 5 - 8, 2015Read the Press Release
Darren Olson, 27, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 8, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, heroin. Olson was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He received 41 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $200.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Erica J. Ganino, 26, of Green River, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 8, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin. Ganino self-surrendered. She received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Gerardo Sanchez-Morales, 29, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 7, 2015, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Sanchez-Morales was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Amanda Alcon, 33, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on January 5, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine. Alcon was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She received 78 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $100.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department.
Andrew J. Ebert, 27, of Green River, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on January 5, 2015, for conspiracy to possess with intent to
distribute, and to distribute, heroin. Ebert was arrested in Green River, Wyoming. He received 70 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $17,167.50. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.Sentencings for December 12 - December 18, 2014Read the Press Release
Kara Harper, 31, of Green River, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on December 18, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin resulting in death. Harper was arrested in Green River, Wyoming. She received 72 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Gregg T. Denny, 43, of Rawlins, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on December 17, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and for conspiracy to launder money. Denny was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by eight years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $200.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Steven D. Webb, 44, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on December 17, 2014, for possession of child pornography. Webb was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 36 months imprisonment, to be followed by 15 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $1,250.00. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Ernie Paul Montoya, Sr., 68, of Coalville, Utah, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on December 16, 2014, on one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, more than 500 grams of methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; and one count of conspiracy to launder money. Montoya was arrested in Coalville, Utah. He received 87 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $700.00 fine and a $300.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
David Puhl, 21, of Nunn, Colorado, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on December 16, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Puhl was arrested in Ault, Colorado. He received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Christopher Withrow, 44, of Sheridan, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on December 16, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Withrow was arrested in Sheridan, Wyoming. He received 70 months of imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $900.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Delza K. McKannan, 49, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on December 12, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and conspiracy to launder money. McKannan was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. She received 84 months imprisonment, to be followed by six years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $200.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Sentencings for November 25 - December 4, 2014Read the Press Release
Ignacio Garcia-Perez, 31, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on December 4, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Garcia-Perez was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Adam Maggos, 33, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on December 4, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine. Maggos was arrested in Rock Springs. He received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $400.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Oscar Enriquez-Rios, aka Adrian Enriquez-Rios, 31, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Alan B. Johnson on December 3, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Enriquez-Rios was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Christopher J. Butterfield, 25, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on December 2, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine. Butterfield was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department.
Rebecca Sue Pendley, 32, of Evanston, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on December 2, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine. Pendley was arrested in Evanston, Wyoming.
She received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $250.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.Isaac “Trey” Johnson, 25, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on December 2, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin. Johnson was arrested in Jordan, Utah. He received 87 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $900.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Kyle Barrus, 25, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on December 2, 2014, for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Barrus was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $150.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Patrick Bennett, 28, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on November 25, 2014, for aiding and abetting mail fraud. Bennett was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 46 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $261,199.69. This case was investigated by the Casper Police Department, the U.S. Postal Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Wyoming U.S. Attorney's Office Collects $7,059,989 in Civil and Criminal Actions for U.S. Taxpayers in Fiscal Year 2014Read the Press Release
Cheyenne - U.S. Attorney Christopher A. “Kip” Crofts announced today that the District of Wyoming US Attorney’s Office collected $7,059,989 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2014. Of this amount, $2,974,012 was collected in criminal actions and $4,085,977 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, the District of Wyoming worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect $73,596 in cases pursued jointly with these offices.
Attorney General Eric Holder announced on November 19th that the Justice Department collected $24.7 billion in civil and criminal actions in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2014. The more than $24 billion in collections in FY 2014 represents nearly eight and a half times the appropriated $2.91 billion budget for the 94 U.S. Attorney’s offices and the main litigating divisions in that same period.
“Every day, the Justice Department’s prosecutors and trial attorneys work hard to protect our citizens, to safeguard precious taxpayer resources, and to provide a valuable return on investment to the American people,” said Attorney General Eric Holder. “Their diligent efforts are enabling us to achieve justice and recoup losses in virtually every sector of the U.S. economy. And as a result, I can report today that – during Fiscal Year 2014 – the Justice Department collected a total of $24.7 billion in civil and criminal actions.”
“I am very pleased with the efforts of the Wyoming U.S. Attorney’s Office in collecting more than twice the annual cost of operating the office and for providing great value to the American taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Crofts.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims’ Fund, which distributes the funds to state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
The largest civil collections were from affirmative civil enforcement cases, in which the United States recovered government money lost to fraud or other misconduct or collected fines imposed on individuals and/or corporations for violations of federal health, safety, civil rights or environmental laws. In addition, civil debts were collected on behalf of several federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Health and Human Services, Internal Revenue Service, Small Business Administration and Department of Education.
Wyoming Man Sentenced for Assault of A Spouse by StranglingRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming Christopher A. Crofts announced that on November 20, 2014, Jameson Kaulaity, a 28-year-old Northern Arapaho Tribal member, was sentenced by United States District Judge Scott W. Skavdahl to 15 months of imprisonment, to be followed by 3 years supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Mr. Kaulaity will be required to surrender to the United States Bureau of Prisons to begin serving his sentence on January 5, 2015. He previously pled guilty to one count of assault of a spouse by strangling in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 113(a)(8) and 1153. The charge against Mr. Kaulaity stemmed from an incident that occurred on January 29, 2014 on the Wind River Indian Reservation. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Sentencings for November 7 - November 12, 2014Read the Press Release
Zachary G. Knigge, 23, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Nancy D. Freudenthal on November 12, 2014, for unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm. Knigge was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Mario Alberto Ramirez-Contreras, 41, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on November 12, 2014, for possession of child pornography. Ramirez-Contreras was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He received 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
James L. Brown, 51, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on November 7, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute at least 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Brown was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 130 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $500.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Daphne C. Watkins, 53, of Bowden, West Virginia, was sentenced by Federal District Court Scott W. Skavdahl on November 7, 2014, for possession with intent to distribute approximately 118 kilograms of marijuana and aiding and abetting. Watkins was arrested in Yellowstone National Park. She received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the National Park Service and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Sentencing for October 31, 2014Read the Press Release
Henry Agustin Aguilera, 30, of Honduras, was sentenced by Federal District Court Alan B. Johnson on October 31, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Aguilera was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Press Release by United States Attorney Relating to November 2014 ElectionsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Christopher A. Crofts announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Stephanie I. Sprecher will lead the efforts of her office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 4, 2014, general elections. AUSA Sprecher has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Wyoming, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney Crofts said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted without it being stolen because of fraud. The Department of Justice will act promptly and aggressively to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on Election Day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice.
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 4, 2014, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, United States Attorney Crofts stated that AUSA/DEO Sprecher will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. She can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (307) 261-5434.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (307) 632-6224.
Complaints about ballot access problems or discrimination can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767.
United States Attorney Crofts said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate. It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available immediately to my office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division.”
Man Sentenced for Assaulting & Resisting A Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Christopher A. Crofts announced that on October 30, 2014, thirty-six year old Delray Quiver of the Wind River Indian Reservation was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Scott Skavdahl, to 70 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $100.00 special assessment. Mr. Quiver previously pled guilty to this offense, which occurred in January 2013, and stemmed from Mr. Quiver’s actions when a Bureau of Indian Affairs Police Officer attempted to arrest him. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Sentencings for October 23 - October 30, 2014Read the Press Release
Candelario Castro-Andraca, 54, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on October 30, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Castro-Andraca was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Daryll Giron, 27, of Salt Lake City, Utah, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on October 23, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 500 grams of methamphetamine and for conspiracy to launder money. Giron was arrested in Salt Lake City, Utah. He received 102 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Joseph Richard Parry, 28, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 23, 2014, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Parry was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 27 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Sentencings for October 21 - October 23, 2014Read the Press Release
Felipe Baez-Vasquez, 26, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 23, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Baez-Vasquez was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Martin Fernando Dominguez-Vasquez, 41, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 23, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Dominguez-Vasquez was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Amy Rochelle Wendt, 42, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 23, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Wendt was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She received 84 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200.00 fine and a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Spencer Dale Cottrell, 43, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 22, 2014, for making counterfeit obligations of the United States and for passing counterfeit obligations of the United States. Cottrell was arrested in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He received 15 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $950.00. This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service.
Melissa Lynne Goddard, 47, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 21, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Goddard was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She received 37 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Sentencings for October 9 - October 16, 2014Read the Press Release
Naomi Oakley-Bonner, 36 of Douglas, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on October 16, 2014, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Oakley-Bonner was arrested in Douglas, Wyoming. She received 21 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Tyrone Carey, 38, of Douglas, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on October 15, 2014, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Carey was arrested in Douglas, Wyoming. He received 51 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Nicolas Counts, 28, of Bar Nunn, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on October 15, 2014, for aiding and abetting mail fraud. He received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Rogaciano Escalante, aka Rogaciano Escalante-Rodriguez, 53, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on October 15, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Escalante was arrested in Pinedale, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Jose Perez-Cortez, 26, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 15, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Perez-Cortez was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days,
was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.Kenneth Shannon Miller, 43, of Green River, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on October 15, 2014, for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Miller was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 188 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $500.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Casper Police Department, the Natrona County Sheriff’s office and the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Kyle James Tillia, 25, of Harrisville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 14, 2014, for possession with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana and aiding and abetting. Tillia was arrested near Green River, Wyoming. He received 31 months imprisonment, to be followed by two years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $500.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Holly Dawn Hatch, 35, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on October 14, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Hatch was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. She received 80 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $900.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Shawn Richard Nikkila, 31, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on October 14, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Nikkila was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to a $100.00 special assessment and a $900.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Joseph D. Stewart, 25, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on October 14, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Stewart was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Thomas Felix Aflague, Jr., 36, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on October 14, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Aflague was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 200 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a$1,400.00 fine. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Cody D. Nace, 30, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on October 14, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Nace was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $500.00 fine. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Michael Anthony Antonini IV, 21, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 9, 2014, on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and aiding and abetting and one count of possession with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana and aiding and abetting. Antonini was arrested near Green River, Wyoming. He received 31 months imprisonment, to be followed by two years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $500.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Sentencings for October 2 - October 8, 2014Read the Press Release
Juan Roberto Andrade-Andrade, 40, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 8, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Andrade-Andrade was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Santiago Piucana-Mendez, 38, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on October 8, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Piucana-Mendez was arrested in Laramie, Wyoming. He received time served, plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Jamie Sanchez-Garcia, 31, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on October 8, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Sanchez-Garcia was arrested in Laramie, Wyoming. He received six months imprisonment, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment, and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Marvin Iverson, 66, of Burlington, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 8, 2014, for bank fraud. Iverson was arrested in Burlington, Wyoming. He received 33 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $29,358.29. This case was investigated by the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office, the Cody Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Senacia Jamie Mert, 23, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 3, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 608 grams of methamphetamine. Mert was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She received 92 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $200.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Magen Nichole Stuart, 26, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 3, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 718 grams of methamphetamine. Stuart was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She received 84 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $500.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Steven Paul Burns, 26, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 2, 2014, for possession of stolen mail. Burns appeared pursuant to a summons. He received one year of supervised probation and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $3,098.58. This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General.
Sentencings for September 26 - October 1, 2014Read the Press Release
Judi Bufkin, 53, of Knoxville, Tennessee, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on October 1, 2014, for arson of a facility engaged in interstate commerce. Bufkin was arrested in Knoxville, Tennessee. She received 96 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $110,714.85. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
James Pearson Thain, 38, of Utah, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on September 30, 2014, for bank robbery and aiding and abetting. He was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 324 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $1,400.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $51,073.66. This case was investigated by the Casper Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Gina Grimm, 45, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on September 30, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 100 grams or more of methamphetamine. Grimm was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. She received 78 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $1,900.00 fine. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Latisha Doloris, 27, of Selma, California, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on September 30, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Doloris was arrested in Selma, California. She received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Dana Christopher Conde, 36, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on September 26, 2014, for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Conde was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 30 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $400.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Casper Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Preston P. Montoya, 39, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on October 1, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Montoya was arrested in Casper. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $250.00 fine. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Man Sentenced for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
Mauricio Nieves-Radilla, 36, of Mexico, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on September 24, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Nieves-Radilla was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received 16 months imprisonment, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Colorado Man Convicted for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Christopher A. Crofts announced today that Nunn, Colorado resident David PUHL has been convicted in federal court. Puhl was charged in an Indictment on May 21, 2014, for violating 21 U.S.C. §§ 846 and 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B), conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute methamphetamine. A jury found Puhl guilty after a five-day jury trial in the U.S. District Court in Cheyenne. Puhl is scheduled to be sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on December 1, 2014.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Sentencings for September 16-17, 2014Read the Press Release
Julio Ceasar Torres-Torres, 29, of Mexico, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on September 17, 2014, for illegal re-entry of a previously deported alien into the United States. Torres-Torres was arrested in Cody, Wyoming. He received time served plus ten days, was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and is subject to deportation upon release from custody. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Kendra Iverson, 43, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on September 16, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of 3.4 kilograms of methamphetamine. Iverson was arrested in Phoenix, Arizona. She received 87 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $900.00 fine. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Sentencings for September 5-11, 2014Read the Press Release
Brian Hayden Allen, 42, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on September 11, 2014, for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Allen was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 114 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $500.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Joseph Matthew Colvin, 44, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson on September 5, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of methamphetamine and heroin. Colvin was arrested in Gillette, Wyoming. He received 120 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $500.00 fine. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation.
Sentencings for August 21-26, 2014Read the Press Release
Ryan M. Bennett, 23, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on August 26, 2014, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distributing 793.8 grams of methamphetamine. Bennett was arrested in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He received 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Brian M. White, 39, of Jackson, Wyoming, was sentenced by Chief Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal on August 25, 2014, for possession of child pornography. White was arrested in Jackson, Wyoming. He received 36 months imprisonment, to be followed by ten years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and restitution in the amount of $1,000.00. This case was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Charles Daniel Shamblen, 62, of Fremont County, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on August 21, 2014, for abusive sexual contact of a minor. Shamblen received 360 months imprisonment; to be served consecutively to his undischarged term of imprisonment of 15-20 years, imposed by the Fremont County District Court, Wyoming. Docket No 6335. Additionally, Shamblen was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment and a $2,000.00 fine. Upon release from custody, Shamblen will be placed on a life-time term of supervised release. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Timothy Holmstrom, 45, of Reliance, Wyoming, was sentenced by Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl on August 21, 2014, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He received 37 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100.00 special assessment. This case was investigated by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.