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Monday 22 May 2023
Third Superseding Indictment Charges 22 Members and Associates of Violent Gang with Racketeering, Murder, Attempted Murder, Robbery and Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – In a 42 count third superseding indictment, 22 members and associates of the Boston-based Cameron Street gang have been charged with various crimes including racketeering (RICO) conspiracy, gun and drug trafficking, illegal possession of firearms, and possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to court documents, the Cameron Street gang is a violent criminal enterprise whose members and associates are involved in a variety of criminal activities – including murders, attempted murders, armed robberies, carjackings, home invasions, human trafficking, as well as drug and firearms trafficking, among other offenses – in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston and surrounding areas. While the gang is primarily based in Boston, Cameron Street criminal activity has spanned other communities, including Brockton, Cambridge, Somerville, Quincy, Everett, Randolph, Taunton and elsewhere in Massachusetts.
It is alleged that Cameron Street members use violence against rival gangs and witnesses, typically with the use of firearms, to maintain and enhance their status and the overall reputation of the gang, as well as to protect the gang’s power, reputation and territory. Cameron Street members are allegedly responsible for assisting one another with obtaining and accessing firearms, forming and maintaining drug trafficking connections, resolving territorial disputes with rival gangs and providing safe havens for fellow members who are wanted by law enforcement. It is further alleged that Cameron Street gang members regularly post videos or use social media to promote Cameron Street, denigrate gang rivals and to celebrate murders and other violent crimes committed by the gang. To identify themselves as members of the gang, members obtain tattoos, use hand signs and wear jewelry and clothing involving the letters “C,” “A” and “M,” or numbers corresponding with the letters’ places in the alphabet, “3-1-1-3.” Members engage in drug trafficking activity and distributed kilograms of cocaine, cocaine base (crack cocaine), oxycodone and marijuana throughout Massachusetts. During the investigation, 21 firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition were allegedly seized from 11 of the defendants.
The third superseding indictment adds three Cameron Street members to the RICO conspiracy count: Takari Elliot, a/k/a “T-Paper”; Daronde Bethea, a/k/a “Freeze”; and Michael Nguyen, a/k/a “Asian.” The third superseding indictment alleges that, as part of the Cameron Street enterprise, Elliot was paid to commit the Oct. 13, 2020 murder of a gang rival in Brockton. It is further alleged that Cameron Street members committed previously uncharged attempted murders, including Eric Correia and Clayton Rodrigues’ attempted murder of a gang rival in Boston as well as the June 11, 2018 attempted murder of a gang rival in Boston by Betha and Anthony Centieo. Additionally, the indictment alleges that Bethea and Nguyen worked with Cameron Street associate Brendan Amado to commit a home invasion robbery of a Canton home in July 2018.
The charge of RICO conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Because Elliot is alleged to have committed a murder during the Cameron Street enterprise, Elliot faces an increased penalty of life in prison on the RICO conspiracy count. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and/or ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime provides a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to life in prison, up to five of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charges of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine or 50 grams or more of methamphetamine provide for a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, up to 40 years in prison, supervised release of at least 4 years, and a fine of up to $5 million. The charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances each provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. The charge of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by threat or violence provides for a sentence of up to 20 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and supervised release for three years. 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.
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Michael J. Krol, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Pohl and Alathea E. Porter of Levy’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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APPENDIX
1. Kenny Romero, a/k/a “KG,” 28, charged with RICO conspiracy, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, distribution of cocaine base and cocaine;
2. Anthony Centeio, a/k/a “Wheezy,” a/k/a “Taliban Wheeze,” 33, charged with RICO conspiracy, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine;
3. Felisberto Lopes, a/k/a “Phil,” a/k/a “CheeB,” 36, charged with RICO conspiracy, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of 500 grams or more of cocaine with intent to distribute;
4. Keiarri Dyette, a/k/a “Kemo,” 24, charged with RICO conspiracy, dealing in firearms without a license, and conspiracy to distribute cocaine;
5. Eric Correia, a/k/a “Bubba,” 24, charged with RICO conspiracy and distribution of marijuana;
6. Paulo Santos, a/k/a “Bucky,” 33, charged with RICO conspiracy, possession of 500 grams or more of cocaine with intent to distribute, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense;
7. Devante Lopes, a/k/a “D-Lopes,” 27, charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute marijuana, and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine;
8. Charod Taylor, a/k/a “Pachino,” 33, charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and cocaine;
9. Jose Afonseca, a/k/a “Zay,” 30, charged with RICO conspiracy, dealing in firearms without a license, and conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine;
10. James Rodrigues, a/k/a “Bummy,” 32, charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute cocaine base;
11. Jonathan Darosa, a/k/a “Jeezy,” 29, charged with RICO conspiracy, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and distribution of cocaine and oxycodon;
12. Clayton Rodrigues, a/k/a “Loo,” a/k/a “C-Loo,” 26, charged with RICO conspiracy and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number;
13. Wilter Rodrigues, a/k/a “Walt,” a/k/a “Wo-Wo,” 35, charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base;
14. Michael Lopes, a/k/a “Meech,” 34, charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and cocaine;
15. Victor Nunez, a/k/a “Tito,” 41, charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and cocaine;
16. FNU LNU, a/k/a “Smoke,” charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and cocaine;
17. Jamaal Davis, a/k/a “Marley,” 29, charged with distribution of cocaine and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense;
18. Michael Nguyen, a/k/a “Asian,” 22, charged with RICO conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense;
19. Steve Depina, a/k/a “Stizz,” 35, charged with felon in possession of a firearm and distribution of cocaine base and cocaine;
20. Daronde Bethea, a/k/a “Freeze,” 30, charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to interfere with commerce by threat or violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm;
21. Takari Elliot, a/k/a “T-Paper,” 31, charged with RICO conspiracy; and
22. Brendon Amado, 27, charged with conspiracy to interfere with commerce by threat or violence.Third Defendant Pleads Guilty in Conspiracy to Steal USDA-Mortgaged HousesRead the Press Release
Natchez, Miss. – A Jayess woman pleaded guilty to conspiring to steal houses from the United States Department of Agriculture, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Dax Roberson of United States Department of Agriculture, Office of the Inspector General.
According to court documents, Ella Martin, 69, conspired with others to identify and steal USDA-mortgaged properties. The targeted properties were mortgaged through the Brookhaven office of USDA Rural Development, an agency which helps rural residents buy or rent safe, affordable housing, especially low and very-low income individuals. As an employee of that office, Martin had access to a list of abandoned, foreclosed, nearly-foreclosed, or similarly distressed USDA-mortgaged properties and would create fraudulent warranty deeds designed to convey ownership of those properties to co-conspirators and others. The fraudulent deeds included forged signatures from former homeowners, including at least one deceased individual. The fraudulent deeds were then filed in Chancery Courts around Mississippi with the intent to deprive the actual owners of the use and benefit of the properties and to deprive the United States Government of the actual value of the properties.
Martin pleaded guilty to a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, which criminalizes conspiracies against the laws of the United States. She is scheduled to be sentenced on September 19, 2023 and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Co-defendants Barry Martin and Fiesta Kagler entered guilty pleas last year and are scheduled to be sentenced on June 15, 2023.
The USDA OIG and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly T. Purdie is prosecuting the case.
Stonington Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MATTHEW X. SMITH, 29, of Stonington, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffery A. Meyer in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for a child exploitation offense.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 12, 2021, Smith, using the Kik social media application, initiated contact with an FBI Online Covert Employee (“OCE”) who was posing as a 14-year-old girl. Smith sent sexually explicit messages to the OCE, requested the OCE send him sexually explicit pictures, and discussed meeting the OCE to engage in sexual conduct. As the Kik communication continued in the following days, investigators also determined that Smith, using a different Kik user account, had engaged in sexually explicit exchanges with the OCE in 2020. Smith and the OCE agreed to meet on August 18, 2021.
On August 18, 2021, Smith was arrested by New London Police on state charges after he arrived at the agreed upon meeting location. He was charged by federal criminal complaint in February 2022. On January 10, 2023, he pleaded guilty to soliciting child pornography.
Smith, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on June 26.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the New London Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
South Georgia Man Sentenced as Career Offender for Armed Meth DistributionRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA, Ga. – A Valdosta, Georgia, resident with a lengthy criminal drug distribution history was sentenced as a federal career offender after admitting to distributing methamphetamine from a motel room in South Georgia.
Thomas Charles Singletary, 45, was sentenced to serve 130 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Hugh Lawson on May 17, after he previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Armed convicted felons distributing highly dangerous drugs in the Middle District of Georgia will face the possibility of federal prosecution for repeatedly breaking the law and putting our citizens at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “We are collaborating with our law enforcement partners at every level to make our communities safer.”
According to court documents, a confidential source tipped off Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) investigators about illegal drugs being sold from a motel room in Lake Park, Georgia. On Feb. 4, 2021, LCSO investigators found Singletary, a known convicted felon, in the room with a handgun and drug paraphernalia visible. Singletary admitted the firearm—a .380 caliber, semi-automatic pistol—was his for protection. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm. A search of the room recovered the firearm, multiple ammunition rounds and a bag of methamphetamine. Text messages found on the cell phone of an individual with Singletary revealed evidence that they were involved in distributing methamphetamine in Adel, Georgia.
Singletary has at least six felony convictions in the Superior Courts of Tift County, Georgia, Berrien County, Georgia, and Lowndes County, Georgia, to include possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McCullers is prosecuting the case for the government.
South Bay Man Found Guilty of Selling Fentanyl-Laced Pills That Caused Fatal Poisoning of 15-Year-Old Rolling Hills Estates BoyRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A South Bay man has been found guilty by a jury of distributing pills laced with the powerful opioid fentanyl to a 15-year-old boy who ingested them and died in May 2020, the Justice Department announced today.
Alexander Declan Bell Wilson, 22, of Rolling Hills, was found guilty late Friday of one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.
According to evidence presented at a five-day trial, on the evening on May 14, 2020, Wilson agreed to distribute five “percs” –slang for pills typically laced with fentanyl – to the victim, Nathan Young-Nichols, 15, of Rolling Hills Estates. Evidence seized from Young-Nichols’ cellular phone shows he believed the pills were authentic pharmaceutical pills that contained the opioid oxycodone.
At around 11:30 p.m. that night, the victim’s 13-year-old brother met Wilson outside the family’s house to pick up the five pills. Wilson then handed a plastic bag containing the pills to the victim’s brother through the window of Wilson’s vehicle. The victim’s brother took the bag from Wilson, went back inside the house, and gave the pills to the victim. Shortly afterward, Young-Nichols posted a photograph of the pills on his Snapchat social media account and then ingested the pills.
From approximately 1:50 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. on May 15, 2020, Wilson and the victim argued on Snapchat about the proper way to consume the pills Wilson had sold to the victim. During those chats, Wilson chastised Young-Nichols for chewing the pills, and then shared screenshots of their conversation with his Snapchat followers.
On the morning of May 15, 2020, the victim’s grandmother found him dead in his bedroom. Expert testimony at trial confirmed the victim’s death was caused solely due to fentanyl poisoning.
United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha scheduled an October 20 sentencing hearing, at which time Wilson will face a mandatory sentence of 20 years and a potential sentence of life imprisonment. Wilson has been in federal custody since May 2021.
The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Overdose Justice Task Force and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department investigated this matter.
The Overdose Justice Task Force is a project designed to investigate fatal fentanyl poisonings and identify the individuals who provided the fentanyl that directly caused the deaths. Under the Overdose Justice program for the DEA’s Los Angeles Field Division, DEA agents have established collaborative relationships with local law enforcement agencies across the seven counties that make up the Central District of California. Local authorities are almost always the first to respond to an overdose death, and DEA agents have provided training to dozens of local agencies to help them analyze evidence to determine if there are circumstances that might lead to a federal criminal prosecution.
Assistant United States Attorneys Ian V. Yanniello and Daniel H. Weiner of the General Crimes Section are prosecuting this case.
Slidell Man Indicted for Violations of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – RODERICK WILLIAMS, age 27, of Slidell, Louisiana, was charged on May 19, 2023 in a three-count indictment for being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, WILLIAMS possessed firearms on three separate occasions. WILLIAMS was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous felony convictions. If convicted as to Count 1, WILLIAMS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. If convicted as to Counts 2 and 3, WILLIAMS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment as to each count. Each count also requires payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U. S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Rayburn of the Violent Crimes Unit.
Santa Clarita Man Found Guilty of Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A federal jury has convicted a Canyon Country man and former Navy SEAL of producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) for surreptitiously filming nude minor victims with hidden cameras in a residential setting.
Robert Quido Stella, 50, was found guilty Friday afternoon of three counts of producing child pornography, each of which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in federal prison.
According to court documents, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) received a tip two years ago that Stella had accessed a dark web child pornography website.
On July 15, 2021, agents found collections of CSAM on Stella’s computer and two external hard drives. Stella concealed some of the collections in digital folders structures bearing misleading titles such as “federal contracts” and “tax returns.” During the course of their investigation, HSI agents also found hidden cameras that Stella placed, including one disguised as a USB charging block. According to evidence presented at trial, Stella used that hidden camera to film his minor victims as they undressed to shower and used the bathroom.
HSI later located approximately 17 videos and over 100 screenshots from those videos of minor victims naked and partially undressed. Stella hid these images under multi-level digital folder structures on a hard drive bearing misleading titles such as “course work.”
A federal grand jury returned an indictment on July 27, 2021, that charged Stella with the three counts of production of child pornography, one count of access with intent to view child pornography for logging on to the child pornography dark web site, and two counts of possession of child pornography. Stella pleaded guilty to access with intent to view child pornography and two counts possession of child pornography, each of which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years.
The federal jury convicted Stella of the three counts of production of child pornography on Friday after a four-day trial.
United States District Judge George H. Wu has scheduled an August 24 sentencing hearing on all six counts.
Stella has been in custody since his arrest.
This investigation in this case was conducted by HSI.
Assistant United States Attorneys Catharine A. Richmond and Lyndsi C. Allsop of the Violent and Organized Crime Section are prosecuting this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Rush City Woman Pleads Guilty to $1.8 Million Scheme Involving Romance Fraud and Federal Pandemic ProgramsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Rush City woman has pleaded guilty to mail fraud after participating in multiple schemes that defrauded individuals throughout the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, from 2017 through April 2022, Gayle Joyce Ferngren, 69, and others participated in a scheme to launder proceeds that were fraudulently obtained from victims throughout the United States, including the proceeds of romance fraud scams and schemes to defraud Federal Pandemic Assistance Programs.
According to her guilty plea, from approximately June 2020 through December 2020, Ferngren acknowledges that she received at least 68 debit cards containing approximately $1.3 million in fraudulent unemployment benefits from California and Nevada to which she was not entitled. After receiving the fraudulent proceeds, Ferngren kept a portion for herself and transmitted most of the funds to other scheme participants, including to individuals located overseas. In total, Ferngren laundered at least $1.8 million in fraud proceeds.
According to her guilty plea, on or about May 27, 2021, a scheme participant—not Ferngren—submitted an application in Ferngren's name seeking a PPP loan in the amount of approximately $20,833.00. Among other falsehoods, the PPP application claimed that Ferngren had worked as an independent contractor doing residential remodeling since 2017 and included falsified tax records and income claims. Ferngren did not sign this application or fill out the information contained within it. Based on the false information presented by another scheme participant, the fraudulent PPP loan application was approved and approximately $20,833 in fraudulent PPP proceeds were deposited into Fergren’s bank account in May 2021, which she knew she was not entitled to receive.
Ferngren pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Judge John R. Tunheim to one count of mail fraud. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later time.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Department of Labor–Office of Inspector General, and the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew S. Ebert and Allison K. Ethen are prosecuting the case.
Registered Sex Offender Arrested on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A registered sex offender living in Woonsocket made an initial appearance in federal court on Friday, charged by way of a criminal complaint with possessing and accessing with intent to view child pornography, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
According to documents filed with the court, a member of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that an IP address, later determined to originate from a Woonsocket residence where Matthew S. Hathaway, 25, resided, was allegedly being used to possess and transfer child pornography.
On March 16, 2023, members of the ICAC Task Force executed a court-authorized search warrant at Hathaway’s residence and seized a desktop computer and cell phone belonging to Hathaway. A forensic audit of the electronic devices by Homeland Security Investigations determined that the devices allegedly contained 7,984 images and 192 videos of child sexual abuse material.
A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dulce Donovan.
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Registered Sex Offender Arrested for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Harwich man has been arrested on child pornography offenses.
Jonathan Fleischmann, 35, was charged with one count of possession of child pornography. Fleischmann was arrested on May 16, 2023 and remains federal custody following a detention hearing today before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge David H. Hennessey.
According to the charging documents, Fleischmann’s co-workers reported to law enforcement that, between March 17 and March 18, 2023, Fleischmann’s cellphone was allegedly observed downloading suspected child pornography media files while his phone was left open and charging on a counter at their workplace. During a subsequent search of Fleischmann’s cellphone allegedly identified approximately 255 image files and 55 video files that contained suspected child pornography.
Fleischmann is currently facing separate state charges in Barnstable Superior Court for allegedly invading a Yarmouth home and forcibly taking a 16-year-old female at gunpoint into her house as she arrived home from school in 2020.
Fleishmann is a Level 3 sex offender due to prior convictions in Barnstable District Court of Indecent Assault and Battery on a Child Under 14 in 2006 and Open and Gross Lewdness in 2017.
Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274.
The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five 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 and Michael J. Krol, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm of Levy’s 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.
Picayune Man Sentenced to over 6 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Picayune man was sentenced to 77 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Jourdan Rayshade Bolton, 20, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Gulfport.
According to court records, in December 2021, law enforcement became aware of a possible drug trafficking organization in Pearl River County involving Bolton and a co-conspirator. On February 8, 2022, a controlled purchase of fentanyl pills was conducted with Bolton and his co-conspirator at a Picayune residence in Pearl River County. On July 8, 2022, a search warrant was executed at the defendant’s residence. 60 fentanyl pills were recovered as well as four firearms.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.
Orange County Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Using Stolen Identities to Apply for over $1 Million in COVID Jobless BenefitsRead the Press Release
SANTA ANA, California – An Orange County man was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison for fraudulently applying for more than $1.2 million in COVID-19 pandemic unemployment insurance (UI) benefits – and receiving more than $400,000 of the same – by using the stolen identities of two dozen victims.
Nhan Hoang Pham, 37, of Santa Ana, was sentenced by United States District Judge James V. Selna, who also ordered him to pay $408,496 in restitution.
Pham pleaded guilty on January 23 to one count of wire fraud in relation to benefits connected to a presidentially declared emergency.
From July 2020 to April 2021, Pham acquired without authorization or permission the personal identifying information (PII) – including names, dates of birth and Social Security numbers – of people living in California, Texas and Michigan, people he had never met.
Pham then created and submitted fraudulent online applications to the California Employment Development Department (EDD), which administers the state’s unemployment insurance program. Pham’s fraudulent applications sought federally funded pandemic benefits intended for the jobless and represented that the victims whose PII was unlawfully used received mail at Anaheim addresses that, in fact, Pham controlled.
Upon receipt of the applications, EDD transmitted the claimant information to Bank of America, which caused the issuance and mailing of debit cards to Anaheim addresses that Pham controlled.
Pham then took the fraudulently obtained debit cards and used them to withdraw money at ATMs throughout Orange County.
While Pham tried to obtain approximately $1,255,350 through fraudulent applications containing the PII of 24 identity theft victims, he received approximately $408,496.
The United States Secret Service; the United States Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General; the California Employment Development Department Investigation Division; the Orange County District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation; and the Santa Ana Police Department investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Lawrence E. Kole of the Santa Ana Branch Office prosecuted this case.
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 Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
One-Time ‘Shot-Caller’ of MS-13 in Los Angeles, Second Senior Member of Gang Found Guilty of Federal RICO and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – Two senior members of Mara Salvatrucha, a transnational criminal street gang commonly called MS-13, including the one-time shot-caller of all MS-13 in Los Angeles, have been found guilty of federal racketeering and drug trafficking charges, the Justice Department announced today.
José Balmore Romero, 49, a.k.a. “Porky,” the case’s lead defendant, and Erwin Alexander Melgar, 45, a.k.a. “Snoopy,” each were found guilty late Friday of one count of conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act and one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Melgar also was found guilty of two counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
According to evidence presented at a four-day trial, Balmore was the overall shot-caller for MS-13 in Los Angeles in 2013 and 2014. As the leader of the gang, Balmore oversaw MS-13’s activities in Los Angeles, serving as the leader for the more than 20 cliques of MS-13 in Los Angeles. In this role, Balmore oversaw MS-13’s drug trafficking activities and the collection of extortionate “taxes” and “rent,” some of which was then distributed to Mexican Mafia members.
Balmore also conducted gang leadership meetings, where he brought together leaders from the various Los Angeles-based MS-13 cliques to discuss coordinated efforts in strengthening and organizing the gang in Los Angeles. He also disseminated gang orders, including authorizing the initiation of new members and the assault of members who were in bad standing.
As for Melgar, evidence at trial showed he was the shot-caller of the Normandie clique of MS-13 in Los Angeles, a clique based in the Koreatown area of Los Angeles. In this role, Melgar controlled and gave orders to the clique members, including to engage in acts of violence. Melgar also directed the clique’s extortion and drug sales.
In addition to narcotics trafficking and violent crimes, members of MS-13 also engaged in a wide range of criminal conduct that includes the extortion of street-level drug dealers and innocent business owners who were threatened with death if they did not make payments to the gang. Under Melgar, the gang also operated illegal after-hours clubs, commonly known as “casitas,” where it generated profits from illegal narcotics and alcohol sales.
United States District Judge Otis D. Wright II scheduled an October 16 sentencing hearing, at which time Balmore and Melgar will face statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison and a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison.
Federal prosecutors have secured 28 convictions so far in this case, which targeted the leadership of MS-13 in Los Angeles.
The investigation into MS-13 was conducted by the Los Angeles Metropolitan Task Force on Violent Gangs and was led by the FBI and the Los Angeles Police Department.
The LAMTFVG includes personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Southern California Drug Task Force pursuant to the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the United States Bureau of Prisons participated in the investigation.
Other agencies provided substantial assistance during the investigation, including the Los Angeles Regional Criminal Information Clearinghouse (LA CLEAR), the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office, the Los Angeles County Probation Department, and the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Chemerinsky, Chief of the Violent and Organized Crime Section, and Assistant United States Attorneys Shawn T. Andrews and Amy E. Pomerantz, also of the Violent and Organized Crime Section, are prosecuting this case.
Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Brandon Ellis Gates, 37, of Akron, Ohio, pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute a mixture containing methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 12, 2022, a law enforcement officer conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Gates on Interstate 77 in Jackson County. Gates admitted to possessing approximately four pounds of methamphetamine found during the officer’s search of the vehicle.
Gates is scheduled to be sentenced on August 24, 2023, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), United States Marshals Service and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys Julie M. White and J.C. MacCallum are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-146.
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Nurse Who Stole Painkillers, Replacing Them with Saline and Putting Surgical Patients at Risk, Sentenced to Four YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A former Fuquay-Varina nurse was sentenced today to 48 months in prison and three years of supervised release for tampering with painkillers intended for surgery patients. On March 9, 2022, Melissa Elizabeth Chacona pled guilty to the charges.
“Surgical patients trust healthcare providers to give them the medicines they need. Ms. Chacona abused her position of trust to steal powerful prescription pain medications intended for surgical patients and replace them with saline,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “In delivering today’s sentence the judge noted that these patients were in the most vulnerable position. My office will continue to pursue healthcare providers whose crimes jeopardize public safety.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Chacona, 45, worked as a nurse at a Raleigh-area surgical practice. In early 2019, she began extracting the medication from vials of fentanyl, morphine, and meperidine and replacing it with saline. She did this for several months, compromising at least seventy-eight vials, including those intended for surgical patients. Testing revealed that compromised vials contained less than 15% of the actual medication and that the tampering had rendered multiple vials unsterile.
Chacona has also been convicted at the state level for diverting medication earlier in her nursing career. Her plea agreement requires permanent surrender of her nursing license.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Food and Drug Administration, Raleigh Police Department, and North Carolina Board of Nursing investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lucy Partain Brown and Dennis Duffy 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. 5:19-CR-488-D.
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Norfolk Man and Woman Convicted for Series of Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A federal jury convicted a man and woman last Friday night for their roles in a series of armed commercial robberies.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, between October 1, 2021, and November 15, 2021, Norfolk residents, Brandon D. Chavis, 36, and Melissa E. Beasley, 43, robbed 7-Elevens, Subway Sandwich Shops, and gas stations armed with a firearm. The jury received evidence related to 12 robberies or attempted robberies committed by Chavis and Beasley throughout the cities of Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Newport News, Yorktown, and Portsmouth.
Beasley drove Chavis in her gray Volvo SUV to each robbery. Chavis wore a black hoodie, black mask, black gloves, dark jeans, brown work boots, and sometimes an orange reflective vest. Chavis entered the stores, brandished a firearm at the clerks, and fled to Beasley waiting in the getaway car. On one occasion, Beasley cashed one of the stolen lottery tickets just 33 minutes after Chavis robbed it from a Speedway. On November 15, 2021, during an interaction with Chavis and Beasley, Norfolk Police recovered the firearm Chavis used in the robberies and seized Beasley’s gray Volvo SUV.
Chavis and Beasley will be sentenced on September 27. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Ramin Fatehi, Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney; Brian Dugan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; Mark G. Solesky, Chief of Chesapeake Police; Orin Gallop, Interim Chief of Hampton Police; Steve R. Drew, Chief of Newport News Police; Mark Talbot, Chief of Norfolk Police; Paul Neudigate, Chief of Virginia Beach Police; and Stephen Jenkins, Chief of Portsmouth Police, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Wilson Hanes accepted the verdict.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham Stolle and Assistant United States Attorney Joe Depadilla are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-83.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Role in Federal Car Theft RingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – GREGORY BUTLER (“BUTLER”), age 37, was sentenced on May 18, 2023, for conspiring to transport and sell stolen vehicles in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 371, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, BUTLER and his co-conspirators stole cars from car dealerships and rental car facilities in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and George. After the cards were stolen, BUTLER and his co-conspirators retitled the cards under fraudulent Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINS) with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles. After the cars were retitled and cloned with fraudulent VINS, the defendants resold the cars to buyers in the New Orleans metro area at discounted prices.
U.S. District Court Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown sentenced BUTLER to serve one year and one day in prison, to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release and imposed a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. The court also set a restitution hearing for June 15, 2023.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security, the Louisiana State Police, the D’Iberville Police Department, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Spiro G. Latsis and Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KEITH BOURGEOIS pled guilty on May 18, 2023 to violating the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts before United States District Judge Eldon Fallon, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, on April 21, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant of BOURGEOIS’s residence. During the search, agents seized drug paraphernalia from the apartment, including scales, packaging material, and razor blades. Agents also seized 27.054 grams of cocaine base and .645 grams of fentanyl from inside the apartment. Law enforcement also seized four firearms, several boxes of ammunition, and several thousand dollars in cash.
BOURGEOIS pled guilty to Count 1 of the superseding bill of information, that charged him with possession with intent to distribute cocaine base in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). BOURGEOIS also pled guilty to Count 2, that charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
For Count 1, BOURGEOIS faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a period of at least 3 years of supervised release. For Count 2, BOURGEOIS faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. For each count, BOURGEOIS also faces payment of $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Louisiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan L. Shih, Melissa Bücher, Rachal Cassagne, and Lynn Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Weapons ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on May 17, 2023, KENDALL THEARD, age 26, resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to one count of a four-count indictment for drug violations. Count 1 charges THEARD with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. THEARD’s sentencing is set for September 6, 2023.
In Count 1 of the indictment, THEARD is charged with possession with the intent to distribute marijuana in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D). THEARD faces a maximum sentence of 5 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, a period of at least 2 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. Additionally, in Count 1, THEARD is charged with possession with the intent to distribute cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). THEARD faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, a period of at least 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Jersey Man Sentenced to 6.75 Years in Prison for Schemes to Steal California Unemployment Insurance Benefits and Economic Injury Disaster LoansRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Eric Michael Jaklitsch, 40, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, was sentenced today to six years and nine months in prison for two related COVID-19 fraud cases, one case alleging wire fraud and aggravated identity theft in California and the other case alleging wire fraud in New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
“This defendant carried out two separate wire fraud schemes to bilk the federal government out of millions of dollars during the Covid-19 pandemic,” U.S. Attorney Talbert said. “Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s conduct that has harmed the federal government along with all the individuals whose information was used in the fraudulent applications. Our office is proud to be included as a part of the California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force, and we remain committed to leading investigations and vigorously prosecuting those who commit COVID-19 fraud.”
“Eric Jaklitsch used stolen identities to fraudulently obtain millions of taxpayer dollars meant to help unemployed workers make ends meet during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of prompt action by federal law enforcement, Jaklitsch’s scheme was curtailed. Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that those who defraud the unemployment insurance system will be held accountable for their actions. We remain fully committed to investigating these types of crimes with our law enforcement partners,” said Quentin Heiden, Special Agent-in-Charge, Western Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
“The FBI, in collaboration with our state and federal partners, exposed and dismantled this major fraud scheme. This scheme aimed to defraud the United States Government, the State of California, and unsuspecting residents of our state. Eric Jaklitsch represents one of several individuals who sought to take advantage of vulnerable victims during the recent pandemic,” said FBI Sacramento Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan. “Today’s sentencing of Jaklitsch marks a significant milestone in the joint efforts of the FBI, the United States Attorney’s Office, and our partners within the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force.”
DHS Inspector General, Dr. Joseph V. Cuffari, stated, “Eric Jaklitsch defrauded government programs meant to help Americans at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. DHS OIG will continue to prioritize pandemic-related fraud investigations and work with our law enforcement partners to bring perpetrators to justice.”
The California EDD Case
According to court documents, between October 2020 and December 2021, Jaklitsch executed his first fraud scheme by filing at least 180 fraudulent unemployment insurance claims with California Employment Development Department (EDD), seeking Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and other benefits under the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. During the scheme, Jaklitsch collected personally identifiable information (PII) of numerous individuals from the dark web — including names, birth dates, and Social Security numbers — and used their identities to file fraudulent unemployment insurance claims. Typically these unemployment insurance claims were fraudulent because the claimants were not unemployed, they were not eligible for California unemployment insurance benefits, or Jaklitsch never had authority to file claims on their behalf.
Since at least October 2020, EDD has partnered with ID.me — a private company used by the EDD for ID verification of claimants — to implement a system for verifying claimant identities before EDD can process unemployment insurance claims. An internal investigation conducted by ID.me identified Jaklitsch as a person conducting a possible fraud scheme and referred the case to federal law enforcement.
In executing his fraudulent scheme, Jaklitsch submitted false information to ID.me. Jaklitsch requested that the unemployment insurance benefits be mailed to various addresses under his control. EDD approved dozens of the fraudulent claims and authorized Bank of America to mail out debit cards containing unemployment insurance benefits. Jaklitsch then activated the debit cards and used them to withdraw the benefits at ATMs. The scheme sought over $7.5 million in unemployment insurance benefits and caused EDD and the United States to incur actual losses of at least $3.4 million.
The New Jersey SBA Case
For the second case, according to court documents, between July 2020 and August 2020, Jaklitsch executed a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA) by fraudulently acquiring COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), which were loans meant to provide low-interest financing and grants to small businesses, renters, and homeowners in regions affected by declared disasters, like the COVID-19 pandemic.
To obtain an EIDL, a qualifying business applied to the SBA and provided certain information about its operations through an online portal. The EIDL approval process required applicants to supply minimal eligibility documentation and to affirm that the information in the application was true and correct under the penalty of perjury and applicable criminal statutes. The amount of an EIDL was based, in part, on the information provided by the applicant, including the business’s gross revenue and cost of goods sold. Qualifying entities could use EIDL funds only on certain expenses, including fixed debts, payroll, and accounts payable.
Jaklitsch or one or more co-schemers knowingly submitted fraudulent EIDL loan applications to the SBA in the names of entities that did not authorize the applications. The false information included, among other things, that (a) the schemers had the authority to submit the loan applications on behalf of the applying entities, (b) the entities’ gross revenues; (c) the entities’ costs of goods sold; and (d) bank account information purportedly belonging to the entities. These fraudulent applications sought and received over $1.2 million in EIDL loan funds that were sent to at least 14 separate bank accounts. Jaklitsch used a cellphone application to withdraw over $777,000 in cash out of the $1.2 million.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General, the Department of Homeland Security – Office of the Inspector General – Covid Fraud Unit, and the California Employment Development Department (EDD) – Investigation Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise N. Yasinow prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of a California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force operation, one of three interagency COVID-19 fraud strike force teams established by the U.S. Department of Justice. The California Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources in the Eastern and Central Districts of California and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces use prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.
Montana Man Sentenced for Assault on Flight Crew on Flight to Juneau, AlaskaRead the Press Release
JUNEAU – A Montana man was sentenced on May 19, 2023, for assaulting a flight crew member on a commercial airline flight while the plane was landing at the Juneau airport.
According to court documents, on April 1, 2023, Eric Richard Bruns, 42, was a passenger aboard Alaska Airlines Flight 67 with service from Sitka, Alaska to Juneau, Alaska. While the aircraft was in flight, Bruns started acting erratically and refused crew members instructions to remain seated while the plane was on approach to the Juneau airport. Bruns remained standing in the aisle and began moving towards the front of the aircraft and was physically obstructed by the flight crew member. Bruns made verbal threats to assault the flight crew member and physically tried to shove his way past the flight crew member, striking the crew member with his hands. At that time, while the aircraft was landing at the Juneau airport, two federal law enforcement officers and a civilian assisted the flight crew member and physically restrained Bruns in an unoccupied seat until the plane arrived at the gate.
The defendant pled guilty on May 17, 2023, before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew S. Scoble to an Information charging Assault in the Special Aircraft Jurisdiction of the United States, in violation 49 U.S.C. § 46506 and 18 U.S.C. § 113. He was sentenced to time served.
“The safety and security of air travel is paramount, and we will continue to prosecute offenders in order to ensure that all passengers are able to travel without fear of assault or harm,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker. “We hope that this case will serve as a warning to others who may consider committing similar acts in the future, and that it will encourage everyone to follow the rules and regulations designed to keep our skies safe and secure.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt prosecuted the case.
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Minnesota Man Sentenced to a 300 Months Prison Sentence Following Shooting with Utah Law Enforcement OfficersRead the Press Release
Salt Lake City, Utah – A Minnesota man was sentenced today to 25 years’ imprisonment following a 2021 shooting incident with Utah Highway Patrol troopers. The defendant admitted that he discharged a firearm during and in relation to carjacking and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute offenses.According to court documents, on May 19, 2021, James Howard Klein, 35, of Chaska, Minnesota, was stopped by deputies in Juab County off Interstate-15 for a traffic violation. During a search of the Klein’s vehicle, deputies found nine pounds of methamphetamine and a loaded Hi-Point C9 9mm handgun. As deputies continued their search, Klein was placed in the front passenger side of a Juab County Sheriff deputy’s vehicle. Unhandcuffed, Klein slid to the driver’s side of the deputy’s vehicle and took off at a high rate of speed until losing control and disabling the vehicle at the next exit. UHP troopers, who were following Klein and signaling him to stop the vehicle, arrived behind the deputy’s stolen vehicle. Klein exited the vehicle and pulled out a secured Colt Defense 5.56 rifle and started shooting at UHP troopers who returned fire. Klein flagged down two bystanders in a white Ford Escape while holding the rifle. Threatening the bystanders with the gun, he attempted to take their vehicle and shoot them. As the bystanders escaped, Klein fired shots at their vehicle several times, eventually striking the passenger in the leg. Klein continued to shoot at troopers before he was struck by a bullet in the leg. Attempting to escape on foot, Klein hid by a nearby river. Additional law enforcement units arrived, located Klein and took him into custody. In addition to his 300 month’s imprisonment, Klein was ordered to serve five years of supervised release after his prison sentence.
“You engaged in some of the most egregious offenses I have ever seen during my time on the bench,” said United States District Court Judge Jill N. Parrish.
“The valiant UHP troopers engaged in a harrowing firefight with Mr. Klein that could have turned deadly at any point. Mr. Klein’s carjacking activities could have resulted in deadly consequences for the victims in this case as well,” said Assistant United States Attorney, Stewart M. Young, during sentencing. “We are grateful that no one perished because of Mr. Klein’s actions.”
“Mr. Klein’s brazen actions demonstrate how desperate he was to evade arrest at the expense of law enforcement and public safety,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the Salt Lake City FBI. “This sentencing is an example of how the FBI and our partners work together to ensure violent offenders like Mr. Klein are not free to roam our streets for a long time.”
Utah County Officer Involved Critical Incident Response Team (OICI)U.S. Attorney, Trina A. Higgins, of the District of Utah made the announcement.
The case was investigated jointly by The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Utah Highway Patrol, Juab County Sheriff’s Office, and the Utah County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys, Stephen L. Nelson and Stewart M. Young of the District of Utah prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Michigan Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Monroe Avant, 33, of Inkster, Michigan, was sentenced today to three years and six months in prison, to be followed by three years years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 13, 2021, law enforcement officers responded to a shooting on the 1600 block of 11th Avenue in Huntington. Officers encountered a vehicle with two men passed out in the driver and front passenger seats. Officers saw that the passenger had a semi-automatic pistol in his waistband. Avant admitted that he was the passenger and possessed a Taurus Model 709 9mm handgun.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Avant is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his felony conviction for first-degree robbery in Cabell County Circuit Court on May 6, 2014.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:21-cr-245.
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Mexican National Sentenced to over 11 Years in Prison for Drug Lab in MaderaRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Jose Monge-Ponce, 33, of Mexico, was sentenced today to 11 years and four months in prison for conspiring to manufacture, to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and marijuana, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in January 2019, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at an unoccupied residence in Madera and found Ponce and his co-defendants, Oscar Rene Marrot-Garcia, 30, of Chowchilla and Francisco Alcantar-Miranda, 34, of Mexico. Inside the residence, the detectives found a methamphetamine lab, along with 22.4 pounds of methamphetamine in solution, 17 pounds of finished methamphetamine, 4 pounds of heroin, 1 pound of cocaine, 24 pounds of marijuana, and $18,000 in cash. Ponce was in possession of a loaded unregistered firearm, three cellphones, and pay-owe sheets. On Feb. 13, 2023, Ponce pleaded guilty to the conspiracy.
Alcantar and Marrot also previously entered guilty pleas and were sentenced to 10 years and six and a half years in prison, respectively.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Madera County Sheriff’s Office Narcotic Enforcement Team (MADNET) and the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) High Impact Investigation Team (HITT), consisting of agents of Homeland Security Investigations, the California Department of Justice, the California Highway Patrol, the Sheriff’s Offices of Fresno, Tulare, and King Counties, and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen A. Escobar prosecuted the case.
Mexican National Found at Massive Merced County Marijuana Cultivation Operation Sentenced for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Roberto Carlos Leon-Garcia (Leon), 49, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for being in possession of a firearm while being in the United States without lawful status, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Nov. 5, 2018, Leon was encountered during the execution of a federal search warrant related to a marijuana grow in Dos Palos. Leon indicated he resided on the property, which was leased by someone else. Inside his residence, agents found a New England Westinghouse rifle, along with three 7.62 mm caliber rounds that Leon was not authorized to possess because he did not have lawful status in the United States. Leon had previously been removed from the United States to Mexico on three occasions.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Merced County Sheriff’s Office and the Chowchilla Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar prosecuted the case.
Methuen Man Pleads Guilty to Disaster Fund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Methuen man pleaded guilty on May 18, 2023 in federal court in Boston to using stolen identities to fraudulently obtain Economic Injury Disaster Loan funds from the Small Business Administration (SBA) and to launder the funds.
Ramon Joseph Cruz, Jr., 27, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and four counts of wire fraud and aiding and abetting. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing for Aug. 20, 2023. Cruz was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in December 2020 along with alleged co-conspirator Darwyn Joseph. The defendants were subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2021.According to the charging documents, the defendants were involved in a conspiracy to use stolen identity information of United States citizens to apply for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans. Specifically, Cruz and, allegedly, Joseph used stolen identity information of U.S. citizens to open fraudulent bank accounts which were then linked to other fraudulent bank accounts set up to receive the SBA funds. Cruz and, allegedly, Joseph also received some of the debit cards associated with fraudulent bank accounts into which SBA funds were deposited, and then laundered those funds by using them to purchase large numbers of iPhones for re-sale. Cruz and, allegedly, Joseph also wired a portion of the funds to the Dominican Republic in furtherance of the scheme.
Over $452,000 in SBA funds were fraudulently obtained in connection with this scheme. Approximately $250,000 of this money was used allegedly to purchase iPhones in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
The charges of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Michael J. Krol, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elianna Nuzum and Adam Deitch of Levy’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.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.The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare Agrees to Settle Allegations That It Violated the Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – Memphis-based Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare has agreed to resolve allegations that it violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by failing to provide effective communication to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, announced United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis. As part of the settlement, Methodist will pay $5,000 in penalties to the United States and $18,000 to the complainant.
“We are committed to enforcing the rights of persons with disabilities in Tennessee,” said United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis. “It is vital that individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can communicate with health care professionals and the Americans with Disabilities Act requires as much.”
The United States alleged that on multiple occasions, Methodist failed to provide the complainant, a deaf individual, with an on-site American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, and in one incident Methodist used the complainant’s minor child to interpret on her behalf, which the United States contends violates the ADA. The United States also alleged that the use of an interpreter was necessary for effective communication and the lack of a requested interpreter resulted in the complainant either rescheduling medical care for her children or proceeding without the assistance of an interpreter or using other auxiliary aids.
During the investigation, the United States also became aware of additional complaints concerning Methodist’s failure to provide effective communication to several other individuals who are deaf at various Methodist locations. Under the terms of the Settlement Agreement, Methodist has agreed to provide effective communication to its patients and companions on a timely basis and will train its personnel and physicians as to effective communication at multiple hospital locations. Methodist also will designate an ADA liaison who can be contacted 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by patients and/or companions who are deaf or hard of hearing. Significant reporting requirements have also been instituted during the two-year term of the Settlement Agreement, including a requirement to notify the United States of any complaints related to the failure to provide effective communication to deaf or hard of hearing patients and their companions.
The civil claims settled by this Settlement Agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kara F. Sweet investigated the complaint and negotiated the Settlement Agreement.
The Department of Justice has a number of publications available to assist entities in complying with the ADA including a Technical Assistance Publication entitled: ADA Requirements: Effective Communication and a Business Brief on Communicating with People Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in Hospital Settings. For more information on the ADA and to access these publications, visit http://www.ada.gov or call the Justice Department’s toll-free ADA information Line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TDD). ADA complaints may be filed by email to [email protected].
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Man Convicted of Torture and Exporting Weapons Parts and Related Services to IraqRead the Press Release
A federal jury convicted a Pennsylvania man on May 19 for numerous crimes, including the torture of an Estonian citizen in 2015 in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, in connection with the operation of an illegal weapons manufacturing plant in Kurdistan.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Ross Roggio, 54, of Stroudsburg, arranged for Kurdish soldiers to abduct and detain the victim at a Kurdish military compound where Roggio suffocated the victim with a belt, threatened to cut off one of his fingers, and directed Kurdish soldiers to repeatedly beat, tase, choke, and otherwise physically and mentally abuse the victim over a 39-day period. The victim was employed at a weapons factory that Roggio was developing in the Kurdistan region of Iraq that was intended to manufacture M4 automatic rifles and Glock 9mm pistols.
In connection with the weapons factory project, which included Roggio providing training to foreign persons in the operation, assembly, and manufacturing of the M4 automatic rifle, Roggio also illegally exported firearm parts that were controlled for export by the Departments of State and Commerce.
“Roggio brutally tortured another human being to prevent interference with his illegal activities,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Thanks to the courage of the victim and other witnesses, the hard work of U.S. law enforcement, and the assistance of Estonian authorities, he will now be held accountable for his cruelty.”
“Today’s guilty verdict demonstrates that Roggio’s brutal acts of directing and participating in the torture of an employee over the course of 39 days by Kurdish soldiers could not avoid justice,” said U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. “We thank all the prosecutors and law enforcement agents who worked tirelessly to address these acts that occurred in Iraq.”
“Today’s milestone conviction is the result of the extraordinary courage of the victim, who came forward after the defendant inflicted unspeakable pain on him for more than a month,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “Torture is among the most heinous crimes the FBI investigates, and together with our partners at the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, we will relentlessly pursue justice.”
“U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is firmly dedicated to pursuing those who commit human rights violations, like Roggio, to ensure perpetrators face justice for their atrocities,” said Deputy Director and Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director Tae D. Johnson of ICE. “Our investigators will continue to work tirelessly with government partners so these horrendous acts do not go without consequence.”
“The illegal export of firearms parts and tools from the United States often goes hand in hand with other criminal activities, such as the charge of torture on which the jury voted to convict the defendant,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Carson of the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), Office of Export Enforcement, New York Field Office. “I commend our law enforcement colleagues for their dedication to bringing justice in this case.”
Roggio was convicted of torture, conspiracy to commit torture, conspiring to commit an offense against the United States, exporting weapons parts and services to Iraq without the approval of the Department of State, exporting weapons tools to Iraq without the approval of the Department of Commerce, smuggling goods, wire fraud, and money laundering. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 23 and faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Roggio is the second defendant to be convicted of torture since the federal torture statute went into effect in 1994.
The FBI and HSI investigated the torture and were joined in investigating the export control violations related to the firearms manufacturing equipment by the Department of Commerce’s BIS Office of Export Enforcement.
Trial Attorney Patrick Jasperse of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, Trial Attorney Scott A. Claffee of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd K. Hinkley for the Middle District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case. The Estonian Internal Security Service, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and the Pennsylvania State Police also provided valuable assistance.
Members of the public who have information about human rights violators in the United States are urged to contact U.S. law enforcement through the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI or the HSI tip line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE, or complete the FBI online tip form or the ICE online tip form.
Man Convicted of Torture and Exporting Weapons Parts and Related Services to IraqRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – A federal jury convicted a Pennsylvania man on May 19 for numerous crimes, including the torture of an Estonian citizen in 2015 in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, in connection with the operation of an illegal weapons manufacturing plant in Kurdistan.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Ross Roggio, 54, of Stroudsburg, arranged for Kurdish soldiers to abduct and detain the victim at a Kurdish military compound where Roggio suffocated the victim with a belt, threatened to cut off one of his fingers, and directed Kurdish soldiers to repeatedly beat, tase, choke, and otherwise physically and mentally abuse the victim over a 39-day period. The victim was employed at a weapons factory that Roggio was developing in the Kurdistan region of Iraq that was intended to manufacture M4 automatic rifles and Glock 9mm pistols.
In connection with the weapons factory project, which included Roggio providing training to foreign persons in the operation, assembly, and manufacturing of the M4 automatic rifle, Roggio also illegally exported firearm parts that were controlled for export by the Departments of State and Commerce.
“Roggio brutally tortured another human being to prevent interference with his illegal activities,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Thanks to the courage of the victim and other witnesses, the hard work of U.S. law enforcement, and the assistance of Estonian authorities, he will now be held accountable for his cruelty.”
“Today’s guilty verdict demonstrates that Roggio’s brutal acts of directing and participating in the torture of an employee over the course of 39 days by Kurdish soldiers could not avoid justice,” said U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. “We thank all the prosecutors and law enforcement agents who worked tirelessly to address these acts that occurred in Iraq.”
“Today’s milestone conviction is the result of the extraordinary courage of the victim, who came forward after the defendant inflicted unspeakable pain on him for more than a month,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “Torture is among the most heinous crimes the FBI investigates, and together with our partners at the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, we will relentlessly pursue justice.”
“U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is firmly dedicated to pursuing those who commit human rights violations, like Roggio, to ensure perpetrators face justice for their atrocities,” said Deputy Director and Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director Tae D. Johnson of ICE. “Our investigators will continue to work tirelessly with government partners so these horrendous acts do not go without consequence.”
“The illegal export of firearms parts and tools from the United States often goes hand in hand with other criminal activities, such as the charge of torture on which the jury voted to convict the defendant,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Carson of the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), Office of Export Enforcement, New York Field Office. “I commend our law enforcement colleagues for their dedication to bringing justice in this case.”
Roggio was convicted of torture, conspiracy to commit torture, conspiring to commit an offense against the United States, exporting weapons parts and services to Iraq without the approval of the U.S. Department of State, exporting weapons tools to Iraq without the approval of the U.S. Department of Commerce, smuggling goods, wire fraud, and money laundering. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 23 and faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Roggio is the second defendant to be convicted of torture since the federal torture statute went into effect in 1994.
The FBI and HSI investigated the torture and were joined in investigating the export control violations related to the firearms manufacturing equipment by the Department of Commerce’s BIS Office of Export Enforcement.
Trial Attorney Patrick Jasperse of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, Trial Attorney Scott A. Claffee of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd K. Hinkley for the Middle District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case. The Estonian Internal Security Service, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and the Pennsylvania State Police also provided valuable assistance.
Members of the public who have information about human rights violators in the United States are urged to contact U.S. law enforcement through the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI or the HSI tip line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE, or complete the FBI online tip form or the ICE online tip form.
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Louisville Men Sentenced in Federal Court for Multi-Drug Trafficking Conspiracy and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Three members of a large-scale, multi-drug trafficking conspiracy were recently sentenced for their roles in the conspiracy and for firearms offenses. Two were also sentenced for using a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime resulting in murder.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Bryant Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office, Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department, Sheriff John E. Aubrey Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and Chief Richard Sanders of the Jeffersontown Police Department made the announcement.
Dwayne C. Castle, 49, of Louisville, was sentenced on May 19, 2023, to 30 years in prison, followed by a 20-year term of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute controlled substances to include heroin and methamphetamine and for use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime resulting in murder.
Javier H. Rodriguez, 32, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced on May 18, 2023, to 40 years in prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, for conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances to include heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana and for use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime resulting in murder.
Charles Orlando Cater, 47, of Louisville, was sentenced on April 11, 2023, to 21 years and 10 months in prison, followed by an 8-year term of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute controlled substances to include heroin and marijuana and for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, Rodriguez was the leader and organizer of a sophisticated drug trafficking organization distributing kilogram amounts of controlled substances, including heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana, primarily in the Louisville Metro area. Castle was his “right-hand man” who operated multiple stash house locations storing and distributing controlled substances on behalf of the organization. Cater assisted the organization and primarily acted as a “bodyguard” for Rodriguez. On January 16, 2018, Rodriguez and his organization arranged the sale of a kilogram of heroin to individuals in the Victory Park neighborhood for $70,000. That sale, however, became a robbery and, following a shootout in broad daylight, the kilogram of heroin was stolen from Rodriguez, Castle, and Cater. In retribution for the stolen heroin, Rodriguez ordered the murder of Vincente Ramirez. On January 20, 2018, Rodriguez, Castle, and Cater all traveled together to a Newburg neighborhood where Ramirez was shot to death in his vehicle. Through a collaborative investigation between federal and state agencies lead by DEA and LMPD Homicide, Rodriguez, Castle, and Cater were all arrested on February 23, 2018, and subsequently federally indicted for drug trafficking and murder in furtherance of drug trafficking. At the time their arrests, Castle and Cater blamed the other as the actual shooter of Ramirez. On August 19, 2019, Castle, pursuant to a plea agreement, entered a guilty plea to all the indicted charges. On October 18, 2022, Rodriguez, without a plea agreement, entered a guilty plea to all the indicted charges. Following a nine-day jury trial in November 2022 Cater was convicted of the drug trafficking conspiracy and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon but acquitted of murder in furtherance of the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the DEA, FBI, ATF, the IRS Criminal Investigation, the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jeffersontown Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mac Shannon and Rob Bonar prosecuted 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.
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Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women Announces National Protocol for Intimate Partner Violence Medical Forensic ExaminationsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced the release of the National Protocol for Intimate Partner Violence Medical Forensic Examinations. The protocol will guide the clinical practice of conducting comprehensive assessments for patients experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) that prioritize the patient’s health and well-being. Acting Director Allison Randall of the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women made the announcement at the 2023 Conference on Crimes Against Women in Dallas.
IPV is a significant issue that poses considerable health, social, and legal challenges within the United States. It impacts individuals of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, abilities and socioeconomic statuses.
Conducting medical forensic exams within a trauma-informed framework is crucial to our nation’s response to IPV. They play a vital role not just in providing immediate medical attention, but also in supporting the long-term recovery, safety and well-being of victims. These examinations offer prompt and necessary medical care to victims, identifying even non-apparent injuries. They also collect critical evidence that can be used in legal proceedings. During the exam, victims are also given access to essential resources such as counseling and safety planning services. This provides a crucial lifeline of support, aiding their journey toward recovery and safety.
“The protocol helps ensure that victims will be cared for with compassion and respect after an assault,” said Acting Director Randall. “Clinicians have the chance to offer patients experiencing IPV an assortment of choices, empowering them to make the most suitable decisions for their own welfare and that of their loved ones. The evidence collected in the exam can also strengthen criminal cases to hold offenders accountable.”
The protocol, developed in a collaborative effort with the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) and an array of project partners across disciplines – health care, justice, victim advocacy, law enforcement, victim services and leading national entities – provides comprehensive guidance for patient care. It emphasizes delivering trauma-informed, patient-centered care across various health care settings and supports a gender-affirming approach to care. The protocol underscores the crucial role of accessible language and effective communication, and advocates for the use of interpretation and translation services to guarantee equitable access. It outlines protocols for screening IPV patients in all settings and emphasizes the provision of care in different age groups, from adolescents to older adults.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner and reported an intimate partner violence-related impact during their lifetime. The protocol serves as an integral tool in bolstering the Justice Department’s endeavor to safeguard survivors of IPV as well as keeping communities nationwide safe.
Justice Department Secures Settlement with New Jersey IT Recruiting Firm to Resolve Immigration-Related Discrimination ClaimsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that it has secured a settlement agreement with Infosoft Solutions Inc., a New Jersey IT recruiting and contracting company operating as KForce Tech LLC. The settlement resolves the department’s determination that Infosoft violated the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by posting six discriminatory job advertisements that solicited applications only from non-U.S. citizens who needed visa sponsorship and, in one case, also sought applicants only from India.
“When employers advertise jobs only to applicants from a certain country or who need temporary visas, they discourage all other eligible workers and deny them a fair chance to be considered,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division will not tolerate national origin or citizenship status discrimination and is committed to knocking down these unlawful discriminatory barriers.”
The department’s investigation determined that between July 2021 and August 2021, Infosoft posted at least six job advertisements inviting applications only from applicants who wanted sponsorship to work in the United States or who already had an employment-based temporary visa. One of the six advertisements also required the candidates to be from India. In doing so, the company deterred workers with permission to work in the United States without sponsorship (such as asylees, refugees, lawful permanent residents, U.S. nationals and U.S. citizens) from applying to the job advertisements and being fairly considered for the employment opportunities. The INA’s anti-discrimination provision generally prohibits employers from recruiting or refusing to hire workers based on their citizenship status or national origin.
Under the settlement, Infosoft will pay $25,500 in civil penalties to the United States. The agreement also requires the company to train its recruiters on the INA’s requirements, revise its employment policies and be subject to departmental monitoring and reporting requirements.
The Civil Rights Division’s Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER) is responsible for enforcing the anti-discrimination provision of the INA. Among other things, the statute prohibits discrimination based on citizenship status and national origin in hiring, firing or recruitment or referral for a fee; unfair documentary practices; retaliation; and intimidation.
Learn more about IER’s work and how to get assistance through this brief video. Find more information on how employers can avoid citizenship status discrimination on IER’s website. Applicants or employees who believe they were discriminated against based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin in hiring, firing, recruitment or during the employment eligibility verification process (Form I-9 and E-Verify); or subjected to retaliation, may file a charge. The public can also call IER’s worker hotline at 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); call IER’s employer hotline at 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); email [email protected]; sign up for a free webinar; or visit IER’s English and Spanish websites. Subscribe for email updates from IER. View the Spanish translation of this press release here.
Spanish version
Joint State and Federal Operation Seizes Kilograms of Drugs, Multiple Firearms, and Arrests Five in Southeastern N.C.Read the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Today, U.S. Attorney Michael Easley, along with federal and local law enforcement, provided information related to ongoing and coordinated efforts to target drug distribution in Sampson and Duplin Counties. Last week, a joint operation took place with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI), the Sampson, Duplin and New Hanover County Sheriffs’ Offices, and the Jacksonville, Goldsboro, and Wilmington Police Departments. A primary objective of this operation was to target suspected armed drug dealers.
As part of the operation, search warrants and arrest warrants were executed at multiple locations in Duplin and Sampson counties and the following items were seized:
- Approximately eight pounds of suspected cocaine;
- Over four ounces of suspected fentanyl;
- Over an ounce of suspected crack cocaine;
- Drug packing materials;
- Drug distribution materials;
- Approximately $10,000 cash; and
- Multiple firearms and ammunition.
“Our office is working closely with our state and local partners to get illegal drugs and guns off the streets and put those fueling the drug epidemic behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “We are using every tool available to make our communities safer.”
Sampson County Sheriff Jimmy Thornton stated, “I am thankful for the cooperation of our federal and state partners in combating the drug epidemic. While these seizures don’t solve the problem, they send the message that this activity is not welcomed or tolerated in our community.”
“Drug trafficking too often fuels the violent crime law enforcement is working hard to address,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims. “Disrupting these networks has a major impact on fighting violent gun crime.”
“Dangerous drugs have taken a terrible toll on our communities,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “Drug traffickers should know they will face the consequences of their actions.”
According to court documents, on the same day the search warrants were executed, the following individuals were arrested on federal charges:
- Christopher Hill, 42, of Sampson County, distribution of methamphetamine;
- Cheri Boyette, 45, of Duplin County, distribution of methamphetamine;
- Peyton McBride, 42, of Sampson County distribution of cocaine;
- Rashawn Ray McDuffie, 43, of Duplin County, conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine;
- Dennis Ray Taylor, 57, of Duplin County, distribution of methamphetamine.
An indictment/criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Craig Alexander Halstead, 36, of Huntington, pleaded guilty today to receipt of child pornography.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Halstead admitted to receiving 87,993 digital media files of child pornography via peer-to-peer file sharing programs from about August 2, 2019, until about August 18, 2022. Halstead further admitted that one of the digital media files was a video of an adult male sexually assaulting a prepubescent female.
On May 20, 2021, Halstead possessed 3,970 images and 443 videos on his laptop and external hard drive depicting minor children subjected to sexually explicit conduct. Halstead admitted that many of the images and videos depict prepubescent minors and that several of the images and videos depict known child victims.
On or about August 30, 2022, Halstead possessed 3,188 images and videos of child pornography in Huntington. Over 400 of those images and videos depict known child victims. Halstead admitted that the images included infants subjected to sadistic or masochistic conduct. Halstead further admitted to accessing and receiving digital media files of child pornography using peer-to-peer programs on November 29, 2022.
Halstead is scheduled to be sentenced on August 21, 2023, and faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison, five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:22-cr-231.
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Hacker Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Stealing Customer Credit Card NumbersRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Chirag Patel, 38, most recently of Norfolk, Virginia, was sentenced on May 8, 2023, by United States District Judge G. Murray Snow to 51 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He also was ordered to pay $87,522.25 in restitution. Patel pleaded guilty to Computer Fraud.
On numerous occasions between August 2017 and July 2020, Patel hacked into the Phoenix-based computers of an international hospitality company. Patel fraudulently transferred and redeemed customer reward points from the company’s customer loyalty program. He also stole credit card numbers and other personally identifying information (PII) from customers and loyalty program members, which were stored in the company’s computers. Patel took screenshots of customers’ and members’ information, which included credit card numbers and other PII, and saved the screenshots to a Google Drive he controlled. In total, between August 2017 and July 2020, Patel stole and possessed more than 1,200 credit card numbers. Patel used some of the stolen credit card numbers to make unauthorized purchases and also tried to sell some of the stolen credit card numbers.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, National Security Section, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00699-PHX-GMS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-073_Patel# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Four KC Metro Men Indicted for Illegally Trafficking Machineguns, Other FirearmsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three Kansas City, Mo., men and an Independence, Mo., man have been indicted by a federal grand jury for illegally selling machine guns and other firearms, some of which have been linked to prior shootings.
Antonio Manning, 21, his brother, Sheron Lamont Manning, 20, and Michael Dewayne Hardy, 20, all of Kansas City, Mo., and Dejohuan Mietz Huntley, 25, of Independence, Mo., were charged in a 23-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Wednesday, May 17. That indictment was unsealed and made public today upon the arrest and initial court appearance of Antonio Manning.
The federal indictment alleges that all four defendants participated in a conspiracy to illegally traffic in firearms from May 24, 2022, to April 20, 2023. The 22 firearms included five Glock 9mm handguns, five Glock .40-caliber handguns, nine Anderson Manufacturing AR-15 style, multi-caliber pistols, a Romar/Cugir Mini Draco 7.62 x 39 caliber pistol, a Century Arms 7.62 x 39 caliber pistol, and a Glock .45-caliber pistol. Nine of the firearms allegedly were altered into machineguns.
In addition to the conspiracy, they are each charged with engaging in firearm sales without a license.
According to a detention motion filed by the government, the firearms allegedly were sold to a confidential informant monitored by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Investigators have linked several of the firearms identified in the trafficking conspiracy to other crimes of violence by utilizing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (“NIBIN”). For example, according to the government’s detention motion, a Glock .45-caliber sold by Sheron Manning to the confidential informant was linked to a shooting at the Winnwood Skate Center, 4426 N.E. Winn Road in Kansas City, Mo., on Nov. 13, 2022. A Glock .40-caliber pistol sold by Sheron Manning was linked to an occupied residence that was struck with gunfire on Feb. 5, 2022, and another Glock .40-caliber pistol sold by Sheron Manning was linked to a shooting at North 59th and Cemech Road in Kansas City, Kansas, on Jan. 20, 2023.
A Glock 9mm pistol sold to the confidential informant by Huntley was linked to a homicide that occurred on April 9, 2019. In that incident, witnesses reported that two or three young black males armed with handguns and an AK-47-type rifle began shooting at a residence while individuals were sitting on the front steps of the house. One victim was shot and died at the hospital as a result of the gunshot wound. The same firearm was also involved in shooting the rear passenger window of a vehicle on Oct. 16, 2019.
Antonio Manning is also charged with three counts of trafficking firearms and one count of possessing an unregistered machinegun.
Sheron Manning is also charged with five counts of trafficking firearms and four counts of possessing unregistered machineguns.
Hardy is also charged with one count of trafficking a firearm and one count of possessing an unregistered machinegun.
Huntley is also charged with two counts of trafficking firearms, two counts of possessing unregistered machineguns and two counts of being a felon in possession of firearms.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Former Naval Police Officer Sentenced for Making Threats in Interstate CommerceRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former naval police officer at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in New Hampshire was sentenced on May 18, 2023 in federal court in Boston for making threatening communications to his ex-wife and her mother in Iowa.
Luis De Leon, 30, of Middleton, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 18 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On March 8, 2023, De Leon pleaded guilty to three counts of making threats in interstate commerce.
On or about April 30, 2022, De Leon made a threatening phone call to his ex-wife in Iowa from a mobile telephone belonging to another individual. Specifically, during the call, De Leon made several threatening statements including, “You’re gonna f****** pay! Do you understand!? There will be death! There will be war in the street! You wanna to go war!? I’ll take you to f****** war!”
Between May and June 2022, De Leon sent two letters containing threats to his ex-wife’s mother in Iowa. In the letters, De Leon wrote, among other things, “I’ll be heading over there soon […] God help you and your dysfunctional family if you try and stop me. I won’t be alone either just so you know and that’s for your safety NOT MINE!!! […] If you don’t believe me just look where I’m sending this from. I don’t really have much else to lose, and do you know what men with nothing left to lose usually do?”
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy H. Kistner of Levy’s National Security Unit prosecuted the case.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Morganfield Felon for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Owensboro, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green, Kentucky, returned an indictment on May 10, 2023, charging a Morganfield, Kentucky, felon with illegal possession of a firearm and methamphetamine trafficking.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Sheriff Jason Thomas of the Union County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.
According to the indictment, on August 19, 2022, James W. Harris Jr., 56, possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Harris also possessed a Helwan Brigadier, nine-millimeter semiautomatic pistol. Harris was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On August 6, 2004, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, Harris was convicted of possessing with intent to distribute, within 1000 feet of public housing, 500 grams to 2 kilograms of powder cocaine, and he was convicted of being an unlawful user of a controlled substance, and knowingly possessing a firearm.
Harris made his initial appearance last week before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, he faces a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Union County Sheriff’s office with assistance from the FBI Owensboro Resident Agency, the Kentucky State Police, the Daviess County/Owensboro Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force, and the Henderson Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, is prosecuting this case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (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.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Jefferson Parish Man for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that a federal grand jury indicted TIMOTHY BLAYLOCK, age 51, a resident of Marrero, Louisiana, for violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act.
According to court documents, TIMOTHY BLAYLOCK, is charged in Count 1 with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).
If convicted of Count 1, BLAYLOCK faces a minimum of 5 years up to a maximum of 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and St. James Parish Sherriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and J. Benjamin Myers.
El Departamento de Justicia llega a un acuerdo con una empresa de reclutamiento en el sector informático con sede en New Jersey que resuelve unas acusaciones de discriminación relacionada con la inmigraciónRead the Press Release
El Departamento de Justicia anunció hoy que ha llegado a un acuerdo conciliatorio con Secureapp Technologies LLC (Secureapp), una compañía de reclutamiento y contratación laboral en el sector informático, cuya sede se encuentra en New Jersey. El acuerdo resuelve la determinación del Departamento que Secureapp vulneró la ley de Inmigración y Nacionalidad («INA», por sus siglas en inglés) al publicar anuncios de trabajo que pedían solicitudes únicamente de personas no ciudadanas de los EE. UU. que buscaban un patrocinador para una visa laboral temporal o que tenían un estatus migratorio asociado con ciertas visas temporales basadas en el empleo.
«Cuando los empleadores convocan solicitudes únicamente de candidatos con cierto estatus migratorio, disuaden a otros individuos de presentar una solicitud y les niegan una oportunidad justa de ser considerados para el puesto» afirmó Kristen Clarke, la Fiscal General Auxiliar de la División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia. «La División de Derechos Civiles está comprometida a eliminar estas barreras discriminatorias ilegales».
La investigación del Departamento determinó que, comenzando en enero del 2019 y durante más de un año después, Secureapp publicó al menos 12 anuncios de trabajo facialmente discriminatorios que buscaban solamente a personas no ciudadanas de los EE. UU. que necesitaban un patrocinador para poder trabajar o que ya poseían una visa laboral. Al hacerlo, Secureapp disuadió a ciudadanos de los EE. UU. y a otros trabajadores con permiso para trabajar en los Estados Unidos sin patrocinio (entre ellos asilados, refugiados y residentes permanentes legales) de presentar solicitudes a los anuncios de trabajo y de ser considerados de manera justa para las oportunidades de empleo. Por lo general, la disposición antidiscriminatoria de la INA prohíbe que los empleadores recluten o se nieguen a contratar a trabajadores con base en su estatus migratorio o ciudadanía.
Conforme el acuerdo, Secureapp pagará una sanción civil a los Estados Unidos que asciende a $26,000. Asimismo, el acuerdo requiere que Secureapp capacite a sus reclutadores en cuanto a los requisitos de la INA, que revise sus políticas de empleo y que se someta a los requisitos de supervisión y declaración del Departamento.
La Sección de Derechos de Inmigrantes y Empleados de la División de Derechos Civiles es responsable de hacer cumplir la disposición antidiscriminatoria de la INA. Entre otras cosas, la ley prohíbe la discriminación con base en el estatus de ciudadanía y la nacionalidad de origen en los procesos de contratación, despido o reclutamiento o recomendación por comisión; las prácticas documentales injustas; las represalias o la intimidación.
Para aprender más sobre la labor de la IER y cómo conseguir ayuda, vea este vídeo corto. Aprenda más sobre cómo los empleadores pueden evitar la discriminación por motivos de estatus de ciudadanía en el sitio web de la IER. Aquellos aspirantes o empleados que creen haber sido discriminados por motivos de su estatus migratorio, ciudadanía o nacionalidad de origen en los procesos de contratación, despido, reclutamiento o verificación de la elegibilidad para trabajar (Formulario I-9 e E-Verify) o sujetos a represalias pueden presentar una denuncia. El público también puede llamar a la línea directa de la IER para trabajadores al 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY para personas con discapacidades auditivas); llamar a la línea directa de la IER para empleadores al 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY para personas con discapacidades auditivas); enviar un correo electrónico a [email protected]; inscribirse a un seminario en línea gratuito; o visitar los sitios web de la IER en inglés o español. Para recibir las últimas noticias de la IER, inscríbase a GovDelivery.
Dominican National Admits Role in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Dominican National, who has resided in both Rhode Island and New Jersey, today admitted to a federal court judge in Providence that he participated in a drug trafficking conspiracy that trafficked cocaine into Rhode Island via the U.S. Postal Service, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
Patri Hiciano Felix, 25, admitted that, as a member of a criminal drug conspiracy, he worked with others to have parcels of cocaine shipped via U.S. Priority Mail from Puerto Rico to addresses in Rhode Island. Hiciano also admitted that he coordinated with co-conspirators for the retrieval of the parcels of cocaine, including a parcel that contained 1,070 grams of cocaine that was sent to a residence in Johnston and was scheduled for delivery in March 2022.
Appearing in U.S. District Court, Hiciano pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 22, 2023. The defendant’s sentences will be determined by a federal judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise M. Barton, with the assistance of Assistant U.S. Attorney Milind M. Shah.
The matter was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.
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Detroit Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Desmond Devon Magee, also known as “Rich,” 27, of Detroit, was sentenced today to four years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for distribution of a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 18, 2022, Magee sold approximately 29 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant inside an Eighth Street business in Huntington.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:22-cr-210.
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Dallas Man Sentenced to 14 years in Federal Prison for Supplying Fentanyl in Rowlett OverdoseRead the Press Release
PLANO, Texas – A Dallas man has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violations related to a 2021 overdose death, announced Eastern District of Texas U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs today.
Robel Habtemariam, 20, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to manufacture and deliver fentanyl and was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison on May 19, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Sean D. Jordan.
According to information presented in court, on March 16, 2021, law enforcement authorities responded to a parking lot regarding an unconscious person. Upon arrival, they found the victim lying on the ground just outside of a vehicle with two teenagers attempting to move him into the vehicle. The victim was administered Narcan and was transported to a hospital where he died. An investigation revealed that Habtemariam provided the victim with a pill and had left the scene before law enforcement arrived. Habtemariam returned to the scene at the request of officers and granted consent to search his vehicle. Officers located 25 pills that appeared to be Oxycodone but were later determined to be “pressed” pills containing Fentanyl. The investigation determined that Habtemariam provided one of the pills to the victim which caused his overdose. Instead of calling 911, Habtemariam called the victim’s girlfriend and left the scene. Habtemariam ultimately identified his original source of supply as Antonio Havis. Havis was previously convicted and sentenced to 20 years in federal prison by Judge Jordan on December 9, 2022.
“Fentanyl overdose deaths are tragic and heartbreaking,” said U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs. “As long as fentanyl plagues our community and causes tragic, unnecessary deaths, we will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute overdose cases. Friday’s sentencing of Robel Habtemariam sends a clear message that this Office and our state and federal law enforcement partners will continue to prosecute and hold accountable dealers who distribute this poison, exploit addictions, and cause senseless deaths in the Eastern District of Texas.”
“Today’s sentence is just another consequence of deadly illicit fentanyl in our neighborhoods,” said Eduardo A. Chávez, Special Agent in Charge of DEA Dallas. “Mr. Habtemariam will spend the next 14 years in federal prison because of one deadly pill. Because of that same pill, a life was lost and families have been forever changed. DEA Dallas and our law enforcement partners throughout the region will continue to investigate overdose and poisoning deaths and bring those responsible to justice; however, every one of us must do our part to prevent and educate others that truly One Pill Can Kill.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Rowlett Police Department and the Rowlett Fire and Emergency Services and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Johnson.
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Court-Ordered Consent Decree Allows for Sale and Redevelopment of Port Jefferson Superfund SiteRead the Press Release
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced today that the United States District Court has approved a consent decree that ends litigation against Lawrence Aviation Industries, Inc. (LAI) and its former CEO and owner for violations of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA), commonly known as the Superfund statute. The resolution will allow for the redevelopment of the Port Jefferson Station, New York property where LAI operated.
The Superfund statute protects human health and the environment, while safeguarding taxpayer dollars, by holding parties that contributed to contamination responsible for cleaning it up. Since 1980, the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Superfund program has managed the cleanup of the nation’s high-priority hazardous sites and has responded to environmental emergencies, oil spills, and natural disasters.
The LAI Superfund Site includes an area approximately 125 acres in size located off Sheep Pasture Road in Port Jefferson in Suffolk County, New York. Pursuant to the terms of the Consent Decree, which was approved by United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack, the six parcels comprising the Site will be enhanced in value and sold for redevelopment by a company established by the Suffolk County Landbank Corporation. The Consent Decree provides that the possible future uses of the property will include a regionally significant infrastructure project and an industrial park.
“This settlement will enable a previously contaminated property to be put to uses that will benefit Port Jefferson and the greater Suffolk County community,” said United States Attorney Breon Peace. “In the process, the EPA will recover at least some of the enormous costs expended in remediating the LAI Superfund Site and protecting our environment from hazardous substances.”
Mr. Peace expressed his gratitude to the EPA for its partnership in litigating and resolving the Government’s claims.
“This settlement that will not only recover some of the costs of cleaning up the LAI Superfund site but also pave the way for its redevelopment and revitalization," said Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. "This is a win-win situation for the environment and the community of Port Jefferson Station, which will benefit from new infrastructure and economic opportunities long into the future.”
LAI conducted titanium sheet metal manufacturing operations at the Site, mostly for the aeronautics industry, from 1959 to approximately 2004. The EPA determined that LAI’s operations resulted in releases of a number of hazardous substances and contaminants into the environment, including trichloroethene (TCE), acid wastes, oils, sludge, metals, and other plant wastes. As a result, the Site was placed on the Superfund National Priorities List and the EPA has since conducted a number of response actions at the Site. These actions have included construction of treatment systems designed to capture, treat, and prevent further migration of TCE, a known carcinogen, in groundwater beneath the Site. It is the EPA’s intention to treat the groundwater to the point that the water can again be used as part of the drinking water supply. In addition, the EPA has remediated soil at the Site by removing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), another known carcinogen, removed asbestos from buildings at the Site, and installed soil vapor mitigation systems in several nearby locations which are inspected annually.
In order to recover EPA’s response costs, the United States filed suit against LAI and its owner and CEO, Gerald Cohen, asserting five claims for relief pursuant to CERCLA. See United States v. Lawrence Aviation Industries, Inc, No. CV-06-04818 (JMA). After trial on the merits, the Court ruled in favor of the Government by Order dated March 19, 2019, finding LAI and Cohen liable to the EPA for $48,116,024.31 in costs and $750,000 each in penalties. The Court also found that the EPA had valid liens on the LAI property.
Following the trial, the only remaining question was the relative priority of claims of interest filed against the property by other federal agencies, New York State, Suffolk County, and several private parties as well as the EPA. The Consent Decree resolves this remaining issue by allocating recoveries from the sale of the property among the EPA and other claimants.
The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Richard K. Hayes, with the assistance of EPA Region 2 attorneys James Doyle, Leilani Davis and Andrea Leshak.
Ceres Man Pleads Guilty to Cyberstalking Two VictimsRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Kevin James Strutz, 51, of Ceres, pleaded guilty today to two counts of cyberstalking, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Strutz secretly made a video recording of an adult female who stayed, as an Airbnb tenant, at the residence where Strutz was living in Ceres in February 2020. The victim ended her stay at the residence when she discovered a message on a cellphone that Strutz had left in a shared bathroom. Over the next several months, Strutz continued to contact the victim through multiple Facebook accounts. The messages became increasingly aggressive, and one included an image of the victim exiting a shower at the Airbnb residence that had been taken without her knowledge or consent. Strutz sent the image to her with a demand that she send him a sexually explicit video or he would send the photo to her friends and family.
When investigators reviewed evidence, they learned that Strutz previously had sent a series of electronic messages and handwritten letters to a different female victim. More specifically, from approximately September 2018 through late December 2018, Strutz left 15 handwritten letters that the defendant had placed on the victim’s vehicle. Many of the letters contained threats designed to coerce the victim into engaging in sexual acts with Strutz. He also sent messages to the victim from five different Facebook accounts and attempted to contact the victim using phone calls and messages.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Ceres Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa is prosecuting the case.
Strutz is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on Nov. 4, 2023. Strutz faces a maximum statutory penalty for each count of five years in prison and a $250,000 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.
Campbellsville Man Indicted by Federal Grand Jury for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment on May 10, 2023, charging a Campbellsville, Kentucky, man with methamphetamine trafficking and firearms offenses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Mitch Bailey of the Campbellsville Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, on November 13, 2022, Nicholas Zunker, 35, possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Zunker also possessed an SCCY CPX-1, nine-millimeter semiautomatic pistol, and an SCCY CPX-2, nine-millimeter semiautomatic pistol. He was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offense. On September 13, 2010, in San Joaquin Superior Court in California, he was convicted of illegal possession of a firearm and battery on spouse/cohabitant/parent of child.
Zunker made his initial appearance last week before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, he faces a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and the Campbellsville Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Yurchisin, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green branch office, is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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California Woman Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LORRAINE SANCHEZ VALDEZ, age 31, of Covina, California, was sentenced on May 17, 2023, to 57 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Ivan L. R. Lemelle, after pleading guilty to a one-count superseding bill of information that charged her with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, SANCHEZ VALDEZ conspired with others to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine within the Eastern District of Louisiana and elsewhere on or about May 15, 2021 and continuing to on or about June 7, 2021.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisiana State Police, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Busby man admits armed meth trafficking on Northern Cheyenne Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS —A Busby man today admitted to armed methamphetamine trafficking on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation after law enforcement found the drug and three firearms in a car in which he was traveling, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Ivan Eaglefeathers, 20, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth and to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime as charged in a superseding information. Eaglefeathers faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least three years of supervised release on the drug crime and a mandatory minimum five years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and a mandatory minimum of five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Eaglefeathers was detained pending further proceedings.
In court documents, the government alleged that on Sept. 12, 2021 on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, law enforcement officers stopped a car that had run two stop signs, was traveling at a high rate of speed and was believed to have been seen at an earlier shooting. Four people in the car, including Eaglefeathers, and were engaged in distributing meth. Officers detained all four persons. A federal search warrant was served on the car and officers found approximately 48 grams of meth, $2,000 in cash, a scale and drug paraphernalia, ammunition and three firearms. The guns were a .17-caliber rifle, an AR-style 5.56mm rifle and a 9mm handgun. A video of Eaglefeathers and a co-defendant shows Eaglefeathers outside of the vehicle on the same day with a gun in his hand. Eaglefeathers admitted to having one of the rifles in the car and to having shot it in the air.
Co-defendant Jamesey Maria Jefferson of Busby pleaded guilty to charges in the case and is pending sentencing.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation.
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Baton Rouge Woman Pleads Guilty to Filing Numerous PPP and EIDL Loan Applications Totaling More than $1 Million and Laundering the Fraudulent ProceedsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. announced that Tiera R. Lands, age 30, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson to wire fraud and money laundering in connection with numerous false and fraudulent applications that she filed to obtain funds from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program in 2020 and 2021.
According to admissions made as part of her guilty plea, Lands owned and operated several businesses in Baton Rouge, including Virtuous Credit Solutions (“VCS”), and Virtuous Call Center, and through her businesses, she offered a variety of services, including credit counseling, tax preparation, and assistance obtaining business financing and loans. Beginning in or about March 2020, and continuing through April 2021, she devised a scheme to defraud the United States, through the United States Small Business Administration, and two participating PPP lenders, by filing numerous false and fraudulent applications for EIDL and PPP funds, both in the names of her own businesses and the names of other individuals and businesses located in the Baton Rouge area.
With respect to the EIDL program, after submitting one application the name of VCS and receiving $7,000, Lands submitted two additional applications for the same company, knowing that these applications contained false representations intended to induce the SBA to release approximately $300,000 in additional funds to which she was not entitled. Then, between June 30, 2020 and July 9, 2020, she submitted false EIDL applications in the names of three other businesses. All three of these applications contained false representations, which caused the SBA to disburse approximately $450,000 in funds to which neither Lands nor the named applicants were entitled.
Similarly, with respect to the PPP program, after submitting one application in the name of VCS and receiving approximately $20,000, Lands submitted two additional applications in which she made numerous false representations about her business. Lands also submitted at least seven more false PPP applications in the names of other individuals and businesses in which she inflated the businesses’ gross sales and payroll amounts, among other false statements. In connection with these applications, Lands submitted numerous fraudulent tax documents and payroll records, and she caused an authorized PPP lander to disburse nearly $250,000 in funds to which neither she nor the named applicants were entitled. In total, the false and fraudulent applications Lands admitted filing caused a total actual and intended loss of more than $1.1 million.
Lands also admitted that she would receive proceeds from her fraudulent activity in cash, and as she did so, she would deposit the cash into her business bank account and structure the deposits so as to conceal the source of the funds and avoid triggering transaction reporting requirements. For instance, on July 3, 2020, after receiving proceeds from fraudulent conduct, Lands deposited $5,900 in cash into VCS’ bank account, and, two minutes later, deposited another $5,100 in cash into the same account. Ten days later, between approximately 11:45 p.m. on July 14, 2020 and 1:17 a.m. on July 15, 2020—a span of approximately 92 minutes— Lands made five separate cash deposits into VCS’ bank account, totaling $11,000.
This matter is being investigated by the United States Secret Service, the Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigation, and the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office. The matter is prosecuted by AUSA Alan Stevens, who also serves as Senior Litigation Counsel for the United States Attorney’s Office, AUSA Brad Casey, and AUSA April Leon Johnson.
Activity in the U.S. Attorney's OfficeRead the Press Release
Firearm Offenses
Danny Lee Jimenez, age 38, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced on May 18, 2023, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson sentenced Jimenez to 15 months in prison with three years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment. The crime was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Paul King, age 64 of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced on May 22, 2023, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson sentenced King to 21 months’ imprisonment with three years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment. The crime was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kerry J. Jacobson.
Civil Rights
Argel Sierra, age 39, of San Antonio, Texas, was sentenced on May 16 for felony deprivation of civil rights. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl sentenced Sierra to five years’ probation, a $750 fine, and a $100 special assessment. Judge Skavdahl also ordered Sierra to pay $1,646.10 in restitution. According to court records, while serving as a police officer with the Mills (Wyo.) Police Department in 2019, Sierra unlawfully arrested a man without probable cause, and used excessive force to make the unlawful arrest. This crime was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Heimann prosecuted the case.