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27 October 2023
Cedar Rapids Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who distributed over ten pounds of methamphetamine was sentenced October 26, 2023, to 21 years in federal prison.
Anthony McNeese, age 39, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a June 26, 2023 guilty plea to one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
Information disclosed at sentencing showed that, in November 2020, McNeese threw over 400 grams of ice methamphetamine out of the window of his vehicle as he fled from law enforcement. McNeese drove at a high rate of speed through residential neighborhoods and eventually escaped on foot. Later, McNeese directed his friend to go to the police station and attempt to claim ownership of the ice methamphetamine McNeese threw out of his window; however, McNeese’s scheme did not work. In late November and early December 2020, McNeese obtained at least 10 pounds of ice methamphetamine from his source of supply, which he then redistributed. At times, McNeese knowingly possessed a firearm when distributing ice methamphetamine. On December 7, 2020, law enforcement searched McNeese’s vehicle and recovered an additional 37 grams of ice methamphetamine.
McNeese was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. McNeese was sentenced to 251 months’ imprisonment, and he must also serve a five‑year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
McNeese is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and investigated by the Sixth Judicial District of Correctional Services’ High-Risk Unit and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-CR-00039-CJW.
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Bronx Man Pleads Guilty to Coordinating Role in International “Grandparents” Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Josiah DeJesus, age 22, of Bronx, New York, pleaded guilty on October 26, 2023, before United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to serving as a coordinating courier in a Dominican Republic-based “grandparents” fraud scheme that preyed upon elderly, American victims from states across the country.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, from approximately June 2020 to October 2020, along with four other Bronx men whom he recruited, DeJesus regularly traveled from New York City to various locations in Pennsylvania and Ohio to retrieve UPS and Fed Ex packages containing thousands of dollars in cash. These packages were sent by elderly victims, who were induced to send the money based upon false claims that their grandchildren had been arrested and charged with serious vehicular crimes and, consequently, were in immediate need of money. These false claims were made to the elderly victims in phone calls that they received from DeJesus’ oversees co-conspirators in the Dominican Republic, who posed either as the victims’ grandchildren or as attorneys representing the victims’ grandchildren.
DeJesus acknowledged that the monetary loss attributable to his conduct was between $250,000 and $550,000, that his conduct resulted in substantial financial hardship to five or more victims and involved the unlawful use of the means of identification of five or more victims. DeJesus agreed to make restitution to the victims in the amount of $328,780.00.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation –Philadelphia Division, and its state and local law enforcement partners in Berks County, PA. Assistant United States Attorney Jeffery St John is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
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Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Statement on the Suspect in the Lewiston, Maine, Mass ShootingRead the Press Release
The Justice Department issued the following statement from Attorney General Merrick B. Garland on the suspect in the Lewiston, Maine, mass shooting:
“This evening, law enforcement recovered the body of Robert Card, the suspect in the horrific mass shooting in Lewiston on Wednesday evening. I want to thank our state and local law enforcement partners, along with the FBI, ATF, U.S. Marshals, and other federal agencies who have been working day and night to locate the shooter and keep the affected communities safe.
Although we are grateful that the suspect in this case no longer poses a threat, we know that nothing can bring back the lives he stole or undo the terror he inflicted.
The FBI will continue to provide victim support resources to those who have been devastated by this attack, and the entire Justice Department will provide ongoing support to our state and local law enforcement partners.
As I said yesterday, no community should have to endure these mass shootings which have become routine in our country.”
Activity in the U.S. Attorney's OfficeRead the Press Release
Child Pornography
Todd David Curington, age 57, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for possession of child pornography, second or subsequent conviction, and ordered to pay $48,000 in restitution. According to court documents, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) received CyberTips indicating child pornography had been downloaded from devices inside Curington’s residence. On Feb. 28, ICAC served a search warrant on Curington’s residence, and found over 700 images of child pornography including infant/toddler, sadomasochism, and bestiality were found on devices belonging to Curington. Curington was indicted in May and pled guilty in August. This crime was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation ICAC Task Force and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on Oct. 24.
False Statement
Christian Jesus Lopez Sanchez, age 40, of Gillette, Wyoming, was sentenced to 60 days in prison for making false statements in an application and use of passport. According to court documents, the defendant was born in Las Vargas, Nayarit, Mexico, and is a citizen of the Republic of Mexico. On Aug. 08, 2022, Sanchez applied for a U.S. passport in Gillette. As proof of identity, the defendant submitted his Wyoming driver license and claimed he had been born in Phoenix, Arizona, using a counterfeit birth certificate. This crime was investigated by the U.S. Department of the State. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on Oct. 23.
Escape From Custody
Michael Lee Sunrhodes, age 35, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced to a prison term for escape from federal custody. According to court documents, on Mar. 16, Sunrhodes did not return to the GEO Services Casper Re-Entry Center (CRC) from an approved work pass. Sunrhodes was in the CRC serving part of a 46-month sentence for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Sunrhodes was indicted on the escape charge and arrested in May, and he pled guilty in August. Sunrhodes, who has been in jail since May, will remain in federal custody until Jan. 4, 2024. This crime was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Gist. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Oct. 26.
26 October 2023
Youth Basketball Coach Sentenced to 15 years in Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico– United States District Court Judge Aida Delgado-Colón sentenced Ángel Gabriel Díaz-Rosado, a youth basketball coach from Toa Baja to 15 years in prison and 15 years of supervised release. Díaz-Rosado was arrested by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents in 2019 after being charged for attempted production of child pornography, coercion and enticement of minors, and transfer of obscene material to a minor.
According to court documents, Ángel Gabriel Díaz-Rosado plead guilty on June 20, 2023, for enticement and coercion of a 13-year-old male minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct, knowing that such visual depiction would be transported in and affecting interstate and foreign commerce by using any means and facility of interstate and foreign commerce.
In March of 2019, the defendant was a youth basketball coach for minor males. During such period, Díaz Rosado used his cell phone via the WhatsApp messaging application to communicate and request sexually explicit images of a 13-year-old male minor he coached. Díaz Rosado communicated with the male minor in a sexually explicit manner, requested images of the minor’s penis, and videos of the minor masturbating. The minor complied with the requests and sent the sexually explicit images to Díaz Rosado.
“The actions of this individual in this case were nothing short of reprehensible,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “He shamefully targeted minors who were under his care. The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to protecting children from abuse and holding accountable those individuals who would victimize minors.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Rebecca González-Ramos said: “We must be vigilant and unwavering in our commitment to stop predators, especially the ones serving in public trust positions. This individual was a former basketball coach and a Physical Education teacher; we feel that justice was served with today’s sentence. HSI will continue its efforts to protect our children and will continue to collaborate with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to investigate and apprehend those who attempt to abuse them.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney and Chief of the Child Exploitation and Immigration Unit, Jenifer Y. Hernández-Vega, prosecuted the case.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led the investigation with the assistance of the Puerto Rico Police Bureau and the Puerto Rico Department of Family.
For more information about HSI’s efforts to protect children from sexual predators, visit https://www.ice.gov/topics/iGuardians; and to report suspicious activities, call 787-729-6969.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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About Homeland Security Investigations
HSI is the principal investigative arm of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), responsible for investigating transnational crime and threats, specifically those criminal organizations that exploit the global infrastructure through which international trade, travel, and finance move. HSI’s workforce of more than 8,700 employees consists of more than 6,000 special agents assigned to 237 cities throughout the United States, and 93 overseas locations in 56 countries. HSI’s international presence represents DHS’s largest investigative law enforcement presence abroad and one of the largest international footprints in U.S. law enforcement.
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Woman Pleads Guilty for Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan, Pandemic Unemployment Assistance FraudRead the Press Release
A Dallas area woman who allegedly purloined more than $40,000 from pandemic-era financial programs pleaded guilty today to theft of government property, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton.
Monica Moreno, 40, was indicted in November 2022. She plead guilty today to one count of theft to government property before U.S. Magistrate District Judge Irma Carrillo Ramirez.
According to plea papers, Ms. Moreno applied for – and received – funds from three different pandemic relief programs, The Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, the Paycheck Protection Program, and the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, totaling approximately $44,757 in federal funds.
Ms. Moreno submitted an advance EIDL loan for her alleged business, JBP Financial. In application paperwork, she lied about her criminal history, indicating that she had never been convicted of a criminal offense despite her 2015 conviction for aggravated identity theft, aiding and abetting, and conspiracy to defraud the united states, crimes for which she was sentenced to 48 months in prison. Ms. Moreno received $2,000 and used some of the funds for her personal benefit.
In addition, Ms. Moreno submitted applications for over a year that contained false information to each of the three disaster relief programs and received approximately $44,757 in federal funds.
Ms. Moreno now faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration’s Gulf States Field Division, led by Special Agent in Charge Gary Smith, and the Department of Homeland Security Office of the Inspector General’s Dallas Field Office, led by Special Agent in Charge Michael Martin, conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Dallas Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nashonme Johnson is prosecuting the case with the help of Financial Auditor Sheila Powell.
Both the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the expanded Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program were authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering economic hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The PPP provided forgivable loans to small businesses to cover payroll, rent, and other certain expenses; EIDL provided quickly-issued, partially-forgivable loans to small business to cover operational expenses, including accounts payable, as well as payroll, mortgages, and other bills. The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, also authorized under the CARES Act, provided up to 39 weeks of expanded unemployment benefits for individuals impacted by COVID-19.
Western Washington tribes awarded more than $5.6 million for programs that support victims of domestic violenceRead the Press Release
Seattle – The U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women has awarded $5.6 million to six Western Washington tribes and a non-profit entity working to combat domestic and sexual violence in tribal communities, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. The funding will be used for a range of services from emergency shelter to legal assistance to counseling for victims of domestic violence.
“We know that rates of domestic and sexual violence are disproportionately higher for Alaska Native and American Indian women. These grant funds are critical to providing safety in our tribal communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. “We welcome the coordinated effort by the Women Spirit Coalition to bring this grant funding to Western Washington.”
The tribal grants include:
Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe - $1 million for transitional housing and to strengthen tribal court system interventions.
Makah Tribe - $425,000 for education and intervention strategies on domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex trafficking.
Snoqualmie Indian Tribe - $998,595 for planning and implementing a supervised visitation program; providing no-cost civil legal services for survivors; and continuing their advocacy and support efforts.
Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation - $650,000 – to enhance services such as crisis intervention, advocacy, emergency shelter, supportive counseling, information, and referral services.
Quileute Tribe - $650,000 - the New Beginnings Program will continue effective advocacy responses for victims of domestic violence including emergency transportation, housing assistance, and transitional housing assistance.
Tulalip Tribes -$1.5 million – as part of the Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction Program to enhance programs through the tribal prosecutor’s office that hold non-natives responsible for their crimes and provide support and safety for tribal victims.
Washington State Native American Coalition against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault - $382,188 – for the Women Spirit Coalition that works with 22 tribes on anti-violence work and community awareness.
Additionally, DOJ announced $1.5 million in funding to the Washington State Attorney General’s Office to investigate Missing and Murdered Indigenous persons in “cold cases” – these are cases that occurred before 1980. The Attorney General’s Office will work with the tribes and their tribal archives to research and identify pre-1980 cold cases with civil rights violations involving Indigenous victims and create an inventory of these cases. The grant will produce a public report documenting what was found over the course of research.
Waterbury Man Caught Transporting Kilos of Drugs Sentenced to More Than 7 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CYRELLE CONYERS, 37, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 88 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for his participation in a drug trafficking conspiracy.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 8, 2021, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Waterbury Police Department established surveillance at a Waterbury residence that was suspected of being used as a narcotics stash house. Officers observed several vehicles depart from the residence, including one driven by Conyers. Officers stopped and searched Conyers’ vehicle, which was unregistered, and seized approximately 13 kilograms of cocaine, more than 1.5 kilograms of heroin, more than 500 grams of crack cocaine, and more than 350 grams of methamphetamine. A search of a second vehicle that was stopped after leaving the residence revealed two handguns, 18 boxes of ammunition, and more than $31,000 in cash. A search of Conyers’ nearby residence revealed distribution quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine, items used to process and package narcotics, and more than $4,000 in cash.
Conyers’ criminal history includes eight previous convictions, three of which involve the sale or possession of controlled substances.
On June 27, 2023, Conyers pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute over 500 grams of cocaine. Conyers, who is released on a $150,000 bond, is required to report to prison on January 24, 2024.
This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Konstantin Lantsman.
Washington County Man Admits Stealing 31 Firearms from Hudson Falls Gun Store and Using the Firearms in Relation to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Martin Taft, age 48, of Salem, New York, pled guilty today to one count of theft of firearms from a licensed dealer and one count of using firearms during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); New York State Police (NYSP) Acting Superintendent Dominick Chiumento; and Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey J. Murphy made the announcement.
Taft admitted to stealing firearms from Calamity Jane’s Firearms and Fine Shoes, a federally licensed firearms dealer, in Hudson Falls, New York, on October 21, 2022. Taft and co-conspirator Jonathon Combs used a sledgehammer to break into the store when it was closed and steal 31 semi-automatic pistols. Taft and Combs then exchanged most of the stolen pistols to another individual in return for cocaine that they intended to distribute.
Taft faces at least 5 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 5 years when he is sentenced by United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci on February 24, 2024. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
On April 27, 2023, Combs pled guilty to the same charges as Taft, as well as an additional count of theft of a firearm from a licensed dealer. Combs faces the same minimum and maximum penalties as Taft when he is sentenced on November 28, 2023.
The following defendant still faces charges in this case, which carry the following penalties:
Name
Age
Minimum
Maximum
Kwahpreme Mitchell
32
5 years
Life
The charges against Mitchell are merely accusations. Mitchell is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
NYSP, ATF and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case with assistance provided by the Washington County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emmet O’Hanlon and Allen J. Vickey are prosecuting this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
United States Attorney’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Spokane Police Department Announce Drug Take Back DayRead the Press Release
SPOKANE, WASHINGTON – The Drug Enforcement Administration has announced the date of its National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. On Saturday, October 28, DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs.
For more than a decade, DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medications – those that are old, unwanted, or expired – that too often become a gateway to addiction.
Take Back Day offers free and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at more than 4,000 local drop-off locations nationwide.
What: National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
When: Saturday, October 28th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Who: United States Attorney’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Spokane Police Department
Where: NorthTown Mall, 4750 North Division Spokane, WA 99207
(Northwest parking area)In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed more than 8,300 tons of medication from circulation since its inception.
Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage.
“We have all witnessed the ravaging effects of the opioid epidemic in our region, and we are encouraged by the proactive efforts members of our communities are taking to prevent prescription drug misuse and addiction. This will make Eastern Washington safer and stronger,” U.S. Attorney Waldref stated. “We are honored to partner with the DEA, Spokane Police, the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Spokane Fire Department for this important event.”
“DEA is committed to protecting the communities we serve, and one way we do this is by collecting unused and unneeded prescription medications,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Too often, substance misuse starts when young people take drugs they do not need from their parent’s or grandparent’s medicine cabinet. National Prescription Take Back Day is an easy way that you can help protect our communities and our families from substance misuse.”
“As overdose deaths and misuse of drugs continue to destroy lives, including families and loved ones, we as a community need to address this at every level. Drug Take Back Day is one of multiple efforts SPD collaborates with the DEA and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Turning in unused, unwanted or dangerous drugs to be safely disposed of helps keep our family and loved ones safer. We hope the community takes advantage of this opportunity.”
For more information and to find a collection site near you, visit www.DEATakeBack.com.
United States Attorney’s Office for Middle District of North Carolina Celebrates Funding Announced During Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
GREENSBORO - The Department of Justice joins survivors, victim service providers, advocates, and communities nationwide in recognizing October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). This is a time to center the experiences of survivors, honor those who lost their lives to domestic violence; express gratitude to the countless individuals in the movement to end violence; and raise awareness on the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. As part of its monthlong observance of DVAM, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of North Carolina (MDNC) is proud to announce that the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded $2,133,002 to the MDNC to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
Data from the most recent National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicate about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner and reported an intimate partner violence-related impact during their lifetime. Domestic violence rates are even higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, Black individuals, people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals.
The announced grants will reach Tribal nations, historically marginalized communities, underserved communities, college and university campuses, rural towns, culturally specific communities, and more. The funding prioritizes increasing access to justice, improving survivor safety, holding perpetrators accountable, and offering training and technical support to professionals addressing these crimes.
Specifically, MDNC received the following funds for the 2023 fiscal year:
- OVW awarded $108,034 under State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program to enhance the coordination between courts, child protective services agencies, advocates, law enforcement, and community programs to encourage trauma-informed, survivor-centered responses to domestic violence and sexual assault.
- OVW awarded $108,034 under State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program to enhance the coordination between courts, child protective services agencies, advocates, law enforcement, and community programs to encourage trauma-informed, survivor-centered responses to domestic violence and sexual assault.
- OVW awarded $575,000 under the Grants to Enhance Culturally Specific Services for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence and Stalking Program (Culturally Specific Program) to help community-based organizations develop culturally relevant programs specific to American Indian and Alaska Native populations, Black, Asian-American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, Hispanic, and Tribal communities to support survivors.
- OVW awarded $399,968 under the Grants to Reduce Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking on Campus Program (Campus Program) to support colleges and universities to develop and strengthen effective security and investigation strategies for such crimes and to develop prevention education and awareness programs. In addition, OVW awarded $300,000 under the new Strengthening Culturally Specific Campus’ Approaches to Address Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Initiative to support new programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs).
- OVW awarded $750,000 under the Emerging Issues and Training and Technical Assistance Initiative to organizations exploring new issues in technical assistance projects that address the needs of OVW grantees.
United States Attorney Sandra Hairston commented: “I am pleased to announce that the MDNC has been awarded funding from the Office on Violence Against Women. We are looking forward to continuing our fight to protect victims of domestic violence with the help of these grants and in partnership with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners.”
“Every day, a vast network of dedicated individuals helps domestic violence survivors access multiple pathways to safety, justice, and healing,” said OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo. “OVW understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing domestic violence. These funds will enable communities to increase capacity and strengthen a coordinated community approach to prevent and address violence in more comprehensive ways tailored to their communities. Together, with our grantees, we are building a future where individuals and families can live and thrive without the threat of intimate partner violence.”
OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through implementing VAWA and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities nationwide that are developing programs, policies, and practices to end domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
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U.S. Attorney’s Offices for Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana Celebrate Funding Announced During Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
HAMMOND-The Department of Justice joins survivors, victim service providers, advocates, and communities nationwide in recognizing October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). This is a time to center the experiences of survivors; honor those who lost their lives to domestic violence; express gratitude to the countless individuals in the movement to end violence; and raise awareness on the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
As part of its’ monthlong observance of DVAM, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana are proud to announce that the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded $790, 618 to the state of Indiana to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
Data from the most recent National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicate about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner and reported an intimate partner violence-related impact during their lifetime. Domestic violence rates are even higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, Black individuals, people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals.
The announced grants will reach Tribal nations, historically marginalized communities, underserved communities, college and university campuses, rural towns, culturally specific communities, and more. The funding prioritizes increasing access to justice, improving survivor safety, holding perpetrators accountable, and offering training and technical support to professionals addressing these crimes.
Specifically, Indiana received the following funds for the 2023 fiscal year:
- OVW awarded $340,618 under State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program to enhance the coordination between courts, child protective services agencies, advocates, law enforcement, and community programs to encourage trauma-informed, survivor-centered responses to domestic violence and sexual assault.
- OVW awarded $450,000 under the Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Program (Transitional Housing Program) to support programs that provide 6 to 24 months of transitional housing or housing assistance to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson said, “I am pleased to announce, along with U.S. Attorney Myers, that our State has been awarded funding from the Office on Violence Against Women. Domestic Violence, in all forms, undermines the safety and security that one should have in their homes and intimate relationships. These grant funds will support the ongoing work being done to create communities free of domestic violence.”
“No one should be subjected to abuse, especially by those closest to them. Whether or not we’re aware, everyone knows someone impacted by domestic and intimate partner abuse, said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “This trauma leaves an indelible mark on survivors and their families, from physical harm and psychological distress to negative impacts on housing, employment, and education. The grants provided by the Office of Violence Against Women this fiscal year will fund valuable resources bolstering the many dedicated organizations serving survivors across the state of Indiana.”
“Every day, a vast network of dedicated individuals helps domestic violence survivors access multiple pathways to safety, justice, and healing,” said OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo. “OVW understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing domestic violence. These funds will enable communities to increase capacity and strengthen a coordinated community approach to prevent and address violence in more comprehensive ways tailored to their communities. Together, with our grantees, we are building a future where individuals and families can live and thrive without the threat of intimate partner violence.”
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OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through implementing VAWA and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities nationwide that are developing programs, policies, and practices to end domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana celebrates funding announced during Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — The Department of Justice joins survivors, victim service providers, advocates, and communities nationwide in recognizing October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). This is a time to center the experiences of survivors, honor those who lost their lives to domestic violence; express gratitude to the countless individuals in the movement to end violence; and raise awareness on the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. As part of its monthlong observance of DVAM, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana is proud to announce that the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded more than $4.7 million to Montana to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
Data from the most recent National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicate about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner and reported an intimate partner violence-related impact during their lifetime. Domestic violence rates are even higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, Black individuals, people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals.
The announced grants will reach Tribal nations, historically marginalized communities, underserved communities, college and university campuses, rural towns, culturally specific communities, and more. The funding prioritizes increasing access to justice, improving survivor safety, holding perpetrators accountable, and offering training and technical support to professionals addressing these crimes.
Specifically, Montana received the following funds for the 2023 fiscal year:
- OVW awarded $340,618 under State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program to enhance the coordination between courts, child protective services agencies, advocates, law enforcement, and community programs to encourage trauma-informed, survivor-centered responses to domestic violence and sexual assault. The award will go to the Montana Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.
- OVW awarded $2.93 million under the Rural Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Assistance Program (Rural Program) to support programs by local government, community-based organizations, and medical providers in rural areas to improve the safety of survivors. The awards will go to Supporters of Abuse Free Environments, $743,863; Friendship Center of Helena, $748,539; St. Peter’s Health Foundation, $700,000; and Hi-Line’s Help for Abused Spouses, $743,233.
- OVW awarded $1.5 million under the Training and Technical Assistance Initiative to support training and technical assistance programs to enhance the efforts of grant recipients to implement projects supported by OVW funds successfully. The award will go to Inspire Action for Social Change Inc.
U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich for the District of Montana commented: “I am pleased to announce that Montana has been awarded funding from the Office on Violence Against Women. Domestic violence in all its forms must stop. As we continue to prosecute and hold offenders accountable, we must also work to support and help survivors and victims of this violent abuse. These grants will fund services, organizations and agencies that are doing important work in communities across Montana to provide victim services and to raise awareness to end this violence.”
“Every day, a vast network of dedicated individuals helps domestic violence survivors access multiple pathways to safety, justice, and healing,” said OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo. “OVW understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing domestic violence. These funds will enable communities to increase capacity and strengthen a coordinated community approach to prevent and address violence in more comprehensive ways tailored to their communities. Together, with our grantees, we are building a future where individuals and families can live and thrive without the threat of intimate partner violence.”
OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through implementing VAWA and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities nationwide that are developing programs, policies, and practices to end domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida Celebrates Funding Announced During Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg joins survivors, victim service providers, advocates, and communities nationwide in recognizing October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). This is a time to center the experiences of survivors, honor those who lost their lives to domestic violence; express gratitude to the countless individuals in the movement to end violence; and raise awareness on the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. As part of its monthlong observance of DVAM, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida is proud to announce that the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded $1,849,837 to the Middle District to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
Data from the most recent National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicate about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner and reported an intimate partner violence-related impact during their lifetime. Domestic violence rates are even higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, Black individuals, people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals.
The announced grants will reach local communities and college and campuses in the Middle District. The funding prioritizes increasing access to justice, improving survivor safety, and holding perpetrators accountable.
Specifically, the Middle District received the following funds for the 2023 fiscal year:
- OVW awarded $1,050,000 under the Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Program (Transitional Housing Program) to support programs that provide 6 to 24 months of transitional housing or housing assistance to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
- OVW awarded $799,837 under the Grants to Reduce Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking on Campus Program (Campus Program) to support colleges and universities to develop and strengthen effective security and investigation strategies for such crimes and to develop prevention education and awareness programs.
“I am pleased to announce that the Middle District of Florida has been awarded more than $1.8 million in funding from the Office on Violence Against Women,” said United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg. “These funds will help our community service provides and college campuses continue to address the systemic problem that is domestic violence.”
“Every day, a vast network of dedicated individuals helps domestic violence survivors access multiple pathways to safety, justice, and healing,” said OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo. “OVW understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing domestic violence. These funds will enable communities to increase capacity and strengthen a coordinated community approach to prevent and address violence in more comprehensive ways tailored to their communities. Together, with our grantees, we are building a future where individuals and families can live and thrive without the threat of intimate partner violence.”
OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through implementing VAWA and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities nationwide that are developing programs, policies, and practices to end domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
U.S. Attorney Will Thompson Encourages West Virginians to Participate in DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back DayRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. United States Attorney Will Thompson encourages West Virginians to take advantage of this latest opportunity to discreetly dispose of old, unwanted and unneeded medications.
Take Back Day is a free, safe and anonymous way to get rid of prescription drugs that are susceptible to diversion and abuse. More than 60 collection sites throughout West Virginia have already been announced. A location finder and other information is available at www.DEATakeBack.com.
Unused or expired prescription medications are a public safety issue, leading to accidental poisoning, overdose and death. The non-medical use of prescription drugs ranks second behind only marijuana as the most common form of drug abuse in the U.S.
“Prescription drug abuse continues to exact a terrible toll on West Virginia,” Thompson said. “DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a simple, proven way to protect loved ones and our communities.”
For more than a decade, DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medications that too often become a gateway to addiction. Working in close partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed more than 8,650 tons of medication from circulation since its inception. These efforts are directly in line with DEA’s priority to combat the rise of overdoses plaguing the United States.
DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container. The cap must be tightly sealed to prevent leakage. Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.
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U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee Statement on Mass Casualty Shooting in LewistonRead the Press Release
The horrific violence perpetrated on our friends and neighbors in the Lewiston community last evening has been shocking and frightening for us all. The devastating impact on the families of the victims weighs heavily on everyone today.
We know the events of the past day have created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety. Please know that the top priority of the entire Maine law enforcement community is to address any immediate danger. Everything possible is being done to locate the suspect and bring this situation to a safe end. The investigation is ongoing, and our local and state law enforcement partners are confidently leading the way, using every tool at their disposal. Maine enjoys uniquely strong partnerships among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies within and beyond its borders. I assure you that hundreds of dedicated law enforcement professionals at all levels from across the Northeast have responded to Lewiston, and will continue to respond, as needed, to assist and support the officers, detectives, deputies, troopers, and wardens who are conducting the manhunt and processing these tragic events, and to offer critical victim support and resources.
These experienced professionals will continue to work together around the clock to bring this incident to a close. They, too, are deeply affected by the senseless attack of this scale on the Lewiston community. Please show patience, have faith in them, and keep them in your thoughts as we witness their bravery and dedicated service.
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U.S. Attorney Boroughs Announces Nearly $500,000 in Justice Department Grants to Support Project Safe Neighborhoods in South CarolinaRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA —U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs announced today that the Department of Justice has awarded $482,804 to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program in the District of South Carolina. Funding will support community efforts to address the epidemic of gun crime and serious violence in the district. The grants, to Anderson Police Department, the 15th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, are part of several awards being made to state and local agencies across the country. Funds are administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, part of the Department’s Office of Justice Programs.
Launched two decades ago as an evidence-based and community-oriented response to serious gun crime, Project Safe Neighborhoods, known as PSN, is a key component of the Department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime, outlined by Deputy Attorney General Monaco in May 2021. The PSN approach is guided by four key 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 of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.
“Our office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to combat violence in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Boroughs. “The projects selected this year illustrate the value of combining community policing with the latest technology and investigative techniques to keep our neighborhoods safe. We are proud to work with these agencies.”
This year’s projects include funding a criminal operation research and evaluation unit, hiring a gang investigator, and purchasing a ballistics comparison microscope.
PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies and community organizations. The programs’ emphasis on community engagement, prevention and intervention measures, focused and strategic enforcement, and measurement and accountability has helped achieve overall reductions in violent crime, including gun homicides, in neighborhoods where PSN strategies have been implemented.
The awards announced above are being made as part of the regular end-of-fiscal year cycle. More information about awards under PSN and other OJP grants can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Two skilled nursing care centers resolve allegations of Americans with Disabilities Act violationsRead the Press Release
Seattle – Two nursing home chains in Western Washington have resolved allegations they violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by denying admission to prospective residents because of their Substance Use Disorder (SUD). One of the nursing home groups resolved a second ADA complaint that it failed to provide a sign-language interpreter for a patient who is deaf.
“It can be difficult to find appropriate nursing home care for our loved ones,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. “It should not be made more difficult by care centers who discriminate against those with disabilities, violating the ADA. I am pleased that both skilled nursing groups identified in these cases are changing their policies and training to comply with the ADA.”
Avalon Health Care Management Inc. manages three care centers in Western Washington: Avalon Care Center Federal Way; Benson Heights Rehabilitation Center; and Grays Harbor Health and Rehabilitation. The company previously managed Willapa Harbor Health and Rehabilitation. An investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office determined that Avalon facilities engaged in discrimination by denying admission to individuals with a Substance Use Disorder (SUD). The U.S. Attorney’s Office found that in some instances, patients were denied admission because they were prescribed FDA approved medication for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). As part of the settlement Avalon will submit a draft non-discrimination policy to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for review. After approval, Avalon will post the policy at its facilities and will train its employees and contractors on the policy and on medications to treat SUD. Avalon will keep training and admission logs for review by the government and will alert government investigators to any ADA complaints. Avalon is to pay the government $12,000. However, $10,000 of the penalty is suspended pending successful compliance with the requirements of the settlement.
Arcadia Medical Resorts operates two skilled nursing care facilities in Renton as well as facilities in University Place and Union Gap, Washington. The U.S. Attorney’s Office investigation determined that individuals were denied admission to the Arcadia facilities because of their Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Arcadia agrees to update its policies and not discriminate against persons who have been prescribed medication for their Opioid Use Disorder. The chain will undertake new training and keep logs of training and patient admissions. Any ADA complaints will be forwarded to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Like Avalon, Arcadia will pay the government $12,000. However, $10,000 of the penalty is suspended pending successful compliance with the requirements of the settlement.
Finally, in a different settlement, Avalon Health Care - Federal Way LLC, has agreed to pay a patient who is deaf $20,500, for violating the ADA by failing to provide the patient with a qualified sign-language interpreter while the patient was recovering from back surgery. The patient was in the facility from February 18, 2021, to March 11, 2021. Avalon did not act on the patient’s requests for a sign-language interpreter so the patient could not communicate with staff about her treatment plan or physical therapy.
Avalon disputes many of the government findings, but to avoid the cost and uncertainty of litigation, is choosing to resolve the matter. The settlement requires Avalon to put training, policies, and procedures in place to ensure staff do not violate the ADA and provide appropriate communication devices or services to the patients who need such assistance. The settlement lists a number of required improvements regarding evaluations, contracting, dissemination of policies and complaint tracking. The government will review the compliance for 18 months.
The patient who is deaf was referred to the U.S. Attorney’s Office by the Northwest Justice Project.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington has investigated several similar complaints from patients who are deaf or hard of hearing regarding failures to provide communication assistance in the health care setting. Those settlements are detailed in the Disability Rights section of our website.
Two Members of Newark Sex, Money, Murder Gang Charged with Murder in Aid of RacketeeringRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Two members of the Sex, Money, Murder (SMM) street gang operating in the Bradley Court Housing Complex were charged by criminal complaint with murder in aid of racketeering, conspiracy, and firearms offenses, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Tyler Shorter, aka “Money Bags,” aka “Bags,” 19; and Amir Canty, aka “Blast,” 20; both of Newark, are charged by complaint with one count each of conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering, murder in aid of racketeering and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. They made their initial court appearances on Oct. 25, 2023, before U.S. magistrate Judge José R. Almonte in Newark federal court and were detained.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Shorter and Canty were members of the SMM street gang set operating in the Bradley Court Housing Complex, known as M-Blok. SMM is known for drug distribution in and around its controlled territory, fraud schemes, and interstate transportation of stolen property, as well as for violence against numerous rival neighborhoods and gangs. Among other things, Shorter and Canty used social media and rap music to tout the power of SMM in an effort to keep victims and rivals in fear of the gang. SMM has been involved in an escalating feud with a rival neighborhood-based gang known as GBlock, whose members are affiliated with the Grape Street Crips and operate in the area of Goodwin Avenue in Newark.
Shorter and the victim, Nyshon Anthony, were rival rappers representing their respective gangs and neighborhoods. After an exchange of threatening and disrespectful music videos and songs released between the rival gangs, on Nov. 8, 2022, Shorter allegedly shot and killed the Anthony on South Orange Avenue in Newark, with the assistance of Canty.
The murder in aid of racketeering charges are punishable by a mandatory sentence of life in prison and a potential capital punishment.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents and task force officers of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark; detectives with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanked the Newark Police Department, under the direction of Director Fritz G. Fragé, the New Jersey State Police under the direction of Superintendent Col. Patrick J. Callahan, and the Nassau County Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder.
This case is part of the Violent Crime Initiative (VCI) in Newark. The VCI was formed in August 2017 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, and the City of Newark’s Department of Public Safety to combat violent crime in and around Newark. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate and pool resources to prosecute violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office; the FBI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Division; the U.S. Marshals; the Newark Department of Public Safety; the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office; the Essex County Sheriff’s Office; the N.J. State Board of Parole; the Union County Jail; the N.J. State Police Regional Operations and Intelligence Center/Real Time Crime Center; the N.J. Department of Corrections; the East Orange Police Department; and the Irvington Police Department.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Goldberg of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Unit in Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
shortercanty.complaint.pdfTucson Man Arrested for Mass Shooting Threat at University of ArizonaRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Michael Lee, 27, of Tucson, was arrested yesterday on a federal complaint warrant by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Southern Arizona Violent Crime and Gang Task Force for transmitting threats through interstate communications for threatening to commit a mass shooting at the University of Arizona.
The complaint alleges that Lee transmitted threats to commit a mass shooting at the university in a group chat on Snapchat. Lee is not a student at the university but expressed a desire to get revenge on “all the chads and stacies!!” “Chads” and “stacies” are commonly used terms by self-described involuntary celibates (incels). Lee made further reference to incel ideology, and finished the conversation by stating “im gonna do it guys, my mind is made up and there’s nothing u can do or say to stop me.”
The United States will have 30 days from arrest to indict Lee. A complaint is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the University of Arizona Police Department, as part of the FBI’s Southern Arizona Violent Crime and Gang Task Force, conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Rossi, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: 23-02094MJ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-160_Lee# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy and Possession with Intent to Distribute 22 Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Hutto, Texas man pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
According to court documents, Donald Lamont Griffin, 44, was stopped for a traffic violation on November 7, 2022, on Highway I-10, in Harrison County, MS. The Harrison County Deputy who initiated the stop requested assistance from a police K9. The K9 conducted a sniff of Griffin’s vehicle and alerted. A subsequent search yielded 22 kilograms of cocaine from the vehicle.
Griffin will be sentenced on February 7, 2024, and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a maximum of life in prison as to each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi and Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose is prosecuting the case.
Suffolk Man Pleads Guilty to $2M Medicare FraudRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A Suffolk man pleaded guilty today to conspiring to defraud health insurance programs of more than $2 million through fraudulent claims for braces and other medical equipment.
According to court documents, in 2017, Julian Latty, 40, and his co-conspirator Jordan Thomas Broome, 37, of Texas, formed a Virginia Beach company called Beach Medical Suppliers LLC (Beach Medical). They registered Beach Medical to receive Medicare reimbursements in 2018. For the next two years, Latty and Broome used Beach Medical to fraudulently bill Medicare for over $4 million in reimbursements for durable medical equipment, which included back braces and knee braces. They obtained the personally identifiable information of Medicare beneficiaries then paid doctors to sign prescriptions for braces that the beneficiaries did not need. Between December 4, 2018, and October 7, 2020, Beach Medical billed Medicare for durable medical equipment reimbursement for approximately 2,025 beneficiaries who had no prior relationship with the doctor who signed the prescription. Beach Medical also billed other health care benefit programs, such as Medicaid and Tricare, for fraudulent claims. The investigation started when beneficiaries complained to Medicare that they were receiving braces in the mail that they had never requested.
In December 2019, Latty and Broome met with an attorney Beach Medical had retained who advised them that its operations were likely illegal. However, they continued to submit fraudulent reimbursements until federal authorities executed a search warrant at Beach Medical’s offices in September 2020.
In March 2023, Broome was sentenced to 66 months of imprisonment for his role in the conspiracy.
Latty is scheduled to be sentenced on February 29, 2024. He faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Brian Dugan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; and Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Elizabeth W. Hanes accepted the plea.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Gantt is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-121.
State College Man Sentenced to Twenty Years’ Imprisonment for Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kristopher R. Hall, age 46, formerly of State College, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by the Honorable Jennifer P. Wilson to 20 years’ imprisonment to be followed by 20 years of supervised released based upon his previously entered guilty plea for attempting to produce images containing the sexual exploitation of a child. Hall is currently incarcerated at the Dauphin County Prison on related local charges.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Hall solicited a 14-year-old female to send him sexually explicit images and engaged in a sexual relationship with that victim for approximately six months. Hall also solicited and received sexually explicit images from three additional minor females. Hall pleaded guilty in the Court of Common Pleas for Cumberland County to indecent sexual assault of a person under the age of 16 regarding his relationship with the 14-year-old female victim and is scheduled to be sentenced for that offense on October 31, 2023.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
The case was investigated by the State College Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul J. Miovas and Criminal Chief Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler prosecuted the case.
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St. Louis Man Admits Making, Selling Fake Temporary Vehicle License Tags and Dealer PlatesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS –A man from St. Louis, Missouri on Thursday admitted manufacturing and selling fake temporary vehicle license tags, fake dealer plates and bogus insurance identification cards.
Mario C. Cooks, 35, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to three felony counts of fraudulent transfer of an authentication feature. He admitted producing and selling 329 fake temporary tags and 27 fake insurance cards as well as dealer license plates. According to Cooks, he sold the fake temporary tags for $60 each and the fake dealer plates for $650 each.
The investigation began when the St. Charles Police Department learned that Cooks was selling fake temporary tags and dealer license plates. In June of 2022, an undercover officer arranged to buy a counterfeit temporary tag from Cooks for $60, Cooks’ plea says. In subsequent transactions, Cooks sold the officer two counterfeit motor vehicle insurance identification cards and two more counterfeit temporary tags.
In a court-approved search of Cooks’ home on Dec. 15, 2022, investigators found computer equipment, a printer, two counterfeit motor vehicle insurance identification cards, blank sheets of temporary Missouri Department of Revenue paper with authentication features, counterfeit temporary tags, fraudulent Missouri dealer license plates and blank stock check paper, Cooks’ plea agreement says. A forensic analysis of the computer equipment revealed Cooks’ history of producing hundreds of fake tags.
The plea says that those who are trying to hide their possession of a stolen vehicle or dodge their financial obligations as vehicle owners often purchase fake temporary tags and other documents.
Cooks is scheduled to be sentenced January 25. He could face up to ten years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both prison and a fine.
The case was investigated by the St. Charles Police Department, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the U.S. Secret Service and the Missouri Department of Revenue. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy Berry is prosecuting the case.
St. Joseph Man Sentenced for Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A St. Joseph, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute more than two kilograms of heroin.
Harvey E. Johnson, 50, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to 12 years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Johnson to forfeit to the government $43,200, which represents the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking.
On Aug. 4, 2021, Johnson pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute heroin in the St. Joseph area from Sept. 1, 2019, to March 26, 2021.
Johnson was in possession of approximately 51 grams of heroin when he was arrested on March 16, 2021, after fleeing from law enforcement officers in a high-speed car chase. According to court documents, Johnson is responsible for distributing at least 2.835 kilograms of heroin, which is over 28,000 potentially lethal, 0.1-gram “doses” of the drug.
Johnson was on state parole following his conviction on drug charges during his involvement in the drug-trafficking conspiracy.
Co-defendant Roderick A. Hughes, 50, was sentenced on Oct. 10, 2023, to 17 years in federal prison without parole after pleading guilty to his role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. According to court documents, Hughes is responsible for distributing at least 461.9 grams of heroin, which is over 4,600 potentially lethal, 0.1-gram “doses” of the drug.
Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Hughes’s apartment on Feb. 23, 2021. Officers found a silver revolver on the kitchen table. They also found a loaded Glock 9mm handgun on a nightstand in the bedroom, a Stoeger 9mm handgun and a Jennings Bryco 9mm handgun on a shelf in the bedroom, and a black safe under the bed that contained 23.4 grams of heroin and $4,703 in cash. Officers also searched the garage and found three plastic bags with a total of 96.3 grams of heroin hidden in the rafters.
Co-defendant Franklin T. Hicks Jr., also known as “Frankie,” 43, of St. Joseph, pleaded guilty on May 31, 2022, to his role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy and two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 1, 2023. Hicks was arrested outside of a hotel in St. Joseph on Jan. 22, 2021. He was in possession of 35.8 grams of heroin and $2,687 in cash. Officers also found a loaded Rock Island Armory .380-caliber handgun under the driver’s seat of his car and a Ruger 9mm handgun in the glovebox.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Byron H. Black. It was investigated by the St. Joseph, Mo., Police Department, the Buchanan County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Springfield Man Involved in Shooting Sentenced for Illegal FirearmsRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing firearms on four separate occasions, including an incident that involved a shooting in a neighborhood.
Darris Lamar Mull, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 11 years and three months in federal prison without parole.
On Dec. 19, 2022, Mull pleaded guilty to four counts of being a felon in possession of firearms. Mull admitted he was in possession of a Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol and a Kel-Tec pistol with an extended 30-round magazine on Dec. 6, 2020.
He also possessed firearms on Dec. 15, 2017, when law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at his residence and found a firearm in the dining room and another firearm in the closet; on March 30, 2018, when police officers searched Mull’s vehicle after a traffic stop and found a loaded firearm in the glove box; and on Sept. 2, 2021, when officers found a loaded firearm in his backpack following a foot chase.
Mull, along with co-defendants Cartevion Marquis Chapman, 35, and Nicholas David Caligone, 45, both of Springfield, was involved in a shooting and retaliatory shooting that occurred on Dec. 5 and 6, 2020, over allegations that Mull had stolen drugs from another individual.
Chapman’s vehicle was damaged in a drive-by shooting at Zan Nightclub in downtown Springfield on Dec. 5, 2020. After leaving the nightclub, Chapman met with Mull. Mull received a phone call from his girlfriend, who said the individuals responsible for the shooting at the club were armed and inside their house looking for him. Mull was upset because they went to his house when his kids were present. They went to check on Mull’s girlfriend and children, then Caligone drove Chapman and Mull to find the people who had been at his house, who were at an address on Kerr Street in Springfield.
When they arrived at the Kerr Street residence at about 6 a.m. on Dec. 6, 2020, Chapman told investigators, they got out of the car and “bullets went flying.”
Chapman, Mull and others fired multiple rounds; police officers recovered 40 spent shell casings from the area of the shooting. Shell casings were found in front of at least eight separate residences, indicating that Chapman and Mull sprayed the neighborhood with bullets. At least two of the homes had damage consistent with being struck by gunfire.
Chapman and Mull got into Caligone’s Volkswagen immediately after the shooting and left the area. According to the evidence presented at today’s sentencing hearing, Chapman handed his Kel-Tec firearm to Mull, who put it under the front passenger seat, and put Mull’s Smith & Wesson pistol, which was stolen, in the glovebox. Springfield police officers who heard the gunshots saw Caligone’s vehicle at the intersection of East Kearney and North Delaware and conducted a traffic stop. Caligone, who was driving, Chapman, who was in the front passenger seat, and Mull, who was in the back passenger seat, were arrested.
Investigators determined that some of the expended cartridges recovered from the scene of the Kerr Street shooting came from the two guns found in Caligone’s vehicle and others were fired from two other guns that were not recovered.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Mull has two prior felony convictions for forgery and a prior felony conviction for non-support.
The government’s sentencing motion notes that violent crimes committed with firearms is a significant issue in southwest Missouri. According to the National Incident Based Reporting System, the Springfield Police Department reported 734 violent crimes committed with firearms and 19 homicides in 2021, with approximately 79 percent of the homicides being committed with a firearm. The Greene County Sheriff’s Department reported 44 violent crimes committed with firearms and six homicides, all committed with firearms.
Although violent crime numbers were down slightly in Springfield in 2022, illegal possession and use of firearms have increased. In 2022, Springfield police officers seized 229 illegal guns, an increase from the 150 illegal guns seized in 2021. There was also a record high of “shots fired” calls in 2022, with a total of 356 incidents that resulted in 73 injuries.
Chapman was sentenced on April 4, 2023, to nine years and seven months in federal prison without parole after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms. Caligone pleaded guilty on July 5, 2022, to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 16, 2023.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
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.
Spirit Lake Man Guilty of Illegal Possession of Firearm in Spencer, IowaRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed a firearm pled guilty October 25, 2023, in federal court in Sioux City.
Andrew Mitchell, 36, from Spirit Lake, Iowa, was convicted of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
Evidence shows that, on August 8, 2023, law enforcement stopped Mitchell for riding his bike on the wrong side of the road in Spencer, Iowa. Once stopped, Mitchell was recognized and identified by the stopping officer due to prior interactions. However, Mitchell provided a false name. Other officers arrived and attempted to handcuff Mitchell while his proper identity was determined. Mitchell resisted being handcuffed and was placed under arrest for interference. During a search of Mitchell upon arrest, law enforcement located a suspected THC vape pen, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, a scale with methamphetamine residue, and a loaded 9mm firearm with an obliterated serial number strapped to his chest. At the plea hearing, Mitchell admitted to being a user of controlled substances which prohibit him from possessing firearms.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Mitchell remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Mitchell faces a possible maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and not more than 3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
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 is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Spencer, Iowa Police Department, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-4060. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
South Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Obstructing Justice in the Murder of a Black Transgender WomanRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A South Carolina man pleaded guilty today to obstructing an investigation into the December 2019 murder of a transgender woman.
According to court documents, on Aug. 15, 2019, Xavier Pinckney, 24, of Allendale, provided false and misleading information to state authorities investigating the murder of Dime Doe, a transgender woman. Pinckney admitted that he concealed from state authorities the use of his phone to call and text Dime Doe the day of her murder and lied to state investigators about seeing Daqua Ritter, who allegedly shot Doe to death, on the morning of Doe’s murder.
“The defendant is being held accountable for trying to obstruct an investigation into the tragic murder of a Black transgender woman,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Acts of violence against LGBTQI+ people, including transgender women of color, are on the rise and have no place in our society. The Justice Department remains steadfast in its commitment to investigating and prosecuting those who target LGBTQI+ people with acts of violence or who try to unlawfully obstruct investigations into these heinous crimes.”
“Hate has no place in South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs for the District of South Carolina. “The senseless murder of Dime Doe, and any act of violence against the LGBTQI+ community, confirms the need to confront hate in all its forms. Our office will continue to pursue justice for those impacted by bias-motivated crimes.”
“The defendant’s guilty plea underscores our commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions in the pursuit of justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Steve Jensen of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “The FBI and our partners remain determined to investigate crimes against marginalized communities and those who perpetrate them.”
Pinckney faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the obstruction of justice offense. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Columbia Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brook Andrews, Ben Garner and Elle Klein for the District of South Carolina and Trial Attorney Andrew Manns of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.
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South Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Obstructing Justice in the Murder of a Black Transgender WomanRead the Press Release
A South Carolina man pleaded guilty today to obstructing an investigation into the December 2019 murder of a transgender woman.
According to court documents, on Aug. 15, 2019, Xavier Pinckney, 24, of Allendale, provided false and misleading information to state authorities investigating the murder of Dime Doe, a transgender woman. Pinckney admitted that he concealed from state authorities the use of his phone to call and text Dime Doe the day of her murder and lied to state investigators about seeing Daqua Ritter, who allegedly shot Doe to death, on the morning of Doe’s murder.
“The defendant is being held accountable for trying to obstruct an investigation into the tragic murder of a Black transgender woman,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Acts of violence against LGBTQI+ people, including transgender women of color, are on the rise and have no place in our society. The Justice Department remains steadfast in its commitment to investigating and prosecuting those who target LGBTQI+ people with acts of violence or who try to unlawfully obstruct investigations into these heinous crimes.”
“Hate has no place in South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs for the District of South Carolina. “The senseless murder of Dime Doe, and any act of violence against the LGBTQI+ community, confirms the need to confront hate in all its forms. Our office will continue to pursue justice for those impacted by bias-motivated crimes.”
“The defendant’s guilty plea underscores our commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions in the pursuit of justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Steve Jensen of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “The FBI and our partners remain determined to investigate crimes against marginalized communities and those who perpetrate them.”
Pinckney faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the obstruction of justice offense. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Columbia Field Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brook Andrews, Ben Garner and Elle Klein for the District of South Carolina and Trial Attorney Andrew Manns of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.
Sioux City Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Meth ConvictionRead the Press Release
A man who possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced in federal court in Sioux City on October 24, 2023, to 144 months’ imprisonment.
Kelly Malloy, 55, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty June 13, 2023, to possession with intent to distribute and aiding and abetting another in the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that on October 26, 2022, Malloy was stopped by Le Mars Police Department. During the traffic stop law enforcement located over 76 grams of pure methamphetamine partially concealed under the seat where Malloy was seated. Further evidence showed he intended to distribute some or all of the methamphetamine to another person. Malloy has an extensive criminal history including multiple convictions for eluding, possession of controlled substances, assaults, and a prior federal conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine conviction.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Malloy was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment and will serve a 5-year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Malloy remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Le Mars Police Department and the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-4007. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sex Offender Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Hundreds of Thousands of Child Sex Abuse Images and Stealing Thousands of Rounds of Ammunition from U.S. MilitaryRead the Press Release
EVANSVILLE- Timothy Guy, 76, of Martin County, Indiana, has been sentenced to 5 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon, receiving stolen U.S. government property, and possession of child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, from 1966 through 2004, Timothy Guy was employed as an explosive’s handler at the Crane Army Ammunition Activity. While working at Crane, he falsified documents to make it appear that ammunition had been destroyed, when in reality, he stole the ammunition and smuggled it out of the facility.
In 2018, Guy was found guilty of possessing child sexual abuse material after he was caught viewing the material at a Wendy’s restaurant—where he went to utilize the free Wi-Fi.
On April 30, 2021, a community corrections officer found an unregistered computer in Guy’s home during a routine sex offender check. Guy admitted to having flash drives that contained child sexual abuse material. A Martin County Sheriff’s deputy assisting the corrections officers quickly located over 250,000 images of children under 12 years old, on 875 data storage discs and 60 thumb drives. Guy was again arrested for possession of child sexual abuse material.
Indiana State Police investigators and Martin County Sheriff’s deputies began a search of Guy’s property following his April 30 arrest and discovered a cellar door. When a deputy checked the cellar, he located a large amount of ammunition and other material. Investigators later obtained a search warrant and recovered 10,000 rounds of ammunition, valued at over $1,000 and five firearms including three rifles and two pistols.
Guy is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his previous felony conviction of possession of child sexual abuse material.
“Undeterred by a prior conviction, the defendant possessed an enormous number of images of the most horrendous traumas inflicted upon countless innocent children, collected over many years, involving countless victims,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers. “Even worse, he abused the position he was entrusted with to help keep our country safe, and instead stole an enormous quantity of deadly ammunition, despite being a convicted felon and forever barred by law from having guns or ammunition. I commend the work of the ATF, ISP, Department of Defense, and Martin County Sheriff’s Office and our prosecutor for their work to hold this criminal accountable and make our community safer by getting him off our streets.”
“I applaud the investigative team and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their commitment to bring dangerous individuals like Mr. Guy to justice, putting an end to his reprehensible actions,” stated Special Agent in Charge Darrin K. Jones, DoD Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southeast Field Office. “This significant sentencing demonstrates our commitment to root out criminals associated with the DoD and safeguard the most vulnerable among us.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Department of Defense, Criminal Investigative Service, Indiana State Police, and Martin County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge, Richard L. Young. Judge Young also ordered that Guy be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 6 years following his release from federal prison and register as a sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger, who prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
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Serial Kidnapper and Rapist Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who committed five sexual assaults in five years, two of which occurred during federal kidnappings, was sentenced October 24, 2023, to 40 years in federal prison.
Arjune Ahmed, age 27, of South Sioux City, Nebraska, and formerly of Ethiopia, received the prison term after a March 3, 2023, jury verdict finding him guilty of two counts of kidnapping.
Evidence at trial showed on August 21, 2019, Ahmed followed a woman from the Hard Rock Casino on Fourth Street, where he tricked her into getting close to his car. Once she was close, he grabbed her and pulled her into his car. He then sped into Nebraska from Iowa, where he sexually assaulted her. His August 21, 2019, victim testified that when he was done with her, he cursed her and pushed her out of his car at a rural location.
Trial evidence also showed that 13 months later, on October 16, 2020, Ahmed used social media to trick a woman into meeting him for breakfast. Instead of driving her to breakfast, Ahmed took her from midtown Sioux City to Bacon Creek Park where he sexually assaulted her. His October 16, 2020, victim testified that when he was done with her, he discarded her in the woods.
The jury also heard evidence that in 2015 a woman was the victim of a home-invasion and sexual assault. That crime went unsolved for nearly five years until DNA evidence discovered in the investigations of the 2019 and 2020 kidnappings was linked to Ahmed.
Additionally, at sentencing, the United States proved defendant kidnapped and sexually assaulted two additional victims. One of whom was attacked on October 31, 2017, and another on July 25, 2018. Both incidents occurred in downtown Sioux City where Ahmed lured the women into his car with promises of a ride home, but instead, took them to an isolated location where he sexually assaulted or attempted to sexually assault them. In both cases the victims were able to fight off and escape Ahmed.
Ahmed has previously been convicted of several assaults, criminal trespassing, public indecency, disturbing the peace, and obstructing a peace officer.
Ahmed was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand to 480 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Timothy Duax stated that, “Due the fine work of multiple local, state and federal law enforcement, a dangerous individual who preyed upon the women of our community has been brought to justice. For roughly the next forty years, the victims of Mr. Ahmed can sleep soundly knowing he can’t hurt them.”
Ahmed is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Dakota County, Nebraska Sherriff’s Office, the South Sioux City, Nebraska Police Department, the Sioux City, Iowa Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-04087.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Child PornographyRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Stephen Edward Cobb, 62, of Gainesville, Florida, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. The sentence was announced by Jason R. Coody, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
“Protecting innocent children from sexual predators remains one of our highest priorities,” said U.S. Attorney Coody. “I commend our law enforcement partners and prosecutors who work diligently to identify these predators and bring them to justice so that they can no longer exploit any child again. Due to their efforts, our community is safer, and this repeat offender is exactly where he belongs – back behind bars.”
In December 2021, law enforcement officers in Gainesville, Florida received information that Cobb was involved in sharing a video of child pornography using the Internet. Cobb is a convicted sex offender required to register under both state and federal law. In June 2022, Cobb was located, and search warrants were obtained for his cell phones and social media accounts. The devices and social media accounts were examined and found to contain hundreds of images and videos of child pornography.
Cobb is a registered sex offender based on a prior state conviction in 2018 for Lewd and Lascivious Assault on a Child.
“The decades long sentence in this case is based in part on the history of victimization caused by the offender, including harm to a child in this community,” said North Florida ICAC Task Force Commander Chris King. “We are thankful for our partnership with the U.S Attorney’s Office which helped achieve this result.”
“This predatorial recidivist didn’t learn his lesson the first time and continued to victimize children,” said HSI Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge K. Jim Phillips. “Thanks to the diligence of HSI and the Gainesville Police Department, we were able hold Cobb accountable for his deviant actions once again.”
Cobb’s prison sentence will be followed by a Lifetime of supervised release. Cobb will continue to be required to register as a sex offender and be subject to all sex offender conditions.
The case was investigated by Internet Crime Against Children Task Force Gainesville Police Department and Department of Homeland Security. Assistant United States Attorney Frank Williams prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Voluntary Manslaughter and Child AbuseRead the Press Release
PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court, has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter and Child Abuse. The sentencing took place on October 24, 2023.
Noah Virgil White Lance, III, age 34, was sentenced to a total of 18 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
White Lance was indicted by a federal grand jury in November of 2022. He pleaded guilty on July 10, 2023.
In early August of 2022, the Defendant and his two daughters relocated from Rapid City, South Dakota, to Mission, South Dakota. While residing in Mission, the Defendant would physically abuse his younger daughter by striking her in the head and body. The Defendant would also order his older daughter to abuse his younger daughter as a form of discipline. On August 11, the Defendant instructed his older daughter to discipline his younger daughter for violating bathroom privileges. In line with the Defendant’s orders, the older daughter abused her sister. The younger daughter became non-responsive during the abuse and succumbed to her injuries two days later after attempts at medical intervention were unsuccessful. An autopsy revealed traumatic head injuries, multiple rib fractures at various stages of healing, and multiple cuts and bruises. The cause of death was determined to be traumatic brain injury due to non-accident trauma. The fatal injury was likely inflicted previously and the symptoms were exacerbated by the older sibling.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Abby Roesler prosecuted the case.
White Lance was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Raleigh Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for His Role in a Mail Theft SchemeRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man was sentenced yesterday to 24 months in prison for possession of stolen mail. On July 18, 2023, Anthony Messiah Brooks, age 21, pled guilty to one count of Possession of Stolen Mail and one count of Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Mail. 500 pieces of mail recovered from a search of Brooks’ residence contained checks, U.S. currency, money orders, gift certificates, and personal identifying information for unknown individuals. At least six victims have been identified with losses of more than $30,000 although it is anticipated that there are additional victims. As part of the judgment, Brooks will be ordered to pay criminal restitution to victims in this case.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Raleigh Police Department investigated multiple occurrences of theft from U.S. Postal Service collection boxes throughout Raleigh between May and August 2022. These boxes can only be accessed by a U.S. Postal Service master key. As a result of that investigation, Brooks was found in possession of 500 pieces of mail. There is also evidence that Brooks used social media to recruit and communicate with others involved in the conspiracy. Specifically, there were direct messages to other users regarding bank account balances, photos of checks, and discussions of various meeting locations at banks.
“As it has for almost 250 years, our US Postal Service operates largely upon the trust and good faith of our citizens not to abuse it,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “Unfortunately, there are those in our society who see that system of trust as an opportunity for profit, by stealing from the mail and converting the contents for financial gain. We are proud to partner with the United States Postal Inspection Service which works tirelessly to hold accountable those who abuse our mail system to enrich themselves.”
“The Postal Inspection Service takes great pride in protecting postal customers from criminal activity related to the U.S. mail” said Tommy D. Coke, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service. “Postal Inspectors along with our local law enforcement partners will continue to vigorously investigate and seek criminal prosecution of those who use the U.S. mail to further their criminal activity.”
At the sentencing hearing Brooks, who had no prior criminal record, only faced an advisory guideline sentence of 6 to 12 months. The Court, however, departed upwardly from the guideline to impose two years in prison. In doing so, the Court noted that Brooks’ conduct was egregious, and that a more significant punishment was needed to deter Brooks and others from stealing mail from, and perpetrating fraud against, the community.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Raleigh Police Department investigated the case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa Labresh and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Warlick prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:22-CR-00068-D.
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Putnam Community Medical Center of North Florida Agrees to Pay One Million Dollars to Settle False Claims Liability Related to Its Former Sleep CenterRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces today that Putnam Community Medical Center of North Florida, who owns and operated Putnam Community Medical Center, LLC, a 99-bed hospital located in Palatka, Florida, has agreed to pay the United States $1million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting claims to Medicare and TRICARE in connection with a now-closed sleep center that were alleged to have operated with inadequate physician supervision.
According to the settlement agreement, Putnam Community Medical Center provided diagnostic sleep testing services at its now-closed sleep center, which the United States and the State of Florida allege were not provided with adequate physician supervision as required under certain Medicare coverage determinations and regulations during the period from December 2013 through February 2019.
“Protecting Medicare and TRICARE patients is paramount,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg. “This civil settlement demonstrates our continuing commitment to hold accountable those who abuse the nation’s healthcare programs at the expense of the taxpayers.”
“Providers who participate in federal health care programs must follow the law governing the integrity of federally funded health care programs such as Medicare and Medicaid,” said Stephen Mahmood, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG is committed to protecting the integrity of the Medicare and Medicaid programs and the people it serves. We will continue to work with the United States Attorney’s Office and other law enforcement partners to address allegations brought under the False Claims Act.”
The settlement concludes a lawsuit originally filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida by Relator Willard Revels, a former sleep center employee. Mr. Revels sued under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act permitting private citizens to sue on behalf of the United States for false claims and to share in the recovery. The Act also allows the United States to intervene and prosecute the action. The Relator will receive $300,000 of the proceeds from the settlement with the defendants.
This settlement resulted from effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, working with the HHS Office of Inspector General, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Kelley C. Howard-Allen led the investigation.
The government’s action in this matter illustrates the emphasis on combating health care fraud, and one of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The case is captioned United States, State of Florida ex rel. Willard Revels v. Putnam Community Medical Center of North Florida, LLC, et al., Case No. 3:19-cv-834-J-32JRK. The settlement agreement was filed in court today . The settlement resolves the United States’ claims in that case. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. Putnam Community Center of North Florida denies the allegations.
Download Settlement AgreementPittsburgh Resident Sentenced for Conspiring with Others to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced by a federal District Court Judge for her role in conspiring with others to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
The defendant, Stephane Harrilla, had earlier entered a plea of guilty to a one count Indictment charging her with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute a quantity of the drug Fentanyl. According to the facts presented to the Court at the time of her guilty plea Harrilla admitted receiving a package in the United States Mail which was found to contain counterfeit Oxycodone “M-30” fentanyl tablets. The evidence showed that Harrilla was paid $200 by another individual to receive the package and was obligated to pass that parcel on to that person.
Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand in sentencing Harrilla noted that she had no previous criminal convictions and was a minor participant in the drug distribution activity. Judge Weigand imposed a sentence of three years probation, including a period of 180 days of home detention with electronic location monitoring. Harrilla was also required to pay a $100 Special Assessment.
The matter was investigated by the Pittsburgh Office of the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to 151 Months in Prison for Robbing Two Camden County BanksRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Pennsylvania man was sentenced to 151 months in prison for robbing two banks in Camden County, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Leon I. Stanford, 54, of Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Joseph H. Rodriguez to an information charging him with two counts of bank robbery. Judge Rodriguez imposed the sentence on Oct. 24, 2023, in Camden federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Feb. 22, 2020, Stanford entered the TD Bank in Oaklyn, New Jersey, and handed the bank teller a note which announced a robbery and demanded cash. The bank teller complied, and witnesses saw him depart in a white SUV. On Feb. 24, 2020, Stanford entered the Republic Bank in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and handed the bank teller a note which announced a robbery and demanded cash. The bank teller complied, and witnesses saw Stanford depart in a white SUV.
Law enforcement officers were able to obtain a partial license plate number for the white SUV from surveillance videos in the area of both bank robberies, which generated a lead to a vehicle driven by Stanford, who was subsequently identified as the person in the bank surveillance videos.
At the time of these bank robberies, Stanford was on federal supervised release as a result of prior bank robbery convictions, for which he served a 10-year term of imprisonment.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Rodriguez sentenced Stanford to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Richard Langham in Philadelphia; the New York/New Jersey U.S. Marshals Regional Task Force Camden Division, under the direction of U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos Jr.; the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay; the Oaklyn Police Department, under the direction of Chief Jayne Jones; and the Cherry Hill Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert Kempf, with the investigation leading to the sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen M. Harberg in Camden.
Oregon Company Pays $1.7 Million for Accepting Payments from Unlicensed Money Transmitting BusinessRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon announced today that Oregon Tool, Inc., a Portland-based manufacturer of professional-grade cutting tools, which at all relevant times was known as Blount, Inc., has entered into a non-prosecution agreement and paid $1.7 million for accepting payments for products sold to two distributors transmitted through an unlicensed money transmitting business linked by the FBI to a trade-based money laundering scheme in Nigeria.
In December 2019, the FBI began investigating a criminal organization based in Nigeria that operated several online fraud schemes, including romance scams, targeting elderly women in the United States. Over the course of this investigation, the FBI identified a Nigeria-based black market currency exchange network that offered U.S. dollar deposits into U.S.-based bank accounts in exchange for Nigerian currency provided in Nigeria. The U.S. dollars transmitted by the network were the proceeds of financial fraud schemes perpetrated against at least two dozen victims in the United States.
Between 2012 and 2020, Blount’s two Nigerian distributors used the unlicensed money transmitting business to convert Nigerian naira to U.S. dollars which were used to pay for Blount products. In March 2012, the U.S. Secret Service notified Blount’s then-general counsel that the agency was preparing to seize one of the Nigerian distributor’s bank accounts, because it was allegedly being funded primarily by fraud and the proceeds were being used to pay Blount.
From November 2016 to December 2017, Blount credited more than $974,000 in deposits to the distributor. Those deposits originated from sources including individuals, many of whom the FBI later assessed were women in the United States over the age of 60 who had been the victim of romance fraud schemes; various business LLCs; and other anonymous cash depositors with no logical business relationship or established history with the distributor or Blount. Two of the deposits were made by an individual who believed the money would purchase artwork for someone they had met on a dating website. Another payment was made by a person residing in Beaverton, Oregon at the request of someone on a dating website.
Between April 2017 and February 2018, unbeknownst to Blount, a second Nigerian distributor received more than $652,000 to its U.S.-based bank account that the FBI linked to fraud. The distributor used these funds, which it received from multiple individuals in their late 60s, to pay Blount. As with the fraud victims associated with the first Nigerian distributor, the individuals who made these payments had no logical business relationship with Blount and several later reported being the victim of romance scams or other online fraud schemes.
In January 2022, the FBI notified Oregon Tool of its investigations involving the company and provided details of the fraudulent deposits made by its Nigerian distributors. Prior to this notification, Oregon Tool had, in November 2021, terminated its relationship with one of the two distributors. After the FBI’s notification, the company promptly terminated its association with the second.
Oregon Tool cooperated fully with the government’s investigation of this matter and, under new ownership, has implemented policies to prevent its future association with unlicensed money transmitting businesses. Among other remedial measures, the company has adopted a global anti-money laundering policy restricting third-party payments and an enhanced training program for relevant personnel. None of the senior executives implicated in the improper activity by Blount Inc. are currently employed by Oregon Tool.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI intend to file a civil forfeiture complaint against the $1.7 million paid by Oregon Tool and will seek to distribute those funds to victims of this fraud scheme.
This case was investigated by the FBI. The terms of this non-prosecution agreement were negotiated by the Criminal Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon. The related financial forfeitures are being handled by the Asset Recovery and Money Laundering Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
oregon_tool_npa_final_signed.pdfOFAC-Designated Colombian National Extradited to Face Charge of Distributing Cocaine InternationallyRead the Press Release
Tito Aldemar Ruano Yandun, also known as “Don T,” “Don Ti,” “Don Tito,” “Pedro Linares,” “Pedro AK2,” “Santos,” “Don Tuma,” “Viejo” and “Viejo Loco,” will be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Ramon E. Reyes, Jr., at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn on an indictment charging him with leading an international cocaine distribution conspiracy. The defendant, a Colombian citizen, was arrested in Colombia pursuant to a U.S. provisional arrest request and was extradited to the United States on October 25, 2023.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Deanne Reuter, Special Agent-in-Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, Miami Division (DEA); Edward A. Caban, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD); and Dominick L. Chiumento, Acting Superintendent, New York State Police (NYSP), announced the extradition and arraignment.
“As alleged, the defendant is a drug kingpin who led an international trafficking organization that produced and exported thousands of kilograms of cocaine from Colombia and Ecuador to the United States,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “This Office will continue to pursue and bring to justice the leaders of transnational criminal organizations, wherever they are in the world.”
Mr. Peace extended his appreciation to the DEA’s office in Bogota, Colombia, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Department of State, the Colombian National Police, and the Government of Colombia. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS) Judicial Attaché Office in Bogotá, Colombia provided valuable assistance with securing the arrest and extradition of Ruano Yandun.
“This indictment is a testament to the incredible hard work and resiliency of our investigators and speaks to the strength of our partnerships with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, as well as our international counterparts. DEA’s message is clear: we will continue to work relentlessly to dismantle and defeat the international drug trafficking organizations responsible for bringing this poison into our communities, threatening the safety and health of our citizens,” stated DEA Special Agent-in-Charge Reuter.
“This case proves again that New York City law enforcement has a very long reach and that anyone who participates in a criminal network – whether locally or globally – will be held to full account for their actions,” stated NYPD Commissioner Caban. “I thank the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, the DEA, the New York State Police, and all the members of OCDETF, for their dedication to this important long-term investigation.”
“This indictment speaks to the tremendous interagency coordination and cooperation necessary to get illegal drugs off our streets,” stated NYSP Acting Superintendent Chiumento. “As a result of this effort, a dangerous international drug trafficking operation, and the organized crime perpetuated by it, has been shut down. A drug like cocaine destroys communities and puts lives at risk. I applaud the U.S. Attorney’s Office and all involved law enforcement partners for their outstanding efforts in dismantling this operation. This case sends a clear message that we will not tolerate this illegal activity in our communities, and we will continue to work together to keep our communities safe.”
According to the indictment, court filings, and statements made in court, Ruano Yandun allegedly led a sophisticated drug trafficking organization (“DTO”) that operated in southwestern Colombia and Ecuador. After procuring cocaine from laboratories operating in Colombia, Ruano Yandun’s DTO arranged for the cocaine to be transported from Colombia and Ecuador through the Pacific Ocean via “go-fast vessels” (“GFVs”). Such GFVs typically carried several hundred kilograms of cocaine at a time. After being loaded with cocaine in Colombia or Ecuador, the GFVs would travel to Guatemala or other Central American countries. Upon successfully arriving in such countries, co-conspirators took possession of the cocaine and transported it by land into Mexico. Co-conspirators then usually sold the cocaine to Mexican DTOs, who would invariably smuggle the cocaine into the United States to be sold. The defendant’s organization exported thousands of kilograms of cocaine to Central America and Mexico so that it could eventually be smuggled into the United States. As part of the investigation, law enforcement authorities seized over 3,000 kilograms of cocaine attributable to Ruano Yandun’s drug trafficking enterprise.
On November 29, 2017, pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated Ruano Yandun and his organization as Specially Designated Narcotics Traffickers (SDNTs) for playing a significant role in international narcotics trafficking. At the time of the designation, OFAC explained that Ruano Yandun’s organization was “a key contributor to the increased cocaine production in the Nariño department of Colombia in recent years.”
The extradition of Ruano Yandun is the result 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 charge in the indictment is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment and up to life in prison.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Wang is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
TITO ALDEMAR RUANO YANDUN
Age: 48
ColombiaE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 17-CR-27 (WFK)
Northshore Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CODY SHAUGHNESSY, age 38, was sentenced on October 18, 2023, after previously pleading guilty to a four-count indictment charging him with violating of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), respectively. As to the three charges for distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and the one charge of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. SHAUGHNESSY was sentenced on each count to 84 months imprisonment, four years of supervised release, and a $400 mandatory special assessment fee. All sentences were run concurrently with each other.
According to court documents, between August 2022 and September 2022, SHAUGHNESSY sold 50 grams or more of methamphetamine to an undercover federal agent on three separate occasions . Additionally, at the time of his arrest, SHAUGHNESSY possessed, with intent to distribute, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Hammond Police Department, and the Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Non-Citizen Convicted of Hindering Removal to Trinidad and TobagoRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Brent Anthony Benito, age 39, citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, was convicted of hindering his removal to Trinidad and Tobago following a two-day jury trial before U.S. District Court Chief Judge Matthew W. Brann that concluded on October 24, 2023.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Benito entered the United States illegally in 2013 and in 2014, was convicted in Delaware County of sexual assault, and sentenced to 48-96 months’ imprisonment. In 2016, he was ordered removed from the United States and was scheduled for a flight back to Trinidad and Tobago in March 2022, but refused to be fingerprinted and board the plane. After another flight was scheduled to remove him from the United States in April 2022, he refused to take a Covid-19 test which was required to enter Trinidad and Tobago.
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Assistant United States Attorneys Alisan V. Martin and Geoffrey MacArthur are prosecuting the case.
Benito faces a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
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New York Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Trafficking in Susquehanna CountyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Roy Niles, age 58, of Nineveh, New York, pleaded guilty on October 26, 2023, before U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to the charge of conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Niles admitted to conspiring with another individual to distribute between 1.5 kilograms and 5 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine in the Susquehanna County area in March 2020. The charge stems from an incident in March 2020, in which Niles arranged to purchase several pounds of crystal methamphetamine from another individual in Susquehanna County. After the methamphetamine was received by Niles, the Pennsylvania State Police moved in and attempted to arrest him. Niles fled from the police and led police on a high-speed chase from Pennsylvania into New York. Niles was later apprehended.
The charge against the defendant resulted from an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Pennsylvania State Police. The New York State Police also provided assistance during the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Under federal law, the drug trafficking offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison, up to a maximum sentence of life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced on Federal Firearm and Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On October 18, 2023, DAMION WILSON, age 23, was sentenced to serve a total of 87 months in the custody of the United States Bureau of Prisons.
On June 27, 2023, DAMION WILSON, was found guilty of possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, maintaining a drug involved premises, and lying to a federal agent. He was acquitted of two other related counts.
As to his conviction for possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, a violation of United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D), he was sentenced to 27 months in prison, and two years of supervised release.
As to his conviction for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c), he was sentenced to sixty months in prison. This sentence must be served consecutively to the sentences imposed in the other counts of conviction. He was also sentenced to five years of supervised release.
As to his conviction for maintaining a drug involved premises, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 856, he was sentenced to twenty-seven months in prison, and three years of supervised release.
Lastly, as to his conviction for lying to a federal agent, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001, he was sentenced to twenty-seven months in prison, and a one year term of supervised release. For each count of conviction, WILSON also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshal’s Service, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the General Crimes Unit and Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ALVIE ROLLINS, a/k/a ALVIN ROLLINS, age 26, was sentenced on October 18, 2023 by United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
ROLLINS received a total sentence of 24 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court records, on August 4, 2022, two Task Force Officers (“TFO”) of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) New Orleans Gang Task Force, received information that that there was an FBI agent requesting assistance near the intersection of Dixon Street and South Carrollton Avenue, in New Orleans. Upon arrival, the TFOs’ saw two vehicles stopped side by side. The driver of one of the vehicle’s, later identified as ROLLINS, a Nissan Altima, held a black and silver pistol out of his open driver’s side window.
ROLLINS began to drive away, then pulled his vehicle over after hearing the FBI’s sirens. The FBI agents ordered ROLLINS out of the Nissan Altima and handcuffed him. ROLLINS admitted he was driving a red Nissan Altima at the intersection of Tulane Avenue & South Carrollton Avenue and was in possession of a firearm. ROLLINS also admitted knowing that he was convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year of imprisonment before he possessed this firearm.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Mike Trummel and Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Braunfels Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Selling Misbranded DrugsRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A New Braunfels man was sentenced in federal court in San Antonio to five years in prison for selling non-controlled but dangerous substances through the mail.
According to court documents, Evan Asher Field, 42, and codefendant Michael Dominic Diaz, 31, purchased bulk quantities of various drugs, including synthetic opioids and benzodiazepines, and re-sold them through a website Field created in September 2019.
The drugs, most of which originated in China and were not regulated or approved for any use by the FDA, can potentially cause toxic and fatal overdoses if consumed by humans. The two defendants repackaged the drugs into consumer-size containers and shipped them to various locations throughout the United States. The initial website remained online until September 2021, when Diaz launched a second website offering a nearly identical service.
Despite disclaimers on the website and product packaging stating “for research purposes only,” and “not for human consumption,” the two defendants were aware that customers were purchasing the substances for personal use and consuming the drugs. Multiple consumers suffered overdoses, including some which were fatal.
In addition to imprisonment, Field was also ordered to pay a $250,000 fine. Codefendant Diaz is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 21.
“The defendants in this case recklessly endangered the lives and well-being of the numerous individuals who purchased unregulated substances from them,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “We hope that this sentence brings attention to this type of conduct and serves as a warning to those who would engage in it.”
“Unapproved prescription drugs can present a serious health risk to those who buy and use them. The drugs can contain unknown ingredients and can be made under unknown conditions,” said Special Agent in Charge George A. Scavdis, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Metro Washington Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who traffic in unapproved and potentially dangerous drugs.”
“Synthetic drugs remain the primary driver of the opioid epidemic, and attempting to profit off the epidemic plaguing our communities is an apparent complete disregard for human life,” said Special Agent in Charge Daniel Comeaux for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Houston Field Office.
The FDA and DEA investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Chung and Amy Hail prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted utilizing resources from the Dark Market and Digital Currency Crimes (DMDCC) Task Force. The DMDCC Task Force is a joint effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, HSI – Baltimore, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Food and Drug Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Baltimore Police Department, and the Baltimore County Police Department, targeting the use of dark net marketplaces and digital currencies to facilitate criminal activities.
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National Prescription Drug Take Back Day to Remove Unneeded Prescriptions, Prevent AddictionRead the Press Release
DETROIT – The Drug Enforcement Administration will host its 25th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Saturday, Oct. 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event offers anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at more than 4,000 local drop-off locations nationwide.
For more than a decade, Take Back Day has helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medications—those that are old, unwanted, or expired. These medications can be a gateway to addiction, and have helped fuel the opioid epidemic. According to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a majority of people who use a prescription medication for a nonmedical purpose obtained that medication from a family member or friend.
“I encourage everyone to dispose of unneeded medications to help keep our communities safe and healthy,” said DEA Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge Orville O. Greene. “The Take Back campaign is part of DEA’s continued efforts to combat the drug poisoning epidemic and protect the safety and health of communities.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that in the U.S., more than 110,000 American lives were lost to drug poisonings and overdose in 2022.
DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other forms of prescription drugs. Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. The event will also continue to accept vaping devices and cartridges provided lithium batteries are removed.
A location finder and partner toolbox are available at www.DEATakeBack.com for easy reference to nearby collection sites. Beyond DEA’s Take Back Day, there are also opportunities to regularly and safely dispose of unneeded medications at close to 15,000 pharmacies, hospitals, and businesses working to help clean out medicine cabinets throughout the year. In addition, many police departments provide year-round drop boxes.
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Missouri Nonprofit Exec Accused of Multi-Million Dollar Student Meal FraudRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A nonprofit official was indicted by a federal grand jury Wednesday and accused of stealing millions of dollars from a program intended to feed low-income Missouri children, including during the coronavirus pandemic.
Connie Bobo, 44, of St. Charles, Missouri, was indicted on three felony counts of wire fraud, three counts of aggravated identity theft and two counts of obstruction of an official proceeding. Bobo is the executive director of New Heights Community Resource Center, which accepted money to provide meals to low-income, school-age children after school and during the summer.
The indictment accuses Bobo and New Heights of fraudulently claiming to have served at least three million meals to children between February 2019 and March 2022 – meals that New Heights neither actually purchased nor supplied. Relying on those false claims, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) paid Bobo about $11 million, the indictment says.
Bobo used $4.3 million to purchase a nearly $1 million home for herself, other homes for relatives and to make a $2.2 million commercial real estate investment, the indictment says. She spent more on luxury goods and gave nearly $1.4 million to her romantic partner, who spent $211,907 on a 2017 Mercedes-Benz G550 Wagon, the indictment says. The indictment seeks the forfeiture of the real estate and the SUV.
“This indictment shows that we will aggressively pursue those who defraud a program intended to feed needy children, and those who exploited loopholes created by a global pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming. “We will seize the houses and luxury vehicles that they buy with those funds and we will seek punishment that is appropriate for the scale of the crime, which by law includes repayment of the funds. Anyone with information about COVID-19 related fraud should contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud at 866-720-5721.”
New Heights and other non-profits are required by DHSS’ Food and Nutrition Program for Children to demonstrate proper management standards and ensure fiscal responsibility. They have to submit budgets and annual management plans to DHSS and are required to have a board that meets regularly and has the authority to hire and fire the executive director.
The indictment says Bobo submitted false management plans and falsely claimed that three people were serving on New Heights board. It says she submitted budgets that left out the money she was spending on real estate and luxury goods. The indictment also accuses Bobo of forging an invoice from a food vendor to falsely claim that New Heights had purchased hundreds of gallons of milk.
Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is handling the case for the Eastern District of Missouri.
Mexican National Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking FentanylRead the Press Release
ALPINE, Texas – A Mexican national was sentenced in a federal court in Alpine to 70 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court documents, Erick Botello Reyes, 21, attempted to enter the United States from Mexico at the Presidio Port of Entry on April 2. Upon inspection of his vehicle, a Customs and Border Protection K-9 alerted CBP Officers of a possible narcotics presence inside the vehicle’s dashboard. The officers searched the vehicle, locating 9.4 kilograms of cocaine and 347.3 grams of fentanyl. Reyes was then taken into custody. He pleaded guilty on June 29 to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
“Cutting off these trafficking attempts disrupts the activities of cartels and other drug trafficking organizations,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “In coordination with our federal, state and local partners, my office continues to hold accountable the individuals who bring fentanyl into the country and carelessly poison our communities.”
“The sad truth is that the fentanyl epidemic in our communities continues to claim so many lives and it’s utterly unacceptable," said Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola of the HSI El Paso Division. “HSI remains committed to investigate and ultimately dismantle drug smuggling organizations who attempt to smuggle and peddle deadly drugs in our communities. This sentence will give ample time for the defendant to think about his criminal activity behind bars.”
HSI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy Greenbaum and Matthew Ellis prosecuted the case.
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Mercer County Man Convicted of Several Carjackings Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury to VictimsRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Mercer County, New Jersey, man was convicted of carjacking, brandishing a firearm during the carjacking, two attempted carjackings resulting in serious bodily injury, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Cedrick Hodges, 40, of Trenton, New Jersey, was convicted on Oct. 24, 2023, of all five counts of a second superseding indictment following a seven-day trial before U.S. District Judge Zahid N. Quraishi in Trenton federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On the evening of Dec. 16, 2017, Hodges entered the rear passenger seat of a Toyota Camry and pointed a loaded sawed-off shotgun at the driver, demanding that she operate the vehicle while Hodges entered the rear seat. The driver exited the vehicle and ran, in response to which Hodges discharged the shotgun towards her as she fled.
Moments later, Hodges approached a Honda Accord occupied by a driver and one passenger. Hodges pointed the shotgun at the driver’s window demanding that the driver and passenger exit the vehicle. When the driver refused, and instead began to drive the vehicle away from Hodges, Hodges discharged the firearm into the driver’s side window, striking the driver in his torso, causing permanent and serious bodily injury.
Hodges fled the area and several minutes later approached a man who was entering a Nissan Rogue. Hodges demanded that the man hand Hodges the keys to the Nissan Rogue. When the man refused, Hodges brandished the shotgun and discharged the firearm at the man, causing permanent and serious bodily injury.
The count of carjacking carries a maximum potential sentence of 15 years in prison. The counts of attempted carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury each carry a maximum potential sentence of 25 years in prison. The count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence is punishable by a mandatory minimum of seven years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison, which must run consecutively to any term of imprisonment imposed on any other charges. The possession of firearm by a convicted felon carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. Sentencing has not yet been scheduled.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Thomas Mahoney; the Hamilton Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Kenneth R. DeBoskey; the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Superintendent Col. Patrick J. Callahan; the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri, the U.S. Marshals Service, under the direction of U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller, with the investigation leading to the guilty verdict.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric Suggs and Tracey Agnew of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.