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Monday 4 December 2023
Four Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Firearms Offenses in Bennington CountyRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont announced that Javon Calderon (also known as “Juju,”) of Holyoke, Massachusetts, Christopher Morgan (also known as “Mula,”) of Chicopee, Massachusetts, Shavonne Doucette of Bennington, Vermont, and Kyle Winnie also of Bennington, were indicted in the District of Vermont on November 29, 2023. The three-count indictment alleges that, between August and November of 2022, Calderon, Morgan, Doucette, and Winnie conspired to distribute fentanyl and cocaine; Calderon and Morgan brandished a firearm in connection with that drug trafficking conspiracy; and Doucette and Winnie made their residence in Bennington available for drug trafficking. Doucette and Winnie appeared in court this afternoon for their arraignments before Chief United States District Judge Geoffrey Crawford. Both Doucette and Winnie pleaded not guilty and were detained pending further proceedings. Calderon and Morgan will appear for arraignment later this month.
The charges against these defendants are accusations only, and they are each presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, each defendant would face a maximum possible penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. For brandishing a firearm in connection with the alleged drug trafficking conspiracy, Calderon and Morgan face a mandatory minimum penalty of 7 years in prison. The sentences, however, would be determined by the court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the governing sentencing statutes.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigative efforts of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the HSI Special Response Team, the Vermont State Police, the Bennington Police Department, the Bennington County Sheriff’s Department, the Rutland City Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
The United States is represented in this matter by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corinne Smith and Jon Ophardt. Javon Calderon is represented by Federal Public Defender Michael L. Desautels. Christopher Morgan is represented by Peter F. Langrock, Esq. Shavonne Doucette is represented by Brooks G. McArthur, Esq. Kyle Winnie is represented by Jordana M. Levine, Esq.
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.
Fort Myers Man Sentenced for Possessing Firearm and Ammunition as A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell today sentenced Deshon G. Walker (27, Fort Myers) to three years and one month in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Walker to forfeit the firearm and ammunition traceable to the offense. Walker had pleaded guilty on August 21, 2023.
According to court documents, on September 21, 2023, officers from the Fort Myers Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with Walker was the front seat passenger. Officers located a loaded Glock pistol under Walker’s seat. DNA analysis later linked Walker to the pistol. Walker had previously been convicted of a felony and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Fort Myers Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark R. Morgan.
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 out 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 first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Former U.S. Ambassador and National Security Council Official Charged with Secretly Acting as an Agent of the Cuban GovernmentRead the Press Release
Federal prosecutors have charged Victor Manuel Rocha, 73, of Miami, Florida, a former U.S. Department of State employee who served on the National Security Council from 1994 to 1995 and ultimately as U.S. Ambassador to Bolivia from 2000 to 2002, with committing multiple federal crimes by secretly acting for decades as an agent of the government of the Republic of Cuba.
“This action exposes one of the highest-reaching and longest-lasting infiltrations of the United States government by a foreign agent,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “We allege that for over 40 years, Victor Manuel Rocha served as an agent of the Cuban government and sought out and obtained positions within the United States government that would provide him with access to non-public information and the ability to affect U.S. foreign policy. Those who have the privilege of serving in the government of the United States are given an enormous amount of trust by the public we serve. To betray that trust by falsely pledging loyalty to the United States while serving a foreign power is a crime that will be met with the full force of the Justice Department.”
“Like all federal officials, U.S. diplomats swear an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. Acting as an agent for Cuba – a hostile foreign power – is a blatant violation of that oath and betrays the trust of the American people,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The FBI will continue to rigorously defend against foreign governments targeting America, and we will find and hold accountable anyone who violates their oath to the United States, no matter how long it takes.”
“For decades, Rocha allegedly worked as a covert agent for Cuba and abused his position of trust in the U.S. government to advance the interests of a foreign power,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “However long it might take, we will deliver justice to those who betray their solemn oaths to the American people.”
“The Southern District and our law enforcement partners stand ready to protect the United States from individuals who act unlawfully as agents of foreign governments,” said U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. “Individuals who violate federal law by engaging in clandestine activity for hostile foreign states, and by providing false information about those activities to the U.S. government, endanger American democracy. That is especially so for past or present employees of the United States who took an oath to uphold the U.S. Constitution, and for U.S. citizens who benefit from the freedoms and opportunities of this country. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners in South Florida, and elsewhere, will continue to vigorously enforce all federal laws.”
According to the complaint, beginning no later than approximately 1981, and continuing to the present, Rocha, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Colombia, secretly supported the Republic of Cuba and its clandestine intelligence-gathering mission against the United States by serving as a covert agent of Cuba’s General Directorate of Intelligence.
To further that role, according to the complaint, Rocha obtained employment in the U.S. Department of State between 1981 and 2002, in positions that provided him access to nonpublic information, including classified information, and the ability to affect U.S. foreign policy. After his State Department employment ended, Rocha engaged in other acts intended to support Cuba’s intelligence services. From in or around 2006 until in or around 2012, Rocha was an advisor to the Commander of the U.S. Southern Command, a joint command of the United States military whose area of responsibility includes Cuba.
The complaint alleges that Rocha kept his status as a Cuban agent secret in order to protect himself and others and to allow himself the opportunity to engage in additional clandestine activity. Rocha provided false and misleading information to the United States to maintain his secret mission; traveled outside the United States to meet with Cuban intelligence operatives; and made false and misleading statements to obtain travel documents.
According to the complaint, Rocha began his State Department career in 1981, rising through the ranks to serve in a variety of roles, including (1) from in or around February 1989 until in or around November 1991, as the First Secretary at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico; (2) from in or around November 1991 until in or around July 1994, as the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; (3) from in or around July 1994 until in or around July 1995, as a Department of State employee, as the Director of Inter-American Affairs on the U.S. National Security Council, with special responsibility for, among other things, Cuba; (4) from in or around July 1995 until in or around July 1997, as Deputy Principal Officer at the U.S. Interests Section in Havana, Cuba; (5) from in or around July 1997 until in or around November 1999, as Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina; and (6) from in or around November 1999 until in or around August 2002, as Ambassador to Bolivia at the U.S. Embassy in La Paz, Bolivia.
The complaint alleges that, in a series of meetings during 2022 and 2023, with an undercover agent from the FBI posing as a covert Cuban General Directorate of Intelligence representative, Rocha made repeated statements admitting his “decades” of work for Cuba, spanning “40 years.” When the undercover told Rocha he was “a covert representative here in Miami” whose mission was “to contact you, introduce myself as your new contact, and establish a new communication plan,” Rocha answered “Yes,” and proceeded to engage in a lengthy conversation during which he described and celebrated his activity as a Cuban intelligence agent. Throughout the meetings, Rocha behaved as a Cuban agent, consistently referring to the United States as “the enemy,” and using the term “we” to describe himself and Cuba. Rocha additionally praised Fidel Castro as the “Comandante,” and referred to his contacts in Cuban intelligence as his “Compañeros” (comrades) and to the Cuban intelligence services as the “Dirección.” Rocha described his work as a Cuban agent as “a grand slam.”
Rocha is charged with conspiring to act as an agent of a foreign government without prior notification to the Attorney General; acting as an agent of a foreign government without prior notification to the Attorney General; and with using a passport obtained by false statement. He is expected to make an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Miami today, Dec. 4.
The FBI Miami Field Office is investigating the case, with valuable contributions by the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service and the FBI’s Washington Field Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan D. Stratton and John C. Shipley of the Southern District of Florida, along with Trial Attorneys Heather M. Schmidt and Christine A. Bonomo of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Rocha complaintFormer U.S. Ambassador and National Security Council Official Charged with Secretly Acting as an Agent of the Cuban GovernmentRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Federal prosecutors have charged Victor Manuel Rocha, 73, of Miami, Florida, a former U.S. Department of State employee who served on the National Security Council from 1994 to 1995 and ultimately as U.S. Ambassador to Bolivia from 2000 to 2002, with committing multiple federal crimes by secretly acting for decades as an agent of the government of the Republic of Cuba.
“This action exposes one of the highest-reaching and longest-lasting infiltrations of the United States government by a foreign agent,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “We allege that for over 40 years, Victor Manuel Rocha served as an agent of the Cuban government and sought out and obtained positions within the United States government that would provide him with access to non-public information and the ability to affect U.S. foreign policy. Those who have the privilege of serving in the government of the United States are given an enormous amount of trust by the public we serve. To betray that trust by falsely pledging loyalty to the United States while serving a foreign power is a crime that will be met with the full force of the Justice Department.”
“The Southern District and our law enforcement partners stand ready to protect the United States from individuals who act unlawfully as agents of foreign governments,” said U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. “Individuals who violate federal law by engaging in clandestine activity for hostile foreign states, and by providing false information about those activities to the U.S. government, endanger American democracy. That is especially so for past or present employees of the United States who took an oath to uphold the U.S. Constitution, and for U.S. citizens who benefit from the freedoms and opportunities of this country. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners in South Florida, and elsewhere, will continue to vigorously enforce all federal laws.”
“Like all federal officials, U.S. diplomats swear an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. Acting as an agent for Cuba – a hostile foreign power – is a blatant violation of that oath and betrays the trust of the American people,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The FBI will continue to rigorously defend against foreign governments targeting America, and we will find and hold accountable anyone who violates their oath to the United States, no matter how long it takes.”
“For decades, Rocha allegedly worked as a covert agent for Cuba and abused his position of trust in the U.S. government to advance the interests of a foreign power,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “However long it might take, we will deliver justice to those who betray their solemn oaths to the American people.”
According to the complaint, beginning no later than approximately 1981, and continuing to the present, Rocha, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Colombia, secretly supported the Republic of Cuba and its clandestine intelligence-gathering mission against the United States by serving as a covert agent of Cuba’s General Directorate of Intelligence.
To further that role, according to the complaint, Rocha obtained employment in the U.S. Department of State between 1981 and 2002, in positions that provided him access to nonpublic information, including classified information, and the ability to affect U.S. foreign policy. After his State Department employment ended, Rocha engaged in other acts intended to support Cuba’s intelligence services. From in or around 2006 until in or around 2012, Rocha was an advisor to the Commander of the U.S. Southern Command, a joint command of the United States military whose area of responsibility includes Cuba.
The complaint alleges that Rocha kept his status as a Cuban agent secret in order to protect himself and others and to allow himself the opportunity to engage in additional clandestine activity. Rocha provided false and misleading information to the United States to maintain his secret mission; traveled outside the United States to meet with Cuban intelligence operatives; and made false and misleading statements to obtain travel documents.
According to the complaint, Rocha began his State Department career in 1981, rising through the ranks to serve in a variety of roles, including (1) from in or around February 1989 until in or around November 1991, as the First Secretary at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico; (2) from in or around November 1991 until in or around July 1994, as the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; (3) from in or around July 1994 until in or around July 1995, as a Department of State employee, as the Director of Inter-American Affairs on the U.S. National Security Council, with special responsibility for, among other things, Cuba; (4) from in or around July 1995 until in or around July 1997, as Deputy Principal Officer at the U.S. Interests Section in Havana, Cuba; (5) from in or around July 1997 until in or around November 1999, as Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina; and (6) from in or around November 1999 until in or around August 2002, as Ambassador to Bolivia at the U.S. Embassy in La Paz, Bolivia.
The complaint alleges that, in a series of meetings during 2022 and 2023, with an undercover agent from the FBI posing as a covert Cuban General Directorate of Intelligence representative, Rocha made repeated statements admitting his “decades” of work for Cuba, spanning “40 years.” When the undercover told Rocha he was “a covert representative here in Miami” whose mission was “to contact you, introduce myself as your new contact, and establish a new communication plan,” Rocha answered “Yes,” and proceeded to engage in a lengthy conversation during which he described and celebrated his activity as a Cuban intelligence agent. Throughout the meetings, Rocha behaved as a Cuban agent, consistently referring to the United States as “the enemy,” and using the term “we” to describe himself and Cuba. Rocha additionally praised Fidel Castro as the “Comandante,” and referred to his contacts in Cuban intelligence as his “Compañeros” (comrades) and to the Cuban intelligence services as the “Dirección.” Rocha described his work as a Cuban agent as “a grand slam.”
Rocha is charged with conspiring to act as an agent of a foreign government without prior notification to the Attorney General; acting as an agent of a foreign government without prior notification to the Attorney General; and with using a passport obtained by false statement. He is expected to make an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Miami today, Dec. 4.
The FBI Miami Field Office is investigating the case, with valuable contributions by the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service and the FBI’s Washington Field Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan D. Stratton and John C. Shipley of the Southern District of Florida, along with Trial Attorneys Heather M. Schmidt and Christine A. Bonomo of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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-mj-04368.
23-MJ-4368-TORRES###
Former Shreveport, Louisiana Medical Practitioner Sentenced to 36 MonthsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, LA – Larry Clyde Daniels, 65, of Keithville, Louisiana, was sentenced on November 29, 2023, for distribution of controlled substances outside the bounds of professional medical practice to 36 months followed by three years of supervised release and a $20,000.00 fine by United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown.
On December 16, 2020, Larry Clyde Daniels, 65, of Keithville, Louisiana, was charged in an 82-count Indictment for violations of Distribution of Controlled Substances—buprenorphine, a Schedule III controlled substance, Klonopin, a Schedule IV controlled substance, and Adderall, a Schedule I controlled substance—outside the bounds of professional medical practices.
Daniels pled guilty to Count 44 and on November 29, 2023, Daniels was sentenced by Judge Elizabeth E. Foote to 36 months in federal prison, three years supervised release, and a $20,000.00 fine for distribution of controlled substances outside the bounds of professional medical practice.
“It is no secret that many Americans suffer from opioid addiction and the effects can be fatal,” said U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. Physicians, by way of their oath, undertake a great responsibility to exhaust all efforts to ensure that those who are prescribed opioids actually need them. This defendant admittedly failed to do so by over prescribing these powerful drugs. We hope this sentence sends a powerful message to physicians who consider engaging in such conduct.”
From 2016 through 2017, Daniels was a medical practitioner practicing within the Western District of Louisiana. Daniels received a Drug Addiction Treatment Act waiver in 2007 and was authorized to treat patients with opioid addictions. Daniels worked one night a week from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the Warren Medical Multi-Care Clinic. On September 12, 2017, an undercover DEA agent acting as a patient, paid $325.00 in cash for the first visit with Daniels and was requested to come back the following evening to see Daniels.
The next day the undercover agent met with Daniels for approximately eight minutes. After this meeting, Daniels prescribed the undercover agent buprenorphine with a starting dose in excess of what is required without documenting a rationale for such starting dosage in the undercover’s patient file. Also, Daniels noted that the undercover relayed a history of recreational drug abuse but failed to discuss with the undercover the negative results of his drug test and failed to perform a physical examination. As a result, Daniels’ actions violated acceptable medical practices and acceptable medical practices within the State of Louisiana.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tennille M. Gilreath and Allison Duncan prosecuted the case.
Former Private Prisoner Transport Officer Pleads Guilty to Federal Civil Rights Offense for Sexually Assaulting Female Pretrial DetaineeRead 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 FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, announced that Marquet Johnson, a former private prisoner transport officer, pleaded guilty to violating a female pretrial detainee’s civil rights by sexually assaulting her during a prisoner transport. Johnson, 44, of West Memphis, Arkansas, additionally admitted to previously violating multiple other female pretrial detainees’ civil rights by sexually assaulting them during prisoner transports.
According to the plea agreement, at the time of the offense, Johnson worked as a prisoner transport officer for Inmate Services Corporation (ISC). As a prisoner transport officer, Johnson performed the government function of picking up individuals who were arrested on out-of-state warrants and transporting those individuals back to the jurisdictions that issued the warrants. On Nov. 4, 2019, Johnson and his transport partner picked up the victim, a female pretrial detainee, from a jail in Santa Fe, New Mexico, to transport her to Delta County, Colorado.
That same day, while still in New Mexico, Johnson’s transport partner stopped the transport van at a gas station. As soon as Johnson’s transport partner walked away from the van, Johnson ordered the victim to move to the bench row in the back of the transport van, climbed into the back of the van, removed the victim’s ankle restraints and loosened her handcuffs. The victim told Johnson that she was unsure what was going on but said that she did not want “to do this.” In response, Johnson pulled out a dangerous weapon, and, resting the weapon on his lap, told the victim that he wanted her to cooperate with him, “otherwise, it was going to get ugly.”
Johnson then ordered the victim to partially remove her clothing and lay down on her back. The victim did so but again told Johnson she did not want to do this. In response, Johnson held the weapon against the victim’s cheek while raping her. Johnson admitted that the victim did not consent to any of the sexual conduct, and his conduct included the use of a dangerous weapon and aggravated sexual abuse.
Johnson further admitted that this was not the first female pretrial detainee who he sexually assaulted during an ISC prisoner transport. Johnson admitted that in July 2019, he transported another female pretrial detainee from Spencer, Indiana to San Marcos, Texas. While en route to Texas, during a stop at ISC headquarters in West Memphis, Arkansas, Johnson forced the detainee to perform oral sex on him. Johnson admitted that this victim also did not consent to any of the sexual conduct and that his misconduct included aggravated sexual abuse.
Finally, Johnson admitted that in August 2019, he transported yet another female pretrial detainee from Baker County, Oregon to Warrensburg, Missouri. While in Missouri, Johnson stopped the transport van at a hotel, where he proceeded to push her to rape her. A short time later Johnson brought the female detainee back outside to the transport van and, after resuming the transport, forced the female detainee to perform oral sex on him. Johnson admitted that this victim also did not consent to any of the sexual conduct and that his misconduct included aggravated sexual abuse and kidnapping.
“Sexual assaults carried out by law enforcement officials at any stage of the criminal justice process, including in the transport of detainees held in custody, have no place in our society,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This egregious conduct violates federal law, and the Justice Department will continue to resolutely seek justice for the survivors of these heinous crimes.
“Every person has a basic right to dignity and respect,” said U.S. Attorney Uballez. “And nobody, no matter the crime of which they are being accused, deserves to be raped. When jailers fail their duty to those in their charge, they will join them in custody.”
“Law enforcement officers and other officials receive certain powers from the government so they can defend the rights of the people and prevent wrongdoing.” said SAC Raul Bujanda. “When individuals working in an official capacity violate the trust of their communities by abusing that power, they undermine the hard work of all officials. The despicable actions perpetuated by Johnson, against those he was entrusted to protect, have no place in society. When you break the trust you’re given as a member of law enforcement and ultimately break the law, there are consequences. Today’s conviction of Johnson is a resounding reminder that the FBI is committed to restoring trust in law enforcement by holding those who abuse their privileges and abandon their responsibilities accountable. I commend the hard work of our Agents, our law enforcement partners with the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office, and the New Mexico US Attorney’s Office with helping to bring justice to the victims in this case and holding Johnson to account for his crimes.”
Pursuant to the plea agreement, Johnson faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, to be followed by up to five years of supervised release. In addition, Johnson must pay restitution to the victim and register as a sex offender.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sherriff’s Office. Trial Attorney Laura Gilson of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Brawley for the District of New Mexico are prosecuting the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Eastern District of Arkansas and Western District of Missouri.
View Indictment View Plea Agreement###
23-277
Former Private Prisoner Transport Officer Pleads Guilty to Federal Civil Rights Offense and Admits to Sexually Assaulting Multiple Female Pretrial DetaineesRead the Press Release
A former private prisoner transport officer, Marquet Johnson, 44, pleaded guilty today to violating the civil rights of multiple female pretrial detainees by sexually assaulting them during prisoner transports.
“Sexual assaults carried out by law enforcement officials at any stage of the criminal justice process, including in the transport of detainees held in custody, have no place in our society,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This egregious conduct violates federal civil rights law, and the Justice Department will continue to resolutely seek justice for the survivors of these heinous crimes.”
“Every person has a basic right to dignity and respect,” said U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez for the District of New Mexico. “And nobody, no matter the crime of which they are being accused, deserves to be raped. When jailers fail their duty to those in their charge, they will join them in custody.”
“Law enforcement officers and other officials receive certain powers from the government so they can defend the rights of the people and prevent wrongdoing,” said Special Agent in Charge Raul Bujanda of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office. “When individuals working in an official capacity violate the trust of their communities by abusing that power, they undermine the hard work of all officials. The despicable actions perpetuated by Johnson, against those he was entrusted to protect, have no place in society. When you break the trust, you’re given as a member of law enforcement and ultimately break the law, there are consequences. Today’s plea is a resounding reminder that the FBI is committed to restoring trust in law enforcement by holding those who abuse their privileges and abandon their responsibilities accountable. I commend the hard work of our agents, our law enforcement partners with the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office and the U.S Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico with helping to bring justice to the victims in this case and holding Johnson to account for his crimes.”
According to the plea agreement, at the time of the offense, Johnson worked as a prisoner transport officer for Inmate Services Corporation (ISC). As a prisoner transport officer, Johnson performed the government function of picking up individuals who were arrested on out-of-state warrants and transporting those individuals back to the jurisdictions that issued the warrants. On Nov. 4, 2019, Johnson and his transport partner picked up the victim, a female pretrial detainee, from a jail in Santa Fe, New Mexico, to transport her to Delta County, Colorado.
That same day, while still in New Mexico, Johnson’s transport partner stopped the transport van at a gas station. As soon as Johnson’s transport partner walked away from the van, Johnson ordered the victim to move to the bench row in the back of the transport van, climbed into the back of the van, removed the victim’s ankle restraints and loosened her handcuffs. The victim told Johnson that she was unsure what was going on but said that she did not want “to do this.” In response, Johnson pulled out a dangerous weapon, and, resting the weapon on his lap, told the victim that he wanted her to cooperate with him, “otherwise, it was going to get ugly.”
Johnson then ordered the victim to partially remove her clothing and lay down on her back. The victim did so but again told Johnson she did not want to do this. In response, Johnson held the weapon against the victim’s cheek while raping her. Johnson admitted that the victim did not consent to any of the sexual conduct, and his conduct included the use of a dangerous weapon and aggravated sexual abuse.
Johnson further admitted that this was not the first female pretrial detainee he sexually assaulted during an ISC prisoner transport. Johnson admitted that in July 2019, he transported another female pretrial detainee from Spencer, Indiana to San Marcos, Texas. While en route to Texas, during a stop at ISC headquarters in West Memphis, Arkansas, Johnson forced the detainee to perform oral sex on him. Johnson admitted that this victim also did not consent to any of the sexual conduct and that his misconduct included aggravated sexual abuse.
Finally, Johnson admitted that in August 2019, he transported yet another female pretrial detainee from Baker County, Oregon to Warrensburg, Missouri. While in Missouri, Johnson stopped the transport van at a hotel, where he raped her. A short time later Johnson brought the female detainee back outside to the transport van and, after resuming the transport, forced the female detainee to perform oral sex on him. Johnson admitted that this victim also did not consent to any of the sexual conduct and that his misconduct included aggravated sexual abuse and kidnapping.
A sentencing hearing will be set on a later date. Pursuant to the plea agreement, Johnson faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, to be followed by up to five years of supervised release. In addition, Johnson must pay restitution and, upon release, adhere to state and federal sex offender registration requirements.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sherriff’s Office.
Trial Attorney Laura Gilson of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Brawley for the District of New Mexico are prosecuting the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Eastern District of Arkansas and Western District of Missouri.
Former Milford Teacher Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former Milford second grade teacher pleaded guilty today in federal court in Worcester to possessing child pornography.
Vincent Kiejzo, 36, pleaded guilty today to one count of possession of child pornography. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman scheduled sentencing for April 4, 2024. Kiejzo was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in September 2020 and subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2020. He remains in custody.
During a search of Kiejzo’s Milford home in September 2020, a USB drive plugged into a television in Kiejzo’s bedroom was located and found to contain links to websites dedicated to the sexual exploitation of minors. The USB drive also contained well as over 6,000 images of child pornography including images that involved infants.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, five years and up to lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $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.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of the Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. The Milford Police Department assisted with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Noto of the Worcester Office is prosecuting 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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Former Federal Correctional Officer Pleads Guilty to Fourteen Counts of Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Katrina Denise McCoy (41, Minneola) has pleaded guilty to 14 counts of wire fraud. For each count, McCoy faces a maximum of 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. McCoy has also agreed to forfeit $39,570 – representing the proceeds of the offense. McCoy was indicted on July 11, 2023. Her sentencing hearing has not yet been set.
According to court records, McCoy is a former correctional officer with the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Between March 27, 2019, and February 23, 2021, McCoy submitted false disability claims with fictitious supporting documentation. McCoy created the supporting documentation on BOP letterhead and affixed the names of her supervisor and a medical professional without their knowledge or permission. As a result of her fraudulent scheme, McCoy caused 14 wire transfers to be deposited into her bank account totaling $39,570.
This case was investigated by the Florida Department of Financial Services’ Division of Investigative and Forensic Services - Bureau of Insurance Fraud and the Department of Justice – Office of the Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.
Former FBI Agent Trainee Pleads Guilty to Insider Trading SchemeRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today the guilty plea of SETH MARKIN in connection with his participation in a scheme to trade in stock of Pandion Therapeutics (“Pandion”) based on inside information that he misappropriated from his then-girlfriend, who was an attorney at a major law firm assigned to work on the acquisition of Pandion by Merck & Co. (“Merck”). MARKIN was arrested in July 2022 and pled guilty to securities fraud based on insider trading before U.S. District Judge Edgardo Ramos.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Seth Markin, who had been accepted into the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a new agent trainee, chose to act as if the law did not apply to him when he misappropriated confidential information, traded based on that information, and tipped several friends and family members, resulting in millions of dollars of illegally obtained trading profits. Markin knew his actions were wrong, deleted evidence of his crimes, and lied to try to cover up his scheme. No one is above the law, and this Office’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the financial markets remains a priority.”
As alleged in the Indictment, other public court documents, and statements made during court proceedings:
In early 2021, SETH MARKIN and BRANDON WONG together made more than $1.4 million in illegal profits by trading in stock based on inside information that MARKIN stole from his then-girlfriend, who was at the time an attorney at a major law firm in Washington D.C. (the “Law Firm Associate”). At the time, MARKIN had been accepted into the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) as a new agent trainee, and WONG was a systems analyst at an education company. In February 2021, MARKIN secretly looked through the Law Firm Associate’s confidential work documents, without her permission, and learned that, in a matter of weeks, Merck, a publicly traded pharmaceutical company, was going to acquire Pandion, a publicly traded biotechnology company, for approximately three times the value of Pandion’s share price. MARKIN immediately purchased Pandion stock on the basis of this material non-public information and also told several family members and friends to purchase Pandion’s stock, causing WONG, another friend, and several family members to do so, including Family Member-1, Family Member-2, Family Member-3, Family Member-4, and Friend-1. In text messages, MARKIN assured WONG that he was “not uncertain” that when the “news drop[ped]” about Pandion, the price would “EXPLODE” and they would earn “triple gains.”
WONG purchased hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of Pandion shares based on the material non-public information he received from MARKIN. In addition to his purchases of Pandion stock, WONG told at least seven other people to purchase Pandion shares, causing some of the people he tipped to purchase tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of Pandion stock, including Family Member-5, Friend-2, Friend-3, Friend-4, Friend-5, Friend-6, and Friend-7.
In total, MARKIN and WONG together caused at least 20 people to trade in Pandion stock based on the material non-public information that MARKIN misappropriated from his girlfriend, resulting in millions of dollars of illegally obtained trading profits. To conceal their illegal insider trading scheme, MARKIN and WONG used an encrypted messaging application and deleted many of their text messages with each other. They also agreed on a cover story that they could provide to law enforcement, namely, that if they were asked how they anticipated Pandion’s stock price increase, they could say they “read it on Stocktwit,” in reference to a social media platform for sharing stock ideas, and falsely say that the news was “publicly being announced there.”
After Merck’s acquisition of Pandion was announced publicly, and the Pandion stockholdings of MARKIN and WONG, and those whom they tipped, significantly increased in value, the defendants sold their shares of Pandion for significant profits. With their illegal profits, the defendants and their tippees purchased luxury items and bought gifts for each other. For example, WONG purchased for MARKIN a Rolex watch valued at approximately $40,000, a trip to Hawaii, and a meal at a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in New York that cost more than $1,000. WONG also purchased a home in Florida.
Thereafter, MARKIN lied in order to hide his illegal insider trading. In or about June 2021, after MARKIN and the Law Firm Associate had ended their relationship, and as MARKIN was preparing to begin training as a new agent at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, the Law Firm Associate called MARKIN to ask why MARKIN’s name had come up in an inquiry by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority into trading in Pandion stock. In response, MARKIN lied to the Law Firm Associate and falsely claimed that he did not trade in Pandion stock.
MARKIN subsequently took steps to further conceal his criminal activity. On November 18, 2021, Markin lied to FBI agents when he was interviewed about his Pandion trading. That day, Special Agents from the FBI interviewed MARKIN in connection with an investigation they told him was being conducted by law enforcement in the Southern District of New York relating to insider trading in Pandion stock. During the interview, MARKIN adhered to the fake cover story he and WONG had concocted and falsely told the agents (i) that he learned about Pandion on StockTwits, (ii) that he purchased the stock because of a recent earnings report and a new board member addition, and (iii) that he did not know that his former girlfriend worked on the Pandion transaction.
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MARKIN, 32, of Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania, pled guilty to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum term of 20 years in prison.
WONG, 40, of New York, New York, pled guilty on April 10, 2023, to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum term of 20 years in prison.
BRIAN WONG, 45, of Secaucus, New Jersey, pled guilty on November 10, 2022, to being an accessory after the fact to conspiracy to commit securities fraud and tender offer fraud, which carries a maximum term of two and a half years in prison, and was sentenced on April 12, 2023, to three years’ probation with three months’ home confinement and forfeiture in the amount of $403,375.75.
JONATHAN BECKER, 34, of Weehawken, New Jersey, pled guilty on September 20, 2023, to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum term of 20 years in prison.
The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge. MARKIN will be sentenced by Judge Ramos on March 13, 2024; WONG will be sentenced by Judge Ramos on January 26, 2024; and BECKER will be sentenced by Judge Ramos on December 19, 2023.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General. Mr. Williams also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which has filed parallel civil actions.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kiersten A. Fletcher, Nicolas Roos, and Negar Tekeei are in charge of the prosecution.
Former Enfield Resident Sentenced to 28 Months in Prison for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that OCTAVIO RAZON-MEJIA, also known as “Pachas,” 37, a citizen of Mexico last residing in Enfield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 28 months of imprisonment for trafficking cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2021, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force began investigating a drug trafficking organization, with ties to a Mexican drug cartel, operating in the area of Enfield, Connecticut, and Springfield, Massachusetts. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases and seizures of narcotics, revealed that Sergio Horta-Molina, of Suffield, arranged the shipment of cocaine and other narcotics to Connecticut, and then distributed the drugs to others, including Razon-Mejia who, in turn, sold the drugs to street-level traffickers and drug customers.
Razon-Mejia has been detained since his arrest on May 5, 2022. On August 8, 2023, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
Razon-Mejia faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
Horta-Molina pleaded guilty and, on June 6, 2023, he was sentenced to 94 months of imprisonment for both the offense and for violating the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal narcotics trafficking conviction.
This investigation has been conducted by the DEA’s Hartford Task Force and the Enfield Police Department. The 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.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney A. Reed Durham through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Former Employee of Beaver County Health Care Facility Pleads Guilty to Federal Hate Crime Charges Related to Assaults Against Disabled ResidentsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to federal hate crime charges, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
Tyler Smith, 32, of New Brighton, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy, and one count of violating the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan.
According to admissions made during Smith’s plea hearing, he and co-defendant Zachary Dinell were employees of an in-patient health care facility located in New Brighton, Pennsylvania. Residents of the facility suffered from a range of severe physical, intellectual, and emotional disabilities, and required assistance with all activities of daily life, including bathing, using the bathroom, oral hygiene, feeding, and dressing. As members of the facility’s Direct Care Staff, Smith admitted that he and Dinell were responsible for providing this daily assistance to residents.
From approximately June 2016 to September 2017, Smith further admitted that he and Dinell engaged in a conspiracy to commit hate crimes against residents of the facility because of the residents’ actual or perceived disabilities. Smith and Dinell carried out assaults in a variety of ways, including by punching and kicking residents, rubbing liquid irritants in their eyes, spraying liquid irritants in their eyes and mouths, and in one instance removing a resident’s compression stocking in a manner intended to inflict pain. Several of these assaults were recorded on Dinell’s cell phone. In one instance, Smith admitted jumping on top of a 13-year-old minor, while the child was lying prone on his bed, and while Dinell filmed the incident on his cellular phone. Smith further acknowledged that immediately after recording the video, Dinell texted the video to him.
As part of the conspiracy, Smith also acknowledged that he and Dinell exchanged text messages in which they expressed their animus toward the disabled residents, shared photographs and videos of residents, described their assaults, and encouraged each other’s continued abuse of residents.
Smith further admitted that he and Dinell were able to avoid detection by, among other things, exploiting their one-on-one access to residents of the facility and the fact that the victims were non-verbal and could not report the defendants’ abuse. Due to their physical disabilities, the residents also were not able to defend themselves against the assaults.
The maximum penalty for the conspiracy charge is a term of imprisonment of five years and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for the hate crime charge is a term of imprisonment of ten years and a $250,000 fine.
As part of his plea agreement, and subject to the approval of Judge Ranjan, Smith has agreed to a term of imprisonment of not less than 60 months and not more than 120 months. Zachary Dinell previously pleaded guilty to all charges and was sentenced on January 26, 2023, to 17 years’ imprisonment, followed by three years’ supervised release.
Assistant United States Attorneys Carolyn J. Bloch and Brendan J. McKenna are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
Former Correctional Officer Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Prison for Sexual Abuse of Two Female InmatesRead the Press Release
OAKLAND - Former federal correctional officer John Bellhouse was sentenced today to 63 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release and ordered to pay $25,500 for his sexually abusive conduct against two female victims who were serving prison sentences at Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Dublin. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers.
Bellhouse, 40, formerly of Pleasanton, Calif., was initially charged with sexual abuse of an inmate on Feb. 17, 2022. A federal grand jury issued a superseding indictment on Sept. 29, 2022, charging Bellhouse with two counts of sexual abuse of a ward and three counts of abusive sexual contact that occurred between December 2019 and December 2020. A jury convicted Bellhouse of all counts.
“John Bellhouse exploited his position of trust at the Federal Bureau of Prisons by sexually abusing multiple women in his custody – and today he has been held to account,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “The sentence of imprisonment imposed today is the latest example of the Justice Department’s continuing work to address the egregious misconduct that took place at FCI Dublin and prioritize the eradication of sexual assault from our prison system.”
“This defendant’s conduct was a disturbing deviation from the expectations and requirements of all federal correctional officers,” said U.S. Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey for the Northern District of California. “Bellhouse violated his oath and abused the power given to him, all to victimize the people he was supposed to protect. This sentence makes clear that the sexual abuse of inmates by guards will not be tolerated.”
“While today’s sentencing cannot undo the horrific abuse that Bellhouse’s victims endured, it sends a clear message that BOP employees who abuse inmates in their custody and care will be brought to justice. Our investigation of sexual abuse at FCI Dublin remains ongoing, and we will continue to aggressively pursue justice for victims of sexual abuse at the hands of BOP employees,” said Department of Justice Inspector General Michael E. Horowitz.
“The horrendous sexual abuse committed by convicted offender John Bellhouse is cruel and despicable,” said FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate. “As a federal corrections officer, Bellhouse sexually abused inmates under his care and attempted to cover-up his crimes. These violations are inexcusable breaches of the trust and authority granted to government officials. This sentencing is a reminder that the FBI and our partners will relentlessly pursue those who physically harm others and hold them accountable.”
“John Bellhouse has been held accountable for his abhorrent actions, preying upon vulnerable individuals in his custody,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert K. Tripp of the San Francisco Division. “Our investigation continues. We will find justice for victims of these heinous crimes.”
Bellhouse was employed as a correctional officer at the FCI Dublin, California, an all-female low security federal correctional institution. Trial evidence showed that beginning December 2019 through October 2020 Bellhouse sexually abused and committed abusive sexual contact against a victim incarcerated and serving a prison sentence at FCI Dublin under Bellhouse’s custodial, supervisory, and disciplinary authority. Bellhouse engaged in oral sex with the victim in the prison Safety Warehouse and Safety Office and touched the victim’s vagina and breasts in the prison Safety Office, according to the trial evidence.
Evidence presented at trial also demonstrated Bellhouse committed abusive sexual contact against a second victim between October and December of 2020. Trial evidence showed that the acts occurred in the Safety Office at the FCI Dublin Camp.
The trial evidence further showed that Bellhouse sexually abused another inmate in 2020 and 2021 when he reached through a window in her cell and grabbed her breast, and on another occasion put his finger in her vagina without her consent while she was in her cell after showering.
In a memorandum filed in connection with Bellhouse’s sentencing, the government provided additional information regarding Bellhouse’s criminal conduct while he was a correctional officer. In the memorandum, the government argued that in addition to the three women who testified at trial about Bellhouse’s sexual abuse of them, Bellhouse also abused other women. Further, the government’s memorandum describes how Bellhouse used his ability to access everyday items such as Starbucks coffee, yarn, jewelry, and cleaning supplies, to get his victims both to acquiesce in the abuse and to keep them quiet about his conduct. For example, according to the memorandum, Bellhouse would provide items to coax compliance with his demands. Because these items were considered contraband at FCI Dublin, mere possession of them exposed inmates to potential punishments such as solitary confinement and loss of good time credits.
Bellhouse was convicted of two counts of sexual abuse of a ward, and three counts of abusive sexual conduct.
Judge Gonzalez Rogers ordered Bellhouse to surrender on or before Feb. 2, 2024, to begin serving his sentence. In addition, Judge Gonzalez Rogers scheduled a hearing for Feb. 1, 2024, to determine issues regarding restitution.
The Department of Justice’s Office of Inspector General and the FBI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Molly Priedeman and Andrew Paulson prosecuted the case with the assistance of Madeline Wachs, Sara Slattery, Leeya Kekona, and Kay Konopaske.
Federal Prisoner Charged with Escape Pleads Not Guilty at ArraignmentRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A recently convicted felon charged with escaping the Bibb County Jail on Oct. 16 pleaded not guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles Weigle today during a brief arraignment at the U.S. Courthouse in Macon.
Johnifer Dernard Barnwell aka “Whoop” aka “Malixe,” 37, of Macon, is charged by indictment with one count of escape from custody. Co-defendant Janecia Green, 30, of Macon, is charged by indictment with one count of aiding and abetting Barnwell’s escape from custody and one count of assisting escape of a person committed to custody. Each charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. Barnwell remains in federal custody as ordered by the Court.
According to the indictment, Barnwell was being held in the Bibb County Jail on behalf of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) after he was convicted by a federal jury on Oct. 2 of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine and heroin; and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and cocaine base for which Barnwell faces a maximum sentence of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine. A sentencing date has not been scheduled by the Court. In the indictment, Barnwell is alleged to have escaped the custody of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of Green.
Green had her initial appearance in Macon on Nov. 15 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles Weigle of the U.S. Court for the Middle District of Georgia. On Nov. 21, Green had a detention hearing where she was ordered to remain in federal custody pending trial.
The case is being investigated by the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts New Albany Felon for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on November 21, 2023, charging a New Albany, Indiana man with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Demetrus Forrest II, also known as Demetrius Forrest, 22, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On November 15, 2023, Forrest possessed a Glock, model 17c, 9-millimeter handgun. Forrest was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On December 9, 2022, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Forrest was convicted of fraudulent use of a credit card under $10,000, receiving stolen property under $10,000, theft by unlawful taking from a vehicle $500 or more but under $10,000 (2 counts), theft by unlawful taking – firearm, and receiving stolen property (firearm).
The defendant made his initial court appearance last week, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. The defendant remains detained pending trial. If convicted, Forrest faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and the LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl is prosecuting the case.
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.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Felon for Federal Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on October 18, 2023, charging a local man with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Dashawn Billingslea, 18, was charged with one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. On June 21, 2023, Billingslea possessed a Karri’s Guns, Model KG 15, multi-caliber rifle and a Glock, Model 22, .40 caliber handgun. Billingslea was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offense. On June 12, 2023, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Billingslea was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree.
The defendant made his initial court appearance last week, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. The defendant remains detained pending trial. If convicted, Billingslea faces a minimum sentence of 5 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and the LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl is prosecuting the case.
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.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Federal Court Shuts Down South Florida Tax PreparersRead the Press Release
A federal court in the Southern District of Florida on Dec. 1 permanently enjoined a Miami tax return preparer and his businesses from preparing federal income tax returns, training others how to prepare tax returns or operating any tax return preparation business in the future.
The court also ordered Javier Campos and the tax preparation businesses he operates to pay $500,000 in ill-gotten gains to the United States. Campos consented to the permanent injunction and disgorgement order. Five employees of the tax preparer’s businesses consented to an injunction from preparing tax returns for two years.
The civil complaint alleges that Campos owns or controls JBC Tax Services LLC, WK Tax Services Inc., Cutler Bay Tax Services Inc., N.L.T.S. Inc. (doing business as Naranja Lakes Tax Services Inc.) and Tax Services Group Corp. According to the complaint, Campos and the other defendants prepared returns for customers that claimed various false or fabricated deductions and credits, including fabricated residential energy credits, fictitious deductions and credits for education expenses, false COVID-19 sick and family leave credits and bogus deductions for personal property rentals, attorney’s fees for unlawful discrimination claims and reforestation amortization and expenses. The complaint also alleges that Campos acted as a “ghost” preparer, meaning that he did not sign the returns he prepared as required by law, and trained outside clients and tax preparers how to fraudulently inflate customers’ tax refunds through Tax Services Group.
Today’s permanent injunction against Campos and his businesses – to which Campos, JBC Tax Services, WK Tax Services, Cutler Bay Tax Services, Naranja Lakes Tax Services and Tax Services Group consented – forever bars them from any involvement in the preparation of federal tax returns. They must immediately close and cease all operations at any office location, including the Miami offices located at 19485-B S. Dixie Highway and 13630 SW 120th St., Suite 228, and the Homestead office located at 27393 S. Dixie Highway.
The injunction against the five employee defendants – David DePablo, Krystallee Gonzalez, Alvaro Jauregui, Katya Rojas and Patricia Vanegas – bars them from any involvement in the preparation of federal tax returns for two years. The injunction also requires that they successfully complete the IRS’s Annual Filing Season Program training course and provide proof of completion before they may prepare returns for others.
Deputy Assistant Attorney General David A. Hubbert of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.
Attorneys from the Justice Department’s Tax Division prosecuted the case.
Return preparer fraud is one of the IRS’s Dirty Dozen Tax Scams and taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant against unscrupulous tax preparers. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. The IRS also offers 10 tips to avoid tax season fraud and ways to safeguard their personal information.
In the past decade, the Justice Department’s Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
ecf_no._37_campos.pdf ecf_no._38_campos.pdfExembajador de Estados Unidos y exfuncionario del Consejo de Seguridad Nacional acusado de actuar en secreto como agente del gobierno cubanoRead the Press Release
Fiscales federales acusaron a Víctor Manuel Rocha, de 73 años de edad, de Miami (Florida), antiguo empleado del Departamento de Estado de Estados Unidos que participó en el Consejo de Seguridad Nacional de 1994 a 1995 y, posteriormente fungió como embajador de Estados Unidos en Bolivia de 2000 a 2002, de haber cometido múltiples delitos federales actuando clandestinamente durante décadas como agente del Gobierno de la República de Cuba.
“Esta medida expone una de las infiltraciones de mayor nivel y duración en el Gobierno de Estados Unidos por parte de un agente extranjero”, indicó el fiscal general Merrick B. Garland. “Alegamos que, durante más de 40 años, Víctor Manuel Rocha actuó como agente del gobierno cubano y buscó y obtuvo puestos dentro del Gobierno de Estados Unidos que le proporcionaban acceso a información no pública y la posibilidad de afectar la política exterior estadounidense. Quienes tienen el privilegio de prestar servicio en el Gobierno de Estados Unidos son depositarios de una inmensa confianza por parte del público a cuyo servicio se encuentran. Traicionar esa confianza prometiendo falsamente lealtad a Estados Unidos mientras se atienden los intereses de una potencia extranjera constituye un delito al que el Departamento de Justicia responderá de manera implacable”.
“Como todos los funcionarios federales, los diplomáticos estadounidenses prestan juramento de apoyar y defender la Constitución de Estados Unidos. Actuar como agente para Cuba, una potencia extranjera hostil, constituye una violación flagrante de dicho juramento y traiciona la confianza del pueblo estadounidense”, manifestó el director del FBI, Christopher Wray. “El FBI seguirá actuando en firme defensa ante gobiernos extranjeros que dirijan sus acciones contra Estados Unidos, e identificaremos y nos aseguraremos de que rindan cuentas todos aquellos que violen su juramento a Estados Unidos, sin importar cuánto tiempo tome”.
“Durante décadas, Rocha presuntamente trabajó como agente encubierto para Cuba y abusó de su posición de confianza en el Gobierno de Estados Unidos para promover los intereses de una potencia extranjera”, explicó el fiscal general adjunto Matthew G. Olsen de la División de Seguridad Nacional del Departamento de Justicia. “Por más tiempo que tome, impartiremos justicia contra quienes traicionen sus juramentos solemnes al pueblo estadounidense”.
“El Distrito Sur y nuestros socios de aplicación de la ley estamos preparados para proteger a Estados Unidos de personas que actúen ilegalmente como agentes de gobiernos extranjeros”, manifestó el fiscal federal Markenzy Lapointe para el Distrito Sur de Florida. “Las personas que violan la ley federal al participar en actividades clandestinas para Estados extranjeros hostiles, y proporcionan información falsa sobre esas actividades al Gobierno de Estados Unidos, ponen en peligro la democracia estadounidense. Eso se aplica particularmente a empleados anteriores o actuales de Estados Unidos que juraron defender la Constitución de Estados Unidos y a los ciudadanos estadounidenses que se benefician de las libertades y oportunidades de este país. La Oficina del Fiscal Federal de Estados Unidos y sus socios de aplicación de la ley en el sur de la Florida, así como en otros lugares, continuarán aplicando enérgicamente todas las leyes federales”.
Según la acusación, a partir de aproximadamente el año 1981, y hasta el presente, Rocha, ciudadano estadounidense naturalizado originario de Colombia, apoyó en forma secreta a la República de Cuba y su misión clandestina de reunir inteligencia contra Estados Unidos actuando como agente encubierto de la Dirección General de Inteligencia de Cuba.
Para llevar a cabo ese papel, según se indica en la demanda, Rocha obtuvo empleo en el Departamento de Estado de Estados Unidos entre 1981 y 2002, en puestos que le proporcionaron acceso a información no pública, incluida información clasificada, y la posibilidad de afectar la política exterior de Estados Unidos. Después de concluir su empleo en el Departamento de Estado, Rocha cometió otros actos destinados a prestar apoyo a los servicios de inteligencia de Cuba. Desde alrededor del año 2006 hasta alrededor de 2012, Rocha fue asesor del comandante del Comando Sur de Estados Unidos, un comando conjunto de las fuerzas militares de Estados Unidos cuya área de responsabilidad incluye a Cuba.
La acusación sostiene que Rocha mantuvo en secreto su condición de agente cubano para protegerse a sí mismo y a otros y poder participar en otras actividades clandestinas. Rocha proporcionó información falsa y engañosa a Estados Unidos para mantener secreta su misión; viajó fuera de Estados Unidos para reunirse con agentes de inteligencia cubanos; y efectuó declaraciones falsas y engañosas para obtener documentos de viaje.
Según se indica en la acusación, Rocha comenzó su carrera en el Departamento de Estado en 1981, y fue ascendiendo de rango desempeñando una variedad de funciones, que incluyeron (1) desde alrededor de febrero de 1989 hasta alrededor de noviembre de 1991, fue primer secretario de la embajada de Estados Unidos en la Ciudad de México en México; (2) desde alrededor de noviembre de 1991 hasta alrededor de julio de 1994, como ministro consejero en la embajada de Estados Unidos en Santo Domingo, República Dominicana; (3) desde alrededor de julio de 1994 hasta alrededor de julio de 1995, como empleado del Departamento de Estado, en la función de Director para Asuntos Interamericanos en el Consejo de Seguridad Nacional de Estados Unidos, con responsabilidad especial respecto a Cuba, entre otras cosas; (4) desde alrededor de julio de 1995 hasta alrededor de julio de 1997, como funcionario viceprincipal de la Sección de Intereses de Estados Unidos en La Habana, Cuba; (5) desde alrededor de julio de 1997 hasta alrededor de noviembre de 1999, como ministro consejero de la embajada de Estados Unidos en Buenos Aires, Argentina; y (6) desde alrededor de noviembre de 1999 hasta alrededor de agosto de 2002, como embajador de Estados Unidos ante Bolivia en la embajada de Estados Unidos en La Paz, Bolivia.
La acusación alega que, en una serie de reuniones sostenidas durante 2022 y 2023 con un agente encubierto del FBI que simulaba ser representante encubierto de la Dirección General de Inteligencia de Cuba, Rocha formuló reiteradas declaraciones admitiendo sus “décadas” de trabajo para Cuba, que abarcan “40 años”. Cuando el agente secreto le dijo a Rocha que era “un representante encubierto aquí en Miami” cuya misión consistía en “contactarle, presentarme como su nuevo contacto y establecer un nuevo plan de comunicación”, Rocha respondió “sí”, y procedió a entablar una larga conversación durante la cual describió y celebró su actividad como agente de inteligencia cubano. En los encuentros, Rocha se comportó como un agente cubano, refiriéndose constantemente a Estados Unidos como “el enemigo”, y utilizando el término “nosotros” para referirse a sí mismo y a Cuba. Rocha también elogió a Fidel Castro como “el Comandante”, y se refirió a sus contactos en los servicios de inteligencia cubana como sus “camaradas” y a los servicios de inteligencia cubanos como la “Dirección”. Rocha calificó a su labor como agente cubano como un “grand slam”.
Rocha está acusado de conspirar para actuar como agente de un gobierno extranjero sin notificación previa al fiscal general; de actuar como agente de un gobierno extranjero sin notificación previa al fiscal general; y de utilizar un pasaporte obtenido mediante declaración falsa. Se espera que tenga su primera vista ante un juez de instrucción federal en Miami en el día de hoy, 4 de diciembre.
La oficina local del FBI en Miami está investigando el caso, con valiosas contribuciones del Servicio de Seguridad Diplomática del Departamento de Estado y la oficina local del FBI en Washington.
Los fiscales adjuntos federales Jonathan D. Stratton y John C. Shipley del Distrito Sur de Florida, junto con los abogados litigantes Heather M. Schmidt y Christine A. Bonomo de la Sección de contrainteligencia y control de exportaciones de la División de Seguridad Nacional están encargados de la acción penal.
Toda persona que tenga información para transmitir al respecto puede llamar al 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) o visitar tips.fbi.gov (en inglés).
Una denuncia penal implica solamente una alegación. Todos los acusados se presumen inocentes hasta tanto se demuestre su culpabilidad sin lugar a duda razonable en un tribunal de justicia.
Edmond Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, MATTHEW RYAN STROBL, 34, of Edmond, pleaded guilty to distribution of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
On August 16, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a four-count Indictment against Strobl, charging him with attempted sexual exploitation of a child, attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, commission of a felony sex offense by an individual required to register as a sex offender, and distribution of child pornography. According to court documents, beginning March 20, 2023, Strobl began communicating with a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) undercover special agent (UCA), posing in an undercover capacity as a juvenile female. Court documents allege Strobl requested the UCA send him photos of a sexual nature on multiple occasions, despite knowing the UCA’s purported age of 14. Strobl also sent several child pornographic images and videos to the UCA.
As the conversation between the UCA and Strobl continued, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received numerous reports from Instagram of an account associated with Strobl transmitting digital files believed to depict child pornography. Court records further reflect that even after law enforcement seized Strobl’s cell phone on June 26, 2023, he continued messaging the UCA using another cell phone. The Indictment alleges these felony offenses took place, despite Strobl’s previous convictions for sexual battery and rape in the second degree in Oklahoma County District Court case numbers CF-2018-4518 and CF-2012-2113. These convictions required Strobl to register as a sex offender.
Today, Strobl pleaded guilty to distribution of child pornography. As part of his plea, Strobl admitted to using a cell phone to distribute images that depict child pornography.
At sentencing, Strobl faces up to 40 years, and no less than 15 years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000. He also faces a term of supervised release of up to life and registration as a sex offender. Strobl has been in federal custody since August 18, 2023.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Tornado Alley Child Exploitation Task Force, led by HSI, and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, Probation and Parole Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jordan Ganz and Brandon Hale are prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
East St. Louis Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Threatening to Endanger a ChildRead the Press Release
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A district judge sentenced an East St. Louis man to 5 years in federal prison after he admitted to threatening the mother of a 10-year-old child, who he forcibly took from home in Illinois and drove to St. Louis.
Marcus L. Weekfall, also known as “Conehead”, 39, pleaded guilty to one count of interstate extortion with a threat to injure.
“The defendant targeted a child to mentally and emotionally abuse both the victim and the victim’s mother,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “His actions were calculated and dangerous, thus warranted this prison sentence.”
According to court documents, the minor victim was asleep in bed when Weekfall broke into the victim’s mother’s house around 4:20 a.m. on May 28, 2022. Weekfall demanded the child to leave with him, and he took him to St. Louis. Weekfall and the victim’s mother were previously in a romantic relationship.
“Illinois State Police Officers assigned to the Public Safety Enforcement Group work tirelessly to protect the residents in the Metro East and we will continue to coordinate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to make sure people like Weekfall are held accountable for their crimes,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly.
The mother contacted police after seeing Weekfall on a surveillance camera inside the residence. Officers with the East St. Louis Police Department contacted Weekfall by phone and requested the child be returned safely, but Weekfall refused.
While in possession of the victim, Weekfall called the mother several times and threatened to harm the child if the mother declined to meet with him. After five hours, Weekfall had another individual return the child to the mother.
“Protecting those who cannot protect themselves is of paramount importance to the FBI and all of law enforcement,” said FBI Springfield Field Office Special Agent in Charge David Nanz. “Due to swift action and coordination with our law enforcement partners, the child was returned safely and Weekfall will spend five years behind bars—giving him ample time to consider the gravity of his actions.”
In addition to the prison sentence, Weekfall will serve three years of supervised release.
FBI Springfield Field Office, the Public Safety Enforcement Group (PSEG) of the Illinois State Police and the East St. Louis Police Department contributed to the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ali Burns prosecuted the case.
Eagle Point Woman Sentenced to 13 Years in Federal Prison for Taking Sexually Explicit Photos of a Child and Distributing Them OnlineRead the Press Release
MEDFORD, Ore.—An Eagle Point, Oregon woman was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison today for taking sexually explicit photos of an 8-year-old child and sending them to multiple individuals she met online.
Kayla Dee Lester, 31, was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison and 20 years’ supervised release.
According to court documents, in 2020, Lester took sexually explicit photos of an 8-year-old child and distributed them to multiple individuals online using Whisper, a social media application that allows users to post and share photo and video messages anonymously. When interviewed by police, Lester admitted to using Whisper and other social media applications to meet people and solicit child pornography. She further admitted to sending the images she took of the 8-year-old child to others in hopes they would send her child pornography in return.
On September 17, 2020, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a three-count indictment charging Lester with using a minor to produce visual depictions of sexually explicit conduct and distributing and possessing child pornography. On May 10, 2023, Lester pleaded guilty to distributing child pornography.
On July 6, 2023, while awaiting sentencing, Lester was arrested for possessing an internet-connected cell phone in violation of her release conditions. Her cell phone was found to contain nude images of herself and other adults who she was chatting with online as well as chats between Lester and others wherein she described sexually abusing her 8-year-old victim. A forensic search later conducted on her phone revealed 44 videos of child pornography. On July 10, 2023, Lester’s pretrial release was revoked.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with assistance from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Southern Oregon High-Tech Crimes Task Force. It was prosecuted by Judith R. Harper, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org.
Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, they re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.
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. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Created in January 2007, the Southern Oregon High-Tech Crimes Task Force provides cybercrime investigations and digital evidence forensic analysis for federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in Southern Oregon. Member agencies include the Medford Police Department, Oregon State Police, the Jackson County Sheriff and District Attorney’s Offices, and HSI.
Doctor Charged in $14M Medicare and TRICARE Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Thomas Andrew Webster, M.D., age 50, of Sylvania, Ohio, has been charged by Filing of Information on one count of Conspiracy to Violate the Anti-Kickback Statue in connection with a fraudulent medical supply scheme that targeted elderly Medicare and TRICARE beneficiaries throughout Washington and in other states.
The Medicare program provides health insurance coverage for elderly and disabled Americans. The United States Department of Defense’s TRICARE program provides health benefits to United States Armed Forces military personnel, military retirees, and their dependents. Medicare and TRICARE provide health insurance coverage for eligible health care services, including, under certain eligibility conditions, for Durable Medical Equipment (DME). For DME to qualify for reimbursement, DME was required to be ordered by a physician who is treating the beneficiary for a specific illness or injury. The DME was also required to contribute to the physician’s treatment of the illness or injury or to the improvement of the patient’s physical condition.
During the relevant time period, Dr. Webster lived in Olympia, Washington, and was a licensed physician in Washington. The Information charges that between May 2021 and September 2023, a company identified as “Company A” engaged in a telemarketing scheme to obtain beneficiary identifying and medical information by using telemarketers to contact Medicare and TRICARE beneficiaries in the Eastern District of Washington and elsewhere. According to the Information, Company A then used the information to create a fake medical record that reflected a doctor visit that never took place, and medical orders for DME. The Information charges that Dr. Webster then signed the fraudulent medical documentation and physician orders, and that the fraudulent orders were then sold to DME companies that used the orders to bill Medicare and TRICARE falsely and fraudulently.
The Information further alleges that between May of 2021 and September of 2023, Medicare and TRICARE paid more than $13.7 million for DME fraudulently ordered and referred by Dr. Webster. These beneficiaries, which included many residents of the Eastern District of Washington, included individuals who had no desire or medical need for the DME, individuals who had elected for hospice care and who therefore were not eligible to be treated for most types of illness or injury under Medicare, and individuals who lacked the limb for which Defendant placed the DME order because it had been previously amputated.
The Information also alleges that, as part of the scheme, Dr. Webster received $839,565 from Medicare and TRICARE for fraudulent telemedicine visits that never took place.
“Telemarketing schemes that target and exploit the elderly are especially pernicious because they prey on those who are often most in need of a doctor’s independent judgment that is not tainted or biased by the doctor’s own personal financial interest,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. This is one reason that the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Department of Justice, and our law enforcement partners, have made combatting elder fraud and abuse a top priority.”
The conspiracy offense carries a maximum sentence of up to five years in federal prison. The case is being investigated by HHS OIG and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Dan Fruchter and Tyler H.L. Tornabene are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
An indictment or information is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
District Man Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison for Shooting Two Men in Northeast D.C.Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Avon Burke, 52, of Washington D.C., was sentenced on December 1, 2023 to a 90 month prison term for shooting two men in Northeast Washington, D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Burke pleaded guilty in August 2023 to two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. He was sentenced by the Honorable Lynn Leibovitz.
According to the Government’s evidence, Burke was present in the alleyway in the rear of 1355 New York Avenue NE, when a fight broke out between a group of men. Burke was not physically involved in this fight. While this group of men were fighting, Burke walked towards the group of men, raised both arms and extended them forward while holding a silver in color revolver, and fired two rounds in the direction of the two victims. One victim was struck in the chest and the other victim was struck in the leg. The Defendant then left the alleyway.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Helfand of the Major Crimes Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
District Man Sentenced to 36-Month Prison Term for BurglaryRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Jonathan Robinson-Gripper, 31, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to a 36-month prison term for burglarizing a home near Observatory Circle, NW, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Robinson-Gripper pleaded guilty in August 2023 to one count of second-degree burglary in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia and, today, the Honorable Jason Park sentenced Robinson-Gripper to 36 months in prison. Following his prison term, Robinson-Gripper will be placed on three years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, on August 19, 2022, Robinson-Gripper was canvassing the Observatory Circle neighborhood on behalf of a non-profit organization. He broke into one of the homes he visited while the homeowner slept inside. Robinson-Gripper stole some money and left the house. His actions were recorded by the home’s surveillance system and the nonprofit organization cooperated with MPD’s investigation, providing evidence that led to Robinson-Gripper’s arrest.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlos A. Valdivia.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing and Using a Firearm to Shoot His Domestic PartnerRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – A Bay Minette man was sentenced to 87 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm that he used to shoot his domestic partner.
According to court documents, Quadarius Demetrous Russell, 25, was previously convicted of a felony offense in Florida in 2022 and a misdemeanor domestic-violence offense in Alabama in 2021. Those convictions each rendered Russell’s possession of firearms illegal under federal law. On the morning of May 17, 2023, however, Russell illegally possessed and used a .45 caliber pistol to shoot his domestic partner in the chest during a violent confrontation at an apartment complex in Bay Minette. Following the shooting, Russell transported the victim to a hospital, where the victim received life saving treatment.
Russell initially lied to police about the nature of the victim’s gunshot wound, claiming that the victim had been shot during a drive-by shooting in Atmore. Later, on May 19, 2023, Russell admitted that he had accidentally shot the victim during the confrontation. Russell further admitted that he knew he was “not supposed to be around guns” due to his prior convictions. He allowed officers to retrieve the pistol from his apartment. A forensic expert at the FBI Laboratory in Quantico, Virginia located blood on the pistol, as well as Russell’s DNA on its grip, trigger, remaining textured areas, and the base of the pistol’s magazine.
In addition to the 87-month prison sentence, Chief United States District Judge Jeffrey U. Beaverstock ordered Russell to serve a three-year term of supervised release upon his release from prison, during which time he will receive mental health evaluation and treatment. The court did not impose a fine, but Chief Judge Beaverstock ordered Russell to pay $100 in special assessments and $4,140.52 in victim restitution.
U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bay Minette Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Connecticut Man Arrested on Illegal Ammunition Possession Charge in Connection with Rutland, Vermont ShootingRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that Bayohan Mangual, 38, of New Britain, Connecticut was arrested on Friday, November 17 in Connecticut pursuant to an arrest warrant issued in the District of Vermont. On October 18, 2023, a federal grand jury sitting in Rutland, Vermont returned an indictment charging Mangual with being a felon in possession of ammunition. Mangual made his initial appearance on November 17 in U.S. District Court in Hartford, Connecticut. U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish ordered Mangual to be detained and transferred to the District of Vermont for further proceedings. His arraignment in the District of Vermont occurred this afternoon before Chief United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford, at which Mangual pleaded not guilty. He remains in custody pending further proceedings.
According to court records, Mangual is charged with possession of ammunition on September 2, 2023. That day, Rutland City Police Department officers responded to an apartment on Cherry Street in Rutland City and found a deceased man and an injured man, both of whom appeared to have been shot. Mangual is charged with possessing the ammunition used in the shooting based on shell casings found at the scene. At the time he possessed the ammunition, Mangual had prior felony convictions that prohibited him from possessing ammunition under federal law.
If convicted of the current charge, Mangual faces a maximum sentence of 15 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines. The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charge in the indictment is merely an accusation, and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Rutland City Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations. He also thanked the Vermont State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations and Crime Scene Search Team; the New Britain, Connecticut Police Department; the Hartford, Connecticut Police Department; and the Connecticut State Police for their vital assistance.
The prosecutors are Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole Cate and Jonathan Ophardt. Mangual 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.
Chicopee Man Charged with Robbing and Assaulting a Confidential InformantRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Chicopee man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Springfield for allegedly robbing and assaulting a confidential informant using a firearm.
Hector Laureano, 38, was indicted on one count of assaulting with a dangerous weapon a person assisting an officer or employee of the United States in performance of official duties; one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence; and one count of robbery of money of the United States.
According to the indictment, on May 4, 2023, Laureano intentionally assaulted a confidential informant performing official duties. Laureano allegedly used of a Cobra Model .380 caliber pistol to rob a confidential informant of $1,400 belonging to the United States.
The charge of assaulting with a dangerous weapon a person assisting an officer or employee of the United States in performance of official duties provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. The charge of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence provides for a sentence of at least seven years in prison, five years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. The charge of robbery of money of the United States provides for a sentence of up to 25 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. 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 James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Catherine G. Curley of the Springfield Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
California Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Oscar Villa, 37, from California, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha for his involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Villa to 240 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On August 17, 2022, in Wayne County, Nebraska, a call came in about two suspicious people attempting to get into a resident’s car. Nebraska State Patrol troopers responded and encountered Oscar Villa and Johana Madrid on the side of the road on Nebraska Highway 35 and 849 Road. Both claimed they were on their way to Iowa for drug treatment but couldn’t really explain how they wound up on the side of the road. Madrid admitted to having meth in her bookbag and a firearm was located on the ground nearby. They also found a large meth shard in the fitted sheet Madrid had originally draped over herself.
Villa and Madrid were taken into custody. While in custody, troopers searched Madrid’s phone which showed a map of a field near the intersection where the two were encountered which contained a location pin. Using that map and pin, troopers found a bookbag that was covered by soybean plants. Inside the bookbag was approximately 20 pounds of pure meth.
Madrid has pleaded guilty and is set for sentencing on January 3, 2024.
This case was investigated by the DEA, FBI, and the Omaha Police Department.
California Lawyer Sentenced to Four Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Gregory J. Haanstad of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that on November 30, 2023, Matthew Browndorf (age: 53) was sentenced to 48 months’ imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for his willful failure to account for and pay over taxes owed to the Internal Revenue Service. Browndorf was also ordered to pay over $830,000 in restitution and a $100 special assessment.
Publicly filed documents reflect that Browndorf—a lawyer—owned and operated a holding company named Plutos Sama, LLC. Through Plutos Sama, Browndorf also owned subsidiary law firms across the United States, including BP Peterman, which was based in Brookfield, Wisconsin. As Plutos Sama’s CEO, Browndorf was responsible for ensuring that Plutos Sama and BP Peterman appropriately: collected and remitted payroll taxes; filed the appropriate payroll tax forms with the IRS; remitted funds associated with their employee pension benefit plan; and remitted funds associated with their health care benefit program.
Browndorf unlawfully failed to fulfill these obligations. All told, the total tax loss associated with Browndorf’s crimes exceeded $5,000,000. In addition, Browndorf’s conduct hurt his employees. Court filings indicate that some employees were forced to move in with relatives or borrow money from friends. Others underwent serious medical procedures, unaware that Browndorf had failed to appropriately remit their health insurance premiums, resulting in a lack of coverage and the need to pay out-of pocket for their treatment.
Court filings also documented that Browndorf enjoyed substantial income by virtue of his law practice and other ventures, and nevertheless chose to use the funds associated with his crimes to fund a lavish lifestyle, featuring sports cars, private flights, club memberships, and luxurious vacations. Court filings also revealed that Browndorf committed additional misconduct while on court supervision, including possessing over $30,000 in stolen goods.
When imposing sentence, Judge J.P. Stadtmueller noted that the extent of harm Browndorf caused his victims “jump[ed] off the page.” Judge Stadtmueller also observed that Browndorf, as a lawyer, “had the skill set” to “know better” but nevertheless chose to enrich himself at his employees’ expense. Browndorf is currently facing a separate federal prosecution for other federal crimes in the District of Maryland.
“Business owners who willfully flout our tax laws not only cause harm to every taxpayer but also put law-abiding businesses at a competitive disadvantage,” stated U.S. Attorney Haanstad. “This is especially galling when professionals abuse positions of trust and use their criminal proceeds to fund extravagant lifestyles on the backs of their employees and other hardworking Americans. I commend the excellent work and collaboration by all involved in bringing this individual to justice.”
“As a nation, we collectively rely on all citizens to meet their tax obligations,” said Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation Chicago Field Office. “Individuals who attempt to evade paying their taxes add an unfair financial burden to honest taxpayers. IRS Criminal Investigation remains steadfast in its commitment to investigate and bring to justice those who attempt to sidestep their tax obligations.”
Ruben R. Chapa, Chicago’s Regional Director of the U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration (“EBSA”) commented, “EBSA will continue to work aggressively with our criminal law enforcement partners to address the financial harm caused by these types of schemes.”
This matter was investigated by IRS-CI and EBSA. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Knight.
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Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales
(414) 297-1700
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Boise Man Sentenced to 7.5 Years in Federal Prison for Attempting to Use Interstate Facilities to Transmit Information About a MinorRead the Press Release
BOISE – Japheth Shipp, 35, of Boise, was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison for attempted use of interstate facilities to transmit information about a minor, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, the investigation began in April 2023 when the Boise Police Department (BPD) received a report that Shipp had engaged in inappropriate communications with a 13-year-old. A BPD detective began communicating with Shipp posing as the child. During the electronic communications, Shipp sent explicit images and discussed engaging the child in sexual acts. Shipp was arrested when he traveled to meet the child.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also sentenced Shipp to ten years of supervised release. Shipp will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the conviction.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the investigation by the Boise Police Department, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kassandra McGrady prosecuted this 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 the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) of the Department of Justice, 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.
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Arizona Man Sentenced to 45 Years is the Last Co-Conspirator Sentenced in a Multi-Defendant International Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Kingman, Arizona, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on November 27, 2023.
Rusty James Driscoll, 39, was sentenced to 45 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Driscoll was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in March of 2022. He was found guilty by a federal jury on August 4, 2023.
In 2022, Driscoll, and at least 17 other co-conspirators, who were all previously indicted and sentenced, were involved in a large-scale multiple pound methamphetamine conspiracy stretching from Mexico, Arizona, Louisiana, then finally making its way to South Dakota. Driscoll had a direct connection to import methamphetamine from a source in Mexico. He coordinated shipments of methamphetamine to co-conspirators in South Dakota and Louisiana, who then distributed it to others in those areas.
Agents identified the South Dakota cell leader of this organization as Christopher Daniels, who previously received a sentence of 30 years for his involvement in the conspiracy. Daniels obtained methamphetamine from Sean Gross, who lived in Arizona and sourced methamphetamine from Driscoll. Gross was sentenced to 26 years and eight months in prison for his involvement. In addition to Daniels in South Dakota, Gross and Driscoll also sent multiple pounds of methamphetamine to Jessica Johnson in Louisiana. Johnson received a sentence of 14 years for her involvement. Agents determined that Daniels was personally responsible for distributing at least 120 pounds of methamphetamine in South Dakota. Driscoll played a lead role in this conspiracy and was responsible for directing the quantities, prices, payments, and shipments of multiple multi-pound deliveries of methamphetamine to South Dakota and elsewhere.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, IRS, SD Division of Criminal Investigation, SD Highway Patrol, and the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case.
Driscoll was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Friday 1 December 2023
변호사 자격이 박탈된 퀸스 변호사, 고객 사기에 대해 유죄 인정Read the Press Release
오늘 오전 뉴욕 브루클린의 연방법원에서 마이클 리라고도 알려진 현 W. 리(Hyun W. Lee)는 자신의 부동산 고객과 그 거래 상대로부터 변호사 에스크로 계좌에 보관된 자금을 가로챈 사기 행각과 관련한 전신 금융사기 혐의에 대해 유죄를 인정했습니다. 오늘 재판은 파멜라 K. 첸(Pamela K. Chen) 미국 지방법원 판사 앞에서 진행되었습니다. 판결이 확정되면, 이 씨는 최대 20년의 징역형을 선고받게 됩니다. 또한 이 씨는 몰수 금으로 327만 달러를 지불하기로도 합의했습니다.
뉴욕 동부 지역의 브리온 피스 변호가 유죄 인정 사실을 발표했습니다.
"오늘 유죄를 인정함으로써 이 씨는 자신의 변호사 자격이 정지되고 박탈된 후에도 변호사 자격을 유지한 것처럼 한인 사회 구성원을 속이고 그들이 맡긴 수백만 달러를 훔쳤다는 사실을 인정했습니다"라고 미국 변호사 브리온 피스는 말했습니다. "신뢰를 기반으로 하는 지위를 이용해 타인을 속이는 사람들에게 책임을 묻는 동시에 지역사회를 보호하는 것은 이 사무실의 최우선 과제이며 앞으로도 계속될 것입니다."
피스 씨는 이번 수사에 도움을 준 퀸스 카운티 지역 변호사 사무실에 감사의 뜻을 표했습니다.
법원에 제출된 서류와 변론 과정에서 제시된 사실에 따르면, 이 씨는 자신의 에스크로 계좌에 예치된 자금을 풀어줄 것이라는 허위 진술로 고객과 거래 상대가 부동산 구매를 위해 자신에게 자금을 맡기도록 유도했습니다. 그러나 이 씨는 이 자금을 유용하여 카지노에서 도박하거나 자신이 일부 지분을 소유한 식당의 비용을 지불하는 등 자신의 이익을 위해 전용했습니다. 또한 이 씨는 자신이 부동산 매매와 관련하여 고객을 대리하고 부동산 거래와 관련하여 자금을 수령하여 에스크로 계좌에 보관할 수 있는 권한을 가진 변호사라고 허위 진술했습니다. 사실, 이 씨는 뉴욕주 변호사 자격이 정지되었고 이후 변호사 자격이 박탈되었습니다. 그 결과 이 씨는 고객과 제삼자로부터 자금을 받을 자격도 없었습니다.
이 사기를 진행하면서 이 씨는 에스크로 계좌에 보관된 자금 상태에 대해 고객이 그 자금이 안전하다고 믿도록 문서를 조작하여 고객을 오도했습니다. 이 씨가 고객들에게 보여준 서류에는 자신의 에스크로 계좌 잔액이 거의 300만 달러에 달한다고 되어 있었지만, 실제로는 약 2만 5천 달러까지로 고갈된 상태였습니다. 이 씨는 에스크로 계좌에서 자금을 인출해 달라는 고객과 거래 상대의 요청을 이행하지 않았으며, 이 씨가 이미 계좌의 자금을 거의 모두 사용한 상태에서도 남은 자금을 공평하게 분배하는 방법을 모색 중이라고 거짓으로 주장했습니다.
이 씨 또는 위법 행위에 연루된 다른 뉴욕 변호사들의 행위로 인해 손해를 입은 피해자는 변호사 고객 보호 기금에 청구서를 제출하거나 전화 (800) 442-3863 또는 이메일([email protected])로 연락하면 보상 자격이 있을 수 있습니다.
이 사건은 미국 법무부 기업 및 증권 사기 부서의 히랄 메타(Hiral D. Mehta) 부검사와 브라이언 모리스(Brian D. Morris) 검사가 특수 요원 마틴 설리번(Martin Sullivan)과 법률 보조 전문가 페이튼 제퍼슨(Peyton Jefferson)의 도움을 받아 기소 중입니다.
피고:
HYUN W. LEE, 일명 "마이클 리"
나이: 51
클로스터, 뉴저지주 클로스터 거주E.D.N.Y. 적요서 번호 23-CR-465(PKC)
변호사 자격이 박탈된 퀸스 변호사, 고객 사기에 대해 유죄 인정Read the Press Release
오늘 오전 뉴욕 브루클린의 연방법원에서 마이클 리라고도 알려진 현 W. 리(Hyun W. Lee)는 자신의 부동산 고객과 그 거래 상대로부터 변호사 에스크로 계좌에 보관된 자금을 가로챈 사기 행각과 관련한 전신 금융사기 혐의에 대해 유죄를 인정했습니다. 오늘 재판은 파멜라 K. 첸(Pamela K. Chen) 미국 지방법원 판사 앞에서 진행되었습니다. 판결이 확정되면, 이 씨는 최대 20년의 징역형을 선고받게 됩니다. 또한 이 씨는 몰수 금으로 327만 달러를 지불하기로도 합의했습니다.
뉴욕 동부 지역의 브리온 피스 변호가 유죄 인정 사실을 발표했습니다.
"오늘 유죄를 인정함으로써 이 씨는 자신의 변호사 자격이 정지되고 박탈된 후에도 변호사 자격을 유지한 것처럼 한인 사회 구성원을 속이고 그들이 맡긴 수백만 달러를 훔쳤다는 사실을 인정했습니다"라고 미국 변호사 브리온 피스는 말했습니다. "신뢰를 기반으로 하는 지위를 이용해 타인을 속이는 사람들에게 책임을 묻는 동시에 지역사회를 보호하는 것은 이 사무실의 최우선 과제이며 앞으로도 계속될 것입니다."
피스 씨는 이번 수사에 도움을 준 퀸스 카운티 지역 변호사 사무실에 감사의 뜻을 표했습니다.
법원에 제출된 서류와 변론 과정에서 제시된 사실에 따르면, 이 씨는 자신의 에스크로 계좌에 예치된 자금을 풀어줄 것이라는 허위 진술로 고객과 거래 상대가 부동산 구매를 위해 자신에게 자금을 맡기도록 유도했습니다. 그러나 이 씨는 이 자금을 유용하여 카지노에서 도박하거나 자신이 일부 지분을 소유한 식당의 비용을 지불하는 등 자신의 이익을 위해 전용했습니다. 또한 이 씨는 자신이 부동산 매매와 관련하여 고객을 대리하고 부동산 거래와 관련하여 자금을 수령하여 에스크로 계좌에 보관할 수 있는 권한을 가진 변호사라고 허위 진술했습니다. 사실, 이 씨는 뉴욕주 변호사 자격이 정지되었고 이후 변호사 자격이 박탈되었습니다. 그 결과 이 씨는 고객과 제삼자로부터 자금을 받을 자격도 없었습니다.
이 사기를 진행하면서 이 씨는 에스크로 계좌에 보관된 자금 상태에 대해 고객이 그 자금이 안전하다고 믿도록 문서를 조작하여 고객을 오도했습니다. 이 씨가 고객들에게 보여준 서류에는 자신의 에스크로 계좌 잔액이 거의 300만 달러에 달한다고 되어 있었지만, 실제로는 약 2만 5천 달러까지로 고갈된 상태였습니다. 이 씨는 에스크로 계좌에서 자금을 인출해 달라는 고객과 거래 상대의 요청을 이행하지 않았으며, 이 씨가 이미 계좌의 자금을 거의 모두 사용한 상태에서도 남은 자금을 공평하게 분배하는 방법을 모색 중이라고 거짓으로 주장했습니다.
이 씨 또는 위법 행위에 연루된 다른 뉴욕 변호사들의 행위로 인해 손해를 입은 피해자는 변호사 고객 보호 기금에 청구서를 제출하거나 전화 (800) 442-3863 또는 이메일([email protected])로 연락하면 보상 자격이 있을 수 있습니다.
이 사건은 미국 법무부 기업 및 증권 사기 부서의 히랄 메타(Hiral D. Mehta) 부검사와 브라이언 모리스(Brian D. Morris) 검사가 특수 요원 마틴 설리번(Martin Sullivan)과 법률 보조 전문가 페이튼 제퍼슨(Peyton Jefferson)의 도움을 받아 기소 중입니다.
피고:
HYUN W. LEE, 일명 "마이클 리"
나이: 51
클로스터, 뉴저지주 클로스터 거주E.D.N.Y. 적요서 번호 23-CR-465(PKC)
“Money Mule” sentenced to one year in prison for call center scheme that defrauded victims of more than $700,000Read the Press Release
Seattle – A 33-year-old SeaTac, Washington, man was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison and three years of supervised release for a money laundering conviction related to his participation in a call center scheme to defraud elderly victims across the country, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Arifkhan Pathan was arrested on January 4, 2021. Between August 2020 and January 2021, Pathan played a key role in defrauding 28 victims of more than $700,000. The restitution amount will be determined by U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik at a later date.
“According to the FBI, in 2022 there was more than $1 billion in victim losses due to these call center fraud schemes. These schemers often target elderly victims and pretend to be government officials to try to build trust so they can steal their money,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. “We need to repeatedly remind people that government employees will never ask you to withdraw and send packages of cash to some other address for ‘safe-keeping.’”
According to records filed in the case, in November 2020, investigators with Homeland Security Investigation became aware of suspicious packages arriving at Seattle UPS and FedEx locations. The investigation revealed the packages were filled with cash and were sent by victims from as far away as New York, Texas, and Colorado. The packages were sent to conspirators who used fake identity documents, such as driver’s licenses, to pick-up the packages.
According to multiple victims in the case, they had received a telephone call from someone who claimed to be employed by the Social Security Administration. The caller claimed the victim’s Social Security number had been compromised, and the only way to protect the victim’s money was to withdraw thousands of dollars in cash from their bank accounts and send it via UPS or FedEx to an “agent” elsewhere in the U.S. for safe-keeping. The callers allegedly demanded the victims send packages containing as much as $30,000 in cash. The scammers used UPS and FedEx so the co-conspirators could track the packages and pick up the packages of cash using the fake identity documents. The investigation revealed the callers were connected to an Indian call center.
Pathan used false driver’s licenses in real people’s identities to pick up packages of cash sent by victims. Pathan deposited much of the money he picked up in various bank accounts that could be accessed by his co-schemers. He was paid a commission on the money of about seven percent.
In asking for a 40-month prison sentence, Assistant United States Attorney Miriam Hinman wrote to the court, “Seven of these victims have explained to the Court how severely the offense impacted them, including substantial loss of retirement savings, loss of credit, ongoing debt, and inability to afford basic items like groceries and medications. This financial hardship also caused victims to suffer from enormous anxiety, causing weight loss, migraines, and more….
Pathan participated extensively in a fraud scheme that caused enormous harm to dozens of U.S. victims, many of whom were elderly and lost their retirement savings. He did so for personal profit and should not be allowed to escape from facing the consequences of his actions ….”
The case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST) comprised of representatives from HSI, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Seattle Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Miriam R. Hinman and Casey S. Conzatti.
York County Man Charged with Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Michael Carbaugh, age 37, of York County, Pennsylvania, was indicted on November 29, 2023, by a federal grand jury with child pornography offenses.
According to U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment alleges that Carbaugh distributed child pornography from November 3-7, 2023, in York County. The indictment further alleges that Carbaugh was in possession of child pornography on November 15, 2023.
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 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.usdoj.gov/psc.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Varley is prosecuting the case.
The total maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a term of up to lifetime supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Yelm, Washington, man sentenced to ten years in prison for possession of images of child sexual abuseRead the Press Release
Tacoma – A 40-year-old Yelm, Washington man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to ten years in prison for possession of images of child sexual abuse, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Scotti Jason Ortiz has been in custody since his arrest on February 9, 2021.
According to records filed in the case, a foreign law enforcement agency alerted Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Cyber Crimes Center (C3) Child Exploitation Investigations Unit that a Kik user was sharing images of child sexual abuse. Ortiz was identified as the user.
When a search warrant was served on Ortiz’ electronic devices, law enforcement determined he possessed a video showing the sexual molestation of three children under the age of 12. It does not appear that Ortiz created the images.
Ortiz has prior convictions relating to child sexual abuse. In 2005 he was convicted of third-degree rape of a child. In 2013 he was sentenced to 75-months in prison for failing to register as a sex offender and dealing and possessing depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Due to those convictions, Ortiz faced a mandatory minimum ten-year federal prison sentence.
Ortiz was released from the 75-month state sentence on June 30, 2020, and had been out of prison barely a month when he set up the Kik account in August 2020. It was through that account that he began to communicate with an undercover law enforcement agent in England about his sexual interest in children.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Zach Dillon.
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 United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's 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.
Wilmington Felon with Six Prior Convictions Receives Seven Year Sentence for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Wilmington man with six previous state felony convictions was sentenced to 85 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon after he reached for a gun during a traffic stop. On August 23, 2023, Michael Eugene Williams, age 28, pled guilty to the charge.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on August 29, 2022, officers with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle the defendant was driving. The defendant was the sole occupant of the vehicle and when deputies approached the vehicle, they detected an odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle. When asked by deputies to exit the vehicle, the defendant did so hesitantly and provided deputies with a false name. While outside the vehicle, the defendant failed to comply with deputies’ orders and a brief struggle ensued, during which, the defendant resisted officers and reached towards his waistband. The defendant was eventually handcuffed and a 9mm handgun was located in the defendant’s pants. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed approximately 62 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, and drug paraphernalia.
Williams has six prior felony convictions in state court for burglary, selling heroin, trafficking heroin by possession, trafficking heroin by manufacturing, and conspiracy to traffic opium or heroin.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, 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.
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-00041M-001.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and State and Local Law Enforcement Officials Announce “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection CampaignRead the Press Release
BOISE – During the holiday season, online criminals increasingly target Idahoans through online scams and fraud schemes. Today, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit, along with the FBI, the Idaho State Police, the Ada County Prosecutor’s Office, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, the Boise Police Department, the Meridian Police Department, and the Garden City Police Department, announced their joint “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign. The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division, AARP Idaho, and the Better Business Bureau also participated in the announcement.
The campaign advises members of the public to exercise skepticism and caution when receiving unsolicited online, email, pop-up, or text communications from unknown or unverified sources. If there is any doubt about a link, message, or attachment, law enforcement cautions: “don’t click it.”
As part of the campaign, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and their partners will release a public service announcement each week in December leading up to Christmas. In the first PSA, available here, Ada County Prosecuting Attorney Jan Bennetts, Idaho State Police Director Colonel Kedrick Wills, and U.S. Attorney Hurwit introduce “Don’t Click December” and explain some of the ways in which individuals can be targeted.
Three additional PSAs will alert the public to common online fraud schemes that Idaho law enforcement has seen affect Idahoans. These schemes are:
- “Package can’t be delivered” scam: This scam targets individuals through text messages or emails, claiming a package cannot be delivered unless they click the provided link and enter personal information or pay a redelivery fee. Often the scammer wants you to click a link to steal your money and information. Don’t click it. Instead, contact the delivery service or seller directly using a verified number or website.
- “Account subscription” scam: In this scam, you could receive an email or text message indicating a subscription has been renewed for another year. The message encourages you to click a link to verify or to receive a receipt for the subscription. The criminals on the other end could be posing as a subscription service you participate in or as one you do not actively have. If you receive an unsolicited message asking you to click a subscription link, don’t click it. Report as spam and delete any messages about auto-renewals claiming to be from a company where you don’t have a subscription. If the message appears to be from a subscription you actually have, check the email address to verify it is from the service you signed up for.
- “Phantom hacker” scam: In this scam, criminals send unsolicited messages by phone, email, text, or pop-up pretending to be “tech support” and asking you to provide access to your computer so software can be updated to “thwart hackers.” But those reaching out are actually the hackers, and once they gain access to your computer, they can install software to steal your financial information. Sometimes the scammers even pretend to be the government or law enforcement and send messages that your money is still unsafe and needs to be moved to a new “alias” account. If you get such a request, don’t click it. Government entities and legitimate businesses won’t send unsolicited messages to ask for access to your computer.
Unfortunately, these are not the only schemes affecting the public, and new schemes arise all the time. Law enforcement hopes that the “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign will raise public awareness and encourage individuals to talk to their friends and relatives about not clicking suspicious links, texts, messages, pop-ups, or attachments.
“We have witnessed many Idahoans lose their hard-earned money or their entire retirement savings to online scams. And, sadly, this type of crime tends to spike during the holiday season,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “But, together, we can reduce the risks by talking with each other about how to avoid such scams, and I’m grateful to our law enforcement partners and the AARP for joining us in the Don’t Click December campaign. We also encourage Idahoans to report any scams as soon as possible so that law enforcement can investigate and we can bring these vicious online criminals to justice.”
“Last year, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received 800,944 complaints about suspected internet crimes. That’s more than 2,000 complaints every single day,” said David Bodily, Supervisory Special Agent of the Salt Lake City FBI’s Boise Resident Agency. “As cyber scams continue to increase in scope and sophistication, it’s important that law enforcement and the public work together to stay ahead of the risks.”
“Online vigilance is crucial in this era of digital interconnectedness,” said Idaho State Police Colonel Kedrick Wills. “Recognizing our shared vulnerability, let's come together to combat online scams and cultivate a cyber threat-free environment. In this endeavor, awareness is our greatest ally.”
“We can all play a part in preventing scammers from targeting their next victim in our communities,” said Ada County Prosecutor Jan Bennetts. “If you do find yourself the victim of a scam, contact local law enforcement. My office works closely with our law enforcement partners to hold offenders accountable for victimizing people through scams.”
“Scammers use secrecy, urgency, and fear to manipulate victims. If at any time you are being pressured, told to keep transactions secret, or even lie to loved ones and authorities to complete a transaction, it's very likely a scam. We encourage all scam victims to know they are not alone, and they should call police for help,” said Boise Police Detective Brad Thorne.
“Sophisticated criminal organizations know how to separate consumers from their hard-earned money and they are relentless in their pursuit,” said AARP Idaho state director Lupe Wissel. “Older Idahoans are a prime target for scammers because they have accumulated resources over their lifetime. This new initiative will give Idahoans the tips and resources they need to help protect their assets.”
"At BBB, we've found a simple truth: Investing just a few minutes in choosing a trustworthy business isn't just wise, it's a powerful shield against today's cunning scams. 'Don’t Click December' isn't just a campaign; it's a wake-up call. By being selective and informed, consumers can turn the tables on fraudsters. Remember, a few minutes of smart research today can save you from the headache of a scam tomorrow,” said Dale Dixon, Chief Innovation Officer, Better Business Bureau Great West+Pacific.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners recognize that we all must work to eliminate the stigma individuals may experience if they are victimized. There is no shame to falling victim to an online scheme, which are often designed by professional criminals, sophisticated, and tested repeatedly across the country.
For this reason, the “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign also publicizes ways to report scams and incidents of fraud to the FBI and local law enforcement.
To learn more about these and other scams targeting Americans visit FBI.gov, and if you believe you are the victim of a scam, take-action by reporting it to FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov or by contacting your local law enforcement agency.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office announces over $12.2 million in federal grant awardsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming today announced grant funding totaling $12,273,612 for Wyoming from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs.
“I’m pleased to announce these grants supporting law enforcement and victim services in Wyoming,” said U.S. Attorney Nick Vassallo. “This funding demonstrates the Department of Justice’s commitment to fighting violent crime and making sure crime victims can access support, safety, and justice in their communities.”
The grants include the following:
Albany County: $900,000
Community Courts Initiative, Albany County Court Supervised Treatment ProgramCity of Casper: $44,295
Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) ProgramCity of Riverton: $296,311
Rural and Small Department Violent Crime Reduction Program, Community Service Officer ProgramLaramie County: $77,820
Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) ProgramNorthern Arapahoe Tribe: $623,934
U.S. Department of Justice Coordinated Tribal Assistance, Reentry ServicesUniversity of Wyoming: $224,316
State Justice Statistics Program for Statistical Analysis Centers, Data on Domestic-Related HomicidesUniversity of Wyoming: $649,464
Research and Evaluation on Policing Practices, Accountability Mechanisms and AlternativesWyoming Attorney General’s Office: $2,783,406
Office for Victims of Crime/Victims of Crime Act, Victim AssistanceWyoming Attorney General’s Office: $686,000
Office for Victims of Crime/Victims of Crime Act, Victim CompensationWyoming Attorney General’s Office: $769,661
Office for Victims of Crime, Victim Sexual Assault ServicesWyoming Attorney General’s Office: $360,714
Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task ForcesWyoming Attorney General’s Office: $15,661
Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) Reallocation Funds ProgramWyoming Attorney General’s Office: $312,708
Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants ProgramWyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: $600,000
Office on Violence Against Women, Legal Assistance for VictimsWyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: $950,000
Rural Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking ProgramWyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: $350,000
Grants to Engage Men and Boys as Allies in the Prevention of Violence Against Women and GirlsWyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: $1,123,934
Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and StalkingWyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: $340,618
Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions ProgramWyoming State Crime Laboratory: $650,000
DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog ReductionYouth Emergency Services: $494,674
Mentoring Programs for Youth in the Juvenile Justice SystemThe Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance, and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance equity and fairness in the administration of justice, assist victims and uphold the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
Two Defendants Plead Guilty in Scheme to Fraudulently Obtain More Than $1.8 Million in COVID-19 CARES Act Unemployment Insurance BenefitsRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – Federal inmates Jason Haddox, age 40, and Jonathan Henry, age 32, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, and Henry also pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft, relating to the submission of fraudulent CARES Act unemployment insurance benefits. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act was a federal law enacted in March 2020 to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The guilty pleas were announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron; Special Agent in Charge Troy W. Springer of the National Capital Region U.S. Department of Labor - Office of Inspector General (“DOL-OIG”); and Postal Inspector in Charge Damon E. Wood of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (“USPIS”) - Washington Division.
Financial assistance offered through the CARES Act included expanded eligibility for Unemployment Insurance (“UI”) benefits and increased UI benefits through the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program (“PUA”), Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (“FPUC”), and the Lost Wages Assistance Program (“LWAP”).
According to their plea agreements, during the time of the conspiracy, March 22, 2020 through at least June 2021, Haddox and Henry were inmates at the Federal Correctional Institution, Fort Dix (“FCI Fort Dix”). Haddox, Henry, and their co-conspirators (both inmates and outside individuals), submitted fraudulent online applications for UI benefits in Maryland and other states. Henry and other conspirators used the personally identifying information (“PII”) of identity theft victims in many of the applications. Based on the information in the fraudulent applications, the Maryland Department of Labor, which is responsible for processing applications for UI benefits in Maryland, issued prepaid debit cards in the names of the applicants and mailed them to addresses included on the applications, which were accessible to the conspirators. The defendants and their co-conspirators used the prepaid debit cards to withdraw money from ATMs and to make retail purchases.
In addition to fraudulent Maryland UI claims, Haddox submitted fraudulent UI claims in Arizona, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Louisiana, Illinois, and New York, totaling at least $292,451 in losses. Henry admitted that he used the PII of identity theft victims to submit approximately 191 fraudulent claims, the majority in Maryland but also in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and North Carolina. Of the fraudulent claims submitted, 152 claims were paid, with an actual loss of approximately $1,894,971.
Haddox faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud. U.S. District Judge Deborah K. Chasanow has scheduled sentencing for him on March 13, 2024, at 2:30 p.m.
Henry and the government have agreed that, if the Court accepts the plea agreement, they will jointly recommend that Henry be sentenced to 97 months in federal prison. Judge Chasanow has scheduled sentencing for Henry on March 22, 2024 at 9:30 a.m.
The District of Maryland Strike Force is one of five strike forces established throughout the United States by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute COVID-19 fraud, including fraud relating to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act. The CARES Act was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The strike forces focus on large-scale, multi-state pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces are interagency law enforcement efforts, using prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams designed to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.
For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
United States Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the DOL-OIG and the USPIS for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes, who is prosecuting the case.
For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao/md.
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Third Defendant in Williamsburg and Virginia Beach Money Laundering and Prostitution Massage Parlor Scheme SentencedRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A Norfolk man was sentenced today to 37 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to engage in money laundering.
According to court documents, from approximately January 2021, through May 4, 2022, Ye Wang, 32, along with his co-defendants Si Liu, 36, and Yang Gao, 33, also of Norfolk, conspired to move and conceal proceeds obtained through prostitution. During the conspiracy, Gao, Wang, and Liu worked as operators or managers of illicit, unregistered massage parlors located in Virginia Beach and Williamsburg, which derived revenue from the prostitution of female employees. Women were recruited online to work for the defendants, and in turn performed sex acts for customers in the massage parlors in exchange for cash payments.
Gao managed the day-to-day operations of the massage parlors, including collecting money obtained via commercial sex. Gao also provided transportation to women engaged in commercial sex and maintained the facilities, unlicensed massage parlors, utilized for commercial sex. Wang assisted Gao in the operation of the illicit commercial sex business. Liu helped facilitate the exploitation of women engaged in commercial sex, collected proceeds from the illegal activity, managed the web-based advertising of the illicit massage parlors, and encouraged women to perform sex acts by providing condoms and offering financial incentives.
Gao, Wang, and Liu split the prostitution proceeds with the women engaged in prostitution. Gao, Wang and Liu traveled to the massage parlors located in Virginia Beach and Williamsburg to collect prostitution proceeds, and then deposited a percentage of profits into various bank accounts. Money was then transferred to other members of the larger enterprise through cash deliveries and via mobile banking. A combined total of $696,706.65 was laundered during the conspiracy.
Pursuant to the plea agreements the defendants agreed to forfeit four vehicles, over $130,000 in US Currency, numerous items of jewelry, a gold bar, and three personal residences, with a combined value totaling over $1,000,000.
Liu and Gao were sentenced in August to 30 months and 48 months, respectively.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Derek W. Gordon, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C.; Paul Neudigate, Chief of Virginia Beach Police; and Colonel Gary T. Settle, Superintendent of Virginia State Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan Montoya and Matthew Heck prosecuted the case.
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. 2:22-cr-108.
Texas National Guard Soldier Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DEL RIO, Texas – A Fort Worth man active in the Texas National Guard was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 72 months in prison and ordered to pay a $17,000 assessment for possession of child pornography.
According to court documents, Texas Department of Public Safety troopers conducted a traffic stop near Del Rio on Dec. 17, 2021. Jesus Gaytan III, 23, and a minor were passengers in the vehicle and, upon questioning, disclosed that they were in a sexual relationship. A review of Gaytan’s cell phone revealed video of Gaytan and the minor involved in sexual acts. Gaytan was arrested during the traffic stop and has remained in federal custody since. He pleaded guilty on March 14, 2022 to one count of possession of child pornography.
“The possession of child pornography is a serious offense and anyone in violation will be prosecuted accordingly,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “I appreciate the professionalism and dedication of our law enforcement partners at the state and federal levels in this case, which led to this six year sentence.”
“Individuals who commit heinous acts of violence against children will be found and brought to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee for the Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio Division. “I am grateful for the cooperation of our federal partners whose collaboration is vital to find these criminals and keep them off our streets.”
HSI and DPS investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rex Beasley 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. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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St. Paul Felon Charged in Federal Complaint for Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A St. Paul man has been charged in a federal criminal complaint with attempted illegal possession with intent to distribute cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on November 18, 2023, officers with the St. Paul Police Department (SPPD) responded to a 911 call regarding an unsolicited package containing what appeared to be cocaine. They field tested the substance, determined it was cocaine, and removed and replaced it with a GPS tracking device. Special agents from Homeland Security Investigations later observed Paris Jackson, 38, picking up the package at the residence and attempted to stop him as he returned to a waiting vehicle with the package in hand. Instead, Jackson fled and was pursued by law enforcement. He ultimately crashed into an SPPD squad car at approximately 80 miles per hour, which resulted in life threatening injuries to his passenger and minor injuries to an SPPD officer. He fled from the scene and was ultimately apprehended.
The complaint charges Jackson with attempted possession with the intent to distribute cocaine. Jackson has a criminal history dating back to 2001, including multiple arrests for controlled substance offenses. He made his initial appearance on November 22, 2023, before Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung in U.S. District Court.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the St. Paul Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allen A. Slaughter and Carla J. Baumel are prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Louis Man Caught with Machine Guns Admits Drug, Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A man who was caught with fentanyl, methamphetamine and two fully automatic handguns pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to three felonies Friday.
Courtlend Green, 26, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Green admitted that St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department detectives with the Mobile Reserve Unit learned that he was known to sell drugs at a supermarket in the 8300 block of North Broadway. On Jan. 3, 2023, they spotted him driving into the supermarket parking lot. Because of his history of fleeing from police, officers deployed tire deflation devices in front of Green’s Honda Crosstour before activating their lights and trying to approach Green’s car. Green sped away before crashing into another vehicle at the intersection of Broadway and Gimblin Road. Green then got out and ran. Officers caught and arrested him.
Inside Green’s Honda, officers found two Glock handguns that were equipped with illegal “switches,” or auto sears, that converted them into fully automatic weapons. One Glock, which had been stolen, had a drum magazine and the other had an extended magazine. Green, who is a convicted felon and therefore barred from the possession of firearms, admitted both possessing the firearms and buying the Glock switches for them. Officers also found about 64 grams of meth and at least 18 grams of fentanyl.
Green is scheduled to be sentenced March 8, 2024
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Catherine Hoag is prosecuting the case.
Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar Statement on the Passing of Justice Sandra Day O’ConnorRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department issued the following statement from Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar following the passing of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor:
“On behalf of the Office of the Solicitor General, I extend my deepest sympathies on the passing of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. Justice O’Connor lived a remarkable life and leaves an extraordinary legacy. Her decades of distinguished service as the first woman to sit on the Supreme Court showed the nation that there are no limits to what women can do and achieve in the law — and opened countless doors for those who came after her. Her opinions for the Court reflect her formidable intellect and profound wisdom; they will shape the law for years to come. And her integrity, independence, and dedication to public service will continue to inspire all those who knew and admired her.”
Seminole Resident Sentenced for Involuntary Manslaughter and Federal Drug and Firearms CrimesRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Mr Lee Benton, a/k/a Mister Lee Benton, a/k/a Lee Benton, age 39, of Seminole, Oklahoma, was sentenced to a total of 144 months in prison for involuntary manslaughter and federal drug and firearms charges.
Benton was sentenced to 84 months imprisonment on one count of Involuntary Manslaughter, one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, and one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Those sentences will be served concurrently. Benton was also sentenced to a consecutive 60 months of imprisonment for one count of Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime.
The charges arose from investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office.
On February 18, 2022, Benton pleaded guilty to all four charges. According to investigators, on November 24, 2020, while driving a pickup truck under the influence of methamphetamine, Benton failed to stop for a sedan signaling a left turn in the lane ahead. Benton crashed into the back of the sedan. The force of the impact propelled the sedan off the road, causing it to collide with a guardrail and overturn, killing a backseat passenger. Benton admitted to OHP troopers that he had used methamphetamine prior to the collision, and consented to a blood draw that confirmed the presence of the drug in his system. Troopers questioning Benton observed a pistol on the driver’s side floorboard and subsequently discovered 55 grams of methamphetamine intended for distribution in the vehicle. At the plea hearing, Benton, already a convicted felon at the time of the accident, admitted he had the firearm with him in the truck for the express purpose of protecting his drug business, and that on the date of the collision he knew he was prohibited from gun possession due to his prior felony conviction.
The crimes occurred in Seminole County, within the boundaries of the Seminole Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Timothy D. DeGiusti, U.S. District Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearings in Muskogee. Benton will remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
San Antonio Man Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in Prison for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man was sentenced in a federal court in San Antonio to 210 months in prison and ordered to pay $45,000 in restitution to nine victims for distributing child pornography.
According to court documents, for more than two decades, Carlos Fabian Velez, 52, used a peer-to-peer file sharing system to traffic in child sexual abuse material and distribute hundreds of files depicting children as young as infants and toddlers. Velez was arrested on March 28, 2022 and, on Aug. 23, 2023, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography.
“The sexual abuse and exploitation of children have horrific effects on the victims,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “Individuals like Mr. Velez, who choose to traffic child sexual abuse images, must understand that their choices have very serious consequences beyond a lengthy prison sentence.”
“Carlos Velez victimized some of our most vulnerable citizens for decades,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson for the FBI San Antonio Division. “This sentence is reflective of the FBI’s dedication to hold accountable predators who would exploit innocent children.”
The FBI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy Thompson 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. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Rostraver, PA Resident Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Conviction of Wire FraudRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Rostraver, PA has been sentenced in federal court to 30 months in prison and 1 year of supervised release on her conviction of wire fraud, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Patty Lynn Mavrakis, 65, of Rostraver, PA.
According to information presented to the court, Mavrakis was a Branch Manager for Valley 1st Community Federal Credit Union and, in September 2016, she embezzled $399,230.00 from the credit union. In order to conceal the theft, she intentionally started a fire in the credit union’s safe and claimed a faulty wire caused the fire and destroyed the missing currency. In the days following the fire, she made a fraudulent insurance claim on behalf of the credit union for the missing currency.
She further made numerous false statements to law enforcement as they investigated the embezzlement and fire. Finally, the court was advised that Mavrakis likely used the embezzled funds on gambling, as she lost approximately four times her annual salary in the months following the embezzlement and fire.
Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Mavrakis.
Rolling Hills Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Distributing Fentanyl-Laced Pills that Caused High School Freshman’s DeathRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A South Bay man, who in May 2020 distributed fentanyl-laced pills to a 15-year-old boy and mocked the victim online as he was dying of an overdose, was sentenced today to 240 months in federal prison.
Alexander Declan Bell Wilson, 23, of Rolling Hills, was sentenced by United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha, who also ordered Wilson to pay $2,364 in restitution. Judge Aenlle-Rocha also ordered Wilson, upon his release from prison, to be placed on supervised release for 12 years.
At the conclusion of a five-day trial, a jury on May 19 found Wilson guilty of one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. Wilson has been in federal custody since May 2021.
On the evening on May 14, 2020, Wilson agreed to distribute five Percocet pills to the victim. Evidence seized from the victim’s cellphone shows he believed the pills were authentic pharmaceutical pills that contained the opioid oxycodone.
At around 11:30 p.m. that night, the victim’s 13-year-old brother met Wilson outside the family’s house to pick up the five pills. Wilson then handed a plastic bag containing the pills to the victim’s brother through the window of Wilson’s vehicle. The victim’s brother took the bag from Wilson, went back inside the house, and gave the pills to the victim. Shortly afterward, the victim posted a photograph of the pills on his Snapchat social media account and then ingested the pills.
From approximately 1:50 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. on May 15, 2020, Wilson and the victim argued on Snapchat about the proper way to consume the pills Wilson had sold to the victim. During those chats, Wilson chastised the victim for chewing the pills, and then shared screenshots of their conversation with his Snapchat followers.
On the morning of May 15, 2020, the victim’s grandmother found him dead in his bedroom. Expert testimony at trial confirmed the victim’s death was caused solely due to fentanyl poisoning.
“After [the victim’s] death, [Wilson] showed no remorse for his crimes,” prosecutors argued in a sentencing memorandum. “To the contrary, he lied to police about his conduct, deleted incriminating evidence from his phone, and minimized his role in the offense. Indeed, [Wilson] blamed [the victim] for his own death, boasting that [the victim] ‘did that to himself.’”
The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Overdose Justice Task Force and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department investigated this matter.
The Overdose Justice Task Force is a project designed to investigate fatal fentanyl poisonings and identify the individuals who provided the fentanyl that directly caused the deaths. Under the Overdose Justice program for the DEA’s Los Angeles Field Division, DEA agents have established collaborative relationships with local law enforcement agencies across the seven counties that make up the Central District of California. Local authorities are almost always the first to respond to an overdose death, and DEA agents have provided training to dozens of local agencies to help them analyze evidence to determine if there are circumstances that might lead to a federal criminal prosecution.
Assistant United States Attorneys Ian V. Yanniello and Daniel H. Weiner of the General Crimes Section prosecuted this case.
Rochester man pleads guilty to making a false statement involving sunken vesselRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Vyacheslav S. Migitskiy, 33, a Ukrainian national living in Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Geraci to making a materially false statement. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that on August 25, 2022, Migitskiy towed a 25-foot Bayliner boat onto Lake Ontario with the intention of sinking the abandoned vessel. Migitskiy intentionally sunk the vessel without reporting his actions. The following day, on August 26, 2022, the partially submerged boat was discovered by civilian witnesses who reported the sinking to the United States Coast Guard, which resulted in an immediate search and rescue effort by the Coast Guard, the New York State Police, and other law enforcement agencies which included deployment of surface vessels, aircraft, and SCUBA search teams. The United States Coast Guard spent $14,194 during the search and rescue effort, while the New York State Police spent $1,248.
On October 4, 2022, Migitskiy was interviewed by a Special Agent with the United States Coast Guard, during which he falsely stated that he had donated the boat to unnamed individuals. Migitskiy further provided a false description of the individuals who took possession of the vessel, false information on how they removed the vessel from his property, and false information on what they did with the vessels’ trailer.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Coast Guard Investigative Service, under the direction of Joshua Packer, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Central Region, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Miklos Szoczei III, and the Gates Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert Long, the Rochester Fire Department, under the direction of Chief Stefano Napolitano, the Irondequoit Police Department, under the direction of Chief Scott Peters, and the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 18, 2024 at 3 p.m. before Judge Geraci.
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