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7 October 2022
Eastern District of Washington Takes Part in Department of Justice’s Wide-Ranging Efforts to Protect Older AdultsRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – The Justice Department has announced the results of its efforts over the past year to protect older adults from fraud and exploitation. During the past year, the Department and its law enforcement partners tackled maters that ranged from mass-marketing scams that impacted thousands of victims to bad actors scamming their neighbors. Substantial efforts were also made over the last year to return money to fraud victims. The Department also announced it is expanding its Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force to amplify efforts to combat scams originating overseas.
“We are intensifying our efforts nationwide to protect older adults, including by more than tripling the number of U.S. Attorneys’ offices participating in our Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force dedicated to disrupting, dismantling and prosecuting foreign-based fraud schemes that target American seniors,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This expansion builds on the Justice Department’s existing work to hold accountable those who steal funds from older adults, including by returning those funds to the victims where possible.”
“From the Palouse to the Cascades, and from the small towns to the big cities, respect for our elders is a principle we can all live by in the Eastern District of Washington,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Having safe and strong communities means protecting our seniors, who can be among our most vulnerable – and are often the same people who have protected all of us when we have been vulnerable ourselves.”
During the period from September 2021 to September 2022, Department personnel and its law enforcement partners pursued approximately 260 cases involving more than 600 defendants, both bringing new cases and advancing those previously charged.
The following are examples of recent cases involving fraud perpetrated against older adults in the Eastern District of Washington:
• United States v. Jeffrey Carley, 1:21-cr-010: Defendant Jeffery Carley was an investment broker, who was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for an investment scheme targeting older clients. As part of the scheme Carley stole money from his victims’ retirement accounts;
- United States v. Providence Health & Services, 4:20-cv-05004-SMJ: Two Walla Walla neurosurgeons alleged to have performed medically unnecessary spinal surgeries on elderly Medicare beneficiaries. Providence Health and Services agreed to pay $22.7 million to resolve liability, which is the largest-ever health care fraud settlement in the Eastern District of Washington;
- United States v. David Joseph Osinksi, 2-22-CR-0070-TOR: Osinksi has been indicted and charged with a $345,000 romance-fraud scheme allegedly involving an elderly victim in Spokane, Washington; and
- United States v. Ronald Walter Hannes, 2-22-CR-0085-TOR: Hannes, a registered financial advisor, indicted and charged with a $2.9 million scheme in which he allegedly defrauded a number of investors.
As part of the Eastern District’s elder fraud efforts, the U.S. Attorney’s Office engages in outreach to the community and industry to raise awareness about scams and exploitation and preventing victimization. This year, the Eastern District co-hosted, with the Washington State AG’s office, a conference to kick off a working group aimed at bringing together state and federal law enforcement and regulatory partners to combat health care fraud and elder abuse in the Eastern District of Washington. The working group developed and has begun to implement a detailed plan for community engagement and outreach involving state and federal partners, local government, community groups, private health insurers, and health care providers. Additionally, the Eastern District partnered with DEA on Operation Engage, which worked directly with the community, especially pharmacies and pharmacists, to educate and work with the public and health care practitioners to safeguard the community from opioids and prescription medications.
The Department also highlighted three other efforts: expansion of the Transnational Elder Fraud Task Force, success in returning money to victims and efforts to combat grandparent scams.
The Department announced that as part of its continuing efforts to protect older adults and bring perpetrators of fraud schemes to justice it is expanding the Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force, adding 14 new U.S. Attorney’s Offices. Expansion of the Strike Force will help to coordinate the Department’s ongoing efforts to combat largest and most harmful fraud schemes that target or disproportionately impact older adults.
In the past year, the Department has notified over 550,000 people that they may be eligible for remission payments. Notifications were made to consumers whose information was sold by one of three data companies prosecuted by the Department and were later victims of “sweepstakes” or “astrology” solicitations that falsely promised prizes or individualized services in return for a fee. More than 150,000 of those victims cashed checks totaling $52 million, and thousands more are eligible to receive checks. Also notified were consumers who paid fraudsters perpetrating person-in-need scams and job scams via Western Union. In the past year, the Department has identified and contacted over 300,000 consumers who may be eligible for remission. Since March of 2020 more than 148,000 victims have received more than $366 million as a result of a 2017 criminal resolution with Western Union for the company’s willful failure to maintain an effective anti-money laundering program and its aiding and abetting of wire fraud.
Over the past year, the Department pursued cases against the perpetrators of “grandparent scams,” otherwise known as “person-in-need scams.” These scams typically begin when a fraudster, often based overseas, contacts an older adult and poses as either a grandchild, other family member or someone calling on behalf of a family member. Call recipients are told that their family member is in jeopardy and is urgently in need of money. When recently sentencing one of eight perpetrators of a grandparent scam indicted under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, a federal judge described such scams “heartbreakingly evil.” The Department is working with government partners and others to raise awareness about these schemes.
Reporting from consumers about fraud and fraud attempts is critical to law enforcements efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-866 FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Department of Justice Hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals, who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting or connect them with agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 3:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. PST. English, Spanish and other languages are available. More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website, www.elderjustice.gov.
Some of the cases that comprise today’s announcement are charges, which are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Doctor Admits Criminal HIPAA Scheme for Wrongful Disclosure of Protected Patient Health Information to Pharmaceutical Sales RepresentativeRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A former physician with medical practices in New Jersey, New York, and Florida admitted wrongfully disclosing patients’ protected personal health information, Attorney for the United States Vikas Khanna announced today.
Frank Alario, 65, of Delray Beach, Florida, pleaded guilty before Judge Robert B. Kugler to conspiring to wrongfully disclose patients’ individually identifiable health information to pharmaceutical sales representative Keith Ritson in violation of the criminal provisions of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From 2014-16, Ritson was a pharmaceutical sales representative who promoted compound prescription medications and other medications. Compound medications are specialty medications mixed by a pharmacist to meet the specific medical needs of an individual patient. Although compounded drugs are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they are properly prescribed when a physician determines that an FDA-approved medication does not meet the health needs of a particular patient, such as if a patient is allergic to a dye or other ingredient.
As an outside pharmaceutical sales representative not associated with Alario’s medical practices, Ritson was not permitted to access and obtain the individually identifiable health information and protected health information of Alario’s patients. As part of the scheme, Alario permitted Ritson to have significant access to his office, medical files, and patient information. Alario allowed Ritson to be present in the office both during and outside normal business hours and to have access to areas of the office restricted to staff, including areas with patient files and office computers. Alario permitted Ritson to look up patients’ information in files and on office computers to determine if patients had insurance that covered the compound medications. Ritson then would earmark files in advance so that Alario knew to whom to prescribe the medications. Alario also brought Ritson into patient exam rooms during appointments and gave patients the impression that Ritson was employed by or affiliated with the medical practice, which facilitated and caused the disclosure of confidential health information to Ritson. Ritson would use patients’ confidential information to fill out prescription forms that Alario would authorize, and then Ritson received commissions on those prescriptions.
Alario was previously charged in an indictment alongside Ritson with conspiring to violate HIPAA and other offenses. The charges remain pending against Ritson, who is scheduled to go on trial before Judge Kugler in Camden federal court on Nov. 7, 2022. The charges against him are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Alario faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $50,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 7, 2023.
Attorney for the United States Khanna credited agents of the FBI’s Atlantic City Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Denney in Newark; special agents of IRS - Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Tammy Tomlins in Newark; and the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, New York Region, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Mellone, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina O. Hud of the Criminal Division and R. David Walk Jr., Chief of the Opioid Abuse Prevention and Enforcement Unit.
District of South Carolina Takes Part in Department of Justice’s Wide-Ranging Efforts to Protect Older AdultsRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA — The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and United States Attorney Adair F. Boroughs announced the results of federal efforts over the past year to protect older adults from fraud and exploitation. During the past year, DOJ and its law enforcement partners tackled matters that ranged from mass-marketing scams that impacted thousands of victims to bad actors scamming their neighbors. Substantial efforts both nationwide and in South Carolina have been made over the last year to return money to fraud victims. Today, DOJ also announced it is expanding its Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force to amplify efforts to combat scams originating overseas.
“We are intensifying our efforts nationwide to protect older adults, including by more than tripling the number of U.S. Attorneys’ offices participating in our Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force dedicated to disrupting, dismantling and prosecuting foreign-based fraud schemes that target American seniors,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This expansion builds on the Justice Department’s existing work to hold accountable those who steal funds from older adults, including by returning those funds to the victims where possible.”
“Our older adults deserve protection from those who seek to swindle funds they have spent a lifetime accumulating, and this Office is ready and equipped to provide that protection here in South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Boroughs. “These crimes are especially heinous because they can rob their victims - who often live on fixed incomes - of not only their life-long savings, but of their dignity. We are proud to join DOJ’s intensified efforts to target those who attempt to perpetrate these schemes.”
From September 2021 to September 2022, DOJ personnel and their law enforcement partners pursued approximately 260 cases involving more than 600 defendants, both bringing new cases and advancing those previously charged.
In the past year, DOJ has notified over 550,000 people that they may be eligible to receive money lost through elder fraud scams. Many of these people were victims of “sweepstakes” or “astrology” solicitations that falsely promised prizes or individualized services in return for a fee. One of the most common scams used to prey on elderly victims is the “grandparent scam,” otherwise known as “person-in-need scam.” These scams typically begin when a fraudster, often based overseas, contacts an older adult and poses as either a grandchild, other family member, or someone calling on behalf of a family member. Victims are told that their family member is in jeopardy and is urgently in need of money. Because these scams and others are pervasive, DOJ and the United States Attorney’s Office are committed to raising awareness about these schemes.
In South Carolina, the United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted several cases in the past year involving similar scams against elderly South Carolinians. In May, United States District Judge Sherri Lydon sentenced four Jamaican nationals to terms of incarceration ranging from approximately three to five years and ordered them to pay back over $350,000 in fraudulently-obtained proceeds. In that scam, the defendants contacted elderly victims by phone and mail, and falsely told them they had won a sweepstakes. The supposed prizes in these sweepstakes usually consisted of millions of dollars, a new vehicle, or other valuable items. The defendants told the victims they had to pay taxes and fees in order to receive their winnings, and victims mailed the defendants prepaid cards, money orders, cash, and personal checks. At least 67 victims, who were mostly elderly, suffered a loss as part of the scheme. Twenty-five of those victims were more than 80 years old, and several victims were targeted multiple times.
In September, United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks sentenced a foreign national to 78 months imprisonment and ordered her to pay back over $405,000 in fraudulently-obtained proceeds for her involvement in a similar scam. At least 175 victims, who were mostly elderly, suffered a loss as part of the scheme. Seventy-three of those victims were more than 80 years old, and several victims were targeted multiple times.
In order to increase public awareness of these scams, the United States Attorney’s Office has partnered with state prosecutors and law enforcement agencies to speak to community groups about the pervasive dangers of elder fraud and abuse. For instance, the office and its partners have hosted “Elder Fraud Bingo” with senior citizens across South Carolina, aimed at educating seniors on how to spot and protect themselves against frauds and scams. Any members of the public interested in arranging a similar event or contacting a member of the United States Attorney’s Office who can speak to these issues, please call the main line at 803-929-3000.
Reporting from consumers about fraud and fraud attempts is critical to law enforcements efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available through the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833 FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Department of Justice Hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting or connect them with agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. English, Spanish and other languages are available. More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website, www.elderjustice.gov.
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District of Columbia Man Pleads Guilty to 2020 Fatal Shooting of Man on Street Northeast WashingtonRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Stanley Brown, 29, of Washington, D.C, pleaded guilty today to fatally shooting a man in Northeast Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Robert J. Contee III, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Brown pleaded guilty in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to a charge of voluntary manslaughter while armed. The plea, which is contingent upon the Court’s approval, calls for an agreed-upon prison sentence of 12 years. The Honorable Milton C. Lee, Jr. scheduled sentencing for Jan. 6, 2023.
A second defendant, Emmanuel Taylor, 39, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty today to a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm, stemming from the investigation into the shooting. His plea, also subject to court approval, calls for an agreed-upon sentence of 36 to 54 months. He also is to be sentenced on Jan. 6, 2023.
According to the government’s evidence, on Jan. 23, 2020, at approximately 10:15 a.m., Brown approached the victim, Jimmy Beynum, on foot in the 1600 block of F Street NE. Brown shot Mr. Beynum multiple times, and then fled the scene. Mr. Beynum, 37, died on Jan. 29, 2020, as a result of multiple gunshot wounds.
The investigation determined that Taylor earlier had left his apartment in Southeast Washington with Brown and dropped him off in the area where the shooting took place. When police searched the apartment six days later, Taylor attempted to jump out of the window and then threw a pistol out of the window.
In announcing the pleas, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Contee commended the work of the officers, detectives and other personnel who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They acknowledged the efforts of those who handled the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Assistant U.S. Attorney Sitara Witanachchi, former Assistant U.S. Attorney Puja Bhatia, and Victim/Witness Program Specialist Karina Hernandez. Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Seidel and Brian Ganjei, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
District Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison for Stabbing Ex-Girlfriend More Than 50 TimesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Brian Wesley, 47, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to nine years in prison for breaking into his ex-girlfriend’s apartment in Southeast Washington and stabbing her more than 50 times while under the influence of PCP.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, and Robert J. Contee III, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Wesley pleaded guilty in July 2022, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, to one charge of assault with intent to kill. He was sentenced by the Honorable Milton C. Lee Jr.
According to the government’s evidence, Wesley’s ex-girlfriend kicked him out of her home about a week before the stabbing. During that week, Wesley ransacked her apartment and threatened her via text message.
On May 6, 2022, at approximately 2 p.m., Wesley pushed his way into the victim’s apartment and immediately began stabbing her until she was eventually limp and silent on the ground. After he ceased his assault, Wesley walked to the window of a bedroom and jumped from the third-story apartment, breaking his hip and sustaining other head and bodily injuries. Neighbors called 911. Responding officers and emergency medical personnel located the victim limp and bleeding on the stairwell and Wesley unconscious on the sidewalk outside with the bloody knife nearby. The victim was taken to the hospital where she received multiple surgeries and necessary medical procedures.
Wesley was arrested at the scene. He has been detained ever since.
Following his prison sentence, Wesley will be placed on a period of supervised release for three years with conditions including substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment, and an order to stay away and not contact the victim.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves, and Chief Contee commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also expressed appreciation for the work of those who handled the case at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Victim/Witness Advocate Lu Lan and Paralegal Specialist Brenda Williams.
Finally, they commended the efforts of Assistant U.S. Attorney Zach Horton, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
District Man Sentenced to 11-Year Prison Term for Killing Man Inside Southeast Washington Convenience StoreRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Rondez Tibbs, 27, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to an 11-year prison term for fatally shooting a man last year at a convenience store in Southeast Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Robert J. Contee III, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Tibbs pleaded guilty in June 2022, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, to second-degree murder while armed. The plea agreement, which was contingent upon the Court’s approval, called for an agreed-upon term of 9 ½-to-14 years in prison. The Honorable Maribeth Raffinan accepted the plea and sentenced Tibbs accordingly. Following his prison term, he will be placed on five years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, on July 21, 2021, at approximately 12:15 a.m., Tibbs was in a convenience store in the 2200 block of Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue SE. The victim, Malcolm Johnson, was also in the store. Tibbs approached Mr. Johnson and attempted to rob him. He attempted to take Mr. Johnson’s black cross body bag from him.
Tibbs held a black handgun with an extended magazine down at his side while Mr. Johnson began reaching for his own gun to defend himself. While Tibbs had Mr. Johnson pinned against the wall, Mr. Johnson grabbed hold of his gun inside the black bag; Tibbs grabbed Mr. Johnson’s hand inside the black bag. A struggle ensued and both men were shot. Mr. Johnson then stumbled out of the store and entered a parked vehicle. Mr. Johnson, 27, was subsequently found unconscious in the parked vehicle a short time later; he was shot in the stomach.
Tibbs was hospitalized after the shooting and arrested.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Contee commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Criminal Investigations Division Homicide Branch of the Metropolitan Police Department. They acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialist Lashone Samuels and Victim/Witness Specialist Jennifer Clark.
Finally, they commended the efforts of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shehzad Akhtar and Peter Roman, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
Delaware County Man Sentenced to Thirty Months in Federal Prison for Being a Prohibited Person in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A prohibited person who possessed a firearm was sentenced today to 30 months in federal prison.
Matthew Welcher, age 44, of Dundee, received the sentence after an April 19, 2022 guilty plea to one count of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. At the plea hearing, Welcher admitted that, on May 24, 2021, he possessed a Savage Axis 6.5 Creedmoor caliber rifle after having been convicted of two felonies and a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and while he was subject to a no contact order.
Welcher was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Welcher was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, the Manchester Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR 22-2011.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Convicted Felon Found in Possession of AR-15 Firearm Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Orlando Rishawn Walter, 33, of Cedar Hill, Texas, has been sentenced today in federal court, United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced. United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote sentenced Walter to 49 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm.
Walter was charged in an indictment in December 2020 with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and he pleaded guilty to the charge on May 27, 2022. The charges stem from an incident that occurred on July 25, 2020 when deputies with the Desoto Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle. The driver was identified and asked to provide a registration for the vehicle. When the driver opened the passenger door to retrieve the paperwork, the deputy noticed another individual sitting in the passenger seat, who was later identified as Walter. The deputy observed the butt end of a rifle sitting beside Walter and Walter’s left hand on the firearm. Walter was ordered to slowly exit the vehicle with hands raised and as he exited the vehicle, he fled into a nearby cemetery. Deputies were unable to apprehend Walter at the time. Walter’s firearm was retrieved from the vehicle and deputies discovered that it was a loaded AR-15 pistol with a 30-round magazine, with a round in the chamber and the safety was in the off position.
Law enforcement agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) determined that Walter has previous felony convictions for possession with intent to distribute Schedule I controlled substances (2008) and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance (2015), as well as DWI (2017). As such, Walter was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition. Agents were able to locate Walter and he was arrested and charged with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
The case was investigated by the ATF and Desoto Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tennille M. Gilreath.
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California Man Indicted in Cryptocurrency Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A San Francisco, CA man has been indicted for federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Brit Featherston today.
John Khuu, 27, was named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury charging him with money laundering conspiracy. Khuu was arraigned in federal court by U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love on Oct. 6, 2022.
According to the indictment, Khuu is alleged to have conspired with others to launder the proceeds of his drug trafficking organization through cryptocurrency. The defendant allegedly distributed counterfeit pharmaceutical pills and other controlled substances on dark web markets to customers across the United States. Customers paid for their purchases by transferring cryptocurrency, usually Bitcoin, from their dark web market customer accounts to one of Khuu’s vendor accounts. Khuu and his co-conspirators traded the Bitcoin for U.S. currency and laundered the proceeds through hundreds of transactions and dozens of financial accounts.
During the course of the conspiracy, Khuu and his co-conspirators allegedly laundered more than $5,350,000.00.
On May 18, 2022, a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Texas returned an indictment charging Khuu with conspiracy to commit money laundering. On August 17, 2022, a federal grand jury in the Northern District of California returned a two-count indictment charging Khuu with unlawful importation of a controlled substance.
On August 19, 2022, agents arrested Khuu pursuant to both warrants at a residence in Garden Grove, CA.
If convicted, Khuu faces up to 20 years in federal prison on each charge. A grand jury indictment is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel C. Kummerfeld.
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Cahokia Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison on Felon in Possession ChargeRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Rodney W. Sippel on Friday sentenced a man from Cahokia, Illinois to 46 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm on two separate occasions.
Freddie Tilmon, 31, pleaded guilty June 7 to two counts being a felon in possession of a firearm. He admitted that he and his co-defendant, Tishonda Turner, 32, of St. Louis County, went to a St. Louis County gun store on August 8, 2020 and spent $3,984 on three guns, ammunition and accessories. Tilmon told Turner what to buy.
One of the guns, a Glock semiautomatic pistol, was found by authorities when Tilmon was pulled over in Sandy Springs, Georgia on Nov. 21, 2020.
Tilmon was initially indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on March 3, 2021. When the U.S. Marshals found and arrested him on Oct. 14, 2021, a second Glock pistol with an extended magazine was discovered.
In a sentencing memo, Assistant U.S. Attorney Kourtney Bell said that on July 28, 2020, an East St. Louis police officer spotted Tilmon with what appeared to be an assault rifle in the driver’s seat of in a car outside of a nightclub. The incident triggered an officer-involved shooting that injured a passenger in Tilmon’s car. Law enforcement later discovered that two pistols found in Tilmon’s car were purchased by Turner at the same gun store as in the August purchase.
Tilmon still faces a federal charge in Georgia of being a felon in possession of a firearm and state charges in Illinois, Bell said in court.
Turner pleaded guilty Feb. 11, 2022 and was sentenced to two years of probation after pleading guilty to two counts of making a false statement to a federally-licensed firearms dealer: on July 16, 2020 and again on August 8, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kourtney Bell prosecuted the case.
Buffalo Felon Going to Prison on Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, NY—U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Frankie Cook, 29, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams of heroin and 40 grams of fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a firearm, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth T. Molisani, who handled the case, stated that on February 11, 2020, in Erie County Court, Cook was convicted of Attempted Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. On February 26, 2020, Erie County Probation officers went to Cook’s residence on Dartmouth Avenue in Buffalo, for an initial information visit. During the visit, officers discovered what appeared to be a drug preparation station with gloves, masks, and plastic bags in the basement. Officers then searched the basement and found a hidden safe with approximately 240 grams of fentanyl, 156 grams of heroin, drug paraphernalia, a .45 caliber magazine, .45 caliber ammunition, 9mm ammunition, and a stolen loaded 9mm handgun inside.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Erie County Probation Department, under the direction of Commissioner Michelle Olszowy; the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
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Bruceton Man Sentenced to 12 Years for Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Carl Goodson Ragsdale, 58, of Bruceton, Tennessee, has been sentenced to 12 years for distribution, possession, and receipt of child pornography. Kevin G. Ritz, United States Attorney, announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, in October 2018, Tumblr, Inc., a social networking website, reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) a cyper tip about apparent child pornography activity on a blog called "sweetbabygirlsdaddy." Tumblr provided an email address and IP address for the account and disabled the account. The IP address geolocated to Bruceton, Tennessee. To assist with the investigation, NCMEC forwarded the tip to local law enforcement. The Martin Police Department Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force contacted the
Federal Bureau of Investigation's Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force. Investigators identified Carl Goodson Ragsdale, of Bruceton, Tennessee, as the owner and user of the account.FBI special agents interviewed Ragsdale, who admitted that he used the Tumblr account
"sweetbabygirlsdaddy" to receive and post images, including sexually explicit images of prepubescent girls. He admitted that he also used a cloud storage site to receive sexually explicit images of prepubescent children. He told agents that he "constantly" accessed child pornography on the internet and that he thought about sexual intercourse with women and children "all the time."Agents reviewed Ragsdale's cell phone and tablet computer and found over 600 images of child sex abuse and graphic sexually explicit conversations about the children in some of those images of child sex abuse.
United States Attorney Kevin Ritz said: “Thanks to proactive and significant cooperation between our office and local and federal law enforcement partners, this defendant was brought to justice for his abhorrent crimes.”
On May 16, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment against Ragsdale, charging him with distribution, possession, and receipt of child pornography. He pled guilty to the charges on March 25, 2022.
On October 4, United States Chief District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Ragsdale to 144 months imprisonment, to be followed by lifetime supervised release. Ragsdale must also register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the FBI Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Martin
Police Department Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Delery prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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Contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or [email protected]. Follow
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Birmingham Man Found Guilty of Kidnapping Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A federal jury today convicted a Birmingham man for kidnapping and conspiracy to kidnap a minor victim, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Federal Bureau of Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Felix A. Rivera-Esparra.
The jury returned its guilty verdict against Patrick Devone Stallworth, 42, after three days of testimony before Chief U.S. District Court Judge L. Scott Coogler. Stallworth was convicted of one count of kidnapping and one count of conspiracy to kidnap a minor victim arising out of events which occurred in October 2019. The jury further found that the minor victim’s death resulted from the kidnapping. Stallworth faces life in prison.
According to evidence presented at trial, on October 12, 2019, Stallworth traveled in a Toyota Sequoia with a co-conspirator to the Tom Brown Village Housing Development located in Birmingham, Alabama and kidnapped 3-year-old Kamille “Cupcake” McKinney. Her body was found 10 days later.
“Today, the jury held the defendant accountable for his actions in victimizing one of the most vulnerable victims in our community, a 3-year-old child. This office remains dedicated to prosecuting those criminals who prey on children,” U.S. Attorney Escalona said. “Just as the search for the victim involved many of our local, state, and federal partners, the trial this week also would not have been successful without these agencies. I am grateful for their hard work and dedication.”
“While today’s verdict does not take away the pain for Kamille’s family, or the void in their life that they can never fill, they at least know we are one step closer to justice being served on those responsible,” Acting SAC Rivera said.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Birmingham Police Department investigated the case, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service. Chief of the Criminal Division Lloyd C. Peeples and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Blake Milner and Brittany Byrd prosecuted the case.
Bergen County Man Charged with Distribution and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Bergen County, New Jersey, man was arrested for distributing and possessing videos of child sexual abuse, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Michael Kimmerle, 34, of New Milford, New Jersey, is charged by complaint with one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. He appeared Oct. 6, 2022, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jessica S. Allen and was released on $100,000 unsecured bond.
According to documents filed in this case:
From August 2021 through August 2022, Kimmerle distributed videos of child sexual abuse via a publicly available online peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing program. During the course of the investigation, an undercover law enforcement officer conducted online sessions using the P2P program, during which a user shared multiple videos of child sexual abuse from an IP address traced to Kimmerle’s address.
Subsequent to a lawful search of his residence, law enforcement officers recovered thumbnail images containing child pornography on Kimmerle’s laptop, including several images derived from one of the video files Kimmerle previously distributed on the P2P program. They also found the P2P program on Kimmerle’s laptop.
The count of distribution of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000. The count of possession of child pornography carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, New Jersey Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel, with the investigation leading to today’s charges.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny Chung of the General Crimes Unit in Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – Travis John Miller, 39, of Beckley, pleaded guilty today to distribution of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Miller admitted to selling approximately 26.94 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant at his Beckley residence on October 19, 2021. Miller further admitted to selling quantities of methamphetamine to a confidential informant on October 20 and October 27, 2021.
On October 29, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Miller’s residence and found methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and a Hi-Point .380-caliber semi-automatic pistol.
Miller is scheduled to be sentenced on January 27, 2023, and faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison, four years of supervised release, and a $5 million fine.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit.
United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Isabell is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:22-cr-107.
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Bay Minette Man Sentenced to 151 Months for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Billy Tyler, 47, of Bay Minette, AL, was sentenced to one hundred and fifty-one months in prison for distribution of child pornography. Tyler entered a guilty plea to those offenses on December 17, 2021.
According to court documents filed in connection with his guilty plea, in January 2021, an undercover FBI agent was in a group on Kik, a mobile app, with a person using the username “Mission0101.” Mission0101 was the administrator of the group. Mission0101 was observed by the FBI agent to have distributed five separate child pornography videos of prepubescent females engaged in sexual activity. Billy Tyler was identified as user Mission0101.
United States District Judge Terry F. Moorer imposed a 151-month sentence of incarceration. The judge also ordered Tyler to serve a twenty-five year term of supervised release upon his discharge from prison. Judge Moorer ordered that Tyler pay $15,000.00 in restitution to his victims and $100 in special assessments. Tyler will be required to register as a sex offender when he is released from prison, and is to have no contact with minors.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Kacey Chappelear prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc/publications-resources.
Australian National Sentenced for His Role in International Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung has sentenced Baron Matson (45, Brisbane, Australia) to five years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. As part of his sentence, the court also ordered Matson to pay $4,319,762 in restitution and entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $1,285,000, which represented proceeds of the charged criminal conduct. Matson had pleaded guilty on August 23, 2022.
According to court documents, from approximately fall of 1999 and continuing through early 2000, conspirators Roger Matson, Baron Matson, Gordon Robert Grant, and others, caused a letter proposal to be sent via commercial carrier to persons residing in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and other states. Within that proposal, conspirator Roger Matson was identified as “Roger Bronstein,” a Specialist Computer Programmer, purportedly working on behalf of his company, Ascot Bloodstock, Inc. Roger Matson’s son, Baron Matson, was identified as “Baron Bronstein.” The proposal included multiple fraudulent assertions, including that:
- Roger Bronstein was a self-made multi-millionaire who had discovered a method, referred to as the Professional Race Organizer (the “P.R.O.”) program, through which he earned great sums of money working approximately 10 hours per week;
- Roger Bronstein owned a private villa on St. Martin, in the Caribbean; and
- Roger Bronstein’s business (the business at the core of the proposal) produced a global income in excess of $1 million per year, of generally tax-free income.
The proposal explained that interested investors would receive a fully paid round-trip airline ticket to St. Martin, where they could meet with “Baron Bronstein,” who personally trained all P.R.O. licensees. The proposal claimed that this exchange would allow for the potential investors to familiarize themselves with the P.R.O. and to assess the consistency and international profitability of the P.R.O., as well as provide an opportunity for interested investors to experience firsthand the lifestyle that P.R.O. was (purportedly) providing for Roger and Baron Bronstein.
The solicited persons were initially offered an “opportunity” to participate in the P.R.O. program based upon a cash investment fee of $45,000, $90,000, or $135,000 plus a royalty fee on any profits from the first five years of operation based upon the level of investment. Shortly after the initial investors had accepted the proposal and paid the up-front licensing fee, they were informed by the person they knew as Baron Bronstein that a new program called the Managed Account program had been initiated. It was explained by Baron Bronstein and other conspirators that the Managed Account program would alleviate the task of operating the P.R.O. and increase the investors’ opportunity for returns. The investors were fraudulently led to believe that the Bronsteins would operate the Managed Account program by pooling the investors= funds and managing the wagering process. The investors were also fraudulently assured that the Managed Account program would allow them to collect a return on their investment of approximately seven to nine percent (7B9%) per month. The promised rate of return was generally based upon each investor’s initial royalty fee arrangement. Ultimately, substantially all the investors elected to participate in the Managed Account program. To lull the investors and to encourage future investments, the conspirators prepared and forwarded to the investors monthly statements that fraudulently reflected the promised monthly earnings.
In the early fall of 2000, the investors were presented with yet a new “opportunity” to invest up to $75,000 each, which, they were fraudulently informed by the conspirators, would be used to place wagers on the Melbourne Cup horse race that would potentially earn them an ample return. The investors were ensured by the conspirators, including Baron Bronstein, that the new $75,000 investment would be “guaranteed” and returned to the investors shortly after the race, regardless of the race’s outcome, and that any profits from the Melbourne Cup transaction would be paid out to the investors shortly thereafter. Believing that their earlier investments were profitable, many investors accepted the new proposition and transferred funds to a bank account in Vanuatu maintained by the conspirators. Shortly after the Melbourne Cup horse race, however, Baron Bronstein and the other conspirators vanished, along with investors’ funds, causing a total loss to the investors of approximately $4.3 million.
The three conspirators were charged in a sealed superseding indictment in December 2005. Grant was apprehended in 2008 and pleaded guilty for his role in the conspiracy later that year. Baron Matson was arrested in Australia in October 2015, where he was living under the name Jah Baz. He was recently extradited to the United States following protracted litigation.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jay G. Trezevant and James A. Muench. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance with the defendant’s extradition. The U.S. Marshals Service also provided critical assistance.
Aurora Man Indicted for Weapons ViolationsRead the Press Release
DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces Jeremy Lavon Tate, age 27, of Aurora, Colorado, was indicted by a federal grand jury for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person and possession of a machinegun.
According a previously filed criminal complaint, Tate was arrested at Children’s Hospital in Aurora on September 24, 2022, while in possession of a pistol loaded with a round in the chamber. Aurora police officers took possession of the firearm and noted it to have what appeared to be an auto-convertor switch affixed to the rear of the pistol, which would allow the firearm to operate in a fully automatic capacity. A high-capacity magazine containing an additional 17 rounds was inserted in the firearm. Investigators also learned Tate is a previously convicted felon.
The defendant was arraigned by Magistrate Judge N. Reid Neureiter on October 6, 2022. Judge Neureiter ordered him to be detained.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Aurora Police Department. Prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Brian Dunn.
The charges contained in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Case Number: 22-cr-00301
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For more information about the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Colorado, visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-co/pr
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Auburn Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: An Auburn man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Portland today to manufacturing more than 50 marijuana plants and possessing more than 50 kilograms of marijuana with intent to distribute, U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee announced.
According to court records, on February 27, 2018, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the Auburn residence of Brian Bilodeau, 38. During the search, agents seized about 180 pounds of marijuana, four firearms, a money-counting machine, a 2016 Lamborghini Huracan, and a 2014 Nissan GT-R.
Agents also searched a warehouse in Auburn used to cultivate marijuana. At this location, agents seized approximately 321 marijuana plants and 181 pounds of marijuana. This marijuana was cultivated by Bilodeau and others.
In rejecting Bilodeau’s earlier argument that he was cultivating marijuana in compliance with Maine’s Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP), the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit stated that Bilodeau and others “were knowingly engaged in a large-scale … black-market marijuana operation aimed at supplying marijuana to persons known not to be qualifying patients.” Similarly, the district court noted that “[t]he drug ledgers seized from Bilodeau’s residence indicate a sales operation that extended far beyond patient supply consistent with the MMMP.”
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations investigated the case with assistance from numerous federal, state and local law enforcement partners.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks
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6 October 2022
Wichita Man Indicted for Intent to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
WICHTIA, KAN.– A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with drug trafficking related offenses.
According to court documents, Grant Lubbers, 36, of Wichita was indicted on one count of possession with intention to distribute a controlled substance -Fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense. Lubbers is accused of possessing 40 grams or more of a substance containing a mixture of Fentanyl.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger is prosecuting the case.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Brandon Grulkowski, 29, of Eureka was indicted on one count of failure to register as a sex offender. The U.S. Marshal Service is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting the case.
Jeremy Van Ness, 36, of Cheney was indicted on two counts of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly Gordon is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Western District of Pennsylvania Takes Part in Department’s Wide-Ranging Efforts to Protect Older AdultsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – The Justice Department announced this week the results of its efforts over the past year to protect older adults from fraud and exploitation. During the past year, the Department and its law enforcement partners tackled matters that ranged from mass-marketing scams that impacted thousands of victims to bad actors scamming their neighbors. Substantial efforts were also made over the last year to return money to fraud victims. Today, the Department also announced it is expanding its Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force to amplify efforts to combat scams originating overseas.
“We are intensifying our efforts nationwide to protect older adults, including by more than tripling the number of U.S. Attorneys’ offices participating in our Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force dedicated to disrupting, dismantling and prosecuting foreign-based fraud schemes that target American seniors,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This expansion builds on the Justice Department’s existing work to hold accountable those who steal funds from older adults, including by returning those funds to the victims where possible.”
“My office is committed to ensuring that the elderly and other vulnerable citizens avoid falling victim to financial exploitation,” said U.S Attorney Cindy K. Chung. “In addition to prosecution, prevention is an important component of our work. I encourage citizens of all ages make use of the Department’s resources and educate themselves on how not to fall prey to a scammer.”
During the period from September 2021 to September 2022, Department personnel and its law enforcement partners pursued approximately 260 cases involving more than 600 defendants, both bringing new cases and advancing those previously charged.
The Department also highlighted three other efforts: expansion of the Transnational Elder Fraud Task Force, success in returning money to victims and efforts to combat grandparent scams.
The Department announced that as part of its continuing efforts to protect older adults and bring perpetrators of fraud schemes to justice it is expanding the Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force, adding 14 new U.S. Attorney’s Offices. Expansion of the Strike Force will help to coordinate the Department’s ongoing efforts to combat largest and most harmful fraud schemes that target or disproportionately impact older adults.
In the past year, the Department has notified over 550,000 people that they may be eligible for remission payments. Notifications were made to consumers whose information was sold by one of three data companies prosecuted by the Department and were later victims of “sweepstakes” or “astrology” solicitations that falsely promised prizes or individualized services in return for a fee. More than 150,000 of those victims cashed checks totaling $52 million, and thousands more are eligible to receive checks. Also notified were consumers who paid fraudsters perpetrating person-in-need scams and job scams via Western Union. In the past year, the Department has identified and contacted over 300,000 consumers who may be eligible for remission. Since March of 2020 more than 148,000 victims have received more than $366 million as a result of a 2017 criminal resolution with Western Union for the company’s willful failure to maintain an effective anti-money laundering program and its aiding and abetting of wire fraud.
This year in the Western District of Pennsylvania, two residents of California were charged in a multi-million-dollar conspiracy to defraud elderly victims by deceiving them into believing their bank accounts had been compromised, and directing them to transfer funds into accounts that had been opened with stolen personally identifying information and were under the control of the defendants. As part of the fraud, one victim in the Western District of Pennsylvania was caused to liquidate retirement accounts exceeding $1.2 million in value. But, as part of the investigation, investigators seized more than $1 million in cryptocurrency that can be remitted to the victims.
Over the past year, the Department also pursued cases against the perpetrators of “grandparent scams,” otherwise known as “person-in-need scams.” These scams typically begin when a fraudster, often based overseas, contacts an older adult and poses as either a grandchild, other family member or someone calling on behalf of a family member. Call recipients are told that their family member is in jeopardy and is urgently in need of money. When recently sentencing one of eight perpetrators of a grandparent scam indicted under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, a federal judge described such scams “heartbreakingly evil.” The Department is working with government partners and others to raise awareness about these schemes.
Since November 2021, six individuals have been indicted for their role in executing grandparent scams in Pittsburgh and elsewhere. Three of these individuals had targeted Pittsburgh in September 2021 with a grandparent scam that had also been active in New Hampshire. The other three defendants targeted Pittsburgh in February 2022, as well as communities in Tennessee, Georgia, and other locations.
Reporting from consumers about fraud and fraud attempts is critical to law enforcements efforts to investigate and prosecute schemes targeting older adults. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833 FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Department of Justice Hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professional who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting or connect them with agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available. More information about the Department’s elder justice efforts can be found on the Department’s Elder Justice website, www.elderjustice.gov.
Some of the cases that comprise today’s announcement are charges, which are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Waterloo Man Sentenced for Possessing a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
A man who possessed a firearm as a felon was sentenced today to almost five years in federal prison.
Dorondis Cooper, age 36, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after an April 11, 2022, guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
At the guilty plea, Cooper admitted that, on December 22, 2021, he knowingly possessed a firearm, a HiPoint Model C9, 9mm handgun, as a prohibited person. On December 21, police officers responded to a residence in Waterloo regarding a report of a man with a gun. Cooper had discharged a firearm in the upstairs of the house while intoxicated. After hearing the gunshot, a resident of the house hid four minor children in a bathroom. Cooper then argued with the resident, who was standing between Cooper and the bathroom, while Cooper waved the gun around. Cooper drove off and was arrested when he returned to the house. Waterloo Police officers found the loaded handgun on the front passenger seat of Cooper’s car. Cooper was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he was previously convicted on May 23, 2005, of Ongoing Criminal Conduct and Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon, both felonies. In that case, Cooper and others shot into an occupied house in Waterloo, killing a woman within.
Cooper was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Cooper was sentenced to 57 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Cooper is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lisa C. Williams and Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Waterloo Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
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.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-CR-2009.
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U.S. Attorney Parker recognizes community & law enforcement in first annual awardsRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – United States Attorney Kenneth L. Parker announced seven law enforcement and community awards today.
The U.S. Attorney is presenting the awards to individuals or groups nominated for their bravery and sacrifice, law enforcement excellence, focus on violent crime, protection of children and positive impact on their communities.
“Each and every day in the Southern District of Ohio, we have community and law enforcement members working diligently to improve our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Parker. “These individuals and groups dedicate their time and talents to bettering our District and they deserve to be recognized.”
The awardees include:
Kaia Grant Badge of Bravery and Sacrifice Award
Deputy U.S. Marshal David Youngless, Jr.
On Dec. 8, 2021, the United States Marshals Service (USMS) Southern District of Ohio, Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (SOFAST) conducted a fugitive investigation for an individual wanted by the Columbus Division of Police for robbery.
During the search, the team encountered the fugitive in a bedroom on the second floor of the home. As the officers were taking her into custody, her male companion, who was hiding in a nearby closet, opened fire and shot Deputy United States Marshal David Youngless Jr., the team leader of Columbus SOFAST.
“Deputy Youngless’ professionalism and bravery was evident in the way he stayed in control of the team. Deputy Youngless remained poised and continued to direct the actions of the team while calming both the team and others inside the home,” said U.S. Attorney Parker.
The bullet that struck Deputy Youngless entered through his arm, ricocheted off his spine breaking two vertebrae, and lodged in his chest. Deputy Youngless spent four nights in the hospital before being released.
Law Enforcement Excellence
Sgt. Shawn Gruber (Columbus Division of Police)
Sgt. Gruber led the Zone 2 Summer Safety Initiative in Columbus. During a six-week period, Sgt. Gruber and his team recovered 17 firearms, including an automatic weapon, from numerous known gang members. The seized weapons helped further unsolved homicide investigations.
Sgt. Gruber and his team made 35 felony arrests and seized at least half a kilogram of crack cocaine along with numerous other narcotics.
Project Safe Neighborhood’s Guardian Award
Det. & Task Force Officer Sam Chappell (Columbus Division of Police)
Every firearm recovered in the city of Columbus includes a report that is reviewed by Columbus Division of Police Detective and ATF Task Force Officer Sam Chappell. TFO Chappell then gathers and presents all related information to state and federal prosecutors to determine the most appropriate venue for potential prosecution. Many of the cases TFO Chappell has opened in 2022 are domestic violence related.
One of TFO Chappell’s firearms trafficking cases led to the seizure of 31 firearms from one home that were slated to be sold on open forums to anyone who wanted them.
Project Safe Childhood Shield of Innocence
Det. & Task Force Officer Brett Peachey (Westerville Division of Police)
Westerville Detective Brett Peachey has been a dedicated Task Force Officer with the FBI’s Crimes Against Children Unit and the Franklin County Internet Crimes Against Children task force for nearly 14 of his 27 years of law enforcement service.
During his tenure, TFO Peachey has arrested hundreds of child pornography offenders and rescued countless children. He’s stopped numerous dangerous pedophiles through undercover online chat communications and continues to tirelessly pursue the most heinous offenders.
Polaris Community Service Award
Maj. Brian Johns (Dayton Police Department)
Maj. Brian Johns, Commander of the Investigations Division, was awarded the Polaris Community Service Award for his role in an innovative new program aimed at helping youth recover from trauma.
In 2022, the Dayton Police Department organized a special summer program for local youths that have experienced trauma either through being a victim or witness to a crime, or the loss of a parent or close loved one to violence or overdose. The Youth Recovery Outdoor Summer Program featured eight days of outdoor activities throughout the summer months (one day per week over eight weeks), allowing them to find positive ways to deal with stress and loss, learn a new hobby or skill, increase self-confidence, and spend time with other youths going through similar situations.
Maj. Johns was nominated by the Dayton YWCA, writing, “Having the opportunity to connect the youth we serve with a program tailored to their needs and considerate of their challenges – a program that reinforces that they are seen, heard, and valued – is life-changing, and helps to expedite the healing process.”
Five children in the YWCA’s domestic violence shelters participated in this summer’s program.
Serve Thy Neighbor Award
FBI Cincinnati Citizens’ Academy Alumni Association
The FBICCAAA is a nonprofit organization separate and apart from the FBI that is comprised of graduates from the FBI’s Citizens Academy program who wish to support area law enforcement organizations and give back to the community. In recent years, the nonprofit group has had a positive impact on the community by raising awareness of human trafficking in Southern Ohio.
For the last two years, the group has held a fundraising event to support anti-trafficking programs in our area. More than $6,000 has been donated to End Slavery Cincinnati, Hope House in Dayton, and Out of Darkness in Columbus. This total does not include funds raised at the third annual event that occurred on Oct. 2 at Topgolf in Cincinnati.
The FBICCAAA raised funds to purchase backpacks and supplies that could be given to women served by the Survivor Advocacy Outreach Program (SAOP) in Nelsonville, Ohio. SAOP works with survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence in seven southeastern Ohio counties. Members of the FBICCAAA put together 50 survivor backpacks filled with comfort items, toiletries, snacks, and other necessities. SAOP plans to distribute the backpacks throughout Southeast Ohio to sex trafficking victims, many of whom are homeless and have little or nothing of their own.
Serve Thy Neighbor Award
Malissa Thomas-St. Clair (Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children)
Malissa Thomas-St. Clair, the president and founder of Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children, coordinates a small army of mothers affectionately referred to as Sister Soldiers.
“Tragically, admission to the group is predicated by the most unthinkable act – a mother losing a child to violence,” said U.S. Attorney Parker. “Ms. Thomas-St. Clair has taken her own personal loss and turned the pain into a vehicle to advocate for others.”
Ms. Thomas-St. Clair has created a powerful support network for those losing a loved one to violence. These ladies, often dressed in orange and camouflage, tirelessly take to the streets to advocate for violence reduction and improved relations between the police and the community
“Each award recipient in this first annual set of law enforcement awards highlights that we make better, stronger communities when we work together,” added U.S. Attorney Parker. “I’m proud to work alongside such innovative and devoted members of our community, law enforcement and otherwise.”
For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s annual law enforcement awards, please contact Law Enforcement Coordinator Mitchell Seckman at 614-469-5715.
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Two men sentenced after selling drugs in Home Depot parking lotRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A local man and Mexican national have been ordered to federal prison following their roles in a conspiracy to distribute 42.5 kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Frederico Hernandez, 29, Tamaulipas, Mexico, and Miguel Angel Cruz-Recio, 44, Laredo, pleaded guilty Oct. 2, 2019.
Today, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo handed Cruz-Recio a sentence of 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. Hernandez was previously sentenced to 40 months. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his incarceration. At the hearings, the court heard evidence including the high amount of drugs found. While imposing the sentences, Judge Marmolejo noted the seriousness of the crime.
At the time of their pleas, both men admitted that on June 7, 2019, they conducted a drug transaction involving 5.5 kilograms of cocaine at a Home Depot parking lot located in Laredo.
Hernandez had left the scene but authorities attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle Cruz-Recio was driving. That ultimately led to a brief police chase that ended as he crashed his vehicle into a telephone pole. He attempted to flee on foot, but was soon apprehended.
Authorities later discovered an additional 37 kilograms of cocaine and a handgun at Cruz-Recio’s residence. Law enforcement apprehended Hernandez as he attempted to apply for entry into Laredo from Mexico at the Gateway to the Americas Bridge.
Hernandez and Cruz-Recio have been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Laredo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Harrison is prosecuting the case.
Tulsa Man Sentenced to over 8 Years in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
FAYETTEVILLE – A Tulsa, Oklahoma man was sentenced today to 100 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release on one count of Distribution of Heroin. The Honorable Judge Timothy L. Brooks presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Fayetteville.
According to court documents, detectives with the Benton County Drug Unit and 4th Judicial District Drug Task Force received information that Jeremy Burns Dodson, age 43, was distributing heroin in the Northwest Arkansas area. Beginning in the month of November of 2020, detectives conducted multiple controlled purchases of heroin from Dodson.
The heroin purchased was tested by the Arkansas State Crime laboratory and was confirmed to be heroin.
U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement.
The Benton County Drug Unit and the 4th Judicial District Drug Task Force investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Eaton prosecuted the case.
Tulsa Man Charged After Attacking a Church Employee and Throwing Two Molotov Cocktails at the ChurchRead the Press Release
UPDATE
The defendant in this case, Daniel Christopher Edwards, is found not guilty only by reason of insanity of the crimes charged in the Superseding Indictment. Edwards is hereby committed to the custody of the Attorney General for placement in a suitable facility until he is eligible for release, pursuant to statute.
A Tulsa man who allegedly attacked a church employee then threw two Molotov cocktails at Holy Family Cathedral Church in Tulsa has been charged in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Daniel Christopher Edwards was charged with unlawful possession of an unregistered incendiary bomb.
According to the Criminal Complaint, on the afternoon of Oct. 5, 2022, first responders were called about the incident and arrived at the church, located at 820 S. Boulder Avenue in Tulsa. A church employee was found with defensive laceration wounds in the basement of the Holy Family Classical School and was transported to a hospital where he underwent surgery for his injuries. Tulsa police and ATF personnel then retrieved surveillance video from the church that captured the attack.
The video showed Edwards bringing a red and white cooler into a breezeway on the side of the church. The church employee made initial contact with the Edwards who then allegedly pulled a sword from inside his clothing and began attacking the employee the weapon. The victim fled back into the church.
The video showed Edwards walking back to the cooler and pulling a glass object from it. He then allegedly lit a piece of fabric, which functioned as a wick, on fire. This type of device is commonly referred to as a Molotov cocktail. After lighting the suspected Molotov cocktail on fire, Edwards then threw it at the church’s exterior wall. When it hit the wall, the Molotov cocktail ignited. He subsequently lit another suspected Molotov cocktail and threw it toward the church. Edwards then left the scene, leaving behind the cooler which also caught fire.
Law enforcement later located and apprehended Edwards at a Reasor’s grocery store located on Sheridan Road in Tulsa.
This matter will proceed in U.S. District Court in Tulsa, where the Complaint is currently pending. A Complaint is a temporary charge alleging a violation of law. For the case to proceed to trial, the United States must present the charge to a federal Grand Jury within 30 days. Once a Grand Jury returns an Indictment, a defendant has a right to a jury trial at which the United States would have the burden of proving the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Tulsa Police Department, and FBI are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert T. Raley is prosecuting the case. AUSA Raley is the National Security Anti-Terrorism (ATAC) prosecutor for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Oklahoma.
Tijuana Man Pleads Guilty to “Double-Broker” Scheme Targeting San Diego TruckersRead the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorney Joseph Green (619) 546-6955
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – October 6, 2022
SAN DIEGO – Tijuana resident Alexis Castillo Padilla pleaded guilty in federal court today to criminal charges stemming from his scheme to defraud interstate carriers and brokers operating in the trucking industry.
According to his plea agreement, Padilla conducted what is known as a “double-broker” scheme. As a part of the scheme, Padilla stole the identity of a Spring Valley interstate carrier and agreed to make deliveries using the company’s stolen identity. Then, rather than delivering the loads, Padilla posed as a shipper and re-brokered the same loads to other carriers who delivered the freight. Padilla then collected the payments for the completed deliveries but did not pay the carriers who actually delivered the loads and were unaware that Padilla was running a double-broker scheme. Padilla orchestrated most of the scheme from Tijuana, Mexico.
Padilla pleaded guilty to these charges following his extradition to the United States from Italy. Padilla was arrested in Italy and extradited to the United States on May 27, 2022. As a part of his plea agreement, Padilla has agreed to pay restitution to his victims, estimated to be at least $239,904.
“Padilla used deceit and deception to defraud freight brokers and interstate carriers trying to make an honest living moving goods throughout the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman. “He will now be held to account for his crimes even though they were committed from outside the United States.” Grossman commended the prosecution team as well as the Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General agents for investigating and prosecuting this case.”
“Today’s guilty plea demonstrates our commitment to detecting and pursuing those who engage in egregious acts of fraud that negatively affect both businesses and consumers,” said Andrea M. Kropf, Special Agent-In-Charge, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Midwestern Region. “We are proud of our work with our prosecutorial partners in putting an end to this very complex ‘double-broker’ scheme.”
Padilla is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Houston on December 7, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. before U.S. District Judge John A. Houston.
DEFENDANT Case Number 19CR1611-JAH
Alexis Castillo Padilla Age 45 Tijuana, Mexico
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Counts 1-4: Wire Fraud, 18 U.S.C. § 1343
Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison, $250,000 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Delivering Contraband to Prison via DroneRead the Press Release
A Smithville man plead guilty Wednesday to flying a drone loaded with drugs and other contraband into prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Chad E. Meacham.
Bryant LeRay Henderson, 42, was charged via criminal complaint in August. Yesterday, he pleaded guilty to a criminal information charging one count of attempt to provide contraband to a prisoner before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey L. Cureton.
“Contraband drone deliveries are quickly becoming the bane of prison officials’ existence. Illicit goods pose a threat to guards and inmates alike – and when it comes to cell phones, the threat often extends outside prison walls. We are determined to stop this trend in its tracks,” said U.S. Attorney Chad Meacham.
“The criminal element will always take advantage of new opportunities for illegal activity as technology progresses,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno. “In this instance, excellent collaborative investigation among federal and local agencies led to federal charges and prevented contraband from entering the federal prison system.”
In plea papers, Mr. Henderson admitted to flying a drone loaded with contraband – including methamphetamine, THC, tobacco, cell phones, and mp3 players – into the airspace of FMC Fort Worth, a federal correctional center in the south part of the city. He admitted he knew the drone was carrying prohibited items and that he piloted it.
According to court documents, the drone, DJI inspire, crashed inside a secure, fenced-in yard near the prison’s HVAC shop, where staff recovered it.
Law enforcement pulled surveillance video from a nearby high school and observed a Mr. Henderson drive up in a red Chevy Taho, remove a drone and a package from the vehicle, launch the drone towards the prison, and then drive off.
Shortly thereafter, they recovered the Chevy, where they found a DJI drone controller, various drone accessories (rechargeable batteries, a propeller box, and dropping mechanisms), and 18 smartphones.
They powered on the controller recovered from the car next to the drone recovered from the prison yard. The devices immediately paired.
From the drone, investigators recovered 70 usable flight logs, which included date/time stamps as well as speed, height, and location data. They identified four flights that intruded into FMC Fort Worth’s airspace, and another two that intruded into airspace over FCI Seagoville, another federal correctional center southeast of Dallas.
Law enforcement then queried Mr. Henderson’s cell records and found that the phone was near FMC Fort Worth around the time of the drone cash, and near FCI Seagoville near the time of the drone’s flight into the prison’s airspace.
The Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General queried the FAA’s database and reported that Mr. Henderson did not possess an airman’s certification, and that the drone in question was registered to another owner who cancelled his registration in August 2018. FAA records confirmed that the federal correctional institutions were restricted flight areas.
Mr. Henderson now faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
Drone delivery of contraband is an increasingly vexing problem for the Federal Bureau of Prisons and state corrections officials. Just last month, a 44-year-old Houston man was charged in the Eastern District of Texas for allegedly operating a drone over FCI Beaumont in east Texas. In April, a 30-year-old former inmate pleaded guilty to conspiring to smuggle phones and tobacco into FCI Fort Dix in New Jersey. And last fall, three Atlanta men were sentenced to a year each in federal prison for using drones to smuggle contraband into Telfair State Prison in Georgia.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office – Fort Worth Resident Agency, the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Staff, and the Fort Worth Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the Dallas Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Levi Thomas is prosecuting the case.
State Prison Inmate Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal Prison for Smuggling Methamphetamine into Pelican Bay State PrisonRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Patrick Botello, 36, of Richmond, was sentenced today to 11 years and three months in prison for participating in a conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Botello and another inmate incarcerated at California’s Pelican Bay State Prison arranged with four people outside the prison to obtain methamphetamine and heroin, conceal the drugs within balloons, and then smuggle the drugs into the prison.
Botello was one of 27 federal defendants arrested in February 2018 on narcotics and weapons-related charges as part of Operation Silent Night, a multi‑agency law enforcement investigation into coordinated criminal activity in Woodland. Beginning in the spring of 2016, the investigation uncovered organized criminal activity in Woodland with ties to criminal organizations in California’s jail and prison system. Although centered in Yolo County, the investigation revealed that at least nine other California counties were negatively impacted by these criminal organizations: Sacramento, Sutter, Colusa, Yuba, Del Norte, Solano, Fresno, Santa Clara, and Siskiyou.
Operation Silent Night is the product of an investigation by the FBI, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, the Woodland Police Department, and the California Highway Patrol. The following agencies provided substantial assistance: the Colusa County Sheriff’s Office, the Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, the West Sacramento Police Department, the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office, the Davis Police Department, the Yuba City Police Department, the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office, the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office, the Solano County Sheriff’s Office, the Vacaville Police Department, the Correctional Intelligence Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Lee is prosecuting the cases.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
St. Louis County Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Selling Fentanyl That Killed Pregnant WomanRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp on Thursday sentenced a man from St. Louis County to 12 years in prison for selling the fentanyl that killed a pregnant woman in 2018.
Judge Schelp also ordered Raymond Blankenship, 27, to pay restitution of $10,300 to the victim’s mother.
Blankenship sold fentanyl capsules to the woman on Sept. 17, 2018. She originally tried to buy a painkiller from Blankenship via Facebook Messenger. Blankenship said he was out, but would call someone else to see if they had any drugs. They later arranged to meet. Blankenship knew he was providing the victim fentanyl, and knew she was pregnant.
She died a few hours later of acute fentanyl intoxication. The victim’s family found her after the overdose but was unable to save her. She left behind a young son.
“Our world is forever changed,” one of the victim’s relatives told Judge Schelp Thursday. “Fentanyl is the work of the devil.”
After the woman’s death, St. Louis County police detectives posed as the woman and arranged to buy more drugs from Blankenship. When police tried to arrest him, Blankenship ran and swallowed some capsules containing fentanyl.
The case was investigated by the St. Louis County Police Department.
St. Charles County Man Admits Downloading and Sharing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A man from St. Peters, Missouri on Thursday admitted downloading and sharing child pornography via a variety of social media apps.
Eric Crews, 37, pleaded guilty to a charge of possession of child pornography in front of U.S. District Judge Rodney W. Sippel. Crews admitted using social media to send and receive child pornography, including via large group chats.
The investigation began when Crews uploaded 14 files containing child sexual abuse material to Kik Messenger on Nov. 11, 2020, and shared them with at least one other Kik user.
A tip from the messaging app to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children resulted in a court-approved search of Crews’ home by St. Charles County police on June 15, 2021. Investigators found at least 5,400 images and 610 videos containing child pornography on Crews’ Apple iPhone. Also on the phone was evidence of Crews’ use of Viber, WhatsApp and TamTam accounts to obtain child sexual abuse material, his plea agreement says.
Crews could face up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both when sentenced January 6.
The St. Charles County Police Department and the FBI investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
St. Bernard Parish Man Admits to Student Aid Fraud of over $74,000Read the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ROBERT JOHN, age 46, from St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana, pled guilty on to conspiring to commit student aid fraud.
According to court documents, JOHN conspired with others to submit fraudulent applications for student loans and grants to two local community colleges, using the names of seven different applicants. In total, the Department of Education paid over $74,000 in loan and grant funds in connection with the fraudulent applications. The applications contained false information for all applicants, and several of the applicants did not even qualify for community college because they had not graduated high school or obtained GEDs.
JOHN faces up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain to JOHN or the gross loss to any victims, as well as a mandatory $100 special assessment fee per count. Under the terms of the plea agreement, JOHN agreed to pay back $74,576.10 to the Department of Education as restitution. Judge Lance M. Africk set the sentencing hearing for January 11, 2023.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Education Office of Inspector General and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses is in charge of the prosecution.
Southern Oregon Man Twice Convicted for Involvement in Shootings Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
MEDFORD, Ore.—A Medford man with previous felony convictions for his involvement in two Medford area shootings was sentenced to federal prison today after he was found by police in possession of a firearm.
Hunter Talon Marlow, 26, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.
According to court documents, on October 20, 2021, a witness contacted law enforcement after observing Marlow actively searching for a person who had shot at him in an attempt to retaliate. Marlow, who was previously convicted and served time in prison for shootings in 2014 and 2017, was prohibited from using or possessing a firearm. Later on October 20th, an officer from the Medford Police Department observed Marlow driving and attempted a felony traffic stop. After initially refusing to comply, Marlow surrendered to offices and was arrested. Officers found a loaded semi-automatic pistol with attached forty-round drum magazine in Marlow’s car.
On February 3, 2022, a federal grand jury in Medford returned an indictment charging Marlow with illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. On June 22, 2022, Marlow pleaded guilty to the single charge.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Medford Police Department. It was prosecuted by Marco Boccato, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
South Bend Man Sentenced to 100 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Shamond Jenkins, 20 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after being found guilty by a jury in December 2021, of bank robbery, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Jenkins was sentenced to 100 months in prison, 2 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $1,965 in restitution.
According to documents in the case, in December 2020, Jenkins went to a bank and handed over a note threatening to kill an employee if the employee did not give him cash. As employees were gathering cash out of the teller drawers to give to Jenkins, he repeatedly told them he was prepared to kill them. He fled with the cash and was arrested in January 2021.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the South Bend Police Department and the Mishawaka Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel R. Gabrielse.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Sioux City Man Sentenced to over Ten Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A Sioux City man who possessed child pornography was sentenced October 5, 2022, to 13 years in federal prison. Mario Josue Reyes, age 22, received the prison term after a May 4, 2022, guilty plea to two counts of possession of child pornography.
In a plea agreement, Reyes admitted to possessing child pornography. Reyes admitted to using a phone to video himself engaged in sexual conduct with a minor child who was 12 and 13 at the time of the incidents. Reyes also admitted to giving the minor marijuana and LSD.
Reyes was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Reyes was sentenced to 156 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe 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.”
Reyes is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 22-4011.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Second Conspirator in Kidnapping Plot Who Cooperated Gets Four Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Kaleb Franks testified in both federal trials
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan announced today that Kaleb Franks, one of four conspirators convicted of plotting to kidnap the Governor of Michigan, was sentenced to 48 months (4 years) in federal prison, to be followed by three years of court supervision. In addition, he is required to pay a fine of $2,500.
Franks pled guilty early this year and agreed to cooperate with the government. Though he faced up to life in prison, the Hon. Robert J. Jonker, District Judge, determined the ultimate sentence after evaluating Franks’ assistance to the government and the applicable federal Sentencing Guidelines, and considering the statutory sentencing factors, including the nature and circumstances of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; the seriousness of the offense; and the need to promote respect for the law, to provide just punishment, and protect the public from future crimes of the defendant.
Franks testified at both federal trials, which cumulatively resulted in the convictions of co-defendants Adam Fox and Barry Croft and the acquittals of Daniel Harris and Brandon Caserta. Ty Garbin was the first to plead guilty and cooperate. Garbin initially received a sentence of 75 months (6¼ years) in prison, which the district court later reduced to a term of 30 months (2½ years) in prison after fully considering his cooperation at both trials. Fox and Croft await sentencing in December.
The FBI’s Detroit Field Office investigated the case with valuable assistance provided by the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office and the Joint Terrorism Task Force, including Michigan State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan charged the case and conducted the trials, with valuable assistance provided by the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
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Schofield Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Making False Statements During Purchase of FirearmsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Kyle Ritchie, 31, Schofield, Wisconsin was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 24 months in federal prison for making false statements during the purchase of firearms. This prison term will be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Ritchie pleaded guilty to this charge on July 15, 2022.
Between May 23 and 28, 2021, Ritchie purchased four firearms from federally licensed firearm dealers in the Wausau, Wisconsin area. In order to complete the purchases of these firearms, the defendant represented that he was the actual buyer of these firearms when in fact he was not. An investigation by law enforcement revealed Ritchie purchased these firearms for Victor Pennington, who in exchange provided methamphetamine to Ritchie.
Pennington, who is prohibited from purchasing firearms as a result of multiple Wisconsin felony convictions, pleaded guilty to a federal charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine on September 27, 2022. Pennington will be sentenced by Judge Conley on January 4, 2023.
At the sentencing hearing, Judge Conley stated that the seriousness of the defendant’s offense warranted a prison sentence, despite the fact he has not before served a prison sentence. Judge Conley also found that Ritchie knew he was purchasing guns for a known drug dealer, and that the defendant’s own addiction did not excuse his crimes.
The charge against Ritchie was a result of an investigation conducted by the Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force; Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation; and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution of this case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Taylor L. Kraus.
Rutland Woman Charged with Convenience Store RobberyRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that Ashley Lobdell, 25, of Rutland, Vermont was arrested last night for interfering with commerce by robbery. Lobdell was charged today by Criminal Complaint, and is scheduled to appear tomorrow before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle.
According to court records, Lobdell is accused of robbing the Jolley Mart store located at 128 Grove Street on September 25, 2022. Lobdell is alleged to have displayed a large steak knife to the clerk, and demanded cash from the register. Investigators were able to use surveillance video from the area of the robbery to identify Lobdell as the robber.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a Criminal Complaint contains allegations only and that Lobdell remains presumed innocent until and unless she is convicted of a crime. Lobdell faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment on the robbery charge.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Rutland City Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Ophardt. Lobdell is represented by Mark Oettinger, Esq.
Rutland Man Charged with Convenience Store RobberyRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that David R. Markie, 40, of Rutland, Vermont was arrested last night for interfering with commerce by robbery. Markie was charged today by Criminal Complaint, and is scheduled to appear tomorrow before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle.
According to court records, Markie is accused of robbing the Jiffy Mart store located at 215 North Main Street in Rutland on October 3, 2022. Markie is alleged to have worn a lime-green face covering in the store while displaying a knife and demanding cash from the register. Investigators were able to locate the distinctive mask and to link Markie to discarded clothing consistent with the clothing worn by the robber.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a Criminal Complaint contains allegations only and that Markie remains presumed innocent until and unless he is convicted of a crime. Markie faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment on the robbery charge.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Rutland City Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations.
The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Ophardt. Markie is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.
Rocky Mount Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm Charges After Shooting into Multiple Homes and VehiclesRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – Jaquan Raqueze Harris, 27, man pleaded guilty today to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. For this charge, Harris faces up to ten (10) years’ imprisonment. Harris is from Rocky Mount, North Carolina.
According to information presented in court and court documents, Harris illegally possessed a firearm when he shot indiscriminately into multiple homes along Parkridge Road and Walbrook Court, in Rocky Mount. On May 19, 2021, the Rocky Mount Police Department responded to a Shots Fired call at the corner of the 1700 block of Parkridge Road. Witnesses on scene advised they heard between 20 and 30 gunshots in a rapid succession late at night. Multiple residents on the block had projectiles strike and enter their homes and vehicles. Officers recovered over 25 spent shell casings and a semi-automatic rifle at the crime scene. Surveillance footage from a resident’s home security system captured Harris behind the home and armed with a black-in-color semi-automatic rifle. Harris is observed yelling and firing his rifle indiscriminately before fleeing the scene on foot and discarding the rifle. Rocky Mount Police arrested Harris the next day. Ballistics testing confirmed the spent shell casings from the crime scene matched the rifle Harris left at the crime scene. Harris was a convicted felon at the time and was prohibited from possessing firearms.
The conviction is a result of the ongoing Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) initiative which is collaborative effort with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, working with the community, to identify and address the most significant drivers of violent crime. Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert B. Jones, Jr. accepted the plea. The Rocky Mount Police Department, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Aakash Singh is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:22-CR-120-FL.
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Rocky Mount Man Faces 10 Years in Prison after Pleading Guilty to Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – Kelvin Earl Pittman, 46, pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and firearm charges. For these charges, Pittman faces a mandatory sentence of ten (10) years’ imprisonment. Pittman is from Rocky Mount, North Carolina.
According to information presented in court and court documents, Pittman conspired with others to sell guns and cocaine base (crack) illegally in Rocky Mount between August 2020 and January 2021. The Nash County Sheriff’s Office’s investigation captured Pittman on video conducting multiple drug and firearm sales from his residence. Pittman held himself out as a dealer of firearms and provided discounts to buyers if they purchased drugs and firearms together. In total, the Sheriff’s Office seized over an ounce of cocaine base (crack) and four (4) firearms from Pittman. Pittman was a convicted felon at the time and was prohibited from possessing firearms.
Pittman pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute 28 Grams or More of Cocaine Base (Crack), Distribution of a Quantity of Cocaine Base (Crack), Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Possession of Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
The conviction is a result of the ongoing Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) initiative which is collaborative effort with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, working with the community, to identify and address the most significant drivers of violent crime. Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert B. Jones, Jr. accepted the plea. The Nash County Sheriff’s Office, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Aakash Singh is prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:21-CR-71-FL.
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Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Narcotics Conspiracy and Gun ChargeRead 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 Timothy Jacobs a/k/a Dollar, 44, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty to narcotics conspiracy and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassie Kocher, who is handling the case, stated that Jacobs was a member of a narcotics conspiracy between 2019 and September 29, 2021. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Jacobs obtained quantities of cocaine from co-conspirators and distributed the cocaine from a Lewis Street residence in Rochester. He also stored cocaine and firearms at that location. On September 29, 2021, investigators executed a search warrant at the Lewis Street residence and recovered a loaded a ghost gun and approximately 20 grams of cocaine, as well as cocaine packaged for sale.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino. Additional assistance was provided by the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney Sandra Doorley.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 6, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. before Judge Geraci.
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Rochester Man Going to Prison for Transferring Shotgun and Ammunition to Convicted FelonRead 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 Donald P. Oshier, 56, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of transferring a firearm and ammunition to a convicted felon, was sentenced to serve 12 months in prison by U.S. District Judge David G. Larimer.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett A. Harvey, who handled the case, stated that, on October 27, 2020, Oshier gave a 12-gauge shotgun and 25 rounds of ammunition to Stephen Pattison, knowing that Pattison was previously been convicted of a felony. Pattison was convicted of Domestic Assault in the Second Degree in Boone County, Missouri, in December 2016, and was legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. In addition, Oshier knew that Pattison wanted the shotgun and ammunition for the purpose of shooting Black Lives Matter (BLM) and/or Antifa protesters if they came to his neighborhood, and that Pattison had previously threatened BLM and Antifa protesters with physical harm. Pattison had previously stated, “Go ahead n*****, defund the police so . . . so I can just start (expletive) murderin’ you all in a genocidal rate by (expletive) myself. They’ll be callin’ me the angel of death. They’ll be callin’ me the new Josef Mengele.” Pattison was charged and convicted of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition and sentenced to serve 96 months in prison. Pattison’s girlfriend, Rochelle Pfenninger, was convicted of making false statements to the FBI during the investigation, and sentenced to probation with six month of home confinement.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Joint Terrorism Task Force of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
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Red Springs Pharmacy Owner Pleads Guilty in Healthcare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – James Craig Bell, 63, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to defraud Medicare, North Carolina Medicaid, and private health insurers through his pharmacy in Red Springs that operated under the name Townsend’s Pharmacy.
“This defendant lined his own pockets with money intended to provide vital prescription drugs for the poor and disadvantaged,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “We will continue to investigate and prosecute shady schemes like this.”
“Submitting false and excessive claims to Medicare and Medicaid undermines the integrity of federal health care programs and wastes valuable taxpayer dollars,” said Tamala E. Miles, Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG works tirelessly along with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable perpetrators of federal health care fraud.”
“Medications are expensive enough without pharmacy owners defrauding Medicaid and ripping off taxpayers,” said Attorney General Josh Stein. “These resources are meant to help people get the care and prescriptions they need. I’m grateful for U.S. Attorney Easley and his office’s partnership with my Medicaid Investigations team to hold accountable health care providers who waste these resources.”
According to the criminal information and evidence summarized in Court, beginning as early as 2006 through July 2017, Bell, acting through Townsend’s Pharmacy, billed Medicare, Medicaid, and various private health plans for prescription drugs that were never actually dispensed by the pharmacy. Bell conspired with his employee, Melisha West, 51, of Raleigh. West began independently running the pharmacy’s operations while Bell continued to knowingly profit from the fraudulent billing practices. West pleaded guilty to Healthcare Fraud in January 2022 for her role in the scheme and her sentencing hearing is set for the January 3, 2023 term of court. Bell had trained West and other employees on how to bill health care benefit plans for drugs that were not authorized or dispensed. Bell also trained employees to falsely reauthorize a previously existing prescription from a licensed medical professional, and, how to falsely bill health care benefit programs as though a drug had been dispensed.
Bell pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Healthcare Fraud. He faces up to 10 years in prison and a potential fine. Sentencing before United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan is scheduled to occur early next year.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after United States Magistrate Judge Robert Jones accepted the plea. The United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General and the North Carolina Medicaid Criminal Investigation Unit are investigating the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys William M. Gilmore and David G. Beraka are prosecuting the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:22-cr-107-FL.
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Rapid City Man Indicted on Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and False Statement During Purchase of a Firearm.
Marshall Gibbons, age 22, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on October 5, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Between January 2021 and January 2022, in Rapid City, Gibbons, while conspiring to distribute marijuana, was in possession of a Glock 9mm pistol. Gibbons also made a false written statement while trying to purchase another firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The charges are merely an accusation and Gibbons is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Gibbons was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Dustin Huseby, age 24, was indicted in September of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on October 5, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
In May of 2022, in Rapid City, Huseby, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, possessed a Smith & Wesson, model M&P 9 M2.0, 9x19mm Luger caliber, which was found after Huseby came into contact with law enforcement.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The charge is merely an accusation and Huseby is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Huseby was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Ralls County Woman Admits Embezzling $1.2 millionRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A woman from Ralls County, Missouri on Thursday admitted embezzling more than $1.2 million from her employer over six years.
Stephanie D. Carper, 51, admitted taking advantage of her position as secretary of a family-owned Ralls County agricultural business to write checks to herself. From September 2013 to September 2019, Carper filled in her own name on at least 44 checks that had been pre-signed by the company’s owner and his relatives so they could be used to pay vendors, Carper’s plea agreement says. Carper then wrote in false explanations on bank deposit slips and the check registry to conceal her thefts.
Carper used the money to buy a 2015 Nissan Murano SUV, a 2016 Toyota Tundra pickup, a Caterpillar 247 skid loader and vacations to Alaska and elsewhere, the plea agreement says.
Carper, who has since moved to Eufaula, Alabama, pleaded guilty in front of U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey to a felony bank fraud charge. At her sentencing, scheduled for January 9, Carper could face up to 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. She will also be ordered to repay the money.
The FBI investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman prosecuted the case.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced to 10 years imprisonment and six years of supervised release on charges of violating federal firearms and drug laws, United States Attorney Cindy K Chung announced today.
United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on Vaughn Parker, age 40, of the City’s Lincoln-Lemington-Belmar neighborhood.
According to information presented to the Court, on April 1, 2021, detectives with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police executed a search warrant on a residence located on Pointview Street, in the Homewood section of the City of Pittsburgh. Parker was located inside of the residence and took ownership of anything found on the first floor. During the search of the first-floor detectives located quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, and fentanyl consistent to drug dealing. Additionally, detectives located drug packaging materials in the kitchen area along with a stolen loaded semi-auto handgun that was determined to be possessed by Parker in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Ball prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Vaughn Parker.
Pediatric Dentist and Affiliated Practices to Pay over $750,000 to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
NOTE: The quote from the U.S. Attorney in the press release below has been updated to clarify that the settlement is based on allegations.
NEWARK, N.J. – Pediatric Dentist Barry L. Jacobson and his company, HQRC Management Services LLC (HQRC), along with 13 affiliated pediatric dentistry practices, agreed to pay $753,457 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by allegedly performing and billing for medically unnecessary therapeutic pulpotomies on pediatric patients, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
The settlement, which is the result of a joint investigation between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the New York Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), also resolves allegations that defendants provided inaccurate servicing provider information on claims submitted to Medicaid managed care organizations. .
“It is unconscionable that medical professionals were allegedly willing to perform unnecessary dental procedures on children simply to make money,” U.S. Attorney Sellinger said. “Recovering their alleged ill-gotten gains only begins to undo this damage. Working with Attorney General James and our partners in the New York Attorney General’s Office, we want to make it clear that this behavior is intolerable.”
“Dr. Jacobson and HQRC allegedly performed unnecessary and invasive dental procedures on children to line their own pockets,” Attorney General Letitia James said. “My office will not tolerate any instance of medically unnecessary procedures performed on vulnerable Medicaid beneficiaries. I am grateful to U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger and team for their partnership as we investigated this fraudulent scheme.”
According to the contentions of the United States contained in the settlement agreement:
Jacobson is the chief executive officer of HQRC, now doing business as PDS Management Solutions. He is also the founder and owner of the following New York and New Jersey based Pediatric Dentistry Practices party to the agreement: Pediatric Dentistry of Paterson, Pediatric Dentistry of Teaneck, Pediatric Dentistry of Wykoff, Pediatric Dentistry of Flushing, Pediatric Dentistry of the Bronx, Pediatric Dentistry of Valley Stream, Pediatric Dentistry of Brooklyn (Avenue U), Pediatric Dentistry of Brooklyn (Boro Park), Pediatric Dentistry of Monsey, Pediatric Dentistry of Kingston, Pediatric Dentistry of Albany, Pediatric Dentistry of Malone, and North Country Pediatric Dentistry.
The settlement resolves allegations that HQRC dentists performed medically unnecessary therapeutic pulpotomies on pediatric patients. According to the United States, certain dentists performed therapeutic pulpotomies on primary teeth even though there was no dental decay in the inner third of the dentin. The defendants also provided inaccurate servicing provider information on claims for services submitted to New York and New Jersey Medicaid Managed Care Organizations.
Jacobson and the affiliated corporate defendants admit that, in some instances between 2011 and 2018, some dentists affiliated with HQRC performed and billed Medicaid for pulpotomies not supported by the medical records maintained at the respective HQRC affiliated dental practices. The defendants also admit that in some instances, between 2011 and 2014, HQRC made billing errors to New York and New Jersey Medicaid contractors that resulted in inaccurate servicing provider information on claims for services performed at three of its locations.
The allegations were originally made in a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Lauren Simpson. The Act permits private parties to sue for false claims on behalf of the United States and to share in any recovery. Simpson will receive a total of $135,622 from the federal and state shares of the settlement.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz and civil investigator Jeffrey DeFuria of the District of New Jersey’s U.S. Attorney’s Office, with the investigation leading to the settlement.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Susan Pappy of the District of New Jersey’s Health Care Fraud Unit.
The lawsuit is captioned United States of America, State of New York, and State of New Jersey, ex rel. Simpson v. HQRC Management Services, LLC, et al. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Pasco County Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting ChildrenRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday has sentenced Thomas VanGelder (40, Holiday) to 30 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, for attempted enticement of a minor and possessing child sex abuse material. The court also ordered VanGelder to forfeit the electronic devices used in the commission of the offense. Restitution for the victims will be determined at a later date. VanGelder had pleaded guilty on May 31, 2022.
According to court documents, VanGelder had been communicating online with another individual who lived in New Port Richey. During those communications, the individual sent VanGelder child sex abuse material (“CSAM”) that the individual had produced of a child who had been in his care and custody. The FBI arrested the individual, assumed his online identity, and began communicating with VanGelder in an undercover capacity.
Between May 5, 2021, and May 27, 2021, VanGelder communicated with someone who was represented to be that same individual. Unbeknownst to VanGelder, he was in fact speaking with an undercover FBI agent (“UC”). During the conversations, VanGelder sent the UC six images of CSAM and discussed his desire to meet with the UC for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with the UC’s purported child. VanGelder suggested that the UC provide the child with sleeping pills by hiding it in ice cream so VanGelder could sexually abuse the child while the child was “passed out.”
VanGelder arranged to meet with the UC on May 27, 2021, for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with the UC’s purported child. The FBI arrested VanGelder once he arrived at the predetermined location in Tampa. During an interview with agents, VanGelder attempted to solicit the help of his then live-in girlfriend to destroy a green bag that was located under his bed in his bedroom. Agents were able to seize VanGelder’s cellphone and observe that the text messages VanGelder had attempted to send did not transmit due to a lack of cell service.
The FBI obtained a search warrant for VanGelder’s residence. At the residence, agents found the green bag, which contained multiple electronic devices. A forensic analysis of an external hard drive revealed VanGelder was in possession of over 4,000 CSAM images, including images depicting prepubescent children subjected to sadomasochistic conduct and bondage. Agents also discovered that VanGelder had been coordinating with an Orlando man to create and produce CSAM of a five-year-old girl and one-year-old boy the Orlando man had in his care and custody.
“As heart wrenching as it is to learn how these predators prey on innocent children, it’s gratifying to share with the public how the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Forces are finding these perpetrators, rescuing the victims, and ensuring the abusers are brought to justice,” said FBI Tampa Division Special Agent in Charge David Walker.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Pasco Sheriff's Office and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa M. Thelwell.
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 United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.