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Monday 21 August 2023
Ringleader of Capital Region Cocaine Conspiracy Receives 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jan Lopez-Colon, age 29, of Troy, New York, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for his role as the leader of a Capital Region cocaine distribution conspiracy. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), made the announcement.
On December 29, 2022, Lopez-Colon pled guilty before Senior United States District Judge Gary L. Sharpe to conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Lopez-Colon admitted that between June 2021 and December 2021, he and three others worked together to receive over 5 kilograms of cocaine from Puerto Rico and distribute it in the Capital Region. The cocaine was shipped via U.S. mail in 1-kilogram bricks to addresses in Albany and Rensselaer counties; runners then obtained the packages and handed them over to Lopez-Colon for processing and distribution.
Judge Sharpe also imposed a 5-year term of supervised release, which will begin when Lopez-Colon is released from prison.
Lopez-Colon’s three codefendants have also pled guilty for their roles in the conspiracy. They are:
- Jesus Baez, age 34, of Troy, who was sentenced to 5 years’ imprisonment on July 11, 2023;
- Ilvin Batista-Figueroa, age 31, of Albany, who is scheduled to be sentenced on August 28, 2023; and
- Sam Calderon, age 20, of Troy, who is scheduled to be sentenced on September 19, 2023.
This case was investigated by the USPIS and its Capital Region Task Force, led by the USPIS and including the Albany Police Department, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, and the Schenectady Police Department, as well as the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin S. Clark is prosecuting the case.
Rensselaer Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Robbery and Firearms Charges for Two Capital Region Armed Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Ulysses Jessie Walls, a/k/a “Guwala,” age 29, of Rensselaer, New York, pled guilty today to armed bank robbery, firearms and conspiracy charges in connection with two February 2019 armed bank robberies.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Alfred Watson, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Steven A. Nigrelli, Acting Superintendent of the New York State Police (NYSP); Chief Eric Hawkins of the Albany Police Department (APD); and Chief David Keevern of the North Greenbush Police Department.
Walls admitted that he committed two armed robberies with Christopher Cohn a/k/a “Wolf.” On February 6, 2019, Walls and Cohn pulled up to an Albany Trustco Bank branch, where Cohn declared he was about to “go do this,” meaning that he planned to rob the bank. Walls and Cohn then entered the bank wearing ski masks. In the bank, Walls displayed a gun, and both men threatened to kill the bank’s employees, who surrendered approximately $150,000 to the pair.
Walls also admitted that on the morning of February 26, 2019, he and Cohn entered an M&T Bank branch in North Greenbush, each wearing a ski mask and brandishing a gun. During the robbery, Cohn fired multiple shots, including one that grazed a bank employee. According to court documents, law enforcement tracked Cohn, Walls, and their getaway driver to an Albany motel using a GPS device placed in the stolen money by a member of the bank’s staff. Cohn was apprehended by officers with more than $10,000 in cash and wearing red sneakers matching those captured by the bank’s surveillance cameras during the robbery. Walls was arrested in the motel’s lobby, where officers found him with several bags containing approximately $3,800 in cash along with ski masks and other clothing matching that worn by the robbers.
Walls will be sentenced on December 27, 2023 by United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino. Under the terms of Walls’s plea agreement, the parties have jointly recommended to Judge D’Agostino that Walls receive a prison term of 204 months (17 years) and a 5-year term of post-imprisonment supervised release. Under the plea agreement, Walls will also be required to pay restitution to his victims, including both banks, and to forfeit the money he stole in the robberies.
After pleading guilty to firearms, armed bank robbery and conspiracy charges, Cohn was sentenced to 241 months’ imprisonment by Senior United States District Judge Lawrence E. Kahn.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the NYSP, the Town of North Greenbush Police Department, and APD, with the assistance of the Albany County Sheriff’s Office and the Rensselaer County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua R. Rosenthal and Ashlyn Miranda prosecuted the case.
Readout from United States Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez’s Violent Crime Listening Session with Addiction Treatment ProvidersRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and his staff met with addiction treatment providers on July 25 at the Main Public Library to discuss violent crime. Jennifer Weiss-Burke, Director of Healing Addiction in Our Community and Serenity Mesa Recovery Center and Jeffrey Holland, LCSW and Executive Director of the Endorphin Power Company presented statements. This was the third listening session held with community members this summer.
United States Attorney Uballez opened the session by explaining that the Attorney General directed United States Attorney’s Offices to focus on addressing violent crime through intervention and outreach efforts. Participants described how young people have unrestricted access to guns. Providers described how every one of their clients had been victims of or impacted by violence. Jeffrey Holland stated, “[Clients] have preexisting traumatic incidents that have happened and then later struggle with addiction.” Participants agreed that Albuquerque Community Services (ACS) needed more support and resources so that they could expand their scope of work.
Speaking to the challenges facing local organizations that work with clients that struggle with addiction, Jennifer Weiss-Burke identified the prevalence of sex trafficking victimization among their clients. The majority of the clients that treatment providers encounter are struggling with Fentanyl use. Currently, there is no detox center for adolescents, so they often have to detox in the hospital. Jeffrey Holland said he’d like the Metropolitan Detention Center to allow faith-based programs such as 12-step programs allowed in jail again. He also mentioned that “once offenders are in jail they turn off Medicaid. When they are released, they do not have Medicaid and have to wait to get back on it to receive Suboxone or other medications they need immediately.” This causes issues for the clients that they serve.
When asked what issues the treatment providers see that cause the divide between law enforcement and the community, both Serenity Mesa Recovery Center and Endorphin Power Company agreed that their clients would feel more comfortable if officers came in and talked with them without weapons or bulletproof vests, and civilian clothing would be ideal. Jennifer Weiss-Burke requested that the Albuquerque Police Department send officers to come and have an open dialogue with her clients.
USA Uballez convened this listening session as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. USA Uballez previously met with representatives from organizations that serve Albuquerque’s International District and community providers who serve the unhoused population. These sessions were an opportunity for the USA and his staff to recognize the vital role that these leaders, providers and advocates play in our community.
PSN is an evidence-based program proven 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. In New Mexico, the United States Attorney’s Office pursues a community violence intervention approach. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally-based intervention, prevention, and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies and community organizations. The programs’ emphasis on community engagement, prevention and intervention measures, focused and strategic enforcement, and measurement and accountability has helped achieve overall reductions in violent crime, including gun homicides, in neighborhoods where PSN strategies have been implemented.
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Orlando Man Sentenced to More Than Nine Years for COVID-19 Fraud and Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Brian A. Blake (31, Orlando) to nine years and eight months in federal prison for access device fraud, aggravated identity theft, and possession of a firearm by convicted felon. As part of the sentence, the court also ordered Blake to pay restitution in the amount of $579,074 to victims of the offenses. The court further ordered that Blake forfeit proceeds and instrumentalities of the offenses, including $80,482 in cash located in Blake’s residence, an Aero Precision firearm, and a number of computers and cellphones used to perpetrate the fraud. Blake had pleaded guilty on October 18, 2022.
In March 2020, the “CARES Act,” was enacted to provide immediate assistance to individuals, families, and organizations affected by the COVID-19 emergency. This Act authorized the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to offer Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) funding to business owners negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act further expanded the ability of workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to obtain Unemployment Insurance (UI) and increased the amounts of UI benefits for applicants.
According to court documents, in 2020, Blake fraudulently obtained $491,074 in UI benefits by filing unemployment claims across 25 different states in the names of identity theft victims. In addition, in June and July 2020, Blake submitted 26 fraudulent applications for EIDL loans in the names of identity theft victims attempting to secure a total of $341,200, of which $88,000 was disbursed to Blake. The total amount of funds that Blake attempted to fraudulently obtain was $832,274.
In addition, on July 10, 2020, during the execution of a search warrant at Blake’s residence, officers from the Orlando Police Department found an assault-style Aero Precision firearm, Model SL15. As a previously convicted felon, Blake is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Department of Labor - Office of Inspector General, and the Orlando Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chauncey A. Bratt.
Orange County Tax Preparer Sentenced to Nearly 3½ Years in Prison for Participating in Long-Running Fraud Led by Corrupt Social WorkerRead the Press Release
SANTA ANA, California – The owner of a Westminster-based tax preparation business was sentenced today to 41 months in federal prison for participating in a scheme orchestrated by a corrupt social worker who stole his clients’ identities to fraudulently obtain tax refunds, welfare benefits and credit cards.
Anton Nguyen, 54, of Fountain Valley, was sentenced by United States District Judge James V. Selna, who also ordered him to pay $3,773,282 in restitution.
Nguyen pleaded guilty on April 10 to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States.
Nguyen conspired with John Tran, who is believed to be either 57 or 61, of Fountain Valley, an Orange County Social Services Agency case worker from July 1994 to October 2018. Tran stole the Social Security numbers and other personal identifying information (PII) from his clients – many of them recent immigrants.
From August 2010 to June 2019, Tran and his co-conspirators used the stolen information to fraudulently obtain money from the federal government, the State of California, the County of Orange and financial institutions.
During this time, Nguyen owned and operated Century Travel & Tax, a tax preparation company based in Westminster. Nguyen joined the conspiracy in 2012 and used the Tran-provided stolen identities to create fraudulent Forms 1099-MISC purporting to show payments made to the identity theft victims by companies, including those controlled by Tran and other co-conspirators. He also helped his accomplices set up shell companies to promote the scheme.
Nguyen prepared and filed federal income tax returns using the Tran-provided stolen identities. He also used the purported payments on the fraudulent Forms 1099 as income to the identify theft victims, making them appear to qualify for tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit.
In turn, the reported payments to the identity theft victims were used by Nguyen’s clients to offset business revenues and reduce the taxes they owed by making it appear that the identity theft victims worked for them. In exchange for the fabrication of the Forms 1099, Nguyen’s clients paid him a fee.
Tran and his co-conspirators filed 433 tax returns using PII belonging to other individuals, generating at least $973,153 in fraudulently obtained tax refund payments from the United States.
In total, Nguyen, aided by accomplices, defrauded the United States out of the payment of at least $3,773,282 in taxes.
“This was an appreciably sophisticated tax evasion scheme, involving the theft and improper use of PII by a civil servant to generate fraudulent deductions for businesses,” prosecutors argued in a sentencing memorandum. “For the scheme to succeed, tax preparers, like [Nguyen], were essential.”
As for other defendants charged in connection with this conspiracy:
- Tran pleaded guilty in November 2019 to conspiracy to defraud the United States with respect to claims, mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 19.
- Rosemary Pham, 65, of Midway City, the owner and operator of Victory Tax Service in Westminster, pleaded guilty on July 14 to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and one count of aiding and advising the filing of false tax returns. She faces up to eight years in federal prison at her sentencing hearing, which is scheduled for October 30.
- Kevin Le, 57, of Anaheim Hills, pleaded guilty in May 2021 to one count of evasion of assessment of tax. On May 10, Judge Selna sentenced Le to six months in federal prison, fined him $15,000, and ordered him to pay $2,936,088 in restitution.
- Thomas Nguyen, 62, of Santa Ana, pleaded guilty in June 2021 to one count of tax evasion. In May 2022, Judge Selna fined him $30,000 and ordered him to pay $133,796 in restitution.
- Van Quach, 43, of Monterey Park, pleaded guilty in May 2021 to one count of evasion of assessment of tax. On May 10, Judge Selna sentenced Quach to two years of probation, fined him $5,500, and ordered him to pay $231,340 in restitution.
- Peter Duc Nguyen, 63, of Garden Grove, pleaded guilty in April 2022 to one count of tax evasion. On May 10, he was sentenced to two years of probation and was ordered to pay $187,295 in restitution.
- Two remaining defendants, Chau Nguyen, 69, of Garden Grove, and Sophie Thuy Nguyen, 48, of Westminster, have pleaded guilty to evasion of assessment of taxes and are scheduled to be sentenced later this year, at which time they will each face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.
IRS Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Bradley E. Marrett of the Santa Ana Branch Office prosecuted this case.
New Orleans Man Sentenced on Federal Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SHAWN BREAUX, age 29, a resident of Orleans Parish, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance to 69 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to a two-count indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
In Count 1 of the indictment, BREAUX is charged with illegally possessing firearms as a felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). Count 2 of the indictment charged BREAUX with being in possession of a machine gun in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).
On October 8, 2021, officers responded to a shooting in the 100 block of Carondelet Street and saw BREAUX fleeing the scene BREAUX was eventually detained in the French Quarter after driving the wrong way down Royal Street. Investigators located two firearms, one in BREAUX’s vehicle and another discarded as he fled from the officers. A Glock switch mechanism was attached to one of the firearms, making it into a fully automatic weapon.
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.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Bedford Store Owner Pleads Guilty to Selling Fake Government Identification DocumentsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The owner of International Guatemala Musical and Fashion Accessories in New Bedford has pleaded guilty to producing and selling fraudulent government identification documents.
Tomas Xirum, 48, pleaded guilty on Aug. 17, 2023 to three counts of unlawful transfer of document or authentication feature and three counts of unlawful production of document or authentication feature. U.S. District Judge Patti B. Saris Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 11, 2024. Xirum was initially charged by criminal complaint in August 2022 and subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2022.
On three separate occasions – May 10, 2021, June 23, 2021 and Aug. 11, 2022 – Xirum sold fraudulent Permanent Resident Cards (commonly referred to as “green cards”) and Social Security cards to undercover federal agents from his store.
The charges of unlawful transfer of document or authentication feature and unlawful production of document or authentication feature each provide for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Michael J. Krol, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney David G. Tobin of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
Myrtle Beach Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearms CrimesRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, SOUTH CAROLINA — Charles Donald Butler, 57, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced to more than 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, and fentanyl, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Evidence presented to the court showed that for several years, Butler ran a drug distribution ring in the Myrtle Beach area. Butler served as a source of supply to intermediate distributors, who in turn sold to drug users from a trailer in Myrtle Beach. In the mornings, Butler would supply his distributors with “slips” of drugs – small quantities of drugs packaged in foil wrappers. Butler used this system so he could tell whether his distributors were stealing any of the drugs. In the evenings, Butler would pick up from the trailer money earned from drug dealing and any leftover “slips.”
Over the course of the conspiracy, Butler was accountable for more than 600 grams of heroin, 78 grams of crack cocaine, and quantities of both cocaine and fentanyl.
In May of 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Butler’s home. Inside, they found various controlled substances, foil slips, and a .380 caliber handgun and ammunition.
“Drugs and guns are a deadly combination, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting South Carolinians from the dangers they bring to our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs. “We are thankful for the efforts of our local, county, and federal law enforcement partners, whose tireless work dismantled Charles Butler’s drug trafficking ring.”
“Drug trafficking is a serious offense that has far-reaching consequences for individuals, families and communities,” said Steve Jensen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Columbia Field Office. “With this sentence, it is our hope that Myrtle Beach residents can better enjoy life knowing that another drug dealer and another illegally possessed gun is off the streets. The FBI and its law enforcement partners remain committed to fostering an environment where illegal drug activities have no place.”
“Thanks to our resources, collaborative efforts and the work of our local partners, another dangerous criminal is off the streets,” said Brennan Cavanagh, Public Information Officer, Horry County Sheriff’s Office. “We continue to take proactive measures to protect the community from illegal drugs.”
“This was a major investigation into a case that directly impacted our local community. Our team received numerous complaints about the activities Mr. Butler was engaging in and about the results of those activities. Our team and our community wanted to see justice served,” said Corporal Christopher Starling, Public Information Officer, Myrtle Beach Police Department. “We are appreciative of the partnerships we have with our federal and local law enforcement agencies that led to this result. Myrtle Beach Police Department will continue to fight to make sure individuals that bring this poison into our community are held accountable and are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Butler to 123 months in prison, to be followed by a 6-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Myrtle Beach Police Department, and Horry County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Flynn prosecuted the case.
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Missouri Man Sentenced for Unemployment Insurance, Home Depot FraudsRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp on Monday sentenced a man from Ste. Genevieve County to 34 months in prison for defrauding both Home Depot and Missouri’s unemployment insurance program.
Arthur Grass, 36, was also ordered to repay $207,000. Grass filed false unemployment claims for about 10 people beginning in May of 2020, claiming that the employees had been laid off from his construction company, AJE Construction. Grass cashed out the unemployment benefits, which had been placed on debit cards, and kicked some money back to the purported “workers” who had voluntarily provided him their personal information to use in the scheme. In all, the fraud reaped $142,423, including money from supplemental COVID-19 pandemic unemployment benefits.
Grass also admitted defrauding Home Depot on multiple occasions by filling a cart with boxes of vinyl flooring and showing employees a fraudulent receipt claiming that he’d paid for the flooring online. Grass then sold the flooring on Facebook. Charging documents say he stole about 468 boxes of flooring that way from Home Depot stores in St. Louis and St. Louis County from Jan. 5, 2023 through Feb. 6, 2023.
“Arthur Grass conspired to defraud the Missouri Division of Employment Security (MODES) by filing fraudulent unemployment insurance (UI) claims which caused MODES to pay more than $140,000 in benefits,” said Irene Lindow, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to safeguard the UI system from those who seek to exploit these benefit programs.”
Grass was arrested on March 31, 2022 by St. Charles County police investigating catalytic converter thefts. His Jeep was in a storage lot with Grass inside. Police later found a stolen Glock 9mm pistol in a toolbox in the Jeep. Grass is a convicted felon and barred from possessing a firearm.
Grass pleaded guilty in May to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, one count of conspiracy to steal money from the United States (unemployment benefits) and one count of wire fraud.
The case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the St. Charles County Police Department, the Missouri Department of Labor, the Arnold Police Department, the St. Louis County Police Department and Home Depot Retail Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Ware is prosecuting the case.
Missouri Man Pleads Guilty to Interstate Marijuana ShipmentRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — David Agustus McGowan, 63, of Kansas City, Missouri, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana that was shipped from Fresno to Kansas City, Missouri, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in November 2018, McGowan’s co-defendants Patrick Maldonado, 47, of Madera; Elias Zambrano Jr., 43, of Fresno; Tan Minh Vo, 50, of San Jose; Tien Van Phan, 58, of Milpitas; and Halen Frazier, 37, of Kingsville, Missouri, coordinated the shipment of nearly 500 pounds of marijuana to Frazier in Kansas City. The first shipment was seized from Frazier during a traffic stop after Phan delivered 92 pounds of marijuana to him in two suitcases at a hotel in Kansas City.
Later, agents intercepted calls between Maldonado, Zambrano, and Frazier in which they discussed the shipment of another load of marijuana to Frazier in Kansas City. That load was intercepted by Arizona troopers after stopping McGowan for a broken taillight on his truck. During a search of the trailer, troopers found in a hidden compartment 384 pounds of marijuana and $1,629 in cash.
McGowan’s co-defendants previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced as follows:
- Maldonado, who also conspired to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, was sentenced to seven years in custody.
- Zambrano and Frazier were sentenced to two years and three months in prison.
- Vo was sentenced to three years and one month in prison.
- Phan was sentenced to three years and six months in prison.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Central Valley High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force consisting of agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Tulare, Kings, and Fresno County Sheriff’s Offices, and the Fresno Police Department. The Arizona Department of Health and the Kansas City Police Department assisted in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.
McGowan is scheduled for sentencing on Dec. 4, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Ana de Alba. McGowan faces a minimum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years in prison, along with a $5 million fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Michigan Man Sentenced to 8 ½ Years in Prison for Robbing Ann Arbor Store in Broad DaylightRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A federal judge sentenced Michigan resident Deon Bell today for robbing a T-Mobile store in downtown Ann Arbor, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced.
Ison was joined in the announcement by James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF).
On October 10, 2022, Deon Bell, 27, of Detroit, Michigan, walked into a T-Mobile store in downtown Ann Arbor in the middle of the afternoon. He pulled out what appeared to be a gun and demanded that the two young employees take him to the safe, where he stole approximately $9,000 in smartphones and smartwatches. Bell also demanded the money from the register, stealing an additional $381. Before leaving the store, Bell told the employees to “have a blessed day.” But little did Bell know that the employees were a step ahead and gave him a decoy or tracker phone along with real merchandise, allowing law enforcement to track Bell from the T-Mobile to the store where he resold the goods.
This was just the most recent conviction for Bell, who has a long criminal history: drug dealing, carrying a concealed weapon, and criminal sexual conduct 3rd degree, among others. U.S. District Court Judge Nancy G. Edmunds sentenced Bell to 8 ½ years in prison, his longest sentence to date.
“Violence has no place in our community,” U.S. Attorney Ison said. “Pulling a gun on people just trying to make a living is a cowardly act, and our office is committed to taking dangerous people off the streets.”
“Mr. Bell’s violent behavior has no place in our community. Actions have consequences. Period. End of story. The moral of this story is: Use an illegal firearm to commit violent acts, and you should pack your bags for a very long and hopefully “blessed” stay in prison,” said Special Agent in Charge James Deir.
This case was investigated by agents from ATF and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meghan Bean, Erin Ramamurthy, and Hank Moon. This investigation started with the Ann Arbor Police Department and Michigan State Police, who remained valuable partners throughout this case. We thank them for their teamwork and assistance.Mexican National Residing in Kern County Sentenced to over 5 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Ana Margarita Valdez-Torres, 43, a Mexican national residing in McFarland, was sentenced today to five years and 10 months in prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Valdez was involved in obtaining and supplying methamphetamine to drug customers steered to her by Pedro Delgado-Montenegro, a fugitive in this case who previously resided in Porterville. One month after Valdez’s involvement in the drug transactions in this case, she was arrested and convicted in Las Vegas for transporting 22 pounds of methamphetamine.
Valdez pleaded guilty to the charge on April 3, 2023. Seven co-defendants have pleaded guilty to drug trafficking offenses. Charges are pending against Delgado-Montenegro. The charges against him are only allegations; he is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Porterville Police Department, the Coalinga Police Department, and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Merced County Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Otoniel Cardenas-Torres, 33, of Delhi, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute heroin, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Cardenas received $13,500 from a confidential source for the delivery of 3 pounds of heroin to the confidential source by Cardenas’s brother. The heroin deal had been arranged by a Mexican source of drug supply, who orchestrated a string of heroin transactions through couriers, including co-defendants Robert Palacios-Garcia, 38, of Huntington Park; Daniel Quiroz, 41, of Los Angeles; and Juan Medina, 29, of Manteca.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.
Cardenas is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on Dec. 11, 2023. Cardenas faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, a mandatory minimum prison term of 10 years, and a $10 million fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Co-defendants Palacios-Garcia and Quiroz previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced to seven years and three months in prison and three years and one month in prison, respectively. Juan Medina is scheduled for sentencing on Oct. 2, 2023.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Major Generic Drug Companies to Pay over Quarter of a Billion Dollars to Resolve Price-Fixing Charges and Divest Key Drug at the Center of Their ConspiracyRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today deferred prosecution agreements resolving criminal antitrust charges against Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. and Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA. As part of those agreements, both companies will divest a key business line involved in the misconduct, and as an additional remedial measure, Teva will make a $50 million drug donation to humanitarian organizations. Teva will pay a $225 million criminal penalty — the largest to date for a domestic antitrust cartel — and Glenmark will pay a $30 million criminal penalty. Both companies will face prosecution if they violate the terms of the agreements, and if convicted, would likely face mandatory debarment from federal health care programs.
The agreements each require the companies to undertake remedial measures, including the timely divestiture of their respective drug lines for pravastatin, a widely used cholesterol medicine that was a core part of the companies’ price-fixing conspiracy. This extraordinary remedy forces the companies to divest a business line that was central to the misconduct. Teva must also donate $50 million worth of clotrimazole and tobramycin, two additional drugs with prices affected by Teva’s criminal schemes, to humanitarian organizations that provide medication to Americans in need. Both Teva and Glenmark have agreed, among other things, to cooperate with the department in the ongoing criminal investigations and resulting prosecutions, report to the department on their compliance programs, and modify those compliance programs where necessary and appropriate.
“Today, the Antitrust Division and our law enforcement partners hold two more pharmaceutical companies accountable for raising prices of essential medicines and depriving Americans of affordable access to prescription drugs. The resolutions include extraordinary remedial measures that require the breakup of assets and restore competition to the industry,” said Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department's Antitrust Division. “Companies in heavily regulated industries are on notice that the division will not hesitate to hold them accountable and will not tolerate recidivism.”
“The Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division, along with our other federal law enforcement partners, secured a victory with today’s settlement agreement in our fight against price-fixing and collusion,” said Executive Special Agent in Charge Kenneth Cleevely of the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG). “The USPS-OIG will vigorously investigate those who would engage in harmful anticompetitive practices, and we continue to ask for the public’s assistance in identifying and reporting those engaged in this type of activity.”
“The FBI works relentlessly with our partners to investigate crimes that violate our nation’s long-held principles of fair competition,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “Today’s agreements show that we are committed to ensuring that entities that engage in price-fixing, bid-rigging and market-allocation schemes to the detriment of the American people face justice.”
As part of the agreements, Teva admitted to participating in three antitrust conspiracies that affected essential medicines — including pravastatin, clotrimazole and tobramycin — and Glenmark admitted to participating in a conspiracy to fix the price of pravastatin. Pravastatin is a commonly prescribed cholesterol medication that lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke; clotrimazole is commonly prescribed to treat skin infections; and tobramycin is commonly prescribed to treat eye infections and cystic fibrosis. Also as part of the agreements, the parties today filed joint motions, which are subject to approval by the Court, to defer prosecution and trial on the filed charges for the three-year terms of the agreements or until after the criminal penalties are paid, whichever occurs later.
During the multi-year investigation, the Antitrust Division and its law enforcement partners uncovered price-fixing, bid-rigging and market-allocation schemes affecting many generic medicines, and charged seven generic pharmaceutical companies for their participation in the schemes. With today’s agreements, all seven companies have resolved their criminal charges and collectively agreed to pay more than $681 million in criminal penalties.
In June 2020, Glenmark was charged with one count of price fixing for its role in a conspiracy affecting the prices of pravastatin and other generic drugs. A grand jury returned a superseding indictment against Glenmark and Teva in August 2020 for the same and similar conduct. Count one alleged that Teva conspired with Glenmark, Apotex Corp. and others to increase prices for pravastatin and other generic drugs. Apotex admitted its role in this conspiracy and agreed to pay a $24.1 million penalty in May 2020. Count two charged Teva for its role in a conspiracy with Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A. Inc., its former executive Ara Aprahamian and others to increase prices, rig bids and allocate customers of generic drugs, including clotrimazole, a medicine used to treat skin infections. Taro admitted to its role in this conspiracy and agreed to pay a $205.7 million penalty to resolve that charge in July 2020. Aprahamian was indicted in February 2020 and is awaiting trial. Count three charged Teva for its role in a conspiracy with Sandoz Inc. and others to increase prices, rig bids and allocate customers of generic medicines, including cystic fibrosis medicine tobramycin. A former Sandoz executive pleaded guilty for his participation in the conspiracy in February 2020. Sandoz admitted to its role in the conspiracy and agreed to pay a $195 million penalty in March 2020. Together, these charges and the resolutions announced today reflect the Department’s commitment to holding corporate offenders responsible even where collateral consequences may be at issue.
United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, the FBI’s Washington and Philadelphia Field Offices and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Matthew Lunder, Thomas Tynan, Michael Sawers and Barry Joyce of the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal I Section and Assistant Chief Mark Grundvig and Trial Attorney Julia Maloney of the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal II Section are prosecuting the cases, with the assistance of Antitrust Division Economists Evan Gee and Peter Woodward and Financial Analyst Joanne Legomsky.
Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.
DPA - Teva DPA - GlenmarkLocal Task Forces Crack Down on Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Distribution NetworksRead the Press Release
BOISE – Two multi-faceted, large-scale Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigations have resulted in the federal indictments of 25 defendants on drug trafficking and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. Seventeen indictments were issued over the last several months by federal grand juries sitting in Idaho along with an additional indictment in the District of Oregon.
According to the indictments, the defendants distributed large amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl throughout Southwestern Idaho and Eastern Oregon. Many of the individuals are alleged to have been in possession of firearms at the time they distributed the narcotics. During the course of these investigations and arrests, law enforcement seized approximately 98 pounds of methamphetamine, approximately 21,000 fentanyl pills, 531 grams of fentanyl powder, 38 firearms, 3 bullet-proof vests, and $121,615 in U.S. currency. According to court records, it is alleged that several of these individuals are associated with local street gangs with ties to the Jalisco Nuevo Generation Cartel.
As part of these two OCDETF investigations, the following individuals have been charged with federal drug and gun violations:
- Sergio Cisneros-Guzman a/k/a Salamon Hernandez-Medina, residing in Nampa, Idaho, was indicted on seven counts of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of maintaining a drug-involved premise;
- Efren Avilez-Lopez, residing in Ontario, Oregon, was indicted for distributing 25 pounds of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute 21 pounds of methamphetamine;
- Maria Medina-Zeveda, residing in Ontario, Oregon, was indicted for distributing 35 pounds of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute 21 pounds of methamphetamine;
- Efren Alexander Avilez-Pacheco, residing in Ontario, Oregon, was indicted on possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime. Avilez-Pacheco, a Mexican national, is also facing violations of terms of his supervised release stemming from a 2019 federal drug trafficking conviction and his subsequent deportation to Mexico;
- Owenn Mitchell, of Salem, Oregon, was indicted on two counts of aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine;
- Zach Vitale, of Idaho Falls, was indicted on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl;
- Cheyanne Juarez, of Ontario, Oregon, was indicted on one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
- Jason Castillo, of Nampa, was indicted on one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
- Shaunda Buffi, of Caldwell, was indicted on one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
- Robert Glenn, of Nampa, was indicted on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
- Anthony Lopez, of Caldwell, was indicted on one count of unlawful possession of a firearm;
- Megan Mackey, of Caldwell, was indicted on one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
- Breana Rojas, of Caldwell, was indicted on one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
- Rigoverto Hernandez, of Caldwell, was indicted on one count of aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl;
- Bonifacio Nichiolas-Ruiz, of Caldwell, was indicted on one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
- Andrew Walthall, of Kuna, was indicted on one count of unlawful possession of a firearm and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl;
- Jose Pedraza, of Meridian, was indicted on one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
- Sonya Trujillo, of Boise, was indicted on one count of aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine; and
- Michael McClain, of Boise, was indicted on one count of distribution of methamphetamine;
In addition to these indictments, Tracy Nunes, of Payette, was indicted on two counts of distribution of methamphetamine by a grand jury in the District of Oregon.
The OCDETF investigations also included several other defendants who were charged earlier with federal drug and gun violations:
- Isaac Bright pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm and, on February 14, 2023, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison. Bright was a documented member of Latin Kings gang with an extensive criminal history.
- Jordan Khan pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and, on March 14, 2023, was sentenced to 98 months in federal prison.
- Paul Almaraz pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine and is set for sentencing on September 25, 2023.
- Robert Chase pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm and is set for sentencing on August 31, 2023.
- Cesar Javier Avila-Molina pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and is set for sentencing on November 1, 2023.
Drug distribution charges carry mandatory minimum prison sentences depending on the amount and type of drugs distributed. Maximum prison sentences range from up to 20 years to life in prison. Unlawful possession of a firearm carries a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison.
“It is important for the public to know that federal, state, and local law enforcement are proactively working to dismantle drug trafficking enterprises in the Treasure Valley and elsewhere in Idaho,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “The results of these investigations is a testament to the extremely strong partnerships we have in Idaho, which include working with partners in Oregon and elsewhere as needed. These cases send a strong message that Idaho is not open for the drug business.”
“These cases are a prime example of what law enforcement can accomplish when we pool our resources and work together,” said Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI. “There is no doubt that potentially countless number of lives were saved in the Treasure Valley because of the dismantling of these drug trafficking organizations. The FBI is committed to keeping all Idahoans safe.”
“The Jalisco Cartel is one of the main cartels responsible for the influx of methamphetamine and fentanyl into our communities,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Matthew Gomm, who oversees operations in Idaho. “The relationships these cartels have with our local street gangs allow deadly and dangerous drugs to reach their last mile of distribution. These indictments are a testament to DEA’s unwavering commitment to make our communities safe and healthy through collaboration with our local, state, and federal partners.”
“It is my hope the announcement of these indictments will help bring some clarity to the enormity of the dangers our citizens and law enforcement face on a daily basis by the increased criminality of Transcontinental Criminal Organizations (TCO’s) in our communities,” said Canyon County Sheriff, Kieran Donahue. “The danger of an unprecedented supply and distribution of deadly drugs like “street” fentanyl is real, NOT imagined. I applaud the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho for their commitment to prosecute cases of this magnitude and for the support of our FBI Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crime and Gang Task Force and the investigators assigned to that team. We cannot, and will not, defeat these criminal organizations without strong collaboration and the force-multiplier approach of law enforcement partners.”
“The City of Caldwell and the Treasure Valley are a safer place now due to the collaborative efforts and relentless pursuit of justice exemplified by our brave men and women who defend the United States Constitution and enforce the rule of law,” said Caldwell Police Chief Rex Ingram. “I am proud of their unwavering selfless sacrifice and dedication to keeping Idaho safe.”
“Today’s announcement represents a significant step towards a safer society,” said Lieutenant Colonel Sheldon Kelley, Deputy Director Chief of Operations at the Idaho State Police. “The synergistic endeavors of the U.S. Attorney, law enforcement, and many community partners highlight the extraordinary results that arise from collaborative and unwavering teamwork. Together, we are resolute in our mission to secure our communities and eradicate drug and firearm-related criminal pursuits.”
“These cases are another great example of local law enforcement working with our federal partners on a common goal,” said Nampa Police Department Interim Chief Curt Shankel. “We work to make our state, city, and neighborhoods safe, and to get these dealers off our streets. Thank you to the United States Attorney’s Office for their dedication to these cases.”
“The Ontario Police Department, in partnership with the High Desert Drug Task Force, is committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to disrupt and dismantle illegal trafficking and use of drugs in and around the city of Ontario,” said Police Chief Michael Iwai.
The cases were primarily investigated by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force, which is led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. In addition to the work of the Metro Violent Crimes Task Force and the DEA, U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked the following agencies for assisting in the investigations and arrests of the above named individuals: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Caldwell Police Department, City and County Narcotics Unit, the Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, the Nampa Police Department, the Gem County Sheriff’s Office, the Idaho State Police, Idaho Department of Correction, the Owyhee County Sheriff’s Office, the Owyhee County Prosecutors Office, the Canyon County Prosecutor’s Office, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), the Malheur County Sherriff’s Office, the Ontario Police Department, the Oregon State Police, and the High Desert Drug Task Force in Oregon.
Both the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force and the High Desert Task Force focus on local violent crime and gang activity and are comprised of federal, state, and local agencies. These cases are being prosecuted by several Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the Districts of Idaho and Oregon, and the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes.
The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit expressed his gratitude to all the law enforcement agencies and prosecutors for supporting the individual prosecutors and task force investigators who are achieving justice through their hard work.
An indictment is merely an allegation or a set of allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
These indictments are part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Anyone with information about violent crime or illegal activity can call (208) 344-7843.
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Leader of International Steroids Distribution Scheme Sentenced to Eight Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – August 21, 2023
SAN DIEGO – James Charles Rivera of New York was sentenced in federal court today to 96 months in prison for leading a scheme to distribute steroids around the world and launder the substantial proceeds through cash and cryptocurrency.
According to admissions in his plea agreement, Rivera operated on the “dark web” with the moniker, “JuicePal.” He arranged and directed the distribution of steroids in nearly every state in the United States, as well as to Canada, Germany, Australia, and countries in the United Kingdom and the European Union from 2018 to 2021. He used encrypted communications and internet-access methods to avoid detection and took in millions of dollars in virtual currency and cash as proceeds from thousands of sales.
Rivera also worked with several co-conspirators in the United States, who were responsible for manufacturing steroids for him, shipping them to customers, receiving cash payments, and forwarding him proceeds. Rivera, a United States Citizen, ran this operation for years while living abroad.
“This defendant thought he could hide his international steroid distribution network and money laundering by operating on the dark web, but we have shined a bright light on his crimes,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden.
“This lengthy sentence is the result of an investigation into a complex global illicit counterfeit steroid production and distribution network that spanned several years, which concluded with the dismantlement of both the known U.S. and British networks of operation,” said Chad Plantz, Special Agent in Charge for HSI San Diego. “The egregious criminal conspiracy attempted to utilize encrypted communications, cryptocurrencies, and an elaborate network of co-conspirators to obfuscate operational activity in the U.S. and abroad. I thank the several federal partners that came together to support HSI, most notably U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Food and Drug Administration to dismantle these operations.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to identifying, investigating and disrupting these criminal organizations to protect our communities from the distribution of these dangerous drugs through our postal system,” said Carroll Harris, Postal Inspector in Charge of the Los Angeles Division.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Owen Roth.
DEFENDANTS Case Number 21-CR-3382 AJB
James Charles Rivera Age: 32 New York
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Drug Trafficking Conspiracy – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(E), and 846
Maximum Penalties: Ten years in prison, and a $500,000 fine
Money Laundering Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1956(h)
Maximum Penalties: Twenty years in prison, and the greater of $500,000 or twice the amount of loss
AGENCIES
Homeland Security Investigations
U.S. Postal Inspection Service
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle, and prosecute high-level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.
Leader of Gun Trafficking Ring Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A Detroit resident was sentenced to 7 years and 10 months in prison for his role in a firearm trafficking ring, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced today.
Ison was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge James Deir, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Detroit Division.
Antonio Jackson, age 24, received the sentence from the Honorable Mark A. Goldsmith, United States District Judge, in Detroit, Michigan. Judge Goldsmith also ordered that the defendant serve 3 years on supervised release after his release from federal custody.
At his guilty plea, Jackson admitted that he, along with two co-defendants, was a leader of a scheme in which the group used stolen credit card information to buy firearms online, which were then shipped to local firearm retailers for pickup. They enlisted several straw purchasers to pick up firearms. To get the firearms, the straw purchasers were directed to lie on the required ATF paperwork.
In total, Jackson admitted that the group illegally obtained at least 55 firearms through the scheme. Several of the firearms have been recovered by law enforcement, including some recovered from convicted felons.
Five of the straw purchasers involved in the trafficking ring have already pleaded guilty and were sentenced as follows:
- Garcia Moses, age 26 of Detroit: 54 months’ prison
- Emmanuel Stevens, age 23 of Detroit: 46 months’ prison
- Donte Turner, age 27 of Mt. Clemens: 30 months’ prison
- Eshon Rose, age 24 of Redford Charter Township: 18 months’ prison
“My office is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of convicted felons and will aggressively prosecute not just the leaders of these gun trafficking organizations, but also the straw purchasers that make these schemes possible. Lying when buying a gun for someone else is a serious crime that deserves just punishments like these.” U.S. Attorney Ison said.
“Accountability matters. Jackson and his able-bodied band of co-conspirators represent the worst of the worst in our community. They are nothing more than common-day thugs who put personal greed before the safety of our community. In my experience,” said Special Agent
in Charge James Deir, “these folks represent the most deserving candidates for Federal prosecution. In the end, they’ll have a lot of time to reflect on their wrongdoing.”
One of the other leaders, Mike Chahoua, 25 of Detroit, pleaded guilty and faces sentencing on September 26, 2023. James Jackson, age 25 of Detroit, one of the straw purchasers, has also pleaded guilty and faces sentencing on September 28, 2023.
Charges remain pending against Chauncey Williams, 23, of Detroit, the third leader of the group, and Bishop Allen, age 26, of Detroit, another straw purchaser. They are set for jury trial at a later date. An indictment is only a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Ramamurthy and Andrew R. Picek.
Lawrence Rudolph Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Murdering His Wife in ZambiaRead the Press Release
DENVER –The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Lawrence Rudolph, 68, formerly of Paradise Valley, Arizona, was sentenced to life in prison for murder. Rudolph will also serve a concurrent sentence of 20 years for defrauding multiple life insurance companies, pay $4,877,744.93 in restitution, a fine of $2,000,000, and a $200 special assessment. He was also ordered to forfeit assets obtained as a result of his crime. After a trial last summer, a jury convicted Rudolph of foreign murder and a mail fraud scheme that was perpetrated in Colorado and elsewhere.
Evidence presented at trial proved beyond a reasonable doubt that Lawrence Rudolph murdered his wife Bianca while the two were on a hunting trip in Zambia on October 11, 2016. Rudolph shot his wife through the heart with a 12-gauge shotgun that was enclosed in a soft-shell case on the last day of a scheduled hunt, scheming to make the murder look like an accident. Upon his return to the United States, Rudolph filed fraudulent claims on nine separate life insurance policies issued by seven different companies to obtain $4,877,744.93.
“This result shows that no matter how much money, prestige, or power you have, you will be held accountable for your crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan. “The fact that justice arrived today is no accident. It was part of a dedicated effort by public servants committed to the cause of justice. We are grateful to the attorneys, staff, and investigators who made today’s result possible.”
“The defendant in this case thought he could murder his wife overseas and get away with it. He was wrong and will now be held accountable for his actions thanks to the relentless pursuit of justice by the dedicated men and women of the FBI, DOJ, and the family of Bianca Rudolph, who never lost faith in the judicial system,” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek.
United States Senior District Judge William J. Martinez presided over the sentencing. Rudolph’s co-defendant, Lori Milliron, was previously sentenced to 17 years in federal prison for her role as an accessory to the murder, for obstructing the investigation into Rudolph’s crime, and for committing perjury before a grand jury.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the FBI Denver Division. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bryan Fields, Garreth Winstead, and Bishop Grewell. Forfeiture proceedings are being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kurt Bohn.
The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance.
Case Number: 22-cr-00012-WJM-1
Justice Department Awards $375,000 to Area Foundation to Prevent and Reduce Violent Crime in Baton RougeRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. announced that TRUCE has received $375,000 from the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs and its component, Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention.
TRUCE, a prosecutor-led nonprofit entity, was formed to address ongoing, collaborative crime reduction efforts within areas in East Baton Rouge Parish by developing and deploying community-based group violence intervention and focused deterrence strategies. TRUCE laid the groundwork and formed the core public safety partnerships that have become a vital component in EBR's public safety ecosystem.
With this grant, TRUCE will enhance the framework to build out and sustain more intensive and effective community-based public safety partnerships in East Baton Rouge Parish.
For more information about this award, please contact the OJP Office of Communications at 202-307-0703 or [email protected].
Jury Convicts Binghamton Felon and Escapee of Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
UTICA, NEW YORK – On Friday evening, a jury voted to convict Charles Harrison, age 34, of Binghamton, New York, of being a felon in possession of a firearm, following a 4-day trial in Utica, New York.
United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and United States Marshal for the Northern District of New York David L. McNulty made the announcement.
The trial evidence demonstrated that, following his 2012 conviction in the Northern District of New York for Conspiracy to Possess and Distribute controlled substances, Harrison was serving the final portion of his term of imprisonment at a halfway house in Connecticut. Harrison absconded from the halfway house, resulting in a warrant being issued for his arrest for Escaping the Custody of the Attorney General. On March 29, 2022, the United States Marshals Service Regional Fugitive Task Force found Harrison hiding under a mattress in an apartment in Binghamton, New York. The Marshals also located a loaded gun in the bedroom next to where Harrison was hiding. Forensic and testimonial evidence presented at trial linked Harrison to the gun that was in the apartment, and the jury voted to convict him of possessing the gun as a prohibited person (previously convicted felon).
At sentencing scheduled for December 20, 2023, before United States District Judge David N. Hurd, Harrison faces a maximum sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to three years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the United States Marshalls Service with assistance from the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), New York State Police, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office, and the Binghamton Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica N. Carbone and Thomas R. Sutcliffe.
Investigators seeking potential victims of Georgia man charged with sexual exploitation of childrenRead the Press Release
Homeland Security InvestigationsBRUNSWICK, GA: A Georgia man has been indicted on multiple child exploitation charges, and investigators are seeking information from individuals who might have had prior contact with the defendant.
Todd Eric Sisk, 48, of Baxley, Ga., is charged via federal indictment with Attempted Production of Child Pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence upon conviction of 15 years in prison, up to 30. He also is charged with Distribution of Child Pornography, Possession of Child Pornography, and Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
“We are committed to protecting our most vulnerable citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “In collaboration with our law enforcement partners, we will strive to keep our children and our communities safe.”
After initiating an investigation into suspicious online activity in November 2021, the Walton County, Fla., Sheriff’s Office identified Sisk as a suspect and contacted investigators from Homeland Security Investigations in Savannah for assistance.
HSI investigators found suspected child sexual abuse material on Sisk’s cell phone and in online applications. Sisk was indicted on federal charges in July, and currently is in custody awaiting further court proceedings.
Sisk works as a truck driver with regular routes to Atlanta and Charleston, with occasional trips to Alabama and Tennessee. He previously lived in Ohio and in multiple locations in Florida and Georgia. HSI investigators are seeking information from anyone who might have had contact with Sisk. Those with information are asked to call the HSI Tip Line at 866-347-2423.
An indictment contains only charges, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Walton County, Fla., Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Baxley Police Department, and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorney and Project Safe Childhood Coordinator Jason W. Blanchard.
Houston oil trader charged in international bribery schemeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 49-year-old Texas man and former employee for Vitol Inc. is set to appear in federal court for allegedly conspiring to violate the anti-bribery provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and for allegedly violating the FCPA, the Travel Act and the money laundering statutes in connection with a scheme involving Mexican government officials.
Javier Aguilar is expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Yvonne Ho in Houston at 2 p.m. today.
The five-count indictment, returned Aug. 3, alleges Aguilar was a former manager and oil trader for Vitol Inc., the U.S. affiliate of the Vitol group of companies which together form one of the largest energy trading firms in the world. The former employee allegedly agreed with others to bribe Mexican officials in order to win business advantages related to contracts with the Mexican government instrumentality, PEMEX Procurement International (PPI). He is also charged with money laundering in connection with the scheme.
Between August 2017 and July 2020, the charges allege Aguilar and others knowingly, willfully and corruptly offered and paid bribes to and for the benefit of Mexican officials. He allegedly intended to obtain and retain business for Vitol related to Petróleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), a state-owned oil company of Mexico, and PPI, a wholly-owned and controlled subsidiary of PEMEX with its principal place of business in Houston.
Aguilar allegedly met with procurement managers at PPI between September 2017 and April 2018 and agreed to pay bribes for confidential, inside information to assist Vitol in winning business from PPI, including a contract to supply ethane to PEMEX through PPI. In particular, Aguilar allegedly agreed to make payments totaling approximately $600,000 in order to assist Vitol in winning the ethane contract.
To promote the bribery scheme and to conceal the proceeds derived from it, Aguilar and his co-conspirators caused the bribes to be paid through a series of transactions and shell companies, according to the charges.
Aguilar is charged with violating the FCPA and conspiracy to do so, which both carry a possible five-year-federal prison sentence as does a conviction of violation of the Travel Act. If convicted of either of the two money laundering charges, he could receive up to 20 years in prison.
The FBI’s International Corruption Unit - Miami Field Office conducted the investigation.
Deputy Chief Suzanne Elmilady and Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Sherin Daniel for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case along with Assistant Chiefs Derek Ettinger and Jon Robell and Trial Attorney Clayton Solomon of the Fraud Section of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Deputy Chief Adam Schwartz and Trial Attorney D. Hunter Smith from the Money Laundering and Asset Forfeiture Section with assistance from AUSAs Jonathan P. Lax and Matthew R. Galeotti from the Eastern District of New York.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Henderson Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More than 15 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Henderson man was sentenced Friday to 188 months in prison for trafficking fentanyl and heroin. On May 4, 2023, Tyren Omarious Hargrove, 23, pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin and fentanyl.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, after receiving information that Hargrove was involved in drug trafficking, law enforcement oversaw multiple controlled purchases of suspected heroin from Hargrove. In June 2022, agents also executed a search warrant at Hargrove’s residence in Henderson where they recovered more than 4,000 dosage units of heroin and fentanyl, oxycodone, and nearly $55,000.
“The outcome of today’s sentencing is the result of a collaborative effort of local, state, and federal resources,” said Henderson Police Chief Marcus Barrow. “Our partnerships are focused on the betterment of our community. I’m hopeful that our community feels the impact of today’s announcement and many others that will be forthcoming.”
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Henderson Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey L. Peaden 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. 5:22-CR-00173-FL.
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Guilty on All Counts, Jury Convicts Fort Duchesne Man for 2018 MurderRead the Press Release
Salt Lake City, Utah – On August 18, 2023, a federal jury convicted a Utah man of murder in the second degree and other related charges. After a five-day trial, Brandon Redfoot was found guilty on all five counts charged in the indictment. Charges include murder in the second degree while within Indian Country, assault with a dangerous weapon while within Indian Country, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and two counts of discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
According to court documents and the evidence presented at trial, Brandon Redfoot, 28, of Fort Duchesne, Utah, shot and killed another man, on June 7, 2018. According to testimony at trial, Redfoot was in a physical altercation with the victim outside a store in Randlett, Utah. After the fight, and after the two men parted ways in separate vehicles, Redfoot told the driver of the vehicle he was in to turn around and drive back in the direction the victim had traveled. After the driver refused, Redfoot pulled out a firearm, later identified as a KelTec Sub-2000 9mm folding rifle, and threatened the driver to turn around by firing the gun inside the vehicle. The driver complied, and ultimately arrived outside a residence where Redfoot spotted the victim. Redfoot fired at least twenty-nine shots in the direction of the victim and others, ultimately hitting the victim in the back of the head and killing him. Redfoot faces a maximum statutory sentence of imprisonment of up to life.
FBISentencing is scheduled for October 27, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. in courtroom 3.4 before U.S. District Court Judge Clark Waddoups at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.
U.S. Attorney, Trina A. Higgins for the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Vernal Resident Agency and investigators from the Ute Tribe.
FBI
Assistant United States Attorneys Michael J. Thorpe and Sam Pead of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah presented the case at trial.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.
Gang Members Convicted of Murder, Federal Racketeering, and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
A federal jury in Macon, Georgia, convicted three members of the Gangster Disciples – a national gang with a long history of lawlessness and violence – on Aug. 17 in connection with the murder of three people, as well as various other offenses including drug trafficking, obstruction of justice, and firearm charges.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Philmon Deshawn Chambers, aka Dolla Phil, 34, of Atlanta, who was a Chief Enforcer for the State of Georgia; Andrea Paige Browner, aka Light Brite, aka Drea, aka Shawty, 28, of Athens, Georgia; and Lesley Chappell Green, aka Grip, 35, of Stone Mountain, Georgia, were responsible for three gang-related murders triggered by the murder of a Gangster Disciple member. After that murder, other Gangster Disciples allegedly sought to identify and retaliate against those responsible for the victim’s death. Chambers followed Rodriguez Apollo Rucker to his Athens residence where he shot and killed Rucker, who was a relative of a suspect of the first murder.
“These defendants placed the Gangster Disciples’ rule of revenge above the rule of law. Their days of violence in the name of the Gangster Disciples are now over,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “As this case demonstrates, outstanding cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement is vital to dismantling violent criminal enterprises and keeping our communities safe. The Justice Department will not waiver in its commitment to protecting victims of violent crime.”
After learning that police suspected Chambers of Rucker’s murder, Chambers and Browner fled from Georgia to Texas. To cover up this crime and protect the gang, Chambers ordered that fellow gang members he suspected of cooperating with law enforcement, Derrick Ruff and Joshua Jackson, be killed. Green, along with Shabazz Larry Guidry, aka Lil L, aka L, aka Lil Bro, aka Lil Larry, 28, of Decatur, Georgia, and Robert Maurice Carlisle, aka Different, 34, of Lithonia, Georgia, shot and killed Ruff and Jackson and left their bodies in a storage unit in Lawrenceville, Georgia, where they were discovered four months later.
“Philmon Chambers, Andrea Browner and Lesley Green were Gangster Disciples who engaged in a pattern of violent criminal activity for years, to include three heinous murders; now, justice has been served,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary for the Middle District of Georgia. “Violent gangs, intimidation and murder have no place in our lawful society, and I commend the federal, state and local partners who worked so closely to solve this case of exceptional complexity.”
“Chambers, Browner, and Green are responsible for gang-related acts of murder, retaliation, and other destructive crimes,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI’s Safe Streets Task Forces are the front line of our efforts protecting communities across the country from violent gangs like the Gangster Disciples. I commend the members of the Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force led by the FBI Athens Resident Agency, as well as our partners in Athens and Gwinnett Counties, for ensuring these violent criminals are taken off the streets of Georgia.”
The jury convicted Chambers, Browner, and Green of racketeer influenced and corrupt organization (RICO) conspiracy. The jury also convicted Chambers and Browner of violent crime in aid of racketeering (VICAR) murder and federal firearm offenses related to murder. Sentencing has not yet been scheduled. Chamber and Browner face a mandatory minimum penalty of life in prison. Green faces a statutory penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Carlisle and Guidry previously pleaded guilty to RICO conspiracy.
The FBI Atlanta Field Office, Athens Resident Agency Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, and Gwinnett County Police Department investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Ken Kaplan of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison for the Middle District of Georgia are prosecuting the case.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Justice Department’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.
Fourth defendant convicted in conspiracy to steal aircraft design secretsRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: A California man has been found guilty at trial for his role in a conspiracy to steal aircraft design and testing information in a plot to shorten the regulatory approval process for another company’s aircraft technology.
Juan Martinez, 53, of Yorba Linda, California, was convicted after a five-day trial in U.S. District Court in Savannah on one count of Conspiracy to Steal Trade Secrets, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. The conviction subjects Martinez to a statutory penalty of up to 10 years in prison, along with substantial financial penalties and restitution, and up to three years of supervised release upon completion of any prison term.
There is no parole in the federal system.
“The conspirators in this case schemed to abuse a position of trust inside a major company in the Southern District of Georgia in order to steal proprietary engineering information to provide an unfair advantage to competing products,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “We commend the hard work of our law enforcement partners in bringing this investigation and prosecution to a successful conclusion.”
As the evidence showed at trial, Martinez was a contractor who worked as a technical lead for a small aeronautics company. He and the other co-conspirators schemed to steal proprietary trade secret information from a large aircraft company for use in developing and marketing their own technology, with the intent to market and sell that technology to the true owner’s competitors.
U.S. District Court Judge R. Stan Baker will schedule sentencing for Martinez upon completion of a pre-sentence investigation by U.S. Probation Services.
Two of the conspirators are serving federal prison terms after pleading guilty in the case. Craig German, 60, of Kernersville, North Carolina, is serving 70 months in prison after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Steal Trade Secrets, plus 20 months for Perjury and False Statements to a Government Agency for providing false information during testimony given in his first sentencing. Gilbert Basaldua, 63, of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is serving 80 months in prison after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Steal Trade Secrets and Interstate Transportation of Stolen Property.
The fourth conspirator, Joseph Pascua, 61, of Escondido, California, awaits sentencing after being found guilty at trial in February for Conspiracy to Steal Trade Secrets. His conviction is under appeal.
“Martinez was a part of a bold scheme to steal the secrets of a U.S. company rather than commit to putting in the money and hard work necessary to succeed on his own,” said Will Clarke, Senior Resident of FBI Atlanta's Savannah office. “As this conviction proves, the FBI is dedicated to identifying and prosecuting anyone who engages in illegal and deceptive practices to steal protected information.”
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorney Darron J. Hubbard and Senior Litigation Counsel Jennifer G. Solari.
Fort Myers Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing A Firearm and Ammunition as A Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Deshon G. Walker (26, Fort Myers) today pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition as convicted felon. Walker faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set.
According to court documents, officers from the Fort Myers Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with Walker as the front seat passenger. Officers located a loaded Glock pistol under Walker’s seat. DNA analysis later linked Walker to the pistol. Walker had previously been convicted of a felony and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Fort Myers Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark R. Morgan.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make out neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Former tribal councilmember and police officer sentenced to 34 years in prison for sexual abuse of minorsRead the Press Release
Tacoma – A 69-year-old member of the Lower Elwha S’Klallam Tribe was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to 34 years in prison for nine federal crimes related to the sexual abuse of minors, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Joseph Anthony Turrey, of Port Angeles, Washington, was convicted following a seven-day jury trial in March 2023. At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle said Turrey had shown no sign of remorse telling Turrey, “You demonstrated a wantonness, a cruelty, and mercilessness…. No restitution can give (your victims) back what was stolen from them.”
In 2021, according to records filed in the case, three victims disclosed abuse by the defendant that occurred between 2008 and 2016. The charged assaults occurred on tribal land, triggering federal jurisdiction. Two of the victims were as young as 6 and 7 years old when the sexual assaults began.
Early in his career, in 1993-94, Turrey served as a law enforcement officer on the Hoh Reservation. Turrey, and those who knew him at that time, described his role as Chief of Police. The Hoh Tribe has no record of that position but is aware that Turrey was employed by the tribe and supervised a fisheries enforcement officer. Turrey went on to serve as a police officer for the Lower Elwah Tribe and also served on the Tribal Council.
In her statement to the court, Assistant United States Attorney Kristine Foerster said Turrey “held positions of power while exploiting children.”
Turrey was convicted of six counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor, two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor, and one count of Abusive Sexual Contact.
The case was investigated by the FBI and Lower Elwha S’Klallam Police Department, with assistance from the National Park Service.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kristine Foerster, Will Dreher, and Jonas Lerman.
Former Texas Police Lieutenant Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Entice an 11-Year-Old Child to Engage in Sexual Activity in FloridaRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Seth Estes Vanover (51, Diana, Texas) has pleaded guilty to attempting to entice an 11-year-old child to engage in sexual activity using an online social messaging application (app). Vanover faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, imprisonment, and a potential life term of supervised release. Vanover was arrested on October 12, 2022, at the Longview Police Department in Texas where he was employed as a sworn law enforcement officer. Vanover is currently detained pending his sentencing hearing.
According to court documents, on July 25, 2022, an undercover FBI agent began an online operation designed to identify adults seeking to make online contact with and engage in sexual activity with children. Posing as the parent of an 11-year-old child, the agent posted a notice in a public chat room of an online social messaging app. That day, Vanover, using the name “jattleson,” contacted the agent using a private messaging feature of the app. Vanover confirmed that he was “into yung” and sent the agent several photos depicting child erotica as well as a photo of a nude adult male. Vanover and the undercover agent discussed the sexual experience of the purported 11-year-old “child,” and Vanover stated that he would “love to” meet them in Florida and would “love to be naked with” the “child.” Vanover and the agent engaged in more conversations on the app on August 8 and 10, 2022, and September 19, 2022, during which the two discussed meeting in Florida so that Vanover could engage in sexual activity with the “child.” Vanover confirmed with the agent that the “child” was “open to have sex,” discussed details of the sexual acts that Vanover intended to perform on the “child,” and directed the agent to “[t]alk to [the “child”] about the intended sexual activity.”
On October 12, 2022, FBI agents arrested Vanover at the Longview Police Department and Vanover resigned on that same day. Agents searched a patrol vehicle used by Vanover and recovered a cellphone that belonged to Vanover. A review of the phone revealed that it contained at least 230 videos and 130 photos depicting the sexual abuse of children, including infants, toddlers, and young children. This phone also contained sexually explicit online written communications that Vanover had with other app users, as well as child sexual abuse videos and photos that Vanover received during some of these conversations.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance and cooperation from the Longview Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Former Physician Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawfully Prescribing NarcoticsRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA — James Oscar Williams, 60, has been sentenced to federal prison for unlawfully prescribing pills while practicing as a family doctor in Columbia. Evidence presented to the court showed that between January 2015 and November 2019, Williams unlawfully prescribed David and Jennifer Mozingo well over 100,000 pills of various controlled substances, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, dextroamphetamine, and alprazolam.
Williams pleaded guilty to unlawfully distributing oxycodone and alprazolam while practicing as a medical doctor, and his medical license was revoked. Senior United States District Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. sentenced him to 60 months in federal prison, with a 3-year term of court-ordered supervision to follow.
Both David and Jennifer Mozingo pleaded guilty to drug and firearm offenses and admitted to selling most of the pills they were prescribed by Williams. They were previously sentenced to 111 and 33 months in prison, respectively. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, Fifth Circuit Solicitor’s Office, Richland County Sheriff’s Department, Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike O’Mara prosecuted the case.
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Former IT Director Sentenced for Embezzling More Than $1M from A Warwick CompanyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE , RI – The former IT Director of a Warwick, RI, metals fabrication and supply company who used his purchasing authority to devise and execute a decade-long fraud scheme that bilked his employer out of more than $1M was sentenced today to nearly three years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
Juan Hicks, 47, of New Bedford, MA, pleaded guilty in March 2023 to a charge of wire fraud, admitting that he defrauded ATW Companies in a variety of ways, including by: creating false invoices and expense reports for purchases that were never made; altering legitimate credit card statements to make purchases appear to be business expenses, when, in fact, they were for Hicks’ personal expenses; issuing company phones to himself and six family members and then enrolling the phones on the company’s wireless phone service plan; submitting invoices and using company credit cards to purchase airline and entertainment tickets for himself, family members and friends; and using those company cards to make purchases at retail stores and auto repair centers.
Hicks’ criminal conduct came to light in March 2022, when his employer hired forensic analysts to determine the source of a cyberattack and to assess vulnerabilities in its computer system. Information and analysis provided by the company to the Warwick Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Attorney’s Office subsequently revealed that Hicks had embezzled over one million dollars from the company since 2012.
Hicks was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge William E. Smith to thirty-three months in federal prison to be followed by three years of federal supervised release. He was ordered to pay restitution totaling $1,042,000.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee H. Vilker.
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Former Fresno IRS Employee Sentenced to 14 Months in Prison for Selling Morphine and Contributing to Co-worker’s DeathRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Margarita Aispuro-Camacho, 46, of Fresno, was sentenced today to 14 months in prison for illegally selling morphine and contributing to the death of her co-worker at the Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court records, in May 2020, the police found the victim dead in an apartment in Clovis. A toxicology report confirmed the victim died from an overdose of morphine and other prescription drugs. Importantly, the victim did not have a prescription for the morphine.
Agents obtained text messages between the victim and Aispuro-Camacho that showed the victim bought various prescription drugs from Aispuro-Camacho over an extended period and that the victim bought morphine from her the day before the victim died. Shortly after the victim’s death, Aispuro-Camacho was fired from the IRS for other reasons.
Aispuro-Camacho ultimately confessed to the crime when confronted by agents. Aispuro-Camacho explained that she had been prescribed the morphine and that she sold it to make a few thousand dollars in extra spending money.
This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) and Homeland Security Investigations. TIGTA is a federal agency that provides independent oversight of the IRS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton prosecuted the case.
Former Auditor at Newport Beach Commercial Real Estate Agency Pleads Guilty to Embezzling More Than $2.7 Million from EmployerRead the Press Release
SANTA ANA, California – A former executive at an Orange County commercial real estate agency pleaded guilty today to embezzling more than $2.7 million from his employer by submitting fictitious invoices for companies controlled by his family and friends, whose services never were performed.
Varun Aggarwal, 41, of Irvine, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
According to his plea agreement, from 2008 to January 2022, Aggarwal worked in the internal auditing department of the Newport Beach-based KBS Realty Advisors and rose to the level of the department’s director. Beginning at least as early as January 2012 and continuing until January 2022, Aggarwal used his position at KBS to embezzle his employer’s money.
As a member of the company’s internal auditing group, Aggarwal was familiar with KBS’s policies and procedures for payments to vendors. Aggarwal used his knowledge of KBS’s policies and procedures to have his friends and family serve as approved vendors to do contracting work for KBS.
After several of these companies became approved vendors for KBS, Aggarwal used these approved vendors to submit fraudulent invoices for consulting services that were not performed for the company. He then funneled the payments on the invoices from KBS to his own bank accounts – through the approved vendors – at times without informing the vendors that the invoices and the payments on the invoices were for his own benefit.
In carrying out this scheme, Aggarwal fraudulently obtained approximately $2,729,718 from KBS that he caused it to pay to the approved vendors that ultimately went to himself.
Aggarwal resigned from KBS in January 2022 after the company began investigating the invoices, according to court documents.
United States District Judge Cormac J. Carney scheduled a January 22, 2024, sentencing hearing, at which time Aggarwal will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.
The FBI investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Brett A. Sagel of the Santa Ana Branch Office is prosecuting this case.
Florida man admits wire fraud in India-based computer hacking scheme that stole $150,000 from Montana womanRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Florida man accused in an India-based computer hacking scheme that stole $150,000 from an elderly Montana woman admitted to a fraud crime today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Eddly Joseph, 43, of Gainesville, Florida, pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Joseph faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for Dec. 20 before U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Joseph was released on conditions pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that a large enterprise originating from India was involved in stealing money from the elderly in the United States. In February, various fraudsters stole $150,000 from a 73-year-old woman, identified as Jane Doe, in Kalispell. Joseph and co-defendant, Sukhdev Vaid, of India, fraudulently made it appear as if victims had a virus on their computers and that their bank accounts were accessible to hackers. To “safekeep” the victims’ money, Joseph and others directed the victims to withdraw cash so the hackers could not access and steal the victims’ money. Joseph and others would then meet the victims, take their cash, thereby stealing it. The government further alleged that Jane Doe received a pop-up on her computer explaining she was “hacked” and to call a number for customer support. When Jane Doe complied and called, the fraudsters directed Jane Doe to remove cash from her bank accounts for safe keeping at the “Fed.” Jane Doe complied and gave the fraudsters $150,000.
In March, Jane Doe told the fraudsters she still had $50,000 in cash, which was a ruse set up by the FBI. Joseph traveled to Montana, along with Vaid, to steal the money from Jane Doe and were arrested when they arrived. The investigation determined that the fraudsters used a remote access connection device to hack Jane Doe’s computer in January. Vaid has pleaded not guilty to charges and is pending trial.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is prosecuting the case. The FBI and the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.
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First Grade Teacher Charged with Solicitation of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A man who taught first grade at New Baden Elementary School and coached girls’ sports teams for Wesclin Community Unit School District 3 is facing a federal charge accusing him of soliciting child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Jonathan C. Villmer, Jr., 25, of New Baden, Illinois, was charged via criminal complaint and is scheduled for arraignment on Wednesday in U.S. District Court in the Southern District of Illinois.
“Adults who prey on children and their vulnerabilities are menaces to society,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “Individuals who work in schools and also exploit minors emulate another level of outwardly dangerous behavior.”
The case was initiated by an otherwise unrelated investigation by the Carmi Police Department regarding the distribution of CSAM. That investigation led to an account soliciting CSAM on Snapchat that law enforcement connected to Villmer.
According to court documents, after obtaining a search warrant for Villmer’s Snapchat account, police discovered explicit conversations with a 13-year-old minor. Villmer asked the minor for the “sexiest images,” discussed having sex and taking the minor’s virginity, and requested photographs of her genitals. Sexually explicit conversations and requests for images with other purported minors were also identified within Villmer’s Snapchat account.
Based upon IP address records associated with the Snapchat account, law enforcement connected the account to Villmer. On Aug. 18, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Villmer’s New Baden residence and seized two cell phones and other electronic devices. Villmer was arrested on scene.
An indictment is merely a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
If convicted, Villmer could face up to 20 years’ imprisonment. His first court appearance is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Aug. 23, 2023, at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis.
The Department of Homeland Security Investigations is conducting the investigation with support from the New Baden and Carmi Police Departments, and the Jefferson County and Clinton County Sheriffs’ Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ali Burns is prosecuting the case.
Anyone who believes they have information related to this case may contact Homeland Security Investigations Task Force Officer Bobby Wallace at the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office by calling 618-244-8004.
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.
FBI issues wanted poster for Florida defendant who failed to show up for sentencingRead the Press Release
Seattle – The FBI today issued a ‘Wanted Poster’ for Volodimyr Pigida. In December 2022, Volodimyr Pigida, a Miami resident who previously resided in Bellevue, Washington, was found guilty by a jury in the Western District of Washington of 26 felony counts, including conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud, and bankruptcy fraud, among other crimes.
In his over $11 million dollar Ponzi scheme that defrauded thousands of victims, Volodimyr Pigida and his wife operated a ‘work-at-home’ email scheme named Trend Sound Promoter that ultimately crashed – but not before the two raided the company’s accounts to purchase homes, expensive cars, and a yacht.
On August 4, 2023, Pigida failed to appear at his sentencing hearing. A warrant has been issued for his arrest.
If you have any information concerning this person, please contact your local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, or you can submit a tip online at [email protected].
volodimyr-pigida.pdfEtna Man Found Guilty of Using Deceased Brother’s Identity for DecadesRead the Press Release
BANGOR Maine: An Etna man was found guilty on Friday, August 18 of one count of identity theft, two counts of passport fraud, two counts of Social Security fraud and one count of mail fraud following a two-day trial before Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. in U.S. District Court in Bangor.
According to court records, beginning in the mid-1960s, Napoleon Gonzalez, 86, took on the identity of his brother, Guillermo Gonzalez, who had died as an infant in 1939. Over the years, Gonzalez obtained multiple passports bearing his brother’s name, most recently in October 2017, a passport he used to travel to Canada in July 2018. In 1981, Gonzalez applied for a Social Security number in his deceased brother’s name and filed applications for Social Security retirement benefits in his own name in 1999 and in his brother’s name in 2001.
Gonzalez collected retirement benefits under both identities until March 2020, when investigators requested the suspension of benefits being paid to Guillermo Gonzalez pending investigation. Gonzalez mailed a letter to the Social Security Administration, signing the name Guillermo Gonzalez and the Social Security number assigned to that identity, asking for an explanation for the suspension. In the letter, he requested a prompt reply, claiming that due to the on-going COVID-19 pandemic, he was locked in his apartment, unable to drive and dependent on neighbors to obtain food and other items. Gonzalez also obtained Maine state identification cards under both his own identity and his brother’s. In recorded statements, Gonzalez claimed that he took on his deceased brother’s identity at the direction of the Air Force’s Office of Special Investigations and that he was legally allowed to use both identities.
Gonzalez faces up to five years in prison on the Social Security fraud charges, up to 10 years on the passport fraud charges, up to 15 years on the identity theft charge, and up to 20 years on the mail fraud charge. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release on all charges. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office.
The Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General, the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, and the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles Division of Enforcement, Anti-Theft and Regulations investigated this case.
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Detroit-Area Personal Injury Attorney Sentenced to 18 Months for Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
A Michigan man was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for willfully filing five false tax returns for himself and one of his businesses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Carl L. Collins was a personal injury attorney with offices in Southfield, Michigan. He also owned a real estate company, First Third LLC, and two medical services companies, MedCity Rehabilitation Services LLC and Alpha Living LLC. Collins did not report substantial income he received from these businesses on his personal returns for 2012, 2015 and 2018, and on Alpha Living’s corporate 2015 return. Instead, Collins deposited the funds into Interest on Lawyer’s Trust Accounts (IOLTA), bank accounts used by lawyers solely to hold money in trust for their clients, and he did not disclose this to his return preparers or the Michigan State Bar Foundation, as required. In total, Collins concealed over $2.6 million in income from his tax preparers and the IRS.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Gershwin A. Drain ordered Collins to serve one year of supervised release and pay a $10,000 fine. A hearing to determine the amount of restitution to be paid is scheduled for Sept. 1.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Dawn N. Ison for the Eastern District of Michigan made the announcement.
IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Kenneth Vert and Jeffrey McLellan of the Justice Department’s Tax Division prosecuted the case.
California Men Stopped on I-55 Charged with Trafficking over 100 Kilos of CocaineRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Two California men, David Dowling-Chacon, 41, and Luis Dukes-Acosta, 38, have been arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine.
According to the Affidavit filed with the complaint, on August 15, 2023, an Illinois State Police Trooper stopped the tractor trailer Dowling-Chacon and Dukes-Acosta were operating on Interstate 55 near Springfield for a routine motor carrier safety inspection. The men told the trooper they were traveling together from California to Chicago to pick up a load for the tractor trailer. While speaking to Dowling-Chacon and Dukes-Acosta, the trooper became suspicious and determined further investigation was necessary. After receiving permission to search the vehicle, law enforcement officers recovered approximately 103 kilograms of suspected cocaine. Agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration assisted with the investigation on the scene.
If convicted, Dowling-Chacon and Dukes-Acosta face a mandatory minimum sentence of imprisonment of at least 10 years and could receive up to life in prison. The charges also carry up to a life-time term of supervised release and a possible fine of up to $10,000,000.
The arrests followed investigation by the Illinois State Police, Drug Enforcement Administration, Springfield Police Department, Jacksonville Police Department and Logan County Sheriff’s Office.
Members of the public are reminded that the charges in a complaint are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Boston Man Charged with Robbing Three BusinessesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man has been charged for allegedly robbing three Boston businesses.
Akeem Lahens, 33, was charged by criminal complaint with one count of affecting commerce by armed robbery. Lahens is currently in state custody on related charges and will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.
According to the charging documents, a series of commercial armed robberies occurred in Boston in late April and early May 2023: the armed robbery of Boost Mobile in Jamaica Plain on April 26, 2023; the armed robbery of Cricket Wireless in Jamaica Plain on April 27, 2023; and the armed robbery of Dunkin Donuts in Dorchester on May 4, 2023. Law enforcement believed that the robberies were connected and the perpetrator was likely the same person, as the suspect’s appearance in surveillance footage and witnesses descriptions was the same. Additionally, in each of the robberies, the suspect allegedly brandished two large knives, made a verbal demand for money, forcibly took money from the store and forced or attempted to force the victims into a rear room or bathroom of the store.
On May 5, 2023 Lahens was arrested on state charges related to the armed robberies. It is alleged that during a search of Lahens’ residence in Dorchester on May 6, 2023 two knives and sandals allegedly worn by the robber in the April 26, 2023 robbery were recovered.
According to court records, at the time of the armed robberies, Lahens was on federal supervised release after pleading guilty on April 26, 2021 in the Southern District of New York to five counts of robbery. Lahens was sentenced to 30 months of in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
The charge of affecting commerce by armed robbery provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Christopher DiMenna, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox; and Michael A. Davis, Vice President Campus Safety and Chief of Police at Northeastern University made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney David G. Tobin of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Blythewood Man Sentenced to 25 years, Barnwell Man to More than 3 years, in Federal Prison for Human Trafficking and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA — Brian Leroy Watson, a/k/a “Lil B,” a/k/a “B,” 51, of Blythewood, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Minor and Distribution of Heroin. Ryan Darian Grover, 29, of Barnwell, was sentenced to more than 3 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to Human Trafficking Conspiracy.
Evidence presented to the court showed that between 2016 and 2020, Watson trafficked at least 9 victims – 8 adults and 1 minor – into the commercial sex trade. Watson also distributed heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and crack cocaine. He operated out of Blythewood, South Carolina.
Watson targeted victims with particular vulnerabilities, including heroin and methamphetamine addictions and physical and mental impairments. One victim was homeless, and other victims were teenagers while Watson was in his 40s.
Watson obtained commercial sex from his victims through sexual violence, including non-consensual sex. He used physical violence, including slapping, hitting, and punching victims. Victims also saw Watson pistol whip customers. Watson used physical restraint, including by prohibiting victims from leaving his home until they worked for him in commercial sex. He used threats, including by telling one victim he would shoot up her house. Numerous victims saw Watson armed with a firearm. He used fraud, including by manufacturing false debts. And he used drug-based coercion, including by manipulating victims’ heroin and methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms. Watson then confiscated between 50% and 100% of the commercial sex proceeds.
On one jail call recited in court, Watson said, “They do what I tell them, that’s why I like drug addicts, I love them, I love them, I love them.” Watson has more than 50 prior convictions.
Grover lived with Watson for a portion of time between 2016 and 2020 and assisted Watson by driving victims to commercial sex acts, by negotiating with customers, and by distributing drugs.
At sentencing, the parents of three victims addressed the Court, and written statements from additional victims were presented.
“Human trafficking is a grave violation of survivors’ dignity and freedom,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs. “Our office will continue to make our state a more dangerous place for traffickers to operate and a safer place for survivors. We thank the law enforcement agencies and service providers who partner with us, and we recognize the great courage of the survivors in this case who came forward.”
“Watson’s heinous actions have caused long-lasting trauma to his victims,” Steve Jensen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Columbia Field Office said. “No sentence will erase the damage that he has caused, but it is our hope that victims find solace in knowing he can no longer cause them harm. The FBI, along with our partners at the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, stand firm in our determination to protect vulnerable citizens from dangerous predators.”
“Criminals like Watson should know that if they choose to harm our children, they will not escape justice,” Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said. “We are pleased with this sentence and will continue to prosecute those who abuse our young people.”
“I am thankful for the successful partnerships we have in combating sex trafficking crime,” said Kershaw County Sheriff Lee Boan. “Our communities are safer with these types of criminals behind bars.”
Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Anderson, Jr. sentenced Watson to 25 years in federal prison, to be followed by a lifetime term of court-ordered supervision, plus $45,000 in restitution to be paid to 9 victims. Grover was sentenced to 41 months in prison, to be followed by lifetime supervision by the court. There is no parole in the federal system. Watson and Grover also must register as sex offenders upon release from prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, and the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott B. Daniels is prosecuting the case.
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Baton Rouge Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. announced that Floyd C. Hose, Jr., age 38, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson to bank robbery.
According to admissions made during his plea, on December 5, 2022, Hose entered the Cottonport Bank at 6500 Corporate Boulevard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and passed a note to a teller demanding cash. Hose took $9,605.00 from the teller and fled the bank. During a search of Hose’s apartment, detectives located a mask suspected to be worn during the robbery and money suspected to be taken during the robbery. After Hose’s arrest, he confessed to the robbery and reported that he committed the robbery to help pay off several debts he had.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Baton Rouge Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Harley W. Ferguson.
Bakersfield Dentist Pleads Guilty to Stealing $500,000 in COVID-19 Relief MoneyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Ranjan Rajbanshi, D.D.S., 46, of Bakersfield and Santa Barbara, pleaded guilty today to stealing $500,000 in COVID-19 relief money, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court records, Rajbanshi ran a dental practice in Bakersfield and Santa Barbara. From April 2020 through February 2022, he received over $850,000 in COVID-19 relief money from the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). He represented to the government that he would only use the relief money for specified business purposes such as facility costs, payroll, and protective equipment for him and his staff.
Rajbanshi subsequently used $500,000 of the relief money for improper personal expenditures such as investments. He has agreed to pay that money back to the government before his sentencing.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the SBA Office of Inspector General, and HHS Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Barton and Robin Tubesing are prosecuting the case.
Rajbanshi is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ana de Alba on Dec. 4, 2023. Rajbanshi faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and fine of $250,000. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Amesbury Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An Amesbury man has pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston to child pornography charges.
Thomas Cross, 30, pleaded guilty on Aug. 18, 2023 to one count each of distribution of child pornography, receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for Nov. 15, 2023. Cross was charged by complaint in November 2018 and subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2018.
Cross’ charges stem from the November 2018 search of his home that resulted in the seizure of several electronic devices which contained files depicting child pornography and chats between Cross and a person subsequently identified as Desiree Daigle, in which they exchanged various child pornography files. Some of the images depicted an infant known to Daigle, taken in Daigle’s home. In the chat, the two discussed plans for Cross to meet the child in person so that he and Daigle could sexually abuse the child together. Both Cross and Daigle admitted to exchanging child pornography with each other.
Daigle was arrested and charged separately with the sexual exploitation of children. In October 2022, she was sentenced to 17 years in prison and five years of supervised release.
Cross was detained following his arrest in November 2018. He subsequently appealed the order of pretrial detention to the District Court, who released Cross in July 2019 on conditions which, among other things, prohibited him from accessing the internet, possessing pornographic material and possessing internet-accessible devices. However, in June 2020, Cross was re-arrested after a CyberTip identified he was using social media to exchange child pornography and he was found to be in possession of multiple cell phones and an internet-connected gaming console – in violation of his conditions of release. Cross has remained in federal custody since.
The charges of distribution and receipt of child pornography each provide for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years in prison. The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison. All the charges provide for a minimum of five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Christopher DiMenna, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Assistance was provided by the Amesbury Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne Paruti, the Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Chief of the Major Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
1st Defendant Charged in Connection with Federal Escapees is SentencedRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Indictment from earlier this year in the Western District of Missouri Federal Court charging individuals with escaping confinement and other individuals with assisting them, resulted in an incarceration sentence of 40 months for one of those charged.
Trevor Scott Sparks, 33, Kansas City, MO, and Sergio Perez Martinez, 43, Panorama City, CA, were charged in a two-count Indictment with escape from confinement and aiding or assisting each other in escape from confinement. Another individual, Steven Lydell Williams, Sr., 64, Kansas City, MO, was also charged in the Indictment with a single count of aiding or assisting in the escape.
As of the drafting of this release, Perez Martinez remain at large, although Sparks was re-arrested December 30th, 2022. Williams, Sr., who has been in custody pending resolution of his charges since shortly after the escape, was sentenced for his role in that escape. The Court sentenced him to 40 months in custody, consecutive to any sentence he may receive in two pending state cases that resulted from Missouri moving to revoke his parole from prior state felony convictions.
After arrests on federal felony warrants, and because of jury trial convictions and guilty pleas to various felony charges contained within several Western District of Missouri (WDMO) Federal Grand Jury indictments and various orders of WDMO Federal District Court Judge D. Greg Kays, Trevor Scott Sparks and Sergio Perez Martinez were confined in the Cass County, Missouri, Jail on multiple federal felonies.
Federal, state, and local law enforcement began investigating the escape of Sparks and Martinez from the Cass County Jail on or about December 5, 2022. On December 6, 2022, the United States Marshals Service was notified by Cass County, Missouri, that Sparks escaped from confinement and was seen leaving the facility at 10:22 p.m. on December 5, 2022. It was later determined that Sparks and Martinez, another inmate in the Cass County facility, escaped through subterfuge and damage to the facility from the Cass County Jail and fled east outside the jail into the surrounding rural community. From there, Defendant Williams picked them up in his vehicle and transported them to his apartment in Kansas City, Missouri, where they obtained clothes and food. Williams then transported them into the Northeast area of the Kansas City metropolitan area, where Williams dropped them off. Sparks and his mother, Dawn Branstietter, were subsequently arrested in this same general area on December 30th. Branstietter’s husband, John Baxter, was also later arrested on the same charges. These three defendants are scheduled for sentencing later this month and in early September.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bruce Rhoades and Robert Smith. It is being investigated by the United States Marshal Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Kansas City Police Department, and the Cass County Sheriff’s Department with other law enforcement agencies also assisting.
Friday 18 August 2023
Woman Indicted for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon on Menominee Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on August 15, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment charging a woman with an armed assault on the Menominee Indian Reservation. The indictment named Justine V. Peters, (age 34) who most recently lived in Neopit, which is a community in the Menominee Indian Reservation.
The indictment charges Peters with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 113(a)(3) and 1153(a). If convicted of this offense, Peters faces a maximum of ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. She also faces up to three years of supervised release and payment of a special assessment.
According to filed court documents, on or about December 20, 2022, Peters assaulted a man with a knife while at a residence, resulting in lacerations to the man’s head and neck.
The Menominee Tribal Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Maier will prosecute.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Wesley Chapel Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Exploiting and Producing Sexual Abuse Material Depicting ChildrenRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Mary Scriven has sentenced Clayton Everett Colborn (31, Wesley Chapel) to life in federal prison for enticement and coercion of a minor to engage in sexual activity, using minors to produce child sexual abuse images and videos, and possessing child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Colborn to forfeit a cellphone, which was used in the commission of the offense. Colborn had pleaded guilty in March 2023.
According to court documents, between 2018 and 2020, Colborn used a social networking application to find minors for the purpose of engaging in sex acts. Colborn, who was between the ages of 27 and 28 at the time of his offenses, created a fictitious profile named “Jason Rich” and indicated that he was 16 years old. The social networking application is designed to help people make friendships and has two distinct age groups based on a user’s profile: 1) ages 13 to 17 years old, and 2) 18 years and older. Using the fictitious profile, Colborn met the victims in group one–ages 13 to 17 years old. He told the victims he was 16 years old and enticed them into engaging in sexual intercourse with him at various locations throughout the Middle District of Florida, including in his car, his apartment, and victims’ residences. In one instance, the Ocoee Police Department caught Colborn in a public park in the middle of the night with a child victim. Colborn’s pants were unzipped at the time officers chased and apprehended him in the park. Law enforcement officers obtained DNA evidence, which showed that Colborn had engaged in sexual activity with the child victim.
To date, the FBI has identified and interviewed eight child victims who all resided within the Middle District of Florida. Colborn victimized each child victim in a similar manner.
During the investigation, the FBI obtained a federal search warrant for Colborn’s iCloud account and found approximately 30 videos and 81 images that Colborn had produced of himself sexually abusing young girls between the ages of 13 and 17 years old.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Tampa and Jacksonville Divisions), the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, the Ocoee Police Department, and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilyssa Spergel.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Wagoner County Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm CrimeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Sammy Shade Allen, age 28, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
At the plea hearing, Allen admitted that on November 24, 2020, he knowingly possessed multiple firearms while also possessing heroin. He also admitted to possessing the heroin with the intent to distribute it in exchange for money, and that he possessed the firearms in order to protect both the drugs and drug proceeds.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Wagoner County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Allen was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Bondura represented the United States.
Vivian Man Receives Lengthy Federal Prison Sentence for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the sentencing a Vivian man today for illegal possession of narcotics. United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote sentenced Michael Duncan, 46, to 262 months (21 years, 10 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
On August 10, 2022, law enforcement officers with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) executed search warrants on two residences in Vivian, both of which were rented by Duncan. The search warrants had been obtained after law enforcement agents received direct evidence that Duncan had supplied methamphetamine that was sold undercover on three occasions in July and August 2022. Agents had been able to seize the methamphetamine which had been supplied by Duncan and then sold, and sent it to the crime lab for analysis. The crime lab confirmed that the substance was in fact methamphetamine.
During the execution of the search warrants at Duncan’s two residences, agents located a large amount of methamphetamine inside the oven in one house. In the second residence, they seized a backpack from the master bedroom which contained suspected powder cocaine, methamphetamine, crack cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine tablets. Agents also seized over $5,000 in U.S. Currency. The suspected narcotics were all sent to the crime lab for analysis and confirmed to be authentic.
Duncan pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on November 4, 2022.
The case was investigated by the DEA and Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian C. Flanagan.
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United States Attorney’s Office and the Asian American Foundation Host Oakland Roundtable Discussion Addressing Fighting HateRead the Press Release
OAKLAND- On August 17, 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California (USAO), in conjunction with The Asian American Foundation (TAAF), hosted a roundtable to discuss how federal law enforcement may support local communities in addressing hate crimes and similar incidents. The roundtable was the third in a series held in furtherance of the Department of Justice’s nationwide United Against Hate initiative, and the first to be held in Oakland.
The roundtable took place at the Oakland Asian Cultural Center and was supported by the Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce. U.S. Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey attended the forum along with several attorneys from the USAO. Also in attendance were numerous representatives from various government agencies—including supervisory agents from the FBI, representatives of the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office and the Oakland City Attorney’s Office, and Oakland City Council District 7 Councilmember Treva Reid—and leaders from approximately thirty community-based organizations, including Advancing Justice – Asian Law Caucus, Alliance of South Asians Taking Action, Anti-Defamation League, NAACP, National Federation of Filipino American Associations, and SALT SF.
Prior to the community discussion, U.S. Attorney Ramsey gave introductory remarks. Benjamin Kingsley, Chief of the Oakland Branch of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, gave an overview of federal hate crimes enforcement. Sai Mohan, Deputy Chief of the Civil Division’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Section, then gave an overview of civil remedies for federal civil rights violations.
Several community leaders said that Oakland was in crisis and expressed that hate crime, in particular, caused enduring pain. Leaders spoke about crime including violent attacks on AAPI elders, the lack of material support for Samoan and Tongan communities, and increased threats against houses of worship. Community leaders stated that solidarity between communities against hate crime was critical. They also emphasized that cooperation between government agencies and community-based organization, and more resources, were necessary to devise and implement effective solutions that provide meaningful consequences for offenders, and tackle roots causes of crime. Community leaders welcomed the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s participation in addressing these difficult problems and thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for bringing community groups together to discuss these issues.
U.S. Attorney Ramsey expressed the importance of the dialogue and his hope for the future. “I am looking forward to continuing this dialogue and finding ways to prevent—and fight against—crimes that originate in hate,” said U.S. Attorney Ramsey. “I cannot emphasize enough the importance to my office of bringing the entire community together to address this issue; only with all of us at the table will we find the collective strength and wisdom to find the best solutions.”
If you believe yourself to be a victim or witness of a federal hate crime, please report it at 1-800-CALL-FBI or fbi.gov. To report a civil rights violation, please visit civilrights.justice.gov.