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Thursday 1 December 2022
Second former U.S. soldier admits guilt in attack that killed Fort Stewart servicememberRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: A former U.S. Army service member has admitted his involvement in a plot that led to the stabbing death of a former fellow soldier whose body was found in his Fort Stewart barracks room in June 2020.
Jordan Brown, 21, of St. Marys, Ga., awaits sentencing after entering a plea of guilty to Assault Upon a U.S. Servicemember Involving Bodily Injury or a Deadly Weapon, and Retaliation Against a Witness Involving Bodily Injury, said David H. Estes, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. The terms of the plea agreement, which U.S. District Court Judge R. Stan Baker will consider at sentencing in deciding whether to accept the plea, subject Brown to a sentence of not less than 198 months in prison, nor more than 240 months, along with potential fines and restitution, followed by three years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Brown’s co-defendant, Byron Booker, 29, of Ludowici, Ga., awaits sentencing after previously pleading guilty to Premeditated Murder of a Member of the United States Uniformed Services. In accordance with his plea agreement, Booker faces a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison.
“The guilty pleas of these two defendants firmly establish their culpability in the despicable murder of a former fellow soldier in retaliation for performing his duties as a service member,” said U.S. Attorney Estes, a retired U.S. Army Colonel. “They will now be held accountable for their bloody conspiracy.”
In his prior guilty plea, Booker, a former U.S. Army sergeant, admitted he and Brown, a former U.S. Army specialist, discussed “silencing” Specialist Austin J. Hawk, 21, at Fort Stewart Military Reservation. Hawk’s subsequent murder was in retaliation for Hawk reporting Brown to U.S. Army leadership for marijuana use that resulted in a preliminary inquiry for a court martial proceeding against Brown. After conspiring with Brown, Booker admitted that he gained entry to Hawk’s barracks room shortly after midnight on June 17, 2020, where he “slashed and stabbed Hawk repeatedly with a sharp-edged weapon.” A medical examiner later noted that Hawk received 40 separate stab or slash wounds.
Hawk’s body was found in his Fort Stewart barracks room the next day.
“The joint response by the Department of Defense and Department of Justice to this murder exemplifies the phenomenal teamwork between the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, FBI, and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Georgia,” said Rusty Higgason, Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge of the CID Southeast Field Office. “The U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory and the FBI Crime Lab analyzed hundreds of pieces of evidence, and the CID forensic science professionals that responded from various locations to process the site did an amazing job. I would also like to highlight the relentless, behind-the-scenes work by investigative analysts who meticulously reviewed an extraordinary amount of documents, images, video recordings and digital data in this investigation.”
“Brown’s plea is a direct result of the hard work and persistence put in by the FBI Savannah Resident Agency and our partners at the U.S. Army and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia,” said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Hawk’s family and friends will never be rid of the pain this senseless murder has caused them, but hopefully it gives them some sense of resolve to know that justice will be served.”
The Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division and the FBI are investigating the case, which is being prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer G. Solari and Darron J. Hubbard.
U.S. Attorney Estes also commended the work of CID Forensic Science Technicians from Fort Stewart, Fort Bragg, Fort Gordon, and Fort Jackson; the analysts with the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory and the FBI Crime Lab; the Office of the Armed Forces Medical Examiner; the DOJ Cybercrime Lab; Bevel, Gardner & Associates, Inc.; and Peace River K9 Search and Rescue.
Seattle woman who embezzled more than $2.1 million from health club chain sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
Seattle – A 57-year-old Seattle woman who embezzled more than $2.1 million from her long-time employer was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to a year and a day in prison, announced U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. Michele D. Sharar pleaded guilty on April 25, 2022, to wire fraud for the fraudulent fund transfers she made between 2014 and 2017, from the victim’s business bank accounts to her personal bank accounts. The victim in this case asked that Sharar serve no prison time. However, U.S. District Judge John C. Coughenour said a sentence of incarceration was important because of the problem of bookkeepers and accountants stealing from small businesses. “These crimes happen so many times and do so much damage,” Judge Coughenour said.
According to records filed in the case, Sharar worked for Emerald City Athletics and Emerald City Health Properties for more than 25 years, rising to the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO). During a time period when the owner of the company had medical issues, Sharar began stealing money from the company to feed a shopping addiction. Over a period of three years, she stole $2,144,551 by depositing third party checks to her own account, transferring money from company accounts to her own accounts, and writing checks on company accounts and depositing them to her own accounts. Sharar then falsified the company financial reports to hide the fact that she had embezzled the money.
Sharar told her employer about the theft in 2018 and agreed to attempt to pay the money back. Today Judge Coughenour ordered $2,144,551 in restitution, and ordered three years of supervised release to follow prison.
The FBI investigated the case.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Dion.
San Antonio Fraudster Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man was sentenced Wednesday to 44 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for wire fraud.
According to court documents, Sergio Soto Jr., 35, operated two businesses, iPhone Buyerz and Phone Dropz, through which he claimed to sell used cell phones in bulk. While heavily advertising on the internet, Soto did not, in fact, have access to the large amount of cell phones he offered for sale. Soto fraudulently sold phones that he had no ability to deliver to victims including businessmen in the U.S. and in Mexico. The amount of fraud totaled $990,696.00 and Soto agreed to make restitution in this amount as part of his plea. Additionally, Soto was sentenced to pay $400 in special assessments.
“The growing trend towards significant on-line purchases has greatly increased the problem of wire fraud, both in the United States and internationally,” said U.S. Attorney Ashley C. Hoff for the Western District of Texas. “Prosecutions like this are an important part of protecting consumers from deceitful predators.”
“This individual took advantage of unsuspecting victims and lined his pockets at their expense,” said Special Agent in Charge Oliver E. Rich Jr. of the FBI San Antonio Division. “Today’s sentencing sends a strong message that those who engage in these types of fraudulent schemes will be held accountable.”
The FBI, Texas Department of Public Safety and San Antonio Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Greg Surovic and Matthew Kinskey prosecuted the case.
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Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Francelino Mario Alves, 51, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on June 13, 2017, Alves sold a pound of methamphetamine to an undercover officer. On July 12, 2017, Alves sold another pound of methamphetamine to the undercover officer.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney David W. Spencer is prosecuting the case.
Alves is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on March 7, 2023. Alves faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
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 U.S. Department of Justice 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.
Russian Citizen Sentenced to 46 Months for Laundering Proceeds of Internet FraudsRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that TARAS ILYICH BEVZ, a citizen of Russia, was sentenced to 46 months in prison for laundering over a million dollars of proceeds of various internet frauds targeting dozens of U.S. citizens and companies. BEVZ was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Bevz, a Russian citizen, traveled to the United States on a tourist visa to engage in a crime spree that left over 40 people and entities with over a million dollars in losses. From the day he set foot on American soil, he ran companies and bank accounts that laundered proceeds of various sophisticated internet fraud schemes. Bevz’s illegal journey to America to commit crimes comes to an end with a significant prison sentence.”
According to Count Two of the Indictment, to which BEVZ pled guilty, and other statements and submissions made in Court:
On or about November 12, 2019, BEVZ entered the United States from Russia on a B2 tourist visa, which prohibited him from working in the United States. He immediately set to work preparing for the corrupt scheme to launder proceeds of various internet frauds. On the day of his arrival, BEVZ registered a corporation in New York that would be used to launder proceeds and subsequently registered a second corporation. From December 2019 to March 2021, BEVZ opened bank accounts for one or both of these companies at nine different banks, including in Manhattan bank branches.
From November 2019 through at least April 2021, BEVZ laundered the proceeds of at least two internet fraud schemes operated by co-conspirators: a hacking scheme and a vehicle fraud scheme. The hacking scheme compromised multiple companies’ bank accounts and sent proceeds to BEVZ’s accounts, among others. The fraud scheme targeted victims through internet ads for the sale of cars, RVs, motorcycles, and boats. The victims were directed to send money to BEVZ’s accounts, among others; their money was then withdrawn by BEVZ as cash or transferred to Turkey, among other destinations. The purported cars, motorcycles, and boats were never delivered to the victims. BEVZ supervised at least one other individual who similarly opened bank accounts and transacted with proceeds from the vehicle fraud scheme. BEVZ persisted in this scheme even after at least one bank prevented him from transferring money and shut down his account.
At least 42 victims lost money as part of BEVZ and his co-conspirators’ schemes. They include vulnerable victims whose business and personal savings accounts were drained as a result of the fraud and couples who have had to delay retirement. The victims represent a cross-section of society, including first generation Americans, teachers, and small business owners. They include a family who spent $26,500 to purchase an RV to transport an ailing parent cross-country over the holidays that was never delivered.
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In addition to his prison term, BEVZ, 33, was ordered pay $1,044,924 in restitution and forfeit $1,044,924.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations.
The criminal case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Money Laundering and Transnational Criminal Enterprises Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Vladislav Vainberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Providence Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking CocaineRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Providence man who acted as a middleman as he bought and sold cocaine as a member of a drug trafficking conspiracy was sentenced today to nearly four years in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.
Miguel Colon, 36, pleaded guilty on August 24, 2022, to a single charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess cocaine with intent to distribute. An FBI Safe Streets Task Force investigation revealed that on multiple occasions Colon purchased various quantities of cocaine from a supplier, and that he was in the business of reselling the drugs to others. Colon also offered to help his supplier gain access to kilogram quantities of drugs.
On September 16, 2021, members of the FBI Task Force executed a court-authorized search of Colon’s apartment and seized over five grams of cocaine as well items used in the packaging and sale of drugs.
At sentencing today, U.S. District Court Judge Mary S. McElroy sentenced Colon to forty-six months of incarceration to be followed by three years of federal supervised release.
The person from whom Colon allegedly purchased cocaine: William Mendez, 47, is awaiting trial in federal court, charged by way of indictment with conspiracy to distribute and to possess cocaine with intent to distribute; and conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute forty grams or more of fentanyl. A federal indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey Erickson.
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Prineville Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Attempted Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
EUGENE, Ore.—A Prineville, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today after he requested sexually explicit photos from an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a child online and travelled from his home to Bend, Oregon in hopes of having sex with the child.
Patrick James Adams, 36, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison and a life term of supervised release.
According to court documents, on April 25, 2021, Adams sent a Facebook friend request to a person he believed was a 14-year-old girl from Bend. A few days later, Adams initiated contact with the account via Facebook Messenger and began chatting with undercover law enforcement officers. At the outset of and at multiple times during these conversations, the law enforcement officers told Adams he was chatting with a 14-year-old child. Over the next week, Adams requested nude images and videos from the purported child more than a dozen times. Adams also sent several images and an explicit video, which were used to confirm his identity. Throughout the conversation, he repeatedly reminded the fictitious minor not to tell anyone about the exchange.
On May 7, 2021, Adams traveled from Prineville to Bend in hopes of having sex with the child. Upon his arrival, Adams notified the fictitious minor victim that he would wait at a designated meeting area, a local public library, until she finished school. Investigators arrested Adams while he was waiting for the child.
On May 20, 2021, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a three-count indictment charging Adams with attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct, attempting to coerce and entice a minor, and committing a felony offense involving a minor as a registered sex offender.
On July 26, 2022, Adams pleaded guilty to attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct.
This case was investigated by the Bend Police Department, Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Crook County Parole and Probation. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org.
Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.
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. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Placerville Man Indicted on Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment today against Richard Turner, 60, of Placerville, charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, agents executed a federal search warrant at Turner’s residence in Placerville. During the authorized search, agents located over 40 pounds of methamphetamine. Agents also located six firearms, including one previously reported as stolen. Turner is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has five prior felony convictions, including a conviction for vehicle theft and drug trafficking offenses.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alstyn Bennett is prosecuting the case.
If convicted of the methamphetamine trafficking offenses, Turner faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, up to a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, and a $10 million fine. If convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, Turner faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice 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.
Pennsylvania Man Charged with Sexual Exploitation of Child and Attempted Enticement of MinorRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Pennsylvania man was arrested for sexually exploiting and attempting to entice a minor victim, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Diego Ramos, 19, of Blakeslee, Pennsylvania, is charged by complaint with one count of sexual exploitation of a child and one count of attempted enticement of a minor. He appeared on Nov. 30, 2022, before U.S. Magistrate Judge André M. Espinosa in Newark federal court and was detained.
According to documents filed in this case:
From May 29, 2021 through Nov. 29, 2022, Ramos used multiple Instagram accounts and other social media and messaging platforms to successfully coerce a minor to send sexually explicit images and videos to Ramos. He threatened the victim with public exposure if the victim did not send additional sexually explicit images and videos requested by Ramos, and caused the victim to pay Ramos $12,982 to stop him from publicly releasing the images.
The count of sexual exploitation of a child carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison; the count of attempted enticement of a minor carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. Both counts are punishable by a maximum of life in prison.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI the Newark Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task force, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, with the investigation leading to today’s charges. He also thanked the FBI-Philadelphia, the Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory, the Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, Police Department, and the Perth Amboy, New Jersey, Police Department for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny Chung of the OCDETF/Narcotics Unit in Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Owner of Johnson Sausage Shop Sentenced to 1 Year for Not Paying Tax Withholdings to IRSRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced today that Christa Johnson, 57, Cambria, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty and was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Madison, Wisconsin by U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson. Judge Peterson ordered Johnson to serve one year in prison and pay a $25,000 fine. She was also ordered to pay $326,905 in restitution to the IRS, which she paid immediately.
On June 16, 2022, a federal grand jury sitting in Madison, Wisconsin returned a 17-count indictment against Johnson, charging her with seven counts of withholding income taxes and payroll taxes from her employees and not paying the taxes over to the IRS, nine counts of not paying the employer's share of employment taxes, and one count of obstruction of IRS collection efforts.
Johnson owned Johnson Sausage Shoppe, Inc. (JSS) which operated as a meat processing plant, grocery store, and catering business in Rio, Wisconsin since 1996. As President of JSS, Johnson was responsible for all aspects of JSS's business operations, including accounting, finance, banking, payroll, hiring and firing of employees, paying bills, paying taxes, and filing Forms 1120-S, 941, and 940 with the IRS.
The indictment alleged that Johnson failed to timely file quarterly employment tax returns (Form 941) for JSS, and pay the employment taxes, starting with the first quarter of 2013 through the fourth quarter of 2016. During that time span, JSS paid $1,496,524.69 in wages and withheld from those wages FICA taxes and the employee's income taxes, which totaled $211,337.32, none of which was paid over to the IRS. Johnson also failed to pay to the IRS the employer's matching share of FICA taxes, which totaled $111,137.86, and federal unemployment taxes which totaled $4,430.54, for the same time period. In total, JSS owed $326,905 in unpaid taxes to the IRS.
At today's hearing, Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of not paying over the employee tax withholdings for the third quarter of 2016, but agreed the total tax loss of the scheme amounted to $326,905.
In imposing the one-year prison term, Judge Peterson told Johnson that her conduct was serious, not only in terms of a large tax amount due, but also because the crime took place over a long period of time and she engaged in a pattern of defiance with the IRS for a long time frame. Judge Peterson noted that numerous individuals gave Johnson repeated warnings that she was in violation of the law, but Johnson ignored these warnings, and chose to defy her tax obligations from 2013 through 2016. As a result, Judge Peterson stated that a prison term was necessary to punish her and provide specific deterrence so that she would not repeat this conduct. Judge Peterson also noted that a prison term was necessary to provide a general deterrence message to other employers so that they know if they withhold income taxes and employment taxes from their employee's wages and do not pay it over to the IRS, they will be held accountable, and will go to prison.
The charges against Johnson were the result of an investigation conducted by IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Graber prosecuted this case.
Oregon Woman Sentenced to Federal Probation After Stealing and Crashing Vehicle Belonging to TribeRead the Press Release
EUGENE, Ore.—A former employee of the Burns Paiute Tribe was sentenced to federal probation today after she stole and crashed a vehicle owned by the Tribe used to transport students to and from school events.
Sara Janeese Hawley, 37, a resident of Burns, Oregon, was sentenced to three years’ federal probation. Hawley was also ordered to pay restitution to the Burns Paiute Tribe.
According to court documents, Hawley used an employee access code to enter the Burns Paiute Tribe’s Tribal Housing Department building where she took the keys to and stole a Dodge Caravan minivan owned by the Tribe. Hawley, who had earlier used methamphetamine and inhalants, drove away in and later crashed and totaled the vehicle.
On April 21, 2022, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Hawley with embezzlement and theft from an Indian Tribal Organization. On August 23, 2022, she pleaded guilty to the single charge.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the FBI. It was prosecuted by Jeffrey S. Sweet, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
On World AIDS Day, Justice Department Highlights Efforts to Protect Civil Rights of People Living with HIV and AIDSRead the Press Release
On World AIDS Day 2022, the Justice Department reaffirms its commitment to protecting the rights of people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Since passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) more than 30 years ago, the department has worked vigorously to protect and advance the rights of the more than one million Americans living with HIV and AIDS.
“The Department of Justice vigorously safeguards the rights of all Americans, including people living with HIV and AIDS,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “On World AIDS Day, we reaffirm our commitment to using civil rights laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, to address the unlawful treatment of people living with HIV and AIDS and stem the spread of stereotypes and misinformation about the disease.”
Over the past year, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division has prioritized the enforcement of the ADA to seek equal opportunity for and combat discrimination against people living with HIV and AIDS.
- In October, the department issued a letter finding that a Pennsylvania county correctional facility violated the ADA by preventing an inmate from working in the facility’s kitchen because he has HIV. This exclusion deprived the inmate of benefits including monetary compensation, special housing, extra privileges and eligibility for sentence reduction.
- In September, the department entered a consent decree resolving a lawsuit against the Town of Clarksville, Indiana. The lawsuit alleged that the Town’s police department prevented a qualified applicant from becoming a police officer based on his HIV diagnosis. The agreement requires Clarksville to pay monetary damages to the complainant, revise its policies and train its personnel.
- In September, the department secured a settlement agreement with an in-home caregiving agency to resolve allegations that the company refused to provide in-home services to an individual with HIV. The agreement requires the agency to pay monetary damages to the individual, adopt a non-discrimination policy and train its staff.
- In June and July, the department secured settlement agreements with two tattoo studios to resolve complaints that clients were refused services after informing the studios of their HIV-positive status. The agreements require the tattoo studios to pay monetary damages to the complainants, develop a non-discrimination policy, and train their employees.
- In February, the department entered consent decrees resolving two cases alleging that doctors in California refused to provide routine medical care to a patient on the basis of her HIV status. One lawsuit alleged that when the patient tried to make an appointment, she was told that the doctor could not see her because she had HIV, and the second lawsuit alleged that another doctor denied the patient a Pap smear, a regular preventative procedure, because he deemed her a “high risk” patient. The consent decrees require each doctor to pay monetary damages to the complainant and a civil penalty to the United States, to receive training on the ADA and the care of patients with HIV, and to implement a non-discrimination policy.
In addition to its enforcement efforts, the department continues to engage in outreach to educate people living with HIV and AIDS, businesses, state and local governments, and other covered entities on their rights and responsibilities under the ADA. The department also provides technical assistance and responds to questions from individuals and covered entities through our ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (voice) or 833-610-1264 (TTY).
To learn more about the Civil Rights Division’s work, please visit Civil Rights Division | Department of Justice and archive.ADA.gov/HIV Home Page.
Omaha Man Sentenced to more than Seven Years’ Imprisonment for Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Abraham Jose Alvarenga, 28, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Alvarenga to 94 months’ imprisonment. After completing his term of imprisonment, Alvarenga will be required to serve a 5-year term of supervised release as there is no parole in the federal system.
On September 14, 2020, a DEA agent working in an undercover capacity coordinated a purchase of approximately 396 grams of methamphetamine at a South Omaha gas station. At the meet location, the undercover agent was approached by Alvarenga and a co-defendant, German Reyes Jr. Alvarenga got into the undercover agent’s car and sold the agent the methamphetamine while Reyes walked into the gas station.
On November 9, 2020, another co-defendant, Andres Cruz, sold the undercover agent an additional 295 grams of methamphetamine and was arrested on November 16, 2020, when he was found in possession of another 896 grams of methamphetamine. The investigation revealed that both Cruz and Alvarenga were distributing the methamphetamine on behalf of Reyes.
Cruz was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment on January 14, 2022. Reyes was sentenced to 188 months’ imprisonment on September 22, 2022.
This case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.
Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison in Connection with Destructive Devices Found on Tug BoatsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Nathaniel Blayn Becker, 43, of Marietta, Ohio was sentenced today to eight years and one month in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, in connection with pipe bombs found on tugboats on the Ohio River.
On April 19, 2022, a federal jury found Becker guilty of two counts of possession of an unregistered destructive device and two counts of placement of a destructive device on a vessel. According to court records and evidence presented at trial, law enforcement officers recovered the destructive devices from two different tugboats moving barges on the Ohio River on October 21 and October 25, 2021. Becker appeared on security video purchasing pipes and other relevant components of the devices from a Lowe’s store in Marietta on four separate occasions and close in time to when the devices were found. Around the time of the first incident, exterior security video from Lowe’s and the Walmart in Marietta showed Becker carrying pipe bomb components toward an Ohio River bridge. Investigators believe the destructive devices were dropped from the bridge.
Similar devices were discovered on a third tugboat moving barges on the Ohio River on October 26, 2021. However, those devices were found to contain non-explosive septic tank cleaner and therefore Becker was not charged.
Becker was on probation at the time of the offenses, following his conviction for failure to comply with an order or signal of a police officer in the Washington County, Ohio, Court of Common Pleas on August 28, 2020. Becker had brandished a knife at an officer during a traffic stop on February 3, 2020, and then led police on a car chase before barricading himself in his residence. Becker was arrested after a standoff with law enforcement.
“This was a very concerning case to me because not only did it put the workers of the tugboats at risk, it also put the general public at risk because these pipe bombs were dropped from a major interstate bridge,” said United States Attorney Will Thompson. “This case was also very perplexing to me because even as of today, we have yet to find a motive of what made Mr. Becker want to do this. That’s concerning to me now and also concerning to me when Mr. Becker is eventually released.”
Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the assistance provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the West Virginia State Police, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Parkersburg Police Department, the Wood County Sheriff’s Department and the Washington County, Ohio, Sheriff’s Office.
"Nathaniel Becker showed complete disregard for public safety. His actions could have resulted in death or serious injury to citizens, as well as first responders who rendered those devices safe," said ATF Special Agent in Charge Shawn Morrow. "This case demonstrates ATF's commitment to reducing violent crime involving the criminal misuse of explosives and it highlights strong interagency cooperation across multiple jurisdictions. I commend the ATF Charleston Office, the United States Attorney's Office, and our law enforcement partners for working together to hold Becker accountable."
Thompson also commended Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks and former Assistant United States Attorney Nick Miller for prosecuting the case and securing guilty verdicts on all four counts against the defendant.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-234.
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New York Man Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Conspiring to Traffic in Stolen Goods Worth More Than $1 MillionRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Staten Island, New York, man who conspired with others to traffic in stolen goods and merchandise was sentenced today to 36 months in prison, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Razel Romhein, 49, of Staten Island, New York, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Kevin McNulty in Newark federal court to an information charging him with conspiracy to transport stolen goods. Judge McNulty imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From 2011 through May 2013, Romhein and others engaged in a conspiracy to traffic in stolen health and beauty aid products and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. These products were stolen by “boosters” from various places, including retail stores located in New Jersey, and then sold through a series of distributors at a significantly discounted price.
Romhein operated a warehouse facility in Staten Island, New York that functioned as a “cleaning station” for the stolen products. He arranged for the delivery of stolen merchandise and he and others removed security packaging and other labels from the products that identified the retail stores from which the products were stolen. The products, with an aggregate value of at least approximately $1 million, were then sold for a profit.
In addition to the prison term, Judge McNulty sentenced Romhein to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, New York Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ivan J. Arvelo; inspectors of U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Newark, under the direction of Acting Inspector in Charge Raimundo Marrero, Philadelphia Division; special agents of the Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty; and special agents of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Bethanne M. Dinkins, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony P. Torntore, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Cybercrime Unit.
New York Diagnostic Testing Facility Owners Sentenced for Health Care Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Two New York diagnostic testing facility owners were sentenced today to three years in prison for their roles in a more than $18 million health care fraud scheme.
According to court documents, Tea Kaganovich, 50, and Ramazi Mitaishvili, 62, both of Brooklyn, are a married couple that co-owned several diagnostic testing facilities in Brooklyn. The couple paid over $18 million in kickbacks for the referral of beneficiaries who submitted themselves to diagnostic testing and other purported medical services. Kaganovich and Mitaishvili also falsely reported to the IRS that the illegal kickback payments were legitimate business expenses and therefore submitted tax forms that under-reported business income and claimed deductions to which they were not entitled.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York; Acting Special Agent in Charge Susan Frisco of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Office of Investigations; Assistant Director in Charge Michael J. Driscoll of the FBI New York Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) New York Field Office made the announcement.
The HHS-OIG, FBI, and IRS-CI investigated the case.
Assistant Chief Debra Jaroslawicz and Trial Attorney Sarah Wilson Rocha of the Justice Department’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanisha Payne handled forfeiture matters.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, comprised of 15 strike forces operating in 24 federal districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who collectively have billed the Medicare program for more than $19 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOHNNY WALSH, age 25, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty yesterday to violating the Federal Gun Control Act before United States Senior District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
WALSH pleaded guilty to two different counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, one from March 2022 and the other from August 2022. On the March 2022 charge, WALSH faces up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, plus a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. On the August 2022 charge, WALSH faces up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, plus a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the New Orleans Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that yesterday, SEAN ESPRIT, age 27, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty before United States Senior District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle to violations of the Controlled Substances Act and the Gun Control Act.
According to court records, ESPRIT admitted to jointly possessing with the intent to distribute over a kilogram of heroin, over 400 grams of fentanyl, and a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), 841(b)(1)(C), 846. ESPRIT also admitted to jointly possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii).
Sentencing is set for March 8, 2023. On the drug offense, Esprit faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release. On the firearms charge, Esprit faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 5 years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
New Castle County Man Sentenced to Almost 8 Years in Federal Prison for Selling FentanylRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss announced that Michael Younger, 45, a New Castle County man, was sentenced yesterday to 94 months in prison for distributing fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews pronounced sentence. The government argued at sentencing that Younger continued selling deadly fentanyl despite knowing that the drugs he sold were causing overdose deaths.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Younger is a career offender, with two prior convictions for serious drug offenses. The Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) began investigating Younger in early January 2021, after receiving information suggesting that Younger supplied fentanyl that caused the overdose death of a person. While under investigation, Younger sold additional fentanyl to a government cooperator on February 4, 2021. During that transaction, Younger told the cooperator that a second customer had died of an overdose after ingesting Younger’s drugs. As a result, Younger changed the stamp he used to brand his fentanyl because Younger thought that law enforcement could trace that stamp to him. The government’s investigation revealed that Younger’s other customer had indeed died of drug overdose in late January 2021.
The drugs Younger sold contained not only fentanyl but also xylazine, a horse tranquilizer. Recently, xylazine has been commonly used as an additive included within fentanyl baggies.
U.S. Attorney Weiss commented on the sentencing, “Investigating and prosecuting those who knowingly sell drugs that kill continues to be a top priority for my office and our law enforcement partners. As overdoses continue to ravage our community, those who profit from illegal fentanyl sales can and will face justice. And if customers die from your drugs, you are facing the prospect of decades in prison.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer K. Welsh prosecuted the case. The case was investigated by the DEA and the New Castle County Police Department.
The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to helping those who suffer from substance abuse. If you need help, drug treatment information is available any time through the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Treatment Referral Routing Service, found online at dpt2.samhsa.gov/treatment/ or by dialing 1.888.545.2600.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:22-cr-00004.
Montour County Man Sentenced to 210 Months’ Imprisonment for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on November 29, 2022, James Edward King, III, age 45, of Danville, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Matthew W. Brann, to 210 months’ imprisonment for methamphetamine trafficking.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, King was convicted on July 21, 2022, of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams and more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. The investigation began based on information that King and his codefendant, Christopher Lee Brown, age 42, of Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania, were having a large quantity of methamphetamine delivered through UPS to Union County, Pennsylvania, for distribution. The Pennsylvania State Police intercepted the shipment and arrested both King and Brown.
On June 16, 2022, Brown pleaded guilty, to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams and more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine. Brown is awaiting sentencing.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jaime Keating and Alisan Martin are prosecuting the case.
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Minneapolis Felon Charged with Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has been charged in a federal criminal complaint for illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on November 28, 2022, Minneapolis Police officers responded to a call that a person at 19 Bar, located near downtown Minneapolis, had pulled out a gun after being asked to leave. When officers arrived, several people pointed at a man, who was later identified as Conell Walter Harris, 29. Harris resisted arrest and tried to reach into the pocket of his hooded sweatshirt. Officers recovered a stolen .45 caliber Glock model 30 pistol from Harris’ pocket. Officers spoke to bar employees and customers and learned that Harris had become upset after an employee asked to see his identification, which Harris refused to show. The employee then asked Harris to leave the bar. Harris became combative and pulled out a pistol. An employee attempted to deescalate the situation but Harris became more aggressive and made multiple threatening statements. Harris then left for a short time but returned to the bar before law enforcement arrived.
Harris is charged in a criminal complaint with felon in possession of a firearm. He made his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung. Harris was ordered to remain in custody pending a formal detention hearing scheduled for December 5, 2022.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Samantha H. Bates is prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Miami Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Home Invasion and ShootingRead the Press Release
MIAMI — Frankie David Vargas II of Miami has been sentenced to 27 years in prison and three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Darrin P. Gayles for a two-day crime spree that involved carjacking, robbery, and a firearm.
According to court records, on August 17, 2021, Vargas drove a stolen car to a gym parking lot where he broke into nine cars and stole money, jewelry, and a handgun. Around 3:30 a.m. the next day he robbed a gas station attendant at gunpoint and stole cash from the register and the attendant’s phone.
Vargas ditched the car on the street a few hours later and walked to an apartment complex where he broke into one of the apartments through the downstairs window. He robbed the woman who was living there at gunpoint and shot her teenage son when he tried to help his mother. The bullet penetrated the shoulder and hit his lungs. Vargas then stole the keys to the son’s car, crashed it into another car, and sped off. Law enforcement tracked Vargas through the phone he had stolen from the gas station attendant and found him at another residence where he was arrested.
Juan Antonio Gonzalez, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and acting Special Agent in Charge Robert M. Dewitt, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement.
FBI, Miami Field Office, investigated the case with assistance from the City of Miami Police Department, the North Miami Police Department, and the Miami-Dade Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Bailyn prosecuted the case.
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 at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Mexican Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Immigration CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Gerardo Tomas-Avila, 32, a Mexican national, pleaded guilty today to reentry of a removed alien and was remanded to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for deportation proceedings.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 19, 2022, ICE agents arrested Tomas-Avila in Elkview, Kanawha County, after identifying him in the course of an investigation. Tomas-Avila admitted that he was a citizen of Mexico in the United States illegally and that he had previously been deported from the United States. Tomas-Avila had no identification documents permitting him legal status in the United States.
Fingerprints matched Tomas-Avila to a prior administrative removal from the United States, which followed his arrest in Taylor County, Kentucky, on April 7, 2012. Tomas-Avila was deported to Mexico on June 8, 2012, following his conviction for driving under the influence in Taylor County, Kentucky, on April 23, 2012. Tomas-Avila never obtained the express consent of the Secretary of U.S. Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States, nor did he seek to reenter through other legal means.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing, sentencing Tomas-Avila to the time he has served in custody since his August 19, 2022 arrest before remanding Tomas-Avila to ICE custody. Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-171.
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Massachusetts Man Suspected in Multiple Bank Robberies in New England ArrestedRead the Press Release
TAYLOR DZICZEK, 40, of Chicopee, Massachusetts, was arrested today on federal criminal complaint charging him with robbing a Connecticut bank earlier this year. As alleged in the complaint, Dziczek is also a suspect is several additional bank robberies that have occurred in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire since September 2021.
Today’s announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery, Special Agent in Charge David Sundberg of the FBI’s New Haven Division, Special Agent in Charge Joseph R. Bonavolonta of the FBI’s Boston Division, and Special Agent in Charge Janeen DiGuiseppi of the FBI’s Albany Division.
Dziczek appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford and was ordered detained.
As alleged in the complaint, the FBI and state and local law enforcement have been investigating 14 robberies and one attempted robbery of banks and credit unions in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont and New Hampshire, which were committed by what appears to be the same individual, that occurred between September 2021 and August 2022. During the investigation, Dziczek was identified as a suspect who robbed the Peoples United Bank, located at 117 East Street in Plainville, Connecticut, on May 26, 2022. On that date, Dziczek entered the bank, approached the teller counter and gave the teller a note stating words to the effect of, “I have a gun. Don‘t call 911. Don‘t set off any alarms.“ When the teller stated she did not have any more money, Dziczek pulled what appeared to be a black firearm from the front pocket of his sweatshirt and made additional statements including “Give me all the money,” “I have a gun,” and “Don‘t be a hero.”
It is alleged that Dziczek removed some of the paper money wrappers from the money he received from the teller and discarded them at the bank before he fled the scene. Plainville Police detectives collected the discarded money wrappers as evidence.
It is further alleged that on October 21, 2022, FBI special agents surveilled Dziczek while he was in the MGM Casino in Springfield, Massachusetts, and retrieved a Red Bull energy drink can with a black straw from which Dziczek was observed drinking. Laboratory analysis connected DNA found on the black straw to DNA found on discarded money wrappers from the Plainville bank robbery.
The charge of bank robbery carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that a criminal complaint is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the FBI New Haven Division’s Violent Crimes Task Force, FBI Boston Division, FBI Albany Division, Connecticut State Police, Massachusetts State Police, Athol (Mass.) Police Department, Avon (Conn.) Police Department, Brattleboro (Vt.) Police Department, Chicopee (Mass.) Police Department, East Windsor (Conn.) Police Department, Enfield (Conn.) Police Department, Greenfield (Mass.) Police Department, Keene (N.H.) Police Department, Meriden (Conn.) Police Department, Montague (Mass.) Police Department, Nashua (N.H.) Police Department, Plainville (Conn.) Police Department, Somers (Conn.) Police Department, and Springfield (Mass.) Police Department. The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Division of Scientific Services has provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel E. Cummings, Stephanie T. Levick and Nancy V. Gifford. U.S. Attorney Avery thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Districts of Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire for its close cooperation in investigating and prosecuting this matter.
Martinsburg woman sentenced for cocaine chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jennifer Hardy, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 57 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Hardy, 32, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Hardy admitting to working with another to sell cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in February 2021 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Marion County Convicted Felon Enters Plea for Illegally Possessing A Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Justin Heath Griffin (35, Ocklawaha) has entered a guilty plea to an indictment charging him with one count of possessing a firearm and ammunition affecting interstate commerce by a convicted felon. This charge is punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison. Griffin was indicted on July 19, 2022. He will be sentenced on March 9, 2023, before Senior United States District Judge Gregory A. Presnell.
According to court records, on March 3, 2022, officers from the City of Ocala Police Department arrested Griffin for driving without a valid driver's license. Following the arrest, the officers discovered that Griffin possessed a loaded firearm, ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and methamphetamine. Griffin has eight prior state felony convictions, including possession of a firearm by a violent offender (2006) and armed robbery (2007). As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Ocala Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.
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.
Man charged in San Felipe shootingRead 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 that Jeremiah Tenorio has been charged in connection with a shooting on the San Felipe Pueblo. Tenorio, 26, and an enrolled member of the San Felipe Pueblo, appeared in federal court on Nov. 28 for a detention hearing, facing charges of assault with a dangerous weapon, assault resulting in serious bodily injury, and discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. Tenorio will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to a criminal complaint, on Nov. 2, Tenorio and others allegedly arrived at the residence of the victim, identified as John Doe, in response to an altercation earlier that day. The group allegedly mistook John Doe for one of the people involved in the altercation. Tenorio allegedly shot John Doe twice before the group fled.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Tenorio faces up to 10 years in prison for assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury, and a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison for discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence.
The FBI investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant United States Attorney Mark Pfizenmayer is prosecuting the case.
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Madison Felon Sentenced to 4 Years for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Kishaun Brooks, 21, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to four years in federal prison for possessing a handgun as a felon. This prison term will be followed by three years of supervised release.
Brooks possessed a Glock semiautomatic handgun between March 18, 2022 and April 1, 2022. During this period, Brooks was a felon on probation after having been convicted and sentenced in Dane County for three separate felony burglary convictions, three separate felony car theft convictions, and three separate felony convictions for vehicle flee/elude an officer.
In imposing the four-year sentence, Judge Peterson reflected on Brook’s criminal history and the threat he posed to public safety. In addressing Brooks, Judge Peterson indicated that he had been a “menace to the community” but that the four-year sentence would deter Brooks from endangering the public, and, with three years of federal supervision, gave Brooks an opportunity to turn his life around.
The charge against Brooks was the result of an investigation conducted by the Fitchburg Police Department, the Madison Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea prosecuted this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Los Angeles Man Found Guilty of Stealing More Than $150,000 and Attempting to Steal Nearly $1.9 Million More in COVID Business LoansRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A downtown Los Angeles man was found guilty today by a jury of federal criminal charges for fraudulently obtaining more than $150,000 – and attempted to obtain an additional $1.85 million – in COVID-relief loans for several companies he claimed to own and operate.
Sean Schoepflin, 43, a.k.a. “Sean Fitzgerald,” was found guilty of two counts of wire fraud and two counts of money laundering.
According to evidence presented at his three-day trial, from April 2020 to October 2021, Schoepflin made numerous false statements to the United States Small Business Administration to secure more than $150,000 – and attempting to secure an additional $1.85 million – in Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) for his business.
In applying for the EIDL loans, Schoepflin falsely stated that the business entity he created had several employees and more than half a million dollars in revenue, and that he would use the EIDLs for working capital for the business. Schoepflin also falsely stated on loan application that he had never been convicted of a felony.
In fact, his purported business, Capital Adventures Inc., had no employees and little to no revenue. Schoepflin used the EIDLs largely for personal expenses, and he had previously been convicted of multiple felonies.
For example, Schoepflin falsely stated in the loan application that Capital Adventures had revenues of $560,000 in a one-year period just before the pandemic. When an SBA employee sent an email to Schoepflin requesting Capital Adventures’ business tax return to show proof of the company’s existence as a business entity, Schoepflin sent an unsigned tax form that stated that Capital Adventures had gross sales or receipts of $625,112 in 2019.
In fact, Capital Adventures did not file the required IRS form for 2019 until July 2021, after it requested and was denied an increase for its EIDL. Furthermore, between February 2018 and April 2020, Capital Adventures’ bank accounts had total deposits of approximately $35,000.
United States District Judge Fernando M. Olguin scheduled a July 27 sentencing hearing, at which time Schoepflin will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each wire fraud count and up to 10 years in federal prison for each money laundering count.
Schoepflin’s wife, Erika Leon, 45, a.k.a. “Erika Fitzgerald,” also of downtown Los Angeles, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of wire fraud in this case. Her trial is scheduled for February 21, 2023.
Schoepflin also is scheduled to go to trial on May 16, 2023 on an indictment charging him with one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. Schoepflin allegedly possessed nine firearms and more than 2,000 rounds of ammunition despite felony convictions dating back to the late 1990s in Florida state court, including witness tampering, cocaine possession and burglary.
The FBI and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration investigated this matter. The Small Business Administration’s Office of Inspector General provided substantial assistance with the investigation.
Assistant United States Attorneys Solomon Kim of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section and Ali Moghaddas of the Major Frauds Section are prosecuting this case.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Local Firm and Owners Plead Guilty to Fraud and Illegal Sale of PesticidesRead the Press Release
For Further Information, Contact:
Assistant U. S. Attorney Melanie K. Pierson (619) 546-7976SAN DIEGO – Integral Hygienic Solutions, Inc, dba TruClean, a La Mesa-based sanitation company, pleaded guilty in federal court today to defrauding customers by falsely claiming that its antimicrobial cleaning product was tested and approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The company had claimed that its antimicrobial product, TruClean 365, eliminates bacteria and viruses, including Covid-19, on treated surfaces for one year with a single application. The company also claimed that its product had been submitted to the antimicrobials division at the EPA for testing and that the EPA had validated their claim of one year of effectiveness through “rigorous testing.”
At the beginning of the pandemic in early 2020, the defendants put TruClean’s own labels on bottles of chemical products purchased from a chemical company on the East Coast. Ray Louis Smith Jr., Ramont Joseph Smith, and TruClean then marketed, sold, and distributed the newly re-labeled products as providing year-long protection against infection from viruses, including the virus that causes Covid-19, on its social media pages and its website.
Products represented to kill viruses in the environment are regulated by the EPA as pesticides. None of the products sold under the TruClean name was registered as a pesticide by the EPA, as required by law. Pesticides that are unregistered may not be sold or distributed in the United States. In pleading guilty, the company admitted that it sold over $800,000 worth of the unregistered pesticides.
"The defendants tried to gain commercial advantage during the pandemic by falsely claiming that the federal government had tested and validated their product,” said U.S. Attorney Randy S. Grossman. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to investigating and prosecuting criminal cases to assist in protecting the public from frauds such as this.” Grossman thanked the prosecution team and investigating agencies for their excellent work on this case.
“The defendants in this case knowingly persisted in their false assertions that their pesticide application provided protection against COVID-19,” said Special Agent in Charge Scot Adair of EPA’s criminal program in California. “As this case demonstrates, EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to holding responsible parties accountable for false claims that put entire communities at risk.”
“This case demonstrates the EPA Office of Inspector General’s commitment to investigate crimes that undermine the integrity of EPA programs and defraud consumers,” said Special Agent in Charge Garrett J. Westfall of the U.S. EPA OIG. “Our investigative team and law enforcement partners held the subjects accountable by quickly uncovering the potential harm to health and safety and by exposing the false claims promoted by TruClean 365.”
“Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) along with our government partners are committed to protecting the American public against criminal networks attempting to illegally sell products that could endanger lives of U.S. consumers for financial gain,” said HSI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz. “We remain vigilant and will use our broad legal authorities to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks seeking to exploit and benefit from the COVID-19 pandemic.”
This case was prosecuted jointly by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California, and the U.S. Department of Justice, Environmental Crimes Section.
Sentencing is set for Feb 24, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Todd Robinson.
DEFENDANTS Case Number 22cr2607-TWR Integral Hygienic Solutions, Inc. Incorporated: 2020 Sheridan, WY Ray Louis Smith, Jr. San Diego, California Ramont Joseph Smith San Diego, CaliforniaSUMMARY OF CHARGES
Count 1 (Integral Hygienic Solutions, Inc. only)
Wire Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1343
Maximum penalty: Five years of probation for a corporation and/or a fine of $500,000, or twice the unlawful gain or lossCount 2 (all defendants)
Unlawful Sale/Distribution of Pesticides – Title 7, U.S C., Sections 136j and 136l
Maximum penalty: One year in custody and/or a fine of $100,000AGENCIES
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division and Office of Inspector General; Homeland Security Investigations; California Department of Toxic Substances Control
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.
Lenexa Man, Woman Indicted for $2.9 Million Medicare Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Lenexa, Kansas, man and woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a $2.9 million conspiracy to defraud Medicare.
Timothy A. Chin, 64, and Lauren M. Sword, 36, were charged in a 23-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Tuesday, Nov. 29.
Chin and Sword jointly owned and operated Senior Community Care LLC a/k/a Momentum Med Services, LLC. Sword, a chiropractor and owner of Adjust to Health, was enrolled as a Medicare provider.
The federal indictment alleges that Chin and Sword participated in a conspiracy to pay bribes and receive kickbacks for the referral of Medicare beneficiary information that was used to submit $2,927,706 in claims to Medicare from February 2019 through September 2019. Medicare actually paid out approximately $861,399 to two laboratories that submitted those claims.
In addition to the conspiracy, Chin and Sword are charged with 22 counts of wire fraud.
Through Senior Community Care, the indictment says, Chin and Sword marketed genetic tests to Medicare beneficiaries. They also hired or contracted with marketers, sales representatives, and patient recruiters to target Medicare beneficiaries at senior residential communities and other locations, and to induce those Medicare beneficiaries to agree to genetic testing regardless of medical necessity.
Genetic testing is used to indicate whether there is a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer, or to assess how the body’s genetic makeup would affect its response to certain medications. To conduct genetic testing, a laboratory needed to obtain a DNA specimen from the patient. Specimens were typically obtained from the patient’s saliva by using a cheek swab to collect cells.
Marketers collected Medicare personal identifying information from Medicare beneficiaries, along with the swabs. Health care providers, such as doctors, then signed orders for genetic tests that were, in turn, used to bill Medicare for those tests.
Operating through Senior Community Care, the indictment says, Chin and Sword were marketers and patient recruiters for MBM Solutions, a Florida company involved in marketing genetic tests to Medicare beneficiaries. Chin and Sword allegedly received kickbacks and bribes from MBM in exchange for the referral of Medicare beneficiaries for genetic tests and doctors’ orders for those tests.
MBM Solutions purportedly received kickbacks and bribes from Momentum Sales & Marketing, a company operating out of New Jersey and Florida that marketed genetic tests to Medicare beneficiaries.
Senior Community Care was one of other marketing sub-groups that operated in a payment structure that included MBM and Momentum Sales & Marketing, whose owners are being prosecuted in other districts. Because Chin and Sword were involved in this multi-level scheme to defraud Medicare, the indictment says, they were paid kickbacks and bribes by MBM. Chin and Sword allegedly paid kickbacks and bribes to their Senior Community Care marketers in exchange for the referral of Medicare beneficiaries for genetic tests.
Chin and Sword caused two laboratories to bill and be paid by Medicare. Those laboratories billed Medicare approximately $2,927,706, and Medicare paid them approximately $861,399 for specimens from 163 Medicare beneficiaries.
Between April 15 and Aug. 30, 2019, MBM paid Chin and Sword approximately $95,348 by making 14 electronic deposits into their account. These payments allegedly were made in exchange for the referral of Medicare beneficiaries for genetic testing and, as such, were illegal kickbacks.
Between June 19 and Sept. 4, 2019, Chin and Sword allegedly withdrew a total of $34,458 from their bank account and used those funds to compensate Senior Community Care marketers for genetic testing referrals and, as such, those payments were illegal kickbacks.
The federal indictment also contains a forfeiture count, which would require Chin and Sword to forfeit to the government any property derived from the proceeds of the alleged wire fraud, including a money judgment in the amount of $95,348.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cindi Woolery. It was investigated by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General.
Leader of International Drug Trafficking Organization Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Jose Gonzalez-Valencia, aka Chepa, pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia today to international cocaine trafficking.
In December 2017, Brazilian authorities arrested Gonzalez-Valencia, 47, at the request of the United States. He was extradited from Brazil to the United States in November 2021.
According to court documents, between 2006 and October 2016, Gonzalez-Valencia was a leader of the Los Cuinis, an international drug trafficking organization (DTO) responsible for importing large quantities of cocaine from Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala, and elsewhere into the United States.
As noted in court documents, Los Cuinis is closely aligned with the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG), which is based in the State of Jalisco in Mexico. Together, Los Cuinis and CJNG form one of the largest, most dangerous, and prolific drug cartels in Mexico. They are responsible for trafficking significant quantities of illegal drugs into the United States and employing extreme violence to further that objective. Gonzalez-Valencia is the brother of Los Cuinis leaders Abigael Gonzalez-Valencia and Gerardo Gonzalez-Valencia, and the brother-in-law of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, aka Mencho, the leader of CJNG.
“Gonzalez Valencia worked with Los Cuinis and the CJNG to bring thousands of kilos of drugs into the United States,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This case sends a clear message that the Criminal Division is committed to protecting our communities, dismantling the drug trafficking organizations that prey on them for profit, and holding traffickers like Gonzalez Valencia accountable.”
“CJNG is responsible for vast quantities of deadly illegal drugs that are being distributed across the United States,” said Administrator Anne Milgram of the DEA. “Today’s guilty plea reflects the men and women of the DEA’s unwavering commitment to hold all drug traffickers accountable that seek to profit from CJNG’s violent and deadly drug trafficking network.”
Gonzalez-Valencia pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, knowing and intending that it would be imported into the United States. He is scheduled to be sentenced on April 7, 2023 and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a statutory maximum sentence of life imprisonment. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is supported by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).
The DEA Los Angeles Field Division is investigating the case.
Acting Assistant Deputy Chief Kaitlin Sahni and Trial Attorneys Kate Naseef and Kirk Handrich of the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs thanks Brazilian authorities for their assistance in securing the arrest and extradition of Gonzalez-Valencia.
LeClaire Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Davenport, IA – Paul John McNicol, age 30, of LeClaire, was sentenced on November 30, 2022, to 216 months in prison for receiving child pornography. McNicol was also ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution and a $5,000 special assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. Following his imprisonment, McNicol was ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release.
Law enforcement identified McNicol after he uploaded sexually explicit images of minors to the social media program, KIK. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at McNicol’s residence and seized electronic devices, on which they located numerous images and videos depicting child pornography. McNicol was required to register as a sex offender following his 2014 Illinois convictions for Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse and Criminal Sexual Abuse.
U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Childhood” initiative, which was started in 2006 as a nationwide effort to combine law enforcement investigations and prosecutions, community action, and public awareness in order to reduce the incidence of sexual exploitation of children. Any persons having knowledge of a child being sexually abused are encouraged to call the Iowa Sexual Abuse Hotline at 1-800-284-7821.
Las Vegas Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Multiple Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
A Nevada man was sentenced Nov. 30 to 13 years and three months in prison for filing false tax returns, aggravated identity theft, wire fraud, money laundering and impersonating an FBI agent.
According to court documents and statements made in court, King Isaac Umoren, 41, owned and operated Universal Tax Services (UTS), a tax preparation business based in Las Vegas. Umoren used that business to engage in two separate fraud schemes.
First, from 2012 through 2016, Umoren prepared and filed with the IRS tax returns for clients that included false deductions and fictitious businesses in an effort to generate larger refunds than the clients were entitled to receive. At times, Umoren used the names and the IRS Preparer Tax Identification Numbers (PTINs) of other UTS employees without their knowledge or consent, making it seem as if they, not he, had prepared the false returns. Umoren also required his clients to use a refund anticipation check program, which he then utilized to secretly take fees out of the clients’ tax refunds without their knowledge. On Feb. 7, 2016, Umoren posed as an FBI agent, wearing a fake badge and tactical gear, and drove to a client’s house with police lights attached to his vehicle to demand payment of a tax preparation fee.
Second, in May 2016, Umoren attempted to sell UTS. To induce potential buyers to purchase the company at an inflated price, he provided fraudulent documents – including forged bank statements, fabricated return preparation fee reports, false personal tax returns and other tax forms that had never actually been filed with the IRS – as well as the stolen tax and personal identifying information of approximately 12,000 taxpayers who were not UTS clients. Eventually, Umoren succeeded in inducing a victim to purchase UTS for approximately $3.8 million. He used the sale proceeds to purchase land in Henderson and an automobile.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Andrew P. Gordon ordered Umoren to serve three years of supervised release and pay $9,699,887 in restitution to the United States and the other victims of his fraud schemes.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, and the FBI investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys Sarah A. Kiewlicz and Patrick Burns of the Tax Division prosecuted the case.
Las Vegas Man Sentenced to Prison for Unlawful Possession of A Machine Gun and "Ghost Guns"Read the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man who has prior felony convictions was sentenced on Wednesday by U.S. District Judge Ann R. Traum to 57 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for unlawful possession of six firearms. The firearms included a machine gun, a short-barreled rifle, and unserialized privately made firearms (PMF), sometimes referred to as “ghost guns.”
In August 2022, Alfonzo Lee Womack (30) pleaded guilty to felon in possession of firearms and illegal possession of a machine gun. According to court documents, on October 5, 2020, near Sloan, Nev., Womack possessed six firearms. One of those firearms was a Glock 22 modified to fire as a machine gun, with an attached 31-round capacity magazine. Womack committed the acts in this case just four months after his most recent felony conviction and while on probation. He is prohibited by law from possessing firearms and ammunition due to prior felony convictions which included two separate convictions for trafficking cocaine and methamphetamine, corporal injury on spouse or inhabitant, and evading a police officer.
U.S. Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
The ATF and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dan Cowhig prosecuted the case.
If you have information about illegal firearms activity, you are urged to submit a tip to ATF by calling the hotline at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867) or through the ReportIt mobile app.
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Las Cruces man charged with federal drug, firearms crimesRead 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 that Djuan Anthony Aldredge was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. Aldredge, 30, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, appeared in federal court on Nov. 30 for a detention hearing and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to a criminal complaint, on July 1, FBI agents and officers with the Southern New Mexico Safe Streets Gang Task Force executed a federal search warrant for Aldredge, his residence in Las Cruces and his vehicle. In Aldredge’s bedroom, investigators found 305.8 grams of methamphetamine, two pistols, a 60-round ammunition drum, multiple ammunition magazines, assorted ammunition, body armor and firearms accessories. Investigators also found another pistol in Aldredge’s vehicle, and two rifles in the closet of another bedroom in the residence.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Aldredge faces a potential mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and a minimum of five years and up to life in prison for possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Southern New Mexico Safe Streets Gang Task Force and the Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics Agency. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Ramirez is prosecuting the case.
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Lancaster Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Narcotics and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Shawn Money Jones, 33, of Lancaster, PA, was sentenced to 15 years in prison and five years of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Joseph F. Leeson, Jr., for being convicted of possession with intent to distribute a variety of illegal narcotics, and illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.
In August 2022, the defendant pleaded guilty to three counts, which included two counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. The charges in this case stemmed from a months-long investigation, which culminated in a search of the defendant’s residence. During the search, local and federal investigators located and seized methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and a substance containing a detectable amount of oxycodone. Investigators also seized thousands of dollars in cash and three semi-automatic firearms, including one assault rifle and one “ghost gun” with no make, model, or serial number.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to keep illegal weapons out of the hands of people who are not permitted to possess them, and to cutting off the supply of deadly narcotics flowing into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Shawn Money Jones presented a danger to the community in Lancaster, and for his crimes he will now spend fifteen years in prison.”
“Like other drug traffickers, Shawn Jones had no regard for the harm he caused in his community,” said Jacqueline Maguire, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “Getting illegal narcotics off the street and illegal guns out of criminals’ hands is a step toward making Lancaster safer. The FBI and our partners will continue to work on behalf of all the good, law-abiding folks there.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Lancaster County Drug Task Force, the Lancaster City Bureau of Police Selective Enforcement Unit, and Pennsylvania State Parole, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Stengel.
Lake City Man Pleads Guilty to COVID Relief Fraud Involving Fraudulently Obtained Paycheck Protection Program LoanRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jacob Deandre Byrd (20, Lake City) has pleaded guilty to wire fraud involving COVID Relief Fraud through the Paycheck Protection Program. Byrd faces up to 20 years in federal prison and payment of restitution to the United States government. Byrd has agreed to forfeit $20,833, representing the proceeds of the offense.
According to court documents, in April 2021, Byrd submitted a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan application to a lender authorized by the Small Business Administration to lend funds for approved PPP loan applications. The PPP loan application falsely claimed that Byrd operated his own business, “Jacob’s Beauty.” Throughout the loan application Byrd made multiple false statements regarding his purported gross income and expenses associated with operating Jacob’s Beauty. In support of his PPP loan application, Byrd submitted a false IRS Form 1040 “Profit or Loss From Business” for Jacob’s Beauty. It contained false statements about operating expenses, gross income, and wage expenditures for his purported business. In truth, Jacob’s Beauty did not exist. In reliance on the false statements in his PPP loan application, the Small Business Administration funded a PPP loan for Jacob’s Beauty totaling $20,833. After receiving the PPP loan proceeds into his bank account, Byrd began making withdrawals and spending the funds on personal expenses.
This case is being prosecuted as part the Department of Justice’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the CARES Act relief programs. The CARES Act is a federal law enacted in March 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the two programs that were developed through CARES Act is the PPP. It provides funding to businesses through PPP loans for payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities. PPP allows the interest and principal on loans to be forgiven if the business spends proceeds on certain expense items within a designated time and uses a certain percentage of the loan on payroll expenses. The Department of Justice remains vigilant in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting wrongdoing related to the crisis.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Mai Tran.
Korean National Sentenced to Almost 2 Years in Prison for “Bust Out” Bank Fraud Scheme in Sacramento Area and ElsewhereRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jong Eun Lee, 48, a Korean national residing in Southern California, was sentenced today to 22 months in prison for a bank fraud conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, between January 2016, and December 2017, Lee participated in a nationwide check kiting “bust out” scheme in order to obtain cash from banks. The scheme’s participants obtained a real Republic of Korea passport that was altered to bear a new photograph and name, which they used to open bank accounts with a small amount of cash. The accounts were dormant until a time the participants believed the bank would allow the account holder to deposit a check and make withdrawals before the check actually cleared. At that time, the participants wrote checks from a different bank account with non-sufficient funds, deposited those checks into the dormant account, and then withdrew cash from the dormant account before the checks cleared. The participants would access funds by purchasing a money order and then deposit the money order into yet another bank account associated with the scheme.
Lee is associated with opening source accounts or draining victim accounts. These bust-outs resulted in an actual loss of $378,735 to the banks, and a total intended loss of $756,218 based on additional, unsuccessful bust-out attempts.
On Nov. 10, 2022, Kyung Min Kong, 55, a citizen of South Korea, was sentenced to seven years and nine months in prison. Co-defendant Jeffrey Kim is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 26, 2023. Charges are pending against the remaining defendants: Ki Jang, Hee Soung Oh, and Bon Soke Hong, who were all indicted on Oct. 21, 2021. The charges against them are only allegations; they are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the product of an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey B. Hemesath is prosecuting the case.
KS Man Indicted for Child Porn ProductionRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with one count of sexual exploitation of a child – production of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.
Joel Cypert, 35, of Columbus is accused of creating sexually explicit images of a prepubescent, minor victim.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and U.S. Immigration and Customs (ICE) are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly Gordon is prosecuting the case.
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 https://www.justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
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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Justice Department Secures Settlement with State of Iowa Addressing Unconstitutional Conditions at Glenwood Resource CenterRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that it has filed a complaint and a proposed consent decree with the State of Iowa to resolve allegations that conditions at Glenwood Resource Center (Glenwood), an institution for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD), violated the Constitution.
Specifically, the proposed consent decree, which must still be approved by the court, would resolve the department’s claims that the State exposes Glenwood residents to unreasonable harm and serious risk of harm by subjecting them to uncontrolled and unsupervised experimentation, inadequate physical and behavioral health care and inadequate protection from harm, including deficient safety and oversight mechanisms.
“People with disabilities should not be subjected to the kind of unconstitutional conditions and ill treatment that too many have experienced at Glenwood,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This agreement makes clear that the basic constitutional rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in state-run facilities must be protected. Our agreement will ensure adequate oversight of and accountability at Glenwood, and requires extensive public reporting to promote transparency and rebuild public trust. For those who are leaving Glenwood, our agreement requires the State to help them transition to services that will meet their needs in the most integrated setting and support them in engaging with the broader community.”
The proposed consent decree prohibits uncontrolled and unsupervised experiments; requires better staffing, training and oversight for clinical care; dramatically limits the use of restraints and seclusion; and requires substantial State oversight over all aspects of Glenwood’s operation. The State must also implement policies and procedures to address the underlying deficiencies that led to the alleged constitutional violations. In addition, the decree requires greater transparency, through public reporting and engagement with stakeholders. The proposed consent decree appoints an independent monitor who will assess the State’s compliance with the decree’s terms.
Further, if more than one-third of current Glenwood residents move to, and are living at, Woodward Resource Center (the other State-run institution for individuals with IDD) at any point during the decree term, then the consent decree will apply to Woodward as well. The State of Iowa announced in April 2022 that it plans to close Glenwood in approximately two years, and the proposed consent decree requires the State to ensure that Glenwood residents move to the most integrated setting consistent with their informed choice, needs and preferences, with the appropriate services and supports in place.
The Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa initiated the investigation in November 2019 under the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act, which authorizes the department to act to correct a pattern or practice of deprivation of federal rights of individuals who reside in institutions, such as Glenwood Resource Center. In December 2020, the department provided the State written notice of the alleged unlawful conditions and remedial measures necessary to address them. Specifically, the department concluded that there is reasonable cause to believe that the State of Iowa violated the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution by harming Glenwood residents and placing them at serious risk of harm.
The proposed consent decree does not resolve the department’s notice issued in December 2021 regarding unnecessary institutionalization of people with IDD at Glenwood and Woodward Resource Centers, in violation of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Negotiations to resolve the December 202 Notice are ongoing.
Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the department via email at [email protected]. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt.
Justice Department Secures Promotion and Backpay for National Guardsman in Puerto Rico and Continues to Defend Reemployment Rights of ServicemembersRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that it has resolved a claim that the Puerto Rico Department of Education (PRDE) violated the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) when it failed to reemploy Puerto Rico National Guardsman Sergeant(E-5) Daniel Nazario to his proper position upon his return from military service. Based on the terms of the settlement, PRDE will promote Sergeant Nazario to his proper position as a school director in his preferred school district and will be awarding him backpay and seniority.
“Federal law requires employers to reemploy servicemembers into the positions that they would have held had their employment not been interrupted by military service, and also prohibits employers from denying promotions because of employees’ military obligations,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to protecting the civil rights of servicemembers who sacrifice to serve our country.”
Congress enacted USERRA to encourage non-career service in the military by reducing employment disadvantages; to minimize the disruption to the lives of persons performing military service, their employers, and others, by providing for the prompt reemployment of such persons upon the completion of their service; and to prohibit discrimination and retaliation against servicemembers if they pursue a claim under USERRA.
“The successful settlement of National Guardsman Daniel Nazario’s case with the PRDE, including his reinstatement to a permanent position, is an important step in the enforcement of servicemember rights and serves to highlight the proper treatment that must be afforded to these valuable members of our community,” said U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow for the District of Puerto Rico.
At the time his deployment, Sergeant Nazario was one of six temporary school directors in the Barranquitas school district. During his deployment, the PRDE promoted all the school directors in that district except for Sergeant Nazario to permanent positions. Upon his return from active duty, the PRDE initially rehired him as an English teacher and did not to promote him into a permanent school director position. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, the PRDE agreed to promote Sergeant Nazario to a permanent school director position with full benefits retroactive to June 2017, the date of his return from active duty, and pay him $2,840.00 in full back wages for his lost salary.
The Department of Labor (DOL) referred this matter to the Justice Department following an investigation by its Veterans’ Employment and Training Service.
Senior Trial Attorney and USERRA/USAO Program Coordinator Alicia D. Johnson in the Civil Rights Division’s Employment Litigation Section (ELS), in collaboration with Assistant U.S. Attorney David Martorani for the District of Puerto Rico prosecuted this matter.
The Justice Department gives high priority to the enforcement of servicemembers’ rights under USERRA. ELS continues to work collaboratively with the DOL to protect the jobs and benefits of military members. Additional information about USERRA can be found on the Justice Department’s websites at https://www.justice.gov/servicemembers, as well as on the Department of Labor’s website at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/vets/programs/userra.
Justice Department Provides Resources for Afghans and Ukrainians on Their Employment RightsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today resources to help Afghans and Ukrainians in the United States understand their employment rights. These resources explain the workplace protections that Afghan and Ukrainian immigrants have under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which prohibits employment discrimination based on citizenship, immigration status and national origin. Generally, employers are not allowed to discriminate against workers who have permission to work based on their citizenship or immigration status when hiring, firing or recruiting. Federal law also protects workers from discrimination based on their national origin.
“Preventing unlawful discrimination includes making sure that workers know their rights,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division is ready to assist Afghans and Ukrainians in the United States, and will use all available tools to ensure they are not unlawfully discriminated against in the workplace.”
Afghans and Ukrainians in the U.S. may have a variety of immigration statuses. Some have arrived through Operation Allies Welcome and Uniting for Ukraine. These fact sheets include information for asylees, refugees, lawful permanent residents, individuals with Temporary Protected Status and those granted parole under Operation Allies Welcome or Uniting for Ukraine. As explained in these resources, the INA also protects workers from discrimination when an employer is checking their permission to work, often referred to as the employment eligibility verification process. The fact sheets provide examples of documentation that these workers may show during this process and emphasize that workers have the right to choose which valid documentation they can show to demonstrate their identity and permission to work.
Finally, the fact sheets provide information on how Afghans and Ukrainians in the United States can get help with a work-related issue through the worker hotline operated by the division’s Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER). This worker hotline is free and is available to all workers who have questions about discrimination in the workplace based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin.
Learn more about IER’s work and how to get assistance through this brief video. Applicants or employees who believe they were discriminated against based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin in hiring, firing, recruitment or during the employment eligibility verification process (Form I-9 and E-Verify), or subjected to retaliation, may file a charge. The public also can contact IER’s worker hotline at 1-800-255-7688; call IER’s employer hotline at 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); email [email protected]; sign up for a free webinar; or visit IER’s English and Spanish websites. Subscribe to GovDelivery to receive updates from IER.
View Russian translation here.
View Ukranian translation here.
View Pashto translation here.
View Dari translation here.
Jury finds 2 defendants guilty of participating in nationwide foreclosure rescue scamRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – A federal jury has convicted two individuals of crimes related to their participation in a foreclosure rescue scheme that defrauded at least 780 financially distressed homeowners throughout the United States. The defendants preyed on homeowners who had defaulted on their mortgages and convinced the victims to pay to take part in fraudulent programs on the promise it would save their homes.
Lorin Kal Buckner, 66, of Hamilton, Ohio, and Dessalines Sealy, 59, of Brooklyn, New York, were two of four defendants who began trial in federal court in Cincinnati on Nov. 14. The other two trial defendants – Joel Harvey, 40, of Cincinnati, and Garrett Stevenson, 45, of Cincinnati – pleaded guilty during the trial.
Buckner and Sealy’s verdicts were announced today following the trial before Senior U.S. District Judge Michael R. Barrett.
Buckner, Sealy, Harvey and Stevenson are four of 13 total defendants in this case.
According to court documents and trial testimony, from 2013 through 2018, the defendants took advantage of homeowners’ desperation to save their homes and used money from homeowner victims to personally enrich themselves.
“The defendants took advantage of folks’ financial despair and emotional vulnerabilities to fill their own pockets,” said U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker. “It was a priority for our office and our law enforcement partners to address this nationwide foreclosure scheme.”
Co-conspirators used companies to engage in a multi-level marketing scheme. The companies named in this case include:
- MVP Home Solutions, LLC, also known as
- Stay In or Walk Away;
- Bolden Pinnacle Group Corp., also known as
- Home Advisory Services Network
- Home Advisory Services Group Inc.; and
- Silverstein & Wolf Corp.
Defendants promised affiliates commissions by recruiting distressed homeowners to the above-named companies.
They used multiple ways to recruit affiliates, including conference calls and direct mailings. For example, some co-conspirators hosted weekly conference calls where participants from across the country dialed in to hear details of the scheme and share sales strategies. During the calls, defendants encouraged affiliates to recruit homeowners to their companies on the promise of easy money.
Affiliates were encouraged to be aggressive in recruiting homeowners. Affiliates used online databases and court records to identify vulnerable, financially distressed homeowners who had recently received notice of foreclosure on their home.
Co-conspirators mailed more than 56,000 postcards in the Southern District of Ohio and elsewhere promising that they could “stop foreclosure” or “stop the sheriff sale” for a fixed fee. Co-conspirators also reached out to homeowners using Craigslist ads, websites, email and social media platforms.
On the promise of reducing or eliminating mortgage obligations in exchange for a fee, initial recruiters would collect payments from homeowners and refer the victims to the co-conspirator companies.
Among other things, the referral programs promised:
- to negotiate with mortgage lenders on the homeowners’ behalf for the purchase of the mortgage notes at a discount;
- to negotiate the sale of their home and release of their mortgage loans through a short sale and/or deed in lieu of foreclosure sale;
- to stop an imminent foreclosure sale;
- to remove the mortgage lien via a tender offer; and
- achieve short sale prices at a fraction of the value of the outstanding lien/note.
Further, defendants represented that they had “proprietary” methods or “legal tactics” to help homeowners stall or completely avoid foreclosure. In actuality, the defendants persuaded homeowners to file chapter 13 bankruptcies to delay foreclosure actions.
Defendants filed skeletal bankruptcy petitions that they called “pump fakes” or “missiles,” These petitions intentionally failed to disclose the co-conspirators as preparers giving the appearance that the homeowners had filed the petitions pro se. Any relief from foreclosure delay was temporary until the bankruptcy court dismissed the proceeding.
The jury convicted Buckner and Sealy of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud as well as conspiracy to commit bankruptcy fraud.
Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Robert Manchak, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Housing Finance Agency - Office of Inspector General (FHFA-OIG), Northeast Region; J. William Rivers, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; Lesley C. Allison, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Pittsburgh Division; and Philip R. Bartlett, Inspector in Charge, USPIS, New York Division, announced today’s verdict. Assistant United States Attorneys Ebunoluwa A. Taiwo and Timothy S. Mangan are representing the United States in this case.
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- MVP Home Solutions, LLC, also known as
Johnstown Man Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for Unlawfully Possessing Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Johnstown, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 60 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release on his conviction of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Hasus L. Hardy, age 35.
According to information presented to the court, on or about August 25, 2021, Hardy knowingly, intentionally, and unlawfully, possessed firearms and ammunition, after having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Ms. Chung commended United States Marshals Service for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Hardy.
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.
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison on Bank Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft ChargesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Damien Deshaun Dennis (43, Jacksonville) to 12 years in federal prison for bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. Dennis was also ordered to pay restitution to the victims he defrauded. Dennis was arrested by the United States Secret Service Jacksonville Field Office on April 11, 2022, and ordered detained pending the outcome of his case. He had pleaded guilty on July 12, 2022.
According to court documents and evidence presented at the sentencing hearing, on August 9, 2021, Dennis entered a Community First Credit Union (CFCU) branch in Jacksonville. Using the identity of G.M., Dennis explained that he wanted to open a bank account. He then presented a counterfeit South Carolina driver license containing a picture of Dennis, but in the name of and containing the genuine date of birth of G.M. Dennis also provided a fraudulent document showing a home address in Jacksonville and a fraudulent pay document outlining his purported employment at a company in Jacksonville. After completing a “New Membership Application” using G.M.’s identity, including his Social Security number, CFCU approved the bank account application. Dennis then applied for a personal loan, stating he needed to pay for an upcoming wedding. In reliance on his false statements, the counterfeit driver license, and accompanying fraudulent documents, CFCU approved the personal loan in the name of G.M. for $20,000. Dennis subsequently made a cash withdrawal of $20,000 and left the branch.
On September 2, 2021, Dennis went to a different CFCU branch in Jacksonville. Using the identity of J.C., Dennis again explained that he wanted to open a bank account. He then presented a counterfeit Pennsylvania driver license containing a picture of Dennis, but in the name of and containing the genuine date of birth of J.C. Dennis also provided fraudulent documents in support of opening the bank account. CFCU employees became suspicious of Dennis and contacted the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO). A JSO officer responded and spoke with Dennis who provided the officer with the victim’s name and the counterfeit Pennsylvania driver license. While Dennis and the officer were conferring outside of the credit union, Dennis fled from the officer, running through eight lanes of traffic on Beach Boulevard and into a residential neighborhood with the officer in pursuit. JSO air, canine, and ground units responded to the neighborhood. After a 20-minute search of the area, Dennis was apprehended and taken into custody. Further investigation by law enforcement determined that Dennis had attempted to open bank accounts at two additional financial institutions, using stolen identities.
In 2008 the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Jacksonville Division prosecuted Dennis, as part of a case involving a conspiracy to produce and pass counterfeit corporate checks. Dennis was convicted and sentenced to five years in federal prison in 2009.
“The Secret Service works hand in hand with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to vigorously apprehend and prosecute prolific criminals like this defendant. This type of sentence sends the perfect message to both the victims in this case and any future criminals who think about engaging in aggravated identity theft here in North Florida,” stated E. Joseph Scargill, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Secret Service Jacksonville Field Office.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the United States Secret Service - Jacksonville Field Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
Jacksonville Man Indicted on Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A grand jury this week indicted a resident of Jacksonville, Alabama, on child exploitation charges, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Felix A. Rivera-Esparra.
A two-count indictment filed in the U.S. District Court charges Skyler Joseph Weeks, 31, with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor and possession of child pornography arising out of events that occurred from August 2022 to October 2022.
According to the indictment, from August 7, 2022, until October 13, 2022, Weeks attempted to coerce and entice an individual who had not attained the age of 18 years to engage in prostitution and other sexual activity. Weeks also illegally possessed child pornography that involved a minor that had not attained the 12 years of age.
The maximum penalty for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor is ten years to life in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for child pornography is 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The FBI investigated the case along with the Homewood Police Department. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency assisted in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel S. McBrayer is prosecuting the case.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
An indictment contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Honduran National Charged with Illegally Reentering the U.S.Read the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MARLON AMAYA-LOPEZ, also known as Elder Figueroa, 33, a citizen of Honduras residing in Bridgeport, was arrested yesterday on an indictment charging him with one count of illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.
The indictment was returned on May 11, 2021 and unsealed yesterday after Amaya-Lopez was located and arrested. He appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Dave Vatti in Bridgeport, entered a plea of not guilty to the charge, and was ordered detained pending trial.
As alleged in the indictment, Amaya-Lopez was previously deported and removed from the U.S. to Honduras following a felony conviction in April 2007 in Connecticut Superior Court for attempted robbery in the second degree. He reentered the U.S. and returned to Connecticut without obtaining the consent of the Attorney General of the United States or his successor, the Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security, to reapply for admission into the U.S.
If convicted of the charge of illegal reentry, Amaya-Lopez faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. The penalties in this matter are enhanced based on his prior conviction for a felony.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial at which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Neeraj N. Patel and Stephanie T. Levick.
Grant County man sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Leroy Dillow, Jr., of Petersburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 50 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Dillow, 35, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine.” Dillow admitted to selling methamphetamine in June 2021 in Grant County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Georgia Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Threats Against the PresidentRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Georgia man was sentenced to prison for threatening to kill the President of the United States and blow up the White House, following an investigation that included multiple death threats issued against local judges, law enforcement and a threat letter containing a white powdery substance sent to the U.S. Courthouse in Macon.
Travis Ball, 56, of Barnesville, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 33 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $7,500 fine by Chief U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Nov. 30 after he previously pleaded guilty to threats against the President. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Sending death threats and purported anthrax is not protected speech — it is a crime,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “I applaud the investigative work by our federal and local law enforcement partners to secure justice in this case.”
“The sentencing in federal court of Mr. Ball is commensurate with the wasted resources and concern generated by his hate-filled hoax anthrax letter campaign,” said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “While Mr. Ball’s criminal conduct clearly illustrates his lack of concern and compassion for others, it also illustrates an unwillingness to be rehabilitated.”
“The U.S. Secret Service works closely with law enforcement and criminal justice partners at every level to investigate threats against our protectees,” said U.S. Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge Clint Bush with the Albany, Georgia, Resident Office. “Our zero-fail mission requires a tireless dedication from thousands of agents and investigators across the country to ensure the nation’s highest elected officials are protected from criminals like Travis Ball. Those who perpetrate these crimes must be held accountable for their actions, and we are thankful for the strong partnership we enjoy with the Department of Justice.”
According to court documents and other evidence, Ball sent a series of letters using another individual’s name as an alias to a variety of local and county government offices and officials, including judges with the Superior Court of Jones County, Georgia, and the Jones County Sheriff’s Office in March 2021. On March 23, 2021, a threat letter signed with the same name and the same return address was received at the U.S. District Courthouse for the Middle District of Georgia, which contained a white powdery substance. At that point, federal law enforcement agencies, including FBI, began investigating the source of the letters and identified Ball as the suspected author.
On March 23, 2021, a warrant was executed at Ball’s residence and agents noted that Ball was residing in the front living room where he slept on a cot and spent most of his time on a laptop computer and writing letters. One of the items seized was a stack of white leaflet notebook paper that matched the threat letters found on the mantle above his cot. The top page had the impression of a letter. Investigators lightly shaded the page with a pencil and discovered that it contained an explicit threat against the President of the United States, Joseph R. Biden, dated on March 8, 2021, which stated, “HATE YOU JOE BIDEN AND AM GOING TO KILL YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AND EVERYONE IN THE WHITEHOUSE! I’M A PSYCHO KILLER AND AM GOING TO BLOWUP THE WHITEHOUSE AND KILL EVERYONE IN IT! IM SERIOUS AND NOT KIDDING! LOCK ME UP OR ALL OF YOU WILL DIE! HAVE SOME ANTHRAX YOU BASTARDS!” The White House Mail Sorting Facility received the letter on March 30, 2021, which was turned over to U.S. Secret Service.
Ball was convicted of felony hoax threats in the Northern District of Georgia in June 2017 after he sent letters to the State Bar of Georgia and to Atlanta Newspapers in 2016 that contained a white powdery substance with threats to “kill all of you” and “have some anthrax.” Ball was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on June 23, 2017.
The case was investigated by the FBI, the U.S. Secret Service and the Jones County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex Kalim prosecuted the case for the Government.