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26 October 2023
Maryland Resident Sentenced to 5 Years Probation, Ordered to Pay over $165,000 for Preparing and Submitting Fraudulent Applications for Cares Act Financial AssistanceRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SIEDAH ELEY, age 31, a resident of Columbia, Maryland, was sentenced on October 25, 2023 to five (5) years of probation by United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle after previously pleading guilty to a one-count bill of information charging her with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1343. The charge stems from ELEY’S role in preparing and filing false applications for loans related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). ELEY was also ordered to pay $166,656 in restitution and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee .
According to court documents, ELEY used both word-of-mouth and text messages to solicit individuals interested in fraudulently obtaining money from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) program with her assistance. When a prospective applicant expressed interest, ELEY requested the applicant’s name, address, social security, and phone number, a copy of the front and back of the applicant’s driver’s license, a bank statement from 2020, and the routing and account number for the applicant’s bank account. ELEY then created a false and fraudulent loan application. ELEY falsely represented in the pertinent forms that the applicant had a sole proprietorship in the beauty industry that generated substantial income. ELEY also submitted false financial numbers overstating the gross receipts, expenses, and net income for the business. This resulted in the creation of a false federal tax Form 1040, Schedule C, that was accepted and processed by the online portal handling the application. In instances where the applicant actually received a small income from beauty industry work, ELEY knowingly and falsely inflated that income. Each of the above-described false representations constituted a misstatement that was material to the determination of the eligibility of the applicant and the loan amount the applicant would receive.
Once the loan was paid to the applicant, ELEY charged some applicants up to $5,000.00 for preparing and submitting the fraudulent PPP application. ELEY used this same scheme to file her own fraudulent application as well as the applications for at least seven (7) co-conspirators. This resulted in a loss to the Small Business Association of approximately $166,656.
For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, was in charge of the prosecution.
Maryland Resident Pleads Guilty to Preparing and Submitting Fraudulent Applications for Cares Act Financial AssistanceRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SHANIQUA PAGE WILSON, age 32, a resident of Odenton, Maryland, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1343. The charges stem from WILSON’S role in preparing and filing false applications for loans related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
According to court documents, between about April 19, 2021, and May 20, 2021, WILSON and (Co-Conspirator 1) recruited friends and family members, primarily via word of mouth and text message, to participate in a scheme whereby they would fraudulently obtain money from Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans with her assistance. WILSON and Co-Conspirator 1 then created and electronically submitted, loan applications. These loan applications falsely stated that the recruited applicant had a sole proprietorship in the beauty industry and generated substantial income from those businesses. Co-Conspirator 1 charged some applicants up to approximately $5,000.00 once the PPP loan was funded.
Between about May 4, 2021, and May 5, 2021, WILSON and Co-Conspirator 1 prepared and submitted approximately five (5) fraudulent PPP loan applications, including for themselves and their relatives, that resulted in a loss to the United States Small Business Administration and other designated financial institutions of approximately $104,160.
WILSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing before Judge Milazzo is scheduled for January 24, 2024.
For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.
Man who Tampered with a Witness Involved in his Federal Trial Sentenced to 150 Months’ in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who tampered with a witness involved in his federal trial was sentenced on October 25, 2023, to 150 months in federal prison.
Michael Lyn Ashford, age 43, from Chicago, Illinois, received the prison term after a jury found him guilty of conspiracy to tamper with a witness and tampering with a witness.
Evidence at the trial showed that Ashford, and his co-defendant, Jenise Colvin, spoke about their plan to contact the witness who had called 911 after a firearm was pointed at the witness while at a gas station in Dubuque. Ashford directed Colvin to contact the witness and told Colvin what to tell the witness. Colvin then called the witness and told the witness that they knew personal information about the witness, including the witness’s name and address. Ashford also called the witness while he was in custody and relayed similar information. In imposing its sentence, the district court found that Ashford pointed the firearm at the witness prompting the witness to call 911, tampered with the witness such that the witness did not want to testify at trial, and attempted to contact other potential witnesses in an attempt to obstruct justice.
Ashford was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Ashford was sentenced to 150 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Ashford is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
Jenise Colvin was previously sentenced to 30 months in federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Emily N. Nydle and Nicole L. Nagin, and it was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Dubuque Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 22-CR- 1037-01.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Man Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a Firearm After a High-Speed Pursuit with Iowa State Trooper in Stolen VehicleRead the Press Release
Ahmed Abdullahai Khalif, 23, from Owosso, Michigan, was sentenced on October 23, 2023, in federal court in Sioux City, Iowa, for illegally possessing a firearm.
Khalif pled guilty on March 30, 2023, to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Khalif was a user of marijuana and was previously convicted of Illegal Sale/Use of a Financial Transaction Device, a felony, in the Michigan District Court for Shiawassee County, on June 21, 2019. Both prohibit a person from possessing a firearm.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that on October 19, 2022, during a traffic stop, Khalif possessed a 9mm Taurus pistol and marijuana while being a felon. Prior to the traffic stop, an Iowa State Patrol trooper clocked the vehicle Khalif was driving on Interstate 35 in Franklin County, Iowa, in excess of 100 mph. After the trooper activated his emergency lights, Khalif led the trooper on a high-speed pursuit into Wright County, at times traveling toward oncoming traffic. Ultimately, Khalif intentionally rammed the trooper’s vehicle and fled on foot a short distance before being apprehended. The vehicle Khalif was driving came back as stolen out of Massachusetts. During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement found the 9mm Taurus pistol and marijuana. Khalif has an extensive criminal history involving thefts of motor vehicles.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Khalif was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment and must serve a three year term of supervised release following imprisonment. His sentence was reduced by one year and five days due to time served on related state convictions. There is no parole in the federal system. Khalif remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is 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.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa DCI, 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 22-3035. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Man Sentenced for Bringing Explosive Device into Bethlehem-Area ERRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Brian James Kunsman, 46, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was sentenced to 77 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl, for possession of an unregistered destructive device.
In October of 2021, the defendant possessed a ‘pipe bomb’ inside the emergency room at St. Luke’s University Hospital in the Fountain Hill section of the City of Bethlehem. An attending nurse discovered that Kunsman had brought the homemade destructive device in his backpack while he was a patient at the emergency room. Following the discovery, the emergency department of the hospital was evacuated for a four-hour period and all incoming trauma patients had to be diverted to other local hospitals.
"Homemade explosive devices are a dangerous threat in any circumstance; prompting an evacuation in an emergency department where patients are receiving acute medical care is unconscionable," said U.S. Attorney Romero. We are grateful to our law enforcement partners for working quickly and efficiently to ensure the safety of everyone impacted by Kunsman's actions."
“The defendant engaged in incredibly reckless behavior, endangering the lives of the hospital staff, patients, and first responders,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Eric DeGree. “We appreciate the support of the United States Attorney’s office and our state and local law enforcement partners throughout this investigation,”
The case was investigated by the Allentown Field Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Borough of Fountain Hill Police Department, the Allentown Bomb Squad, and the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly A. Lewis Fallenstein.
Man Convicted of $55M Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A federal jury in the Northern District of Texas convicted a medical marketer today for his role in a $55 million fraud conspiracy involving TRICARE, a federal program that provides health insurance benefits to active duty and retired service members and their families, and several other federal health care programs.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Quintan Cockerell, 42, of Palos Verdes Estates, California, worked with others to create and market expensive compounded medications, which are medications intended to be custom-tailored to individual patient needs. However, instead of custom-tailoring these medications, a local pharmacy designed formulations to maximize TRICARE and other federal health care program reimbursements regardless of patient need or medical efficacy. Pharmacy owners and others paid illegal kickbacks to individuals like Cockerell, who recruited area doctors to write prescriptions for these expensive compounded medications, including by creating so-called investment opportunities so that doctors who wrote prescriptions to the pharmacy could profit from the pharmacy operations. Cockerell then spent the proceeds of the scheme on expensive vacations, trips on private jets, and a yacht charter.
The jury convicted Cockerell of one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, one count of receiving unlawful kickbacks, and one count of money laundering. A sentencing date has not yet been set. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, five years in prison on the kickback count, and 10 years in prison on the money laundering count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge Michael Mentavlos of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Special Agent in Charge Jason Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) Dallas Regional Office, Special Agent in Charge Chad Yarbrough of the FBI Dallas Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Casey J. Howard of the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG) Central Regional Office, and Special Agent in Charge Kris Raper of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG) South Central Field Office made the announcement.
The DCIS, HHS-OIG, FBI, DOL-OIG, and VA-OIG investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Jacqueline DerOvanesian and Assistant Chief Kate Payerle of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case, with significant assistance from Assistant Chief Brynn Schiess and Trial Attorney Lee Hirsch.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, comprised of 15 strike forces operating in 25 federal districts, has charged more than 5,000 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $24 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Longtime Hoover Criminal Gang Member Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Racketeering Conspiracy, Murder in Aid of RacketeeringRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A longtime Hoover Criminal Gang member who for more than thirty years engaged in a violent pattern of criminal racketeering activity, including numerous acts of murder, robbery, and drug distribution, was sentenced today to life in federal prison.
Lorenzo Laron Jones, 50, a Portland resident, was sentenced to life in federal prison plus 10 years and five years’ supervised release.
“The Hoovers are a notorious violent criminal organization and Lorenzo Jones was among the gang’s most senior and violent members,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “This prosecution is an important milestone in our effort to combat gun violence in Portland and surrounding communities. We will continue working with our partners to investigate and prosecute violent gangs that disrupt the security and safety of our neighborhoods.”
“Lorenzo Jones was not only a leader of a violent street gang, he was also recruiting and grooming kids on the streets of Portland to carry out violent acts on behalf of this gang. He’s been referred to as a ‘shot caller’, but he’s actually a violent criminal who used guns and drugs to wreak havoc on our shared community,” said Kieran L. Ramsey, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. “Jones will now spend the rest of his life where he belongs, in federal prison. The FBI and our law enforcement partners are committed to disrupting and dismantling the most violent criminal organizations in Oregon to ensure a safer community.”
“For decades, the Portland Police Bureau has consistently worked to address the public safety threat posed by organized criminal gangs,” said Portland Chief of Police Bob Day. “This sentence will send a powerful message that organizations that engage in criminal violence will be held accountable. We are grateful for our partnerships with skilled investigators and federal prosecutors with whom we have collaborated to achieve this important sentence, and look forward to continuing this critical work toward making our community safer.”
“Through years of collaboration and multijurisdictional cooperation, a violent criminal is no longer in our community,” said Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “MCSO will continue investing in this important investigative work, so that crime victims and survivors get justice. Together with our partners, we are building safer and stronger communities.”
According to court documents, the Hoovers are a criminal street gang operating in Oregon known to engage in acts of violence including murder, robbery, and drug dealing. The Hoovers originated in Los Angeles in the late 1960s and established a presence in Portland in the early 1980s. The gang has a loose hierarchical structure in which members have different amounts of power and influence based on age and gang activity. To maintain status and increase one’s position in the gang, members are expected to carry out violence on behalf of the enterprise.
The Hoovers are rivals with many Portland gangs, including multiple Blood and Crip sets, and are self-described “everybody killers.” Hoover members are expected to use violence to retaliate any perceived slight or actual act of violence against a Hoover member or ally.
Jones is longtime member and self-proclaimed “shot caller” of the Hoovers who rose through the ranks of the criminal organization from baby gangster to gangster to original gangster. Multiple witnesses described Jones as a “big homie” who played a leadership role in the gang, mentoring younger members and recruits, and using them to conduct business and violence for the gang.
On November 7, 2019, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 13-count superseding indictment charging Jones; fellow senior Hoover gang member Ronald Clayton Rhodes, 38, also of Portland; and two accomplices with racketeering conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, using and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence and causing death using a firearm.
On October 19, 2022, a federal jury in Portland found Jones and Rhodes guilty on multiple counts including racketeering conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, and using and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence. During trial, the government proved beyond a reasonable doubt that Jones murdered Wilbert Butler on September 17, 2017, in Portland. Jones was also proven to have engaged in multiple attempted murders, illegally possessed firearms as a convicted felon, and distributed controlled substances throughout the Portland area.
On October 27, 2023, Rhodes will be sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Michael J. McShane. Like Jones, Rhodes faces a mandatory sentence of life in federal prison.
As part of the government’s ongoing investigation into the Hoover Criminal Gang’s racketeering activities, several other Hoover members and associates face pending federal charges or have been convicted and sentenced in federal court for crimes committed in support or on behalf of the gang’s criminal enterprise.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Portland Police Bureau, and Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Gresham Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Eugene Police Department, and Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
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.
This prosecution is the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the U.S. 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.
Leader of Elizabeth City Fentanyl Trafficking Ring Sentenced to More than 12 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – A leader of a drug trafficking organization based in Elizabeth City moving kilogram quantities of heroin and fentanyl in was sentenced today to 150 months in prison for his role as a major supplier of drugs in Eastern North Carolina. On July 26, 2023, Jamal Dance, age 31, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl analogue between 2019 and 2022.
“Fentanyl is wreaking havoc on communities and tearing apart families throughout Eastern North Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “This case exemplifies our unwavering dedication to thoroughly investigate and bring to justice the suppliers who are helping fuel this deadly epidemic.”
"Dance distributed dangerous drugs into his own community. Each brick of fentanyl he smuggled here, equaled 50 doses. When you do the math using the results of our investigation, it is astounding to think of the damage he did to so many people's lives," said Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina. "While we have taken this drug dealer off the streets, the FBI and our partners will continue working together to make our neighborhoods safe for everyone."
“I would like to thank all agencies and personnel involved in this case,” said Pasquotank County Sheriff Tommy Wooten. “I’m grateful for our working relationship to ensure the safety of our respected communities. I look forward to continuing the effort to keep this poison off the streets.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Pasquotank Sheriff’s Office and the Elizabeth City Police Department, in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, initiated an investigation in 2020 targeting a drug trafficking organization (DTO) engaged in the importation of heroin and fentanyl from New Jersey. Through surveillance, controlled buys and investigative interviews, Dance was identified as the leader of the DTO. The investigation also revealed Dance’s role in regularly acquiring 25,000 individual dosage units of fentanyl from his source in New Jersey and distributing them through his DTO in Elizabeth City and the surrounding area. On June 2, 2022, Dance was arrested in Chesapeake, VA after returning from securing supply in New Jersey. The search of his vehicle resulted in the discovery of over $14,000 in cash, and 10,000 individually packaged dosage units of fentanyl and fentanyl analogue, totaling approximately 150 grams. On the same date, a search warrant was executed at his residence in Elizabeth City, where officers seized a loaded .40 caliber handgun, a loaded AR rifle, various ammunitions, cash and marijuana.
This investigation was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, 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.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pasquotank, Dare and Camden County Sheriffs’ Offices, the Elizabeth City and Chesapeake (VA) Police Departments and the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Englander 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. 2:22-cr-00022-M.
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Justice Department Announces Additional $251.1 Million in Grant Awards and Highlights Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
The Justice Department joins survivors, victim service providers, advocates, and communities nationwide in recognizing October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). It is a time to center the experiences and leadership of survivors; honor those who have lost their lives to domestic violence; express gratitude to the countless individuals dedicated to preventing and addressing domestic violence and supporting survivors; and raise awareness on the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
Data from the most recent National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicate that about 41% of women and 26% of men experience contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner and report 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.
Between Sept. 19th and 28th, and through authorization under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded an additional 496 grants totaling $251,107,460 to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. The grants will reach communities across the United States, including Tribal nations, historically marginalized communities, underserved communities, college and university campuses, rural towns, and more. The funding prioritizes increasing access to justice, bolstering survivor safety, holding perpetrators accountable, and offering training and technical support to professionals addressing these crimes.
“Domestic violence is a pervasive and devastating crime that demands urgency and coordinated action at all levels of law enforcement,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As we recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Justice Department renews its commitment to building the capacity of our state, Tribal, and local partners to investigate and prosecute these crimes, pursue justice on behalf of survivors, and provide them with the support they need.”
“One of the central tenets of the Justice Department’s comprehensive strategy to reduce violent crime is that local communities know best what works in their neighborhoods,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “That is why we are dedicated to supporting communities by providing the tools they need to investigate and prosecute all forms of violence, including domestic violence. These grants will help survivors seek justice and hold offenders accountable.”
“The most effective response to domestic violence is one led by survivors and their advocates,” said Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta. “The grants announced today will help survivors access the resources and support they need, including from organizations familiar with their culture, language, and background, and will further the Justice Department’s goal of a national response to domestic violence that prioritizes survivors.”
“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.”
Awards include:
- State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program: 84 grants totaling $18,052,754 will 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.
- Improving Criminal Justice Responses to Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Grant Program: 37 grants totaling $21,538,000 will promote coordinated community responses among law enforcement agencies, courts, victim service providers, and other system partners.
- Grants to Enhance Culturally Specific Services for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Program (Culturally Specific Program): 53 awards totaling $25,024,327 will 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.
- Sexual Assault Services Culturally Specific Program (SAS Culturally Specific Program): 18 awards totaling $6,915,000 will support communities in establishing or expanding culturally appropriate services that address the needs of sexual assault survivors from culturally specific communities.
- Rural Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Assistance Program (Rural Program): 51 awards totaling $36,363,957 will support programs by local government, community-based organizations, and medical providers in rural areas to improve the safety of survivors.
- Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Program (Transitional Housing Program): 81 awards totaling $43,104,359 will support programs that provide six to 24 months of transitional housing or housing assistance to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
- Grants to Prevent and Respond to Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, and Sex Trafficking Against Children and Youth Program (Consolidated Youth Program): 20 grants totaling $9,561,203 will support community-based efforts to develop or expand prevention, intervention, treatment, and response programs for children and youth impacted by these crimes.
- Grants to Engage Men and Boys as Allies in the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls Program (Engaging Men and Boys Program): 10 grants totaling $3,395,000 will support educational programming and community-based organizations that encourage men and boys to work with allies with women and girls to prevent crimes.
- Grants to Reduce Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking on Campus Program (Campus Program): 40 grants totaling $15,634,184 will 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 12 grants totaling $5,994,296 under the new Strengthening Culturally Specific Campus’ Approaches to Address Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Initiative for grants supporting new programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs).
- Training and Technical Assistance Initiative: 58 grants totaling $40,605,000 will support training and technical assistance programs to enhance the efforts of grant recipients to implement projects supported by OVW funds successfully. In addition, OVW awarded 25 grants totaling $21,778,800 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.
- Research and Evaluation Initiative: Seven grants totaling $3,140,580 will support researcher-practitioner partnerships and a broad range of research and evaluation methods to generate more knowledge about effective strategies to combat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, and hold offenders accountable.
Organizations interested in applying for these and other grants are encouraged to visit the OVW website for more details and application guidelines.
Jury Finds District Man Guilty of Aggravated Assault and Related Firearms Offenses in July 2020 ShootingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Vincent James, 39, of Washington, D.C., was found guilty by a jury on felony assault charges, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Acting Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
James was found guilty of aggravated assault while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm (prior conviction) following a three-day trial in D.C. Superior Court. The Honorable Michael O’Keefe detained James pending sentencing scheduled for January 12, 2024.
On July 30, 2020, at approximately 2:00 a.m., James shot the complaining witness multiple times in the torso while in the parking lot of Spar Liquors, located at 3916 South Capitol Street, SE. The victim collapsed at a nearby bus stop before being transported to Washington Hospital Center where he was treated for multiple gunshot wounds. James was identified from surveillance footage from a nearby AutoZone where he made a purchase using his loyalty account earlier in the day.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Forgie and Ron Chester.
Jackson Man Sentenced to 21 Months in Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, on March 24, 2022, Shermaine Monteil Burse, 27, was found in possession of a firearm by FBI agents and Jackson Police officers after an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Burse was a passenger. A firearm was found at Burse’s feet on the floorboard. Burse has prior felony convictions out of Hinds County for possession of a stolen weapon and receiving stolen goods. As a convicted felon, Burse is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm.
Burse was indicted by a federal grand jury and subsequently pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jackson Police Department investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Terrill and Matt Allen prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Honduran Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Using Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that HENRY EDGARDO ORTIZ, age 44, plead guilty today to illegally using a social security number, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
According to court documents, ORTIZ applied to the Jefferson Parish Office of Motor Vehicles , for a Louisiana Identification Card. However, the Social Security Administration later confirmed that the identification card and its associated number, had been previously issued on May 4, 2018 in the name of another person in Puerto Rico, “ Individual A”.
Later, when ORTIZ, appeared at the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s office to handle another matter, he presented a Honduran passport in his real name. The District Attorney’s office became suspicious and contacted the Department of Homeland Security. As a result, the Department of Homeland Security located the Louisiana driver’s license paperwork, that showed the ORTIZ’s fraudulent use of a social security number.
ORTIZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to three years, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Hainze Díaz Arroyo, “La H,” Indicted for Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – A federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned an indictment charging Hainze Díaz Arroyo, also known in the music industry as “Hanzel la H”, with firearms violations. Díaz Arroyo was arrested on July 10 for violating his federal supervised release and has remained detained since his arrest.
According to court documents, Díaz Arroyo was charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, that is, a convicted felon. Specifically, it was alleged that on July 10, 2023, Díaz Arroyo, knowing he had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess a firearm. Díaz Arroyo possessed a Glock model 23 .40 caliber pistol, one 13-round capacity magazine, one 22-round capacity magazine, and 36 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition.
“Fighting gun violence remains a top priority for our office and the Justice Department and, as this case shows, we are steadfast in our commitment to prosecute those who violate federal firearms laws,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “We commend the special agents, Deputy U.S. Marshals, and prosecutors who continue working together to fight against violent crime in our communities.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Rebecca González-Ramos said: “To reduce the violence on our island, we need to focus on removing the firearms and the violent individuals from the streets; this is the second time in the last ten years that this individual has been arrested for firearm violations. As an agency, we will not tolerate violent individuals who believe they are above the law.”
United States Marshal for the District of Puerto Rico, Wilmer Ocasio-Ibarra said: “This significant arrest highlights the strategic coordination and collaboration of the United States Marshal Service and Homeland Security Investigations. Hainze Díaz Arroyo thought he would evade the authorities in Puerto Rico. The U.S. Marshals Service is committed to the safety of our community, we will never stop the search of violent fugitives who are trying to evade the law. As we have always pointed out, it is a matter of time before we knock on your door.”
If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Marshals are investigating the case, with the collaboration of the Puerto Rico Police Bureau.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa Zapata-Valladares, Deputy Chief of the Gang Unit, and AUSA Corinne Cordero-Romo are prosecuting the case.
To report suspicious activities related to the illegal movement of firearms, call HSI San Juan's 24/7 phone line at 787-729-6969.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Gainesville Man Sentenced to 60 Years in Federal Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Justin Harold Krumwiede, 42, of Gainesville, Florida, was sentenced to 60 years imprisonment for two counts of production of child pornography. The sentence was announced by Jason R. Coody, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
“There is no greater charge than the protection of our children,” said U.S. Attorney Coody. “This sentence is yet another example of the unwavering commitment to the protection of our most vulnerable and should serve as a significant deterrent to those who would attempt to harm them. We will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who engage in such heinous conduct.”
In March 2022, law enforcement officers in Gainesville, Florida commenced an investigation of alleged sexual abuse of a minor girl by Krumwiede. A search warrant was obtained for Krumwiede’s cell phones and computers. The devices were examined and found to contained hundreds of images of child pornography. Further investigation led to the identification of two different children whose sexual abuse had been filmed by Krumwiede in New Mexico in 2016 and Texas in 2017. The children had since become adults and were located and interviewed by law enforcement. They confirmed they had been the victim of sexual abuse by Krumwiede and identified themselves in the images that he had created.
“This significant sentence is a result of HSI’s relentless pursuit of those who choose to victimize children,” said HSI Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge K. Jim Phillips. "Law enforcement partnerships, like the one between HSI and the Gainesville Police Department, as well as our HSI partners in Waco and Pittsburg, are key to identifying and removing predators from our communities.”
“This successful prosecution is the result of the hard work and dedication of many law enforcement professionals from both state and federal agencies,” said North Florida ICAC Task Force Commander Chris King. “The safety of our children is a common priority and through unified effort this dangerous child predator was ultimately brought to justice.”
Krumwiede’s prison sentence will be followed by a Lifetime of supervised release. He will also 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.
Former Navy Civilian Employee Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit BriberyRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – October 26, 2023
SAN DIEGO – Dawnell Parker of Athens, Alabama, pleaded guilty in federal court today to bribery charges, admitting that while she was a public official at Naval Information Warfare Center in San Diego, she accepted thousands of dollars in free meals from defense contractors in exchange for helping them win and maintain millions of dollars in government contracts.
As part of the conspiracy, Parker received the free dinners at various restaurants, including Ruth’s Chris, De Medici Cucina and the University Club. In return, she took official action to aid her benefactors, like allowing defense contractors to draft government documents and submitting those documents as part of the procurement process and advocating for their selection as defense contractors.
According to Parker’s plea agreement, from approximately March 2016 through at least October 2019, she and a coworker received bribes from the president and CEO of a Fredericksburg, Virginia defense contractor. In return, Parker, acting under the direction of her coworker, used various methods to steer contracts to the contractor. Parker also admitted that she and the coworker separately received bribes from a different defense contractor, with offices in San Diego, California, and Stafford, Virginia, who also gave her things of value including expensive meals.
“Corruption in the defense procurement process wastes taxpayer dollars and undercuts public confidence in government,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “The contracting process must be reliable and honest to ensure our service members receive the best possible support.”
“Ms. Parker selfishly chose to enrich herself at the expense of the Department of the Navy by accepting bribes in exchange for steering contracts worth millions of dollars to certain companies,” said Special Agent in Charge Greg Gross of the NCIS Economic Crimes Field Office. “NCIS is dedicated to rooting out bribery and fraud that damage the integrity of the Department of the Navy procurement process and threaten warfighter readiness.”
“Ms. Parker’s guilty plea should act as a deterrent for individuals contemplating or attempting to misuse a position of public trust to subvert the integrity of the government’s acquisition process,” said Bryan D. Denny, Special Agent in Charge for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Western Field Office. “DCIS remains committed to working jointly with the United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to investigate and deter public corruption within the Department of Defense.”
“Bribery as a means to fraudulently access federal programs for personal gain will not be tolerated,” said SBA OIG’s Western Region Special Agent in Charge Weston King. “Our office will remain relentless in the pursuit of fraudsters who seek to exploit SBA’s vital economic programs. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to seeing justice served.”
“Ms. Parker’s actions directly undermined the fair competition that ensures our warfighters always have the technological advantage over potential adversaries,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office. “CI is committed to working with our fellow law enforcement agencies and will follow the money, wherever it may lead, to help protect our country.”
DEFENDANT Case Number 23cr2192-TWR
Dawnell Parker Age: 54 Athens, AL
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Commit Bribery - Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371
Maximum penalty: Five years in prison; $250,000 fine
AGENCIES
Defense Criminal Investigative Service
Naval Criminal Investigative Service
Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General
Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation
Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General
If you have information regarding fraud, waste, or abuse relating to Department of Defense personnel or operations, please contact the DoD Hotline at 800-424-9098.
Former Hamtramck Police Officer Pleads Guilty to BriberyRead the Press Release
DETROIT - A former police officer with the Hamtramck Police Department pleaded guilty today to taking bribes from a towing company operator, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced.
Ison was joined in the announcement by Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Michael Stout, 61, of St. Clair Shores, resigned from the Hamtramck Police Department in 2020.
But while he was working as a police officer there, Stout accepted bribes, including a vehicle and $1,500 in cash, from a towing company operator. In return, Stout provided information from the Michigan Law Enforcement Information Network (or LEIN), a restricted law enforcement database, to the towing company operator. For instance, when the towing company operator told Stout that he was worried that a police vehicle had been following him, Stout called an unwitting employee to search LEIN so Stout could provide the vehicle’s registration information to the towing company operator and thereby check whether it was a law enforcement vehicle.
Stout pleaded guilty to bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 666. This bribery charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. Stout is scheduled to be sentenced on February 29, 2024, at 1:30 pm before United States District Judge Matthew F. Leitman.
“The public needs the commitment of their police officers to uphold the rule of law, not to break it for their own financial gain. Today’s guilty plea underscores our commitment to ensure that officers who violate the public trust and accept bribes will answer for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Ison.
“Mr. Stout violated his oath to serve, and his misconduct was a betrayal of the trust placed upon him by the citizens of Hamtramck and his fellow officers,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “It is important to note that his actions do not represent the brave and exceptional work that our law enforcement officers perform daily. The FBI would like to thank Anne Moise, the Chief of Police in Hamtramck, for her department’s assistance throughout the investigation. The FBI is dedicated to holding corrupt police officers accountable and ensuring that the people of Michigan can have confidence in the integrity of law enforcement.”
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Detroit Area Corruption Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Cares.
Former Executive at Medicare Advantage Organization Charged for Multimillion-Dollar Medicare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Update: On June 13, 2025, defendant Kenia Valle Boza was found not guilty by a federal jury in the Southern District of Florida.
The Justice Department today announced charges against a former executive at HealthSun Health Plans Inc. (HealthSun), a Medicare Advantage organization that operates Medicare Advantage plans in South Florida, for her role in a multimillion-dollar Medicare fraud scheme.
In addition, the Justice Department announced that it has declined prosecution of HealthSun after considering the factors set forth in the department’s Principles of Federal Prosecution of Business Organizations and the Criminal Division’s Corporate Enforcement and Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy, including HealthSun’s prompt voluntary self-disclosure, cooperation, and remediation, as well as HealthSun’s agreement to repay the Department of Health and Human Services’ Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approximately $53 million in overpayments.
According to court documents, Kenia Valle Boza, 39, of Miami, formerly the Director of Medicare Risk Adjustment Analytics at HealthSun, allegedly orchestrated a scheme to submit false and fraudulent information to CMS to increase the amount that HealthSun received for certain Medicare Advantage enrollees. CMS pays Medicare Advantage plans like those HealthSun operates based, in part, on the health condition of their enrollees. To increase the company’s profits and their own compensation, Valle and her co-conspirators are alleged to have knowingly submitted and caused the submission to CMS of false and fraudulent information about chronic ailments that Medicare beneficiaries in HealthSun’s plans did not actually have, and that non-health care providers, such as coders, added to patient health records.
For example, Valle and her co-conspirators allegedly entered and caused others to enter diagnoses into the medical records of beneficiaries enrolled in HealthSun’s plans based on diagnostic tests that were not a proper basis for diagnosing those conditions. In addition, Valle and her co-conspirators allegedly obtained the login credentials assigned to certain physicians to wrongfully access electronic medical records (EMR) as the physicians, and falsely and fraudulently entered chronic conditions directly into the medical records of beneficiaries. These diagnoses appeared to have been made and documented by the physicians when, in truth and fact, coders entered the conditions into beneficiaries’ medical records, often days or weeks after the physician saw the beneficiary. As a result of the scheme, Valle and her co-conspirators allegedly caused HealthSun to submit to CMS tens of thousands of false and fraudulent diagnosis codes, which resulted in CMS overpaying HealthSun millions of dollars.
Valle is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, two counts of wire fraud, and three counts of major fraud against the United States. If convicted, Valle faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the conspiracy count and on each wire fraud count, and a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on each count of major fraud against the United States.
Acting Senior Counselor Brent Wible of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), and Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement.
HHS-OIG and the FBI Miami Field Office are investigating the case.
Assistant Chief John “Fritz” Scanlon and Trial Attorney Alexander Thor Pogozelski of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
IndictmentFive Sentenced to Domestic Violence Charges During Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
October marks the observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson announced that five individuals were sentenced this week in federal court to domestic violence charges.
Justin Samuel Barzellone, 43, of Tulsa, plead guilty on June 3, 2022, to assault of an intimate/dating partner by strangling and suffocating in Indian Country. U.S. District Judge Raul M. Arias-Marxuach sentenced Barzellone to 37 months followed by 3 years of supervised release. In his plea agreement, Barzellone stated that he was arguing with his fiancé and placed his arm around her neck and squeezed to prevent her from breathing. He further stated that he hit her several times and slammed her head against a sliding glass door. Barzellone is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Buscemi prosecuted the case.
Patrick Ethan Brashers, 42, of Chelsea, plead guilty on June 9, 2022, to one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country, and one count of assault by striking, beating, and wounding. U.S. District Judge Raul M. Arias-Marxuach sentenced Brashers to 20 months followed by 3 years of supervised release. In his plea agreement Brashers, admitted to stomping and breaking the kneecap of his victim in front of their child. In a separate incident, Brashers admittingly pushed down his victim in front of their children and put his foot on her back, pushing her down again. Brashers is a member of the Cherokee Nation. The FBI, Rogers County Sheriff’s Office, and Chelsea Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Buscemi and Julie Childress prosecuted the case.
Bryant Sosa Chavez-Danillo, 24, of Tulsa, plead guilty on July 15, 2022, to assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm in Indian Country. U.S. District Judge Raul M. Arias-Marxuach sentenced Chavez-Danillo to 36 months followed by 3 years of supervised release. In his plea agreement, Chavez-Danillo stated that he was arguing with the victim in a vehicle. The victim attempted to leave the vehicle and he wrapped his arm around her neck and pulled her back into the vehicle. He further stated that he stabbed the victim in the abdomen. The victim is a member of Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shakema Onias, Michael Harder, and Julie Childress prosecuted the case.
Jared Wayne Williams, 34, of Sand Springs, plead guilty on September 14, 2022, to two counts of aggravated sexual abuse by force and threat in Indian County and two counts of child neglect in Indian Country. U.S. District Judge John F. Heil sentenced Williams to 180 months. Following his release from prison, Williams is required to register as a sex offender and will be subject to lifetime supervision. Judge Heil further ordered Williams to pay $1,863.44 in restitution. In his plea agreement, Williams admitted that on 2 separate occasions he sexually assaulted the mother of his children. He further stated that other physical and sexual assaults took place in front of minor children. Williams is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The FBI, Bixby Police Department, and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys George Jiang and Stacey Todd prosecuted the case.
Samuel Aaronson Ragster, 31, of Tulsa, plead guilty on July 15, 2022, to one count of assault of an intimate/dating partner by strangling and suffocating in Indian Country, and one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country. U.S. District Judge Raul M. Arias-Marxuach sentenced Ragster to 78 months followed by 3 years of supervised release. In court documents, Ragster admitted that he grabbed his victim by her throat and slammed her into a bookcase. She suffered significant puncture wounds in her back which required surgical staples to close. He then threw her on the bed and strangled her. The victim is a member of the Cherokee Nation. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Briden prosecuted the case.
Every October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) renews our commitment to addressing and preventing domestic violence. Domestic violence, dating violence, and intimate partner violence can have long-lasting impacts and consequences. Approximately one in four women and one in seven men will experience severe domestic violence in their lifetimes; however, rates are disproportionately higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, women of Color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and two-spirit people, and people with disabilities. DVAM provides an opportunity to spread awareness about domestic violence and encourage everyone to play a role in ending gender-based violence.“Domestic violence affects us all personally in some way,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “And we who serve as federal prosecutors for the Northern District of Oklahoma have a duty to use all the tools at our disposal—and leverage our partnerships with local law enforcement and prosecutors—to ensure victims have a viable path to safety and justice.”
As part of its monthlong observance of DVAM, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Northern District of Oklahoma is proud to announce that the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded $1,125,000 to the Northern District to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.
- OVW awarded $575,000 to the City of Tulsa 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.
- OVW awarded $550,000 to Domestic Violence Intervention Services, Inc. (DVIS) 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.
U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson joins the U.S. Department of Justice in commemorating DVAM, paying tribute to victims and survivors, and saluting the dedication of advocates, service providers, justice professionals, law enforcement officers, and first responders who tirelessly work in support of survivors.
Facing domestic violence? Find support in your state through @OVWJustice's Local Resources: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/local-resources.
- OVW awarded $575,000 to the City of Tulsa 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.
Federal Jury Finds Hartford Man Guilty of Gun OffenseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal jury in Hartford has found DENROY FABLE, 40, of Hartford, guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. The trial before U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams began on October 23 and the jury returned its verdict this afternoon.
According to the evidence presented during the trial, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and Hartford Police Department conducted an investigation of a business located at 136 Barbour Street in Hartford that was suspected of trafficking narcotics. The business, a purported clothing store, had an awning that read “The HOLE Ex-Con 360 the movement.” In October 2022, investigators made two controlled drug purchases of marijuana from the store.
On October 5, 2022, Fable and others were in the store when investigators conducted a court-authorized search of the store and seized quantities of suspected crack cocaine, psychedelic mushrooms, cocaine, marijuana, heroin, synthetic opioid pills, fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodone, MDMA, drug packaging and processing materials, U.S. currency, and five handguns. One of the handguns seized, a loaded .380 semiautomatic pistol, was found in a pocket of Fable’s jacket that was hanging on a shelf. Subsequent forensic testing of the firearm revealed the presence of Fable’s DNA.
Fable’s criminal history in state convictions for criminal possession of a firearm, and carrying a pistol without a permit, and federal convictions for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and crack. In March 2019, Fable was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 37 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release. He was released from prison in August 2020, and was on supervised release when he possessed the firearm in October 2022.
At sentencing, which is not scheduled, Fable faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years. He also faces additional penalties for violating the conditions of his supervised release.
Fable has been detained since October 5, 2022.
This investigation has been conducted by the DEA’s Hartford Task Force and the Hartford Police Department, with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory. The DEA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, Windsor Locks and Willimantic Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys A. Reed Durham and Brendan J. Keefe.
Federal Jury Convicts Fort Towson Resident of MurderRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Thomas Raymond Phillips, III, age 36, of Fort Towson, Oklahoma, was found guilty by a federal jury of one count of First Degree Murder in Indian Country, one count of Use, Carry, Brandish, and Discharge of a Firearm During and In Relation to a Crime of Violence, and one count of Causing the Death of a Person in the Course of a Violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 924(c).
The jury trial began with testimony on October 23, 2023, and concluded on October 25, 2023, with the guilty verdicts.
During the trial, the United States presented evidence that on the evening of December 19, 2020, Phillips fired multiple shots into a Fort Towson bar after being ejected by management for instigating a fight. One bullet struck a patron, killing the victim on the scene. The crime occurred in Choctaw County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The guilty verdicts were the result of an investigation by the Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable John F. Heil, U.S. District in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the trial in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and ordered the completion of a presentence report. The sentencing will be scheduled following completion of the report. The defendant will remain in custody of the United States Marshal until sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Dean Burris and Cameron McEwen represented the United States.
Farmington Hills Psychotherapy Clinic Owner Sentenced for Health Care Fraud Conspiracy ChargesRead the Press Release
DETROIT - A Farmington Hills clinic owner was sentenced to 7 years and 6 months in federal prison after having pleaded guilty to health care fraud and money laundering charges, announced United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison.
Joining Ison in the announcement were Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan, and Mario Pinto, Special Agent-In-Charge, United States Department of Health, and Human Services – Office of Inspector General.
Sentenced was Mohamed Kazkaz, 54. Kazkaz was sentenced before United States District Judge Gershwin A. Drain in Detroit. Kazkaz was also ordered to forfeit approximately $5.3 million as the gross proceeds of his unlawful conduct.
During his plea, Kazkaz admitted he owned and controlled Centre HRW, a purported psychotherapy agency in Farmington Hills, Michigan for the purpose of submitting false and fraudulent claims to Medicare, seeking reimbursement for psychotherapy services that were not provided or were otherwise not eligible for reimbursement and whose Medicare identification numbers were procured through kickbacks and bribes.
Kazkaz offered and provided kickbacks and bribes to Ziad Khalel, and others, as an inducement to refer Medicare beneficiaries to Centre for psychotherapy services, even though such services were medically unnecessary and were never rendered. Khalel would require the recruited Medicare beneficiaries to sign blank Centre sign-in sheets. Kazkaz and others, completed the sheets as if the patients had been provided psychotherapy services and relied upon them to support his fraudulent claims to Medicare, through Centre, for psychotherapy services that were never rendered.
In furtherance of the scheme, Kazkaz instructed employees to obtain information regarding the Medicare beneficiaries legitimate medical visits and or treatments to ensure Kazkaz did not submit a fraudulent claim for a psychotherapy appointment on the same date the beneficiary had a legitimate appointment with another medical provider.
Kazkaz admitted he submitted or caused the submission of approximately $11 million dollars in fraudulent claims to Medicare, and Medicare paid approximately $5.3 million dollars to Kazkaz as a result of the fraudulent submissions.
In furtherance of the conspiracy, Kazkaz would transfer the proceeds of the health care fraud scheme to various entities in an effort to conceal the proceeds. Specifically, on January 21, 2023, after his arraignment in this case, he transferred approximately $1,445,000 in a cashier’s check issued by a financial institution located in the Eastern District of Michigan to National Restaurant Chain #1 knowing the source of these funds was criminal proceeds from the health care fraud scheme.
“The actions of this defendant undermine the trust we place in our health care providers,” said United States Attorney Ison. “We hope this prosecution sends a message that we will aggressively seek to hold individuals accountable who steal from federally funded programs, such as Medicare, which are meant to help those in need.”
“Medical providers and others who unlawfully benefit from the payment of kickbacks in exchange for patient referrals, as well as bill our federal health care programs for medically unnecessary and non-rendered services, waste valuable taxpayer dollars and erode the trust that we place in these individuals,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify and investigate those who defraud our federal health care system.”
"Whenever the integrity of our health care programs is compromised, it erodes the trust that patients place in providers and puts everyone at risk,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, the Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. "Health care fraud is not a victimless crime. Whenever false claims are submitted to our federal health care programs, everyone bears the cost through potentially higher insurance premiums, out-of-pocket expenses, and even reduced or lost benefits. The FBI remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who attempt to personally profit through these false claims and money laundering schemes are held accountable.”
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Regina R. McCullough and Philip A. Ross. Assistant United States Attorney K. Craig Welkener, of the Money Laundering & Asset Recovery Unit is handling related forfeiture matters. The investigation is being conducted jointly by the FBI and HHS-OIG.
Essex County Man Sentenced to 330 Months in Prison for Gunpoint Robbery of East Orange Cell Phone StoreRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, man was sentenced to 330 months in prison for his role in a January 2021 gunpoint robbery of a cell phone store in East Orange, New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Kenneth Graham, 50, of Newark, was convicted of one count of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Graham was convicted following a one-week trial before Senior U.S. District Court Judge William J. Martini, who imposed the sentence on Oct. 25, 2023, in Newark federal court.
According to court documents and the evidence presented at trial:
On Jan. 18, 2021, Graham was in the cell phone store when he pulled out a gun and pointed it at a store employee. He ordered the employee to place several cell phones from the display case and cash from the register into a bag. Video surveillance footage near the store showed Graham enter a black Nissan Altima after the robbery and drive away. A witness confirmed that Graham was the person entering the Nissan Altima after robbing the store.
Historical cell phone records indicate that Graham’s cellular telephone was in East Orange near the store around the time of the robbery, and photographs on Graham’s cell phone showed Graham wearing a sweatshirt with a distinct logo. In the video surveillance footage from the robbery, Graham wore that same sweatshirt.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Martini sentenced Graham to five years of supervised release and ordered him to pay restitution of $2,773.
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, and members of the East Orange Police Department, under the direction of Chief Phyllis Bindi, with the investigation leading to the sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Levin and Jennifer S. Kozar of the Criminal Division in Newark.
Essex County Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Wire Fraud in Connection with Romance ScamRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, man was sentenced to 27 months in prison for conspiring to commit wire fraud and wire fraud in connection with an online romance scam, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Mahmoud Bowler, 40, of Newark, was convicted on April 13, 2023, of one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and four counts of wire fraud following a four-day trial before U.S. Circuit Court Judge Joseph A. Greenaway Jr., sitting by designation to hold a District Court trial within the Circuit. U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti imposed the sentence on Oct. 24, 2023, in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and the evidence presented at trial:
From February 2015 through June 2019, Bowler and a conspirator participated in an online romance scheme. Bowler’s conspirator created a fraudulent profile on an online dating site and then pretended to strike up a romantic relationship with a woman living in Florida. In the online profile, Bowler’s conspirator falsely represented that he, and a company he owned, had been awarded multimillion-dollar oil contract. After establishing a virtual romantic relationship with the victim, the conspirator repeatedly solicited alleged loans from the victim, claiming that he could not access his own accounts because a foreign government had frozen his assets.
From April 2018 to September 2018, the victim was directed to wire money to Bowler’s bank account on four separate occasions. After receiving the funds, Bowler withdrew a portion of the funds in cash, sent money to other individuals in Ghana through a money remitter, and wired some of the money to family members in Ghana.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Martinotti sentenced Bowler to three years of supervised release and ordered restitution of $44,821.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, Newark Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy; detectives from the New York City Police Department Intelligence and Counterterrorism Unit, under the direction of Chief Thomas Galati; detectives from the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens; and detectives from the Port Authority Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent of Police, Edward Cetnar, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas S. Kearney of the Special Prosecutions Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Dong Joo Lee of the Criminal Division.
Eastern Shore Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Stealing More Than $1.8 Million from a Salisbury CorporationRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Deborah K. Chasanow sentenced Duane G. Larmore, age 48, of Salisbury, Maryland, yesterday to 30 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for a wire fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft in connection with the theft of more than $1.8 million from Shore Appliance Connection, where Larmore worked. Judge Chasanow also ordered Larmore to pay restitution in the full amount of the victims’ losses, which the parties stipulate is $1,850,488.94.
The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron and Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Sobocinski of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office.
According to his plea agreement, from mid-September 2016 through about March 2020, Larmore conspired with others to steal more than $1.8 million from a Salisbury, Maryland company, Shore Appliance Connection, owned and operated by Owner #1 and Owner #2, that sold household appliances as well as mattresses and bedding. Larmore was an employee at Shore Appliance whose duties included maintaining the books and records for the company.
Co-defendant Stephen Franklin was the chief operating officer of Accurate Optical, a chain of optometric shops on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and with the owners of Accurate Optical he also purchased East Coast Optometric, a chain of South Carolina optical shops. Larmore and Franklin met through the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce and became friendly.
According to court documents, Larmore and Franklin stole nearly $2 million from Shore Appliance to use for their own purposes, including to make investments and to pay business expenses for Franklin’s business, without the knowledge and consent of the owners of Shore Appliance. For example, at the urging of Franklin, Larmore invested in the following: in 2016, a $100,000 investment with T.H.; a $95,000 investment with GenFinance II, PLC, London, U.K., which then required an additional $300,000, and then additional funds for a surety bond and travel abroad; in 2018, an investment through W.S. of $35,000 and an investment of $50,000 through Gateway Capital; and in 2019 - 2020, investments and expenses through I.P. and E.P.S. to obtain U.S. currency purportedly returned to the United States from humanitarian relief projects abroad, and other similar investments. The charges included wire transfers from Shore Appliance’s account to Franklin’s business account and from there to banks in the U.K. and Hong Kong. No investment paid any return to Larmore or Franklin.
To conceal how much money had been removed from Shore Appliance and to obtain cash, Larmore used the identities of the owners to enter into factoring contracts. Factoring is a means by which businesses, like Shore Appliance, can obtain cash quickly by leveraging accounts receivable. As detailed in court documents, the factoring contracts purportedly between Shore Appliance and various factoring companies, provided cash deposits to Shore Appliance's bank accounts but encumbered the accounts receivable of Shore Appliance and required payments and interest of more than $725,000. In addition, Larmore used his position of trust with Shore Appliance and signature authority over its bank accounts to draw on Shore Appliance’s lines of credit with two separate financial institutions to obtain another $200,000 in cash to conceal his use of Shore Appliance’s funds.
To obtain contracts with factoring companies for Shore Appliance, Larmore used his own email address and cell phone number with factors but identified that email address and cell phone number as belonging to Owner #1. Larmore also provided the factors with details of the owners’ identities, including dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and Maryland drivers’ licenses, without their permission.
To conceal the fact that the owners were not aware of and had not approved the factoring contracts, the signatures of the owners were forged and the fraudulent signatures were witnessed or notarized by Franklin; and Larmore and a female employee of Franklin’s posed as the owners in telephone conversations with representatives of the factoring companies. Finally, when Franklin’s business was having financial difficulties, at Franklin’s request, Larmore provided funds from Shore Appliance for Franklin’s companies.
In all, Larmore paid $739,295.28 of Shore Appliance’s funds, without the officers and owners’ knowledge or consent, to invest in fraudulent schemes that never paid any money back. Larmore caused an additional loss of $171,548.67 by transferring funds to Franklin or Franklin’s companies. Larmore caused Shore Appliance to lose an additional $731,250.07 in fees and other payments to factors and to factoring brokers. Larmore also caused Shore Appliance to draw on its bank lines of credit and pay extra interest to those banks in the amount $208,395. Thus, the factoring arrangements and advances on Shore Appliance’s lines of credit in total caused Shore Appliance to lose in actual funds $939,645. However, Shore Appliance as of March 2020 still owed the factors almost $270,000. For all of Larmore’s conduct, actual cash losses to Shore Appliance totaled $1,850,488.94 and intended losses totaled $2,137,674.74.
On September 7, 2023, Judge Chasanow sentenced Stephen Franklin, age 54, of Salisbury, Maryland, to 66 months in federal prison on the same charges and also ordered him to pay restitution in the full amount of the victims’ losses.
United States Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the FBI for its work in the investigation. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Evelyn Lombardo Cusson, who prosecuted the case.
For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach. For more information about resources available to report fraud, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/report-fraud.
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District Man Pleads Guilty to Series of Armed Robberies of Businesses in the Adams Morgan NeighborhoodRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Tarik Laghrib, 44, of Northwest Washington D.C., pleaded guilty today to multiple violent crime offenses arising from a series of armed and unarmed robberies and burglaries that targeted small businesses in the District’s Adams Morgan neighborhood in January and February of 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Acting Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
According to court documents, MPD officers arrested Laghrib in the early hours of Feb. 19, 2023, hours after he assaulted and robbed a clerk at Metro Wine & Spirits on the 1700 block of Columbia Rd. Police tracked Laghrib to a nearby apartment building. Officers apprehended Laghrib when he later emerged with a bottle of stolen liquor. Police had been investigating several other burglaries and robberies in the community that had begun in January 2023. As a result of the investigation, police and prosecutors linked Laghrib to that crime spree, which ended with Laghrib’s arrest and pre-trial detention.
As part of his plea agreement, Laghrib admitted in D.C. Superior Court to the armed robbery of the liquor store and also admitted to an assault and second-degree theft at the Chocolate House on 18th Street on Feb. 2, 2023. In addition, he admitted that he returned to the Chocolate House the next day and robbed its owner. Minutes after that robbery, Laghrib proceeded to the Cosmo Nail Bar where he committed another robbery.
Superior Court Judge Jason Park scheduled sentencing for Jan. 12, 2024. Laghrib faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a fine of $75,000 for the armed robbery count, and an additional 15 years in prison and $37,500 fine for each of the additional robbery counts.
This case was investigated by the MPD’s Third District Detectives Unit and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wes Faulkner, Jr. and Joshua Hall.
Disbarred attorney arrested on charges related to using false identity to obtain jobs at law firmsRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – A disbarred attorney who previously practiced law in the Cincinnati area was arrested today by federal agents for allegedly using a false identity to obtain employment with at least three law firms.
Richard Louis Crosby III, 36, of Mason, Ohio, is charged by criminal complaint with wire fraud, Social Security number fraud and aggravated identity theft.
According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, the Cincinnati Bar Association filed a complaint against Crosby in November 2020. In April 2021, he indicated his intent to resign from the practice of law.
In both June and November 2021, Crosby was indicted and charged in Hamilton County with crimes related to stealing client funds. After his indictments, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio entered an order disbarring Crosby.
In May 2022, Crosby was arrested in both of his Hamilton County cases. He was sentenced to probation in both cases in June 2023.
According to the federal charging document filed on Oct. 24, while Crosby’s local cases were pending, he created an email account using “richardcwilliamsesq.” Crosby used the email address and the alias Richard Williams to communicate with a law firm in Washington D.C. in June 2021. The firm briefly employed Williams.
In September 2022 – at which point Crosby had been disbarred in Ohio and arrested on the Hamilton County charges – Crosby used his alias to apply for an attorney position with a law firm based in Miami, Florida. Crosby met with a recruiter via Zoom, and represented himself as Richard Williams, a licensed attorney admitted to the bar in New York and D.C.
It is alleged Crosby then met with one of the firm’s hiring managers in Florida and was ultimately offered employment in October 2022. His starting salary was $185,000 per year with a $5,000 signing bonus. Crosby allegedly used another individual’s Social Security number, passport number and banking information to complete his onboarding paperwork at the law firm.
In April 2023, the firm received an inquiry from an investigator with the Clermont County Child Support Enforcement Office, making the firm aware of Crosby’s true identity. He was subsequently fired.
In July 2023, Crosby again used the alias to attempt to obtain employment. He allegedly interviewed over Zoom with senior management of a law firm located in Coral Gables, Florida. It is alleged that Crosby doctored a “screen shot” of the name Richard Coleman Williams Jr. in the online D.C. bar membership directory to attach with his resume.
The firm offered Crosby a starting salary of $195,000 per year with a $10,000 signing bonus, but eventually determined Crosby was using a false identity and did not hire him.
Crosby was arrested this morning in Mason and will make his initial appearance in federal court in Cincinnati at 1:30pm.
Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio announced the charges. The case is being investigated by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, with assistance from the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office, Clermont County Department of Job and Family Services, United States Marshals Service, and Diplomatic Security Service. Special Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Landry is representing the United States in this case.
A criminal complaint merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
If you have information related to this alleged conduct, please contact the Social Security OIG tip line at 1-800-269-0271.
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Diamond Bar Man Pleads Guilty to a Civil Rights Charge for Driving His Car into a Crowd of Demonstrators at a ‘Stop Asian Hate’ RallyRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Diamond Bar man pled guilty today to a federal criminal civil rights charge for disrupting a “Stop Asian Hate” rally in March 2021 by running a red light and driving through a crowded crosswalk of peaceful demonstrators while shouting racial slurs and epithets.
On the third day of trial, Steve Lee Dominguez, 57, pleaded guilty to one felony count of bias-motivated interference with federally protected activities.
“The right to political expression is a bedrock principle of this nation,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Mr. Dominguez’s decision to attack a peaceful rally meant to raise awareness of anti-Asian hate was both unlawful and un-American. My Office will remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguard civil rights against those who would seek to undermine our constitutional rights.”
“The FBI safeguards the civil rights of all Americans, including the constitutionally protected right of free speech, but that right ends where violence begins,” said Donald Alway, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “We will continue to work with our partners to address these types of violations, where individuals who were simply calling for an end to violence were senselessly attacked.”
“Hate has no place within Los Angeles County, and those that commit acts of hate and interfere with the civil rights of others will be held accountable,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna. “The Sheriff’s Department is focused on combatting hate crimes and hate incidents in our diverse communities and increasing our outreach efforts to better understand the needs of the victims and educate the public on how to report such crimes.”
According to a plea agreement filed in federal court, a “Stop Asian Hate” rally occurred on March 21, 2021 in Diamond Bar. The rally was to raise awareness about the increase in hate crimes and hate incidents against members of the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community both locally and nationally – including the murders of six Asian American women five days earlier in Atlanta.
A group of rally participants assembled at the intersection of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue, carrying American flags and large signs in support of their cause. The demonstrators peacefully gathered and lawfully crossed the streets using the marked pedestrian crosswalk when they had the right of way.
During the rally, Dominguez was driving a black Honda Civic sedan and was stopped at a red light at the intersection. Dominguez yelled, “Go back to China!” and other racial slurs and profanities at the demonstrators. He then deliberately drove his car through the intersection’s crosswalk at the red light, made an illegal U-turn into oncoming traffic, and cut off the route of several rally participants lawfully crossing the street, primarily women and a young child.
One of the victims was an Asian woman carrying a sign that read, “Stop Asian Hate.” Another victim was a minor Black female rally participant who carried a sign that read, “End the Violence Against Asians.” Another person who was cut off in the crosswalk was a 9-year-old child, and Dominguez’s car narrowly missed her and other victims. No injuries were reported.
Dominguez then pulled his car over, got out of the car and continued to yell racial epithets – including the n-word – and threats at the demonstrators. He then called the police, identified himself as “John Doe” and falsely reported to police that the rally participants were blocking the street and he had to run a red light “because they were about to trample my car,” according to evidence presented at trial. He also requested that police “get some control out” at the intersection.
United States District Judge Otis D. Wright II scheduled a May 6, 2024 sentencing hearing, at which time Dominguez will face up to one year in prison pursuant to the terms of the plea agreement. Dominguez has remained free on a $30,000 bond since his initial arrest in May 2022 and will remain on bond until sentencing.
The FBI investigated this matter. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department initially responded to the scene and assisted in this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Frances S. Lewis of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section and Suria M. Bahadue of the Criminal Appeals Section are prosecuting this case.
Any member of the public who has information related to this incident or other hate crimes is encouraged to call the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office at (310) 477-6565 or report tips online at https://tips.fbi.gov.
Detroit Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Prison for Three Violent CarjackingsRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A Detroit man was sentenced today to 9 years in federal prison following his convictions for two attempted carjackings and one completed carjacking— including one where he fired an assault rifle at a teenager.
United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced the sentencing today and was joined in the announcement Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
According to court records, Gregory Horsley, 20, of Detroit, Michigan, committed the carjackings on May 14, 2021, in Beverly Hills, Michigan. During each offense, Horsley targeted strangers who were inside their vehicles near the intersection of Thirteen Mile Road and Evergreen. In the first carjacking, Horsley approached the 16-year-old victim as he was seated in his car. Horsley pulled out a loaded assault rifle and pointed it at the driver. As the teenager drove off, Horsley fired his weapon, striking the vehicle.
Horsley next approached a vehicle driven by a woman. Horsley brandished his firearm and ordered her out of the car. The victim fled the driver’s seat and Horsley entered her car. But he could not drive away because the victim had the key fob in her pocket.
Horsley exited that vehicle and approached a third driver. Horsley pointed his firearm at the male driver and ordered him out of the car. The driver complied. Horsley then took the keys and drove off in the car. The carjacked vehicle was found a few days later. Horsley was identified by surveillance video and taken into custody at his home in Detroit.
“Those who seek to prey on motorists going about their business will continue to have our full attention, and we will not hesitate to pursue federal prosecution and significant penalties at our disposal,” stated U.S. Attorney Ison.
“The FBI is committed to leveraging its assets in collaboration with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe from gun violence,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “We are proud of the cooperative work done by the FBI Oakland County Gang and Violent Crime Task Force. Michigan residents deserve to live in a state free from violent crime – we continue to request the public’s assistance to help us in this mission by reporting any suspicious or violent behavior to 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324) or submitting tips online to http://tips.fbi.gov.”
The case was investigated by special agents of the FBI, the Beverly Hills Police Department, the Southfield Police Department, the Detroit Police Department, and handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeanine Brunson and Michael Taylor.
Detroit Man Pleads Guilty to Violating Coast Guard Order to Cease Illegal Charter OperationsRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A Detroit man pleaded guilty yesterday to a felony charge of willfully and knowingly violating the terms of a United States Coast Guard Order to cease all commercial operation of his pleasure boat until properly licensed and inspected, announced United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison.
Ison was joined in the announcement by United States Coast Guard Captain Richard P. Armstrong, Captain of the Port, Detroit, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Josh Packer of the Coast Guard Investigative Service Central Field Office.
Benjamin Michael Jones, 39, entered his guilty plea this afternoon, before United States District Judge Judith E. Levy.
According to court records, in June of 2021, the Coast Guard issued a Captain of the Port Order to Jones, ordering him to cease all commercial operations until fully compliant with the applicable laws and regulations for carrying passengers for hire. On or about August 10, 2021, Jones willfully and knowingly violated the terms of that Order by operating his 40’ boat, known as “PWR TOWER,” on Lake St. Clair, while carrying passengers for hire, and without having complied with the applicable Coast Guard licensing regulations and inspection requirements. During that illegal voyage, the “PWR TOWER” caught fire with its passengers on board. Jones’s passengers were rescued, and the “PWR TOWER” was towed to shore by the Coast Guard.
“The maritime laws and regulations are designed to ensure that the commercial operation of vessels on the waters of the United States is conducted safely. My office will continue to prosecute people like Jones, who knowingly and willfully violate the maritime laws and regulations and endanger the safety of others,” U.S. Attorney Ison said.
"The guilty plea in this incident highlights the Coast Guard’s unwavering dedication to maintaining maritime safety and cracking down on illegal charter operations,” said United States Coast Guard Captain Richard P. Armstrong, Captain of the Port, Detroit. “Every action we take is aimed at safeguarding the boating public from potential hazards. This case serves as a resounding reminder that we will continue to uphold maritime laws, ensuring that our waterways remain safe and enjoyable for all.”
“Mr. Jones’ repeated actions demonstrated blatant disregard for the Coast Guard’s policies and authority, which placed unsuspecting passengers at risk. This guilty plea demonstrates the aggressive posture the Coast Guard Investigative Service and U.S. Attorney’s Office have taken in the prosecution of illegal charter operations,” said Josh Packer, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Coast Guard Investigative Service, Central Field Office.
The sentencing hearing is set for February 27, 2024 at 2:30pm, at which Jones faces a statutory maximum penalty of 6 years imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Investigative Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy J. Wyse and Special Assistant United States Attorney Corinne M. Lambert.
Denver man convicted of conspiracy to distribute fentanylRead the Press Release
Traquevis Dewayne Hardy, age 46, of Denver, Colorado, was convicted on Oct. 25 by a federal jury for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl in Wyoming. The trial lasted two days and was held before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl in Casper, Wyoming.
Hardy was indicted by a federal grand jury and pleaded not guilty to the charge in May. According to evidence presented at trial, detectives with the Cheyenne Police Department and agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted custodial interviews with several individuals who had recently been arrested and charged with drug crimes. The interviews, along with corroborating evidence from cellphones and Facebook, demonstrated that these individuals received at least 5,600 fentanyl pills from Hardy for distribution in Wyoming.
Sentencing has been set for Jan. 16, 2024. Hardy faces 5 to 40 years in prison, up to a $5 million fine, and no less than four years of supervised release. The judge will determine Hardy’s sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This crime was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy J. Forwood and Paige Hammer.
Case No. 23-CR-00053
Construction Firm CFO Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Employment Tax CrimeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A Louisiana man was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for willfully failing to report and pay over the IRS employment taxes withheld from employees’ paychecks.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Julian Russ of Houma, was the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Community Construction Company LLC, a pipeline-maintenance and construction company based in Hazelhurst, Mississippi. As CFO, Russ was responsible for collecting, accounting for and paying over the company’s employment taxes. From at least 2012 to 2018, Russ did not file the company’s quarterly employment tax returns or pay the IRS the taxes withheld from employees’ wages, despite knowing of his legal obligation to do so. In total, Russ caused a tax loss to the IRS of more than $6 million.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Court Senior Judge David Bramlette III ordered Russ to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $2,714,280.71 in restitution to the United States.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Todd Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi made the announcement.
IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Curtis J. Weidler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham for the Southern District of Mississippi prosecuted the case.
Construction Firm CFO Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Employment Tax CrimeRead the Press Release
A Louisiana man was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for willfully failing to report and pay over the IRS employment taxes withheld from employees’ paychecks.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Julian Russ of Houma, was the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Community Construction Company LLC, a pipeline-maintenance and construction company based in Hazelhurst, Mississippi. As CFO, Russ was responsible for collecting, accounting for and paying over the company’s employment taxes. From at least 2012 to 2018, Russ did not file the company’s quarterly employment tax returns or pay the IRS the taxes withheld from employees’ wages, despite knowing of his legal obligation to do so. In total, Russ caused a tax loss to the IRS of more than $6 million.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Court Senior Judge David Bramlette III ordered Russ to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $2,714,280.71 in restitution to the United States.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Todd Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi made the announcement.
IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Curtis J. Weidler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham for the Southern District of Mississippi prosecuted the case.
Cherokee Man Sentenced to 28 Months in Federal Prison for Meth ConvictionRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced on October 23, 2023, in federal court in Sioux City.
Jason Werner, 38, from Cherokee, Iowa, pled guilty on June 6, 2023, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed Werner’s involvement in a conspiracy that distributed at least 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine from December 2019 through May 2022. Werner assisted at least seven others in the conspiracy in obtaining about four pounds of methamphetamine and one pound of marijuana from sources in California and Nevada and transporting the drugs in a hidden vehicle compartment to Cherokee, Iowa, for further distribution.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Werner was sentenced to 28 months’ imprisonment and must serve a three-year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Werner remains in the 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 Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, United States Postal Inspectors, Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Colorado State Patrol, Iowa DCI Laboratory, and Cherokee Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-4066. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Charlotte Man Is Sentenced to 14 Years on Gun Charge in Connection with Armed Robbery and Possession of A Weapon by an InmateRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Frank D. Whitney sentenced Antoine Marquis Williams, 35, of Charlotte, to 14 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release, for a firearms offense in connection with an armed robbery and possession of a weapon by an inmate, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
U.S. Attorney King is joined in making today’s announcement by Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina, Terry J. Burgin, United States Marshal of the United States Marshals Service for the Western District of North Carolina, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD).
According to filed court documents and court proceedings, on February 5, 2019, at 4:37 p.m., Williams and another individual entered the NY Jewelry & Repair Store located at 6121 South Boulevard in Charlotte. Williams and his co-conspirator had their faces covered and were armed with handguns. The two men encountered the store owner who was with a customer and ordered him into the backroom with two other employees. Court documents show that Williams and his co-conspirator then went to the front of the store and began stealing jewelry. Afterwards, Williams’ co-conspirator fled the store with several items. Williams stayed behind and became involved in a struggle with the store owner. At some point during the struggle, Williams discharged his firearm two times before fleeing the store. The owner called 911 and CMPD officers located Williams hiding under a vehicle at a nearby residence. Officers also recovered the firearm Williams had used during the robbery and had attempted to discard while he was fleeing from the store.
According to court documents, on September 2, 2021, the U.S. Marshals Service received a criminal investigation concerning Williams for repeated possession of weapons and use of weapons while he was in federal custody at a local detention facility. Court documents in this case indicate that, on four different occasions, Williams was found in possession of homemade weapons, generally consisting of pieces of metal filed down to a point. On one occasion, Williams used a homemade weapon to attack another inmate. During the altercation, Williams cut the victim with the homemade weapon multiple times on the face and neck. The victim required medical treatment due to injuries sustained from the attack.
On April 28, 2021, Williams pleaded guilty to discharge of a firearm, in relation to, and in furtherance of a crime of violence, in connection with the armed robbery. Then on June 24, 2022, Williams pleaded guilty to possession of a weapon by an inmate. Williams remains in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service, and CMPD for their investigative efforts.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Hess of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case.
California Woman to Federal Prison for Iowa Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A woman who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced on October 25, 2023, in federal court in Sioux City.
Lauretta Payce, 62, from Fontana, California, pled guilty on June 16, 2023, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
At the plea and sentencing hearings, Payce admitted her involvement in a conspiracy that distributed at least three kilograms of methamphetamine from December 2019 through May 2022. Payce further admitted to assisting at least six others in distributing about four pounds of methamphetamine and one pound of marijuana from California and Nevada which was transported in a hidden compartment in a vehicle, to Cherokee, Iowa, for further distribution.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Payce was sentenced to 64 months’ imprisonment and a term of two years’ supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Payce remains in custody of the U.S. Marshals Service until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, United States Postal Inspectors, Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Colorado State Patrol, Iowa DCI Laboratory, and Cherokee Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-4066. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
California Woman with Five Prior Felony Drug Convictions Sentenced to Twenty Years in Federal Prison for Iowa Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A woman who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced on October 23, 2023, to 240 months’ imprisonment.
Andrea Romo, 41, from Gardena, California, pled guilty on June 16, 2023, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed Romo’s involvement in a conspiracy that distributed at least 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine from December 2019 through May 2022. Romo assisted at least seven others in the conspiracy in distributing about four pounds of methamphetamine and one pound of marijuana from California and Nevada and transporting the drugs, in a hidden compartment in a vehicle, back to Cherokee, Iowa, for further distribution.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Romo was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment and must serve a five-year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Romo remains in the custody of the United States Marshal until she can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, United States Postal Inspectors, Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Iowa DCI Laboratory, and Cherokee Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-4066. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Buffalo man going to prison for 12 ½ years for selling fentanyl that led to two deathsRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Reginald E. Alexander, 60, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, was sentenced to serve 150 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who handled the case, stated that in 2003, Alexander was convicted of a felony in Erie County Supreme Court, and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition.
On December 30, 2020, Alexander called 911 to report that an individual identified as N.P. was present and unresponsive in his Moselle Street residence. When first responders and Buffalo Police Officers arrived a short time later, N.P. was pronounced dead. Prior to N.P.’s death, N.P. consumed fentanyl which Alexander possessed for distribution in his apartment. Subsequently, investigators recovered approximately 17 grams of fentanyl, drug paraphernalia, $3,798.00, and a 9mm semi-automatic pistol and ammunition from Alexander’s apartment.
On February 18, 2021, an individual identified as J.M. contacted Alexander by text message to purchase fentanyl. The two met on Main Street in Buffalo, where Alexander gave J.M. fentanyl. J.M. returned home, used the fentanyl, and was subsequently located by family members unconscious. First responders were called and administered Narcan and CPR to J.M., who was then transferred to a hospital where he later died.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia, the Hamburg Police Department, under the direction of Chief Peter Dienes, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito, New York Field Division.
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Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Statement on Lewiston, Maine, Mass ShootingRead the Press Release
The Justice Department issued the following statement from Attorney General Merrick B. Garland on the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine:
“I am heartbroken for those who have lost loved ones, for those who have been injured, and for the entire Lewiston community.
The FBI, ATF, and U.S. Marshals are on the ground to provide investigative support and victims assistance services to our law enforcement partners in Maine.
We stand ready to provide any support that our state and local partners need.
No community should have to endure the horrific mass shootings that have become routine in our country.”
Atlantic County Felon Sentenced to 170 Months in Prison for Distributing Drugs and Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – An Atlantic County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 170 months in prison for his role in drug distribution and possession of a firearm as a felon, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Clay Brown, 30, of Pleasantville, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Joseph H. Rodriguez to an information charging him with one count of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm as a previously convicted felon. Judge Rodriguez imposed the sentence today in Camden federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Brown distributed methamphetamine and fentanyl on multiple occasions to a confidential informant. The day that agents arrested Brown for drug distribution, Brown possessed a backpack containing a firearm and controlled substances that Brown intended to distribute to others. Brown has multiple prior felony convictions that make it unlawful for him to possess a firearm.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Rodriguez sentenced Brown to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents Homeland Security Investigations Newark, Atlantic City office, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Kurtz, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing. He also thanked the Drug Enforcement Administration, Newark Division, and the New Jersey State Police, Crime Suppression South Unit, for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
Alpine Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALPINE, Texas – An Alpine man was sentenced in a federal court in Alpine to 78 months in prison for possession of child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, Timothy Rey Korteland, 19, engaged in multiple conversations, sexual in nature, with a minor in another state over the messaging application Discord. An FBI agent executed a search warrant for Korteland’s Discord account, revealing multiple instances of Korteland claiming to have child sexual abuse material. Agents with Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI conducted a search warrant at Korteland’s residence, removing all electronics in his possession, and found multiple video files depicting young children engaged in sexual activity saved in an application on his cell phone.
Korteland pleaded guilty to the possession of child pornography charge on March 28.
“This defendant, by his own estimate, possessed around 2,000 videos of child sexual abuse material and other illicit sexual content, and was forming an online relationship with a minor,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “I appreciate the collaborative efforts by our federal law enforcement partners to prevent Korteland from causing any further harm to his victims. This federal prison sentence should serve as a warning to anyone who seeks out and possesses material of this nature, that we will be relentless in our pursuit of justice.”
“The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to protect children from those who seek to exploit their innocence,” said Special Agent in Charge John S. Morales of the FBI El Paso Field Office. “These types of cases serve as a reminder of the importance for parents/caregivers to be aware of who their children are talking to when they are online and playing in group gaming platforms.”
“This sentence is a testament to the repugnant nature of child exploitation crimes which only perpetuates the trauma endured by victims,” said Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola of the HSI El Paso Division. “HSI agents make it a top priority to protect vulnerable children from victimization by working with their law enforcement partners to investigate predators involved in child sexual abuse material and ensure they are held accountable for their heinous actions.”
The FBI and HSI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Greenbaum prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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25 October 2023
U.S. Attorney Will Thompson Affirms Commitment to Goals of Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Each October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) provides an opportunity to honor victims and survivors and recognize the dedication of advocates, service providers, justice professionals, law enforcement officers, and first responders who tirelessly work in support of survivors.
The prevalence of domestic, dating and intimate partner violence is alarming. Approximately one in four women and one in seven men will experience severe domestic violence in their lifetimes. Nearly 20 percent of all violent crime is categorized as domestic violence, as revealed by the 2021 National Crime Victimization Survey data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics.
“Domestic violence affects us all personally in some way, and can have long-lasting impacts and consequences,” said United States Attorney Will Thompson. “As federal prosecutors in the Southern District of West Virginia, it is incumbent upon us to deploy every available resource and forge strategic collaborations with local law enforcement and fellow prosecutors. We have a shared responsibility to ensure that victims have a viable path to safety and justice.”
Thompson is promoting the importance of enforcing federal firearm prohibitions as part of the observance of DVAM.
Domestic violence abusers with access to a gun are five times more likely to kill their partners. In West Virginia, 14 of the 19 domestic violence homicides reported in 2020 were committed with firearms. In addition to their lethality, firearms are used by abusers to inflict fear, intimidation, and coercive control.
The Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative helps support survivors and prevent this form of violence. PSN is a nationwide initiative that connects federal, state and local law enforcement, prosecutors, and community leaders. The result is a collaborative approach to identifying the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and developing comprehensive solutions to address them.
Under federal law, offenders with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions and those subject to domestic violence protective orders are prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms. Those who violate that prohibition face felony prosecution and the imposition of a federal prison sentence.
“A crucial part of combatting domestic violence and reducing violent crimes includes enforcing federal firearm prohibitions,” Thompson said. “We want our communities to know that we are here to support victims and survivors in the Southern District of West Virginia, and not just in October but every month.”
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence or need resources, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/local-resources.
Immediate help for domestic violence victims: Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline (@ndvhofficial) at 1-800-799-7233 or Strong Hearts Native Helpline (@strongheartsdv) at 1-844-762-8483.
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 Hurwit Announces Federal Prison Sentences for Four Eastern Idaho Methamphetamine TraffickersRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the results of five separate methamphetamine trafficking cases in Eastern Idaho today.
“This series of cases shows my office’s commitment to disrupting the flow of illegal drugs into Idaho,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “Through close collaboration with our state, local, tribal, and federal law enforcement partners, we continue to hold accountable those who distribute poison in our communities.”
1. Montana Man to Serve 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing with the Intent to Distribute 2 Pounds of Methamphetamine.
In one case, Benjamin C. Brooks, 46, of Billings, Montana was sentenced to ten years in federal for possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Brooks to serve five years of supervised released after the completion of his prison sentence.
According to court records, in July 2021, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Brooks. After smelling the odor of marijuana coming from the car, officers conducted a search and found approximately two pounds of methamphetamine and a firearm.
2. Pocatello Woman to Serve 57 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.
In a separate case, Stacy Lynn Allen, 51, of Pocatello, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Chief U.S. District David C. Nye also ordered that Allen serve three years of supervised release upon completion of her prison sentence.
According to court records, in November of 2022, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Allen. Allen had a warrant for arrest and admitted she had marijuana in the car. Law enforcement searched the car and found approximately two pounds of methamphetamine. Allen admitted to intending to distribute the substance.
3. Idaho Falls Drug Dealer Sentenced to 60 Months in Federal Prison.
In a third case, Ben Reed Rubidoux, 44, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye sentenced Rubidoux serve four years of supervised release upon completion of his prison sentence.
According to court records, in September 2022, law enforcement conducted controlled purchases of 10 pills of fentanyl from Rubidoux. In November of 2022, law enforcement found Rubidoux in possession of two firearms and over three grams of methamphetamine. In December 2022, law enforcement found Rubidoux in possession of approximately 39 grams of methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine. Rubidoux admitted that he possessed the methamphetamine with intent to distribute it to another person. Rubidoux entered his guilty plea to the charge on July 27, 2023.
4. Fort Hall Man to Serve 37 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.
In a fourth case, Arriyon Royce Meeks, 43, of Fort Hall, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also sentenced Meeks three years of supervised release. Meeks served an additional six months in jail in Tribal jail on the same charge, for which Judge Nye gave him credit.
According to court records, in August 2021, officers with the Fort Hall Police Department saw Meeks at a residence on Fort Hall, washing a car. Officers knew that Meeks had two active Tribal Court warrants for his arrest and took him into custody. Officers conducted a search of the vehicle and found 148 grams of methamphetamine. Meeks admitted that he possessed the methamphetamine with intent to distribute it to another person. Meeks entered his guilty plea to the charge on July 19, 2023.
5. Pocatello Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute and Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine.
In another case, Thomas Schooley, 39, of Pocatello, entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court records, in January 2023, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. Schooley was a passenger in the vehicle. Also located in the vehicle was approximately 80 grams of methamphetamine. Schooley admitted he had received a quarter pound of methamphetamine and had been selling it to others. The 80 grams was what was left over from the quarter pound. Schooley is facing a term of imprisonment of at least ten years up to life in federal prison to be followed by at least five years of supervised release. Schooley is scheduled to be sentenced on January 17, 2024.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, the Idaho State Police, the Idaho Falls Police Department, the Fort Hall Police Department, and the Pocatello Police Department, which participated as part of the BAGES Task Force, for their investigations in these cases.
The BADGES Task force is made up of multiple federal, state, and local agencies located in the Bannock County area and focuses on drug trafficking crimes.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Blythe McLane is prosecuting the Brooks, Allen, and Schooley cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Paskett prosecuted the Rubidoux case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Haycock prosecuted the Meeks case.
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Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two out-of-state men were sentenced to prison today after admitting to charges resulting from a January 5, 2022, raid on a Huntington storage unit.
Phillip Antoine Rucker, also known as “Chocolate,” 43, of Proctorville, Ohio, was sentenced to nine years and three months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
Marshall Luther Williams, also known as “Chuck” and “Chubs,” 41, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced to 12 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for aiding and abetting the possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 5, 2022, law enforcement officers arrested Rucker on an active warrant at a Riverside Drive storage facility in Huntington. Officers found approximately $5,080 and a Taurus Model Spectrum .380-caliber pistol in Rucker’s vehicle and seized a key for a unit at the storage facility from Rucker.
Officers obtained a search warrant for the unit and during the search they found approximately 42.24 grams of a substance containing fentanyl, 27.92 grams of methamphetamine, 929 grams of a purple powder, a Glock 9mm pistol, and $8,591.
Rucker and Williams each admitted to renting the storage unit and keeping controlled substance there for distribution. Rucker and Williams further admitted that the purple powder found during the search was intended to cut or be mixed with the fentanyl prior to distribution.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph F. Adams and Courtney L. Finney prosecuted the case.
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. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:22-cr-34.
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Transnational criminal organization leader detained in U.S.Read the Press Release
HOUSTON - A 67-year-old naturalized citizen of the United States has made his appearance in Houston federal court and remains detained pending further criminal proceedings, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Ricardo Barrera was the leader of a transnational criminal organization operating from the Republic of Mexico, the Rio Grande Valley and Houston. He was recently extradited to the United States and is now in custody.
He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina A. Bryan, at which time the court heard evidence outlining Barrera’s organization. The court determined he was a flight risk and ordered he remain in custody pending further criminal proceedings.
Barrera’s organization allegedly provided domestic transportation services for the Los Zetas Cartel and Cartel del Golfo to conceal the transportation of narcotics and currency through Mexico and into the United States.
The charges allege the organization utilized numerous cloned tractor trailers from various well-known retailers and businesses to conceal the transportation of narcotics.
The investigation resulted in the seizure of more than 76,795 pounds of marijuana, according to the allegations.
Barrera fled to Mexico after learning of the charges. Mexican authorities arrested him on a provisional arrest warrant in Miguel Aleman, Mexico, Oct. 23, 2021. He was extradited to the United States Oct. 10.
If convicted, Barrera faces up to life in federal prison as well as a possible $10 million fine.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) with assistance from Drug Enforcement Administration, Texas Department of Public Safety, IRS Criminal Investigation, Houston Police Department, Harris County Sheriff’s Office and Pasadena Police Department as well as the U.S. Marshals Service. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with the Mexican Attorney General’s Office to secure the arrest and extradition of Barrera. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric D. Smith is prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Thibodaux Man Charged with Receiving Child Sexual Abuse Material and Obscene Visual Representations of the Sexual Abuse of ChildrenRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that a two-count indictment was unsealed today charging SIMON PAUL ADAMS, age 27, a resident of Thibodaux, Louisiana, with receiving and attempting to receive child sexual abuse material (CSAM), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a)(2) (Count 1) and receiving obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1466A (Count 2). The unsealed indictment revealed that a federal grand jury returned the indictment under seal on September 29, 2023.
As to Count 1, beginning at a time unknown, but not later than on or about March 26, 2023, and continuing until on or about July 3, 2023, ADAMS, received images, including some as young as approximately three (3) years old, engaging in sexually explicit conduct as defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 2256(2), and such visual depictions were of such conduct, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(2) and (b)(1).
As to Count 2, beginning at a time unknown, but not later than on or about March 26, 2023, and continuing until on or about July 3, 2023, ADAMS, did knowingly produce, distribute, receive, and possess with the intent to distribute, images of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1466A(a)(1) and 2252A(b)(1).
ADAMS faces a mandatory minimum of five (5) years in prison and a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years as to each of Counts 1 and 2. ADAMS also faces a lifetime of supervised release and up to a $250,000 fine, as to each of Counts 1 and 2. ADAMS may also be required to register as a sex offender.
U. S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg , Chief of the Public Integrity Unit , is in charge of the prosecution.
- Press release has been updated for accuracy.
Texas Resident Pleads Guilty to Cares Act FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – BRIA PETERS, age 38, formerly of New Orleans, LA and now residing in Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty on October 18, 2023 to a one-count bill of information for making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) before U.S. District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
On March 27, 2020, The CARES Act established several new temporary programs and provided for the expansion of others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorized forgivable loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.
According to the court documents, PETERS made false statements to an approved lender on or about May 27, 2021, for the purpose of fraudulently obtaining a PPP loan. As a consequence, PETERS later received a PPP loan totaling approximately $29,166.00. PETERS stated in her PPP application that in 2020, she owned a clothing business impacted by the pandemic when, in truth, she had no such business .
PETERS is to be sentenced on January 17, 2024 and faces a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release for the false statements count. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee due after conviction.
For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Amtrak Office of Inspector General – Criminal Investigations, in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Tampa Man Indicted for Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Telvin O. Wright (26, Tampa) with distribution of a mixture of cocaine and fentanyl which resulted in an overdose death, and with possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl. If convicted, Wright faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 20 years, up to life, in federal prison for the distribution of fentanyl resulting in death, and up to 20 years’ imprisonment for the possession with intent to distribute offense. The indictment also notifies Wright that the United States intends to forfeit any assets which are alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense.
According to the indictment, on February 9, 2022, Wright distributed a mixture of cocaine and fentanyl to an individual who died after ingesting the substance. On February 11, 2022, Wright possessed fentanyl with the intent to distribute it.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maria Guzman.
Tampa Armed Career Criminal Convicted at Trial for Possessing A Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Ivan Lamar Vasquez (39, Tampa) has been found guilty, following a bench trial before United States District Court Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell, of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Lamar Vasquez qualifies for enhanced penalties under the Armed Career Criminal Act. He faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 30, 2024. Lamar Vasquez was indicted on February 21, 2021.
According to evidence presented at trial, on October 26, 2020, members of the Tampa Police Department (TPD) executed a search warrant at Lamar Vasquez’s residence in Sulphur Springs. TPD officers observed Lamar Vasquez flee from the residence at the time of the search and apprehended him shortly thereafter. Inside the residence, officers discovered a loaded Keltec pistol bearing a latent fingerprint belonging to Lamar Vasquez. Lamar Vasquez’s DNA was also recovered from the firearm. At the time, Lamar Vasquez had multiple prior felony convictions for delivery of cocaine and is therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David W.A. Chee, David P. Sullivan, and Callan L. Albritton.
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.
Sumner, Washington, man charged with Aggravated Identity theft, falsely claiming to be U.S. Citizen, and using a false documentRead the Press Release
Tacoma – A Sumner, Washington man who has lived under a false identity for more than 25 years was arrested on a federal criminal complaint for Aggravated Identity Theft, falsely claiming to be a U.S. Citizen, and using a false document, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Roberto Manzano, 53, was taken into custody yesterday and appeared in U.S. District Court in Tacoma. He was detained pending additional court proceedings next month.
According to the complaint, Manzano began living under a false identity shortly after a California court issued a warrant for his arrest in 1996 on domestic violence related assault and kidnapping charges. Manzano has been using an identity that belongs to a real individual, without that person’s knowledge. He used the identity for his employment with a logistics company in the Seattle area. Manzano also used the identity to pass necessary clearance checks required by the Transportation Security Administration to perform his work at this logistics company. In evaluating his most recent application, TSA Investigations noticed some conflicting information and referred the matter to the Diplomatic Security Service for investigation.
Manzano has also used the identity to unlawfully vote in state and national elections since approximately 2004.
The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Aggravated Identity Theft is punishable by a mandatory minimum two years in prison on top of any other sentence imposed in the case. Falsely claiming to be a U.S. Citizen is punishable by up to three years in prison and using a false document is punishable by up to five years in prison.
The case is being investigated by the Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) with assistance from the TSA.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sean Waite.
Stilwell Resident Sentenced for Federal Drug and Firearm Crimes, and Eluding Peace Officers in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Kenneth Lee Kelley, age 58, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 70 months of imprisonment for one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, 70 months of imprisonment for one count of felon in possession of ammunition, and 60 months of imprisonment for one count of eluding a peace officer in Indian country. The sentences will run concurrently.
The charges arose from investigations by the Westville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On October 12, 2022, Kelley entered a guilty plea to the three counts. According to investigators, on April 2, 2022, while attempting to evade arrest on an outstanding warrant out of Adair County, Kelley led police officers on a high-speed chase, exceeding speeds of 70 miles per hour, and colliding with multiple police vehicles. Officers brought Kelley to a stop by deploying stop sticks and forcing him into a ditch. When officers arrested Kelley at the scene, they found him in possession of more than 300 grams of methamphetamine, over 90 rounds of ammunition, and a large sum of cash. The crimes occurred in Adair County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearings in Muskogee. Kelley will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant United States Attorneys Casey Richmond, Kevin Gross, and Ryan Bondura represented the United States.