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23 January 2024
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun and Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ASHTON CAUSEY, age 22, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty on January 19, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Darrel James Papillion to Counts 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8 of the indictment pending against him. Count 1 charged CAUSEY with the illegal possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18 USC § 922(o). Count 3 charged him with possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of marijuana, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D). Counts 4 and 7 charged him with possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and marijuana, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) and (D). Count 5 charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). Count 8 charged him with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c).
Based on his guilty plea, CAUSEY will face the following sentences as to each count:
As to Count 1, CAUSEY faces up to 10 years in prison, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and up to years of supervised release. .
As to Count 3, CAUSEY faces up to 5 years in prison, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and up to years of supervised release.
As to Counts 4 and 7, CAUSEY faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000.00 fine, and up to years of supervise release.
As to Count 5, CAUSEY faces up to 10 years in prison, up to a $250,000.00 fine , and up to years of supervised release.
As to Count 8, CAUSEY faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years up to a maximum of life in prison, up to a $250,000 fine , and up to years of supervise release. Any jail sentence imposed in connection with Count 8 must be served consecutive to any other count.
Additionally, as to each charged count, CAUSEY faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the New Orleans Police Department, the Louisiana State Police, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun and Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – COREY BESSIE, age 30, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty on January 22, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Darrel James Papillion to Counts 6 and 7 of the indictment pending against him. Count 6 charged BESSIE with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). Count 7 charged BESSIE with possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and marijuana, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) and (D).
Based on his guilty plea, BESSIE will face the following sentences as to each count:
As to Count 6, BESSIE faces up to 10 years in prison, up to a $250,000.00 fine , and up to three years of supervised release.
As to Count 7, BESSIE faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000.00 fine, and not less than three years of supervised release.
Additionally, as to each charged count, BESSIE faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Machinegun PossessionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – XAVION WATTS, age 19, a New Orleans resident, was indicted on January 19, 2023 for possession of a machinegun, in violation of 18 U.S.C. 922(o).
WATTS faces up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. The indictment alleges that the Glock nine-millimeter pistol he possessed had been converted into a fully automatic weapon.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Britain Man Involved in Coast-to-Coast Drug Trafficking Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division. today announced that RAMON RAMOS-ACEVEDO, 48, of New Britain, pleaded guilty yesterday in Hartford federal court to a charge stemming from the large scale trafficking of fentanyl and cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2022, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s (USPIS) Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force identified suspicious packages that were being to a New Britain address connected to Ramos-Acevedo and his associate, Victor Rodriguez-Gomez, also known as “Calami,” of Desert Hot Springs, California. A court-authorized search of one package, which had been mailed from California, revealed approximately one kilogram of fentanyl and one kilogram of heroin. In July 2022, USPIS investigators in San Bernardino, California, contacted Connecticut investigators to report that a court-authorized search of a package that was addressed to a residence on Willow Street in New Britain revealed eight cell phones. On August 1, 2022, investigators conducted a controlled delivery of the package in New Britain and observed Ramos-Acevedo and Rodriguez-Gomez take possession of it.
Investigators identified several additional suspicious packages associated with Ramos-Acevedo and, on August 11, 2022, observed Ramos-Acevedo in California mailing packages to an address in New Britain.
Investigators also developed evidence that Rodriguez-Gomez had an associate who used a van to transport narcotics from California, or another location in the southwestern United States, to addresses in Connecticut associated with Ramos-Acevedo. On August 25, 2022, investigators observed Ramos-Acevedo unloading items from the van in New Britain.
On September 7, 2022, the Connecticut State Police, which was assisting with surveillance, stopped a vehicle that Ramos-Acevedo was driving in Newington for a motor vehicle violation. Rodriguez-Gomez was a passenger in the vehicle. After a K-9 alerted to several items within the vehicle, a search revealed $179,578 in cash and nine cellphones. A subsequent search of a house in Farmington where Ramos-Acevedo claimed he was living resulted in the seizure of an additional $30,426 in cash.
On November 30, 2022, the Iowa State Patrol stopped Rodriguez-Gomez’s associate, who was driving the van that had been identified in August 2022. A search of the van revealed approximately 22 kilograms of cocaine and two kilograms of fentanyl, which was destined for Ramos-Acevedo in New Britain.
Ramos-Acevedo, who has been detained since his arrest on December 1, 2022, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and five kilograms or more of cocaine, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea on April 15.
Rodriguez-Gomez, 48, who has been detained since his arrest on December 4, 2022, pleaded guilty to the same charge on December 4, 2023. He is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Shea on March 8.
This investigation is being conducted by the DEA’s Hartford Task Force and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force. The DEA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments. The USPIS Task Force includes members from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service – Office of the Inspector General, the Connecticut Army National Guard, and the Hartford, New Britain, Meriden, and Town of Groton Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Geoffrey M. Stone and Shan Patel.
National Human Trafficking Prevention Month: U.S. Attorney and HSI Announce Partnership in Tornado Alley Child Exploitation and Trafficking Task ForceRead the Press Release
As part of National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson is announcing partnership in the Tornado Alley Child Exploitation and Trafficking Task Force (TACETT) created by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
TACETT will be proactive on crimes against children relating to the internet including the distribution and production of child pornography, child enticement or exploitation, and human trafficking. The task force will also investigate other child-related cases, including, but not limited to, missing / abducted children, sexting and indecent exposure where children are victims. In addition, the task force will conduct outreach in communities in Oklahoma in an attempt to identify unreported crimes involving children, as well as conducting educational outreach at schools and various youth community organizations.
This partnership will multiply each agency’s resources, authorities, and jurisdictions to prevent, identify, investigate, and ultimately prosecute child exploitation and human trafficking related crimes. This will also enable HSI and its partners to share resources, best practices and intelligence assets thereby maximizing their ability to conduct effective investigations to combat human trafficking and ever-evolving crimes against children.
“This task force is designed to foster closer relationships between the Northern District of Oklahoma and federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement who are actively involved in any child exploitation and human trafficking related investigations,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Federal prosecutors and law enforcement will do everything within our power to protect victims of child exploitation and human trafficking.”
“Protecting our most marginalized and vulnerable is a major priority for HSI,” said Lester R. Hayes, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, HSI Dallas. “The creation of this task force will enhance our law enforcement capabilities immensely.”
The TACETT incorporates personnel from HSI Tulsa, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, Tulsa Police Department, Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, Rogers County Sheriff’s Office, LeFlore County District Attorney’s Office, Muskogee Police Department, Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office, Pryor Creek Police Department, Skiatook Police Department, Broken Arrow Police Department, Wagoner County Sheriff’s Office, Collinsville Police Department, Owasso Police Department, Mayes County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, Checotah Police Department, Sapulpa Police Department, Bristow Police Department, Glenpool Police Department, Tahlequah Police Department, Coweta Police Department, Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police Department, Osage County Sheriff’s Office, McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
If you or someone you know is a victim of child exploitation or experienced human trafficking, confidential help is available. Resources and contact information for child exploitation is available through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Human trafficking resources and contact information is available through the National Human Trafficking Hotline Call: 1-888-373-7888; Text: HELP to 233733 (BEFREE); or Chat: humantraffickinghotline.org/chat.
Nashville Man Sentenced to 32 Months in Federal Prison for Assault Committed as an Escaped Federal InmateRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE -- Marchello Shobe, who committed a violent assault after escaping from a federal facility, was sentenced to 32 months in federal prison for his actions, announced United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis.
Shobe, 42 of Nashville, Tennessee, had previously been convicted of violent felonies. He was sentenced to ten years in federal prison in 2011 for throwing a Molotov cocktail at an ex-girlfriend.
In March of 2021, Shobe arrived at a halfway house maintained by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons and designed to help inmates transition back to civilian life from a prison setting. He escaped from the halfway house barely a month after arriving there. The day after he escaped, on April 21, 2021, Shobe violently assaulted a Nashville woman in a business parking lot in Nashville. Further investigation revealed that he had previously exchanged letters with the woman while he was in prison.
Shobe was later indicted by a federal grand jury and convicted of Escape. Yesterday, U.S. District Judge Eli Richardson sentenced Shobe to 32 months in federal prison and ordered that this sentence be served consecutively to the prior sentence Shobe received for assaulting the woman while on escape status. Shobe was also sentenced to three years of supervised release to follow his prison sentence.
“This defendant has a long history of violence,” said United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis. “Today’s sentence holds him accountable for his actions and should send a message that those who escape from federal custody will be prosecuted to the fullest extent under the law.”
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire prosecuted the case for the United States.
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Murderer of Deputy U.S. Marshal Sentenced to Life ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Ryan Schlesinger, 31, of Tucson, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Court Judge Raner C. Collins to life in prison for second-degree murder, plus consecutive sentences of 20 years for attempted murder and 50 years for discharging a firearm during the commission of a violent offense.
In November 2023, a federal jury convicted Schlesinger of second-degree murder of a federal officer, three counts of attempted murder of a federal officer, four counts of assault of a federal officer, and five counts of discharging a firearm during the commission of a violent offense.
On November 29, 2018, deputies with the United States Marshals’ Arizona Wanted Violent Offender Task Force attempted to serve a felony arrest warrant on Schlesinger for allegedly stalking a Tucson Police Department (TPD) sergeant. While the Task Force attempted to execute the arrest warrant, Schlesinger outfitted himself in body armor. Schlesinger refused to exit his residence and opened fire on the deputies who were outside his window. Deputy U.S. Marshal Chase White was shot twice in the upper torso and died a short time later.
Prior to the murder, Schlesinger had been in a yearlong dispute with the TPD. Schlesinger sent multiple threatening emails, went to a TPD officer’s parents’ home, and attempted to arrest a TPD sergeant. Despite being under multiple active injunctions against harassment, Schlesinger possessed three firearms in violation of those court-issued injunctions. Schlesinger sent a final threatening email to the TPD hours before the murder. After murdering Deputy White, Schlesinger surrendered to the TPD, wearing the body armor and a ballistic helmet.
Deputy White was 41 years old. He is survived by his wife and four children. He was also a lieutenant colonel with the United States Air Force Reserve. Deputy White was the first Deputy U.S. Marshal killed in the line of duty in Tucson in 66 years.
“The courage of survivors was on display this week in federal court,” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “I am grateful to the family of Deputy U.S. Marshal Chase White for sharing poignant memories of their wonderful son, husband and father; and I am mindful of the valor of the men and women of the Marshals Service.”
“This sentencing finalized the FBI’s efforts to hold Ryan Schlesinger accountable for his senseless act of violence. The diligence and fairness of the legal process has guaranteed Schlesinger will no longer be able to cause harm to law enforcement or members of the Tucson community," said Special Agent in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI’s Phoenix Field office. "The FBI will not waiver in its pursuit of justice no matter how long it takes."
“Deputy U.S. Marshal Chase White tragically lost his life in the line of duty while bravely safeguarding the community from a dangerous and violent individual,” said Acting U.S. Marshal Van Bayless. “Chase epitomizes the ideals of a dedicated Guardian and compassionate man who extended his help to those in need. His legacy will live on through the United States Marshals Service and his extraordinary family."
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah B. Houston and Jane L. Westby, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-18-02719-TUC-RCC
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-006_Schlesinger# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Moncks Corner Felon Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Kareem Kashif Jefferson, 34, of Moncks Corner, was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison after being convicted of being a felon in possession of firearms and for possession with intent to distribute marijuana, eutylone, and crack cocaine.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on Feb. 14, 2020, a Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office deputy was on patrol around 11 p.m. when the deputy stopped to assist what appeared to be a stranded driver on the side of the road with their vehicle. The deputy located a man, later identified as Jefferson, by the vehicle, which had two flat tires. The deputy could smell alcohol and marijuana and he noted signs of impairment in Jefferson’s behavior, such as slurred speech, swaying, and trying to jack up the vehicle, but the jack was not under the car or its frame. The deputy also saw an open container of alcohol inside the vehicle. Jefferson said he was going to drive to a church which was nearby, but the deputy instructed him that he could not drive. Jefferson began disregarding the deputy’s instructions and attempted to leave. During the exchange, Jefferson dropped his hands to his waistline area and attempted to manipulate a handgun in his pocket. The deputy could see the magazine, the bottom of the grip, and the magazine well of the gun. Jefferson then removed a gun from his pants and tossed it aside.
After Jefferson was arrested, deputies recovered the gun he discarded, a 9mm pistol. They also located additional guns in the vehicle, along with 223 grams of marijuana and a small amount of crack. Jefferson has previous felony convictions that prevent him from carrying a gun.
United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel sentenced Jefferson to 168 months imprisonment, to be followed by a six-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was investigated by the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Kittrell is prosecuting the case.###
Moline Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Moline man was sentenced January 18, 2024, to 25 years in federal prison for Producing, Possessing, and being in Receipt of Child Pornography.
According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Jason Richard Heider, 48, was responsible for producing and receiving child sexual abuse material. Heider pleaded guilty in July of 2022.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc. For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the resources tab.
Milwaukee Man Convicted of Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 19, 2024, a jury found defendant Samuel L. Spencer, who used the alias “Bin Laden,” guilty of four counts of Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud, or Coercion, and one count of Conspiracy to Engage in Sex Trafficking following a two-week trial in Milwaukee.
The evidence presented at trial established that between 2005 and 2020, Spencer was a street-level drug dealer who used crack cocaine and heroin, along with false promises of a romantic relationship, to lure female victims to earn money for him by performing commercial sex acts in southeastern Wisconsin, northern Illinois, and other midwestern states. The victims testified that Spencer took everything they earned, controlling them with severe physical violence, the threat of withholding drugs, isolation, and other forms of coercion to ensure they complied with his demands.
“The jury’s verdict in this case was the result of tireless work by federal, state, and local law enforcement as well as Mr. Spencer’s victims having the courage to give voice to the trauma they suffered,” said U.S. Attorney Haanstad. “January is Human Trafficking Awareness month, and this case serves as another example of the fact that sex trafficking and labor trafficking can happen anywhere. If you suspect that someone is being trafficked, please report it to law enforcement or call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. The hotline is staffed around the clock.”
Spencer faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and up to a maximum sentence of life in prison. Sentencing has been set for May 16, 2024, before Chief Judge Pamela Pepper.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, with the assistance of the Milwaukee Police Department, the Glendale Police Department, the Oak Creek Police Department, and the Franklin Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Erica J. Lounsberry and Julie F. Stewart prosecuted the case.
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Miami cryptocurrency exchanger pleads guilty to running unlicensed money transmitter businessRead the Press Release
MIAMI – The owner of a Miami-based digital currency exchange business pleaded guilty to operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1960.
Raul Rodriguez, aka raultiovigia, 43, of Miami, Florida, was in the business of converting cash into bitcoin and other digital currency in exchange for a fee. Rodriguez provided these services to the public through an online digital currency exchange platform known as “LocalBitcoins.com.”
According to his plea agreement, Rodriguez exchanged at least $5,047,462 in digital currency from 2016 through 2022; during the first two years of that period, he was the highest-volume trader of digital currency on the LocalBitcoins.com platform in the State of Florida. Rodriguez further admitted that his customers included an online narcotics trafficker and a professional money launderer, both of whom were previously prosecuted in the Southern District of Florida.
Rodriguez’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 2nd at 11:00 a.m. in Miami. He faces up to five years in federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Matthew D. Line of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Miami Field Office, announced the guilty plea.
IRS-CI Miami investigated the case with assistance from FBI, Miami Field Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Miami Field Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Browne is prosecuting it. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marx Calderon and Emily Stone are handling asset forfeiture.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 23-cr-20474.
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Mexican Mafia gang member heads back to prison for illegal firearmRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 40-year-old man has been sentenced to federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm while a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Alonso Guerrero Garcia pleaded guilty Nov. 3, 2023.
U.S. District Judge David S. Morales has now ordered Garcia to serve 120 months in prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that Garcia used the firearm to forcibly abduct two individuals at gunpoint before he was apprehended.
On Jun. 3, 2023, authorities encountered Garcia when they conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling the wrong way down a one-way street at a high rate of speed.
Garcia, a known Mexican Mafia gang member, was in the rear seat of the vehicle. During a search, authorities discovered a Springfield Armory Champion 9mm pistol with gold grips and Aztec markings under the driver’s seat of the vehicle. Authorities also discovered photographs of Garcia holding the distinctive firearm.
Further investigation revealed Garcia had been previously convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm in addition to convictions for aggravated assault and manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm per federal law.
Garcia will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Corpus Christi Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Marck and Liesel Roscher prosecuted the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. In May 2021, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced a new effort to reduce violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. Integral to that effort was the reinvigoration of PSN, a two-decade old, evidence-based and community-oriented program focused on reducing violent crime. The updated PSN approach, outlined in the department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime is guided by four key principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities and measuring the results of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.
Member of Violent Gang Pleads Guilty to Racketeering, Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man pleaded guilty yesterday in connection with his role in Cameron Street, a violent Boston gang.
Paulo Santos, a/k/a “Bucky,” 35, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise (commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy), possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for April 24, 2024.
According to court documents, Cameron Street is a violent gang based largely in the Dorchester section of Boston that uses violence and threats of violence to preserve, protect and expand its territory, promote a climate of fear and enhance its reputation. Cameron Street members possess, carry and use firearms to murder and assault gang rivals as well as protect narcotics and drug proceeds.
As part of his role in the gang Santos, and another Cameron Street member, assaulted and robbed a rival gang member outside the Dorchester District Court on Dec. 6, 2019. In a video posted on Snapchat later that day, Santos identified the victim as a Wendover gang member and encouraged his fellow Cameron Street member to attack the victim.
At the time of Santos’ arrest, approximately 900 grams of cocaine, 500 grams of marijuana, a loaded Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver and $15,597 in cash were seized from his stash house in Hingham.
Santos was previously convicted of unlawfully possessing a firearm in Suffolk County, for which he served a four-to-five-year state prison sentence.
The charge of RICO conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Pohl and Charles Dell’Anno of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.
Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Running Child Sexual Abuse Material WebsiteRead the Press Release
An Alabama man was sentenced yesterday to life in prison for his involvement with a website dedicated to the advertisement and distribution of images and videos depicting child sexual abuse.
According to court documents, William Michael Spearman, 58, of Madison, was the lead administrator of the website, which had been operating for many years. The website included a section devoted to the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers, a section devoted to images and videos depicting children being subjected to pain and torture, and a section devoted to avoiding detection by law enforcement, among others. As the lead administrator, Spearman managed numerous other “staff” members, directed them on how to help run the site, recommended other users for promotion, kept records of child sexual abuse material advertised and distributed over the site, presided over staff meetings, praised and scolded users, and counseled users and other managers about the functions and expectations of the website. Spearman also advertised and distributed over the website images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children.
On June 12, 2023, Spearman pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise. The following defendants have also been convicted and sentenced in the Southern District of Florida for their involvement with the same website:
Defendant
Residence
Case Status
Selwyn David Rosenstein
Boynton Beach, Florida
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography, five counts of advertisement of child pornography, and possession of child pornography.
Sentenced on Dec. 12, 2022, to 28 years in prison and ordered to pay $80,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.
Gregory Malcolm Good
Silver Springs, Nevada
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.
Sentenced on Aug. 22, 2023, to 25 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $93,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.
Robert Preston Boyles
Clarksville, Tennessee
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.
Sentenced on Aug. 15, 2023, to 23 years and four months in prison and ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.
Matthew Branden Garrell
Raleigh, North Carolina
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.
Sentenced on Aug. 1, 2023, to 20 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $158,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.
Joseph Addison Martin
Tahuya, Washington
Pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 2 in Ft. Pierce, Florida.
Joseph Robert Stewart
Milton, Washington
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 18 in Ft. Pierce, Florida.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit and Miami Field Office, West Palm Beach Resident Agency investigated the cases.
Trial Attorneys Kyle P. Reynolds and William G. Clayman of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Schiller for the Southern District of Florida prosecuted this case.
Substantial assistance for these cases was provided by FBI Field Offices and Resident Agencies in Huntsville, Alabama; Reno, Nevada; Clarksville, Tennessee; Raleigh, North Carolina; and Madison, Wisconsin; CEOS’s High Technology Investigative Unit; and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Northern District of Alabama, District of Nevada, Middle District of Tennessee, Eastern District of North Carolina, and Western District of Wisconsin.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
We encourage anyone who suspects or has information regarding trafficking of minors, sextortion, child pornography or any other means of child exploitation to immediately contact law enforcement. You can file a report on the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)'s website at www.cybertipline.com, call 1-800-843-5678, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), or call 877-4-HSI TIP.
Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Running Child Sexual Abuse Material WebsiteRead the Press Release
MIAMI – An Alabama man was sentenced yesterday, in Ft. Pierce, Florida, to life in prison for his involvement with a website dedicated to the advertisement and distribution of images and videos depicting child sexual abuse.
According to court documents, William Michael Spearman, 58, of Madison, was the lead administrator of the website, which had been operating for many years. The website included a section devoted to the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers, a section devoted to images and videos depicting children being subjected to pain and torture, and a section devoted to avoiding detection by law enforcement, among others. As the lead administrator, Spearman managed numerous other “staff” members, directed them on how to help run the site, recommended other users for promotion, kept records of child sexual abuse material advertised and distributed over the site, presided over staff meetings, praised and scolded users, and counseled users and other managers about the functions and expectations of the website. Spearman also advertised and distributed over the website images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children.
On June 12, Spearman pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise. The following defendants have also been convicted and sentenced in the Southern District of Florida for their involvement with the same website:
Defendant
Residence
Case Status
Selwyn David Rosenstein
Boynton Beach, Florida
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography, five counts of advertisement of child pornography, and possession of child pornography.
Sentenced on Dec. 12, 2022, to 28 years in prison and ordered to pay $80,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.
Gregory Malcolm Good
Silver Springs, Nevada
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.
Sentenced on Aug. 22, 2023, to 25 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $93,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.
Robert Preston Boyles
Clarksville, Tennessee
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.
Sentenced on Aug. 15, 2023, to 23 years and four months in prison and ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.
Matthew Branden Garrell
Raleigh, North Carolina
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.
Sentenced on Aug. 1, 2023, to 20 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $158,500 in restitution to victims of his offense.
Joseph Addison Martin
Tahuya, Washington
Pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 2, 2024, in Ft. Pierce, Florida.
Joseph Robert Stewart
Milton, Washington
Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 18, 2024, in Ft. Pierce, Florida.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit and Miami Field Office, West Palm Beach Resident Agency investigated the cases.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Schiller for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorneys Kyle P. Reynolds and William G. Clayman of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) prosecuted this case.
Substantial assistance for these cases was provided by FBI Field Offices and Resident Agencies in Huntsville, Alabama; Reno, Nevada; Clarksville, Tennessee; Raleigh, North Carolina; and Madison, Wisconsin; CEOS’s High Technology Investigative Unit; and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Northern District of Alabama, District of Nevada, Middle District of Tennessee, Eastern District of North Carolina, and Western District of Wisconsin.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
We encourage anyone who suspects or has information regarding trafficking of minors, sextortion, child pornography or any other means of child exploitation to immediately contact law enforcement. You can file a report on the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)'s website at www.cybertipline.com, call 1-800-843-5678, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), or call 877-4-HSI TIP.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 22-CR-80173.
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Man Found with Drugs, Guns, and Explosives Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Spokane, Wash. - On January 23, 2024, U.S. Senior District Judge Rosanna Malouf Peterson sentenced James Daniel Bacon, 35, of Colbert, Washington, to 140 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Grams of Actual Methamphetamine, to be followed by 5 years on supervised release. Bacon will serve an additional 12 months in federal prison for violating his supervised release conditions from an underlying 2011 case, for a total of 152 months of imprisonment.
According to court documents, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents developed information that Bacon was in possession of methamphetamine and heroin. Following his arrest, federal agents searched a storage unit that Bacon was using to store drugs and weapons. Agents found 2 pounds of methamphetamine, a body armor plate carrier and plates, a velcro “police” patch for the plate carrier, several weapons including an AR-15 style rifle with a large capacity magazine, a plastic tub with more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition, 5 pounds of C-4 plastic explosives, and handcuffs.
“Mr. Bacon was a repeat offender who continued to distribute poison in our neighborhoods. He also had access to weapons and military-grade explosives that he could use to harm others,” stated U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref. “I am thankful for our law enforcement partners whose efforts removed dangerous narcotics and weapons from our streets to build a safer and stronger community.”
“DEA’s primary mission is to protect Americans from those who would poison and harm our citizens,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Mr. Bacon clearly is a drug trafficker capable of great harm, not only through his drug distribution enterprise, but also his possession of weapons, body armor, police paraphernalia, and explosives. This is a dangerous person that the combined efforts of law enforcement partnered to take into custody. The sentence shows our unified resolve to mitigate these threats.”
“Mr. Bacon’s disregard for the safety of the community in which he distributed drugs resulted in his sentencing to prison, where he belongs.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “The danger he posed was greater than the illegal drugs he distributed, but also in his procurement of weapons and explosives which further aggravate the severity of his crimes. This case demonstrates the positive impact the FBI and our partners make when we work together to safeguard our communities.”
“We are thankful that DEA was able to stop Mr. Bacon when they did,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “Not only was he distributing drugs while possessing firearms, but it is also clear that he may have had further intentions to harm the community through the use of police paraphernalia and a significant amount of explosives. This sentence is clearly reflective of the harm he has, and could have, caused.”
This case was investigated by the DEA Spokane Task Force, DEA Coeur d’Alene Task Force, assisted by the ATF, FBI and the Spokane Police.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Cashman.
2:20-cr-0084-RMP
Local gang member imprisoned for trafficking over 900 grams of heroin and various narcoticsRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 28-year-old Corpus Christi man has been sentenced following his conviction of drug trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Arturo Bazan pleaded guilty Nov. 14, 2023.
U.S. District Judge David S. Morales has now ordered Arturo Bazan to serve 228 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court viewed evidence from the crime scene and reviewed Bazan’s gang activities on social media. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the seriousness of the crime and its negative impact on the community.
In 2023, authorities began investigating a local heroin distributor which ultimately led authorities to Bazan and his associates operating out of a Corpus Christi residence.
On Aug. 9, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Bazan’s residence, at which time they discovered over a kilogram of meth, three kilograms of cocaine, over 900 grams of heroin and more than $20,000. They also found other controlled substances such as alprazolam pills, Xanax and marijuana.
They also recovered multiple firearms throughout the residence, to include a Ruger 5.7 handgun and an Anderson Arms AM-15 in Bazan’s bedroom. Those two firearms were each loaded with a full magazine.
Further investigation revealed Bazan was a local gang member who distributed narcotics on both an individual and large-scale basis.
Bazan will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Corpus Christi Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Lamont prosecuted the case.
Lake County Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of A Firearm by A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Tyran Terrell Harris (24, Leesburg) has pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Harris faces up to 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set. A federal grand jury had indicted Harris on December 12, 2023.
According to the court records, Harris has multiple prior state felony convictions, including grand theft, tampering with a witness, and grand theft auto. On September 25, 2023, officers from the Leesburg Police Department observed Harris walking around an apartment complex with a loaded firearm. Knowing Harris was a convicted felon from previous interactions, the officers arrested him and took possession of the firearm. A record check showed the firearm had been reported stolen approximately two weeks earlier. Harris subsequently admitted to the officers that he knew he could not possess the firearm as a convicted felon.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Leesburg Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Kansas man sent to prison for counterfeiting moneyRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 57 months in prison for making counterfeit United States currency.
According to court documents, Joseph Bulis, 38, of Wichita pleaded guilty in October 2023, to one count of manufacturing counterfeit currency and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
In July 2022, law enforcement went to Bulis’ hotel room in Wichita where they discovered a printer and paraphernalia used to manufacture counterfeit currency. They also found $3,000 in counterfeit money in the forms of $100 and $20 bills. Bulis fled when law enforcement arrived. When he was later apprehended, he had a backpack containing drawing paper, uncut counterfeit bills, and cutting tools.
In a separate incident, Bulis was contacted by law enforcement during a traffic stop and found to have a gun in the vehicle. He is prohibited from having a firearm because of a prior felony conviction.
The U.S. Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lanny Welch and Katie Andrusak prosecuted the case.
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Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission Hold Trilateral Meeting with Competition Enforcers from Mexico and CanadaRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department participated in a trilateral meeting with enforcers from Mexico’s Federal Economic Competition Commission (COFECE), Canada’s Competition Bureau and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Discussions were held among Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division, Chair Lina M. Khan of the FTC, Canadian Commissioner of Competition Matthew Boswell and President Andrea Marván Saltiel of COFECE.
The meeting, which took place in Mexico City, included discussions on competition in the technology and platform sectors and the impact of competition on labor markets, as well as discussions on new enforcement tools and bringing a whole-of-government approach to competition law.
“The competition law agencies of Canada, Mexico and the United States share the common goal to preserve and protect fair and lawful competition,” said Assistant Attorney General Kanter. “I am grateful for the opportunity to meet with our fellow enforcers and discuss opportunities to promote competition and enhance enforcement in North America.”
“This annual trilateral with our enforcement partners lets us share expertise and learning, strengthening our work to promote fair competition and protect the American public from anticompetitive and monopolistic tactics,” said Chair Khan.
Assistant Attorney General Kanter of the Antitrust Division (far right) meets with Chair Lina M. Khan of the FTC, Canadian Commissioner of Competition Matthew Boswell and President Andrea Marván Saltiel of COFECE.The 1995 cooperation agreement between the United States and Canada, the 1999 agreement between the United States and Mexico and the 2001 agreement between Canada and Mexico laid the foundation for these meetings. The agreements commit the agencies to coordinating and cooperating with each other to ensure consistent and effective antitrust enforcement.
Tomorrow, Assistant Attorney General Kanter will deliver a keynote speech at an event hosted by COFECE commemorating the release of a special anniversary book reflecting on the development of competition policy in Mexico. The book includes essays from competition experts around the world and is being released in honor of the 10th anniversary of the agency and 30th anniversary of the passage of Mexico’s first competition law.
Jury Convicts Registered Sex Offender of Sexually Exploiting a MinorRead the Press Release
BENTON, Ill. – A federal jury convicted a registered sex offender in St. Clair County of sexually exploiting another minor.
Members of the jury found Dan R. Waeckerle, Jr., 44, of Swansea, guilty of soliciting an obscene visual depiction of a minor, transferring obscene matter to a minor, sexual exploitation of a minor and offense by a registered sex offender.
“I’m grateful for the law enforcement agencies who investigated this case and pursued justice for Waeckerle’s victim and prevented other children from his abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe.
According to court documents, Waeckerle had sexually explicit conversations with a minor via text message in July 2021. Evidence presented during the trial revealed Waeckerle sent the minor a nude image, requested sexually explicit images from the minor, and discussed meeting the minor for sex.
“We are thankful for the training and resources provided by our federal partners which have allowed our detectives to be extremely successful in investigating cases such as these,” said O’Fallon Police Captain Mike Mojzis. “We appreciate the hard work and dedication of our detectives in striving to seek justice for the victim.”
Waeckerle was previously convicted of aggravated sexual abuse against a minor in Hamilton County in 2010.
“The U.S. Secret Service remains committed to investigating and arresting individuals who sexually exploit children and transmit child sexual abuse material,” said Stephen S. Webster, Resident Agent in Charge of the Secret Service Springfield Resident Office. “We are proud of our partnerships with the federal, state, and local agencies who work collectively to investigate and prosecute crimes against minors. These predators cause significant and long-lasting damage, and we are dedicated to holding them accountable.”
Sexual exploitation of a minor carries a statutory minimum of 25 years’ imprisonment due to Waeckerle’s prior criminal history. Waeckerle’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on May 21, 2024, at the federal courthouse in Benton.
This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Secret Service Central and Southern Illinois Financial and Cyber Crimes Task Force, with members from the O’Fallon Police Department leading the investigation. Additional support was provided by the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Swansea Police Department and the Illinois State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ali Burns and Zoe Gross prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
Honduran National Indicted for Illegal Re-Entry of Removed AlienRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – HIBIS TURCIO-SANCHEZ, age 44, a native of Honduras, was indicted on January 19, 2024, for illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, TURCIO-SANCHEZ reentered the United States illegally after being previously deported on October 14, 2016. If convicted, TURCIO-SANCHEZ faces an enhanced sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment, up to 3 years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. TURCIO-SANCHEZ faces an enhanced sentence due to his 2016 felony conviction for assaulting a federal official.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Grants Man Charged with Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, announced that Stephen Jaymes Montano appeared in federal court on an indictment charging him with assault upon a federal officer inflicting bodily injury. Montano, 28, of Grants, will remain in temporary custody pending a detention hearing, which is scheduled for January 25, 2024.
According to the indictment, on Sept. 21, 2023, Montano intentionally assaulted John Doe, an officer and employee of the New Mexico Department of Corrections, while John Doe was assisting officers and employees of the United States Marshals Service in the performance of official duties. Montano allegedly inflicted bodily injury by throwing a bicycle at John Doe.
An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Montano faces 20 years in prison.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Bell is prosecuting the case.
View the Indictment# # #
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Forsyth Man Indicted for Springfield Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Forsyth, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for robbing a Springfield bank.
Richard Campbell, 59, was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield. Today’s indictment alleges that Campbell robbed Guaranty Bank, 1905 W. Kearney St., in Springfield, on Jan. 5, 2024.
The charge contained in this indictment is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the FBI.
Former Police Chief and Doctor Plead Guilty to Insider Trading Around Alexion Pharmaceuticals’ Acquisition of Portola PharmaceuticalsRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that SHAWN CRONIN and PAUL FELDMAN each pled guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn to one count of securities fraud in connection with their participation in an insider trading scheme surrounding the announcement of Alexion Pharmaceutical, Inc.’s acquisition of Portola Pharmaceuticals, Inc. CRONIN and FELDMAN were arrested in June 2023.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As a law enforcement leader, Cronin was sworn to uphold the law and was trusted to set an example for junior officers. And as a medical doctor, Feldman held a position of trust and respect in our society. Rather than live up to their posts, these men broke the rules to try to make a quick buck. Their convictions reflect my Office’s ongoing commitment to relentlessly rooting out corruption in our financial markets.”
According to the allegations in the Indictment and statements made in public court proceedings:
In 2020, CRONIN, FELDMAN, and others engaged in an insider trading scheme surrounding the announcement of Alexion’s acquisition of Portola. In April 2020, before that acquisition was publicly announced, CRONIN’s childhood friend, a then-vice president at Alexion, misappropriated material, non-public information (“MNPI”) about the acquisition and provided it to CRONIN so that CRONIN could profitably trade in securities.
In turn, CRONIN, who, at the time, was a police sergeant in Dighton, Massachusetts, and went on to become the police chief, provided another friend with the MNPI about Portola’s pending acquisition, both so that that friend could trade in advance of the acquisition and so that that friend would assist CRONIN in formulating trading strategies to maximize CRONIN’s trading profits.
The friend CRONIN tipped was a physician who went on to tip his friend and colleague, FELDMAN. FELDMAN, for his part, aggressively bought Portola call options and also tipped at least five additional individuals who traded on the tip.
After Alexion’s acquisition of Portola was publicly announced on the morning of May 5, 2020, causing Portola’s stock price to increase significantly, CRONIN, FELDMAN, and others who had purchased shares and options based on the inside information sold their securities, reaping millions of dollars of illegally obtained profits.
* * *
CRONIN, 44, of Dighton, Massachusetts, and FELDMAN, 49, of Poughquag, New York, each pled guilty to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. CRONIN and FELDMAN will be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gregory H. Woods on May 13, 2024.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mr. Williams also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which has filed a parallel civil action.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret Graham, Sarah Mortazavi, and Samuel P. Rothschild are in charge of the prosecution.
Former Chicopee Superintendent of Schools Admits to Lying About Threatening Messages She Sent to Chief of Police CandidateRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The Superintendent of the Chicopee Public Schools pleaded guilty today to making false statements in connection with her sending 99 threatening messages to a candidate for Chicopee Police Chief.
Lynn Clark, 53, of Belchertown, pleaded guilty to two counts of making false statements. U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni scheduled sentencing for April 30, 2024. Clark was arrested and charged by criminal complaint on April 6, 2022 and subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury on April 21, 2022.
In December 2021, the City of Chicopee was in the process of hiring a new Police Chief. On Dec. 3, 2021, law enforcement received a report that a candidate for the position was receiving threats intended to force the victim to withdraw their application for Chicopee Police Chief. In November 2021, after submitting their application for Police Chief, the victim received numerous text messages from unknown numbers containing threats to expose information that would cause the victim reputational harm. As a result, the victim withdrew their application and the City delayed the selection process.
The investigation revealed that a total of approximately 99 threatening messages were sent from fictitious phone numbers purchased through a mobile app. Phone and internet records revealed that these numbers were purchased by Clark and that these accounts sent each of the threatening messages.
On or about Dec. 6, 2021, Clark falsely claimed to be a victim and stated to agents that she received threatening text messages from unknown phone numbers, when, in fact she sent the messages to herself. Clark also falsely named other City employees who she felt may be responsible for sending the messages. On or about Feb. 7, 2022, Clark again falsely stated that she did not know who sent the messages in addition to denying that she had downloaded a mobile app with which she purchased the fictitious phone numbers to send the messages. Clark later admitted that she did indeed send the messages and downloaded the app.
The charges of making false statements each provide for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to one of supervised release and a fine of up to $10,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Neil L. Desroches of the Springfield Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
Former CFO Sentenced to Prison, Ordered to Pay Restitution for Embezzling More Than $3 Million from EmployerRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – An Arizona man has been sentenced to 24 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release and full restitution after embezzling more than $3 million from his employer, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, David Efrem Katz, 56, was the former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Durand and Associates (“D&A”), a property management company that specialized in servicing homeowner associations (“HOAs”). Between 2012 and 2017, Katz embezzled over $3 million from D&A and its client HOAs.
Katz worked for D&A from approximately 1998 to 2017, starting as an accountant and eventually becoming CFO. As CFO, Katz had authorization to open credit cards in D&A’s name and use those credit cards for business expenses. However, Katz was not authorized to charge personal expenses to the cards, take out loans on D&A’s behalf without the owner’s approval, or use funds belonging to D&A or its HOA clients to pay his personal expenses.
Beginning in at least 2012 and continuing into 2017, Katz embezzled over $3 million from D&A and its HOA clients. Katz, who as CFO of D&A was responsible for payroll, paid himself significantly more than his agreed upon salary. Between 2011 and 2017, Katz paid himself $6,500 every two weeks as a salary despite his base salary never being more than $47,500 annually.
Katz also reimbursed himself for personal expenses and business expenses he never actually incurred. Katz paid himself between approximately $6,000 and $10,000 in reimbursements every two weeks. He labeled these payments as miscellaneous earnings and reimbursements, “recovery loans,” bonuses, and commissions. Katz never loaned or invested money in D&A that he was entitled to “recover.” To the extent he earned bonuses and commissions, they were in amounts significantly less than what he paid himself. And although Katz incurred some legitimate business-related expenses, they were in amounts significantly less than what he reimbursed himself.
On June 26, 2023, Katz pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. He was sentenced today in U.S. District Court before Judge Katherine M. Menendez to one count of wire fraud.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew S. Ebert and Harry M. Jacobs prosecuted the case.
Football ticket scammer sent to prisonRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 49-year-old California resident has been sentenced for orchestrating a ticket scam across the United States that included a Texas A&M football game, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Derrick Langford pleaded guilty Aug. 24, 2023.
U.S. District Judge Charles Eskridge has now ordered Langford to serve 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by one year of supervised release.
“For years, Langford engaged in a multi-level fraud,” said Hamdani. “In doing so, he victimized identity theft victims, unsuspecting internet buyers and, ultimately, the venues, from football stadiums to music arenas, who bore the monetary loss. But the perceived anonymity of the internet did not protect him. His scheme unraveled thanks to the efforts of the 12th Man Foundation at Texas A&M University.
At the time of his plea, Langford admitted he used email to obtain stolen credit card information from victims across the United States. He used that data and false identities to buy tickets for sporting events, concerts and other entertainment venues nationwide. He then re-sold the tickets on internet-based resale sites like Ticket Liquidator.
One such event tied to Langford was the Texas A&M football game against Clemson Sept. 8, 2018. At the time of the plea, Langford admitted he created false buyer accounts and used stolen credit card numbers to buy tickets to that game and then resold the fraudulently purchased tickets on resale sites to unsuspecting buyers.
Texas A&M discovered the fraud and invalidated the tickets. However, some tickets had already been sold to unsuspecting buyers which caused the university to incur a 100% loss on the fraudulent tickets.
As the scheme continued, Langford received stolen credit card information and personal identifying information of more than 75 victims in one of his email accounts.
Langford was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas A&M University Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Quincy Ollison and Belinda Beek prosecuted the case.
Federal Jury Finds Hernando Man Guilty of Destruction of Evidence and Accessing with Intent to View Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Basilio Jim Diaz (64, Hernando County) guilty of destruction of evidence and accessing with the intent to view child sexual abuse material. Diaz faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison for each offense. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 17, 2024. Diaz has also agreed to forfeit his electronic devices which were used in the commission of the offense.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on March 9, 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Diaz’s home seeking evidence of child exploitation. When the FBI announced their presence, Diaz refused to exit his home. FBI SWAT members used an armored vehicle to break through the front door and obtain a visual inside the home. The SWAT agents also deployed two drones to better assess the situation inside the home. After nearly an hour, Diaz disabled one of the drones and while holding the second drone, the SWAT agents safely entered the home and detained Diaz. A search of the home revealed that Diaz had spent those 45 - 50 minutes destroying evidence. Despite Diaz’s efforts, the FBI used forensic tools to recover thousands of images and videos depicting the child sexual abuse and exploitation of children from Diaz’s laptop. Agents also recovered two child-like sex dolls.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, and Task Force Officers from the Tampa Police Department and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ilyssa M. Spergel and Ross D. Roberts.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Federal Hearings in Separate Middle Georgia Fraud CasesRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Several fraud cases under investigation in the Middle District of Georgia—the first involving family members who illegally wrote millions in checks to themselves from their employer’s operating account and the second involving a woman who attempted to collect more than $3.5 million in undue tax refunds by falsifying documents and making up a business—had hearings in federal court today.
Eva Rebecca Wells, 75, and Billy Lee Wells, Jr., 47, both of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud a financial institution before U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on Jan. 23. Both face a maximum of 30 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine. Mr. Wells also pleaded to an additional charge of making and subscribing a false return, which carries a maximum of three years in prison followed by one year of supervised release and a $100,000 fine. A sentencing date will be determined by the Court.
Lonnise Janelle Andrews, 45, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 51 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $331,758 in restitution to the IRS by U.S. District Marc T. Treadwell on Jan. 23. Andrews previously pleaded guilty to one count of making and subscribing a false return, one count of false claim for a tax credit and one count of false claim for a refund on Sept. 11, 2023. Andrews is not eligible for parole.
“These schemes are costly to all involved; our office will seek justice on behalf of those who are victims of fraud, whether it is small businesses or taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “People engaged in fraud are breaking federal law and will be held accountable for these crimes.”
“The hearings today serve as a warning to individuals who commit fraud upon others and the U.S. government that their criminal acts will come with consequences,” said Demetrius Hardeman, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation special agents and our law enforcement partners will continue investigating and bringing to justice those who participate in illicit schemes to enrich themselves.”
“These fraud scams, although not violent, are not victimless and can be devastating to local business and ruin livelihoods,” said Robert Gibbs, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Macon office. “The FBI is dedicated to working with our partners to hold anyone accountable who would steal from hard working and honest individuals, rather than put in the work themselves.”
According to court documents in the Wells case, Eva Wells was the Office Manager for Mid-Georgia Sales and was responsible for its finances, including issuing weekly payroll and making other payments on behalf of the business. Her son, Billy Lee Wells, Jr., was also employed at Mid-Georgia Sales, working in IT and sales. In Dec. 2008, Eva Wells began writing unauthorized checks to herself and her son from the company’s general operating fund, as opposed to the account used for payroll. When the theft was discovered, a full accounting was conducted. Between Dec. 31, 2008, and May 10, 2019, Eva Wells wrote a total of $3,404,772.22 in unauthorized checks to Billy Lee Wells, Jr. which were either cashed or deposited in his bank account. In addition to the checks made to Billy Lee Wells, Jr., Eva Wells also wrote unauthorized checks to herself which she cashed or deposited into her bank account.
For information about the Andrews case, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/macon-resident-pleads-guilty-35-million-tax-filing-scheme.
The Wells case was investigated by FBI, IRS and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. The Andrews case was investigated by IRS.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Howard is prosecuting both cases for the Government.
Federal Charges Filed After Traffic Stop Yields More Than 200 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man is facing federal charges today after he was caught transporting more than 200 pounds of methamphetamine on Interstate 5 near Tualatin, Oregon, announced the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
Juan Manuel Berrelleza Leyva, 22, a Mexican national residing in Portland, has been charged by criminal complaint with conspiring to possess and possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin.
According to court documents, on January 21, 2024, law enforcement observed the suspect’s vehicle traveling north between Salem, Oregon, and Tualatin. After briefly failing to yield to the investigators’ attempts to initiate a traffic stop, Leyva, the vehicle’s driver and sole occupant, pulled over.
After a narcotics K-9 alerted to the vehicle, investigators searched it and located more than 200 pounds of methamphetamine concealed in a duffle bag, suitcase, and trash bag. Investigators also located and seized just over two pounds of heroin. Leyva admitted to entering the United States approximately seven months prior and being responsible for picking up drug shipments in other states and transporting them to the Portland area.
Leyva made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.
This case is being investigated jointly by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Westside Interagency Narcotics Team (WIN). It is being prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
WIN is a Washington County, Oregon-based High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force that includes members from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Beaverton and Hillsboro Police Departments, Oregon National Guard Counter Drug Program, DEA, FBI, and HSI.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Federal Attorney Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Sexually Exploit Numerous ChildrenRead the Press Release
A former Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) attorney pleaded guilty today to conspiring to sexually exploit numerous children.
According to court documents, between January 2018 and October 2021, Mark Black, 50, of Arlington, Virginia, was a member of two online groups dedicated to exploiting children. The goal of the two groups was to locate prepubescent girls online and convince them to livestream themselves engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Black and his co-conspirators would covertly record this conduct and share the videos with each other.
In July 2019, Black induced a prepubescent minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct on a live-streaming application while screen-recording that activity. That same month, Black and a co-conspirator also groomed another prepubescent minor to engage in sexually explicit acts on a photo and video-sharing application. The co-conspirator surreptitiously hacked into that girl’s live-video feed and recorded the sexual acts before sending them to Black.
Black was formerly the Arlington Aquatic Club (AAC) board president.
Black pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to produce child pornography and one count of coercion and enticement. He is scheduled to be sentenced on April 30 and faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Aber for the Eastern District of Virginia, Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, and Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Shimon Richmond of the FDIC Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG) made the announcement.
The FBI and FDIC-OIG investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys McKenzie Hightower, Kaylynn Foulon, and James E. Burke IV of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Halper for the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Any individuals who believe they or someone they know may have been victimized by Black are encouraged to contact the FBI at 202-278-2000 and ask to speak to the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
FDIC Attorney Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Sexually Exploit Numerous ChildrenRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) attorney pleaded guilty today to conspiring to sexually exploit numerous children.
According to court documents, between January 2018 and October 2021, Mark Black, 50, of Arlington, was a member of two online groups dedicated to exploiting children. The goal of the two groups was to locate prepubescent girls online and convince them to livestream themselves engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Black and his co-conspirators would covertly record this conduct and share the videos with each other.
In July 2019, Black induced a prepubescent minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct on a live-streaming application while screen-recording that activity. That same month, Black and a co-conspirator also groomed another prepubescent minor to engage in sexually explicit acts on a photo and video-sharing application. The co-conspirator surreptitiously hacked into this girl’s live-video feed and recorded the sexual acts before sending them to Black.
Black was formerly the Arlington Aquatic Club (AAC) board president.
Black pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to produce child pornography and one count of coercion and enticement. He is scheduled to be sentenced on April 30 and faces a mandatory minimum term of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Nicole M. Argentieri, Acting Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Michael D. Nordwall, Assistant Director of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division; and Shimon Richmond, Assistant Inspector General for Investigations of the FDIC Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG), made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema accepted the plea.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Halper and Trial Attorneys McKenzie Hightower, Kaylynn Foulon, and James E. Burke IV of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:23-cr-146.
Any individuals who believe they or someone they know may have been victimized by Black are encouraged to contact the FBI at 202-278-2000 and ask to speak to the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
Drug trafficker who illegally possessed more than 20 guns – twelve purchased by a “straw buyer” -- pleads guiltyRead the Press Release
Seattle – a 32-year-old Federal Way man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to four federal felonies involving guns and drugs, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. De’ondre Lamontia Phillips, aka Deondre Lamontia McDougle, is half of a pair of defendants involved in a firearms straw purchasing scheme that involved the purchase of 100 firearms in a two-year period. Phillips pleaded guilty today to possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and two counts of illegal possession of firearms. Philips is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez on April 26, 2024.
According to records filed in the case, the investigation began in late January 2023, with the assault and attempted robbery of a woman in Rainier Valley. The victim was able to flee in her car. Police found a firearm in her vehicle that had been dropped by one of the assailants. A check of the firearm revealed it had been purchased by 31-year-old Kent resident Dion Jamar Cooper in December 2022. That recovery led the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) to check Cooper’s purchase history. Cooper had purchased 107 firearms since June 2021. On 24 different instances he purchased multiple firearms – sometimes four or more. Of the 107 firearms identified as being purchased in this scheme, 24 of the guns have been recovered and linked to crimes.
During March and April of 2023, agents surveilled Cooper as he made arrangements to purchase additional firearms. Agents identified De’ondre Lamontia Phillips as the person who drove Cooper to the gun shops where he purchased the firearms. Phillips is prohibited from purchasing and possessing firearms due to convictions for distribution of heroin (2014) and convictions for illegal firearms possession and two counts of assault (2009). Surveillance of the two revealed Cooper turning the firearms over to Phillips who stored them in his residence.
On April 12, 2023, investigators arrested Phillips and searched his apartment, his car, and his storage unit. They found distribution amounts of fentanyl pills and methamphetamine as well as drug packaging materials and scales. In all, Phillips possessed 23 firearms – most of them handguns – and some firearms that were privately manufactured with no serial numbers. Ten of the firearms had been purchased by co-defendant Cooper on the day of the search and arrest.
Possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is punishable by a mandatory minimum five years in prison to run consecutive to any sentence imposed on the other charges. Unlawful possession of firearms is punishable by up to fifteen years in prison.
Prosecutors have agreed to recommend no more than eight years in prison. Judge Martinez is not bound by the recommendation and is free to recommend any sentence allowed by law.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) and the Seattle Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Greenberg.
Drug Task Force Operation Leads to 19 ArrestsRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Susan T. Lehr announced that on January 23, 2024, an operation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Nebraska State Patrol led to the arrest of 19 people and the unsealing of at least nine indictments. Those arrested and a summary of their charges and the penalties include the following.
An indictment was unsealed charging Alejandro Ruiz (age 41), of California, Guadalupe Ramirez (38) of North Platte, Roberto Duran (33) of Brule, Michael Shawn Harrell (47) of Ogallala, Eduardo Gomez (33) of North Platte and Carl McKinney (37) from Kentucky, with conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine between January of 2021, and January of 2022. A conviction on that charge carries a possible penalty of not less than 10 years to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million; and a term of supervised release not less than five years. Ramirez, Gomez, and Harrell also face charges of possessing a firearm during and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. If convicted, they each face a term of imprisonment of five years to life, consecutive to the drug charge; a $250,000 fine and up to 5 years of supervised release. Harrell was also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. A conviction of that charge carries a penalty of not more than 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine and up to three years of supervised release.
An indictment was unsealed charging Jamie Hopkins (37), Michael Stroble (30); Joey Romero (36), and Luke Schwartz (30) all of North Platte, with conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) and distribution of meth between July 2022 through February of 2023. The penalties are not less than 10 years to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million; and a term of supervised release not less than five years.
An indictment was unsealed charging Jessica Binegar (37) of North Platte, John Hernandez (35) of Lincoln and Brad Leeper (46) of North Platte with distribution of 5 grams or more of meth (actual) between March and June of 2022. Leeper was also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The possible penalties for distribution are not less than five years, nor more than 40 years in prison; a fine of up to $5 million; and a term of supervised release following the prison term of not less than four years.
Wesley Kraft (36) of Lincoln, was charged with distribution of five grams or more of meth (actual) during April of 2023 and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Timothy Huisman (39) of North Platte, was charged with distribution of five grams or more of meth (actual) in February of 2023.
Shane Ross (46) of Ogallala, was charged with distribution of five grams or more of meth (actual) in July of 2022.
Richard Torres (44) of Brule, was charged with conspiracy and distribution of more than five grams of meth (actual) between December 2021 and August of 2022.
Timothy Maisner (62) of North Platte, with possession with intent to distribute of 50 grams of more of methamphetamine (actual) and distribution of methamphetamine during January and July of 2023.
Eddie Houpt (59) of North Platte, was charged with distribution of five grams or more of meth (actual) in June of 2022.
To report tips on drug trafficking, please contact the FBI at tips.fbi.gov or 402-492-8688 or the Nebraska Crime Stoppers tipline at 1-800-422-1494.
These cases were investigated by the CODE Task Force which is made up of law enforcement agencies throughout a 22-county area in west-central/southwest Nebraska and includes the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Nebraska State Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, North Platte Police Department, Lexington Police Department, and Army National Guard Counter Drug Unit. The investigation and arrests were also assisted by the U.S. Postal Service, Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, Ogallala Police Department, La Vista Police Department, the Tri-Cities Drug Enforcement Team (TRIDENT) Task Force, the Western Intelligence Narcotics Group (WING) Task Force, the Capitol Region Safe Streets Task Force (CRSSTF), the Lincoln/Lancaster County Metro Fugitive Task Force, the Lincoln and Keith County Attorney’s Offices, and Nebraska District 11 Probation Office.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF)
operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal
organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven,
multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at
https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
- Drug Kingpin Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Mexican-Origin Cocaine into Georgia
Dallas Business Owner Charged with Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
A Westlake man who owns several businesses, bars and nightclubs in the DFW area who allegedly hasn’t paid taxes since 1992 has been federally charged, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton.
Dhanesh Deoraj Ganesh was indicted Wednesday, January 17th on five counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. He was arrested on Friday and made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Rebecca Rutherford Monday.
According to the indictment, Mr. Ganesh, 62, allegedly concealed his ownership in his businesses by using nominee names, including his ex-wife, his brothers, and his sons. Mr. Ganesh did not have bank accounts in his personal name and did not have signatory authority on bank accounts opened in the names of the companies he controlled. Payments from these businesses were collected in check and cash form. The checks were cashed at check-cashing businesses and then used to purchase cashier’s checks in amounts under $3,000.
Mr. Ganesh has not filed a personal or business income tax return since 1992.
The scheme allegedly resulted in approximately $1.6 million in unpaid taxes.
In addition, Mr. Ganesh and others used some of the restaurants and bars to sell cocaine.
An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Mr. Ganesh is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison for each of the five counts of tax evasion, 20 years in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and 20 years in prison for conspiracy to launder monetary instruments.
IRS – Criminal Investigations’ Dallas Field Division conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Walters of the Northern District of Texas is prosecuting the case.
Current and Former Owners of Center City Philadelphia Pharmacy Agree to Pay over $4.6 Million to Resolve Civil Investigations of Improper Medicare and Medicaid BillingRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced today that Jai Shri Krishna LLC, the current owner of Pennmark Pharmacy in Philadelphia, and Pennmark Pharmacy Inc., the former owner of the pharmacy, have separately agreed to pay, in total, over $4.6 million to resolve the False Claims Act liability of Jai Shri Krishna and its pharmacist and the unjust enrichment liability of Pennmark Pharmacy Inc.
Jai Shri Krishna LLC has operated Pennmark Pharmacy on South Street in southwestern Center City since January 2018. During that time, Antim Patel, a member of the LLC, has been Pennmark Pharmacy’s principal pharmacist. Jai Shri Krishna LLC and Mr. Patel will jointly pay $3,955,173.79 to the federal government to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by billing Medicare and Medicaid for prescription medications that were not actually dispensed during the period from January 12, 2018, through September 30, 2020. These medications include but are not limited to Latuda, Sprycel, Metformin Hydrochloride, Truvada, Advair Diskus, Genvoya, Triumeq, Tremfya, Tivicay, Breo Ellipta, Anoro Ellipta, Spiriva Respimat, Januvia, Vanos 0.1% cream, Isentress, and Biktarvy. In some cases, such as for Metformin Hydrochloride and Vanos 0.1% cream, the government alleges that Jai Shri Krishna LLC billed Medicare for high-cost formulations of the medications while dispensing lower-cost formulations to beneficiaries.
As part of their resolution with the United States, Jai Shri Krishna LLC and Antim Patel have entered into an integrity agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General. The integrity agreement requires them to undertake substantial compliance obligations and to contract with an Independent Review Organization that will conduct third-party audits of their Medicare claims and drug inventory.
Pennmark Pharmacy Inc. has separately agreed to pay $700,530 to resolve allegations that it and its principal, Engin Celik, were unjustly enriched as a result of billing Medicare and Medicaid, during the period from June 17, 2015, through January 11, 2018, for prescription medications that were not actually dispensed. These medications include but are not limited to Symbicort, Aripiprazole, Ventolin HFA, Isentress, Sensipar, Advair Diskus, Prezista, Renvela, and Flovent HFA.
“Pharmacies and pharmacists are in a position to serve their communities as vital components of our medical system; they have a responsibility not to abuse their positions for profit,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Taxpayers expect that their dollars will be spent on medications needed by Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. The U.S. Attorney’s Office works every day to ensure that taxpayer dollars are not wasted on fraud and abuse.”
“Pharmacies are responsible for all claims they submit to Medicare and Medicaid,” said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Philadelphia Regional Office of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General. “HHS-OIG and the U.S. Attorney’s Office take allegations of health care fraud seriously and will work together to ensure taxpayer dollars are only spent on bona fide medical claims.”
The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General. It was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth L. Coyne and Rebecca S. Melley and Auditor George Niedzwicki.
Connecticut Man Charged with Drug Trafficking in Burlington, VermontRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Jahking Allah, also known as “Stop Sign,” 44, of Quaker Hill, Connecticut was arrested on Friday, January 19, 2024 and subsequently charged by federal criminal complaint with distribution of cocaine base. Allah’s initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle is scheduled for Wednesday, January 24 at 3:30 p.m.
According to court records, Allah sold cocaine base to a cooperating subject in Burlington on two dates in January 2024. Then, on January 19, law enforcement executed a search warrant at 195 St. Paul Street, Apartment A, where Allah was staying. Within the apartment, law enforcement found seven handguns, two of which had previously been reported stolen. Seven is among the largest number of pistols that the Burlington Police Department has ever recovered during a single search warrant execution. Also within the apartment were approximately 85 grams of suspected cocaine base, approximately 25 grams of suspected fentanyl, and multiple digital scales.
If convicted of the current charges, Allah faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines and the United States Code. The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charges in the complaint are merely accusations, and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Burlington Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Cate. Allah is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
Colorado Man Sentenced for Church Arson in Federal Hate Crime CaseRead the Press Release
A Colorado man was sentenced to 39 months in prison for a hate crime charge in connection with a fire that he set to a church in Loveland, Colorado, on Jan. 19, 2023. Darion Ray Sexton, 22, pleaded guilty to a federal hate crime charge on May 5, 2023.
“Places of worship are critical for our communities, and this office stands ready to protect them,” said U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan for the District of Colorado. “Religious freedom means being free to worship without fear. Our office will take every appropriate action to ensure that every Coloradan enjoys this essential freedom.”
“This defendant has now been held accountable for his deliberate attack on the church,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “No one should live in fear because of their religious beliefs. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute those who seek to destroy houses of worship and interfere with the fundamental right to practice religion freely.”
“This defendant admitted he set out to destroy this church, which was determined to be a federal hate crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark D. Michalek of the FBI Denver Field Office. “FBI Denver worked with the Loveland Police Department to bring this man to justice. Anyone who attacks a house of worship will get the full attention of the FBI. In addition to seeking justice for these crimes, the FBI remains committed to providing resources for potential victims, such as the event with faith leaders held in this county the day before the crime occurred.”
“Arson is not only destructive and deadly, but also undermines the sense of safety within places of worship,” said Special Agent in Charge Brent Beavers of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “We immediately committed all ATF resources to addressing the impact of this arson by deploying our certified fire investigator, an ATF Task Force Officer with their ATF trained accelerant detection canine and ATF Laboratory services to analyze fire debris and evidence. Early and continued collaboration with our local and federal partners ensured justice once again prevailed.”
According to court documents, Sexton pleaded guilty to intentionally setting fire to the church in the evening hours of Jan. 19, 2023. Sexton admitted that he set this fire by throwing two Molotov cocktails at the church — one at the front door and the other at the basement. Sexton further admitted that he was motivated to set this fire due to the religious character of the church and that he intended to destroy the church.
The FBI, ATF and the Loveland Police and Fire Departments conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan D. Fields for the District of Colorado and Trial Attorney Maura White of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case.
Colorado Man Sentenced for Church Arson in Federal Hate Crime CaseRead the Press Release
A Colorado man was sentenced today to 39 months in prison for a hate crime charge in connection with a fire that he set to a church in Loveland, Colorado, on Jan. 19, 2023. Darion Ray Sexton, 22, pleaded guilty to a federal hate crime charge on May 5, 2023.
“This defendant has now been held accountable for his deliberate attack on the church,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “No one should live in fear because of their religious beliefs. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute those who seek to destroy houses of worship and interfere with the fundamental right to practice religion freely.”
“Places of worship are critical for our communities, and this office stands ready to protect them,” said U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan for the District of Colorado. “Religious freedom means being free to worship without fear. Our office will take every appropriate action to ensure that every Coloradan enjoys this essential freedom.”
“This defendant admitted he set out to destroy this church, which was determined to be a federal hate crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark D. Michalek of the FBI Denver Field Office. “FBI Denver worked with the Loveland Police Department to bring this man to justice. Anyone who attacks a house of worship will get the full attention of the FBI. In addition to seeking justice for these crimes, the FBI remains committed to providing resources for potential victims, such as the event with faith leaders held in this county the day before the crime occurred.”
“Arson is not only destructive and deadly, but also undermines the sense of safety within places of worship,” said Special Agent in Charge Brent Beavers of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “We immediately committed all ATF resources to addressing the impact of this arson by deploying our certified fire investigator, an ATF Task Force Officer with their ATF trained accelerant detection canine and ATF Laboratory services to analyze fire debris and evidence. Early and continued collaboration with our local and federal partners ensured justice once again prevailed.”
According to court documents, Sexton pleaded guilty to intentionally setting fire to the church in the evening hours of Jan. 19, 2023. Sexton admitted that he set this fire by throwing two Molotov cocktails at the church — one at the front door and the other at the basement. Sexton further admitted that he was motivated to set this fire due to the religious character of the church and that he intended to destroy the church.
The FBI, ATF and the Loveland Police and Fire Departments conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan D. Fields for the District of Colorado and Trial Attorney Maura White of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case.
Chatham Man Sentenced for Insider Trading SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Chatham was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for trading on inside information about a Massachusetts semiconductor company’s planned acquisition of a California company.
Gregory Manning, 61, formerly of Needham, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs to two years of supervised release, with the first three months to be served in home detention. Manning was also ordered to pay a fine of $20,000. In October 2023, Manning pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud and one count of securities fraud. Manning was charged in January 2020 along with co-defendants John Younis and David Forte.
In or around June 2016, Forte ¬obtained material non-public information from his brother who was a senior executive at Analog Devices, Inc. (Analog), a Norwood-based semiconductor company, about Analog’s planned acquisition of Linear Technology Corp. (Linear), a semiconductor company based in Milpitas, Calif. Forte passed the information to Manning, who purchased 3,000 shares of Linear stock in the week leading up to the public announcement of the acquisition on July 26, 2016. After the deal was announced, Manning sold all the Linear shares he had purchased for a profit and later paid Forte a kickback in appreciation for Forte’s stock tip.
In June 2022, Younis was sentenced to two years of probation, with the first month served on home detention, after pleading guilty to trading in Linear securities based on the material non-public information Forte provided to him. In July 2023, Forte was convicted by a federal jury of one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud and one count of securities fraud. In November 2023, he was sentenced to one year of supervised release with the first six months to be served on home detention.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. The Securities & Exchange Commission provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David M. Holcomb and Leslie A. Wright of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Interfering with Flight Crew, Forcing Plane to be Diverted to KCIRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A California man pleaded guilty in federal court today after he was subdued by several passengers and flight attendants when he tried to open the exit door on an American Airlines flight en route to Washington, D.C., forcing the plane to land at Kansas City International Airport in Kansas City, Missouri.
Juan Remberto Rivas, 52, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to one count of interfering with flight crew members and flight attendants.
Rivas was a passenger aboard American Airlines flight 1775 traveling nonstop from Los Angeles, Calif., to Washington, D.C., which was diverted to Kansas City International Airport in Kansas City, Mo., on Feb. 13, 2022.
By pleading guilty today, Rivas admitted that he created a disturbance which knowingly intimidated a flight attendant of the aircraft. Rivas went to the front of the plane and was arguing with the flight attendant. Rivas grabbed some plastic silverware and placed the plastic silverware in his shirt sleeve to appear to create a shank. Rivas grabbed a small champagne bottle by the neck and attempted to break the bottle on the counter. Rivas then attempted to open an exit door by lifting the handle.
Another flight attendant grabbed a coffee pot and hit Rivas with it. Rivas was then restrained for the remainder of the flight.
Under federal statutes, Rivas is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by the FBI.
Burlington County Man Charged with Possessing Explosive DevicesRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Burlington County, New Jersey, man was charged with possessing four destructive devices, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Jeremy Giliberti, 52, of Mount Laurel, New Jersey, is charged by complaint with one count of possessing destructive devices. He is scheduled to appear this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Douglas E. Arpert in Trenton federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On July 26, 2023, Hamilton Township Police Division officers conducted a motor vehicle stop of Giliberti. During a subsequent search of Giliberti’s vehicle, one of the officers found a duffle bag on the front passenger-side floorboard which contained four pipe bombs. Two of the devices were encased in 5-inch steel pipes and two of the devices were encased in cardboard tubing wrapped in duct tape. All four of the devices contained numerous metal pellets, an explosive mixture, and a pyrotechnic fuse.
The possession of a destructive device charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller; members of the Hamilton Township Police Division, under the direction of Chief Kenneth R. DeBoskey; members of the New Jersey State Police Bomb Unit, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan; and members of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri, with the investigation leading to this arrest.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey Agnew of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Trenton.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
giliberti.complaint.pdfBronx Man Charged with Production, Distribution, and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and James Smith, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced the unsealing of a Complaint charging DERICK COLON with producing, distributing, and possessing child pornography. COLON was presented Monday, January 22 before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Derick Colon’s alleged conduct is horrific and deeply disturbing. Colon was entrusted to care for his daughter, but instead, as alleged, Colon violated that trust by filming himself performing heinous sex acts against her and other minors and distributing those videos through social media. Investigating and prosecuting those who sexually exploit children is of paramount importance to this Office, and we will work around the clock to protect the children in our community.”
FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Smith said: “The alleged actions of Derick Colon are depraved and beyond disturbing. Parents should nurture and protect a child, not subject them to extreme sexual exploitation and abuse. Colon now faces severe punishment for his alleged inexcusable crimes. The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force will continue to do whatever it takes to protect the most vulnerable members of society—our children—from predators, no matter who they are.”
According to the allegations in the Complaint:[1]
On or about January 19, 2024, COLON shared videos with another individual on a social networking application that allows users to exchange private messages and send photos and videos to others within the network. The videos depict COLON engaged in sexually explicit conduct with a minor who appears to be approximately six to eight years old (“Victim-1”).
On or about January 21, 2024, law enforcement officials executed a judicially authorized search warrant at a known residence of COLON. Upon entering the residence, law enforcement officials observed COLON sitting on the couch beside a girl who appeared to be approximately four years old (“Victim-2”). COLON stated that Victim-2 was his daughter.
Law enforcement officials seized COLON’s cellphone pursuant to the search warrant and discovered approximately 12 additional videos of COLON sexually abusing a minor who appears to be Victim-2. Following his arrest and after waiving his Miranda rights, COLON stated, in sum and substance, that he “messed up” and that he had sexually abused Victim-2.
* * *
COLON, 24, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with one count of production of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, and one count of distribution of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. COLON is further charged with possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
The minimum and maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge.
Mr. Williams praised the efforts of the FBI and the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”) for their outstanding work on this matter, particularly the FBI-NYPD New York Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. Mr. Williams also thanked the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for their assistance. He added that the investigation is ongoing.
Any individuals who believe they have information that may be relevant to this investigation should contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov.
The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Stone is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Bridgeport Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JEROND ROGERS, JR., 30, of Bridgeport, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 25, 2022, Rogers possessed a loaded Glock 26 semi-automatic pistol.
Rogers’ criminal history includes state felony convictions for sale of narcotics, criminal possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Rogers has been detained since his federal arrest on March 20, 2023.
Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for April 16, at which time Rogers faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and the Bridgeport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ross Weingarten and Karen L. Peck through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Bergen County Man Admits Possession with Intent to Distribute HeroinRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Bergen County, New Jersey, man today admitted possession of heroin with intent to distribute, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Dawan A. Brown, aka “DB,” 37, of Cliffside Park, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before Judge Brian R. Martinotti in Newark federal court to an information charging him with one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Brown admitted that on June 14, 2021, he possessed with intent to distribute a controlled substance containing heroin in Harrison, New Jersey. At the time of his arrest, law enforcement officers seized suspected drug proceeds and pieces of jewelry from Brown’s residence. As part of the plea agreement, Brown agreed to forfeit $436,616 – the proceeds from the narcotics trafficking.
The narcotics offense carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 40 years in prison, and a fine of $5 million. Sentencing is scheduled for June 12, 2024.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark; the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II; Harrison Police Department, under the direction of Chief Ronald Cuney; and Cliffside Park Police Department, under the direction of Chief Marc Marano, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert L. Frazer of the Organized Crime/Gangs Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Dong Joo Lee of the Narcotics/Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force Unit, in Newark.
brown.information.pdfBennington Man Charged with Possession of a BombRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office stated that Tyler Hayes, 41, of Bennington, Vermont, has been indicted for possession of a bomb that was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. A federal grand jury in Burlington issued the indictment, and Hayes had his initial appearance yesterday in Burlington. This afternoon, United States Magistrate Judge Doyle ordered Hayes detained pending trial.
According to court records, Hayes made the bomb himself and told acquaintances about the destruction it would cause if detonated. Hayes left the bomb in his former residence when he moved out in connection with eviction proceedings. Hayes took no apparent precautions to make sure the bomb did not fall into the wrong hands or detonate inadvertently.
The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charge in the indictment is an accusation only and that each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Hayes faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Any ultimate sentence will be determined by the Court and advised by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines and the United States Code.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory and collaborative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); the Bennington Police Department; and the Vermont State Police Bomb Squad.
The United States is represented in this matter by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corinne M. Smith. Hayes is represented by James Valente, Esq. and Assistant Federal Defender Barclay Johnson.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
Approximately 40 Individuals Arrested in Multi-State Drug Trafficking TakedownRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Approximately 40 individuals were arrested today pursuant to 10 federal indictments filed in the Southern District of Mississippi charging defendants from Lauderdale, Newton, Neshoba, Scott, and Jasper counties in Mississippi, as well as Mexico, California, Texas, and Alabama. The charges stem from a four-year federal investigation of multiple drug trafficking operations distributing methamphetamine, cocaine, and other illegal drugs.
The indictments charge various drug trafficking crimes, including, but not limited, to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to do so. Several defendants face mandatory minimum sentences because of the significant quantities of illegal drugs involved, and some defendants face enhanced penalties for crimes involving methamphetamine where minors were present, or for drug trafficking near schools. Additionally, some defendants have been charged with firearms-related crimes or using a telephone to threaten injury or death to another by means of an explosive device.
The following defendants were arrested today:
Tavia Armstrong, 32, of Meridian; Alyssia Boose, 32, of Newton; Billy Boose, 46, of Newton; Fred Campbell, 49, of Meridian; Jacoby Clayton, 29, of Meridian; Mario Cole, 37, of Meridian; Bobby Coleman, 35, of Union; George Collier, 46, of Pelahatchie; Christopher Evans, 47, of Union; Tabbgrinn Graham, 33, of Decatur; James Green, 52, of Meridian; Cassady Harris, 37, of Union; Yvette Herring, 45, of Riverside, CA; Dakota Holt, 32, of Meridian; Edward House, 46, of Meridian; Jeffery Jennings, 40, of Meridian; James Johnson, 50, of Louin; Cedric Jones, 52, of Houston, TX; Lajason Jones, 43, of Decatur; Markee Jones, 44, of Meridian; Nathan Kendricks, 46, of Meridian; Kevin King, 41, of Meridian; Todrian Laphand, 30, of Meridian; John Little, 31, of Meridian; Nicholas Massey, 35, of Decatur; Kenneth McCurdy, 43, of Forest; Jeffery Murrell, 54, of Newton; Johnny Patton, 42, of Quitman; Darius Powell, 35, of Meridian; Marcus Powell, 38, of Meridian; Raykeitdgrith Ricks, 41, of Lawrence; Znthony Ruffin, 38, of Toomsuba; Dustin Jamal Russell, 33, of Newton; Steven Savell, 48, of Union; Carlos Seals, 42, of Meridian; Brandon Slaughter, 31, Meridian; Jacorie Smith, 27, of Meridian; Curtis Spivey, 39 of Philadelphia; Billy Wilson, 52, of Cuba, AL; and Crisseta Woods, 46, of Union.
Additional defendants charged in the indictments have not yet been arrested.
Initial court appearances are scheduled to begin on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judges F. Keith Ball and LaKeysha Greer Isaac in U.S. District Court in Jackson.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi, Acting Special Agent in Charge Eric DeLaune of Homeland Security Investigations, Acting Special Agent in Charge Steve Hofer of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and U.S. Marshal Mark Shepherd.
The cases are being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, the East Mississippi Drug Task Force and Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Alabama 17th Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force, the Newton County Sheriff’s Department, and the Scott County Sheriff’s Department.
The following agencies also assisted in the investigation: U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Mississippi Bureau of Investigations, Neshoba County Sheriff’s Office, Philadelphia Police Department, Decatur Police Department, Union Police Department, Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, Mississippi Commercial Truck Enforcement Division, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Mississippi Alcoholic Beverage Control, and the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Carla J. Clark is prosecuting the cases. The Office of Enforcement Operations in the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division also provided assistance.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
22 January 2024
Wilmington Blood Gang Member Receives 84 Month Sentence for Possessing a “Ghost Gun” and Ammunition After Fleeing from PoliceRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Wilmington man was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. On September 6, 2023, Trevon Keoni Di’Jae Brown, age 24, pled guilty to the charge.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on November 18, 2022, the Wilmington Police Department attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by Brown. Brown attempted to evade the police by dangerously weaving through traffic, but eventually hit a parked car. The defendant then fled on foot but was quickly apprehended. Officers retraced the defendant’s path of escape and located a loaded 9mm privately made firearm (“ghost gun”) with a large capacity magazine with 25 rounds in it in the backyard of a residence. Ballistic testing revealed that the firearm was used in a shooting in Wilmington on June 12, 2022.
“This sentence is yet another example of how dangerous felons increasingly turn to untraceable ghost guns for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “These weapons in the wrong hands pose a significant threat to our communities and we will continue to fully enforce the law against those who break it.”
Privately made firearms or “ghost guns” are firearms that are made by a person other than a licensed manufacturer and do not have a serial number placed on the firearm by a license manufacturer at the time the firearm was produced.
Brown has multiple prior criminal convictions including, but not limited to, carrying a concealed weapon, resisting a public officer, carrying a concealed gun, and possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver cocaine. Brown was also validated as a member of the United Blood Nation by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction and by the Wilmington Police Department.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, the Wilmington Police Department’s Gun Crime Task Force, and the Wilmington Police Department investigated the case and Special Assistant United States Attorney William Van Trigt prosecuted the case. Van Trigt is a prosecutor with the New Hanover County District Attorney’s Office assigned to the United States Attorney’s Office to prosecute federal violent crimes and other criminal matters. This has been made possible by a grant funded by New Hanover County.
The conviction is a result of the ongoing Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) initiative which is a collaborative effort with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, working with the community, to identify and address the most significant drivers of violent crime. VCAP involves focused and strategic enforcement, and interagency coordination and intelligence-led policing.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:23-cr-00050BO-001.
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