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19 October 2022
Doctor Sentenced for Accepting Illegal Kickback Payment in Return for Writing Prescriptions for Compounded DrugsRead the Press Release
A doctor licensed in the states of Oklahoma and Texas was sentenced for writing and referring compounded drug prescriptions in return for illegal kickback payments, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Daniel L. Hovland sentenced Jerry May Keepers, 69, of Kingwood, Texas, to 36 months of supervised probation. Restitution will be determined at a later date. Keepers will pay no more than $1,518,180.46 in restitution according to his plea agreement.
Keepers previously pleaded guilty to one count of soliciting and receiving heath care kickback. Keepers violated the federal anti-kickback statute when he accepted the illegal payment.
In the plea agreement, Keepers admitted that OK Compounding solicited him to write prescriptions for his patients that would be filled by the pharmacy. OK Compounding was a pharmacy controlled by Christopher Parks and Dr. Gary Lee, who are also defendants in the case.
Specifically, on January 22, 2014, Keepers knowingly received $25,000 from representatives of OK Compounding. The purpose of the payment was to induce Keepers to refer prescriptions for expensive compounded drugs to the pharmacy. The compounded medications were filled, and claims were filed by the pharmacy. Those medications were in turn paid for by federal healthcare programs, including TRICARE, Medicare, CHAMPVA, and the Federal Employees Compensation Act Program.
According to the superseding indictment filed in the case, kickback payments were disguised through various sham business arrangements, including contracts where several physicians purported to serve as “medical directors” or “consulting physicians” for the pharmacy. Keepers and OK Compounding represented that Keepers had been paid for his services as a national spokesperson, medical director or national marketing director.
It is illegal to pay or receive “kickbacks” in conjunction with federal health care insurance. Prohibitions against kickbacks are crucial to ensure that financial motives do not undermine the medical judgment of physicians and other health care providers.
The Department of Labor- Office of Inspector General (OIG), IRS - Criminal Investigation, U.S. Postal Service- OIG, Department of Veterans Affairs- OIG, FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services-OIG, and Defense Criminal Investigative Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melody Noble Nelson and Richard M. Cella are prosecuting the cases.
Directors Resign from the Boards of Five Companies in Response to Justice Department Concerns about Potentially Illegal Interlocking DirectoratesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - The Justice Department announced today that seven directors have resigned from corporate board positions in response to concerns by the Antitrust Division that their roles violated the Clayton Act’s prohibition on interlocking directorates. Section 8 of the Clayton Act (Section 8) prohibits directors and officers from serving simultaneously on the boards of competitors, subject to limited exceptions. Over the last several months, the Division announced its intent to reinvigorate Section 8 enforcement. This announcement is the first in a broader review of potentially unlawful interlocking directorates.
“Section 8 is an important, but underenforced, part of our antitrust laws. Congress made interlocking directorates a per se violation of the antitrust laws for good reason. Competitors sharing officers or directors further concentrates power and creates the opportunity to exchange competitively sensitive information and facilitate coordination – all to the detriment of the economy and the American public,” said Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The Antitrust Division is undertaking an extensive review of interlocking directorates across the entire economy and will enforce the law.”
By eliminating the opportunity to coordinate – explicitly or implicitly – through interlocking directorates, Section 8 is also intended to prevent other violations of the antitrust laws before they occur. In response to the Division’s competition concerns, the following companies and directors unwound the interlocks without admitting to liability:
- Definitive Healthcare Corp. and ZoomInfo Technologies Inc. – Definitive and ZoomInfo operate go-to-market information and intelligence platforms used by third-party sales, marketing, operations, and recruiting teams across the United States. One director served simultaneously on the boards of both companies and resigned from Definitive’s board in response to the Division’s concerns about the alleged interlock.
- Maxar Technologies Inc. and Redwire Corp. – Maxar and Redwire are providers of space infrastructure and communications products and services. One director served simultaneously on the boards of both companies and resigned from Redwire’s board in response to the Division’s concerns about the alleged interlock.
- Littelfuse Inc. and CTS Corp. – Littelfuse and CTS are manufacturers of components and technologies for use in transportation applications, including sensors and switches for use in passenger and commercial vehicles. One director served simultaneously on the boards of both companies and resigned from CTS’s board in response to the Division’s concerns about the alleged interlock.
- Skillsoft Corp. and Udemy Inc. – Skillsoft and Udemy are providers of online corporate education services. One director served simultaneously on the boards of both companies, as did the investment firm Prosus, through that director, because he represented Prosus on both boards at the same time. The director resigned from Udemy’s board in response to the Division’s concerns about the alleged interlock.
- Solarwinds Corp. and Dynatrace, Inc. – Solarwinds and Dynatrace are providers of Application Performance Monitoring (APM) software. One director served simultaneously on the boards of both companies, as did the investment firm Thoma Bravo, through this director, because he represented Thoma Bravo on both boards at the same time. Two additional directors also represented Thoma Bravo on the Solarwinds board. All three directors resigned from Solarwinds’s board in response to the Division’s concerns about the alleged interlock.
Companies, officers, and board members should expect that enforcement of Section 8 will continue to be a priority for the Antitrust Division. Anyone with information about potential interlocking directorates or any other potential violations of the antitrust laws is encouraged to contact the Antitrust Division’s Citizen Complaint Center at 1-888-647-3258 or [email protected].
Detroit Street Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Murdering Two People as Part of a Racketeering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
DETROIT – A Detroit street gang member pleaded guilty to murdering a rival gang member and an innocent 13-year-old bystander as part of a racketeering conspiracy, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced today.
Ison was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge James A. Tarasca, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detroit Division.
According to court records, Edwin Mills, 32, of Detroit, Michigan, admitted to being a member of the “6 Mile Chedda Grove” gang, which is a street gang that operates on the eastside of Detroit. 6 Mile Chedda Grove is a violent organization responsible for murders, assaults, robberies, and narcotics trafficking in the Detroit metropolitan area and in other states. The gang used violence to retaliate against rivals and to advance members’ positions within the gang.
As a part of his plea, Mills admitted to participating in the 2015 murder of a rival gang member and an innocent bystander. According to plea documents, Mills was with another gang member when he saw the rival in a car outside of a market in the eastside of Detroit. Mills and a co-conspirator killed the rival gang member and an innocent bystander when they fired multiple shots at the vehicle. Mills and his fellow gang member also seriously injured two other people who had been sitting on the hood of the car at which Mills had been firing.
When authorities had first arrested Mills and searched his residence, they found two AK-47 rifles, a pistol, several hundred rounds of ammunition, multiple loaded “magazines” of ammunition (including loaded AK-47 magazines taped together (allegedly “for faster re-loading”), and a bayonet.
Mills is the last of the eleven members of 6 Mile Chedda Grove to be convicted. Ten other gang members have previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the gang.
“Edwin Mills admitted to committing violent crimes, including murder, as a member of the 6 Mile street gang. Tragically, while retaliating against a rival gang member, Mills shot and killed an innocent 13-year-old bystander,” said U.S. Attorney Ison. “Two other minor children were also injured by his actions. This case represents how violent crime, particularly gun violence, devastates our community, and why I will use every resource of the federal government to bring those who commit violence to justice.”
Sentencing for Mills is set for February 2, 2023. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Mills faces a sentence of 25 years in prison.The case was investigated by special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Moran and Andrew R. Picek.
Defendant Sentenced to 10 Years in Case Featured on HBO Documentary “the Crime of the Century”Read the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorneys Adam Gordon (619) 546-6720
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY — October 19, 2022
SAN DIEGO— Cole Thomas Salazar was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Cathy Ann Bencivengo to 120 months for his role in supplying the fatal dose of powdered fentanyl that resulted in the death of 24-year-old Sarah Elizabeth Fuzzell on November 3, 2020.
According to his plea agreement, Salazar used an online classified ads service to offer controlled substances for sale. After communicating with Fuzzell online, Salazar sold fentanyl to her on November 2, 2020, and she subsequently died from this fentanyl. On January 10, 2021, law enforcement arrested Salazar and found on his person packages of heroin and fentanyl.
A search of a nearby hotel room turned up numerous quantities of controlled substances including more fentanyl and dealer-related paraphernalia such as scales, baggies and pay-and-owe sheets. The plea agreement stipulates for Salazar that the commission of the offense of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and/or serious bodily injury applies. The investigation and arrest of Salazar and his co-defendant Valerie Lynn Addison was featured in the HBO “The Crime of the Century.”
Addison is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Bencivengo on November 16, 2022.
“Our community lost a vibrant, intelligent 24-year-old victim to powdered fentanyl,” said U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman. “We can’t stress enough the danger of powdered fentanyl. If you are a drug dealer who chooses to sell powdered fentanyl – disregarding the extreme risk – our office will prosecute you for any death resulting from your sale.”
“Drug dealers like Mr. Salazar must be held accountable for the rising fentanyl deaths we have seen in San Diego communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Shelly Howe. “Fake pills and powdered fentanyl have no place in San Diego, and we will continue to bring those who sell these drugs to justice.”
“The sentence imposed on the lethal dose of powered fentanyl that resulted in the tragic death of a young person sends a clear message to drug criminal drug dealers,” said Chad Plantz, special agent in charge for HSI San Diego. “There are serious consequences to peddling these dangerous substances. HSI along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to seek out and bring to justice those involved drug overdoses of any kind.”
This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration to investigate and prosecute the distribution of dangerous illegal drugs—fentanyl in particular—that result in overdose deaths. The Drug Enforcement Administration created the Overdose Response Team as a response to the increase in overdose deaths in San Diego County. Investigators from the DEA’s Overdose Response Team led the investigation into Fuzzell’s death.
DEFENDANTS Case Number 21cr3518-CAB
Cole Thomas Salazar Age: 32 San Diego, CA
Valerie Lynn Addison Age: 40 San Diego, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Salazar:
Possession with Intent to Distribute (Fentanyl) – Title 18, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison
Addison:
Possession with Intent to Distribute (Fentanyl and Methamphetamine) – Title18, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison
AGENCY
Drug Enforcement Administration
Homeland Security Investigations
Federal Bureau of Investigation
California Department of Health Care Services
San Diego Sheriff’s Department
San Diego Police Department
San Diego County District Attorney’s Office
Davenport Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man, Davante Shamod Howard, age 24, was sentenced on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, to 46 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, to be served consecutively to a 14-month sentence imposed upon the revocation of his supervised release in a previous federal firearms case. Following his imprisonment, Howard was ordered to serve three years of supervised release.
In September 2021, Howard had an active federal warrant for a supervised release violation. Law enforcement located Howard at a Davenport residence. Prior to his arrest, Howard had used a straw purchaser to acquire an extended rifle magazine. During a search of the residence, law enforcement located the extended magazine, as well as an AR-15 and a ghost Glock firearm. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Howard’s Snapchat account, which showed photos and videos of Howard with the rifle. In one video, Howard threatened to shoot people. Howard pleaded guilty on April 18, 2022.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Davenport Police Department investigated the case.
Court of Appeals Affirms Conviction and Sentence of Former Xerox Employee Sentenced to Life in Prison for Credit Union Robbery and MurderRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. —U. S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit has affirmed the conviction and sentence of Richard Leon Wilbern.
On November 8, 2019, following a five-week trial, a federal jury convicted Wilbern of the August 12, 2003, armed robbery of the Xerox Federal Credit Union, which resulted in the death of Raymond Batzel. On September 22, 2020, Wilbern was sentenced to serve life in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa, who presided over the trial of the case.
On August 12, 2003, Wilbern walked into Xerox Federal Credit Union, located on the Xerox Corporation campus in Webster, NY, and told an employee that he was there to conduct a security assessment and to “stage” a robbery. Wilbern then shot customer Raymond Batzel in the neck which resulted in his death. A second customer, Joseph Doud, was shot and wounded as he attempted to run outside after witnessing the shooting. Wilbern subsequently fled the credit union with a bag of money but left behind an umbrella.In March 2016, with a suspect still not in custody, a press conference was held seeking new leads in the investigation. Details of the crime were released as well as photographs of Wilbern committing the robbery. On March 27, 2016, a concerned citizen contacted the FBI and indicated that the person who committed the crime was likely a former Xerox employee named Richard Wilbern, an employee who worked for Xerox prior to the robbery but had been fired. In July 2016, FBI agents met with Wilbern regarding a complaint he had made to the FBI regarding an alleged real estate scam. During one of their meetings, agents obtained a DNA sample from Wilbern after he licked and sealed an envelope. That DNA was compared to DNA taken from the umbrella left behind by the suspect the day of the robbery and was determined to be a positive match.
In his appeal, Wilbern raised DNA, counsel, juror, and witness issues but his arguments were rejected, and the verdict and sentence were affirmed.
On appeal, the government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine A. Gregory.
The Xerox investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Webster Police Department, the New York State Police, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, the Rochester Police Department, and the United States Marshals Service. Additional assistance was provided by the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Douglas E. Gregory and Joel L. Violanti.
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Combatting Domestic Violence Remains a Law Enforcement Priority Beyond October’s Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The month of October is nationally recognized as “Domestic Violence Awareness Month.” Across North Alabama, numerous victim service providers and community-based agencies daily serve as advocates, protectors, and healers for victims of domestic violence. Their ongoing commitment to serve victims of domestic violence is shared by federal and local law enforcement agencies in North Alabama, which prioritize addressing domestic violence year-round.
In October 2020, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Alabama launched Operation Safe Families to bring federal law enforcement alongside local victim service providers, local law enforcement, and local prosecutors to better respond to the needs of victims of domestic violence and the threats presented to the community by domestic violence offenders. Not only do domestic violence offenders often terrorize former intimate partners, national and local crime data confirms that domestic violence offenders present extreme risks to law enforcement officers and are often responsible for significant amounts of violent crimes in Alabama communities.
In Jefferson County, offenders with a domestic violence history are responsible for the vast majority of homicides committed each year, while nationally domestic violence offenders present the greatest lethal threat to law enforcement officer safety. The Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office has identified that more than 70% of homicide offenders in Jefferson County for 2021 and 2022 had previously committed acts of domestic violence. While also, according to the National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial Fund’s 2022 mid-year report for law enforcement officer deaths, more law enforcement officers have been killed by firearms responding to domestic disturbance issues than in any other line of duty capacity in the United States.
“People who commit violence within their homes are often also the same people who commit violent crimes across our community,” said United States Attorney Prim F. Escalona. “Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an opportunity for our community to recognize the victim service providers and law enforcement agencies that serve and protect victims of domestic violence each day. It also serves as an opportunity to refocus local efforts on how to better to protect victims of violence and how best to prevent the continual escalation of harm that often accompanies domestic violence.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) leverage federal law enforcement resources to prioritize the prosecution of people that unlawfully possess firearms following prohibited crimes of domestic violence. Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, ATF, and the Alabama Office of Prosecution Services provide training and guidance to local law enforcement, prosecutors, and community-based service providers on how best to remove guns from the hands of domestic abusers. During 2022, Operation Safe Families law enforcement partners conducted more than 30 trainings to more than 1,000 law enforcement and community partners across Northern District of Alabama counties.
“Domestic violence is a complex crime that affects everyone involved and eventually affects the community,” ATF Special Agent in Charge Mickey French said. “It is the ATF’s duty to enforce the law and charge the individuals who unlawfully possess firearms and inflict undue harm on others. The ATF along with our state, local, and federal partners will continue to serve the public by utilizing our combined resources to bring justice to those who willingly and unlawfully harm the citizens in our communities.”
Over the last year, the Department of Justice has committed nearly $1 million of funding for new projects to address domestic violence within the Northern District of Alabama. The Office of Violence Against Women has awarded $500,000 to One Place Metro Family Justice Center to facilitate and implement the Domestic Violence and Firearms Technical Assistance Project (FTAP) in Jefferson County, and the Bureau of Justice Assistance awarded the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office in Birmingham approximately $340,000 to enhance the response of local law enforcement and prosecutors in Jefferson County. Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has dedicated Project Safe Neighborhoods grant resources to enhance protections for domestic violence victims within the district.
New efforts are also being implemented locally to address the trauma children suffer after witnessing or experiencing family violence. One Place Metro Alabama Family Justice Center has partnered with Camp Hope America to serve trauma-impacted youth in Jefferson County. The U.S. Attorney’s Office participates in and supports Camp Hope and its year-round Pathways program, which seeks to break the generational cycle of family violence by offering healing and hope to children who have witnessed and been impacted by family violence. For more information on Camp Hope America, please contact Kelly Klehm at [email protected].
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will join partners from law enforcement and community agencies in a variety of domestic violence education and service events across North Alabama. Included in these events, on October 11th the Jefferson County Firearms Technical Assistance Project had its first meeting with law enforcement and community partners, as well as representatives from the Office of Violence Against Women and the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges. Also, on October 13th the Birmingham Bar Association hosted a CLE and tour of One Place Metro Alabama Family Justice Center.
If you would like more information on Operation Safe Families, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndal/operation-safe-families-protecting-families-gun-violence or to receive training or resources related to domestic violence, please contact the U.S Attorney’s Office at 205.244.2015.
Columbia County Man Indicted for Threatening the President, A Congressman and A Federal JudgeRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Robert Maverick Vargo, age 25, of Berwick, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of threatening the President of the United States, interstate communications with a threat, and influencing a federal official by threat.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment alleges that on October 11, 2022, United States Congressman Bennie Thompson’s office received a letter from Vargo at the Rayburn House Office Building, Washington DC, containing threats to kill Representative Thompson, his family, President Joseph Biden, and U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani alluding to “Anthrax,” and containing what appeared to be a white powder.
Representative Thompson is serving his fifteenth term as the Congressman representing the second Congressional District in Mississippi. Representative Thompson is the Chairman of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol.
The letter specifically referenced Congressman Thompson’s role with the January 6 Select Committee and states “Im going to kill you! I will make you feel the rest of our pain & suffering. There is nowhere or nobody who can keep you from me. I am going to kill you & those you love. I promise you that I will keep my promise until the day of my death.” The letter goes on to state, “You & Joe Biden soon will face death for the wrongs you’ve done to US.”
Investigation by the U.S. Capitol Police Hazardous Material Response Team determined that the white powder accompanying the threats did not pose an immediate public safety hazard. It was determined through the investigation that the threatening letter and substance was sent by Vargo from the Luzerne County Correctional Facility in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police, Protective Service Bureau and the U.S. Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.
The total maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 25 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Chicago Man Charged with Drug Crimes Involving Heroin, Methamphetamine & CocaineRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – A Chicago, Illinois man is charged with drug offenses involving heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine, in an indictment returned today by a grand jury sitting in Madison, Wisconsin. The indictment is announced by Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin.
The indictment charges Dery McDuffy, 33, with 3 counts of distributing heroin, with one count alleging the distribution of 100 grams or more, and 2 counts of distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The indictment also charges him with possessing 1 kilogram or more of heroin with intent to distribute and with possessing 500 grams or more of cocaine with intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that these offenses were committed between September 7 and October 12, 2022.
If convicted, McDuffy faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and a maximum of life in federal prison on the charge of possessing 1 kilogram or more of heroin for distribution. He faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years and a maximum of 40 years on the counts alleging 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 100 grams or more of heroin, and 500 grams or more of cocaine. The remaining two heroin distribution counts have a maximum penalty of 20 years.
The charges against McDuffy are the result of an investigation by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Anderson is handling the prosecution.
You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Charlotte Man Found of Robbing Area BusinessesRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict late yesterday against John Henry Moore, 59, of Charlotte, for the robbery of two area businesses, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. U.S. District Judge Robert J. Conrad Jr. presided over the two-day trial, which ended on Tuesday.
Michael C. Scherck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
According to filed court documents and evidence presented at trial, on December 1, 2018, Moore robbed a Spectrum store located at 2222 South Boulevard, in Charlotte. Trial evidence established that Moore entered the store at approximately 8:00 p.m. and brandished a firearm to employees who were working at the time. Moore then ordered the employees to hand over cash from the registers and Moore fled the scene. Trial evidence established that Moore left behind an umbrella which he had used to prop the door open during the robbery. That umbrella was later tested by the FBI and found to contain DNA which was a match to Moore’s DNA.
According to trial evidence and witness testimony, on December 10, 2018, Moore returned to the same area and robbed the Publix Super Market also located at 2222 South Boulevard, in Charlotte. Trial evidence shows that Moore walked into the store, approached a store employee and demanded cash. During the robbery, Moore kept his hand in his pocket and threatened the employee, warning the victim to not “get shot.” The employee handed Moore cash and Moore fled the scene.
According to trial evidence, law enforcement identified Moore as the person who committed the two robberies. On December 12, 2018, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Moore’s residence, seizing a loaded firearm with an obliterated serial number and clothing that matched the description of the items Moore wore during the robberies. Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement determined that Moore had previously robbed two banks in Georgia and South Carolina and was on supervised release for those convictions when he carried out the robberies in Charlotte. As a convicted felon, Moore is prohibited to own a firearm or ammunition.
The jury convicted Moore of two counts of Hobbs Act robbery, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Moore remains in federal custody. A sentencing date has not been set.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the FBI and CMPD for their investigation of the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lawrence Cameron and Lambert Guinn of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte are in charge of the prosecution.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding His Massachusetts Employer over a 16-Year PeriodRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A California man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to embezzling over $1.2 million from his employer over a 16-year period.
Darrell Pike, 56, of Hesperia, Calif., pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Mark L. Wolf scheduled sentencing for Feb. 3, 2023. Pike was charged in May 2022.
Pike was the general manager of an Ontario, Calif. subsidiary of a supply and service company based in Wilmington, Mass. Between approximately 2005 and 2021, Pike prepared and submitted fraudulent invoices to his employer on behalf of a fake temporary staffing company, Consumer Information Systems (CIS), for staffing services CIS purportedly provided at his employer’s Ontario location. Pike added approving initials of company personnel to the invoices without their knowledge or consent. Through the fraudulent invoices, Pike caused the company to pay approximately $1,271,206 to CIS, which he deposited into a bank account he controlled.
The charge of mail fraud provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kriss Basil of Rollins’ Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
Caldwell County Kentucky Man Federally Charged with Multiple Counts of Sexually Exploiting ChildrenRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury returned a seven-count indictment today charging a Caldwell County Kentucky man with sexually exploiting two children and with distributing and possessing child pornography.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Jerry C. Templet, Jr. of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations made the announcement.
According to the indictment, William Guill, 47, of Princeton, Kentucky, was charged with four counts of sexual exploitation of children, one count of distribution of child pornography, one count of possessing child pornography, and one count of transfer of obscene material to a minor.
The defendant will make an initial court appearance on a later date before a U. S. Magistrate Judge of the U. S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky in Bowling Green. If convicted, Guill faces a minimum sentence of 25 years and a maximum sentence of 270 years in prison. Once released from prison, he faces a minimum of five years and a maximum of life of supervised release. Guill will be required to register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Kentucky State Police Electronic Crimes Branch.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney A. Spencer McKiness.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Butler County Man Admits Using Facebook Messenger to Sell MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A Butler County resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Daniel Dellich, Jr., age 47, formerly of Boyers, Pennsylvania 16020, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between March and August 2021, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted controlled buy operations from Dellich from the vicinity of his residence in Boyers, PA. The controlled buy operations revealed that Dellich used Facebook messenger to negotiate the sale of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. As a result, the FBI obtained a search warrant for Dellich’s Facebook account, which contained Dellich’s communications regarding the distribution of methamphetamine. On Aug. 26, 2021, state and federal law enforcement executed search warrants upon Dellich and his residence. The search of Dellich’s residence resulted in the seizure of methamphetamine. Following the search, an agent advised Dellich of his rights in writing, which Dellich waived. Thereafter, Dellich admitted to recently selling methamphetamine and to his intention to “re-up” that day if he did not have a probation meeting.
Judge Wiegand scheduled sentencing for Feb. 23, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court remanded into the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dellich.
Burlington Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, IA – Christopher Joseph Conrad, age 29 of Burlington, was sentenced on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, to 96 months in prison following his plea to a charge of Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
According to court documents, on January 9, 2022, law enforcement was dispatched to a residence in Burlington. The victim reported that Conrad was at the residence, in violation of a no contact order, in possession of a firearm, and threatening the victim. Upon arrival, officers found Conrad in possession of a loaded, semi-automatic handgun. Conrad had previously been convicted of assault charges against the victim and was in violation of an active no contact order at the time of the offense. Conrad has previous convictions for Domestic Abuse Assault Display or Use of a Weapon, Reckless Discharge of a Firearm, and Aggravated Robbery/Indicate Armed with Firearm.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Burlington Police Department investigated the case.
Targeting gun violence is a key part of combatting domestic violence and reducing violent crime. Domestic violence abusers with access to a gun are five times more likely to kill their partners, and in addition to their lethality, firearms are used by abusers to inflict fear, intimidation, and coercive control.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE), or the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence at 1-800-770-1650. Additional resources for victims and survivors of domestic violence can be found on the Resources page of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence website at https://ncadv.org/resources.
Bloomfield Man Guilty of Multiple Narcotics Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal jury in New Haven has found KENSTON HARRY, 41, of Bloomfield, guilty of drug trafficking offenses.
The trial before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton began on October 6 and the jury returned the guilty verdicts yesterday afternoon.
This matter stems from an investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force into a drug trafficking organization headed by Tajh Wiley, also known as Yung, of Norwalk. The investigation, which included a court-authorized wiretap of Wiley’s phone, revealed that Wiley conspired with Harry and others to distribute fentanyl, cocaine and marijuana throughout Connecticut.
Harry was arrested on June 9, 2021. In association with his arrest, investigators searched his Bloomfield residence and his Hartford business, Action Audio. The search of his residence revealed more than one kilogram of fentanyl, more than one kilogram of cocaine, kilogram presses and other items used to process and package narcotics for distribution, and other items. The search of Harry’s business resulted in the seizure of marijuana and other items.
The jury found Harry guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of cocaine, and marijuana; one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams of fentanyl; one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine; and one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. At sentencing he faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a term of imprisonment of life.
Judge Arterton scheduled sentencing for January 25, 2023. Harry is released on a $250,000 bond pending sentencing.
Harry, Wiley and six others were charged as a result of this investigation.
On July 26, 2022, a jury found Wiley guilty of multiple offenses. He awaits sentencing. As part of the investigation, law enforcement seized from Wiley jewelry valued at more than $100,000, and a 2021 Mercedes-Benz valued at approximately $146,000.
This investigation has been conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bridgeport Police Department, Fairfield Police Department, Norwalk Police Department, Stamford Police Department, Stratford Police Department, Yonkers (New York) Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service. The HIDTA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Norwalk, Stamford, Stratford, Milford and Danbury Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick J. Doherty, Robert S. Dearington, Margaret M. Donovan and Elena L. Coronado through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Billings man admits attempted coercion, enticement of boy for sex in undercover investigationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS — A Billings man who was arrested in an undercover investigation when he went to a location expecting to meet a boy for sex admitted to a coercion crime today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.
Kyle Ray Schwindt, 21, pleaded guilty to attempted coercion and enticement. Schwindt faces a mandatory minimum 10 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least five years of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Schwindt was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that on July 14, law enforcement conducted an undercover operation in Billings in which law enforcement assumed the identity of a fictitious 13-year-old male online. On that day, Schwindt contacted the fictitious profile. During those communications, law enforcement claimed to be a 13-year-old boy and told Schwindt of being 13 years old. The communications became increasing sexual in nature and led to plans to meet at a location in Billings. On July 15, Schwindt was arrested when he arrived at the meeting location and later admitted he traveled to the location to meet a 13-year-old boy for a sexual encounter.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zeno B. Baucus and Bryan T. Dake are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI and Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office.
This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.
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Baltimore Drug and “Ghost” Gun Trafficker SentencedRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Baltimore man was sentenced today to 136 months in federal prison for distributing fentanyl and heroin and for selling two “ghost” guns.
According to court documents, O'Neil Gayle, a.k.a. “Pat,” 33, pleaded guilty on June 30 to distributing nearly 150 grams of a fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl mixture in the Richmond metropolitan area and elsewhere within the Eastern District of Virginia. Between September 17, 2021 and November 18, 2021, Gayle sold to an undercover source an additional 148 grams of fentanyl (6,976 dosage units), 140 grams of heroin (1,400 dosage units), a 9mm semiautomatic ghost gun, and a second high-capacity ghost gun capable of accepting more than 28 rounds of ammunition. A ghost gun is a firearm that is not marked with a serial number and is often made using a 3-D printer, so there is no way to track its origins or owners.
On December 15, 2021, Gayle was arrested while in possession of 400 grams of fentanyl, 58 grams of cocaine base, commonly known as “crack,” 7 grams of cocaine hydrochloride, and $7000 in U.S. currency.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division; Gerald M. Smith, Chief of Richmond Police; and Charlie J. Patterson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge John A. Gibney, Jr.
Special assistance was provided by the DEA’s Baltimore District Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela Mastandrea-Miller prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:22-cr-055.
Additional Charge Filed Against Tennessee Man for Using Firearm in Violent Confrontation with FBI AgentsRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Tennessee man and a Warsaw, Mo., man have been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges stemming from their threats of violence against immigrants and the federal government, as well as an armed assault of FBI agents.
Bryan C. Perry, 37, of Clarksville, Tennessee, and Jonathan S. O’Dell, 32, of Warsaw, Mo., were charged in a six-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City on Tuesday, Oct. 18. The federal indictment replaces separate criminal complaints filed against both men on Oct. 7, 2022, and contains both the original charges against both men and an additional charge against Perry.
Perry and O’Dell remain in federal custody without bond following separate detention hearings in which the court ruled they pose a danger to the community.
Perry is now charged with one count of using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Perry is also charged, as in the prior criminal complaint, with one count of transmitting a threat across state lines to injure another person, one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and one count of forcibly assaulting an FBI agent with a deadly weapon.
O’Dell is charged in the indictment, as in the prior criminal complaint, with one count of transmitting a threat across state lines to injure another person and one count of unlawfully possessing a firearm. O’Dell allegedly was in possession of a Stevens 12-gauge shotgun while under a court order of protection.
On October 7, 2022, the FBI executed a search warrant at O’Dell’s residence and took O’Dell and Perry into custody. According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, federal agents approached the property in vehicles with red and blue lights and sirens activated. As the FBI approached, an agent utilized a loudspeaker on one of the vehicles, stating that they were with the FBI and that they had a search warrant for the residence. The FBI agent began to repeat the announcement, again stating that they were with the FBI, when gunshots were fired from a front window at the lead FBI vehicle. Several rounds hit the lead FBI vehicle. FBI agents did not return fire and, after the gunshots ceased, the FBI established a perimeter and began communicating with the persons inside the residence to come out. Perry exited the residence, began walking toward agents, and was detained.
When agents searched the residence, they found an Anderson AM-15 multi-caliber rifle in a bedroom near a broken window and approximately 10 spent shell casings. This is the firearm cited in Count Three of the federal indictment, which charges Perry with using a firearm in furtherance of the violent crime of assaulting a federal law enforcement officer.
Agents also found a Ruger 9mm pistol with an obliterated serial number, which is cited in Count Two of the indictment, which charges Perry with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Perry has a prior felony conviction for aggravated robbery.
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 Casey Clark and Trial Attorney Jacob Warren from the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. It was investigated by the FBI.
18 October 2022
“Used Car King of New York” pleads guilty in nationwide scheme to sell thousands of fraudulent Texas vehicle tagsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 51-year-old man who advertised himself as the “Used Car King of New York” has admitted to conspiring to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Octavian Ocasio pleaded guilty to conspiring with others residing in the Southern District of Texas to buying and selling thousands of fraudulent Texas-issued temporary buyer tags for cars outside of Texas without a legitimate vehicle purchase.
Ocasio and co-conspirators used the internet to buy and sell the fraudulent state-issued buyer tags and exchange proceeds from the illegal tag sales.
As part of his plea, Ocasio acknowledged he and his co-conspirators communicated through accounts on Gmail, Instagram and Facebook to receive and deliver fraudulent buyer tags to purchasers all over the United States, including New York, Florida and Washington, D.C.
He also admitted he and his co-conspirators advertised the state-issued buyer tags on social media platforms and received and shared fraud proceeds via electronic payment services such as Cash App and Zelle.
U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks Jr. will impose sentencing Feb. 6, 2023. At that time, Ocasio faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Ocasio has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Emmanuel Padilla Reyes aka Christian Hernandez Bonilla or Noel Rivera is still a fugitive in this case. The FBI is offering a $5,000 reward to anyone providing information that directly leads to his arrest. Those with information about the fugitive’s location should call 1-800-CALL-FBI.
The FBI conducted the investigation with assistance of Travis County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office, Houston Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police and New York City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Belinda Beek and Adam Goldman are prosecuting the case.
شركة لافارج تُقرّ بأنها مذنبة بالتآمر لتقديم دعم مادي لمنظمات إرهابية أجنبيةRead the Press Release
بروكلين، نيويورك - في وقت سابق اليوم، في محكمة اتحادية في بروكلين، نيويورك، أقرت شركة لافارج اس آ (Lafarge S.A.- Lafarge)، وهي شركة عالمية لتصنيع مواد البناء مقرها في فرنسا، وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت اس آ (Lafarge Cement Syria, S.A.- LCS)، وهي شركة تابعة لشركة لافارج مقرها في سوريا، أقرت بالذنب أمام هيئة قضائية وجهت لهما تهمة واحدة تتمثل في التآمر لتقديم الدعم المادي والموارد إلى تنظيم الدولة الإسلامية في العراق والشام (داعش) وجبهة النصرة (ANF)، وكلاهما من المنظمات الإرهابية الأجنبية التي حددتها الولايات المتحدة. وفور إقرار المتهمين بالذنب هذا الصباح، حكم قاضي المقاطعة الأمريكية ويليام ف. كونتز الثاني William) (F. Kuntz, II على المتهمين بشروط المراقبة ودفع غرامات مالية، بما في ذلك غرامات جنائية قدرها 90.78 مليون دولار ومصادرة مبلغ قدره 687 مليون دولار، بإجمالي 777.78 مليون دولار.
نشأت التهم عن مخطط المتهمين لدفع مبالغ مالية لداعش وجبهة النصرة مقابل الإذن بتشغيل مصنع إسمنت في سوريا من آب/أغسطس 2013 إلى تشرين الأول/أكتوبر 2014، ممّا مكن شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت من الحصول على ما يقرب من 70.30 مليون دولار من العائدات.
وقد أعلن هذا الإقرار بالذنب كل من بريون بيس (Breon Peace)، المدعي العام للولايات المتحدة بالمنطقة الشرقية من نيويورك؛ وليزا أو موناكو (Lisa O. Monaco)، نائبة وزير العدل للولايات المتحدة؛ وماثيو جي. أولسن (Matthew G. Olsen)، مساعد وزير العدل بقسم الأمن القومي بوزارة العدل؛ ومايكل دريسكول (Michael J. Driscoll)، مساعد المدير المسؤول، بمكتب التحقيقات الفيدرالي، مكتب نيويورك الميداني ,ومايكل ألفونسو (Michael Alfonso)، الوكيل الخاص المسؤول بالنيابة، من تحقيقات الأمن الداخلي بنيويورك؛ وكيشانت ل. سيوال (Keechant L. Sewell)، مفوض إدارة شرطة مدينة نيويورك(NYPD) .
صرح المدعي العام للولايات المتحدة السيد بيس قائلاً: "في خضم حرب أهلية، اتخذت شركة لافارج خيارًا لا يمكن تصوره بوضع أموال في أيدي داعش، إحدى أكثر المنظمات الإرهابية وحشية في العالم، حتى تتمكن من مواصلة بيع الإسمنت"، مضيفاً "لم تقم شركة لافارج بهذا الفعل فقط مقابل الحصول على إذن لتشغيل مصنع الإسمنت الخاص بها - وهو عمل سيء بما فيه الكفاية - ولكن أيضًا للاستفادة من علاقتها مع داعش وتحقيق مكاسب اقتصادية، والسعي للحصول على مساعدة داعش لإلحاق الضرر بمنافسي شركة لافارج مقابل خفض مبيعات شركة لافارج. اليوم تعترف شركة لافارج وتتحمل مسؤوليتها عن جريمتها الشنيعة، فلم يسبق قطّ أن اتُّهمت شركة بتقديم الدعم المادي والموارد لمنظمات إرهابية أجنبية، حيث تعكس هذه التهمة والقرار غير المسبوقين الجرائم المذهلة المرتكبة ويبرهنان على أن الشركات التي تتخذ إجراءات تتعارض مع مصالح أمننا القومي في انتهاك للقانون ستخضع للمساءلة".
"وكما يتضح من الإقرار بالذنب اليوم، كانت شركة لافارج مدفوعة بالجشع والمصلحة الذاتية عندما غضت الطرف عن الفظائع التي يرتكبها الإرهاب وتواطأت عن علم لتمويل منظمات إرهابية. ولا تختلف الشركات عن الأفراد - فإذا قمت بتمويل الإرهاب، فسوف تواجه العواقب. وصرح مساعد المدير المسؤول بمكتب التحقيقات الفيدرالي السيد دريسكول قائلاً: "يجب أن تكون النتيجة التي توصلنا إليها اليوم درساً للآخرين، فإذا كان أحدهم على استعداد لتمويل الأشرار، سواء أكان فردًا أو كيانًا أكبر، فإن فرقة العمل المشتركة لمكافحة الإرهاب التابعة لمكتب التحقيقات الفيدرالي وشركاءنا في إنفاذ القانون سيلتزمون بدون هوادة بحماية أمتنا وتقديم المذنبين أمام العدالة".
وقال ألفونسو(Alfonso)، الوكيل الخاص المسؤول بالنيابة، من تحقيقات الأمن الداخلي بنيويورك(HSI) "إن تحقيقات الأمن الداخلي تفتخر بالوقوف إلى جانب شركائنا في فرقة العمل المشتركة لمكافحة الإرهاب في هذه القضية الرائدة حيث نحاسب الشركات الخاصة على تواطؤها في أعمال القتل والدمار التي تسبب فيها داعش وجبهة النصرة؛ الحرب تغذيها الأموال، وقد دفعت شركة لافارج للإرهابيين الأموال، لتصب البنزين على النار، ولحماية أرباحها الخاصة." وأضاف قائلاً "إن العمل المتعمد مع منظمة إرهابية أجنبية مسؤولة عن مقتل عدد لا يحصى من الجنود الأمريكيين من أجل تحقيق مكاسب مالية يعدّ عملاً حقيراً يستحق أقسى العقوبات بموجب القانون. وهذا الإقرار بالذنب الذي صدر اليوم يعدّ تاريخياً إذ يوجه رسالة واضحة إلى الشركات في جميع أنحاء العالم بأننا لن نسمح لها بالسعي لتحقيق الأرباح عن طريق استغلال الأعمال الشريرة التي يرتكبها داعش. لن نترككم تشوهون ذكرى أولئك الذين قتلوا على يد هذه المجموعة الوحشية".
وقال سيوال، مفوض إدارة شرطة نيويورك، "إن الإقرار بالذنب الذي أُعلن اليوم لأمر تاريخيّ حيث يظهر أهمية عملنا المستمر لتعطيل هذا النوع من الإرهاب العابر للحدود والذي يشكل تهديدات كبيرة في الداخل وحول العالم". "مرة أخرى، تمت مواءمة علاقاتنا القوية مع إنفاذ القانون في هذا التحقيق للوصول إلى أقصى حد ممكن لضمان العدالة وحمايتنا من الأذى، أنا فخور للغاية اليوم بالعمل الذي قام به المحققون في شرطة نيويورك، والمدعي العام للولايات المتحدة بالمنطقة الشرقية وفرقة العمل المشتركة لمكافحة الإرهاب التابعة لمكتب التحقيقات الفيدرالي في نيويورك، وتحقيقات الأمن الداخلي، وكل شخص في الداخل والخارج ساهم في متابعة هذه القضية المهمة.
المتهمون تفاوضوا مع الجماعات المسلحة ودفعوا أموالاً للإرهابيين
في الفترة من أيار/مايو 2010 إلى أيلول/سبتمبر 2014، قامت شركة لافارج، من خلال شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت، بتشغيل مصنع إسمنت في منطقة الجلابية في شمال سوريا ("مصنع إسمنت الجلابية") الذي بنته شركة لافارج بتكلفة تقارب 680 مليون دولار. وبعد اندلاع الحرب الأهلية السورية في عام 2011، تفاوضت شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت على اتفاقيات لدفع أموال للفصائل المسلحة في الحرب الأهلية لحماية عمّال شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت، وضمان استمرار تشغيل معمل إسمنت الجلابية والحصول على ميزة اقتصادية تتفوق بها على منافسيها في سوق الإسمنت السورية.
وكما أوضح مدراء شركة لافارج في رسائل بريد إلكتروني أرسلت في تلك الفترة، كانت دوافعهم اقتصادية بحتة. اشترى مدراء شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت المواد الخام اللازمة لتصنيع الإسمنت من موردين خاضعين لسيطرة داعش، ودفعوا "تبرعات" شهرية للجماعات المسلحة، بما في ذلك داعش وجبهة النصرة، حتى يتمكن العمال والعملاء والموردون من عبور نقاط التفتيش التي تسيطر عليها الجماعات المسلحة على الطرق المحيطة بمصنع إسمنت الجلابية، ووافقوا في النهاية على دفع أموال لداعش بناءً على حجم الإسمنت الذي تبيعه شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت لعملائها، والذي شبّهه مدراء شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت بدفع "الضرائب".
المدعى عليهم تفاوضوا على اتفاقيات تقاسم العائدات مع داعش وسعوا لتحقيق ميزة اقتصادية
قام مدراء شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت عن قصد بصياغة اتفاقياتهم مع داعش لتعويض المنظمة الإرهابية بناءً على كمية الإسمنت التي تتمكن شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت من بيعها – مما يُعدّ بالفعل اتفاقية لتقاسم الإيرادات - لتحفيز المجموعة الإرهابية على التصرف بما يخدم المصلحة الاقتصادية لشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت.
وكشرط لإبرام اتفاقية تقاسم الإيرادات، التمس مدراء شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت مساعدة داعش لفرض تكاليف على المنافسين الذين يبيعون الإسمنت التركي الذي يتم استيراده إلى شمال سوريا، والذي كان يباع غالبًا بسعر أرخص من الإسمنت المنتج في مصنع الجلابية للإسمنت، وأوضح مدراء شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت للوسطاء الذين يتفاوضون مع داعش أنه في مقابل دفع شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت مبلغ 750 ليرة سورية لكل طن من الإسمنت الذي تبيعه، فإنهم يتوقعون أن يتخذ داعش إجراءات ضد منافسي شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت، إما عن طريق وقف بيع الإسمنت التركي المستورد المنافس في المناطق الخاضعة لسيطرة داعش، أو بفرض ضرائب على الإسمنت المنافس مما يسمح لشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت برفع أسعارها للإسمنت.
ومن آب/أغسطس 2013 إلى تشرين الأول/أكتوبر 2014، دفعت شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت إلى داعش وجبهة النصرة، من خلال وسطاء، ما يعادل حوالي 5.92 مليون دولار، وهي مدفوعات في شكل "تبرعات" شهرية ثابتة إلى داعش وجبهة النصرة، ومدفوعات للموردين الخاضعين لسيطرة داعش لشراء المواد الخام ومدفوعات مختلفة على أساس كمية الإسمنت التي تبيعها شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت؛ ودفعت شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت أيضًا ما يعادل 1.11 مليون دولار تقريبًا إلى أطراف ثالثة وسيطة للتفاوض مع داعش وجبهة النصرة ودفع مبالغ مالية لهما نيابةً عن شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت. بالإضافة إلى ذلك، عندما أخلَت شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت في نهاية المطاف معمل إسمنت الجلابية في أيلول/سبتمبر 2014، استحوذت داعش على الإسمنت الذي أنتجته شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت لتستمر في المؤامرة، وباعت داعش الإسمنت بأسعار كانت ستدر لداعش ما يقرب من 3.21 مليون دولار. ونتيجة لهذا المخطط، حصلت شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت على ما يقرب 70.30 مليون دولار كإجمالي إيرادات المبيعات من آب/أغسطس 2013 حتى 2014. وبلغت المكاسب التي حققها جميع المشاركين في المؤامرة، بما فيهم شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت والوسطاء والجماعات الإرهابية، حوالي 80.54 مليون دولار.
المدعى عليهم أخفوا مدفوعاتهم وزوّروا السجلات وغيّروا تواريخ العقود
كما أخفى مدراء شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت بنشاط مخططهم لتقديم الدعم المادي لداعش وجبهة النصرة. على سبيل المثال:
- طلب مدراء شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت من الوسطاء إنشاء كيانات تجارية بأسماء غير مرتبطة بشكل واضح بالوسطاء وقاموا بإنشاء فواتير بأوصاف مزيفة للخدمات المقدمة للوسيط لتقديمها إلى شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت؛
- قام مدراء شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت بصياغة مدفوعات تقاسم الإيرادات التي يقدمونها لداعش بحيث يدفع عملاء شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت إلى داعش، في حين أن شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت تعوض العملاء عن طريق خصم الأسعار التي تفرضها عليهم. وللتأكد من أن عملاء شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت لا يدفعون لداعش أقل من اللازم، وافقت شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت على تقديم تقارير مبيعات دورية لداعش، والتي يمكن لداعش استخدامها للتحقق من أن عملاء شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت يدفعون المبالغ المستحقة بموجب شروط اتفاقية شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت مع داعش؛
- لإخفاء هذه الترتيبات بشكل أكبر، حاول مدراء شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت مطالبة داعش بعدم إدراج اسم "لافارج" في الوثائق التي تكرّس الاتفاقيات الخاصة بهم وتنفيذها؛
- استخدم العديد من مدراء شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت المشاركين في المخطط عناوينهم للبريد الإلكتروني الشخصية بدلاً من عناوين البريد الإلكتروني للشركة، لتنفيذ المؤامرة؛
- في أكتوبر 2014، طلب مدراء شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت من الوسيط توقيع اتفاقية تُنهي اتفاقيته لتقديم الخدمات إلى لافارج سوريا للإسمنت كشرط لدفع المال لوسيط للتفاوض مع داعش والجماعات المسلحة الأخرى. وبشكل حاسم، قام مدراء شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت بتغيير تاريخ اتفاقية الإنهاء إلى 18 آب/أغسطس 2014، وهو تاريخ بعد فترة وجيزة من إصدار مجلس الأمن التابع للأمم المتحدة قرارًا يدعو الدول الأعضاء إلى حظر التعامل مع داعش وجبهة النصرة، للإيحاء زورًا بأن الوسيط لم يكن يتفاوض مع داعش نيابة عن شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت بعد قرار الأمم المتحدة.
وتم الاستحواذ على شركة لافارج من قبل منافس ("الشركة الوريثة") في صفقة أغلقت في 10 تموز/يوليو 2015. ولم يكشف مدراء لافارج للشركة الوريثة عن مدفوعات شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت إلى داعش وجبهة النصرة خلال اجتماعات العناية الواجبة قبل الاستحواذ، كما لم تقم الشركة الوريثة بإجراء العناية الواجبة قبل أو بعد الاستحواذ للتحقق من عمليات شركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت في سوريا، والتي كانت قد انتهت بحلول وقت إغلاق الصفقة. وبالإضافة إلى ذلك، لم تُبلغ شركة لافارج وشركة لافارج سوريا للإسمنت ولا الشركة الوريثة عن تلك السلوكيات أو تتعاون بشكل كامل في التحقيق الذي أجراه هذا المكتب.
قام بإجراء التحقيق فريق العمل المشترك لمكافحة الإرهاب التابع لمكتب التحقيقات الفيدرالي بنيويورك. ويقوم قسم الأمن القومي والجرائم الإلكترونية بالمكتب بإدارة قضية الحكومة. وقام بقيادة التحقيق والمقاضاة كل من المدعين العامين المساعدين للولايات المتحدة: ألون ليفشيتز (Allon Lifshitz)، وألكسندر أ. سولومون (Alexander A. Solomon)، وإيان سي ريتشاردسون (Ian C. Richardson)، وجوشوا هافيتز (Joshua Hafetz)، بمساعدة المدعين العامين المساعدين للولايات المتحدة: أرتيميس ليكاكيس (Artemis Lekakis)، و ج. ماثيو هاجانز J. (Matthew Haggans)، ولوران أ. بومان (Lauren A. Bowman)، ومحاميا الادعاء: بريجت بهلنغ Bridget) (Behling، وجنفير ليفي (Jennifer Levy)، من قسم مكافحة الإرهاب في شعبة الأمن الوطني.
وقدم مكتب الشؤون الدولية التابع لوزارة العدل مساعدة بالغة الأهمية في هذه القضية. كما تعرب الوزارة عن تقديرها للتعاون الكبير والمساعدة المعتبرة التي قدمتها السلطات الفرنسية والمغربية واللبنانية.
Young man indicted for transporting fentanyl pills disguised as oxycodoneRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 19-year-old Laredo resident has been charged for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 1.42 kilograms of fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, a federal grand jury returned the two-count indictment against Ivan Eleodoro Garcia. He is expected to appear for his arraignment before a U.S. magistrate judge in the near future.
The complaint originally filed in the case alleges that on Sept. 29, Garcia drove a 2014 Ford Taurus sedan into the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint on I-35 north of Laredo. Three, a K-9 unit allegedly alerted law enforcement to the presence of concealed humans or narcotics at the rear of the vehicle.
Authorities conducted a search and allegedly discovered a custom-installed hidden compartment between the trunk and passenger area of the sedan. The charges also allege they discovered 13 bags containing 1.42 kilograms of blue pills. Law enforcement allegedly believed the pills were oxycodone hydrocholoride due to an embossed letter M on each pill. However, a field test later revealed the pills were counterfeit and contained fentanyl, according to the charges.
If convicted, Garcia faces up to life in prison a possible $10 million maximum fine.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of BP. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul A. Harrison is prosecuting the case.
#OnePillCanKill
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Woodland Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute and Possess MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A former resident of Clearfield County pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Cassandra Wallace, age 37, of Woodland, PA, pleaded guilty to Counts Two and Eleven of the Superseding Indictment before Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, from July 2019 to June 2020, Wallace did conspire to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Further, on December 18, 2019, Wallace did distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for February 23, 2023. The law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000 or both, for Count Two, and a minimum sentence of 5 years in a prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of $5,000,000, or both, for Count Eleven. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Brolin. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Bureau of Police, and other local law enforcement agencies.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Washington man indicted on charges involving sexual abuse of a minorRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Nathanial James Davis, formerly of Marysville, Washington, is facing charges that accuse him of traveling across the country to have sex with a minor in Barbour County, West Virginia, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Davis, 33, was indicted today on one count of “Interstate Travel with Intent to Engage in Sexual Act with a Minor,” one count of “Possession of Child Pornography,” and one count of “Commission of a Felony Offense Involving a Minor by a Person Required to Register as a Sex Offender.” Davis, a registered sex offender, is accused of traveling to West Virginia to engage in sexual conduct with a minor and having child pornography on his phone. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in April and May 2022 in Barbour County and elsewhere.
Davis faces up to 30 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the interstate travel charge. He faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the child pornography charge and faces 10 years in prison for the final charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Walton County Man Sentenced to 15 Years Federal Prison for Possession of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Joseph Fletcher Lee, Jr., 47, of Defuniak Springs, Florida, was sentenced last week to serve a mandatory minimum term of fifteen years in federal prison after pleading guilty to the charges of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The sentence was announced by Jason R. Coody, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
“Communities throughout our district are plagued by methamphetamine distribution,” stated U.S. Attorney Coody. “We are committed to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and aggressively prosecute drug traffickers who distribute these addictive, controlled substances. This sentence is further proof of this resolve.”
On October 14, 2021, law enforcement executed two federal search warrants at Lee’s residence and property located in Walton County, Florida. Inside the residence, law enforcement located and seized approximately 466.5 grams of methamphetamine, a digital scale, and approximately $23,419 in U.S. Currency.
Lee’s imprisonment will be followed by ten years of supervised release.
The case resulted from a joint investigation by the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Ryan Love.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
United States Attorney's Office Implements Election Day Program to Stop Fraud and Protect Voting RightsRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Will Thompson announced today that Assistant United States Attorney Erik S. Goes will lead the efforts of his office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election. AUSA Goes has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Southern District of West Virginia, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” Thompson said. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
“The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy,” Thompson said. “We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA Goes will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at (304) 340-2395 or (304) 345-2200.”
The Southern District of West Virginia also has an online option for reporting complaints: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdwv/report-corruption. The West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office through its Election Division offers a form for filing elections complaints as well: https://sos.wv.gov/media/424/electionscomplaintformpdf.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (304) 346-2300.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov.
“Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate,” Thompson said. “It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.
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United States Attorney Kavanaugh Appoints Dedicated Officials to Answer Western District of Virginia Election ComplaintsRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. -United States Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election. Assistant United States Attorneys Lena Busscher in the Abingdon Division, Michael Baudinet in the Roanoke Division, and Ronald M. Huber in the Charlottesville Division have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEO) for the Western District of Virginia. In that capacity they are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to threats of violence. The Department of Justice continues to work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process,” United States Attorney Kavanaugh said.
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
“The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to vote can exercise that right if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt the voting system are brought to justice,” United States Attorney Kavanaugh said. “To respond to complaints of voting rights concerns during the upcoming election, we must ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities.”
AUSA/DEOs Busscher, Baudinet, and Huber will be on duty in this District while the polls are open and may be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 540-857-2250.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day. The local FBI field office may be reached by the public at 804-261-1044.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws maybe made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .
United States Attorney Kavanaugh added, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
United States Attorney Announces Election Day ProgramRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Timothy T. Duax announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Daniel Tvedt will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election. AUSA Tvedt has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Northern District of Iowa, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney Duax said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
United States Attorney Duax stated that: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Tvedt will be on duty in the Cedar Rapids area while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at 319-363-6333. AUSA Ron Timmons will be on duty in the Sioux City area and can be reached at 712-255-6011.”
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 402-493-8688.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/.
United States Attorney Duax said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
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USAO-KS Announces Election Day ProgramRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Duston Slinkard announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Jared Maag will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election. AUSA Maag has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the U.S. Attorney’s Office - District of Kansas, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
U.S. Attorney Slinkard said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
U.S. Attorney Slinkard stated that, “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Maag will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (785) 295-2850.”
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in field offices and resident agencies throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 816-512-8200.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .
U.S. Attorney Slinkard said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
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U.S. Department of Justice announces grants totaling nearly $3 million in the Southern District of GeorgiaRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: The U.S. Department of Justice has announced more than $2.8 million in grants awarded to agencies and entities to support law enforcement and public safety initiatives in the Southern District of Georgia.
These federal grants include funding for the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, a key component of the Department of Justice’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime, and funding from the Office of Community-Oriented Policing (COPS), said David H. Estes, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
“These grant awards will assist law enforcement agencies throughout the Southern District in our continued fight against violent crime, while also supporting communities and agencies allied in our efforts to improve the safety of our neighborhoods,” said U.S. Attorney Estes.
The end-of-fiscal-year 2022 PSN grant to the Southern District of $100,665, administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance through Georgia’s Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, will distribute funding to Savannah, Augusta, and Brunswick, the three most populous cities in the Southern District, in collaboration with local public safety agencies to help achieve reductions in violent crime, including gun homicides.
“Reducing violence and sustaining those reductions will require strong partnerships between criminal justice agencies and community stakeholders and a shared commitment to the safety and well-being of every community member,” said Office of Justice Programs Deputy Assistant Attorney General Maureen Henneberg. “The investments we are making through Project Safe Neighborhoods will enable every stakeholder to play a part in building safer and healthier communities.”
Additional DOJ grants awarded during the regular end-of-fiscal-year funding cycle include:
Office of Community-Oriented Policing (COPS) Hiring Program:
- City of Swainsboro, $316,653
COPS School Violence Prevention Program:
- Lincoln County School District, $274,065
Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Human Trafficking:
- Tharros Place, Inc., Savannah, $750,000
Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) grants through the Adult Drug Court Discretionary Grant Program:
- Bulloch County Board of Commissioners, $739,172
BJA – STOP School Violence Prevention Program:
- New Bethlehem Community Center, Inc., Augusta, $333,333
BJA – The Kevin and Avonte Program: Reducing Injury and Death of Missing Individuals with Dementia and Developmental Disabilities:
- Liberty County, $120,000
BJA – The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program:
- City of Savannah, $126,177
- Augusta/Richmond County, $52,106
- Glynn County, $24,527
- Liberty County, $14,242
- City of Waycross, $10,022
BJA – Body-worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program:
- Liberty County, $53,940
- City of Thomson, $9,825
More information on the implementation of these grants is available from the individual recipient agencies, and from the U.S. Department of Justice grants information page at justice.gov/grants.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Reaches Settlement with New Jersey Transit to Ensure Equal Access for Individuals with Disabilities at Five Intercity Rail StationsRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey has reached a settlement with New Jersey Transit Corporation (NJ Transit) to resolve findings that its intercity rail stations are not accessible to individuals with disabilities in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
“This Office is committed to ending unlawful barriers to inclusion and equality in our society,” U.S. Attorney Sellinger said. “For too long, people with disabilities have been deprived of equal access to intercity rail stations operated by NJ Transit. In ways large and small, people with disabilities were denied full access to transportation services – whether it was the lack of access to restrooms, no signs, bad ramps, poor access to elevators, or that parking spaces were just too small for those who needed wheelchair access. Through this resolution, we are holding NJ Transit to its obligation to provide accessible transportation services to all. To their credit, NJ Transit has swiftly recognized these deficiencies and already begun to bring its intercity rail stations into compliance with the ADA.”
Under the agreement, New Jersey Transit has committed to make five intercity rail stations – Newark Penn, Princeton Junction, MetroPark, Trenton, and New Brunswick – accessible to individuals with disabilities. New Jersey Transit must modify multiple portions of the rail stations and their access points, including physical modifications to multiple platforms, waiting areas, parking lots, and restrooms.
This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office Civil Rights Division, which U.S. Attorney Sellinger created in 2022. The Division’s sole focus is to enforce federal civil rights laws, including the ADA, with the goal of protecting and upholding the civil rights of those in our community. Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may file a complaint with the Civil Rights Division at http://www.justice.gov/usao-nj/civil-rights-enforcement/complaint or call the U.S. Attorney’s Office Civil Rights Hotline at (855) 281-3339. Additional information about the ADA can be found at www.ada.gov, or by calling the Department of Justice’s toll-free ADA information line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TDD).
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael E. Campion, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Civil Rights Division.
U.S. Attorney’s Office Hosts Roundtable on Sexual Harassment in HousingRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division hosted a roundtable today for community organizations to discuss the problem of sexual harassment in housing, U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino announced. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is asking anyone who has witnessed or experienced sexual harassment by a landlord, property manager, maintenance worker, or anyone with control over housing to report that conduct to the Department of Justice.
“Sexual harassment in housing is underreported and hard to detect,” U.S. Attorney Restaino said. “Landlords and others with control over housing often commit egregious violations of the Fair Housing Act by using their power over tenants to extort sexual acts, or even commit assaults. Our office is committed to uncovering such intolerable violations and vigorously enforcing the law.”
The Department of Justice, through the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Civil Rights Division, enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act.
Today’s roundtable was hosted as part of the Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative (https://www.justice.gov/crt/sexual-harassment-housing-initiative), an effort to combat sexual harassment in housing across the country. The Justice Department’s initiative seeks to identify barriers to reporting sexual harassment in housing, increase awareness of the Justice Department’s enforcement efforts, and collaborate with federal, state, and local partners to increase reporting and help people who have experienced sexual harassment quickly and easily connect with federal resources. Roundtable discussions like the one U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino hosted today are one way to increase awareness and build strong partnerships in the community to combat the problem together.
Launched in 2017, the Initiative has filed 26 lawsuits across the country alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $9.6 million in damages for harassment victims. The Justice Department’s investigations frequently uncover sexual harassment that has been ongoing for years. Many individuals do not know that being sexually harassed by a housing provider can violate federal law or that the Department of Justice may be able to help.
The Department encourages anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, to submit a report online or contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona by calling (602) 528-7299, visiting https://www.justice.gov/usao-az, or by emailing [email protected].
Individuals may also file a complaint alleging harassment or discrimination in housing with the Department of Housing and Urban Development through HUD’s website or by calling (800) 669-9777.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-182_Sexual Harassment in Housing Roundtable
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
U.S. Attorney's Office Announces Election Day ProgramRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – United States Attorney Dena J. King announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Michael Savage in Charlotte, and Don Gast in Asheville, will lead the efforts of their Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election.
AUSAs Michael Savage and Don Gast have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEOs) for the Western District of North Carolina, and, in that capacity, they are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney King. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
U.S. Attorney King stated that, “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.”
In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSAs/DEOs Savage and Gast will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. AUSA Savage can be reached by the public in Charlotte at 704-344-6222, and AUSA Gast can be reached in Asheville at 828-271-4661.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 704-672-6100.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C. by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/.
U.S. Attorney King said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
U.S. Attorney Young Announces District Election OfficerRead the Press Release
CONCORD - United States Attorney Jane E. Young announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Seth R. Aframe will lead the efforts of her office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election. AUSA Aframe has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of New Hampshire, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney Young said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
United States Attorney Young stated that: “The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the right to vote can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Aframe will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 603-230-2503.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 857-386-2000 or at tips.fbi.gov.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ .
United States Attorney Young said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
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U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam Announces $554,355 in Justice Department Grants to Support Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam announced that the Department of Justice has awarded $554,355 to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program in the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Funding will support community efforts to address gun crime and serious violence in the district. The grants to Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency are just a few of the awards being made to state and local agencies across the country. Funds are administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, which is part of the Department’s Office of Justice Programs.
Launched two decades ago as an evidence-based and community-oriented response to serious gun crime, Project Safe Neighborhoods, known as PSN, is a key component of the Department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime, outlined by Deputy Attorney General Monaco in May 2021. The PSN approach is guided by four key 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 of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.
“The Justice Department’s grants provide resources for our state and local law partners to help protect individuals and communities from violent crime,” said Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta. “Through Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department is taking a comprehensive approach, recognizing that we cannot simply arrest our way out of this problem—the resources in these grants will help our state and local partners reduce gun violence through increased community trust and investments in community-based initiatives like violence intervention programs.”
“These funds will continue to help reduce violence in our communities across the Middle District of Pennsylvania,” said U.S. Attorney Karam. “We remain focused on prioritizing our violent crime reduction efforts through the PSN initiative, including prevention and treatment to stop incidents before they start.”
PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies and community organizations. The programs’ emphasis on community engagement, prevention and intervention measures, focused and strategic enforcement, and measurement and accountability has helped achieve overall reductions in violent crime, including gun homicides, in neighborhoods where PSN strategies have been implemented.
“Over its two-decade history, Project Safe Neighborhoods has evolved to meet the complex challenges of community violence by enlisting the insights and expertise of local partners and by relying on the latest evidence,” said BJA Director Karhlton F. Moore. “We are proud to support our U.S. Attorneys and their allies in their critical work to curb violent crime and build the mutual trust necessary to ensure lasting success.”
The awards announced above are being made as part of the regular end-of-fiscal year cycle. More information about awards under PSN and other OJP grants can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard Announces $168,085 Justice Department Grant to Support Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
[TOPEKA, KAN.] – U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard announced that the Department of Justice has awarded $168,085 to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program in U.S. Attorney’s Office – District of Kansas. Funding will support community efforts to address the epidemic of gun crime and serious violence in the district. The grant, to Wichita State University, is one of a number of awards being made to state and local agencies across the country. Funds are administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, part of the Department’s Office of Justice Programs.
Launched two decades ago as an evidence-based and community-oriented response to serious gun crime, Project Safe Neighborhoods, known as PSN, is a key component of the Department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime, outlined by Deputy Attorney General Monaco in May 2021. The PSN approach is guided by four key 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 of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.
“The Department of Justice sees great value in investing resources into violent crime prevention initiatives that encourage people to steer away from criminal activity instead of solely allowing for funding to bring perpetrators to justice after someone has been injured or killed” said U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office – District of Kansas is grateful to Wichita State University for agreeing to take the lead on this collaborative effort to make our communities safer places to live.”
“Reducing violence and sustaining those reductions will require strong partnerships between criminal justice agencies and community stakeholders and a shared commitment to the safety and well-being of every community member,” said OJP Deputy Assistant Attorney General Maureen Henneberg. “The investments we are making through Project Safe Neighborhoods will enable every stakeholder to play a part in building safer and healthier communities.”
PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies and community organizations. The programs’ emphasis on community engagement, prevention and intervention measures, focused and strategic enforcement, and measurement and accountability has helped achieve overall reductions in violent crime, including gun homicides, in neighborhoods where PSN strategies have been implemented.
“Over its two-decade history, Project Safe Neighborhoods has evolved to meet the complex challenges of community violence by enlisting the insights and expertise of local partners and by relying on the latest evidence,” said BJA Director Karhlton F. Moore. “We are proud to support our U.S. Attorneys and their allies in their critical work to curb violent crime and build the mutual trust necessary to ensure lasting success.”
The awards announced above are being made as part of the regular end-of-fiscal year cycle. More information about awards under PSN and other OJP grants can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney Announces Results of Multi-Faceted Strategy to Combat Fraud Related to COVID-19Read the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the results achieved by the Middle District of Florida’s efforts to combat fraud related to COVID-19 during fiscal year 2022, ending September 30, 2022. Those efforts have included complementary actions by the Criminal, Asset Recovery, and Civil Divisions, along with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with its law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of government programs established to provide relief for those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Handberg. “Those who seek to exploit these programs and further harm victims should beware. We will prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.”
On the criminal-enforcement front, the United States Attorney’s Office and federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies joined together in March 2020 to form the Middle District of Florida COVID-19 Fraud Task Force to identify, investigate, and prosecute fraud related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Since its inception, the task force has prosecuted more than 40 defendants for fraud schemes designed to exploit federal programs created or expanded to address the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”), Economic Injury Disaster Loans (“EIDL”), Unemployment Insurance (“UI”), the Main Street Lending Program (“MSLP”), and the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (“ERAP”). These cases and matters involve diverse schemes, from traditional healthcare fraud involving COVID-19 programs, to violent gangs using unemployment insurance fraud proceeds to operate their narcotics businesses. These defendants collectively sought to defraud the United States of over $43 million. Over thirty of those defendants have already been found guilty, while prosecution remains pending against nine defendants. (See chart for criminal case details.)
For example, on September 15, 2022, Marqus Johnson (40, Tampa) pleaded guilty to a 9-count Information charging him with bank fraud and illegal monetary transactions. Johnson formed and operated two corporate entities—All American Health, LLC and Next Level Health & Transportation, LLC—that purportedly were engaged in health care-related transportation services. In April and June 2020 and January 2021, Johnson use false and fraudulent representations to apply for a total of seven SBA-backed loans (one PPP loan and six EIDL) and received loan funding in connection with three of the loan applications. Based on his false representations, Johnson fraudulently obtained $544,900, including a $375,000 PPP loan.
In another matter, Julio Lugo (45, Davenport), a convicted felon on federal supervised release, conspired with others to steal nearly $6 million from the SBA’s PPP and EIDL programs and launder the proceeds of those stolen funds. Lugo pleaded guilty conspiracy to commit money laundering and was sentenced to more than nine years in federal prison on July 28, 2022. The court also imposed a forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $4.4 million and entered an order of restitution in the amount of $4.8 million.
The Middle District of Florida has been at the forefront of addressing the complex issues that arise out of investigating and charging frauds relating to new government programs. The Fort Myers Division, for example, was the first office in the country to take a COVID-19 fraud case to trial in United States v. Casey Crowther. Crowther was found guilty and sentenced to more than three years in federal prison. The Orlando Division meanwhile handled the country’s first COVID-19 fraud-related extradition in United States v. Don V. Cisternino. Cisternino recently pleaded guilty to wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and illegal monetary transactions related to his scheme to secure more than $7.2 million in emergency funds through a PPP loan.
Further, the Asset Recovery Division and federal seizing agencies have completed the forfeiture of more than $14.3 million of EIDL, UI, and PPP funds that were fraudulently obtained, depriving the fraudsters of their ill-gotten gains and recovering the proceeds for the victims. More than $8.5 million in additional pandemic fraud proceeds have been seized and are pending civil or criminal forfeiture.
The Attorney General has 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. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Through the PPP, the federal government authorized over $600 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the PPP. The EIDL program provides economic relief to small businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. The MSLP provided support to small and medium-sized businesses and their employees across the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic. UI programs provided unemployment benefits to eligible workers who became unemployed through no fault of their own.
The criminal cases charged by the Middle District of Florida COVID-19 Fraud Task Force have been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Secret Service, Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigation, Department of Labor—Office of Inspector General, U.S. Postal Service, Federal Housing Finance Agency, Small Business Administration, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation—Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery, Federal Reserve Board – Office of Inspector General, Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation, the Tampa Police Department, the Orlando Police Department, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, the Winter Park Police Department, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys throughout the Middle District of Florida.
The Department of Justice needs the public’s assistance in remaining vigilant and reporting suspected fraudulent activity. To report suspected fraud, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) at (866) 720-5721 or file an online complaint at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/webform/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. Complaints filed will be reviewed at the NCDF and referred to federal, state, local, or international law enforcement or regulatory agencies for investigation.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
Defendant(s) (Age)
Charge(s)
Max. Imprisonment
Type of Fraud*
Intended Loss
Amount
Tampa Division
Joseph Abdo (39)
Wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
Illegal monetary transactions
Maximum Prison Term: 10 Years
PPP
$500k
Jorge Gutierrez Echeverria (33)
Wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
EIDL
$150k
Alexander Leszczynski (22)
Wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
Bank fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 30 Years
Illegal monetary transactions
Maximum Prison Term: 10 Years
PPP
$200k
Charles Cunningham (72)
Bank fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 30 years
PPP
$800K
These COVID Fraud cases from the Tampa Division are being handled by AUSAs Rachel Jones, Greg Pizzo, Candace Rich, Diego Novaes, and Jennifer Peresie
Orlando Division
Brian Blake (30)
Possession of device-making equipment
Maximum Prison Term: 15 Years
Access device fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 10 Years
Aggravated identity theft
Maximum: Prison Term: Two Years Consecutive
PPP/UI
$832k
Emmet Bowens (53)
Wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
Illegal monetary transactions
Maximum Prison Term: 10 Years
PPP
$740k
These COVID Fraud cases from the Orlando Division are being handled by AUSAs Chauncey Bratt and Amanda Daniels
Jacksonville Division
Jacob Byrd
Wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
PPP
$20K
This COVID Fraud case from the Jacksonville Division is being handled by AUSA Kevin Frein
Fort Myers Division
Venera Price (45)
Mail fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
ERAP
$82K
This COVID Fraud case from the Fort Myers Division is being handled by AUSA Yolande Viacava
Ocala Division
Lavelle Harris (36)
Wire Fraud (14 counts)
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years per count
PPP
$1.2M
This COVID Fraud case from the Ocala Division is being handled by AUSA Hannah Nowalk
Adjudicated Cases
Tampa Division
Keith Nicoletta (49)
Conspiracy to commit money laundering
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
PPP
$1.9M
Rosenide Venant (37)
Conspiracy to commit money laundering
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
EIDL/PPP
$413k
Keaujay Hornsby (26)
Racketeering conspiracy
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
Aggravated identity theft
Maximum Prison Term: Two Years Consecutive
Access device fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 10 Years
UI
$3M
Kareem Spann (27)
Racketeering conspiracy
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
Aggravated identity theft
Maximum Prison Term: Two Years Consecutive
Access device fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 10 Years
UI
$3M
Melinda Hernandez (33)
Conspiracy to commit wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 5 Years
Wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
Aggravated identity theft
Maximum: Prison Term: Two Years Consecutive
UI
$1.5M
Richard Simpkins (47)
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 30 Years
Illegal monetary transactions
Maximum Prison Term: 10 Years
PPP
$1.9M
Steve Moodie (33)
Conspiracy to commit wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 5 Years
Wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
Aggravated identity theft
Maximum: Prison Term: Two Years Consecutive
UI
$1.5M
Marqus Willard Johnson
Bank fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 30 Years
Money laundering
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
PPP
$500K
These COVID Fraud cases from the Tampa Division are being handled by AUSAs Rachel Jones, Tiffany Fields, John Michelich, and Greg Pizzo
Orlando Division
Daniel Johnson (34)
Conspiracy to commit wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
Aggravated identity theft
Maximum Prison Term: Two Years Consecutive
Unlawful transfer of firearm
Maximum Prison Term: 5 Years
UI
$2.3M
Joel Greenberg (37)
Conspiracy to commit wire fraud and other offenses while on pretrial release
Maximum Prison Term: 15 Years
EIDL
$430k
Teresa McIntyre (55)
Conspiracy to commit wire fraud and other offenses
Maximum Prison Term: 5 Years
EIDL
$730k
Don Cisternino (46)
Wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
Illegal Monetary Transactions
Maximum Prison Term: 10 Years
Aggravated Identity Theft
Maximum Prison Term: Two Years Consecutive
PPP
$7.2M
This COVID Fraud cases from the Orlando Division are being handled by U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg and AUSAs Chauncey Bratt, Amanda Daniels, Jennifer Harrington, and Dana Hill
Fort Myers Division
Daniel Joseph Tisone (34)
Wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
Bank fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 30 Years
Money laundering
Maximum Prison Term: 10 Years
Aggravated Identity Theft
Maximum Prison Term: 2 Years Consecutive
Possession of Ammunition by a Prohibited Person
Maximum Prison Term: 10 Years
PPP/EIDL/MSLP
$2.6M
Liliana Gonzalez (31)
Wire fraud
Maximum Prison Term: 20 Years
PPP
$169k
These COVID Fraud cases from the Fort Myers Division are being handled by AUSAs Trent Reichling and Jesus M. Casas
Sentenced Cases
Tampa Division
Louis Thornton, III (63)
Wire Fraud
Sentence Imposed: 42 months in federal prison
EIDL/PPP
$815k
Kary Stevenson (48)
Corey Quinn (35)
Conspiracy to commit access device fraud and aggravated identity theft
Sentence Imposed: 5 years, 10 months in federal prison (Stevenson)
Sentence Imposed:7 years in federal prison (Quinn)
UI
$1M
Bridgitte Keim (52)
Bank fraud
Sentence Imposed: 2 years in federal prison
PPP
$588k
Wayne Ganaway (47)
Conspiracy to commit wire fraud
Sentence Imposed: 4 years in federal prison
EIDL
$300k
Eriaius Bentley (29)
Racketeering conspiracy, aggravated identity theft, access device fraud
Sentence Imposed: One year in federal prison
UI
$3M
Rolanda Wingfield (39)
Access device fraud, Aggravated identity theft
Sentenced Imposed: 3 years in federal prison
UI
$135k
Tywon Spann (25)
Racketeering conspiracy, aggravated identity theft, access device fraud
Sentence Imposed: 6 years and 9 months in federal prison
UI
$3M
Randy Jones (34)
Wire fraud, aggravated identity theft
Sentence Imposed: 5 years and 1 month in federal prison
EIDL/UI
$250k
Julio Lugo (45)
Conspiracy to commit money laundering
Sentence Imposed: 7 years and 6 months in federal prison
EIDL/PPP
$4.4M
These COVID Fraud cases from the Tampa Division were handled by AUSAs Rachel Jones, Greg Pizzo, Tiffany Fields, Diego Novaes, and SAUSA Chris Poor
Orlando Division
Jacquavius Smith (21)
Possession of short-barreled rifle; felon in possession of firearm; and aggravated identity theft
Sentence Imposed: 7 years, 1 month in federal prison
PPP
$10k
Johnson Eustache (40)
Wire fraud
Sentence Imposed: 5 years in federal prison
EIDL/PPP
$2.2M
Joseph Harrison (43)
Conspiracy to commit wire fraud
Sentence Imposed: 12 months in federal prison
UI
$2.1M
Tomas Ziupsnys (39)
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud; bank fraud; aggravated identity theft
Sentence Imposed: 5 years in federal prison
PPP
$2M
Holly Urban (36)
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud
Sentence Imposed: 30 months in federal prison
PPP
$1.5M
These COVID Fraud cases from the Orlando Division were handled by AUSAs John Gardella, Amanda Daniels, Chauncey Bratt, Emily Chang, and Jennifer Harrington
Fort Myers Division
Casey Crowther (36)
Bank fraud, false statement to a financial institution, illegal monetary transaction
Sentence Imposed: 3 years, 1 month in federal prison
PPP
$2.7M
Anthony Bruey (36)
Amber Bruey (35)
Conspiracy to commit wire fraud
Wire fraud
Conspiracy to commit money laundering
Illegal monetary transactions
Sentence Imposed:
Anthony Bruey: 4 years, 3 months in federal prison
Amber Bruey: 4 years in federal prison
PPP/EIDL
$881k
Edrica Leann Watson (30)
False statement to a lending institution
Sentence Imposed: 15 months in federal prison
PPP
$392k
These COVID Fraud cases from the Fort Myers Division were handled by AUSA Trent Reichling and AUSA Jesus M. Casas
Types of Fraud*
Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
Unemployment Insurance (UI)
Main Street Lending Program (MSLP)
Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)
Two Sentenced for Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Michael Aponte, 32, of Pennellville, New York, and Rawy Correa-Perez, 31, of Avon Park, Florida, were sentenced today by United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and possession with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine. Aponte received a sentence of 130 months’ imprisonment with a five-year term of supervised release to follow. Correa-Perez received a sentence of 97 months’ imprisonment with a five-year term of supervised release to follow. There is no parole in the federal system.
Both Aponte and Correa-Perez were found guilty by a jury on May 19, 2022. At trial, Douglas County Nebraska deputies testified that on February 26, 2021, they stopped a vehicle driven by Aponte for a traffic violation. Correa-Perez was a passenger in the vehicle. During the contact with Aponte and Correa-Perez, deputies noted several indicators of criminal behavior. Deputies deployed “Bezos,” a certified drug detection canine, to perform a sniff around the vehicle. Bezos indicated to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. Deputies searched the vehicle and found 34 pounds of cocaine in the spare tire.
The Drug Enforcement Administration assisted in the investigation. DEA special agents testified to obtaining and analyzing electronic data that was obtained from Apple Inc. for both Aponte and Correa-Perez. The electronic data contained photographs consistent with the drug trade. Special agents also provided expert testimony, including that the cocaine had a value of approximately $390,000.
In addition, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Forensic Services Bureau assisted in the analysis of both the cocaine and fingerprints that were obtained from the cocaine packaging.
This case was investigated by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Two Hudson County Men Indicted for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A federal grand jury today indicted two men in connection with the armed robbery of a bank in Union City, New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Juan Jimenez, 23, of Union City, New Jersey, and Nicholas Seda-Corales, 24, of West New York, New Jersey, were previously each charged by complaint with one count of bank robbery and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Both individuals are in custody. They will be arraigned at a date to be determined.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On April 8, 2022, Jimenez and Seda-Corales entered a bank in Union City, New Jersey, dressed in dark clothing and wearing face masks. Jimenez drew a handgun, aimed it into the teller area, and jumped over the teller counter. Seda-Corales made his way toward the rear of the bank to prevent bystanders from exiting through a back door. Video footage depicts Jimenez searching several drawers in the teller area before jumping back over the counter and fleeing the bank with Seda-Corales. Law enforcement officers later executed a search warrant at Jimenez’s apartment and recovered three handguns and clothing consistent with that worn by Jimenez and Seda-Corales during the robbery.
The bank robbery charges carry a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The brandishing a firearm during the bank robbery charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison, which must be served consecutive to the other counts.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark, with the investigation, leading to the charges.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney John F. Mezzanotte of the General Crimes Unit Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces Celebrates 40th AnniversaryRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) was created by Presidential Order four decades ago. On Oct. 14, 1982, in the Great Hall of the Department of Justice building, President Ronald Reagan announced a new coordinated federal government effort bringing together prosecutors and law enforcement agencies to attack the command and control elements of the drug trafficking organizations responsible for moving massive quantities of illicit narcotics into the country.
The White House directed that the OCDETF’s top priority would be to disrupt the sales and distribution networks of the traffickers. Some of the department’s most notable successes against drug cartels have resulted from OCDETF coordinated investigations and prosecutions. OCDETF was instrumental in taking down the powerful Colombian cartels of the 1980s; the notorious and violent Mexican cartels such as the Tijuana, Juarez and Gulf Cartels in the 1990s; and the methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl and opioid threats from all over the world in the last two decades.
As criminal networks have grown more sophisticated in the last 40 years — branching out to more varied types of criminal activity — OCDETF has responded by expanding its mission beyond drug trafficking organizations and money laundering networks to all forms of transnational organized crime. OCDETF is fully engaged in all manner of investigations into criminal networks involved in human smuggling, sophisticated financial fraud, cyber-enabled crime, illicit finance, arms trafficking, government benefits theft, business e-mail compromise and U.S. sanctions evasion. OCDETF is uniquely and ideally structured to support the fight against transnational organized crime through operational integration, collaboration and law enforcement information sharing.
“Since its founding, OCDETF has been a synchronizer and our role is to incentivize prosecutors to lead smart, creative law enforcement agents in investigations focused on priority targets of organized criminal groups and the illicit financial networks that support them,” said OCDETF Director Adam W. Cohen. “Today, OCDETF provides a forward leaning structure for our partners to work together and leverage each other’s strengths, capabilities and legal authorities resulting in continued positive impacts to the nation.”
OCDETF’s successes over the last 40 years have been made possible by strong collaboration and coordination with its member agencies. OCDETF is partnered with the 93 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, the department’s Criminal Division and 11 federal law enforcement agencies from the Department of Justice (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Federal Bureau of Investigation; U.S. Marshals Service), Homeland Security (Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. Coast Guard; U.S. Secret Service), Treasury (Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigation), Postal (U.S. Postal Inspection Service), Labor (Office of the Inspector General), and State (Bureau of Diplomatic Security).
OCDETF’s governance, bringing leadership to the multi-agency transnational organized crime mission and focus on joint priority targets has generated genuine measurable accomplishments — over 34,000 multi-agency cases against priority targets, over 124,000 indictments of almost 360,000 defendants, and incredibly, over 15,690 of those resulted in impactful disruption, or even dismantlement of criminal organizations.
“As OCDETF begins our 41st year, we will continue to provide a coordination platform for comprehensive investigations and prosecutions of the most dangerous transnational criminal organizations, the successful result of which is to make our nation safer,” said OCDETF Director Cohen.
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Texas Man Indicted in Federal Court for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury recently returned a three-count indictment charging James Martin, age 50, of Beckville, Texas, with distribution of child pornography. Martin appeared for his arraignment and pled not guilty to the pending charges.
According to the criminal complaint that preceded the indictment, between July 2022 and August 2022, Martin sent more than 250 sexually explicit videos and photographs of young children, including toddlers, to an undercover FBI agent in the Middle District of Louisiana.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, and the Panola County, Texas Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner.
NOTE: An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea.
Stockton Man Sentenced to More Than 3 Years in Prison for Possession of Unregistered Firearms SilencersRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Alan Alfredo Garcia, 26, of Stockton, was sentenced Monday to three years and five months in prison for possession of unregistered silencers, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on May 31, 2019, law enforcement officers searched Garcia’s residence in Stockton and found two unregistered firearms silencers, parts for making additional silencers, an AR jig for converting AR rifle and pistol lower receivers into completed firearms, six firearms, and various firearms parts. A search of Garcia’s cellphone revealed additional evidence that he was manufacturing and modifying firearms, including to make them fully automatic.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, and the Stockton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David W. Spencer prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the 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.
Stamford Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that AMIN HASAN, 44, of Stamford, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for unlawful possession of a firearm. Judge Shea ordered Hasan to serve the first six months of his supervised release in a halfway house.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 5, 2020, Hasan was arrested by Stamford Police after causing a disturbance at a shopping plaza and a search of a van he rented revealed 13 filled 5-gallon gas cans, two hatchets, and ax and other items. The next day, law enforcement searched Hasan’s residence and seized numerous items, including a gas mask, a chainsaw, a “survival-style” knife, two backpacks containing 30 smoke grenades and 44 caltrops (spikes used to puncture vehicle tires), and a loaded Glock 9mm pistol. Investigators also found a note on Hasan’s bed with instructions to call his cousin in the event of his death. Days later, Hasan’s car was found parked in Bridgeport and contained an additional 12 filled 5-gallon gas cans, a hatchet, and other items.
In May 2019, Hasan was convicted in state court of assault of public safety, emergency medical, public transport or health care personnel. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Hasan has been detained since his arrest. On May 6, 2022, he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
Related state charges against Hasan are pending.
This matter was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation and Stamford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick J. Doherty.
Slidell Woman Pleads Guilty to Misappropriating Military Veteran’s FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SLOANE SIGNAL-DEBOSE, age 51, a resident of Slidell, pled guilty to misappropriating funds from a veteran while SIGNAL was the veteran’s fiduciary.
The government filed a one-count bill of information that charged SIGNAL with misappropriation by a veteran’s fiduciary, in violation of Title 38, United States Code, Section 6101. According to court documents, from 2016 until 2018 SIGNAL was a fiduciary for a veteran who needed assistance with the management of his affairs, and controlled the veteran’s finances and bank accounts. During that time, SIGNAL took over $100,000 from the veteran’s accounts, routed it through bank accounts in her own name, ultimately using it as the down payment on a home for SIGNAL that was only in SIGNAL’s name. SIGNAL also used additional funds from the veteran to pay contractors working on SIGNAL’s home. SIGNAL then submitted false records to the Department of Veteran’s Affairs to hide her misuse of the veteran’s funds.
SIGNAL faces up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release after release from prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain to SIGNAL or the gross loss to any victims, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. Judge Sarah S. Vance set the sentencing hearing for February 15, 2023.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses is in charge of the prosecution.
Sacramento Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Lawrence Guerain Fleming, 38, of Sacramento, was sentenced today to three years and one month in prison for two counts of being a felon in possession of ammunition, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Feb. 1, 2020, Fleming lost control of his motorcycle and crashed on Highway 50 in Sacramento County. A witness stopped to help Fleming, who asked the witness to conceal a gun without a serial number (sometimes called a “ghost gun”) loaded with eight rounds of ammunition behind a guardrail on the freeway. When officers arrived, the witness told them about the firearm. A warrant was issued for Fleming’s arrest, and on March 17, 2021, Fleming was arrested. At the time of his arrest, Fleming possessed a ghost gun that was loaded with a high-capacity magazine containing 14 rounds.
Fleming cannot lawfully possess a firearm or ammunition because he has a prior federal felony conviction for assaulting a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier with a firearm.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the California Highway Patrol, the Fairfield Police Department, the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, the Solano County District Attorney’s Office, and the FBI’s Solano County Violent Crimes Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alstyn Bennett and Adrian T. Kinsella prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the 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.
Rochester Man Sentenced to 6.5 Years in Prison for Arson of Multiple Buildings in St. PaulRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Rochester man who fled to Mexico to evade apprehension, and was later located and returned by Mexican authorities, was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $39,028 in restitution for the arson of two retail stores and a school during the summer of 2020, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on May 28, 2020, Jose Angel Felan, Jr., 36, set fire to the Goodwill retail store, the Gordon Parks High School, and the 7 Mile Sportswear store, all of which were located on University Avenue in St. Paul. Following the arsons, Felan and his wife and co-defendant Mena Dhaya Yousif, 23, fled the state. Felan and Yousif traveled by car from Rochester, Minnesota, to Texas, where Felan had family. Ultimately, Felan and Yousif fled the United States and escaped to Mexico. On February 15, 2021, following an anonymous tip, Felan and Yousif were located and detained by Mexican immigration authorities and returned to the United States.
Felan was sentenced today in U.S. District Court before Senior Judge David S. Doty. On February 24, 2022, he pleaded guilty to one count of arson.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the FBI, the St. Paul Police Department, the Rochester Police Department, the St. Paul Fire Department, and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal Division. The fugitive apprehension efforts were led by the U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melinda A. Williams and Emily A. Polachek prosecuted the case.
Roanoke Man to Serve 12 Years for Using Gun in Fatal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – A Roanoke man, who had been acquitted in state court of a May 2019 murder in the City of Roanoke after claiming self-defense, was sentenced yesterday to 12 years in prison on a federal gun charge.
Demarcus Shaiquan Glenn, 23, pled guilty in July 2022 to one count of possessing, brandishing, and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, a 16-year-old male contacted Glenn through a friend on May 31, 2019, in order to purchase two ounces of marijuana. Glenn agreed to sell the teenager the marijuana for $300 and was to meet him at a Denniston Avenue residence to conduct the transaction. In the course of that transaction, Glenn produced a firearm and shot and killed the teenager.
Glenn was charged in state court for the shooting but was later acquitted, claiming self-defense.
During his state jury trial, Glenn testified in his own defense. According to Glenn, he carried firearms for protection because he sold drugs and it can be dangerous, and when he arrived at the teenager’s residence, Glenn was carrying a loaded firearm in his right pocket. Glenn admitted under oath to shooting the teenager in the course of the drug deal.
Federal law prohibits convicted drug dealers from possessing, brandishing, and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
United States Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh, Special Agent in Charge Stanley M. Meador of the FBI Richmond Division, and Samuel Roman, Chief of Police for the City of Roanoke, made the announcement today.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the City of Roanoke Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Coleman Adams and Kristin B. Johnson prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Rhode Island Man Pleads Guilty to Cyberstalking Maine WomanRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: A Rhode Island man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to cyberstalking, U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee announced.
According to court records, between March 2019 and September 2019, Larry Spencer, 63, of Providence, Rhode Island and formerly of Maryland, cyberstalked his former spouse. The victim ended their brief marriage in 2016 and filed for a restraining order in Maryland. Despite the restraining order and the victim relocating, Spencer continued to harass and intimidate the victim on social media and by email. The harassment and threats continued after the victim moved to Maine in 2018 and obtained a protection from abuse order in March 2019. The protection order included explicit language that the “Defendant shall not post any direct or indirect threats about or concerning the plaintiff on social media/online.”
Spencer faces up to five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine, followed by up to three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI investigated the case.
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Registered Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that John Fadden, 49, of Savona, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to possession of child pornography by an individual who has a prior conviction involving the sexual abuse of a child. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of 20 years in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that in March 2021, The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received two cybertip reports from Yahoo! Inc. that in February and March, 2021, user [email protected] uploaded approximately 185 image files of suspected child pornography. In October 2021, investigators executed a search warrant at Fadden’s residence and seized nine electronic devices and storage media. A forensic analysis recovered approximately 278 images on those devices.
Fadden is a Level 3 registered sex offender. He was convicted in 1991, 1992, and 2001 of Sexual Abuse 1st: Sexual Contact with Individual Less Than 11 Years Old. In 2013, Fadden was convicted of Sex Offender Fail to Report Change of Address/Status In 10 Days.
The plea is a result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eugene Staniszewski.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 19, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.
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Reading Man Sentenced to 100 Months’ Imprisonment for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on October 17, 2022, William F. Showers, age 37, of Reading, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to 100 months of imprisonment and a 5-year term of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, from July through December 2021, Showers conspired with others to distribute over 200 grams of a substance containing methamphetamine, including over 50 grams of actual or pure methamphetamine. During the course of the investigation, an undercover agent purchased methamphetamine directly from the defendant at locations in Berks and Schuylkill Counties.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Philadelphia Division and the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP). Assistant United States Attorney Jeffery St John prosecuted the case.
This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Press release by U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan relating to the November 2022 General ElectionRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan announced that Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Brent Gray will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2022, general election. AUSA Gray has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Northern District of Georgia, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the district’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
“Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
U.S. Attorney Buchanan added, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
"The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy,” said U.S. Attorney Buchanan. “We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.”
In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Gray will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: (404) 581-6001.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 770-216-3000.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at 800-253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/.
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.