Latest Records
Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
13 December 2023
Tampa Man Pleads Guilty to Three Robberies, Brandishing and Discharging A FirearmRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Donald Robert Smith (29, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to three separate Hobbs Act robberies, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to one of the robberies, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to another of the robberies. Smith faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the robbery offenses: a minimum mandatory sentence of 7 years, up to life, for brandishing the firearm; and a minimum of 10 years, up to life, for discharging the firearm. The latter two penalties are to run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment. Smith has also agreed to forfeit the firearm and ammunition traceable to the offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on August 1, 2022, Smith robbed a Tampa business utilizing a firearm and pointing it at business employees. Two days later, Smith robbed another Tampa business by pointing a firearm at the cashier and demanding money. During the investigation into the first two robberies, a search warrant for Smith’s vehicle was obtained and executed. Inside the vehicle, ATF agents located a Taurus 9mm handgun. This firearm was then linked by a shell casing to another robbery on August 1, 2022. In this robbery, Smith approached an individual as he was turning in his work truck for the night. Smith approached the victim and demanded his wallet. As Smith walked away, he discharged the firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney James Muench.
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.
Syracuse Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
UTICA, NEW YORK – Javier Bachiller, age 32, of Syracuse, New York, pled guilty today to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Carla Freedman and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division.
Bachiller admitted that on October 19, 2023, he possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in a Syracuse garage he was renting.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 11, 2024, in front of United States District Judge David N. Hurd. Bachiller faces a minimum of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life.
This case is being investigated by the DEA, with assistance from the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, the Syracuse Police Department, the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, and the New York State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown is prosecuting this case.
Stockton Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Heroin and Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Frank Jonathan Guzman, 31, of Stockton, was sentenced Tuesday to 10 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between November 2018 and December 2019, Guzman and co‑defendant Jose Cruz Ivan Aispuro, 38, of Stockton, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 1 kilogram of heroin and at least 400 grams of counterfeit pharmaceutical pills containing fentanyl. As part of this conspiracy, on three occasions Guzman sold heroin to an undercover agent and another person and also sold 500 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl to the undercover agent. Agents executed a search warrant at Guzman’s residence in Stockton and seized approximately 10,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and 2.8 kilograms of heroin.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service and the San Joaquin Metropolitan Drug Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney David W. Spencer is prosecuting the case.
On Sept. 26, 2023, Aispuro pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl. Aispuro is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on Jan. 9, 2024.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.
State Revocation Warrant Leads to Federal Gun Charges for Carroll Plantation ManRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Carroll Plantation man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Bangor to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court records, in November 2022, a Maine State Police trooper arrested Jason Levasseur, 47, for a state probation revocation after recognizing Levasseur’s pickup truck at a gas station in Danforth. The trooper ordered Levasseur to get on the ground and restrained him. The trooper removed a sheathed knife from Levasseur’s belt and asked whether he was carrying a gun. Levasseur indicated there was a firearm in the truck, and the officer retrieved a .458-caliber rifle wrapped in a blanket from the backseat. The rifle had two rounds in the magazine and one round in the chamber.
Levasseur is precluded from possessing firearms due to previous convictions in May and July 2022. He has three prior state convictions for illegal possession of a firearm.
Levasseur faces up to 15 years in prison, a fine up to $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Maine State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
###
St. Louis Felon Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison After Being Caught with a GunRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge John A. Ross on Wednesday sentenced a convicted felon from St. Louis, Missouri to 15 years in prison after he was caught with a handgun.
Doctavious Pegues, 39, pleaded guilty in September to being a felon in possession of a firearm. He admitted that on Oct. 7, 2021, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to reports of a domestic disturbance in the 3700 block of Phillips Place. They were speaking with Pegues’ girlfriend when multiple gunshots were fired in a nearby gangway.
Police found Pegues hiding in a bedroom closet at his aunt’s house in the 3600 block of Winnebago, one block away. Officers found a Canik 9mm semiautomatic pistol on the landing of the home’s rear stairwell and multiple spent 9mm cartridge casings in the gangway. Pegues’ fingerprint was found on the pistol.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Martin is prosecuting the case.
Southwest Georgia Men Sentenced in Gang-Related Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – Two members of the Gangster Disciples street gang who are career offenders were sentenced to prison resulting from a GBI-led investigation into armed drug trafficking.
Jason Patterson, 44, of Americus, Georgia, and Quintavious Miller, 28, of Ellaville, Georgia, were sentenced as career offenders by U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner on Dec. 12. Patterson was sentenced to 96 months in prison and Miller was sentenced to 60 months in prison, both terms of imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release. Both defendants pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine on Aug. 2. The defendants are not eligible for parole.
“Gang-related armed drug trafficking will not be tolerated in Americus, Ellaville or any place in the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Cases like this one illustrate the strong collaboration between law enforcement to bring those causing the most criminal disruption to justice and work ceaselessly for safer communities for all.”
“Drug and gang-related crimes cause severe damage to Georgia communities. This case exemplifies the hard work of the GBI’s Southwestern Regional Drug Enforcement Office and our local and federal law enforcement partners,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey.
“The successful result of this investigation should let career gang members know that DEA will use all of its resources to destroy their violent drug distribution networks,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division.
“ATF and our partners are committed to pursuing and prosecuting the most troublesome criminal offenders to protect the communities we serve,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka.
“This case is a great example of what can be accomplished when local, state and federal agencies work together to address crime in our community,” said Americus Police Department Chief Mark Scott.
According to court documents, during an investigation into gang-related drug trafficking and other criminal activities in the Americus region, GBI investigators, working alongside DEA, purchased quantities of cocaine powder and crack cocaine from the defendants using a confidential informant and an undercover agent beginning in May 2021 through August 2021. Both defendants are members of the Gangster Disciples. On Aug. 11, 2021, GBI executed search warrants at four locations belonging to the defendants in Americus (Sumter County, Georgia) and Ellaville (Schley County, Georgia). At Patterson’s residence at 210 Tom Hall Circle in Americus, agents found more than $30,000 cash on Patterson and under his bed; a firearm reported stolen from Lee County, Georgia; marijuana; a digital scale and packaging materials commonly used to illegally distribute drugs; and multiple cell phones that both Patterson and Miller used to communicate. At Miller’s apartment and trailer located in Ellaville, agents found quantities of cocaine base; marijuana; cash; and a Gangster Disciple flyer. Patterson has multiple prior felony convictions in Sumter County, Georgia, Superior Court and Miller has at least two prior felony convictions in Schley County, Georgia, Superior Court.
The case was investigated by GBI, DEA, ATF, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office and Americus Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid prosecuted the case for the Government.
Simon City Royals Gang Member Sentenced to over 21 Years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Meridian, Mississippi man and Simon City Royals gang member was sentenced to 262 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute approximately 630 grams of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Jeremy Lovell, 45, was found in possession of approximately 630 grams of methamphetamine and two firearms during the execution of a search warrant at his residence on May 3, 2022. Through the investigation, law enforcement determined that from 2020 to 2022, Lovell distributed more than 104 pounds of methamphetamine in Lauderdale County. Lovell has prior convictions for burglary of a commercial building and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi and Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives made the announcement.
The Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, East Mississippi Drug Task Force, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and the ATF investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam T. Stuart prosecuted the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Shasta County Resident Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Deborah Gwen Orrey, 54, of Anderson, was sentenced Tuesday to 18 months in prison for making and subscribing a false tax return, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Orrey was the owner and operator of Affordable Tax, Bankruptcy, and Bookkeeping. For tax years 2013 to 2016, Orrey submitted tax returns to the Internal Revenue Service that contained incorrect information including, education credits, inflated medical expenses, and other inflated or non-existent business expenses. Orrey owed to the IRS an additional $112,083 for these years. Orrey also willfully falsified information on tax returns that she filed on her clients’ behalf. She split the refunds due to her clients without their knowledge, causing a portion of the clients’ refunds to be deposited to her own bank account. Eight of her clients suffered an actual loss of a total of $3,729. Orrey was ordered to pay $115,362 in restitution, which is the total loss to the IRS.
This case was the product of an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise N. Yasinow prosecuted the case.
Seven Individuals Arrested on Drug, Gun, and Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Federal agents arrested seven individuals today on drug, gun, and fraud charges, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona, Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley, and Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson.
In November 2023, a federal grand jury indicted ten individuals on drug, gun, and fraud charges.
Jamar Dariunte Clay, 36, of Anniston, was charged with conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, multiple counts of distribution of methamphetamine, and multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime.
Jonathan Tyree McRath, 39, of Anniston, was charged with conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, multiple counts of distribution of methamphetamine, and multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime.
Demarcus Sharon Brown, 39, of Anniston, was charged with conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and multiple counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
Donarius Quinez Kincaid, 38, of Anniston, was charged with conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime.
Brandon Jamal Jernigan, 30, of Anniston, was charged with conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime.
Hantson Alexander Clark, 32, of Tuscaloosa, was charged with conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl, and multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime.
Raregus Rice, 40, of Tuscaloosa, was charged with wire fraud and falsely representing a Social Security number.
The following three defendants were already in custody.
Michael Gardner Boone, 33, of Montgomery, was charged with conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Terrence Antwon Stevens, 40, of Anniston, was charged with conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Yannick Kenyon Woolf, 34, of Anniston, was charged with conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl and multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime.
The maximum penalty for distribution of a controlled substance and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is life in prison. The maximum penalty for use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime is four years in prison and for being a felon in possession of a firearm is fifteen years in prison. The maximum penalty for wire fraud is twenty years in prison, and the maximum penalty for falsely representing a Social Security number is five years in prison.
DEA and ATF investigated the case, along with the Anniston Police Department, Oxford Police Department, 7th Judicial Major Crimes Unit, and West Alabama Narcotics Task Force. The USMS provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys M. Blake Milner and Brittany Byrd are prosecuting the case.
An indictment contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Sells Man Sentenced to over 20 Years for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Jeremy Espuma, 31, of Sells, was sentenced Monday by United States District Judge Scott H. Rash to 248 months in prison for child exploitation offenses. Espuma, a member of the Tohono O’odham Nation, pleaded guilty to Child Exploitation by way of Production of Child Pornography on March 22, 2023. Upon release from prison, Espuma will be placed on lifetime supervised release with sex offender conditions and will be required to register as a sex offender.
The case against Espuma arose after undercover agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation discovered that he was sharing child exploitation material online. A subsequent investigation led to the identification of a child victim that Espuma had sexually abused. Espuma had also distributed images of the child and offered access to the child in exchange for money in the online forum where he was found by law enforcement. The investigation also led to the identification of another individual with whom Espuma shared the images. That offender, Kyle Adam Haney, was sentenced to 120 months in prison on August 31, 2023.
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.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation in Tucson, Arizona and Knoxville, Tennessee, and the Tohono O’Odham Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carin Duryee and Scott Turk, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-02971-TUC-SHR
RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-198_Espuma# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/q
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Remaining Defendants Sentenced in Deadly Fentanyl Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – The remaining defendants in a deadly fentanyl distribution network were sentenced to federal prison today for a variety of crimes including conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, carrying firearms in furtherance of the distribution of fentanyl, and distribution of fentanyl resulting in death or serious bodily injury.
A total of eleven defendants were sentenced in the Southern District of Iowa as follows:
- Kyrell Deshawn Wells, 21, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced to 360 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl on October 18, 2023;
- Ja’cara P. Baker, 42, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced to 300 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl on October 18, 2023;
- Alejandro Diaz, 34, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced to 216 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl Resulting in Death or Serious Bodily Injury, and Carrying a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime on March 16, 2023;
- Janelle Lee Cline, 31, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced to 156 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl Resulting in Death or Serious Bodily Injury on February 16, 2023;
- Christian Blaize Arman, 29, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced to 42 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl on December 12, 2023;
- Edward James Arman, 32, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced to 42 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl on December 12, 2023;
- Samantha Mae Neemann, 35, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced to 168 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl Resulting in Death or Serious Bodily Injury on April 13, 2023;
- Hai D. Nguyen, 30, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced to 45 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl on April 13, 2023;
- Megan Kayleen Johnson, 27, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, was sentenced to 168 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl Resulting in Death or Serious Bodily Injury on March 16, 2023;
- Richard Andrew Null, 26, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, sentenced to 150 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl, and Carrying a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime on December 12, 2023; and
- Jarik Mathew McPherson, 30, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, sentenced to 120 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl on December 12, 2023.
This investigation began in January 2022, after the Council Bluffs Police and Fire Departments responded to a Council Bluffs residence where an adult female had overdosed on fentanyl. After that victim died, law enforcement began a lengthy investigation into individuals who were actively conspiring to distribute fentanyl in the Omaha and Council Bluffs metro area. Ultimately, investigators identified Kyrell Wells and Ja’cara Baker as the primary distributors of fentanyl to others, including the members of the conspiracy listed above. The fentanyl pills distributed by this organization in the Omaha, Lincoln, and Council Bluffs areas resulted in at least eleven overdoses and six deaths. Kyrell Wells, Alejandro Diaz, Hai Nguyen, and Richard Null were also found in possession of firearms.
Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel said “The Kyrell Wells fentanyl trafficking organization received and distributed more than 10,000 fentanyl pills every five days. The organization was connected to more than seventeen overdoses. Six people in our community died. The FBI and our local, state, and federal partners are dedicated to disrupting and dismantling the most significant drug trafficking organizations in our community.”
This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force, Omaha Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the FBI.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.
Fentanyl has become the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Counterfeit, fentanyl-laced pills often resemble pharmaceutical pills, but contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. Visit the Drug Enforcement Administration’s website to learn more about One Pill Can Kill.
Providence Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing More than Forty Grams of FentanylRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A 31-year-old Providence man was sentenced today to five years and 1 day in federal prison for possessing more than 40 grams of fentanyl and a firearm less than a week after he pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to distribute anabolic steroids, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
According to charging documents, Mason A. Nieves was convicted in February 2021 of participating in a conspiracy that distributed significantly more than 60,000 units of steroids. Less than a week later, a court-authorized search of Nieves’ residence conducted by members of the Rhode Island State Police High Intensity Drug Area (HIDTA) Task Force found Nieves in possession of 251 grams of fentanyl. The search also recovered drug packaging materials; a loaded firearm located under Nieves’ bed; and $1,591 in cash.
Nieves pleaded guilty on February 15, 2023, to a charge of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. He was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., to 60 months and one day of incarceration to be followed by four years of federal supervised release.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christine D. Lowell and G. Michael Seaman.
Together with Department of Homeland Security, Rhode Island State Police, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Mansfield Police Department and North Attleboro Police Departments in Massachusetts, this case was investigated and prosecuted in federal court as 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. In 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.
Portland Man Pleads Guilty in Federal Court for Role in Overdose Death of Portland TeenagerRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A local man pleaded guilty in federal court today for distributing fentanyl that caused the overdose death of a Portland teenager.
Tanner Welsh, 20, a Portland resident, pleaded guilty to one count of distributing fentanyl to a person under the age of twenty-one.
According to court documents, on November 10, 2022, officers from the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) responded to a fatal overdose of a 17-year-old teenager. Investigating officers located several small blue pills near the teenager’s body they believed were counterfeit Oxycodone pills containing fentanyl. An autopsy later confirmed the teenager died from fentanyl poisoning.
Further investigation revealed that the teenager had exchanged several text messages with Welsh shortly before overdosing in response to an online ad posted by Welsh offering the sale of controlled substances. Investigators also learned that Welsh had personally traveled to the teenager’s house to deliver the fentanyl pills.
On January 24, 2024, special agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) located and arrested Welsh who admitted selling fentanyl and Xanax pills to the deceased teenager.
On February 8, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland indicted Welsh on one count of possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl. Later, on November 30, 2023, he was charged by superseding criminal information with distributing fentanyl to a person under the age of twenty-one.
Distributing fentanyl to a person under the age of twenty-one is punishable by up to 40 years in prison, a $2 million fine, and six years of supervised release.
Welsh will be sentenced on March 13, 2023, by U.S. District Court Judge Adrienne Nelson.
As part of his plea agreement, Welsh has agreed to pay restitution in full to a designated family member of his deceased victim as requested by the government and ordered by the court.
This case was investigated by PPB and HSI and was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
Police Detective and Former School Resource Officer Indicted on Child Sex Abuse Material ChargesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A federal grand jury in Columbia returned an 18-count indictment against Daniel Paul Shealy, 35, of Rock Hill, charging distribution of child sexual abuse materials (12 counts) and receipt of child sexual abuse materials (6 counts).
The indictment alleges that Shealy was a certified law enforcement officer in the state of South Carolina, and that during that time he held the rank of Detective in a police department’s Criminal Investigative Division and that he served as a School Resource Officer assigned to a local public school. The indictment also alleges that Shealy created and operated an account on a social media platform and that he used a cellular device recovered from his department-issued patrol car, both to distribute and receive child sex abuse materials. The indictment alleges Shealy distributed 13 child sex abuse videos and that he received six child sex abuse videos, all between June 2 and Sept. 17, 2023, and that the videos were between five seconds in length and one minute and 43 seconds in length.
Each count charged carries a mandatory minimum of five years in federal prison and a maximum of 20 years in federal prison. Shealy also faces up to lifetime federal supervision following any other penalty, registration as a sex offender, and monetary penalties.
Shealy waived his right to a bond and was ordered detained pending trial by United States Magistrate Judge Shiva V. Hodges. He has the right to ask for a bond at a later time.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, the York County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Carolina ICAC (Internet Crimes Against Children) Task Force at the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elliott B. Daniels and Elle E. Klein are prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs stated that all charges in the indictment are merely accusations and that defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
###
Pittsburgh Resident Indicted on Federal Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges that he defrauded customers of his snow and ice removal business, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
The nine-count Indictment named Charles W. Lantzman, 50, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from December 2018 through March 2019, Lantzman engaged in a scheme to defraud customers by padding the bills of customers with charges for services that were not performed. The Indictment specifically charges six counts of wire fraud. Lantzman is also charged with three counts of money laundering, occurring between December 2018 and March 2019.
For each of the wire fraud counts, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 or twice the gross gain to any person or loss to any person other than the defendant, or both. The law also provides for a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than 10 years, as well as a potential fine, on each of the money laundering counts. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pharmacy Burglary Conspirators Arraigned Tuesday in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK— Eighteen individuals from Texas who are accused of stealing more than $1.5 million worth of narcotics from numerous pharmacies in Arkansas were arrested in Houston on November 28, 2023, following an indictment returned in the Eastern District of Arkansas. Seven defendants appeared on charges Tuesday before United States Magistrate Judge Patricia S. Harris, and the remaining defendants are set to appear before United States Magistrate Judge Edie R. Ervin in Little Rock on January 16, 2024. The indictment charges conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute Schedule II through V controlled substances, as well as pharmacy burglary, conspiracy to commit pharmacy burglary, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Keith Brown, 34, of Houston, Texas, and 17 others were named in this indictment related to “Operation #Richoffmeds.”
From February 2022 to November 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration Little Rock District Office (DEA LRDO) identified more than 20 pharmacy burglaries and thefts of pharmaceutical narcotics in Arkansas. In each of the burglaries, the suspects used similar methods of entry and tools, as well as matching clothing and unique footwear. The stolen pharmaceuticals—including oxycodone, hydrocodone, alprazolam, and promethazine with codeine cough syrup—were transported to Houston, Texas, where they were sold illicitly.
Intelligence developed by the DEA LRDO and the Houston Police Department Northeast Division Crime Suppression Team identified the drug trafficking organization as being comprised of documented local gang members from the 5th Ward area in Houston, Texas. The current case is similar in kind and scope to a previous case indicted in the Eastern District of Arkansas in 2016, in which 24 members of a local Houston 5th Ward gang, ‘The Trill Fam’, were prosecuted for multi-state pharmacy burglaries and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. During the present investigation, over 96,000 tablets of Schedule II controlled substances were stolen. The street value of all controlled substances stolen by the organization in the Arkansas burglaries is valued at close to $1.6 million. Investigators also seized six firearms, approximately $79,000 in U.S. currency, and custom jewelry retailing approximately $330,000.
“These defendants broke into pharmacies across Arkansas to steal narcotics that they then peddled on the streets,” stated Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “This case exemplifies the hard work put in by federal, state, and local agencies working together to infiltrate and dismantle violent gangs whose main mission is for profit and the destruction of communities. Our office is committed to prosecuting these defendants, and others like them, to the fullest extent of the law.”
“As alleged, these defendants went to extreme lengths to steal prescription drugs from a multitude of victim pharmacies,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley. “The criminal enterprise sought to profit off the people of Arkansas by diverting nearly 100,000 dosages away from those with legitimate medical needs. These defendants were likely driven by money, but the cost to public health and safety is priceless. DEA is committed to investigating the diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals and ensuring all Americans can access needed medications.”
The defendants arrested include Brown, Antoinen Hampton, 37, Donald Spencer, 34, Marcus Hargrove, 31, Reginald Jackson, 32, Vernon Baloney, Jr., 33, Edwin Burks, 50, Nicklaus Franklin, 31, Louis Johnson, III, 24, Nathan Kibble, 40, Joshua Delaney, 43, Fernando Riascos, Jr., 36, Alexis Garner, 31, Daron Livingston, 32, Jaiden Fowler, 23, Joshua Griffin, 21, Cierra Jackson, 30, and Jasmane Lincoln, 34, all from the greater Houston, Texas area.
The maximum sentence for the drug charges is not more than 20 years in federal prison.
Investigators with the DEA LRDO worked in conjunction with the following law enforcement partners:
DEA New Orleans Division (Little Rock District Office, Fayetteville Resident Office, Shreveport Resident Office, Mobile Resident Office),
DEA Special Operations Division,
DEA Houston Division (Houston TDS Group, Galveston Resident Office),
DEA Omaha Division,
DEA Rocky Mountain Division (Salt Lake City District Office, Cheyenne Resident Office),
DEA Atlanta Division (Columbia District Office),
DEA Miami Division (Pensacola District Office),
FBI Little Rock Field Office,
FBI Cast Team,
U.S. Marshals Service,
Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics,
Harris County Sheriff’s Office,
League City Police Department (Dickinson, TX),
Houston Police Department Northeast Division Crime Suppression Team,
Houston Police Department CID, and
Arkansas State Police.
The case is being prosecuted in the Eastern District of Arkansas by Assistant United States Attorney Anne Gardner.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
An indictment contains only allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
# # #
Additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
X (formerly known as Twitter):
@EDARNEWS
Oswego County Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Tyler Ager, age 30, of Oswego County, New York, pled guilty today to possession of child pornography. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.
Ager admitted that in May 2023 and June 2023, he possessed child pornography on his phone and that he uploaded a child pornography file to a public website where adults chat with other adults. He also admitted that, in April 2021, he was convicted of sexual abuse in the second degree in Parish Town Court. His offense conduct in that case involved him having a 4-year-old minor touch his penis. He received a term of probation, which he was serving when he committed the offense to which he pled guilty today
Sentencing is scheduled for April 17, 2024, before United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby. Ager faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison, a maximum term of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of between 5 years and up to life. Ager also will have to pay restitution to any identified victims, forfeit the property he used to commit the offense, and will be required to register as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant violated, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
This case was investigated by the FBI Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force, comprised of FBI Special Agents and Investigators of the New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Gadarian is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Orchard Park man sentenced for marijuana conspiracyRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Kevin Judge, 65, of Orchard Park, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, marijuana, was sentenced to time served and two years’ supervised release by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that Judge was a drug trafficking associate of co-defendant Gary Wolch. Judge traveled to secure marijuana for the drug trafficking operation and coordinated with other associates and conspirators to obtain marijuana for distribution in the Western New York area. On August 16, 2019, Judge arrived at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, where he was approached by investigators at his gate and his bags were detained. After initial questioning, Judge was taken back to his vehicle in the parking lot. Once back in his vehicle, Judge contacted Wolch and said, “There’s a problem.” He then called other associates and co-conspirators. During the execution of a search warrant on Judge’s bags, law enforcement recovered $60,000 in U.S. currency and $40,000 in Western Union Money Orders. Judge admits he was attempting to go to Southern California with $100,000 to purchase marijuana. Wolch was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Orchard Park Police Department, under the direction of Chief Patrick Fitzgerald, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
# # # #
New Charges in Case Related to Two-Year-Old Child in Lansing Who Died After Accidental Discharge of GunRead the Press Release
Child’s death reflects larger crisis: gun violence has now become the #1 cause of death among children and teenagers
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a grand jury has returned an indictment charging Avis Damone Coward with being a felon in possession of a firearm, conspiracy to tamper with evidence, and tampering with evidence. Coward was previously charged in a complaint that alleged that an accidental discharge of Coward’s gun led to a two-year-old child’s death.
Two other Lansing residents were also charged in the indictment. Emma Huver, 26, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Gina Schieberl, 26, is charged with conspiracy to tamper with evidence and tampering with evidence. A copy of the indictment is attached.
“For the first time ever, gun violence is the leading cause of death for kids in America,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Nothing more horribly illustrates this crisis than the death of an innocent two-year-old child. The cure demands an all-hands approach and my office will play its part by ensuring accountability for those who put children in harm’s way.”
As alleged, on October 24, 2023, Avis Coward got out of a car at a Lansing gas station and went inside, leaving a two-year-old child and his mother, Ms. Huver, in the car. Surveillance video showed that a minute later, a bullet hole appeared in the car window. The mother got out of the car holding her child, who had blood on his face from a gunshot wound. As she did so, Coward’s gun fell out of the car. Huver handed the child to Coward, who then passed the child to a third person who took the victim into the gas station and attempted to control the bleeding until medical personnel arrived. Coward returned to the car, picked up the gun off the ground, and put it back in the car. The surveillance video also showed Coward use his hand to break out the front passenger window, which had the bullet hole. Coward then drove away. The child later died from his injuries.
The tampering charges concern attempts by Defendant Coward and Schieberl to hide or destroy evidence in this case, including the car, which was later found burned-out and abandoned in a field in Lansing, and a .45 caliber Springfield Armory semiautomatic pistol, the barrel of which was found disassembled and hidden in the wall of a house in Lansing.
“The allegations in this case represent the most horrific side of gun ownership and the tragic unintended consequences associated with poor choices. Avis Coward is prohibited from lawfully possessing a firearm. He chose to possess an illegal firearm and to leave a loaded firearm unsecured in a vehicle with a toddler in it,” said Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “In the aftermath, as alleged, Avis Coward chose to tamper with evidence in an attempt to avoid blame in this dreadful situation.”
“We are thankful for the support of U.S. Attorney Mark Totten and his office against the gun crime that has had a grip on the Lansing area for too long,” said Lansing Police Chief Ellery Sosebee. “Our community deserves better, and with partnerships like this, we are moving in the right direction to combat the gun issues faced every day in this city, state, and country.”
“Gun violence is a national crisis and the leading cause of death of our children so it’s best to have strong law enforcement partnerships to address this crisis and protect our children,” said Ingham County Prosecuting Attorney John J. Dewane. “Locally and nationally, we have far too many senseless, preventable deaths because of children having access to firearms. No child should ever have access to a loaded firearm. No child should ever be in danger of being shot under any circumstances. My office, in collaboration with U. S. Attorney’s Office, will hold offenders accountable when children are victims of gun violence.”
“Gun violence is a public health concern,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, State of Michigan Chief Medical Executive. “Many of the strategies that have been used to impact motor vehicle accidents and tobacco use—including education and community outreach—can be applied to community violence prevention. Let’s work together to keep Michigan children and families safe.”
Gun violence is an acute problem across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. firearm homicide rate in 2021 was the highest documented since 1993. While the numbers have slightly declined since 2021, they remain high.
In 2021, for the first time ever, firearm-related injuries became the leading cause of death for American children, ages 1-19, according to the New England Journal of Medicine (see also here).
While gun violence has the potential to impact everyone, recent studies show that gun violence has a disparate impact on people of color. For example, a recent study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association, shows that the disparity in shooting injuries among children before and after the pandemic in four major cities approximately tripled as between white children and children of color (Black, Hispanic, Asian).This week, in conjunction with the Justice Department’s Violent Crime Reduction Summit, the Department released a Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap, which outlines ten actionable steps to help reduce gun violence and identifies federal resources to support these efforts.
This case was investigated by the Lansing Police Department, Michigan State Police, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program bringing together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
###
Michigan Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for Traveling to Minnesota to Have Sex with a MinorRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Michigan man has been sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release, required to pay restitution to the victim, and ordered to pay $5,000 to the Domestic Victim Trafficking Fund for interstate travel with the intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to his plea agreement, in late 2022, Maxwell Winston Beardsley, 22, met a young teenager on Omegle, a free online chat website that does not require user registration. Although the minor immediately identified as such, Beardsley lied and said he was 16 years old and then proceeded to pursue a romantic relationship with the minor victim. Over the course of several months, Beardsley exchanged sexually explicit materials with the minor victim and engaged in sexually explicit conversations. On January 27, 2023, Beardsley drove from Michigan to Minnesota for the express purpose of meeting the minor victim to engage in sex.
On July 19, 2023, Beardsley pleaded guilty to one count of interstate travel with the intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor. He was sentenced in U.S. District Court by Judge Nancy E. Brasel on December 11, 2023.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Lakeville Police Department in Minnesota, and the Oakland County Sheriff's Office in Michigan. It 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. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing prosecuted the case.
Mexican National Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Unlawful Return after Removal and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Mexican man was sentenced to 24 months in prison for unlawful return to the United States after removal, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
According to court documents, on March 23, 2023, the Pearl Police Department received a report of an intoxicated man with a gun at a Pearl apartment complex. Law enforcement officers responded to the area and located Antonio Andrade-Hernandez, 36, with a gun pointed at his own head. Law enforcement officers were able to get Andrade-Hernandez to surrender peacefully. A records check revealed that Andrade-Hernandez was an illegal alien who had previously been removed from the United States. Additionally, since Andrade-Hernandez is a Mexican national illegally in the United States, it is contrary to federal law for him to possess any firearm.
On April 4, 2023, Andrade-Hernandez was indicted by a federal grand jury. He subsequently pled guilty to unlawful return after removal and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Acting Special Agent in Charge Eric DeLaune of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Pearl Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam T. Stuart prosecuted the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
McKees Rocks Resident Pleads Guilty to a Charge of Theft of Mail by an Officer or EmployeeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of McKees Rocks, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of mail by an officer or employee of the United States Postal Service, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
India Schatzman, age 49, of McKees Rocks, PA, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on December 30, 2022, Schatzman, who was a postal employee at the Pittsburgh Process and Distribution Center, was surveilled by inspectors of the Postal Inspection Service stealing a Visa gift card from a greeting card intended for a recipient in the State of Washington.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for April 19, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Schatzman.
Massachusetts Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Boston, Massachusetts man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Concord for conspiring to distribute fentanyl in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Victor Cuevas Romero, 27, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, namely, fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott scheduled sentencing for April 3, 2024. The defendant was originally charged on June 6, 2023.
On May 19, 2023, at law enforcement’s direction, a cooperating source called a number that law enforcement knew to be operated by a drug trafficking organization and placed an order for fentanyl. The individual who answered the phone, who was not the defendant, directed the confidential source to an address on Belmont Street in Manchester to make the drug transaction. The confidential source went to the address, and shortly thereafter, the defendant drove there and picked up the cooperating source in his car. Inside his car, the defendant provided the cooperating source with fentanyl in exchange for $100.
The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $1,000,000. 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.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Gingrande and Jarad Hodes are prosecuting the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
###
Man Who Sparked Police Standoff in Shrewsbury Sentenced to 13+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark on Wednesday sentenced a convicted felon caught repeatedly with a firearm, including after a standoff with police, to 13 years and nine months in prison.
Stephen Joseph Diani, 49, of St. Louis, Missouri, pleaded guilty in June to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and admitted being caught with a gun three times.
On Sept. 8, 2021, St. Louis County Police Department officers were investigating whether the car Diani was driving was stolen because the license plate wasn’t registered to the vehicle. When Diani opened the driver’s door, they spotted a 9mm handgun between the door and the seat and what turned out to be cocaine base and heroin in plastic bags in the car.
On Sept. 23, 2021, Diani was arrested after St. Louis County police responded to calls about someone walking through a neighborhood checking car door handles. After police spotted Diani inside someone else’s SUV, he ran but was caught. In his car, officers found a .223 caliber rifle and tools that had been stolen from a nearby resident’s truck that evening.
In December of 2021 and January of 2022, police in Shrewsbury and St. Louis were investigating a series of burglaries in St. Louis near the Shrewsbury border and were monitoring Diani’s use of a storage unit in Shrewsbury. They also received a tip that Diani threatened to kill officers or himself rather than going back to jail.
On Jan. 12, 2022, Shrewsbury police spotted Diani’s car at the storage unit, called for backup and attempted to detain him. Diani tried to close the door of the storage unit but was prevented from doing so by an officer, sparking a 38-minute standoff with police. Diani placed his hand on a handgun if police approached, constructed a makeshift barricade and repeatedly told police to kill him. Officers successfully negotiated with Diani to allow a man who had responded to an internet ad about tools for sale to leave the unit. As he left, officers leaped the barricade and tackled Diani, who continued to resist officers’ attempts to arrest him.
At least one officer was injured when he jumped the barricade and landed among the stolen tools and equipment in the storage unit.
The Shrewsbury Police Department, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Dunkel prosecuted the case.
Man Sentenced to More Than 6 Years in Prison for Drug and Gun Offenses, Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BRANDEN HUERTAS, 42, formerly of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 75 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for narcotics distribution and firearm possession offenses, and for violating the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2020, law enforcement made two controlled purchases of cocaine from Huertas. Huertas was arrested on February 26, 2020, after a search of his vehicle revealed quantities of heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, and ecstasy, and a subsequent search of his residence revealed additional quantities of crack and heroin, items used to process and package narcotics for street sale, a loaded 9mm Taurus PT-92C semi-automatic handgun, and additional rounds of ammunition.
Huertas has a criminal history that spans 25 years and includes state convictions for drug, weapon, robbery, burglary and larceny offenses, and federal convictions in 2015 for possession of firearm by a felon, and in 2019 for escape from custody. Huertas was on federal supervised release at the time of his arrest in January 2020.
On April 26, 2021, Huertas pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and one count of possession a firearm by a felon.
In April 2022, Huertas’ sentencing was continued to allow him to continue drug and mental health treatment, and it was subsequently again continued after Huertas was admitted to Support Court.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on June 19, 2023, Huertas is suspected of being involved in a homicide of a 20-year-old man in South Carolina.
On July 10, 2023, law enforcement investigating attempted burglaries in Danbury on July 8 and in Southington on July 9 traced a vehicle used in the burglaries to a hotel in Danbury. It is alleged that investigators located Huertas and another individual within a room identified as belonging to the operators of the vehicle. As officers attempted to take the two men into custody, they both ran. Huertas’ associate began fighting with officers, resulting in two of the officers being transported to the hospital for injuries. Huertas and his associate were apprehended a short time later. A search of the hotel room revealed two firearms, including an assault-type rifle and a pistol.
Huertas has been detained in Connecticut state custody since July 10. State charges against him in South Carolina and Connecticut are pending.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut State Police, and Bridgeport Police Department, with the assistance of the Danbury Police Department and the Horry County (S.C.) Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Clark.
Man Sentenced for $11.4M Medicare and Medicaid Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A Louisiana man was sentenced today to three years in prison for his role in a multi-year scheme to bill Medicare and Medicaid for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (DME).
According to court documents, from January 2016 to June 2022, Craig L. Lovelace, of Destrehan, billed Medicare and Medicaid through his DME supply company, Advanced Medical Equipment, Inc. (AME), approximately $11.4 million for supplying respiratory support and nutritional support DME — including ventilators, tracheostomy supplies, and feeding tubes — that were not medically necessary or not provided as represented, and for which AME was paid approximately $7.96 million. Lovelace then directed the forgery of medical records, physician notes, and provider signatures in response to audits and record requests to cover up the scheme. Lovelace personally obtained over $3.4 million in proceeds from the scheme, which he used to pay for personal vehicles, personal chef services, events, and entertainment.
On Aug. 17, Lovelace pleaded guilty to health care fraud.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana, Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry made the announcement.
HHS-OIG and the Louisiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses for the Eastern District of Louisiana prosecuted the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Man Pleads Guilty to Concealing War Crime Charge in CroatiaRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – An Ohio man pleaded guilty today to possessing a green card he illegally obtained by concealing that he had been charged with a war crime in Croatia prior to emigrating to the United States.
According to court documents, Jugoslav Vidic, 55, of Parma Heights, in applying to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States, falsely stated that he had never been charged with breaking any law even though he knew he had been charged in Croatia with a war crime against the civilian population. Vidic also falsely stated that his only past military service was in the Yugoslav Army from 1988 to 1989 and omitting his service in the Serb Army of Krajina and its predecessors during the civil war in the former Yugoslavia from 1991 to 1995. As a result of these materially false statements, Vidic was approved for lawful permanent status and received a green card.
“Jugoslav Vidic knew he had been charged with a war crime, concealed that fact from U.S. immigration officials so he could enter the United States, and enjoyed lawful status in this country for nearly 20 years,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Thanks to the dedication of prosecutors, law enforcement, and our international partners, Vidic will serve prison time and then be removed from this country. His conviction demonstrates that no human rights violation is too distant for the Justice Department to seek accountability.”
“By pleading guilty, Jugoslav Vidic admitted that he lied in his application to become a lawful permanent U.S. resident, hiding the fact that he had been charged with and convicted in absentia of committing war crimes in Croatia,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “He also admitted to concealing his military service during the civil war in the former Yugoslavia, including in the specialized ‘Red Berets’ unit. Vidic tried to outrun his past, but today it caught up with him. Our country has long provided opportunities for refugees searching for a better life, but America extends that privilege with the expectation that applicants respect basic human rights and are truthful about their personal history. The Justice Department will hold accountable anyone, such as Vidic, who abuses our immigration system by trying to hide his crimes against humanity.”
Vidic was charged with a war crime in Croatia in 1994 and convicted in absentia in 1998. The Croatian court found that during an attack by ethnic Serb forces in Petrinja, Croatia, on Sept. 16, 1991, Vidic cut off the arm of civilian Stjepan Komes, who died afterward. Vidic knew about the Croatian charges when he immigrated to the United States as a refugee in 1999, applied to become a lawful permanent resident in 2000, and was interviewed by U.S. immigration officials and received his green card in 2005.
“This guilty plea underscores the importance of these complex investigations and the closure they can provide to victims’ families,” said Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “HSI special agents, along with our law enforcement partners both here in the United States and across the globe, will continue the vital work of ensuring that war criminals like Vidic can no longer hide from justice.”
“The FBI is committed to ensuring that perpetrators of war crimes find no safe haven in the United States and are held accountable for lying and fraudulently obtaining U.S. citizen privileges,” said Assistant Director Michael Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI will continue to work alongside our domestic and international partners to pursue justice — no matter how long it takes.”
Vidic pleaded guilty to one count of possessing an alien registration receipt card knowing it had been procured through materially false statements. He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29, 2024. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
As part of the plea agreement, Vidic agreed to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States. Vidic would be required to serve any sentence imposed in the United States before being removed.
HSI and the FBI are investigating the case with coordination provided by the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, including the FBI’s International Human Rights Unit. The Justice Departments thanks the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Justice and Public Administration of the Republic of Croatia, which were both instrumental in furthering the investigation.
Trial Attorney Patrick Jasperse of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Shepherd and Jerome J. Teresinski for the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided assistance.
Members of the public who have information about human rights violators in the United States are urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or through the FBI online tip form, or HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or through the ICE online tip form. All are staffed around the clock, and tips may be provided anonymously.
Man Pleads Guilty to Concealing War Crime Charge in CroatiaRead the Press Release
An Ohio man pleaded guilty today to possessing a green card he illegally obtained by concealing that he had been charged with a war crime in Croatia prior to emigrating to the United States.
According to court documents, Jugoslav Vidic, 55, of Parma Heights, in applying to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States, falsely stated that he had never been charged with breaking any law even though he knew he had been charged in Croatia with a war crime against the civilian population. Vidic also falsely stated that his only past military service was in the Yugoslav Army from 1988 to 1989 and omitting his service in the Serb Army of Krajina and its predecessors during the civil war in the former Yugoslavia from 1991 to 1995. As a result of these materially false statements, Vidic was approved for lawful permanent status and received a green card.
“Jugoslav Vidic knew he had been charged with a war crime, concealed that fact from U.S. immigration officials so he could enter the United States, and enjoyed lawful status in this country for nearly 20 years,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Thanks to the dedication of prosecutors, law enforcement, and our international partners, Vidic will serve prison time and then be removed from this country. His conviction demonstrates that no human rights violation is too distant for the Justice Department to seek accountability.”
“By pleading guilty, Jugoslav Vidic admitted that he lied in his application to become a lawful permanent U.S. resident, hiding the fact that he had been charged with and convicted in absentia of committing war crimes in Croatia,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “He also admitted to concealing his military service during the civil war in the former Yugoslavia, including in the specialized ‘Red Berets’ unit. Vidic tried to outrun his past, but today it caught up with him. Our country has long provided opportunities for refugees searching for a better life, but America extends that privilege with the expectation that applicants respect basic human rights and are truthful about their personal history. The Justice Department will hold accountable anyone, such as Vidic, who abuses our immigration system by trying to hide his crimes against humanity.”
Vidic was charged with a war crime in Croatia in 1994 and convicted in absentia in 1998. The Croatian court found that during an attack by ethnic Serb forces in Petrinja, Croatia, on Sept. 16, 1991, Vidic cut off the arm of civilian Stjepan Komes, who died afterward. Vidic knew about the Croatian charges when he immigrated to the United States as a refugee in 1999, applied to become a lawful permanent resident in 2000, and was interviewed by U.S. immigration officials and received his green card in 2005.
“This guilty plea underscores the importance of these complex investigations and the closure they can provide to victims’ families,” said Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “HSI special agents, along with our law enforcement partners both here in the United States and across the globe, will continue the vital work of ensuring that war criminals like Vidic can no longer hide from justice.”
“The FBI is committed to ensuring that perpetrators of war crimes find no safe haven in the United States and are held accountable for lying and fraudulently obtaining U.S. citizen privileges,” said Assistant Director Michael Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI will continue to work alongside our domestic and international partners to pursue justice — no matter how long it takes.”
Vidic pleaded guilty to one count of possessing an alien registration receipt card knowing it had been procured through materially false statements. He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29, 2024. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
As part of the plea agreement, Vidic agreed to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States. Vidic would be required to serve any sentence imposed in the United States before being removed.
HSI and the FBI are investigating the case with coordination provided by the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, including the FBI’s International Human Rights Unit. The Justice Departments thanks the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Justice and Public Administration of the Republic of Croatia, which were both instrumental in furthering the investigation.
Trial Attorney Patrick Jasperse of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Shepherd and Jerome J. Teresinski for the Northern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided assistance.
Members of the public who have information about human rights violators in the United States are urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or through the FBI online tip form, or HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or through the ICE online tip form. All are staffed around the clock, and tips may be provided anonymously.
Man Indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on December 8, 2023, ORLIAN CABRERA-JOA, age 31, was indicted for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
If convicted, CABRERA-JOA faces a minimum term of ten (10) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Man Indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on December 8, 2023, ANACLETO SILVA-HERRERA, a/k/a “Chofer,” age 37, was indicted for possession with intent to distribute five (5) kilograms or more of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
If convicted, SILVA-HERRERA faces a minimum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Madison Man Sentenced to 33 Months for “Ticket Switching” ScamRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Madison man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Bangor for wire fraud and attempted wire fraud.
U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. sentenced Aaron Hoster, 51, to 33 months imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $57,593.19 in restitution. Hoster pleaded guilty on September 11, 2023.
According to court records, from June 2021 to April 2023, Hoster removed UPC labels from low-cost items and applied them to higher-priced items which he then purchased. Hoster defrauded multiple Home Depot and Lowe’s Home Improvement stores in Maine, cheating the retailers out of more than $51,000. In one instance, Hoster purchased a $439 cordless finish nailer kit, paying just $19.98 by scanning a price code for trimmer line. In another example, he scanned a code for an $11.36 chrome-plated plastic tailpiece despite purchasing a powered drain cleaner valued at $429. In all, Hoster, who has 29 prior criminal convictions, committed 160 thefts using his “ticket switching” scam. Most of the thefts occurred in Maine, and additional thefts took place in Maryland and Pennsylvania.
In sentencing Hoster, Judge Woodcock stated, “The defendant had a full-time job of stealing for two years. You are causing the price of all goods to rise because people like you take what they haven’t paid for. There were plenty of times you could have stopped but didn’t because it was easy money.”
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated this case.
###
Louisiana Man Sentenced to More than Three Years in Prison for DogfightingRead the Press Release
A Louisiana man was sentenced to 41 months in prison today for his part in a conspiracy to sponsor, exhibit, possess and transport animals in an interstate animal fighting venture, and to possessing an animal in such a venture, all in violation of the Animal Welfare Act.
Antonio Damon Atkins, 35, of Baton Rouge, is the final of seven total defendants to be sentenced for participating in an interstate dogfighting ring. Atkins previously pleaded guilty. An Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation originally uncovered the ring.
Six of the defendants have already been sentenced, receiving the following for their dogfighting convictions:
- Eric “EZ” Williams, Baton Rouge, Louisiana: 60 months in prison
- Corey Brown, Baton Rouge, Louisiana: 50 months in prison
- Clay Turner, Loranger, Louisiana: 36 months in prison
- Dangelo Dontae Cornish, Greensburg, Louisiana: 16 months in prison
- Aquintas Kantrell Singleton, Baton Rouge, Louisiana: 12 months and a day in prison
- David Guidry III, of Independence, Louisiana: 12 months and a day in prison
“Today’s sentencing is the final chapter of a grim conspiracy to train and kill dogs for sadistic sport,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “We commend the investigators and prosecutors who worked on this case and brought these individuals to justice.”
“With the sentencing of Antonio Atkins today, the culmination of hard work and prosecution of seven defendants has been successfully completed,” said U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Gathe Jr. for the Middle District of Louisiana. “The question becomes: would this case have been discovered if not for an OCDETF lead? This is the true power of the federal government as we see all our agency partners working collectively to send a message that it is not worth violating the Animal Welfare Act. I commend these agencies, along with my office, in working together to achieve justice.”
"Mr. Atkins and the other defendants in this case are faring much better than the dozens of animals they tortured and killed," said Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr., FBI New Orleans. "The FBI thanks its partners for their help in dismantling this vicious operation."
“The cruel and inhumane practice of animal fighting has no place in a civilized society and is a clear violation of federal law,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew T. Wilkins of U.S. Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG). “The outstanding work of our law enforcement partners and USDA-OIG agents who investigated this case made it possible to bring these operators of a major animal fighting venture to justice. This agency has made animal fighting a high priority to demonstrate that these vicious acts of cruelty to animals will not be tolerated.”
The case was investigated by the FBI and USDA-OIG.
Formerly of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Evans for the District of Minnesota prosecuted the case along with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lyman E. Thornton III and Jeremy Johnson for the Middle District of Louisiana.
Louisiana Man Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for DogfightingRead the Press Release
A Louisiana man was sentenced today to 41 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to sponsor, exhibit, possess and transport animals in an interstate animal fighting venture, and to possessing an animal in such a venture, all in violation of the Animal Welfare Act.
Antonio Damon Atkins, 35, of Baton Rouge, is the final of seven total defendants to be sentenced for participating in an interstate dogfighting ring. Atkins previously pleaded guilty. An Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation originally uncovered the ring.
Six of the defendants have already been sentenced, receiving the following for their dogfighting convictions:
- Eric “EZ” Williams, Baton Rouge: 60 months in prison
- Corey Brown, Baton Rouge: 50 months in prison
- Clay Turner, Loranger, Louisiana: 36 months in prison
- Dangelo Dontae Cornish, Greensburg, Louisiana: 16 months in prison
- Aquintas Kantrell Singleton, Baton Rouge: 12 months and a day in prison
- David Guidry III, of Independence, Louisiana: 12 months and a day in prison
“Today’s sentencing is the final chapter of a grim conspiracy to train and kill dogs for sadistic sport,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “We commend the investigators and prosecutors who worked on this case and brought these individuals to justice.”
“With the sentencing of Antonio Atkins today, the culmination of hard work and prosecution of seven defendants has been successfully completed,” said U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Gathe Jr. for the Middle District of Louisiana. “The question becomes: would this case have been discovered if not for an OCDETF lead? This is the true power of the federal government as we see all our agency partners working collectively to send a message that it is not worth violating the Animal Welfare Act. I commend these agencies, along with my office, in working together to achieve justice.”
"Mr. Atkins and the other defendants in this case are faring much better than the dozens of animals they tortured and killed," said Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr. of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. "The FBI thanks its partners for their help in dismantling this vicious operation."
“The cruel and inhumane practice of animal fighting has no place in a civilized society and is a clear violation of federal law,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew T. Wilkins of the Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG). “The outstanding work of our law enforcement partners and USDA-OIG agents who investigated this case made it possible to bring these operators of a major animal fighting venture to justice. This agency has made animal fighting a high priority to demonstrate that these vicious acts of cruelty to animals will not be tolerated.”
The FBI and USDA-OIG investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Evans for the District of Minnesota, formerly of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section, prosecuted the case along with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lyman E. Thornton III and Jeremy Johnson for the Middle District of Louisiana.
Lewistown Man Sentenced to 40 Months’ Imprisonment on Drug and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Troy Allen Shirey, age 48, formerly of Lewistown, Pennsylvania, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson to serve 40 months’ imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised released based upon his previously entered guilty plea to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Shirey was prohibited from possessing firearms because of an active Protection From Abuse (PFA) order issued in Mifflin County. On March 8, 2021, United States Marshals executed a search warrant at Shirey’s residence in Lewistown and recovered approximately 30 grams of methamphetamine, 23 packets of fentanyl, $1140 in cash, a digital scale, and miscellaneous drug paraphernalia indicating drug distribution. In addition, four firearms were seized including a handgun with an obliterated serial number and another handgun reported missing.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the United States Marshals, the Lewistown Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Assistant U.S. Attorney Johnny Baer and Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler prosecuted the case.
# # #
Lead Defendant Sentenced to over 11 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – An Arizona resident was sentenced Tuesday by United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva to 135 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release for his role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Mateo Vailon-Ramirez, aka Juan De Dios Yuen Felix, 38, conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine and launder monetary proceeds in Las Vegas. As part of the conspiracy, customers living in Las Vegas would place orders for methamphetamine with Vailon-Ramirez who lived in Arizona. Vailon-Ramirez would dispatch couriers to deliver the methamphetamine to these customers. In November 2020, during the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Las Vegas that was utilized by Vailon-Ramirez as a stash house, law enforcement recovered approximately 6.59 kilograms of methamphetamine.
Vailon-Ramirez further admitted that he directed couriers to deliver the money from the sale of the drugs to Claudia Perez-Contreras who worked at a money service business in Las Vegas. He directed Perez-Contreras to wire the cash proceeds to individuals in Mexico.
Vailon-Ramirez pleaded guilty in July 2023 to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance-Methamphetamine and money laundering conspiracy.
Six co-conspirators have been sentenced or await sentencing:
- Jasmin Arredondo pleaded guilty and sentencing is set for January 18, 2024;
- Maria Baltazar pleaded guilty and was sentenced to time served and three years of supervised release;
- Miguel Felix-Valdez pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 63 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release;
- Rey Munoz-Ambrocio pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 84 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release;
- Claudia Perez-Contreras pleaded guilty and was sentenced to one year in prison and two years of supervised release; and
- Francisco Tostado pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 48 months in prison and three years of supervised release.
Co-conspirator Wanda Soliai is currently in RISE Court and co-conspirator Christina Vasquez has successfully completed RISE Court. RISE (Recovery, Inspiration, Support & Excellence) is a pre-adjudication court-led initiative involving a comprehensive substance abuse use disorder program.
United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kevin Adams of the DEA Las Vegas District Office made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the DEA and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Melanee Smith prosecuted the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States, using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
If you are aware of controlled substance violations in your community — which may include the growing, manufacture, distribution or trafficking of controlled substances — please submit your anonymous tip through the DEA Tip Line at https://www.dea.gov/submit-tip.
###
Justice Department Publishes Model Legislation to Help States Reduce Gun Violence and Improve Gun SafetyRead the Press Release
The Justice Department published two pieces of model legislation for states to consider to help address the continuing epidemic of gun violence affecting communities across the country. The model legislation is drawn from commonsense gun-safety statutes already on the books in a broad cross-section of states.
First, the Department published model legislation to help states craft appropriate requirements for securing firearms kept in residences and vehicles and to ensure that those firearms do not fall into the hands of children, teens, and prohibited persons. Second, the Department published model legislation to help states craft appropriate requirements for the prompt reporting of lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement. The resources for states announced today follow model legislation on extreme risk protection orders first published by the Justice Department in June 2021.
“Whether stolen from lawful gun owners or found by children and teens, unsecured firearms are responsible for thousands of injuries and deaths across our country each year,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “We cannot resign ourselves to losing our neighbors, our loved ones — even our children — to misuse of firearms that could have been kept safely out of reach. The model legislation announced today provides states with new tools to improve the safety of legally-owned firearms and reduce the tragic toll of gun violence in our communities.”
Empirical evidence shows that the secure storage of firearms saves lives. Keeping firearms and ammunition locked has been associated with a lower risk of firearm injuries for children and teens in homes where guns are stored. Safe storage protects both minors and adults by preventing unintentional shootings and decreasing the risk of gun suicides, gun thefts, and criminal discharges of firearms. Based on similar laws already on the books in over a dozen states, the model secure-storage legislation will help additional states craft laws to reduce the risks associated with unattended firearms.
Every year, thousands of firearms are lost or stolen out of vehicles, businesses, and private homes. The timely reporting of lost and stolen firearms allows police to develop investigative leads and identify patterns that might indicate the involvement of illicit firearms traffickers. Based on similar laws already in effect across 15 states and D.C., the model theft/loss-reporting legislation will help additional states craft laws to ensure prompt and responsible engagement with local law enforcement.
These model bills provide a framework that will help more states enact sensible gun-safety laws. Both pieces of model legislation are accompanied by detailed commentary that will make it easier for states to assess various policy options and select appropriate requirements, notices, and penalties. The Justice Department encourages states to consider adopting their own versions of this model legislation to ensure safer communities across the country.
The model legislation on secure firearm storage is available here. The model legislation on reporting lost and stolen firearms is available here.
Justice Department Announces Funding Opportunities to Support Public Safety in Tribal CommunitiesRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced the opening of the 2024 Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS) period for comprehensive funding to American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes. CTAS funding supports crime prevention activities, victim services and coordinated community responses to violence in Indian Country.
Administered by the department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP) and Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), the solicitation includes guidance on how federally recognized Tribal governments and Tribal consortia can apply for funding to aid in the development of a comprehensive and coordinated approach to public safety and victimization.
“The Office of Justice Programs is committed to working with Tribes and Tribal communities to provide a wide array of services and supports to help keep their communities safe,” said Assistant Attorney General Amy L. Solomon of OJP. “Our grants provide funding to Tribes for their juvenile justice and criminal justice systems, including providing support to victims and families, helping to strengthen Tribal court systems and enabling tribes to develop, expand or strengthen approaches along the juvenile justice continuum.”
The funding from OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and Office for Victims of Crime, along with funding from the COPS Office, can be used for a range of public safety and justice-related projects and services. These include enhancing law enforcement, advancing fair and effective adult and juvenile justice systems and reducing juvenile delinquency and improving youth outcomes. In addition, the grants serve American Indian and Alaska Native victims of child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence and elder abuse.
“The COPS Office is well aware of the vital role Tribal law enforcement plays in ensuring the safety and well-being of our Native American communities,” said Director Hugh T. Clements Jr. of the COPS Office. “Our commitment to providing them with the resources they need — including officers, equipment and training — is unwavering. By investing in the capabilities of Tribal law enforcement, we strengthen the fabric of justice that spans across state, local, Tribal, and territorial jurisdictions.”
In FY 2023, the department awarded 182 CTAS grants, amounting to more than $96 million in CTAS funding to 111 Tribes and Tribal consortia across the United States.
The grants.gov application deadline for CTAS is March 5, 2024, at 8:59 p.m. ET, and the JustGrants deadline is March 12, 2024, at 8:59 p.m. ET.
The department will also facilitate a series of webinars to guide applicants through the application process. Details, including how to register for these webinars, will be made available online in the coming weeks here.
Individuals indicted and arrested in Collin County sex trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
PLANO, Texas – Three North Texas individuals have been charged with sex trafficking crimes in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs today.
William McKinnley Garland, 40, of Plano; Jalen Alexander Bobo, 24, of Dallas; and Robberta Marie Khan, 27, of Euless, have been charged by an indictment returned by a grand jury in the Eastern District of Texas. All three were charged with coercion and enticement and aiding and abetting. Garland and Bobo are also charged with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion.
This indictment is the culmination of a years-long investigation by the Plano Police Department into a sex trafficking organization run by Garland and others. Evidence revealed that young women were allegedly recruited to work for Garland as escorts. However, once enticed, they were allegedly forced into performing commercial sex by Garland, or those working under his direction, often through violence and threats of violence. Evidence obtained by law enforcement revealed that the organization operated throughout Collin County. A federal search warrant was executed at Garland’s Plano residence on December 11, 2023, at which time Garland was taken into custody.
If convicted, Garland and Bobo face a maximum term of life in federal prison. Khan may be sentenced to up to 20 years in federal prison.
“The Eastern District of Texas is proud to work with our local and federal partners to stand against the exploitation of vulnerable persons and hold human traffickers accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs. “This indictment represents the first step toward dismantling an organization in which individuals profited from commercial sex, including from women who were threatened or forced into prostitution.”
According to Plano Police Department Chief Ed Drain, “I am extremely pleased with the collaboration and diligence on the part of our Plano Police Detectives, our FBI partners, and the United States Attorney's office in this investigation. These investigative efforts brought several violent offenders to justice and restored the peace, tranquility, and safety, not only to our community, but to the victims of these egregious crimes. Our continuing work will leave no stone unturned in an effort to identify those who aid in perpetrating these offenses and to provide assistance and justice to those who fall victim to these offenders.”
“Human trafficking is one of the most heinous crimes the FBI encounters and unfortunately, these encounters are far more common than most people realize,” said Dallas FBI Special Agent in Charge Chad Yarbrough. “Collaboration with the Plano Police Department and U.S. Attorney’s Office was critical to identify and arrest the alleged traffickers and as we continue the investigation and move forward to prosecute the perpetrators, we hope to identify additional victims in order to provide the services and support they need to regain their dignity, identity and sense of self.”
Investigators believe that there are other individuals who worked for or had interactions with this organization. Any members of the public with information about this case or possible victims are urged to contact the Plano Police Department at (972) 941-2044.
This case is being investigated by the Plano Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa J. Miller.
It is important to note that an indictment or arrest should not be considered as evidence of guilt and that all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
###
Indictment Charges Eight Men in an Interstate Fentanyl and Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A 19-count indictment charges eight men from the metropolitan Washington D.C. area with participating in an interstate fentanyl and cocaine conspiracy believed responsible for distributing multi-kilogram quantities of narcotics in the region.
The announcement was made today by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, DEA Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget, of the Washington Division, FBI Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge Chris Tremblay, of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, Inspector in Charge Damon Wood, of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Washington Division, and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department.
Charged are Samuel Braxton, 55, formerly of Washington, D.C., Ronnie Rogers, 68, of Washington D.C., Wayne Glymph, 57, of Port Tobacco, MD, Ricky Jackson, 65, of Washington, D.C., Kevin Quattlebaum, 57, of Upper Marlboro, MD, Michael Owens, 36, of St. Charles, MD, and Michael Stewart, 59, of Washington, D.C. As of November 29, 2023, seven of the eight defendants are in custody. The indictment alleges overlapping conspiracies to possess and distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine. DEA chemists determined that a portion of the fentanyl powder contained carfentanil, an animal tranquilizer 100 times more potent than fentanyl.
“This group of defendants was allegedly supplying deadly fentanyl and carfentanil - a fentanyl analogue that is 100 times more potent than regular fentanyl - across multiple states in kilogram quantities,” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “As I have said before, anyone selling this poison on our streets or funneling these drugs to our community will find themselves on the wrong end of a criminal investigation. With the dedicated legion of law enforcement partners, we will pursue those people regardless of where - in the United States or the world - they may be.”
“Fatal drug poisonings caused by deadly drugs like fentanyl are the most significant threats throughout the United States and in our area, in particular,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Forget. “These poisonings are driven by drug traffickers and local gangs involved in violent crimes. Thanks to the investigation by DEA and local, state, and federal partners, the indictments mentioned today led to dismantling a multi-state drug trafficking organization that was involved in distributing unprecedented amounts of fentanyl within and beyond the Nation's Capital.”
According to the indictment, the fentanyl distribution conspiracy and the cocaine distribution conspiracy ran from at least July 2021 and August 2022, respectively, until November 2023, when arrests were executed.
Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement seized more than eight kilograms of high potency fentanyl, some of which was at least 65% pure; more than 6,000 fake pills containing fentanyl produced to resemble OxyContin; and more than six kilograms of cocaine. Law enforcement also seized eight firearms, of which at least one had armor-piercing capabilities nicknamed “the cop killer;” and more than $70,000 in cash and money orders, including money intercepted that was intended for the purchase of kilogram quantities of fentanyl.
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service remains steadfast in its collaboration with law enforcement partners, standing side by side to relentlessly pursue individuals infiltrating our communities with this deadly drug,” Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge – Washington Division. We remain committed in eradicating these illicit substances from the U.S. mail and consequently safeguarding our customers and employees.”
“The amount of Fentanyl on our streets is disturbing. It is constantly ripping apart families and loved ones and having a profound impact on our communities,” Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela A. Smith said. “Our detectives investigate each overdose case to get to the root of where illegal drugs are entering our community and work with our federal partners to hold people responsible accountable.”
CHARGES
DEFENDANT
AGE
ADDRESS
CHARGES
Samuel Braxton
55
FCI Fort Dix, NJ (formerly D.C. Metro)
(1) Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Four Hundred Grams or More of Fentanyl and One Hundred Grams or More of Heroin
Ronnie Rogers (10 total charges)
68
Washington, D.C.
(1) Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Four Hundred Grams or More of Fentanyl and One Hundred Grams or More of Heroin;
(2) Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Five Hundred Grams or More of Cocaine, and a Detectable Amount of Cocaine Base;
(10) (13) Unlawful Distribution of Forty Grams or More of Fentanyl (two charges);
(12) (16) (18) (19) Attempted Unlawful Possession with Intent to Distribute Four Hundred Grams or More of Fentanyl (four charges);
(15) Unlawful Possession with Intent to Distribute Four Hundred Grams or More of Fentanyl;
(17) Attempted Unlawful Possession with Intent to Distribute One Hundred Grams or More of Heroin;
Wayne Glymph
57
Port Tobacco, MD
(1) Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Four Hundred Grams or More of Fentanyl and One Hundred Grams or More of Heroin
Ricky Jackson
65
Washington, D.C.
(1) Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Four Hundred Grams or More of Fentanyl and One Hundred Grams or More of Heroin
Kevin Quattlebaum
57
Upper Marlboro, MD
(2) Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Five Hundred Grams or More of Cocaine, and a Detectable Amount of Cocaine Base
Michael Owens
36
St. Charles, MD
(1) Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Four Hundred Grams or More of Fentanyl and One Hundred Grams or More of Heroin;
(2) Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Five Hundred Grams or More of Cocaine, and a Detectable Amount of Cocaine Base
Michael Stewart (11 total charges)
59
Washington, D.C.
(1) Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Four Hundred Grams or More of Fentanyl and One Hundred Grams or More of Heroin;
(2) Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Five Hundred Grams or More of Cocaine, and a Detectable Amount of Cocaine Base;
(3) (4) (6) (8) (9) Unlawful Distribution of a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl (five charges);
(5) Unlawful Possession with Intent to Distribute Forty Grams or More of Fentanyl;
(7) (11) (14) Unlawful Distribution of Forty Grams or More of Fentanyl (three charges)
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division, the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Alexandria Police Department, and the Metropolitan Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Washington Field Division, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, U.S. Bureau of Prisons, Montgomery County Police Department, Prince George’s County Police Interdiction Unit, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, Arlington County Police, Virginia State Police, Loudoun County Sherriff’s Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland (Greenbelt), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys George Eliopoulos, William Hart, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Stempel, all of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Importer agrees to pay $798,334 to resolve allegations of underpayment of customs dutiesRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs of the Eastern District of Texas announced today that Homestar North America, LLC has agreed to pay $798,334 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by failing to pay customs duties owed for furniture imports from China.
Customs laws require importers to pay duties determined by the actual value of the goods imported. Liability to pay duties arises immediately and automatically upon the importation of goods into the United States. This settlement resolves allegations that Homestar North America, LLC and its parent company Homestar Corporation, conspired to underreport the value of imported goods delivered to Homestar North America, LLC in the United States following the two increases on Section 301 tariffs for certain products manufactured in China under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States. The two increases respectively took effect September 24, 2018 and June 15, 2019.
Specifically, the government alleged that from September 2018 through December 2022, falsified invoices were created and submitted to the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) containing false, lower values for the goods Homestar North America, LLC received from Homestar Corporation, its Chinese parent company, to avoid payment of the increased duties owed. The government contended that a second set of invoices containing the true, actual value of the goods imported were withheld from CBP but were then used to ensure that Homestar North America, LLC paid its parent company and supplier the actual value of the imported goods. The government alleged that this false invoicing practice resulted in undervaluation of goods imported into the United States, which resulted in a loss of revenue to the United States.
“Imported goods are necessary for the consumer-economy in the United States. However, companies that wish to gain access to the United States' markets must comply with all laws regarding the import of their goods, including the obligation to disclose the actual value of imported goods and to pay the duties owed as a result of importation,” said U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs. “Instead of complying with those obligations, Homestar chose to disregard its obligations and improve its bottom line. Our office will aggressively pursue any company that similarly chooses its bottom line over compliance with the law.”
“CBP’s Consumer Products and Mass Merchandising Center of Excellence and Expertise worked in collaboration with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to review thousands of documents, hundreds of entry summaries, and analyzed financial reports provided by Homestar, as relevant to the undervaluation and payment allegations,” said Director Gregory Alvarez of the CBP Atlanta Field Office. “CBP is proud of the investigative work and analysis done by its employees on this case and will continue to work collaboratively with inter-agency stakeholders to safeguard our nation’s economic security.”
The civil settlement resolves claims brought by a relator under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. These provisions allow a private party, known as a relator, to file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam action is captioned U.S. ex rel. Larry J. Edwards, Jr. v. Homestar North America, LLC, Cause No. 4:21-cv-00148 (E.D. Tex.). As part of today’s resolution, the whistleblower will receive approximately $151,683.
The resolution obtained was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Texas with assistance from CBP and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations.
The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Betty Young for the Eastern District of Texas.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
####
Illinois Man Convicted of Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Martin Devalois, 40 years old, of Romeoville, Illinois, was found guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon following a two-day jury trial presided over by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Devalois is scheduled for sentencing on March 29, 2024. Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department and the Indiana State Police Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jerome W. McKeever and Joel L. Mathur.
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.
Honduran Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Honduran man was sentenced to 24 months in prison for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
According to court documents, Tommy Pineda-Guevara, 20, was found in possession of a firearm during a traffic stop on September 1, 2022. Pineda-Guevara is a citizen and national of Honduras. Under federal law, aliens are prohibited from possessing firearms.
U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi and Acting Special Agent in Charge Eric DeLaune of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans made the announcement.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam T. Stuart prosecuted the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Honduran Citizen Sentenced to 78 Months for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
UTICA, NEW YORK – David Rivera-Mejia, age 33, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced today to serve 78 months (6.5 years) in federal prison for possessing child pornography, announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Chief Border Patrol Agent Robert N. Garcia, United States Border Patrol, Swanton Sector; and Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
As part of his previously entered guilty plea, Rivera-Mejia admitted that he is a citizen of Honduras, and on March 24, 2021, he illegally entered the United States from Canada by walking across the international border near Mooers, New York. United States Border Patrol apprehended Rivera-Mejia and seized his cell phone. Rivera-Mejia’s phone contained approximately 38 videos and 12 images depicting child pornography.
United States District Judge David N. Hurd also imposed a 5-year term of supervised release, which will start when Rivera-Mejia is released from prison, and ordered him to pay a $100 special assessment and restitution to victims in the amount of $6,000. Rivera-Mejia will also be required to register as a sex offender. Upon his release from prison, Rivera-Mejia may be removed/deported from the United States.
Border Patrol and HSI investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carling Dunham and Tamara Thomson prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc/.
Hernandez Man Charged with Federal Firearms Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Jason T. Stevens, Acting Special Agent in Charge for the El Paso Division of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), announced today that Isaiah Rojas appeared in federal court on a 7-count indictment charging him with 3 counts of firearms trafficking, straw purchasing firearms, possession a firearm not registered with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, unlawful possession and transfer of a machine gun, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Rojas, 27, of Hernandez, New Mexico, will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, on May 16, 2023, Rojas purchased and provided firearms to another person with the belief that the recipient intended to use the firearms in furtherance of a felony or drug trafficking crime. Later, on June 3, 2023, Rojas provided rifles with a barrel length less than 16 inches and an overall length of less than 26 inches that were not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record to another individual. Lastly, on Sept. 6, 2023, Rojas provided machineguns with obliterated serial numbers to another individual.
An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Rojas faces up to 25 years in prison.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Homeland Security Investigations jointly investigated the case. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
View the Indictment here# # #
23-283
Hartford Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KARLIS MANSON, 35, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven to 48 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing controlled substances.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and Hartford Police Department conducted an investigation of a business located at 136 Barbour Street in Hartford that was suspected of trafficking narcotics. The business, a purported clothing store, had an awning that read “The HOLE Ex-Con 360 the movement.” In October 2022, investigators made two controlled purchases of marijuana from the store.
On October 5, 2022, Manson and others were in the store when investigators conducted a court-authorized search of the store and seized quantities of suspected crack cocaine, psychedelic mushrooms, cocaine, marijuana, heroin, synthetic opioid films, fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodone, MDMA, drug packaging and processing materials, U.S. currency, and five handguns. Manson, who was found in possession of distribution quantities of fentanyl and crack cocaine, and approximately $1,000 in cash, was arrested at that time. After a K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics in Manson’s vehicle, which was parked outside the store, a search of the vehicle revealed approximately 400 grams of cocaine, 10 pounds of marijuana, and $8,200 in cash.
Also on October 5, 2022, investigators searched a U-Haul storage facility in Plainville, which was rented under the name of a Manson relative, and found documents connected to Manson, a large duffle bag containing approximately 28 pounds of marijuana in vacuum-sealed bags, a suitcase containing approximately 12 pounds of marijuana in vacuum-sealed bags, and approximately two pounds of phenacetin, which is used as a cutting agent for narcotics.
Investigators also seized a safe containing six firearms, and a duffel bag containing approximately 25 pounds of marijuana, from a Vernon residence where Manson had stored the items.
On September 7, 2023, Manson pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Manson, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on January 17, 2024.
This investigation has been conducted by the DEA’s Hartford Task Force and the Hartford Police Department, with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory. The DEA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys A. Reed Durham and Brendan J. Keefe.
Harrison County man sentenced to 10 years for fentanyl and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Edward Maxwell, age 44, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 120 months in federal prison for fentanyl trafficking and unlawful firearm possession.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Maxwell was selling fentanyl from his home. Investigators searched the property and found fentanyl and a pistol. Maxwell has prior felony convictions which prevents him from having firearms.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Greenbelt Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison on Drug and Firearms Charges, Including Illegal Possession of a MachinegunRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang sentenced Donald Fortune, Jr., age 19, of Greenbelt, Maryland, today to eight years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release for federal charges of illegal possession of a machinegun, possession with intent to distribute oxycodone and fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron; Acting Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; and Chief Malik Aziz of the Prince George’s County Police Department (“PGPD”).
According to his guilty plea, law enforcement began investigating Fortune in April 2022 for suspected firearms and drug trafficking offenses. As part of the investigation, PGPD detectives monitored public posts from Fortune’s social media account where he displayed firearms and advertised drugs for sale. Based on their investigation, including the social media posts, a search warrant was obtained for Fortune’s apartment.
On June 2, 2022, law enforcement was conducting surveillance outside Fortune’s apartment building in preparation for executing the warrant. In the late morning, Fortune exited the building and approached a silver Honda Civic. Fortune removed a large bag of blue pills, suspected to be oxycodone, from a Gucci satchel that he was wearing and engaged in a suspected hand-to-hand drug transaction with the driver of the Civic. Fortune then placed the pills back in the Gucci satchel and returned to his apartment.
According to court documents, a short time later, Fortune, still wearing the Gucci satchel, left the apartment building with a woman. They both got into a rideshare and the vehicle drove away. PGPD police conducted a traffic stop of the ride-share vehicle a short time later and observed Fortune reach down toward his feet. Officers asked Fortune, who was still wearing the Gucci satchel, to step out of the vehicle and officers observed a .40-caliber semi-automatic pistol on the floorboard where Fortune had been seated. The gun, which had an obliterated serial number, was loaded with one round in the chamber and 21 rounds in an extended magazine and was equipped with a full auto selector switch on the rear of the handgun slide, making it a machinegun under federal law. A search of the Gucci satchel recovered a large bag containing 282 30mg blue pills, later found to be counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl. Officers also recovered $790 in cash from Fortune. Fortune was arrested and charged in Prince George’s County. He was released on June 14, 2022, pending trial.
Fortune admitted that he continued to sell drugs and possess firearms after his release, including coordinating a drug deal around a court appearance. Fortune switched to using a second social media account in mid-July 2022, believed by investigators to be an effort to evade law enforcement. Investigators began monitoring this account. Fortune continued to advertise pills for sale and display firearms, despite being on pretrial release. For example, on July 26, 2022, investigators observed a public-facing live video that was streaming from Fortune’s second social media account, which showed Fortune smoking a suspected marijuana cigarette, flashing two prescription bottles, and holding an AR-style pistol. Fortune then turned the camera around to show a table display of at least six firearms, including two AR-style pistols, one handgun with an extended magazine, and one handgun with a suspected full-automatic switch, with cash fanned out in front of the firearms.
As detailed in the plea agreement, on the evening of July 26, 2022, PGPD officers were on patrol in the 6400 block of Pennsylvania Avenue in District Heights, Maryland and saw Fortune smoking marijuana on the sidewalk in front of a residence. As the officer was parking his car in the parking lot, he saw Fortune walk behind a pick-up truck, crouch down, and throw an item on the ground before walking away. Believing Fortune had discarded a firearm or contraband, the officer got out of his unmarked police cruiser to speak with Fortune, who continued to walk away. As the officer got closer, Fortune began running and was apprehended a short distance away. Another officer arrived and stayed by the location where Fortune had been seen throwing something. A search of the area recovered a privately manufactured 5.56 caliber semi-automatic AR-15 style pistol with no serial number, also known as a “ghost gun.” The gun was loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition in the magazine and one in the chamber. Officers searched Fortune and recovered two pill bottles containing 16 real or counterfeit oxycodone pills. The pills were tested and eight were found to contain approximately 5mg of oxycodone each and the rest were found to be counterfeit oxycodone pills that contained fentanyl.
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.
United States Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the FBI’s Cross Border Task Force and the Prince George’s County Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick D. Kibbe and Joshua A. Rosenthal, who prosecuted the case.
For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/project-safe-neighborhoods-psn and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
# # #
Fugitive Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity Theft and Fraud Involving Cellphone SchemeRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Rohan Conrad Campbell (49, Jamaica) has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison for the wire fraud offense and a consecutive minimum mandatory sentence of two years in federal prison for the aggravated identity theft offense. Campbell has also agreed to forfeit $4,207, which represents the proceeds of his offenses. His sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.
According to the plea agreement and public records, on August 5, 2017, Campbell entered a Five Star Cellular store in Clay County. Using a fraudulently established account and a counterfeit state of Washington driver license, both in the name of a victim, Campbell obtained multiple cellphones. On August 15, 2017, Campbell returned to a Sprint store in Clay County to collect cellphones he had fraudulently ordered using another victim’s identity. A store employee recognized Campbell and called the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). Upon arriving and making contact with Campbell, Campbell provided a deputy with a counterfeit Washington driver license in the identity of a third victim. As a deputy was talking with him, Campbell ran, but was tackled. Campbell then got up and fled, but was later apprehended by the CCSO after a pursuit. Follow up investigation by the CCSO and the United States Secret Service determined that Campbell set up numerous fraudulent accounts, using counterfeit identification documents in the identity of various victims and obtained thousands of dollars’ worth of cell phones at multiple stores in Florida.
Campbell was arrested on May 31, 2018. After being released on pre-trial supervision, Campbell fled the jurisdiction in August 2019 and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Campbell remained a fugitive for more than three years until law enforcement arrested him in early 2023.
This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Secret Service – Jacksonville Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. The asset forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer M. Harrington.
Ft. Thompson Man Found Guilty of Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a jury has convicted Loren Goodlow, age 34, of Ft. Thompson, South Dakota, of eight counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor, two counts of Abusive Sexual Contact, two counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography, and Tampering with a Witness following a three-day jury trial in federal district court in Rapid City, South Dakota. The verdict was returned on December 7, 2023.
The defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years up to a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison. Each count of conviction also carries a maximum fine of $250,000, a term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Goodlow was indicted by a federal grand jury in April of 2023.
Evidence at trial established that on March 18, 2023, Goodlow engaged in sexual acts with two minor females who had attained the age of 12 years old but not attained the age of 16 while on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Goodlow also enticed one of the minors in December of 2022 and engaged in sexual acts with the minor between December 26, 2022, and January 16, 2023. After the minor disclosed in March of 2023, Goodlow attempted to tamper with one of the witnesses over Facebook Messenger, by repeatedly telling the minor to recant the disclosure. The investigation also revealed that on December 8, 2021, Goodlow enticed another minor female and attempted to receive child pornography.
The acts of enticement and receipt of child pornography all occurred over the social media application of Snapchat.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case.
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date has not been set. The defendant was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fruitland Man Charged with Abandonment and Abuse of a ChildRead 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 Logan Nelson appeared in federal court on an indictment charging him with 3 counts of abandonment and abuse of child resulting in great bodily harm. Nelson, 20, of Fruitland, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the indictment, in October 2022, Nelson placed Jane Doe, a minor, in a situation which endangered her life, causing great bodily harm to her ulna, humerus, ribs, tibia and right fibula.
An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted of the most serious allegation, Nelson faces a minimum of 18 years and up to 54 years in prison.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany DuChaussee is prosecuting the case.
View the Indictment here# # #
23-282