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Wednesday 12 April 2023
Former Labor Union President Admits Involvement in $200,000 Embezzlement SchemeRead the Press Release
BENTON, Ill. – The former president of the Alton chapter of the AFSCME labor union admitted involvement in the transportation of stolen money after he was caught embezzling more than $200,000 from the organization.
Byron Clemons, Sr., 35, of Alton, pled guilty Tuesday in a U.S. District courtroom to one count of Interstate Transportation of Stolen Money.
“Labor unions exist to promote the interests of the working men and women who make up their ranks. But instead of promoting the interests of his members, Clemons used his position to enrich himself and get cash to gamble at casinos,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Cutchin. “I commend the efforts of our partners at the U.S. Department of Labor for their diligent work in investigating this case and ensuring that Clemons is brought to justice.”
“Byron Clemons, Sr. personally enriched himself at the expense of dues-paying AFSCME members. Tuesday’s conviction affirms the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General’s commitment to ensuring that labor organization funds are only used for lawful purposes. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to investigate union officials that violate the trust placed in them by the membership they are supposed to serve,” said Irene Lindow, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
Clemons was the president of AFSCME’s Local 124 in Alton from June 2017 through January 2022. According to court documents, Clemons withdrew a total of $202,100 from the Local 124’s U.S. Bank account from February 2021 to January 2022. The defendant used the funds to gamble at casinos and pay personal expenses.
The defendant’s sentencing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on July 20, 2023, at the U.S. District Courthouse in Benton.
Agents with the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General and the Office of Labor – Management Standards contributed to the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Verseman is prosecuting the case.
Former Federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Officer Sentenced to 6 Months in Federal Prison for Theft of Public MoneyRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Louis Paiva, Jr., 29, of Dearborn, Michigan (formerly of Orlando, Florida), was sentenced to 6 months in federal prison after having pleaded guilty to one count of theft of public money. Jason R. Coody, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the sentence.
“The theft of any amount of taxpayer funds is inexcusable, especially when the public trust is violated by a government employee,” said U.S. Attorney Coody. “Today’s sentence both punishes the defendant’s criminal conduct and should serve as a significant deterrent to others who would steal from their fellow citizens to unlawfully enrich themselves. With our law enforcement partners, we remain committed to investigating and prosecuting those who engage in acts of covid-related fraud.”
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Office of Inspector General (OIG) COVID Fraud Unit conducted an investigation focused on identifying DHS employees who had received Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits while also being paid by DHS. The investigation revealed that between March 15, 2020, and March 8, 2021, a total of $16,435.00 in UI assistance (including COVID-19 pandemic relief benefits) was deposited into a bank account that was used by Paiva. During this timeframe, Paiva worked as a Transportation Security Officer for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at the Orlando International Airport in Orlando, Florida. Records obtained from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (FL-DEO), which administered the UI program in Florida, revealed that Paiva submitted approximately 24 applications and recertifications to FL-DEO in which he falsely stated that he was not a federal civilian employee, or that he did not work or earn money during the applicable timeframes.
“Federal employees are entrusted to protect the integrity of our programs,” said DHS Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari. “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that those who betray that trust will be held accountable for their actions.”
Paiva’s prison sentence will be followed by 2 years’ supervised release. The Court also ordered Paiva to pay $16,435.00 in restitution to the FL-DEO.
This conviction was the result of a joint investigation conducted by Department of Homeland Security-Office of Inspector General and the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen prosecuted the case.
In March 2020, the President signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, which expanded states’ ability to provide UI for many workers impacted by COVID-19, including for workers who were not ordinarily eligible for benefits.
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 United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Former Erie County Deputy Sheriff Pleads Guilty to Using Excessive ForceRead the Press Release
TOLEDO – Today, Adam Bess, 35, pleaded guilty to a felony for depriving an inmate at the Erie County Jail of her constitutional rights by using excessive force. According to court documents, on November 1, 2021, Bess was working as a sergeant at the Erie County Jail. During the booking process of a new arrestee, Bess repeatedly choked her causing her vision to pixelate and have lasting bruising. The inmate can be heard yelling, “He’s about to kill me, he’s about to kill me” during the assault.
Bess faces up to ten years imprisonment and it will be determined by the Court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendants’ prior criminal record, if any, and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
A sentencing date has not yet been set before United States District Judge Jack Zouhary.
This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Freeman and Tracey Tangeman.
Former Emergency Department Nurse Sentenced to 3 Years After Stealing Pain Medication and Injecting Patients with SalineRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Jennifer L. Adams, 38, of Whitestown, has been sentenced to 3 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to tampering with consumer products.
According to court documents, from October 1, 2018, to February 18, 2020, Jennifer Adams repeatedly tampered with vials of injectable pain medications, including fentanyl, morphine, hydromorphone, and ketamine, while employed as a registered nurse in the emergency department at Franciscan Health in Crawfordsville, Indiana.
Using an automated medication dispensing machine, Adams gained access to the medications without authorization and used them herself. To conceal her scheme, she refilled the vials of medicine with saline solution and super glued the lids back on. Adams used the saline solution on thirty to forty unknowing patients who had been admitted to the emergency department and were in need of pain relief. The investigation found that Adams tampered with between two and seven vials of medicine during each shift that she worked.
“Emergency room patients depend on healthcare providers to give them the medicines they need. This defendant abused her position of trust to steal powerful prescription pain medications and give patients saline instead,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Substance use disorders are serious diseases impacting everyone, including nurses, and medically approved treatment is critical to saving lives and careers. That’s why my office worked with the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division to secure a settlement agreement to ensure that Hoosier nurses can have access to medication assisted treatment while participating in the Indiana State Nursing Assistance Program. I encourage all providers struggling with substance abuse to seek help, because stealing medications from patients is a serious crime that carries serious consequences.”
“Health care professionals who take needed medications from patients not only harm patients but also put at risk the trust that U.S. consumers have in those who provide their medical care,” said Special Agent in Charge Ronne Malham, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Chicago Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice health care professionals who tamper with patients’ medications.”
“Most health care workers are heroes and work very hard to save lives, but when one person decides to abuse this power, patients suffer tremendously,” Attorney General Rokita said. “This is unacceptable. We should be able to trust our doctors and nurses and not have to worry about tampered medication. I applaud the work of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for seeking justice for Hoosiers.”
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations and the Indiana Attorney General’s Office, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon. Judge Hanlon also ordered that Adams be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following her release from federal prison and pay a $1,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who prosecuted this case.
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Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Nationwide “Felony Lane Gang” ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Robert Natson, age 37, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, pled guilty today to conspiracy to commit bank fraud. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Michael J. Driscoll, Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and Putnam County Sheriff Kevin J. McConville made the announcement.
In pleading guilty, Natson admitted that he was involved in a fraud scheme known as “Felony Lane Gang” between 2015 and 2020. Natson and his co-conspirators traveled across the country breaking into cars, often targeting those parked by women at locations such as health and fitness centers, daycares, parks, and dog parks. Natson and other members of the conspiracy stole debit cards, credit cards, checkbooks, and photo identifications in these “smash-and-grab” vehicle thefts, and they used these stolen items to commit bank fraud by recruiting women to impersonate the smash-and-grab victims and cash checks in drive-through bank lanes. The recruited check cashers were almost always suffering from an addiction to controlled substances and were provided payment at least partially in drugs. Natson admitted that the loss amount from the conspiracy attributable to him is up to $40,000.
The charge to which Natson pled guilty carries a maximum sentence of 30 years, a fine of up to $1 million, and a supervised release term of up to 5 years. Natson will be sentenced on August 10, 2023. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Natson was one of nine men charged in a 13-count indictment for their roles in the scheme. Keyshawn Arnold, age 25, of Schenectady, New York; Gary Grier, age 37, of Fort Lauderdale; Joshua Mallory, age 37, of Fort Lauderdale; Terrell McDonald, age 32, of Troy, New York; and Tyrone Parker, age 40, of Fort Lauderdale, previously pled guilty for their roles in the indictment. The remaining co-defendants are:
- TYRONE PARKER, JR. a/k/a “Ty,” a/k/a “Cheese,” a/k/a “Little Thigh,” age 22, of Fort Lauderdale;
- CEDRIC LYNCH, a/k/a “City,” a/k/a “C,” age 37, of Orlando, Florida; and
- RANDALL TAYLOR, a/k/a “Gucci,” a/k/a “Guwop,” age 37, of Fort Lauderdale.
Each of the remaining defendants is charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft, and they are scheduled for trial in federal court in Albany on July 10, 2023. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants whose cases remain pending are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Westchester Resident Agency of the New York Field Office and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, with assistance from the FBI Field Offices in Albany, Miami, and Salt Lake City, and Resident Agencies in Savannah, Georgia, and Portland, Maine, and from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine, the Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office, and the Ulster County District Attorney’s Office. Additional assistance was provided by numerous law enforcement agencies, including, within New York, the New York State Police; Columbia County Sheriff's Office; Genesee County Sheriff’s Office; Monroe County Sheriff’s Office; Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office; Warren County Sheriff’s Office; and the police departments of the Town of Bethlehem; Glens Falls; Gloversville; Greenburgh; Greece; and Watervliet; and elsewhere, Connecticut State Police; Florida Department of Law Enforcement; Georgia State Patrol; Illinois State Police; Massachusetts State Police; Broward County, FL Sheriff’s Office; Northern York County, PA Regional Police; Southern Chester County, PA Regional Police; Utah County, UT Sheriff's Office; and the police departments of Auburn, MA; Bath, ME; Biddeford, ME; Bozeman, MT; Brunswick, ME; Caernarvon Township, PA; Chester Township, PA; Cinnaminson, NJ; Darien, CT; East Norriton Township, PA; Easthampton, MA; Greenwich, CT; Lower Moreland Township, PA; Manheim Township, PA; Portland, ME; Portsmouth, NH; Saco, ME; Salisbury, MA; Sanford, ME; Scarborough, ME; Somersworth, NH; South Portland, ME; St. George, UT; Syracuse, UT; Tinicum, PA; Towamencin, PA; Tewksbury, MA; Wakefield, MA; Yarmouth, ME; and York, ME.
Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew J. McCrobie, Michael F. Perry, and Paul Tuck are prosecuting the case.
Final Defendant Sentenced in Upper Peninsula-Based Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
MARQUETTE – U.S. Attorney Mark Totten for the Western District of Michigan today announced that Chief U.S. District Judge Hala Y. Jarbou sentenced Elizabeth Jean Decota, also known as “Biz,” to 51 months in prison. She was the tenth and final defendant to plead guilty and be sentenced in United States v. Smith, et al., No. 2:22-cr-01. Chief Judge Jarbou imposed the sentence after commenting that the conspiracy had a “significant impact on the community,” bringing in a “significant quantity of methamphetamine to an area” already so heavily impacted by drug abuse.
“Illegal drugs are a danger to our loved ones and have no place in our communities," said. U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “The United States Attorney’s Office is working closely with our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners to disrupt drug trafficking rings in Indian Country and across the state to help rid our streets of meth, heroin, fentanyl, and other potentially lethal poisons.”
Between March and December 2021, the conspirators brought significant quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl from Detroit and distributed those drugs throughout the western half of the Upper Peninsula. The conspirators based their operations on the Hannahville Indian Community and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, distributing significant quantities of methamphetamine to those communities.
“Drug-related activity in the L’Anse Indian and Hannahville Reservations contribute to violent crime and imposes serious health and economic difficulties to Tribal communities. These sentences help send a message that drug use and trafficking has no place on the Reservations,” said Jerin Falcon, Deputy Associate Director, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, Division of Drug Enforcement.
“The cooperation between local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement has once again proven effective,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge Orville O. Greene. “This indictment should put drug traffickers on notice that we will use whatever resources necessary to remove them, and the poisons they peddle, from our communities.”
The defendants and their respective prison sentences are as follows:
Name
Sentence
Tyler Allen Smith, also known as “Ty Ty,” a/k/a “Ty”
158 months
Jason Earl Arnold
120 months
Jill Elizabeth Roberts
136 months
John Paul Decota, Jr., also known as “Bub”
64 months
Elizabeth Jean Decota, also known as “Biz”
51 months
Clifford Keith Durant, Jr.
90 months
Shanna Marie Decota
52 months
Peggy Sue Swartz
46 months
Allyson Marie Denomie
41 months
Alexander Brandon Sagataw
46 months
After serving their terms of imprisonment, the defendants will be on supervised release for several years.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs; the Drug Enforcement Administration; Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; FBI – Safe Trails Task Force; Michigan State Police; Delta County Sheriff’s Office; Hannahville Tribal Police Department; Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Police; and Troy Police Department investigated the case.
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Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Ivon Javier Cobbs, Sr. (41, Clearwater) to eight years in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl. Cobbs had pleaded guilty on January 5, 2023.
According to court documents, law enforcement received information identifying Cobbs as a distributor of fentanyl in Clearwater and began an investigation as to his drug activities in Pinellas County. On August 26, 2021, Cobbs distributed 25.36 grams of fentanyl and xylazine to a confidential source assisting in the investigation.
This case was investigated by the Clearwater Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maria Guzman.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. 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.
Felon Who Took Cedar Rapids Police Department on Vehicle and Foot Chase Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A convicted felon who possessed a firearm and attempted to elude police in his vehicle, and on foot, was sentenced today to more than four years in federal prison.
Daniel Straw, age 33, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a November 3, 2022 guilty plea to bring a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
At the guilty plea, Straw admitted he possessed a Glock 9mm pistol when he was prohibited because he was previously convicted of a felony, previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, was a drug user, and was subject to a no-contact order. In July of 2022, Straw took the Cedar Rapids Police Department on a chase while driving his vehicle. After going over a curb, Straw abandoned his car and took off on foot. He scaled a fence and ran through residential backyards while being chased by police. He was ultimately apprehended in the backyard of a residential neighborhood and a loaded Glock 9mm pistol was located in his bag, as well as an extended magazine and marijuana.
Straw was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Straw was sentenced to 57 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Straw is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Liz Dupuich and investigated by the Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force. The task force is composed of representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cedar Rapids Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-cr-77-LTS.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Felon Sentenced for Drug Trafficking Crimes and Gloucester County ShootingRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Gloucester man was sentenced yesterday to 35 years in prison for drug, firearms, witness tampering and retaliation and obstruction of justice convictions.
According to court documents, in August 2020, Nathan DeAlbert. Mattocks, 39, a previously convicted felon, was arrested after the Gloucester County Sheriff’s Office received an emergency call from an individual reporting that he was being shot at by a person following in another vehicle while driving on a main road in Gloucester County. Following an investigation, law enforcement identified a vehicle matching the description in which Mattocks was an occupant. Officers arrested Mattocks and discovered “Roxacet 30” pills containing fentanyl and a semi-automatic pistol in the vicinity of the crime scene connected to Mattocks.
After Mattocks was arrested and detained pending trial, he became aware of potential witnesses in his case that had provided information to law enforcement about the shooting and the defendant’s prior drug dealing. Mattocks approached a known violent gang member, while both were incarcerated, and asked this individual to find others who could get rid of these witnesses by killing them or otherwise making sure they would not appear in court. Mattocks offered to pay this gang member or provide the gang member with a large quantity of drugs for this service. Mattocks provided a note to the gang member with the names and information about the potential witnesses, one of which did testify at the July 2022 trial.
Further investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF); Gloucester County Sherriff’s Office; and other local law enforcement partners revealed Mattocks’ long history of dealing heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, among other dangerous controlled substances within the Middle Peninsula region.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Michael T. Weddel, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ Washington Field Division; and Darrell W. Warren, Jr., Gloucester County Sheriff, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Rebecca Beach Smith.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Samuels and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Kaplan prosecuted the case. Former Assistant United States Attorney Howard Zlotnick also provided assistance on this case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:21-cr-6.
Federal jury convicts Washington man of trafficking methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine in Lake CountyRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A federal jury on Tuesday convicted a Washington man of trafficking methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine in Lake County last year, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.
After a two-day trial that began on April 10, the jury found David Loren Waldeck, 57, of Port Orchard, Washington, guilty of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, as charged in an indictment. Waldeck faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for Sept.13. Waldeck was detained pending further proceedings.
“Holding drug traffickers, like Waldeck, accountable for bringing significant amounts of meth, fentanyl pills and cocaine to the Flathead Valley continues to be a top priority for our office. I want to thank Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer S. Clark and Amanda L. Myers, along with Homeland Security Investigations and the Flathead Tribal Police Department for their hard work on this case,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said.
The government alleged in court documents and at trial that on Oct. 24, 2022, Flathead Tribal police officers stopped and arrested an individual on outstanding warrants and learned that a person, named “David,” was in Kalispell and coming back to Polson that day with meth and fentanyl to distribute. The police officers then stopped Waldeck later that day and located 4,212 fentanyl pills, approximately 837 grams, or 1.8 pounds of meth, and approximately 489 grams, or a little more than one pound, of cocaine in his vehicle.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer S. Clark and Amanda L. Myers are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and Flathead Tribal Police Department.
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.
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Federal Officials Meet with the Family of Shanquella RobinsonRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Federal officials with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the Middle and Western Districts of North Carolina and the FBI met with the family of Ms. Shanquella Robinson and family representatives today to offer their condolences and present the findings of the federal investigation into the death of Ms. Robinson.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Ms. Robinson has been a priority for federal prosecutors and the FBI.
The FBI has worked diligently to conduct a detailed and thorough investigation of the evidence available in this case. In coordination with Ms. Robinson’s family, an autopsy was conducted in the United States by the Medical Examiner’s Office in Mecklenburg County.
As in every case under consideration for federal prosecution, the government must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that a federal crime was committed. Based on the results of the autopsy and after a careful deliberation and review of the investigative materials by both U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, federal prosecutors informed Ms. Robinson’s family today that the available evidence does not support a federal prosecution.
The death of Ms. Robinson has been incredibly difficult for her family and the community. As a matter of policy, federal officials generally do not issue public statements concerning the status of an investigation. However, given the circumstances of Ms. Robinson’s death and the public concern surrounding this investigation, it is important to reassure the public that experienced federal agents and seasoned prosecutors extensively reviewed the available evidence and have concluded that federal charges cannot be pursued.
As in any case, the government is prepared to review and examine new information related to the investigation should it become available.
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Federal Officials Meet with the Family of Shanquella RobinsonRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Federal officials with the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the Middle and Western Districts of North Carolina and the FBI met with the family of Ms. Shanquella Robinson and family representatives today to offer their condolences and present the findings of the federal investigation into the death of Ms. Robinson.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Ms. Robinson has been a priority for federal prosecutors and the FBI.
The FBI has worked diligently to conduct a detailed and thorough investigation of the evidence available in this case. In coordination with Ms. Robinson’s family, an autopsy was conducted in the United States by the Medical Examiner’s Office in Mecklenburg County.
As in every case under consideration for federal prosecution, the government must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that a federal crime was committed. Based on the results of the autopsy and after a careful deliberation and review of the investigative materials by both U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, federal prosecutors informed Ms. Robinson’s family today that the available evidence does not support a federal prosecution.
The death of Ms. Robinson has been incredibly difficult for her family and the community. As a matter of policy, federal officials generally do not issue public statements concerning the status of an investigation. However, given the circumstances of Ms. Robinson’s death and the public concern surrounding this investigation, it is important to reassure the public that experienced federal agents and seasoned prosecutors extensively reviewed the available evidence and have concluded that federal charges cannot be pursued.
As in any case, the government is prepared to review and examine new information related to the investigation should it become available.
Farrell, PA Man Pleads Guilty in Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, – Khiry Whiteside pled guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Whiteside, age 32, of Farrell, Pennsylvania, pled guilty before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing to occur on Aug. 21, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.
The law provides for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is to be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the New Castle Police Department, the Sharon Police Department, the Hermitage Police Department, and the Farrell Police Department led the investigation resulting in the conviction in this case.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Executive Pastor Pleads Guilty to Stealing $130,000 from Journey Baptist Church in BarringtonRead the Press Release
CONCORD – An executive pastor pleaded guilty in federal court to using Journey Baptist Church’s debit and credit cards without authorization, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Gregory Neal of Rochester, age 45, pleaded guilty to a one-count information alleging wire fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott scheduled sentencing for July 19, 2023.
The defendant’s employment entailed overseeing the church’s daily operations, including control over its finances. From January 2017 to March 2020, the defendant made unauthorized withdrawals of the church’s funds to pay off his own gambling debts and made unauthorized purchases with the church’s credit cards for his own personal benefit. These unauthorized transactions amounted to roughly $130,000.
The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three 3 years of supervised release, a maximum fine that is the greater of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, and restitution. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
The U.S. Secret Service led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande is prosecuting the case.
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Eleven Kentuckians Sentenced to Federal Prison for Animal Fighting OffensesRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - Two additional individuals, Jerrard McVey, 48, and Linda McVey, 42, both of Carlisle, Ky, were sentenced on Tuesday to 12 months and a day in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for conspiracy to knowingly sponsor and exhibit animals in an animal fighting venture, in connection with the Valley, a chicken pit on the border of Nicholas and Fleming Counties.
According to their plea agreements, the McVeys, conspired with others, including Walter Mitchell, 48, of Ewing, Ky., to organize multiple animal fighting ventures in the form of cockfights at The Valley, located on the border of Nicholas and Fleming Counties. Specifically, on July 30, 2021, the McVeys and others organized and managed an animal fight that included at least a dozen entries in a 5-cock fight, and approximately 100 attendees.
Jerrard McVey pleaded guilty in December 2022. Linda McVey pleaded guilty in November 2022. Mitchell was sentenced in March 2023, and he received six months in prison and one year of supervised release.
In total, eleven individuals have now been sentenced to federal prison for their participation in animal fighting offenses in the Eastern District of Kentucky. Four other individuals were sentenced to home detention or federal probation.
In March 2023, Cruz Alejandro Mercado-Vazquez, 43, of Maysville, Ky, was sentenced to 15 months incarceration, 3 years supervised release, and a $10,000 fine, for attempting to bribe the Mason County Sheriff to influence the Sheriff in connection with a planned animal fighting venture.
Timothy Sizemore, 43, of Manchester, Ky, was sentenced to 26 months incarceration, 2 years supervised release, and a $1,000 fine, for his role in running an animal fighting venture in Manchester, Ky, called Riverside, and an animal fighting venture in Pike County, Ky, called Blackberry. His co-defendant in running Riverside, Millard Oscar Hubbard, 73, of Manchester, Ky, was sentenced to 12 months and one day incarceration, 2 years supervised release, and a $95,000 fine. A referee at Riverside, Justin Smith, 34, of Manchester, Ky, was sentenced to 1 month incarceration, 18 months supervised release, and a fine of $250. The owner of the property on which Blackberry operated, Perry Hatfield, 58, was sentenced to 8 months home detention and 2 years supervised release. Individuals who worked at Riverside, Beachel Collett, 30, of Oneida, KY, and Lester Collett, 26, of Manchester, Ky, were sentenced to 4 months home detention and 18 months supervised release.
In another case involving an animal fighting operation in London, Kentucky, called Bald Rock, Rickie Johnson, 56, of London, Ky, was sentenced to 2 months in prison, followed by 8 months home incarceration, 2 years of supervised release, and a $1,000 fine, for his role in running Bald Rock. Several individuals who fought roosters at Bald Rock were also sentenced. Joshua Westerfield, 36, of London, Ky, was sentenced to 3 months in prison, 6 months home detention, and 2 years supervised release. Dallas Cope, 35, of Livingston, Ky, and Bradley Cye Rose, 43, of Parkers Lake, Ky, were each sentenced to 14 days in prison, 9 months home detention, and 18 months supervised release. Hiram B. Creech, Jr., 47, of East Bernstadt, Ky, was sentenced to a year of probation and a $2,000 fine for causing a minor to attend the animal fighting venture at Bald Rock.
"Animal fighting ventures are cruel and illegal,” said Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “We will continue to enforce federal animal cruelty laws and we commend the valuable assistance of all our law enforcement partners, whose dedicated work made these important convictions possible.”
United States Attorney Shier; Salina Walker, Acting Special Agent in Charge, United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Louisville Office; Colonel Phillip Burnett, Jr., Commissioner, Kentucky State Police; and Superintendent Rob Townsend, Indiana Gaming Commission, jointly announced the sentencings.
The investigation was conducted by USDA, FBI, KSP, and the Indiana Gaming Commission. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kate Smith and Andrea Mattingly-Williams.
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Dunklin County Woman Accused of Aiding $565,000 Interstate TheftRead the Press Release
CAPE GIRARDEAU – A woman from Dunklin County, Missouri appeared in U.S. District Court in Cape Girardeau Wednesday to face charges accusing her of aiding in the theft of $565,000 from a victim located in Texas.
Sheri L. Reeves, 53, of Kennett, was indicted by a grand jury April 4 on one count each of bank fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud. She pleaded not guilty in court Wednesday.
The indictment says Reeves acted as a money courier or “money mule,” someone who transfers money obtained by fraud to others.
On June 9, 2020, Reeves opened an account at a Bank of America branch in Jonesboro, Arkansas that she would later use to receive the proceeds of various fraud schemes executed by others, the indictment says. She also added the name of another person to the account. That person was the victim of an account take-over fraud, in which conspirators used fraudulently-obtained account information to access the account and transfer $565,000 to Reeves’ account, the indictment says.
Reeves sent the proceeds from the various frauds to others using cashier’s checks obtained in Tennessee and Arkansas and via a CoinFlip cryptocurrency ATM in Dunklin County, the indictment says. She also sent the account information to others and withdrew or attempted to withdraw the proceeds in cash or by check, it says.
The bank fraud charge is punishable by up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both. The other charges are punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Hahn is prosecuting the case.
If you believe you are participating in a money mule scheme, please contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaints Center at ic3.gov or contact your local FBI office.
Doctor Charged for Unlawfully Distributing OpioidsRead the Press Release
A doctor made his initial appearance today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to face illegal distribution of opioids charges.
According to court documents, Dr. Ndubuisi Joseph Okafor, 63, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, allegedly distributed oxycodone to individuals outside the usual course of professional practice and without a legitimate medical purpose from his medical practice in Washington. Okafor allegedly performed only cursory evaluations of individuals, and further solicited and received cash inside the examination rooms of his clinic in exchange for opioid prescriptions.
Okafor is charged with 16 counts of illegal distribution of opioids. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves for the District of Columbia, Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg of the FBI Washington Field Office, and Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.
The FBI and HHS-OIG are investigating the case, with assistance from the District of Columbia Office of the Inspector General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and DEA.
Principal Assistant Deputy Chief Kilby Macfadden of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith Mayer-Dempsey for the District of Columbia are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the New England Prescription Opioid (NEPO) Strike Force. Since its inception in late 2018, the NEPO and the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Forces have partnered with federal and state law enforcement agencies and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout New England and Appalachia to prosecute medical professionals and others involved in the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids. Over the past four years, NEPO and ARPO have charged over 115 defendants, collectively responsible for issuing prescriptions for over 115 million controlled substance dosage units. As a result, to date, more than 70 defendants have been convicted. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Information about available treatment programs is available as follows:
Maryland patients receiving care from this practice who wish to obtain information on how to find treatment for mental and substance use disorders, where to access naloxone and other harm reduction services, and information about crisis helplines can utilize these Maryland resources:
- Search for substance use treatment facilities through findtreatment.gov/.
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org, a Maryland suicide and behavioral health crisis hotline.
- Public Overdose Response Programs in Maryland supply naloxone and may be found using this list. You can also visit health.maryland.gov/pha/NALOXONE/Pages/Home.aspx to see a locator map. Naloxone may also be found in your local pharmacy and billed to insurance and Medicaid.
District of Columbia residents needing information about mental health or substance use disorder services can call the Department of Behavioral Health 24/7 Access Helpline 1-888-793-4357 or visit www.dbh.dc.gov.
In addition, those needing access to opioid treatment service can contact the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 24/7 National Helpline for referrals to treatment services at 1-800-662-4359.
Medications obtained illicitly are very dangerous as they are often not what they appear, and frequently contain contaminants and extremely potent substances such as fentanyl that greatly increase the risk of overdose and death.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
District of Columbia Man Sentenced to More Than 8 Years for Shooting at Two Women in Southeast WashingtonRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Michael Drummond, 26, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today in two felony matters by the Honorable Sean Staples to a combined 100 months in prison for shooting at two women in Southeast D.C. in June 2021, and subsequently possessing a “ghost gun” in July 2021, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Robert J. Contee III, of the Metropolitan Police Department. A jury found Drummond guilty on February 10, 2023, of two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm, and related firearms offenses.
According to the government’s evidence, on June 27, 2021, Drummond, a convicted felon who was on both supervised release for a 2020 federal gun and drug conviction and on pretrial release in a pending Superior Court case, shot at two women after having an angry exchange of words with them moments earlier. One bullet slammed into a car door, lodging itself in the rolled-down window inches away from the woman sitting in the front passenger seat. A month later, officers executed a search warrant at Mr. Drummond’s home and found a loaded ghost gun under his mattress.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Contee commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also acknowledged the efforts of those who provided assistance in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Kimberly Nielsen, Deputy Chief of the Major Crimes Section, Paralegal Specialists Crystal Waddy and Debra McPherson, Litigation Technology Supervisor Leif Hickling, and Litigation Technology Specialist William Henderson. Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Noah Simmons and Colin Cloherty, who prosecuted and tried the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen Gibbons, who initially investigated and indicted the case.
Denham Springs Man Sentenced to 292 Months in Federal Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. announced that U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced William Hunter Davis, age 35, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, to 292 months in federal prison following his conviction for production of child pornography. At sentencing, Chief Judge Dick described Davis’s conduct as “heinous” particularly since it “involved a contact offense in a familial relationship.” Following his term of imprisonment, Davis must serve five years of supervised release and register as a sex offender for life. Upon release from prison, he will be prohibited from contacting anyone under 18, and barred from visiting or living near schools, public pools, playgrounds, and other places with the primary purpose of servicing children.
According to admissions made during his plea, between January 1, 2020, and May 31, 2021, Davis recorded pornographic videos of himself engaged in sexually explicit conduct with a six-year-old minor child.
U. S. Attorney Gathe stated, “The efforts of the FBI and Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office cannot be praised enough. Their hard work in helping bring this defendant to justice defines the Project Safe Childhood Initiative. With this sentence, child sex predators are put on notice that this type of offense will not be tolerated in the Middle District of Louisiana.”
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney April M. Leon Johnson.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
D.C. Doctor Arrested for Unlawfully Distributing OpioidsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - A District of Columbia doctor made an initial appearance today in U.S. District Court on charges related to his alleged unlawful distribution of opioids in exchange for cash. Ndubuisi Joseph Okafor, M.D., 63, of Upper Marlboro, Maryland was arrested yesterday at his medical practice on 16 counts of illegal distribution of opioids.
The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Assistant Director David Sundberg of the Washington Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Maureen R. Dixon, of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General, Daniel W. Lucas, Inspector General for the District of Columbia, and Special Agent in Charge Jarod Forget of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division.
According to court documents, Okafor allegedly distributed oxycodone to individuals outside the usual course of professional practice and without a legitimate medical purpose from his medical practice in Washington, D.C. Okafor allegedly performed only cursory evaluations of individuals, and further solicited and received cash inside the examination rooms of his clinic in exchange for opioid prescriptions.
If convicted, Okafor faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith Mayer-Dempsey of the District of Columbia’s United States Attorney’s Office and Principal Assistant Deputy Chief Kilby Macfadden of the Justice Department’s Fraud Section.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and the DC-Office of Inspector General Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU). The Drug Enforcement Administration Washington Division provided valuable assistance and served an Immediate Suspension Order (ISO) on Dr. Okafor’s DEA registration because it was determined that he posed an imminent danger to public health and safety due to the volume of unlawful distribution of opioids.
The Fraud Section leads the New England Prescription Opioid (NEPO) Strike Force. Since its inception in late 2018, the NEPO and the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force and has partnered with federal and state law enforcement agencies and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout New England and Appalachia to prosecute medical professionals and others involved in the illegal prescription and distribution of opioids. Over the past four years, NEPO and ARPO have charged over 115 defendants, collectively responsible for issuing prescriptions for over 115 million controlled substance dosage units. As a result, to date, more than 70 defendants have been convicted. More information can be found at https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Information about available treatment programs is available as follows:
Maryland: Patients receiving care from this practice that wish to obtain information on how to find treatment for mental and substance use disorders, where to access naloxone and other harm reduction services, and information about crisis helplines can utilize these Maryland resources:
• Search for substance use treatment facilities through https://findtreatment.gov/
• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org, a Maryland suicide and behavioral health crisis hotline.
• Naloxone: Public Overdose Response Programs in Maryland supply naloxone and may be found using this list.
You can also visit https://health.maryland.gov/pha/NALOXONE/Pages/Home.aspx to see a locator map. Naloxone may also be found in your local pharmacy and billed to insurance and Medicaid.
District of Columbia residents needing information about mental health or substance use disorder services, please call the Department of Behavioral Health 24/7 Access Helpline 1-888-793-4357 or visit www.dbh.dc.gov.
In addition, those needing access to opioid treatment service can contact, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 24/7 National Helpline for referrals to treatment services at 1-800-662-4359.
Medications obtained illicitly are very dangerous as they are often not what they appear, and frequently contain contaminants and extremely potent substances such as fentanyl that greatly increase the risk of overdose and death.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Crownpoint man pleads guilty to firearm offensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, announced today that Derrick Cook pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Cook, 28, of Crownpoint, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, will remain in custody which has not been scheduled.
According to the plea agreement, on Aug. 27, 2022, Cook got in an argument with some individuals outside the Crownpoint Trading convenience store. Later that evening, two individuals confronted Cook at his home. A fight began and Cook intentionally shot two of the individuals, identified as John Doe 1 and John Doe 2. Doe 1 suffered serious injury to his abdomen, requiring a long hospital stay and surgical repair, while Doe 2 was shot in the arm. The incident occurred on the Navajo Nation.
Under the terms of the agreement, Cook can be sentenced to up to 12 years in prison followed by up to 5 years of supervised release.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
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Corporations That Operate Senior Living Communities Ordered to Pay $215,000 in Fair Housing Act CaseRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Asbury Communities, Inc. and Albright Care Services, which operate eight continuing care retirement communities in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Tennessee, have agreed to pay $215,000 to resolve a Fair Housing Act lawsuit brought by the Department of Justice.
According to U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the complaint alleges that the defendants discriminated against a resident of Asbury RiverWoods in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania and her son by not approving the resident’s request that her adult son be allowed to stay in her independent living apartment as her live-in aide during the COVID pandemic to assist her with activities of daily living.
Because of her disability, the resident, now deceased, required a live-in aide to assist her with non-medical activities such as obtaining groceries, cooking, cleaning, and taking her physician-prescribed medications. During the weekend of March 15, 2020, management for defendants told the resident and her son that the son would not be able to continue to stay with his mother because the senior living community, including the independent living apartments, were going into lockdown. Despite threats to evict his mother from the apartment and calls for him to vacate the property, the son of the resident stayed in the apartment and cared for his mother during the pandemic until they both moved out of the apartment in July 2022.
“No housing provider, especially those housing our senior citizens, can discriminate against residents because of their disabilities,” said U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam. “Those who operate senior living communities must recognize that their residents have the right to reasonable accommodations, which allow them to continue to live independently. This Office maintains its commitment to ensure those with disabilities are not discriminated against by housing providers, public accommodations, or local governments.”
The consent order resolving the lawsuit was approved by the United States District Court for Middle District of Pennsylvania today. This case arose as a result of a complaint filed with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) by the resident and her son. After HUD investigated the complaint, it issued a charge of discrimination and referred it to the Department of Justice.
"Denying a tenant residing in a retirement community a reasonable accommodation during the Covid-19 pandemic is particularly egregious," said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Demetria L. McCain of HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. "HUD's investigation, charge of discrimination and subsequent referral to the United States Attorney's Office demonstrates HUD's commitment to work with trusted partners to vigorously enforce fair housing laws."
Under the consent order, the defendants will pay $215,000 to the estate of the resident and her son. The consent order also requires defendants to take actions to prevent future unlawful discrimination at all eight of its properties, including complying with the Fair Housing Act, undergoing training on the Fair Housing Act, implementing a new reasonable accommodation policy, and complying with reporting requirements.
This investigation was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Butler, the civil rights coordinator, with assistance from Elizabeth Singer, Director of the United States Attorney’s Fair Housing Program in the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section.
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, and familial status. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt. Individuals may report housing discrimination by calling the Justice Department at 1-833-591-0291, emailing [email protected], or submitting a report online. Individuals also may report discrimination by contacting HUD at 1-800-669-9777, or by filing a complaint online. Anyone in the Middle District of Pennsylvania may also report civil rights violations to the Civil Rights Coordinator of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania by calling 717-614-4911 or emailing [email protected].
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Colorado Springs Residents Indicted in Alleged Scheme to Defraud Hundreds of Student Loan DebtorsRead the Press Release
Denver -- The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Jalon Torres, age 45, and Lisa Marie Ritter, age 32, both of Colorado Springs, have been indicted by a Federal Grand Jury as part of an alleged scheme to defraud student loan debtors.
According to the allegations in the indictment, Torres was the registered agent for the Student Resolution Center, LLC, which was also known as the Student Resource Center (SRC). Beginning in and around June 2015, Torres devised a scheme to defraud student loan debtors by making false promises to induce them to make payments to his company. As part of the scheme, Torres and others he directed called victims and falsely promised to reduce or eliminate student loan debt for a certain number of payments to the SRC. Torres obtained authorization from victims to withdraw payments from their bank accounts, but then withdrew payments in excess of the amounts listed in each contract. SRC earned more than $1 million from hundreds of victims. The indictment further alleges that both defendants then used the proceeds for personal gain, including purchasing a residence and a luxury vehicle.
Defendant Ritter made her initial appearance in Denver before United States Magistrate Judge James P. O’Hara on April 11, 2023. Defendant Torres was arrested in Florida and is awaiting further proceedings in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida.
The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, IRS-CI, and the Department of Education Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca Weber is handling the prosecution.
The charges in the indictment are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Case Number 23-cr-00113-RMR
Clairton Man Indicted on Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Clairton, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Illegal Sexual Activity, Production of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and Distribution and Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
The six-count Indictment, returned on April 11, named Jeffrey A. McLaughlin, Jr., 41, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the Court, McLaughlin, on Sept. 9, 2020, distributed a video in a computer graphics and digital file, depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor to another individual located in the Philippines. The Indictment also alleges that McLaughlin coerced and attempted to coerce at least two minors to engage in sexual activity for which a person can be charged with a criminal offense during the periods of Aug. 5, 2021 to 17, 2021, Oct. 30, 2021 to Nov. 22, 2021, and May 6, 2022, to June 1, 2022. The Indictment further alleges that McLaughlin produced and attempted to produce from Oct. 30, 2021 to Nov. 22, 2021, videos and still images depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. Lastly, McLaughlin is charged with possessing, on July 28, 2022, videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, some of whom had not attained the age of 12 years.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of more than 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.The Federal Bureau of Investigation in Pittsburgh and Buffalo, New York, conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in 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 the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Cedar Rapids Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Federal Prison for Being a Prohibited Person in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A prohibited person who possessed a firearm was sentenced today to 64 months in federal prison.
Tylon Randolph, age 22, of Cedar Rapids, received the sentence after a November 7, 2022 guilty plea to one count of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. At the plea hearing, Randolph admitted that, on June 1, 2022, he possessed a Hi-Point 9 mm pistol after having been convicted of a felony and while he was an unlawful user of marijuana and alprazolam.
Randolph was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by Chief United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Randolph was sentenced to 64 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR 22-71.
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Carthage Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography on Workplace ComputerRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Carthage, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court yesterday to downloading thousands of photos and videos of child pornography to his workplace computer.
Shane Tyler Barton, 56, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge David P. Rush on Tuesday, April 11, to one count of receiving and distributing child pornography.
By pleading guilty, Barton admitted that he downloaded approximately 10,000 images and approximately 100 videos of suspected child pornography to his workplace desktop computer. He also admitted that he downloaded videos of child pornography to his employer-issued Apple iPhone. When Barton was arrested, he was in possession of a personal Apple iPhone and admitted that he had also viewed child pornography on that cell phone.
This case began when the director of information technology for Barton’s former employer was alerted to a suspected virus on Barton’s company-issued computer that was in Barton’s office and connected to the business network. On Jan. 5, 2022, he observed an unauthorized anti-virus program on the computer and discovered numerous files that contained adult and child pornography. He notified management of the violation of company policy.
Barton was placed on leave pending the resolution of an internal company investigation. He was instructed to turn over his company-issued iPhone. Barton resigned from his position with the company a couple of weeks later.
Under federal statutes, Barton is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Eatmon. It was investigated by the FBI and the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
California Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute Pharmaceutical Drugs & for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Jamal D. Holdman, 27, of California, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for conspiring to distribute pharmaceutical controlled substances and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Holdman to imprisonment for 65 months. Upon release from prison Holdman will be required to complete a 5-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
In the fall of 2019 investigators accessed an online dark net marketplace called “Empire Market” where they observed vendor “norco_king” advertising the sale of pharmaceutical controlled substances such as Oxycodone and Hydrocodone. Over the course of the investigation, investigators made a series of controlled buys of pharmaceutical controlled substances from norco_king on the dark net using an undercover identity. Norco_king accepted payment via Bitcoin and later Monero, both cryptocurrencies. The parcels containing the drugs were mailed from California to an undercover address in Omaha, Nebraska. Investigators reviewed surveillance video from the originating post offices in the vicinity of Desert Hot Springs, California, and identified Jamal Holdman as a suspect.
On June 21, 2021, investigators served a warrant to search Holdman’s residence in Desert Hot Springs. Upon searching the residence, investigators seized approximately 21,000 pills including a significant number of pharmaceutical controlled substances in Holdman’s bedroom including opioids Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Morphine Sulfate, Hydromorphone, Tapentadol, Methadone, and Tramadol, several amphetamines including Lisdexamfetamine (commercially known as Vyvanse), and several benzodiazepines such as Lorazepam and Alprazolam. In addition, investigators seized 420 pressed “M30” pills, as well as postal service priority mailboxes and pre-paid labels for orders to include one that was addressed to be shipped to Nebraska. Although the color and markings on the “M30” tablets indicated they contained Oxycodone, they were later confirmed through laboratory testing to contain Fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. Investigators also seized two firearms from Holdman’s bedroom near where the drugs were kept.
Holdman told investigators that he packaged and shipped the controlled substances and named Nicolas Decosta as the supplier of the drugs and dark net site vendor. Investigators corroborated this information and arrested Decosta, who will be sentenced on June 1, 2023.
This case was investigated by the United State Postal Inspection Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
California Attorney Indicted for Attempting to Entice a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Gregory J. Haanstad of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that on April 11, 2023, a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment charging Michael A. Connor (age: 53) of Newport Coast, California, with attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, attempted production of child pornography, and possession of child pornography, contrary to Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2422(b), 2251(a), 2252A(a)(5)(B), and 2252A(b)(2).
If convicted of the attempted enticement charge, Connor faces a mandatory minimum ten years’ and up to life imprisonment. He faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years’ up to 30 years’ imprisonment on the production charge and up to 20 years on the possession charge. He also faces up to a $250,000 fine on each count.
This case was investigated by the Green Lake Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan Koenig and Megan J. Paulson.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006, by the U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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For Additional Information Contact:
Public Information Officer
414-297-1700
Brooksville Man Found Guilty of Possessing Firearm as an Armed Career CriminalRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Senior U.S. District Judge John Antoon II has found Wayne Allen Phillips, Jr. (45, Brooksville) guilty of one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a previously convicted felon. Phillips qualifies for an increased penalty under the Armed Career Criminal Act. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 20, 2023. Phillips had been indicted on March 29, 2022.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial and throughout the prosecution, deputies from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office encountered Phillips while attempting to serve a warrant for his arrest on another matter. Phillips ran from the deputies but was apprehended after a brief foot chase. Phillips was searched incident to his arrest, and deputies located a revolver loaded with five rounds of ammunition in his pants pocket. As a previously convicted felon, Phillips is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William S. Hamilton.
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.
All defendants plead guilty in drug trafficking, COVID fraud operation tied to Savannah strip clubsRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: The last of five defendants in a two-state drug trafficking organization awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to felony charges in federal Court.
Jaqueline Somesso, 55, of Savannah, faces a statutory sentence of up to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to an Information charging her with Misprision of a Felony and one count of Bank Fraud, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. The guilty plea acknowledges Somesso is responsible for using fake bank statements to illegally receive COVID-19 relief funding of nearly $600,000. After completion of any prison term, Somesso will be required to serve up to three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
“The exceptional work of our law enforcement partners identified and dismantled this operation that poured illegal drugs into our communities while also ripping off the American taxpayer,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “The five guilty pleas in this case stand testament to the strength of the prosecution painstakingly built through collaboration with our office.”
The guilty pleas in USA v. Kinchen, et al., are the result of “Operation All Eyes On Me,” an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces investigation that identified traffickers distributing cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and marijuana in middle and south Georgia and in Florida. The 15-count indictment, unsealed in August 2022, named five defendants identified through a series of controlled purchases, phone surveillance and searches of multiple properties conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and agents from the Savannah-Chatham Counter Narcotics Team.
In addition to Somesso, the defendants include:
- Dennis Rodriguez Kinchen, 44, of Dublin, Ga., awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty in December 2022 to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute, and to Distribute, 500 Grams or More of Cocaine, and an Amount of Methamphetamine, Heroin, and Marijuana; and Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. Kinchen, identified as a source of the drugs distributed through the conspiracy, faces a statutory sentence of up to 40 years in prison. As part of his guilty plea, he agreed to forfeit an Atlanta condominium purchased with proceeds received through the conspiracy, which also included wire fraud in misuse of more than $300,000 in Small Business Administration COVID Economic Injury Disaster Fund loans comingled with illicit proceeds of drug trafficking. Kinchen was identified as the boyfriend of Somesso, who admitted she knew that he kept illegal firearms and drugs at her residence.
- Sherman Levon Scott, 54, of Pooler Ga., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty in March 2023 to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute, and to Distribute, Cocaine, Crack Cocaine, and Marijuana. The investigation identified Scott as a distributor in the drug trafficking conspiracy, and a Jan. 29, 2022 law enforcement search of his residence yielded a kilo of cocaine, 3 pounds of marijuana, crack cocaine, and cash. Scott’s plea subjects him to a statutory penalty of up to 20 years in prison.
- Angel Amaral, 56, of Hollywood, Fla., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty in January 2023 to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute, and to Distribute, Cocaine. Identified during the investigation as a source of cocaine for the drug trafficking conspiracy in Florida, Amaral faces a statutory penalty of up to 20 years in prison.
- Tony Heldore, 52, of Richmond Hill, Ga., awaits sentencing after pleading guilty in March 2023 to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute, and to Distribute, Cocaine and Marijuana. Identified as a marijuana supplier to the conspiracy, Heldore faces a statutory penalty of up to 20 years in prison. Heldore was an employee of Somesso, working at Karma Entertainment and Lux Gentlemen’s Club in Hardeeville, S.C.
The government is seeking forfeiture of nearly $900,000 in funds from the conspiracy. Sentencings for Scott and Heldore are scheduled for Aug. 10, 2023, in U.S. District Court in Savannah before U.S. District Court Judge R. Stan Baker. Sentencings for the other defendants will be scheduled after completion of pre-sentence investigations by U.S. Probation Services.
“Operation ‘All Eyes On Me’ was a tremendous success as it brought down a once-thriving drug trafficking organization,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. “This criminal organization has reached its final chapter, and its members face well-deserved time in prison.”
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.
Operation All Eyes On Me was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s Savannah District Office and the Savannah-Chatham Counter Narcotics Team, with assistance from the DEA Miami Field Division, the Internal Revenue Service and U.S. Secret Service, and prosecuted for the United States of America by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorney and OCDETF Coordinator Marcela C. Mateo.
Activity in the United States Attorney's OfficeRead the Press Release
Wildlife Taking
Jeremy Daniel Ward, age 49, of Moore, Idaho, was sentenced on March 30, 2023 to four months home confinement and one year probation for transportation of wildlife, valued at more than $350, and stealing elk sheds and game skulls from the National Park Service, valued at more than $1,000. He was also ordered to pay a $25 special assessment. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence. The crimes happened between April and June 2022. The case was investigated by the National Park Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Elmore.Drug Offenses
Abel Michael Salazar, age 30, of Greeley, Colorado, was sentenced to 71 months’ imprisonment with three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $500 in restitution and a $100 special assessment, for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. He was sentenced on March 30, 2023, by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl. The crime was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Cheyenne Police Department, Greeley Police Department, and Weld County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Coppom prosecuted the case.Cristina Hermosillo, age 44, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to 72 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $500 in restitution and a $100 special assessment, for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on March 31, 2023. According to the evidence, the defendant was arrested on May 31, 2022, after she was found nonresponsive in her vehicle surrounded by drug paraphernalia and in possession of approximately 32.5 grams of fentanyl. The Cheyenne Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney T.J. Forwood prosecuted the case.
Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl sentenced Dillard Laquin Whithead, age 50, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, to 120 months’ imprisonment with three years of supervised release, $300 in community restitution and a $200 special assessment. The hearing took place on April 7, 2023. According to court documents, in September and October 2020, law enforcement learned that Whithead was distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Cheyenne area. Using this information, law enforcement executed a search warrant on October 20, 2022, for Whithead’s residence in Cheyenne, where they recovered approximately 268 grams of methamphetamine and 51 grams of fentanyl. The Cheyenne Police Department, Laramie County Sheriff’s Department, and Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the crime and Assistant U.S. Attorney T.J. Forwood prosecuted the case.
Ronnell Lee Robertson, age 35, of Casper, Wyoming, was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment with four years of supervised release and ordered to pay $500 in restitution and a $100 special assessment, for conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of fentanyl. He was sentenced on April 7, 2023, by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl. According to court documents, Robertson pled guilty to an information alleging distribution of fentanyl for his involvement in distributing fentanyl through the U.S. Postal Service. The crime was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Elmore prosecuted the case.
About the United States Attorney’s Office
The United States Attorney’s Office is responsible for representing the federal government in virtually all litigation involving the United States in the District of Wyoming, including all criminal prosecutions for violations of federal law, civil lawsuits brought by or against the government, and actions to collect judgments and restitution on behalf of victims and taxpayers. The Office is involved in several programs designed to make our communities safer. They include:
Environmental Justice
The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.
Project Safe Childhood
Project Safe Childhood (PSC) is a DOJ initiative that combats the proliferation of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation crimes against children. The threat of sexual predators soliciting children for sexual contact is well-known and serious.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a nationwide commitment to reducing gun and gang crime in America by networking existing local programs that target gun crime and providing these programs with additional tools necessary to be successful.
Victim Witness Assistance
The Victim Witness Coordinator for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming is dedicated to making sure that victims of federal crimes and their family members are treated with compassion, fairness, and respect.To report a federal crime, go to: https://www.justice.gov/actioncenter/report-crime#trafficking
63 Individuals Charged with Drug Trafficking in the municipality of San Germán, Puerto RicoRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – On April 3, 2023, a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned a six-count indictment charging 63 individuals with drug trafficking in the municipality of San Germán, Puerto Rico. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), and the Puerto Rico Police Bureau (PRPB) Mayagüez Strike Force are in charge of the investigation and completed the filing of charges and arresting processes with the collaboration of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the United States Marshals Service (USMS), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the United States Customs and Border Protection, Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC). This investigation and the arrest operation are part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program.
“This case is a prime example of successful drug interdiction operations that result from collaborative work between federal and state agencies,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “We can remove wrongdoers from the streets and bring stability and peace to our communities when we jointly apply our resources, personnel, and operational expertise to bear against extensive organized crime networks.”
The indictment alleges that from 2015 through April 3, 2023, the defendants were members of a drug trafficking organization that distributed heroin, cocaine base (commonly known as “crack”), cocaine, marihuana, Fentanyl, Oxycodone (Percocet), and Alprazolam (Xanax) in the Manuel F. Rossy and El Recreo Public Housing Projects in San Germán, Puerto Rico (PHPs), and areas nearby for significant financial gain and profit. Court documents allege that the defendants acted in different roles to further the goals of the drug trafficking conspiracy, including acting as leaders, enforcers, runners, sellers, and facilitators.
The government also claimed that the co-conspirators conducted drug trafficking transactions at the basketball court of the PHPs in the presence of minors and used multiple vehicles to transport money, narcotics, and firearms. The acts alleged to have been performed in furtherance of the conspiracy included the delivery of heroin, cocaine, crack, marihuana, and prescription pills to clients. According to the indictment, some of the defendants also mixed the fentanyl into the heroin sold at the drug points.
The charged conduct included the use of force, violence, and intimidation to maintain control of the drug trafficking operations and intimidate rival gangs. Accordingly, eight defendants were also charged with possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The defendants are:
[1] Orlando Medina-Pérez, a/k/a “Orlan”
[2] Julio Cesar Santiago-Calvani, a/k/a “Yuca”
[3] Raymond Omar Alameda-Ramos, a/k/a “Pipita/Reymon”
[4] Luis Enrique Ramos-Feliciano, a/k/a “Luigui”
[5] José Pagán-Casiano, a/k/a “Pito Cancio”
[6] Carlos Claudio-Aquino, a/k/a “Carly Bemba”
[7] Luis Diego Echevarría-González, a/k/a “Pulin”
[8] Juan Carlos Colón-Cordero, a/k/a “Peca”
[9] Brian Oniel Vega-Sáez, a/k/a “Pollito”
[10] Alexander Arroyo-Lugo, a/k/a “Escobar”
[11] Julio Cesar Santiago-Ramos, a/k/a “Yuquita/Goldo”
[12] Jecksan Horrach-Pabón, a/k/a “Menor”
[13] Jomar Joel Horrach-Pabón, a/k/a “Yomo”
[14] Christian O. Montalvo-Casiano, a/k/a “Christian”
[15] James Steven Cupeles-Salas, a/k/a “Yain”
[16] Eniel Morales-Suárez, a/k/a “Liru/Lilu”
[17] Gabriel Enrique Mora-Ruiz, a/k/a “Gaby”
[18] Giovany Torres-Irizarry, a/k/a “Jova”
[19] Miguel A. Rosario-Toro, a/k/a “Tiri”
[20] Joachim Miguel Rosario-Toro, a/k/a “Tito”
[21] Ángel Lionel Flores-Vélez, a/k/a “Toto”
[22] Ángel L. Vázquez-Morales, a/k/a “Vazquez”
[23] Sergio Yamil Mercado-Rodríguez, a/k/a “Sergio”
[24] Luis Enrique Rodríguez-Reyes, a/k/a “Luisito”
[25] John Michael Hernández-Rivera, a/k/a “Buster/John John”
[26] Kelvin Joel Santana-Vega, a/k/a “Kelvin/Pimpollo/Pimpo”
[27] Roberto Moises Irizarry-Ruiz, a/k/a “Robert/Robertito”
[28] Hiram Ramón Sánchez-Ruiz, a/k/a “Hiram/Nene”
[29] Ángel Jazquiel Chaulizant-Mercado, a/k/a “Jazquiel”
[30] Javier Torres-Rodríguez, a/k/a “Guánica/Javy”
[31] Carlos Alberto Ayala-Rodríguez, a/k/a “Lajas”
[32] Ángel Rodríguez-Lugo, a/k/a “Cocolo”
[33] Jesse Ruiz-Desarden, a/k/a “Jesse”
[34] Andrés Moisés González-Ortiz, a/k/a “Andrés”
[35] Luis Ángel Miró-Gregory, a/k/a “Pito Cuchilla”
[36] Kevin Abel Santiago-Olivencia, a/k/a “Ñao”
[37] Ángel Jireh Ruiz-García, a/k/a “Ángel/Angelito/Ángel Culebra”
[38] Jesús Antonio Ruiz-Desarden
[39] Tamara Flores-Valentín, a/k/a “Jamilet”
[40] José Luis Vélez-Santana, a/k/a “Tuna”
[41] Catherine Muñiz-Martínez, a/k/a “Kathy”
[42] Jason Toro-Toro, a/k/a “Golin/Goline/Toto/Tubo”
[43] José Manuel Santiago-Cotte, a/k/a “Flaco/Jose”
[44] Julio Cesar Junior Cintrón-Collado, a/k/a “Jordan”
[45] José Daniel Martínez-Pagán, a/k/a “José”
[46] Joshua González-Muñiz, a/k/a “Jochi”
[47] Yecelys Marie Ortiz-Horrach, a/k/a “Yecelys/Mary”
[48] Diana Ruiz-Horrach, a/k/a “Diana/Titi”
[49] Alberto Uriel Rivera-Ortiz, a/k/a “Albert/Papo”
[50] Jonathan Quintana-Negrón, a/k/a “Cuajo/Cutino”
[51] Carlos Pantojas-Rodríguez, a/k/a “Bebi”
[52] Carolina Avilés-Rivera
[53] Edison Ruiz-Garallúa, a/k/a “Bolocho”
[54] Eliezer Avilés-Rivera, a/k/a “Papito”
[55] Jan Acosta-Vélez, a/k/a “Jan Tatuaje”
[56] Yadiel Javier Ortiz-Rivera, a/k/a “Yadiel Besito”
[57] Josenid Martin-Gregory, a/k/a “Jossy”
[58] Daisy Janet Sánchez- Ruiz, a/k/a “Daisy/Nena”
[59] Jilmarie Jymmyan Lebrón-Cordero, a/k/a “Linda”
[60] Karen Michelle Vega-López, a/k/a “Karen”
[61] Cristian Rivera-Torres, a/k/a “Cristian”
[62] Andrés Orlando Acevedo-Rivera, a/k/a “Andrés”
[63] Jordan Lugo-Méndez, a/k/a “Jordan”
If convicted, the defendants face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, and 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Pedro Casablanca and Cristina Caraballo Colón from the Gang Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office are prosecuting this OCDETF matter. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest‑level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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31 Year-Old Yakima Man Sentenced to 7 Years Imprisonment for Being a Felon in Possession of Firearms Stolen from Fish and Wildlife BuildingRead the Press Release
Yakima, Washington – On April 4, 2023, United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced
Alexander Scott Stevens, 31, a resident of Yakima, Washington, to seven years in federal prison
after his conviction for being a Felon in Possession of Firearms. Stevens will serve a three-year
term of court supervision after he is released from custody.According to information disclosed during court proceedings, on January 2, 2022, Yakima Police
Department (“YPD”) officers responded to an alarm that had been activated at the Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife. Officers observed that someone had severed the chain link
fence and cut a hole in the exterior wall of the building. A subsequent inventory revealed that 18
firearms and a suppressor had been stolen from the Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife. A YPD forensic investigator was able to develop a palm print impression that had been
left just above the hole in the exterior wall, and detectives confirmed that Stevens was the source
of the palm print impression. Given the number of firearms involved, YPD referred the case to
the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) and the case was worked
jointly. On January 24, 2022, Stevens was taken into custody by YPD. A criminal complaint
was filed in federal court and Stevens was taken into custody. On February 15, 2022, a federal
Grand Jury returned an Indictment charging Stevens with being a Felon in Possession of
Firearms.“This case highlights the force multiplier effects of local and federal law enforcement agencies
working closely together,” remarked Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern
District of Washington. “I commend YPD and ATF, whose hard work and effective
investigation resulted in Mr. Stevens being quickly apprehended, and 18 stolen guns being
removed from the hands of a convicted felon. The consistent collaboration of YPD and ATF
have made our neighborhoods and communities in Eastern Washington safer and stronger.”“ATF will do what it takes to get stolen firearms off the streets,” said ATF Seattle Field Division
Special Agent in Charge Jonathan T. McPherson. “The brazen actions of Mr. Stevens truly
justify this sentence. It was no small thing to break into a state facility by cutting a hole in the
building or to steal more than a dozen firearms. As a convicted felon, Mr. Stevens was not
legally permitted to possess firearms in the first place.”“Gun violence is a prevalent and continuing threat to society,” stated Yakima Police Department
Chief Matthew Murray. “As we have seen all across the country, violent offenders are using
firearms to perpetrate violent crimes that range from robbery to murder. As a result of the
remarkable collaboration between state and federal partners in the Eastern District, justice has
again been served. I commend and continue to appreciate the partnerships between YPD, ATF,
the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”This case was prosecuted under the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program. PSN is a
federal, state, and local law enforcement collaboration to identify, investigate, and prosecute
individuals responsible for violent crimes in our neighborhoods. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is
partnering with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement to specifically identify the
criminals responsible for violent crime in the Eastern District of Washington and pursue criminal
prosecution.This case was investigated by the Yakima Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,
Firearms, and Explosives, the Union Gap Police Department, and the Washington State Patrol.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Swensen.1:22-CR-2017-MKD
Tuesday 11 April 2023
Windsor Locks Man Who Victimized Teens Through Snapchat Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael J. Krol, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston, announced that JUSTIN McKENNEY, 29, formerly of Windsor Locks, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to child exploitation offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in Court, in October 2021, Glastonbury Police began investigating the sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl by an individual she met on Snapchat. The investigation revealed that McKenney, posing as a high school student and using the Snapchat username “keepingupg,” began communicating with the minor victim in September 2021, and he subsequently enticed her to engage in sexual activity. In pleading guilty, McKenney also admitted that he received child pornography from three other minor females between the ages of 13 and 17.
McKenney pleaded guilty to one count of enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life, and one count of receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey A. Meyer in New Haven on July 11.
McKenney has been detained since his arrest on March 17, 2022.
This matter has been investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Glastonbury Police Department, the Windsor Locks Police Department, the Manchester Police Department, and the Connecticut Center for Digital Investigations, with the assistance of the Hudson (Mass.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
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.
West Plains Man Indicted for Stealing Timber from Mark Twain National ForestRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A West Plains, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for stealing timber from Mark Twain National Forest.
Justin Lee Massey, 39, was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.
Today’s indictment alleges that Massey stole timber from federal property in Howell County, Mo., between Dec. 15, 2020, and Jan. 20, 2021. The indictment also includes a forfeiture allegation, which would require Massey to forfeit to the government any property obtained from the alleged violation, including a money judgment of $30,000.
The charge contained in this indictment is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge 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 Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the U.S. Forestry Service.
Urologist Charged with Sexually Abusing PatientsRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Michael J. Driscoll, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced the unsealing today of a four-count Indictment charging DARIUS A. PADUCH, a New York–area urologist, with inducement of a person to travel to engage in unlawful sexual activity and inducement of a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity for his yearslong sexual abuse of two victims who were his patients and who were minors during part of the period of abuse. PADUCH was arrested this morning and will be presented before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah L. Cave this afternoon. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Ronnie Abrams.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, for years, Darius Paduch abused the trust of patients, including minors, who saw him for sensitive medical problems. Paduch took advantage of his victims for his own deviant satisfaction. Thanks to this morning’s arrest, Paduch’s abuse of his patients ends today.”
FBI Assistant Director in Charge Michael J. Driscoll said: “The indictment unsealed today against Paduch, a New York-area doctor, details alleged systemic abuse of a number of patients, to include minors, over the course of several years. Sexual abuse of anyone at any age for any reason is a horrific crime that carries strict penalties. If you have been victimized by Darius Paduch in any way or have any additional information about his alleged illegal behavior, please call us at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or reach out to us at tips.fbi.gov.”
According to the allegations in the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court:[1]
Over the course of several years, PADUCH sexually abused multiple male patients, including minor male patients, while conducting purported urological examinations in his capacity as a medical doctor employed by a prestigious medical institution in New York, New York (“Medical Institution-1”).
From at least in or about 2015 through at least in or about 2019, PADUCH, while working as a urologist, enticed and induced multiple victims to travel to his medical offices at Medical Institution-1, so PADUCH could, among other things, sexually abuse the victims. In or about 2019, PADUCH began practicing at a different hospital located in Long Island, New York (“Medical Institution-2”), where he continued to sexually abuse patients. PADUCH used his position as a urologist at prominent medical institutions in New York to make or attempt to make the victims believe that the sexual abuse he inflicted on them was medically necessary and appropriate, when, in fact, it was not. PADUCH often directed the victims to schedule follow-up visits, and he instructed victims to return to see him again. As a result, some of the victims attended many appointments with PADUCH over the course of multiple years, at which PADUCH repeatedly abused them.
After appointments, PADUCH sent certain victims — including minor victims — text messages from his personal cellphone. In those messages, he made inappropriate and sexual comments and jokes, and he directed the victims to schedule follow-up appointments or to visit his office after regular business hours.
As alleged, PADUCH induced two victims to travel to New York, New York, from or through another state to engage in unlawful sexual activity — in other words, his abuse of the victims. PADUCH also used a telephone and other means of interstate commerce to induce two minor victims to engage in the unlawful sexual activity.
* * *
PADUCH, 55, of North Bergen, New Jersey, is charged with inducement of a victim (“Minor Victim-1”) to travel to engage in unlawful sexual activity, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; inducement of a victim (“Minor Victim-2”) to travel to engage in unlawful sexual activity, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; inducement of Minor Victim-1 to engage in unlawful sexual activity, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison; and inducement of Minor Victim-2 to engage in unlawful sexual activity, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison.
The minimum and maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI.
The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marguerite B. Colson, Elizabeth A. Espinosa, and Jun Xiang are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the descriptions of the Indictment set forth below constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Two Men Charged with 2012 Drug-Related Murder in HartfordRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Hartford Police Chief Jason Thody today announced the unsealing of an indictment charging MELKUAN SCOTT, also known as “Mel,” “Young God,” “Young,” and “YG,” 32, and ARTHUR STANLEY, also known as “Wig,” 33, with the drug-related murder of Serafin Velez in Hartford on February 16, 2012.
On February 14, 2023, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned a two-count indictment charging Scott and Stanley with the kidnapping of Velez resulting in his death, and with causing the death of Velez through the use of a firearm. The indictment alleges that Scott and Stanley murdered Velez during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and that they did so deliberately, maliciously, and with premeditation.
Scott and Stanley, both formerly of Hartford, have been detained in federal custody since April 2014 and are currently serving sentences for other offenses. They each appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford and entered pleas of not guilty, and Judge Farrish ordered the indictment unsealed.
If convicted of the charges, Scott and Stanley face a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment, or death if the government seeks the death penalty in the matter.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys A. Reed Durham and Robert S. Ruff.
Two Brothers Charged with Trafficking Fentanyl and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two brothers have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Boston for allegedly conspiring to traffic large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Noel Haro, 48, of Shirley and Marcos Haro, 38, of Sacramento, Calif., were indicted on one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 40 grams or more of fentanyl; two counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; aiding and abetting; and one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl; aiding and abetting. Marcos Haro was arrested on April 4, 2023 in the Eastern District of California and remains in federal custody. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.
“Law enforcement listens to calls made from carceral facilities. Despite this known fact, we allege these brothers conspired together to distribute alarmingly significant amounts of fentanyl and methamphetamine in our Commonwealth. Both of these defendants are very much aware of the risks and harm involved with selling drugs, with Marcos having spent seven years in prison for possessing a controlled substance while armed with an assault weapon and Noel engaging in this conduct while incarcerated and serving a life sentence for drug distribution, conspiracy and money laundering,” said United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins. “This brazen behavior will be met with the full force of federal government resources and prosecution.”
“Despite being locked up behind bars, Noel Haro is still an influential leader in a large-scale international gang that is heavily involved in drug, weapons, and human trafficking, and now stands accused of conspiring with his brother, Marcos, to traffic large amounts of deadly fentanyl and methamphetamine into Massachusetts,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “These latest arrests in connection with ‘Operation Raising Arizona’ are a significant blow to this drug trafficking organization that has thrived on peddling poison, resulting in pain, violence, and destruction in our communities.”
“Partnerships with public safety agencies play an important part of the Department's mission and are crucial in protecting our communities,” said the Department of Correction’s Commissioner Carol Mici. “The Massachusetts Department of Correction is extremely proud of its investigators from the Office of Investigative Services and their role in this investigation."
According to the charging documents, Noel Haro is a member and influential leader of the “Border Brothers” gang – a large-scale international gang known to be heavily involved in drug, weapon and human trafficking in Southern Arizona with a presence in Nogales, Mexico and the Arizona prison system. Noel Haro is currently serving a life sentence at a Massachusetts Department of Correction facility in connection with convictions in Arizona for drug distribution, conspiracy and money laundering.
Noel Haro was previously serving his sentence at a facility in Arizona but was transferred to serve his sentence in Massachusetts upon being deemed a security concern due to his alleged influence over other inmates and repeated introduction of cell phones and narcotics into Arizona facilities.
Beginning in or about April 2019, and investigation began into Noel Haro’s alleged attempts to facilitate the trafficking of narcotics to Massachusetts during his inmate phone calls. Specifically, during his inmate calls, Noel Haro allegedly attempted to solicit friends and family members to transport narcotics from Arizona to Massachusetts on his behalf. In April 2022, recorded inmate calls allegedly indicated that Noel Haro worked with his brother, Marcos Haro, to arrange drug deals outside of prison.
According to court documents, in June 2022, Marcos Haro agreed to supply an individual with samples of multiple narcotics – including fentanyl and methamphetamine. It is alleged that Marcos Haro later mailed the narcotics to the individual concealed in a purple teddy bear inside a postal package. It is alleged that, on July 13, 2022, the package was retrieved and found to contain suspected powdered fentanyl, five fentanyl pills, methamphetamine and approximately 3.1 grams of suspected heroin. On July 25, 2022, during a recorded inmate call, Noel Haro and Marcos Haro allegedly discussed selling one pound of methamphetamine to the same individual and agreed on a sale price of $5,000. It is alleged that, on July 27, 2022, a package sent from Marcos Haro was retrieved and found to contain approximately 446.6 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine.
During a recorded inmate call on Aug. 10, 2022, Noel Haro allegedly directed Marcos Haro to arrange the sale of five pounds of methamphetamine to the individual. Later, on Sept. 12, 2022, two packages allegedly sent from Marcos Haro were retrieved and each found to contain approximately 892.3 grams of 86% pure methamphetamine and approximately 1,320.2 grams of 95% pure methamphetamine.
In October 2022, the individual communicated with Marcos Haro to arrange the purchase of 2,000 fentanyl pills. On Oct. 16, 2022, Noel and Marcos Haro allegedly discussed the deal and pricing of the fentanyl pills during recorded inmate calls and on Nov. 17, 2022, Marcos sent the individual a photograph of a United States Postal Service shipping box and label, and a photograph of a shipping receipt. On Nov. 20, 2022, a package allegedly sent by Marcos Haro to the individual was seized and found to contain approximately 2,000 blue pills which tested positive for approximately 215.3 grams of fentanyl.
According to court documents, on April 2, 2023, Marcos Haro was arrested in Sacramento, Calif. following a motor vehicle stop. A 9mm handgun with eight live rounds in the magazine and approximately 2.9 grams of suspected fentanyl that field tested positive for the presence of opiates, were allegedly found during a subsequent search of Marcos Haro’s vehicle. Marcos Haro has a criminal history that includes a conviction in 2016 for possession of a controlled substance while armed and illegal possession of an assault weapon with a large capacity magazine, for which he was sentenced to seven years in prison.
The charge conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 40 grams or more of fentanyl provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charges of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; aiding and abetting each provide for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl; aiding and abetting provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. 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.
U.S. Attorney Rollins, FBI SAC Bonavolonta and Commissioner Mici made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alathea E. Porter and Charles Dell’Anno of Rollins’ Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit 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.
Troy Man Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama – Today, Jesse Morgan Hinson, 36, formerly of Troy, Alabama, pleaded guilty to mail fraud, announced United States Attorney Sandra J. Stewart. The Alabama Securities Commission provided valuable assistance in the investigation and prosecution of the case.
According to the plea agreement and other court documents, in 2022, Hinson engaged in schemes to defraud multiple victims by falsely representing himself to be a man of great wealth with the ability to conduct profitable real estate transactions. He convinced victims to give him money based on promises of future financial benefits. However, Hinson had no significant assets and intended to take his victims’ money for his own use. Hinson also failed to let his victims know that he had prior convictions for securities fraud, including convictions on Alabama securities fraud charges as recently as March and April of 2022. Hinson was in custody of the Alabama Department of Corrections as of April 30, 2022.
In his plea agreement, Hinson specifically admitted that, in March of 2022, he defrauded an individual in Butler County by claiming that Hinson could finance real estate purchases for a 10 percent down payment. This was not true. Hinson obtained approximately $66,500.00 from the Butler County victim despite Hinson having no ability to finance real estate purchases, and none of the proceeds were used for the victim’s benefit. Instead, Hinson used much of these funds to pay personal expenses and to pay the debts of a woman with whom he had a romantic relationship. After the Butler County victim began demanding his money back, to discourage him from speaking with law enforcement, Hinson, posing as a New York attorney, telephoned the victim, falsely stated that Hinson would be receiving the proceeds of an $11 million loan, and then threatened to bankrupt the victim by opening competing businesses.
Additionally, in April of 2022 and continuing after his incarceration on April 30 of that year, Hinson, as he admitted during his plea hearing, defrauded two other individuals from Tuscaloosa. Hinson told the victims that he would provide them with the profits from the sale of land that Hinson claimed to own to Auburn University if the victims would provide money upfront for taxes. During the course of discussions with the Tuscaloosa victims, Hinson had someone make false misrepresentations to the victims claiming that Hinson controlled assets in the range of $2 to $3 billion. This claim was also untrue. The Tuscaloosa victims provided multiple payments to Hinson’s attorney and to Hinson’s girlfriend totaling $124,028.80.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled in the coming months. At that hearing, Hinson will face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, along with substantial fines and restitution.
“Mr. Hinson has a checkered history of engaging in securities fraud schemes,” said United States Attorney Stewart. “I commend the work of the investigators and prosecutors who unraveled the brazen schemes at issue in this case, thus protecting the public from falling victim to Hinson’s lies.”
“Jesse Morgan Hinson has worked hard to build a horrible reputation of deceiving folks,” said Alabama Securities Commission Chief Deputy Director Amanda Senn. “We encourage everyone to research who you invest your hard-earned money with to avoid career criminals like Hinson, who has left a path of financial devastation and destruction in his wake.”
The United States Secret Service and the Alabama Securities Commission investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Stephen K. Moulton and Special Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew O. Schiff and Amanda Senn of the Alabama Securities Commission are prosecuting the case.
Third Defendant in Pleads Guilty in Double Armed Carjacking CaseRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Dayon Hackett, 20, of Philadelphia, PA, pleaded guilty today to one count of carjacking and one count of attempted carjacking. Hackett and his co-defendants, Jaheym Newsome, 20, of Philadelphia, and Taquan Mershon, 19, of Philadelphia, were charged by Superseding Indictment with these offenses in connection with an armed carjacking they committed on December 22, 2021, in the Bridesburg section of Philadelphia, and an attempted armed carjacking in South Philadelphia later that same day. Newsome and Mershon pleaded guilty to these same charges on March 20, 2023.
As detailed in the Criminal Complaints previously filed in this case, in the first incident, Hackett, Newsome, and Mershon carjacked a man at gunpoint as he prepared to head to work in early morning hours of December 22, 2021. The three men then took the car they stole in Bridesburg and drove it South Philadelphia, where they attempted to carjack a man who was coming home from work and looking for a parking spot. Hackett and Newsome opened the door to that vehicle and attempted to pull the victim out of the car. Upon observing a firearm on the victim’s lap, Hackett and Newsome opened fire on the victim, striking him multiple times. The victim returned fire and Hackett was struck multiple times. Hackett and Newsome then returned to the waiting vehicle that Mershon was driving, and Mershon and Newsome dropped Hackett on the floor of a nearby emergency room, fleeing in the vehicle they had carjacked earlier that morning. All three individuals were subsequently identified, charged by federal Criminal Complaint, and taken into custody. A grand jury returned the Superseding Indictment on September 13, 2022.
“Today’s guilty plea is another fine example of the successful partnership that is the Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “If you commit a violent offense like a gunpoint carjacking, you can expect the federal authorities to come knocking at your door.”
“ATF is on the frontline in the fight against violent crime, particularly armed carjackings,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in charge of ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “While we hope this case deters those willing to use gun violence against American citizens, ATF investigators stand ready to work with our local, state and federal partners whenever gun crime occurs in our community.”
The swift and relentless action to investigate and federally charge these defendants is the result of the Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force, which is comprised of members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Violent Crime Unit; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Philadelphia Police Department. The goal of the Taskforce is to stem the wave of armed carjackings and violent crimes through investigative and enforcement techniques meant to identify and refer for federal prosecution all who terrorize innocent victims through commission of these offenses within Philadelphia and surrounding areas.
After pleading guilty, Newsome is set to be sentenced on July 12, 2023, Mershon is set to be sentenced on July 24, 2023, and Hackett is set to be sentenced on August 14, 2023, before the Honorable Nitza I. Quinones-Alejandro.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Eckert.
Syracuse Man Sentenced to 138 Months for Distributing Fentanyl and Unlawfully Carrying a FirearmRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Maurice Owens, age 22, of Syracuse, was sentenced today to serve 138 months in prison following his conviction for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, distributing and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, and using and carrying a firearm while drug-trafficking announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
During his prior guilty plea, Owens admitted that he sold fentanyl to a customer on December 2, 2020, and December 7, 2020. On December 10, 2020, Owens was sitting in a car in a parking lot near where he previously had sold fentanyl. He saw police officers approaching, exited the car, and fled while carrying a loaded “ghost gun” that did not bear any serial number. Owens also had in his possession at the time three glassine envelopes containing fentanyl. Owens previously was convicted of a felony offense in state court and was prohibited under state law from possessing the gun.
From approximately December 10, 2020, until February 27, 2021, Owens was detained in a local jail. While incarcerated, Owens participated in multiple calls in which he arranged for associates to supply heroin and fentanyl to the customers to whom Owens no longer could sell because he was in jail. Owens received a share of the proceeds from these sales. Owens and his associates sold at least 81 grams of fentanyl.
United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also sentenced Owens to a four-year term of supervised release to begin after he serves his term of imprisonment and ordered him to pay a forfeiture judgment in the amount of $6,200, which represented the proceeds from drug sales.
This case was investigated by ATF and the Syracuse Police Department Criminal Intelligence Section. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Sutcliffe and former Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Beaty prosecuted this case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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.
Suburban Nurse Pleads Guilty to Tampering with Patient MedicationsRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago nurse has pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of tampering with a consumer product.
SARAH DIAMOND, 30, of Woodstock was employed as the Assistant Director of Nursing at a Chicago-area medical rehabilitation center where she was responsible for dispensing medications to patients. In July and August 2021, Diamond removed morphine from bottles prescribed to patients and replaced it with another liquid, knowing the diluted substance would be dispensed to the patients. Diamond removed the morphine with reckless disregard and extreme indifference for the risk that the patients would be placed in danger of bodily injury.
Diamond diluted a bottle of morphine intended for one of the patients, so that it contained only approximately 26% of the declared amount of morphine; and diluted a bottle of morphine intended for another patient so that it contained only approximately 53% of the declared amount of morphine. Diamond then administered liquid morphine to these patients using the diluted bottles, withholding the remainder of the pain medication intended for them for her own personal use. In total, Diamond removed liquid morphine intended for use by at least five patients at the rehabilitation center, each of whom had been prescribed liquid morphine to manage their pain.
A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. Diamond faces up to a maximum of ten years in federal prison.
The plea is announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; and Ronne G. Malham, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations. Valuable assistance was provided by the Crystal Lake Police Department. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heidi Manschreck.
Springfield Man Sentenced to 35 Years for Child Sexual Abuse, Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for sexually assaulting a child victim and recording the abuse on his cell phone.
William Shane Berg, 50, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 35 years in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Berg to spend the rest of his life on supervised release following incarceration.
On June 2, 2022, Berg pleaded guilty to one count of the sexual exploitation of a minor and one count of receiving child pornography over the internet. Berg admitted that he sexually abused a minor victim, identified in court documents as John Doe 2.
Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Berg’s residence on April 12, 2020, and seized a laptop computer, VHS tapes, CDs, two laptop hard drives, a portable hard drive, a CD writer, USB drives, a camera and media card, three Chromebooks, and a cell phone. Investigators found multiple files on the cell phone and the laptop computer that depicted Berg sexually abusing John Doe 2. They also found additional files of child pornography that Berg downloaded from the internet.
When the victim was interviewed at the Springfield Child Advocacy Center, he told investigators that Berg started sexually abusing him when he was in the fifth grade. He said Berg took videos on his cell phone during the sexual abuse.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, the FBI and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
South Florida Marketer Sentenced to Prison Term for Buying and Selling over 2.6 Million Medicare Beneficiary Identification NumbersRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A Palm Beach County man was sentenced on Friday in federal court to 41 months in prison following his earlier guilty plea to buying and selling more than 2.6 million Medicare beneficiary identification numbers, along with other personal identifiers.
In one of the first prosecutions brought under The Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015 (MACRA), Charles William McElwee, 36, was sentenced to 41 months imprisonment following his guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to violate MACRA by buying and selling beneficiary identification numbers.
Among other things, MACRA makes it illegal to buy, sell, or distribute without lawful authority Medicare or Medicaid beneficiary numbers. (Title 42, United States Code, Section 1320a-7b(b)(4)).
As part of his plea, McElwee admitted that he and his co-conspirators used “data mining” and “social engineering techniques” to collect Medicare beneficiary information, which McElwee then advertised and sold online. The trafficked information included beneficiary names, addresses, dates of birth, social security numbers, and Medicare beneficiary identification numbers. According to the indictment, some of the illicit transactions involved foreign actors, including sellers in the Philippines and buyers in Egypt.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Omar Pérez Aybar of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Miami Region; and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, announced the sentence.
HHS-OIG Miami and FBI Miami investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Juenger prosecuted it. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daren Grove is handling asset forfeiture.
Medicare beneficiaries who believe they have been a victim of medical identity theft can file a complaint with the HHS-OIG hotline by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477) or with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 22-cr-60202.
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Sophisticated Sinaloa Cartel Money Laundering Organization DismantledRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – April 11, 2023
SAN DIEGO – A two-year investigation by FBI and DEA has resulted in the indictment of twelve people, the takedown of a transnational criminal organization that allegedly laundered at least $16.5 million for the Sinaloa cartel, and the rescue of two victims of an extortion plot.
Defendant Cristian Amaya Nava was the first to be sentenced in federal court yesterday to 60 months in prison in connection with the extortion and money laundering charges. In his plea agreement, he admitted that in February of 2021, he forced two victims to withdraw funds from their own accounts to repay a drug debt, under threat of harm to themselves and their families. In addition, he admitted that he laundered over $2.4 million for the cartel.
According to the superseding indictment, an investigation was initiated in the fall of 2020 after FBI agents identified a complex money laundering organization allegedly led by Enrique Daan Esparragoza Rosas of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico. The indictment said Esparragoza’s organization used a network of shell companies incorporated in Wyoming to launder millions of dollars in cash belonging to the Sinaloa Cartel. The shell companies and a sophisticated financial network were created and overseen by Luis Ramirez, a U.S. citizen residing in Mesa, Arizona, the indictment said.
Ramirez and Esparragoza allegedly directed and facilitated employees of the money laundering organization to travel to cities throughout the United States to pick up bulk cash belonging to narcotics traffickers. The employees picked up the bulk cash in Chicago, Omaha, Boston, New York City, Baltimore, Charlotte, Philadelphia and other cities. Narcotics traffickers delivered bulk cash in amounts of up to $200,000 to the employees in hotel rooms and parking lots. Following the delivery of the illegal money, the criminal organization laundered the funds through the shell companies and then transferred the laundered funds to bank accounts in Mexico. In total, dozens of bank accounts used by the organization were targeted, resulting in the seizure of $1 million from those accounts plus about $197,430 in bulk cash.
In November 2020, the FBI worked with the DEA Chicago Field Office to conduct an operation using information from the investigation which resulted in the seizure of 368 pounds of crystal methamphetamine and 10 kilograms of heroin, allegedly from defendants Sugey Caro Salazar and Idsel Valenzuela in LaPorte, Indiana. They are accused of delivering cash to an employee of the money laundering organization.
According to the indictment, funds laundered by the organization were used to purchase a Volvo tractor-trailer that FBI agents seized near Las Vegas; and aircraft and aircraft engines for export to Mexico, among other things.
In the extortion plot, the FBI’s efforts resulted in a successful rescue of two victims who were being extorted by the money laundering organization in February 2021. Prior to the extortion, one of the victims, an employee of the money laundering organization, began stealing illicit funds from a bank account that he controlled for the organization. Under pressure from the organization to return the stolen funds, the victim and his family member concocted an unsuccessful scheme to repay the debt: He stole an additional $30,000 from the money laundering organization to purchase a tortilla machine, intending to resell it for a profit. The pair owed a substantial debt to the money laundering organization.
According to the indictment, when Esparragoza and Ramirez learned of the theft, they conspired to threaten and extort the pair to repay the funds. Esparragoza sent defendant Amaya Nava to threaten the men and their families. Amaya Nava has admitted that he drove the two men around Imperial and San Diego County to collect money from bank accounts they controlled. According to admissions in Amaya Nava’s plea agreement, Esparragoza also directly threatened the men and their families during several phone conversations that day, telling them that two truckloads of men from Tijuana would “take care of them” if they did anything stupid.
The FBI learned of the ongoing extortion after being alerted by an informant and began tracking the victims and Amaya Nava’s movements. Amaya Nava drove with the men from El Centro to San Diego in an effort to collect additional money from an associate of one of the victims. FBI agents coordinated with the National City Police Department to conduct a traffic stop wherein Amaya Nava was arrested and the two victims were rescued.
To date the investigation has resulted in the arrests of Amaya Nava and Luis Ramirez, who were charged with extortion and money laundering charges; Ivan Correia Zamora, Ricardo Torres, Kimberlly Reyes, Hector Francisco Vizcaino Moreno, Luis Armando Avila, and Cheliann Rivera Vazquez who are facing money laundering charges; Melvin Rosado (aka) Cristian Cruz Polanco has been arrested on money laundering and aggravated identity theft charges. Sugey Caro Salazar and Idsel Valenzuela have been arrested and charged with narcotics trafficking and money laundering. Enrique Daan Esparragoza Rosas has been charged with money laundering and extortion offenses. Enrique Daan Esparragoza Rosas has been charged with money laundering and extortion offenses. All but two defendants are pending trial. Enrique Daan Esparragoza Rosas and Ivan Correia are fugitives.
“Mexican drug cartels cannot succeed without money launderers,” said U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman. “Our office will prosecute not only those who traffic in drugs but also those who enable the drug traffickers through sophisticated shell corporations and multiple bank accounts.” Grossman thanked the prosecution team and the FBI for their excellent work on this case.
“This operation highlights how the FBI and our law enforcement partners are joining efforts to dismantle organized, violent, criminal enterprises,” said Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy of the FBI San Diego Field Office. “These enterprises create a space for cartels to exist and we will spare no resources when it comes to addressing the criminals who enable the flow of poison to our communities.”
“Drug cartels exist to profit from the sale of poison to our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Shelly Howe. “The DEA and our law enforcement partners will continue to target and dismantle money laundering organizations operating in the Imperial Valley that facilitate the movement of drug proceeds from the United States to Mexico-based drug cartels.”
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
DEFENDANTS Case Number 22cr2185-BAS
Enrique Daan Esparragoza Rosas Age: 37 Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico
Luis Ramirez Age: 41 Mesa, Arizona
Ricardo Torres Age: 30 El Centro, California
Kimberlly Reyes Age: 24 Mexicali, Mexico
Hector Francisco Vizcaino Moreno Age: 33 Calexico, California
Cristian Jose Polanco Age: 52 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Cheliann Rivera Vazquez Age: 29 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Luis Armando Avila Age: 22 Ontario, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Money Laundering Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1956(h)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $500,000 fine
Esparragoza Rosas and Luis Ramirez - Only
Hobbs Act Extortion - Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1951(a)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
Cristian Jose Polanco – Only
Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1028A(a)(1) – Aggravated Identity Theft
Maximum penalty: Two years in prison and $250,000 fine
Case Number 21cr1693
Cristian Amaya Nava Age: 37 Calexico, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Money Laundering Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1956(h)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $500,000 fine
Hobbs Act Extortion - Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1951(a)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
Case Number 22cr1477
Ivan Correia Zamora Age: 37 San Diego, California
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Money Laundering Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1956(h)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $500,000 fine
Case Number 22cr0612 and 22cr0776
Sugey Caro-Salazar Age: 46 La Porte, Indiana
Idsel Valenzuela Age: 27 La Porte, Indiana
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Money Laundering Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1956(h)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $500,000 fine
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine – Title 21, U.S.C., Section 846 and 841(a)(1)
Maximum penalty: Life in prison; mandatory minimum 10 years in prison and $10,000,000 fine
AGENCIES
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Drug Enforcement Administration
This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high-level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.
Social Security Benefit Fraud Ring Participant from Florida Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jenice Nicholas, 35, of Pompano Beach, Florida, was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison for her participation in a conspiracy to steal from the Social Security Administration (SSA), U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between February 2018 and June 2021, Nicholas participated in a conspiracy that sought to steal Social Security benefits intended for beneficiaries. Her co‑conspirators contacted SSA customer service representatives posing as Social Security beneficiaries by using personally identifiable information. They would convince the customer service representative to change the direct deposit account number associated with the true beneficiary’s account to that associated with drop accounts, i.e., expendable accounts used to funnel or transfer proceeds of a crime. For many of the direct deposit account changes that her co-conspirators caused, the SSA deposited monthly payments into the drop accounts, thus depriving the actual beneficiaries of their monthly benefits.
Debit cards connected to these drop accounts were then mailed to Nicholas and other co‑conspirators. On several occasions, Nicholas withdrew the stolen Social Security benefit payments from the drop accounts and deposited at least a portion of the money into one or more bank accounts that were accessible to her co-conspirators. The loss to the SSA and the United States resulting from the conspirators’ offenses exceeded $234,000. As part of her sentence, Nicholas was also ordered to pay $234,378 in restitution to the SSA.
This case was the product of an investigation by the SSA’s Office of the Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dhruv M. Sharma prosecuted the case.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on April 10, 2023.
Steven Flood, age 38, was sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Flood was indicted by a federal grand jury in November of 2022. He pleaded guilty on January 17, 2023.
The conviction stems from Flood failing to register as a sex offender as required by federal law between June 15, 2022, and August 4, 2022. Flood had previously been convicted of a sex offense in federal court which requires him to register for the rest of his life.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by 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.
Flood was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
San Antonio Man Sentenced for Assault on National Park Service RangerRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man was sentenced in a federal court in San Antonio today to three months in prison and one year of supervised release for assault on a federal officer.
According to court documents, Daniel Ignacio Lizcano, 26, resisted arrest during an encounter with a National Park Service Ranger at the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. Lizcano had been reported along with a female for suspicious activity at the San Jose Visitor Center bathroom within the park and was located with a vape tool and glass pipe. During an initial interview at the scene, Lizcano began to reach into his pocket, where a personal stun gun was later located. Lizcano refused to follow the park ranger’s instructions to drop what was in his hands, the park ranger attempted to place him under arrest and a struggle ensued. The park ranger called for support from additional officers and received assistance from a civilian passerby to gain control of Lizcano. Lizcano pleaded guilty March 28 to one count of assault on a federal officer.
“Our national parks are protected land where everyone should be able to enjoy the beauty of America and the unique heritage of the region,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza of the Western District of Texas. “I appreciate the efforts our law enforcement partners at the National Park Service make to keep our parks safe, accessible and welcoming to all.”
"National Park Service law enforcement rangers serve a critical visitor and resource protection role, and as Superintendent of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, I am committed to ensuring the safety of our employees and visitors,” said Christine Jacobs, Superintendent of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. “The National Park Service appreciates the support from the United States Attorney's Office through prosecution of this individual who assaulted a federal officer and for the court holding him accountable.”
The National Park Service investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Fidel Esparza III prosecuted the case.
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Sacramento Attorney and Filer of ADA Lawsuits Sentenced for Filing False Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Scott Norris Johnson, a Sacramento attorney and filer of thousands of disability discrimination lawsuits, was sentenced today to 18 months home detention as part of a 30-month term of probation, and ordered to pay $250,000 in restitution and a $50,000 fine, for filing a false tax return on which he underreported the income he earned from many of those lawsuits, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert and Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division announced.
The sentence included the terms that while on probation Johnson may not reapply for reinstatement to the California Bar, and that during the period of home detention he may not leave home for the purpose of seeking violations of the ADA or Unruh Act in order to file suits in federal or state courts.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Johnson, 61, of Carmichael, owned and operated Disabled Access Prevents Injury Inc. (DAPI), a legal services corporation. First using DAPI, and later using a law firm, Johnson filed thousands of lawsuits in the Eastern District of California and elsewhere under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and related California statutes, naming himself as the plaintiff.
Under the Small Business Job Protection Act of 1996, payments related to lawsuit settlements or awards are taxable unless paid on account of personal physical injury or physical sickness. Johnson, who worked as an attorney at the IRS earlier in his career, was required to report the taxable portion of the lawsuit settlements and awards he received. He nonetheless intentionally underreported this income on his 2012, 2013, and 2014 tax returns. By understating the lawsuit settlements and awards, Johnson and DAPI paid little to no income tax for tax years 2012, 2013 and 2014. Johnson caused a loss to the IRS of more than $250,000.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine T. Lydon and Assistant Chief Matthew J. Kluge of the Tax Division prosecuted the case.
Richmond man convicted for making illegal referralsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A federal jury has returned a guilty verdict against a 44-year-old health care marketer in a conspiracy to pay and receive health care kickbacks, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
The jury deliberated for 15 minutes following a two-day trial before finding Patrick Osemwengie, Richmond, guilty of a one-count conspiracy to pay and receive kickbacks.
“Health care peddlers like Osemwengie prey on the elderly and are part of the larger health care fraud problem,” said Hamdani. “Illegal kickbacks and related crimes damages Medicare’s ability to help those that truly need it. We will continue to prosecute these individuals and work to preserve the system designed to protect and insure our nations’ most vulnerable citizens.”
At trial, the jury heard from witnesses from Ebra Home Health who testified Osemwengie would sell them Medicare patients. He charged $500 a kickback for an initial home health certification and a $250 kickback for a recertification.
A Medicare representative testified that Medicare prohibits payment of kickbacks for home health services.
The jury also heard from an elderly Medicare beneficiary who explained how Osemwengie paid him money to sign up for home health care companies including Ebra Home Health. He testified he was not able to get home health when he actually needed it because of the past fraudulent billings Osemwengie helped facilitate.
Evidence revealed Osemwengie received $13,000 in kickback payments from Ebra Health Care Services.
The defense attempted to convince the jury Osemwengie was being paid $50 an hour for passing out flyers and not that the money was a result of kickbacks. However, the owner of Ebra Home Health refuted that assertion at trial and testified Osemwengie was paid per patient, in violation of the anti-kickback statute. The jury did not believe the defense and found Osemwengie guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake presided over the trial and has set sentencing for July 7. At that time, Osemwengie faces up to five years in federal prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Osemwengie was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
The Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General and FBI conducted the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Abdul Farukhi and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Latham prosecuted the case.