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12 May 2022
U.S. Attorney Nicholas Brown recognizes sacrifices of law enforcement and their loved ones during Police WeekRead the Press Release
Seattle – In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Nick Brown is recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Wednesday, May 11 through Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
“This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said Attorney General Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. And we recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”
“On Friday the names of seven Washington State law enforcement officers who died in 2019, 2020, and 2021, will be added to the Memorial wall in Washington DC – among them is Seattle Police Officer Alexandra Brenneman Harris – a young officer devoted to improving police and community relations. She was struck and killed on I-5 while checking that others were uninjured,” said U.S. Attorney Brown. “To honor these officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, we must join with our communities and work tirelessly for a safe and just future.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 472 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2021. Of that number, 319 succumbed to COVID-19.
The seven officers who died in the line of duty between 2019 and 2021 in Washington State and will have their names added this week to the memorial wall in Washington DC are:
- Jeremy Robert Brown, Clark County Sheriff’s Office
- Reginald Bernard Harris, King County Sheriff’s Office
- Alexandra Brenneman Harris, Seattle Police Department
- Jon David Anderson, Spokane Police Department
- Gabriel Kyle Forrest, Washington State Corrections
- David Alan Christensen, Washington State Corrections
- Eric Thomas Gunderson, Washington State Patrol
Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents. Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year. In 2021, unprovoked attacks were the cause of 24 deaths significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting. Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program.
The names of the 619 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
CONCORD - In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Jane E. Young recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Wednesday, May 11 through Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
“This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said Attorney General Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. And we recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”
“During National Police Week, we all must reflect, with gratitude, on those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. We also must remember the families and loved ones left behind,” said United States Attorney Young. “Each day the dedicated men and women who protect our communities encounter significant risks, yet they bravely face those risks to fearlessly protect our communities, state and nation. And for that, we extend our heartfelt thanks.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 472 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2021. Of that number, 319 succumbed to COVID-19.
On October 28, 2021, New Hampshire State Police Staff Sgt. Jesse E. Sherrill died in the line of duty in the District of New Hampshire.
Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents. Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year. In 2021, unprovoked attacks[1] were the cause of 24 deaths significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting. Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program.
The names of the 619 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.
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Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice.
[1] An unprovoked attack is defined as an attack on an officer not prompted by official contact at the time of the incident between the officer and the offender. Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program.
U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Harris Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Gregory K. Harris recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local, law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Wednesday, May 11, through Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
“This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said Attorney General Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. And we recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”
“I join Attorney General Garland in paying tribute to the brave and dedicated men and women in law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Harris. “These committed public servants devote countless hours toward making our communities safe, work that all too often places them in significant peril. Tragically, here in the Central District of Illinois, we have had officers make the ultimate sacrifice. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and colleagues.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 472 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2021. Of that number, 319 succumbed to COVID-19.
The Central District of Illinois grieves the following officers who served in the district and were killed in the line of duty in 2021 and this year:
- Knox County, Illinois, Sheriff’s Deputy Nicholas D. Weist, End of Watch Date: April 29, 2022
- Bradley, Illinois, Police Department Sergeant Marlene Rittmanic, End of Watch Date: December 30, 2021
- Peoria County Illinois, Corrections Officer Camron Passie, End of Watch Date: December 5, 2021
- Champaign, Illinois, Police Officer Chris Oberheim, End of Watch Date: May 19, 2021
- Illinois State Police Senior Master Trooper Todd A. Hanneken, End of Watch Date: March 25, 2021
Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents. Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year. In 2021, unprovoked attacks [1] were the cause of 24 deaths significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting. Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program.
The names of the 619 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.
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Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice.
[1] An unprovoked attack is defined as an attack on an officer not prompted by official contact at the time of the incident between the officer and the offender. Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program.
U.S. Attorney Gonzalez Recognizes Law Enforcement Partners During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
BOISE— In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Rafael M. Gonzalez, Jr. recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Wednesday, May 11 through Tuesday, May 17, 2022
“This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said Attorney General Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. And we recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”
“I am grateful for the professionalism, dedication and quiet courage our law enforcement partners continually demonstrate under demanding and often dangerous circumstances,” said U.S. Attorney Gonzalez. “My office sees firsthand how brave men and women of law enforcement fulfill their sworn duty to uphold justice every day without question and without expectation of thanks. We want them to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation. This week, and every day, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 472 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2021. Of that number, 319 succumbed to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents. Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year. In 2021, unprovoked attacks were the cause of 24 deaths significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting. Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program.
The names of the 619 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.
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Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice
U.S. Attorney Easley Expands Civil Rights Initiative to Focus on Enforcement, Education and Community OutreachRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – United States Attorney Michael Easley today formally announced the expansion of the office’s continued efforts to enforce federal civil rights laws across Eastern North Carolina. These efforts will include an emphasis on community engagement and law enforcement training.
“Our office is committed to ensuring that all people are treated equally and fairly under the law,” said Easley. “Our Civil Rights Team will make the investigation of potential civil and criminal civil rights violations a top priority and bring appropriate action when warranted. We want the communities we serve to be free from discrimination.”
As part of the Civil Rights Initiative, the U.S. Attorney has designated a Civil Rights Team including Civil Rights Coordinators in both the Civil and Criminal Divisions as well as a designated Human Trafficking Coordinator. The Civil Division Coordinator coordinates enforcement actions related to the protection of voter rights; disability rights or access; and discrimination in housing, healthcare, lending, employment, and education. The Criminal Division Coordinator coordinates criminal enforcement actions such as the investigation and prosecution of hate crimes and color of law violations. The Human Trafficking Coordinator oversees the investigation and prosecution of trafficking crimes such as forced labor, sex trafficking of minors, and sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion. The coordinators work closely with the Office’s Chief Counsel for Litigation, who takes on special litigative projects in the area of civil rights. In addition to these dedicated prosecutors, the office will continue working with state and local law enforcement agencies and community groups to raise awareness of key civil rights issues. The Team will coordinate closely with the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and other federal agencies as needed.
As a part of its ongoing community outreach, the office has launched a new website with information about civil rights laws and details on how to submit civil rights complaints. In addition, the office is co-hosting a program on May 19 with the Apex Police Department, the Garden of Hope, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Apex to discuss the impact of human trafficking on the Asian Pacific Islander community. Beginning in June, the office is also co-hosting a series of monthly training sessions with the North Carolina Justice Academy to enhance law enforcement’s tools to avoid and manage community conflict, including training on de-escalation, use of force, community engagement, and civil rights laws. Other trainings and educational forums will be scheduled throughout the year.
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U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson Recognizes the Service and Sacrifice of Law Enforcement during National Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Clint Johnson recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement.
“This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. And we recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”
“During National Police Week, we pay tribute to the brave men and women of law enforcement serving in communities across our Nation. I want to thank our law enforcement partners on behalf of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their commitment to the betterment of our communities and to the safety of their fellow citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “We also honor the courageous and dedicated officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the American people. Their selfless devotion will not be forgotten.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 472 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2021. Of that number, 319 succumbed to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents. Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year. In 2021, unprovoked attacks[1] were the cause of 24 deaths significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting.
Approximately eleven Oklahoma officers died in the line of duty in 2021 according to the Officer Down Memorial Page and Oklahoma Law Enforcement Memorial Page. Officers include Sergeant Frank Rodriguez of the Midwest City Police Department; Patrol Officer Howard Kritzer Smith III and Patrol Officer Edgar "Buddy" Pales, Jr. of the Owasso Police Department; Sergeant John Lee Trout Sr. and Police Officer Matthew Ryan North of the Bernice Police Department; Sergeant John Arthur Harris II of the Tulsa County Sheriff's Office; Police Officer Lewis Franklin Cantey of the Grand River Dam Authority Police Department; and Corporal Kyle Jeffrey Davis of the Washington County Sheriff's Office. The Oklahoma Law Enforcement Memorial page also includes Deputy Sheriff Ray Lee Jacomo Jr. of the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office; Detention Officer Steven Rozell of the Washita County Sheriff’s Office; and Investigator Lewis Roller of the District 6 District Attorney ‘s Office.
As part of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson and Law Enforcement Coordinator Chris Witt will attend several memorial ceremonies honoring fallen officers in northeastern Oklahoma.
U.S. Attorney Johnson will speak at the Bartlesville Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office memorial on May 18 at noon. He previously attended the Tulsa Police Department memorial on May 7.
Witt will represent the U.S. Attorney’s Office at multiple memorial ceremonies:
- National Law Enforcement Memorial Week, Washington DC - 11-17 May
- Bartlesville Police Department/Washington County Sheriff’s Office - May 18
- Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office - May 19
- Oklahoma Law Enforcement - May 20
- Oklahoma City Police Department - May 20
- Witt previously attended the Tulsa Police Department memorial.
The names of the 619 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.
Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program.
[1] An unprovoked attack is defined as an attack on an officer not prompted by official contact at the time of the incident between the officer and the offender. Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program.
U.s. Attorney Sandra J. Stewart Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama— In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Sandra J. Stewart recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Wednesday, May 11 through Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
“This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said Attorney General Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. And we recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”
“The men and women that serve in law enforcement play a critical role in the safety and prosperity of our nation,” stated U.S. Attorney Stewart. “Day after day they watch over our communities and confront crime and violence where it happens, placing their own lives at risk in the process. We take time this week to honor and recognize those we have lost and thank those that continue to serve. I encourage all citizens to do just that, not only this week, but each week to come.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 472 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2021. Of that number, 319 succumbed to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents. Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year. In 2021, unprovoked attacks[1] were the cause of 24 deaths significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting. Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program.
The names of the 619 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.
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Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice.
[1] An unprovoked attack is defined as an attack on an officer not prompted by official contact at the time of the incident between the officer and the offender. Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program.
Two Western Kentucky Men Plead Guilty in Federal Court to Grain Elevator SchemeRead the Press Release
PADUCAH, KY – In the U. S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, Paducah Division, Gerald Kent Kingston, 61, of Elkton, KY and Bobby Joe Merrick, 72, of Princeton, KY pled guilty yesterday to stealing over $350,000 from a Lyon County, KY grain elevator company.
According to court documents, Kingston was formerly employed as manager at Gavilon Grain which operates a grain elevator in Eddyville, KY. Merrick is a local farmer who contracted with Gavilon Grain to sell his corn, wheat, and soybeans at the grain elevator. Between September 19, 2016, and May 5, 2021, Kingston and Merrick devised a scheme to defraud Gavilon Grain by creating multiple scale tickets for each truck load of crop that Merrick delivered. Kingston electronically submitted the scale tickets to Gavilon Grain’s headquarters in Nebraska for payment. The scheme caused Merrick to be paid twice for each truck load of crop he delivered.
During court proceedings, Kingston and Merrick admitted that Merrick was paid $354,870.11 for phantom loads of product. After receiving payment from Gavilon Grain, Merrick would make a cash payment to Kingston.
Kingston and Merrick both pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349, and five counts of wire fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343. As part of the plea agreement, they will be required to pay $354,870.11 in restitution to Gavilon Grain. Both men are scheduled to be sentenced on August 24, 2022, by U.S. District Judge Thomas B. Russell, who will determine any sentence each receives after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee.
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Two Defendants Sentenced to Prison for Pump-and-Dump Stock Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorney Aaron P. Arnzen (619) 546-8384
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – May 12, 2022
SAN DIEGO – Gannon Giguiere and Oliver Lindsay were sentenced to prison today for participating in a pump-and-dump securities fraud scheme. Lindsay, who lived in the Cayman Islands at the time of his arrest, received a 17-month prison sentence, and Giguiere, from Laguna Beach, California, was sentenced to 12 months in prison.
When Giguiere pleaded guilty in 2019, he admitted to manipulating the market for the stock of Kelvin Medical, Inc., a small medical device company. Giguiere conspired to pump up the price and volume of these stocks through manipulative trading and/or a stock promotion website designed to get unwitting investors interested in buying the stock. After the stock prices rose and he dumped the shares, Giguiere pocketed more than $1.4 million in fraudulent proceeds from these schemes. Lindsay also pleaded guilty in 2019, admitting that he engaged in manipulative trading with the same goal – to artificially increase the price and trading volume of Kelvin Medical stock.
In handing down the sentence, U.S. District Judge William Q. Hayes also ordered defendants to make restitution payments to victims of their scheme in the amount of $187,893.43.
“These are fitting sentences for defendants who caused significant harm to investors,” said U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman. “I trust that this will deter others who would participate in schemes that harm the integrity of the United States financial markets.” Grossman thanked the prosecution team and the FBI for their excellent work on this case.
“The FBI is committed to investigating those who prey on unsuspecting investors for their own financial gain,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “These defendants will now face the consequences for their coordinated investment fraud scheme.”
DEFENDANTS Case Number 18cr3071-WQH
Gannon Giguiere Age: 49 Laguna Beach, CA
Oliver Lindsay Age: 44 Vancouver, Canada
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Commit Securities Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371
AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Two Californians Indicted in Multi-Million Dollar Tech-Support Scam Targeting Elderly VictimsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - Two residents of Santa Ana, California, have been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy relating to their participation in a scheme to defraud elderly victims in the United States.
The two-count Indictment, returned on April 26, 2022, and unsealed today, named Thien Phuc Tran, 32, and Ton Huynh Bui, 29, both of Santa Ana, CA, as defendants. The brothers-in-law were arrested today in Santa Ana and will make their initial appearances this afternoon in federal court in the Central District of California.
According to the Indictment, from December 2020 to December 2021, Tran and Bui participated in a multi-million-dollar conspiracy to defraud elderly persons residing in the Western District of Pennsylvania, and elsewhere. As alleged, members of the conspiracy contacted potential victims on their computers through pop-up messages falsely purporting to be from reputable technology companies, convinced victims that their financial accounts had been compromised and that their funds needed to be moved, and subsequently gained control over the victims’ computers and personal funds. Members of the conspiracy also allegedly used stolen personally identifiable information (PII) from additional unwitting victims to open financial accounts and create email addresses to receive and move the proceeds of the fraud. Conspirators also converted stolen victim funds to cryptocurrency, and moved money through multiple accounts, including accounts affiliated with the defendants, in an attempt to conceal their fraudulent activities. The Indictment alleges that one victim in the Western District of Pennsylvania was caused to liquidate retirement accounts totaling $1,288,073.
“The Department of Justice prioritizes protecting the elderly from all types of financial crime,” said U.S. Attorney Chung. “Members of the alleged conspiracy in this case preyed on this vulnerable population by convincing victims that their personal funds were not secure and needed to be moved to other accounts controlled by the defendants. My office will continue to seek justice for these victims and hold accountable those who would perpetrate fraudulent schemes against the elderly. Indeed, one of the best ways to prevent financial fraud is to educate yourself about the many types of scams.”
“Cyber criminals are targeting our aging population at an ever-increasing rate,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “This conspiracy targeted members of the senior population in western Pennsylvania and across the United States. In some cases, these criminals have stolen the life savings of unsuspecting and trusting seniors through social engineering, computer intrusions and other means. The FBI will continue to work to put an end to these types of cyber schemes and help prevent our senior citizen population from becoming victims.”
“Cryptocurrencies are increasingly being used to facilitate illicit activities,” said U.S. Secret Service Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Timothy Burke. “We are proud to work with our partners to investigate schemes like those charged in the indictment. At the Secret Service we are committed to keeping pace with innovations in the financial system as we continue to safeguard Americans from fraud and other illicit activities.”
Millions of older Americans lose money to financial fraud and scams each year. Scammers will try to contact victims in person, on the phone, through the computer, radio, TV ads, email and text message. They often pressure targets to act quickly. But everyone has the power to stop scammers and the right to say “No.”
Six of the most common scams affecting older Americans are: • Tech Support: Scammers pose as tech support and offer to fix computer problems that are not real. They ask targets to give them access to their computer and steal their personal information.
• Posing as Utility Companies: The scammer threatens to shut off utility service if a payment is not made immediately.
• Online Shopping: Scammers pretend to be a real business but have a fake website or a fake ad on a genuine retailer’s site.
• Business Imposters: Scammers send emails or text messages pretending to be a major retailer to get your money or personal information.
• Government Impersonation: Scammers pose as government employees and threaten to arrest or prosecute targets unless they agree to pay an amount claimed to be owed to the government.
• Romance Scams: Scammers pose as interested romantic partners and convince targets to give them money for various fictitious reasons.The best way to avoid being exploited is to NEVER give out personal or financial information over the telephone or by email or text in response to a solicitation. Victims of financial fraud are encouraged to call the Department of Justice’s Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-372-8311.
To learn about types of financial scams visit www.consumer.ftc.gov/scam-alerts or www.elderjustice.gov/senior-scam-alert.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Stephen R. Kaufman are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Secret Service conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Toledo Area Physician Charged with Fraudulently Billing More Than $8.4 Million to MedicareRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Michelle M. Baeppler announced that a federal grand jury returned a six-count indictment charging Ankita Singh, 39, formerly of Maumee, Ohio, with fraudulently billing Medicare $8.4 million.
According to the indictment, the defendant was a state-licensed physician practicing in Maumee and Toledo. From June 2018 through May 2021, it is alleged that the defendant participated in a scheme to bill Medicare approximately $8.4 million in durable medical equipment, prosthetics/orthotics and supplies (DMEPOS) that were medically unnecessary.
As part of the scheme, it is alleged that telemarketers and call centers would contact or cold-call Medicare beneficiaries in an attempt to convince the beneficiaries to agree to receive DMEPOS, specifically braces, in the mail. The call center operators and telemarketers often told beneficiaries that the braces would be provided at no cost and that a doctor would be contacting them.
The indictment states that the call centers and telemarketers would then use general information about the beneficiary, including their name, Medicare number and purported diagnosis, to prepare DMEPOS order forms that certified that the equipment and supplies were medically necessary.
According to the indictment, the defendant received these order forms and signed them, even though the defendant had never spoken to, examined, assessed or otherwise established a doctor-patient relationship with the beneficiary. As a result, DMEPOS suppliers shipped the items listed on the order forms to the beneficiaries and submitted a corresponding claim to Medicare.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court after a review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offenses, and the characteristics of the violation.
In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigated by the Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS-OIG) and Cleveland FBI. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jody L. King.
Ten Alleged Members or Associates of Chicago Street Gang Charged in Drug Trafficking ProbeRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A joint federal and local drug trafficking investigation has resulted in federal charges against ten alleged members or associates of a Chicago street gang for conspiring to distribute heroin and cocaine.
During the multi-year probe, law enforcement shut down three open-air drug markets in the West Garfield Park neighborhood on the West Side of Chicago. The investigation, led by Homeland Security Investigations and the Chicago Police Department, utilized extensive undercover and covert surveillance operations and resulted in the seizures of multiple kilograms of suspected heroin, some of which was laced with fentanyl, and cocaine, as well as four rifles, four handguns, a MAC-10 submachine gun, a shotgun, and more than 450 rounds of ammunition. A criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago alleges that the ten federal defendants are members or associates of the Four Corner Hustlers street gang.
The ten federal defendants are in law enforcement custody and have made initial appearances in U.S. District Court in Chicago. In addition to the federal defendants, more than 20 other individuals were charged with state drug offenses in the Circuit Court of Cook County.
The federal charges were announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Angie Salazar, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of HSI; and David Brown, Superintendent of CPD. Valuable assistance was provided by the IRS Criminal Investigation Division in Chicago. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shawn McCarthy, David Green, and Kristin Pinkston represent the government.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.
“Fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine are extremely potent drugs that have wreaked havoc in too many of our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Lausch. “We will continue to focus our efforts on individuals and groups who traffic dangerous drugs and prosecute those offenders in federal court.”
“Our goal is for law abiding residents to enjoy safety and peace in their communities, and holding these criminals accountable for their actions is a major step toward achieving that goal,” said HSI SAC Salazar. “We will continue to put pressure on these dangerous gangs by investigating and prosecuting their members, just as we are doing in this case.”
Charged with federal drug conspiracy are NATHANIEL EVANS, 38, of Aurora, Ill., JARELLE JONES, 24, of Forest Park, Ill., MARQUIS JONES, 29, of Chicago, DEVONTAY LOGAN, 27, of Chicago, JOSEPH WILLIAMS, 31, of Chicago, DORNELL WILLIAMS, 34, of Chicago, TEREMIUS WEBB, 25, of Chicago, ANTONIO FLETCHER, 40, of Chicago, KYLE LINTON, 25, of Chicago, and MAURICE BELL, 40, of Chicago.
From February 2021 to April 2022, law enforcement officers made numerous undercover purchases of narcotics from various members of the organization. The drugs at the open-air markets were typically packaged in small baggies and sold for $10 each – with discounts for higher quantity sales, the complaint states.
According to the federal charges, Evans directed the drug trafficking operation and supervised the three open-air markets, which were located in the 3900 block of West Jackson Boulevard, 3900 block of West Van Buren Street, and 4000 block of West Maypole Avenue. Jarelle Jones, Marquis Jones, Joseph Williams, and Dornell Williams allegedly worked as “shift managers,” overseeing drug sales at the illegal markets at various times of the day. The charges allege that Logan picked up narcotics from suppliers, delivered them to the Jackson Boulevard location, and collected illicit proceeds after the sales. Webb, Fletcher, and Linton allegedly worked as street-level dealers, while the charges accuse Bell of obtaining narcotics for sales at the Maypole Avenue location.
The public is reminded that a complaint contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The drug conspiracy charge is punishable by up to life in federal prison. If convicted, the Court must impose reasonable sentences under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Stoneham Woman Sentenced for Identity Theft and Unemployment Fraud Related to COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Stoneham woman was sentenced today in connection with her involvement in a scheme to fraudulently obtain COVID-19-related unemployment assistance using stolen identities.
Lilly Nguyen, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to two years in prison and 18 months of supervised release. Nguyen was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $526,423. On Aug. 3, 2021, Nguyen pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) created a temporary federal unemployment insurance program called Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). The program is administered by the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance and provides unemployment insurance benefits for individuals who are not eligible for other types of unemployment benefits (e.g., the self-employed, independent contractors, or gig economy workers).
Nguyen participated in a scheme with co-conspirator Daniel Maleus to submit fraudulent PUA claims using the stolen personally identifiable information of others. The claims submitted by Nguyen and Maleus resulted in $526,423 in payments between April 2020 and April 2021.
In November 2021, Maleus pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, five counts of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. He was sentenced on April 12, 2022, by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel, to three years in prison and three years of supervised release. Maleus was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $526,423.
United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Labor Racketeering and Fraud made the announcement. Special assistance was provided by the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Markham of Rollins’ Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
St. Paul Man Sentenced in St. Paul Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
Minneapolis, Minn. – A St. Paul man was sentenced to 110 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for a robbery spree of St. Paul businesses, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on June 14, 2021, Warren Dean, 27, entered a Speedway gas station, flashed a realistic looking replica gun at the employees, and ordered them to give him money from the cash register. Dean ordered the employees to lay on the ground and fled the scene with approximately $292 in cash.
In addition to the Speedway robbery, Dean admitted to robbing or attempting to rob another six St. Paul businesses between June 14 and 16, 2021. After his last robbery on June 16, St. Paul police attempted to apprehend Dean, but he fled from officers and led them on a 30-mile car chase that ended in north Minneapolis after Dean crashed into multiple parked cars. After his vehicle stopped, Dean refused to surrender and a four-hour standoff ensued before officers were able to take Dean into custody without incident.
Dean was sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge Michael J. Davis. On October 13, 2021, Dean pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act robbery.
This case is the result of investigations conducted by the FBI, the St. Paul Police Department, and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Harry M. Jacobs prosecuted the case.
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South Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Interstate Travel for the Purpose of Engaging in Illicit Sexual Conduct with Fifteen-Year-Old MinorRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – GRAHAM LOVELACE, age 33, of Greenville, South Carolina, pleaded guilty as charged today before United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe to a one-count bill of information charging him with interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the court documents, in October 2021, LOVELACE met the minor, a fifteen-year-old who resided in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, on an Xbox game. Throughout 2020 and 2021, LOVELACE and the minor engaged in sexually explicit correspondence, and they made plans to engage in sexual acts in the future, on numerous occasions. During the correspondence, LOVELACE requested and received sexually explicit images and videos of the minor via a video messaging application. In early January 2021, LOVELACE purchased the minor victim a bus ticket to travel from New Orleans to Greenville, South Carolina. However, the minor victim’s mother discovered the correspondence with LOVELACE, informed LOVELACE of the minor victim’s age, and prevented the minor from leaving Louisiana. In fall of 2021, LOVELACE and the minor made plans for LOVELACE to travel to Louisiana to pick up the minor and return to South Carolina together for the purpose of engaging in sex and spending the rest of their lives together. On about October 6, 2021, LOVELACE traveled by automobile from South Carolina to the minor’s Belle Chasse, Louisiana school bus stop. LOVELACE and the minor then travelled to New Orleans, where they stayed in a hotel room together and engaged in sexual intercourse. On about October 7, 2021, LOVELACE and the minor were found by law enforcement, walking hand-in-hand down Bourbon Street in New Orleans.
LOVELACE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than thirty (30) years, followed by a minimum of five (5) years and maximum of a lifetime of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine. LOVELACE will also be required to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee at sentencing. LOVELACE may also be required to register as a sex offender. Sentencing before Judge Milazzo has been scheduled for Thursday, August 18, 2022.
The case was investigated by agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg and Melissa Bücher.
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Six Individuals from Phenix City Indicted on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama – Today, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Alabama announced that six individuals from Phenix City, Alabama have been arrested following indictments on federal drug charges.
Andre Tremayne Franklin, 29, Khourtney Jakeith Brown, 33, Xavier Toombs, 33, Ryan Brown, 32, and Kahlia Nichelle Washington, 26, were indicted by a federal grand jury last month for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. In the same indictment, Khourtney Brown and Katshalliam Gosha, 43, were also charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance commonly known as “crack cocaine.”
An indictment is merely an allegation that a crime has been committed. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
All individuals named above made an initial appearance in federal court this week. If convicted on the conspiracy charge, each of the accused, except Washington, are facing 10 years to life in prison. Washington’s potential sentence is 5 to 40 years. The possession with intent to distribute count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years for Khourtney Brown and Katshalliam Gosha. There is no parole in the federal system.
These cases are part of a partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce drug trafficking and violent crime, making our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
United States Attorney Sandra J. Stewart would like to thank the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Abbeville Police Department, the Auburn Police Division, the Eufaula Police Department, the Phenix City Police Department, and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office for investigating these cases, with assistance from the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the Alabama National Guard Counterdrug Program, the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, the Millbrook Police Department, the Montgomery Police Department, the Prattville Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, and the Muscogee County, Georgia Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin P. Davidson is prosecuting the cases.
Sex Offender Convicted of Obscenity OffenseRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – This afternoon, a federal jury in Gainesville convicted Matthew Lee Ostrander, 36, of Missouri, on possession of obscene visual depictions of minors. The conviction, which followed a 2-day trial that began on Wednesday, was announced by Jason R. Coody, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Evidence introduced at trial revealed that in September 2020, Ostrander was arrested in Gainesville, Florida for an outstanding warrant from Missouri. At the time of his arrest, he had also failed to register as a sex offender in the State of Florida. He knowingly possessed electronic devices that contained over four hundred computer-generated images depicting children engaged in sexual activity. The activity included sadistic and masochistic abuse and sexual intercourse with children.
According to court documents, Ostrander is a registered sex offender who was previously convicted of possession of child pornography on October 18, 2017.
Ostrander’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 2, 2022, at 11:00 am, at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before the Honorable United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor. Ostrander faces 20 years imprisonment.
This conviction was the result of an investigation by the Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Frank Williams prosecuted this case.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Savannah clinic owner sentenced to federal prison for laundering money for ‘pill mill’Read the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: A former Garden City, Ga., clinic owner and CEO has been sentenced to federal prison after admitting she laundered money in connection with a notorious “pill mill” doctor who illegally dispensed massive amounts of drugs.
Jamesetta Whipple-Duncan, 59, of Savannah, was sentenced to 60 months in prison after pleading guilty in U.S. District Court to one count of Money Laundering, said David H. Estes, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood also ordered Whipple-Duncan to pay $86,074 in restitution and to serve three years of supervised release after completion of her prison sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.
“This sentence holds accountable yet another instrumental figure who helped pour gasoline on the raging fire of the opioid addiction crisis,” said U.S. Attorney Estes. “Along with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to bring to justice those who exacerbate drug addictions in our community, whether they stand or street corners or dress in lab coats.”
As described in the plea agreement and other court documents, Whipple, as owner of the now-closed Georgia Laboratory Diagnostics LLC, in Garden City, Ga., was an employer of Dr. Frank Bynes Jr., 69, of Savannah. Bynes was sentenced in February 2020 to 240 months in prison and ordered to pay $615,145 in restitution to Medicare, Medicaid and Tricare after being found guilty by a federal jury on 13 counts of Unlawful Dispensation of Controlled Substances and three counts of Health Care Fraud.
For Whipple-Duncan’s role, she owned and operated the clinic, hired Dr. Bynes, and then profited as her clinic provided Bynes with a base of operation from which he illegally distributed controlled substances, including highly addictive opioids and drug cocktails favored by addicts. Whipple-Duncan controlled the finances of the clinic, which largely consisted of cash from the clinic’s patients. Whipple-Duncan used that cash to continue operations of the clinic, and to finance expenditures for herself, including a Mercedes-Benz sedan, a Hummer H2, a Can-Am Spyder, and a Polaris Slingshot.
“Denying deceitful medical providers the opportunity to improperly prescribe highly-addictive pills is a key priority for the DEA,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. “This investigation was a success thanks to collaboration with local law enforcement.”
“In the midst of this country’s prescription opioid epidemic, it is the FBI’s goal to work with our law enforcement partners to prosecute anyone who recklessly overprescribes pharmaceutical pills, especially for non-medical reasons,” said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Whipple-Duncan’s actions directly contributed to the opioid crisis in our community and for that she is being held accountable.”
“Aiding in the illegal prescription of large amounts of drugs both undermines critical measures to address the opioid crisis and also puts patients at serious risk of overdose and other forms of physical harm,” said Tamala Miles, Special Agent in Charge at the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable bad actors who exploit opioid addiction for personal financial gain.”
“The opioid addiction crisis in this country deeply affects the military members as well as their families,” stated Special Agent in Charge Cynthia A. Bruce, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southeast Field Office. “The selfishness of Whipple-Duncan represents another reprehensible side of this crisis where greed outweighs the humanity towards those struggling with addiction. DCIS will continue to work closely with our investigative partners to hold those responsible who advance the opioid crisis for their own personal gain.”
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the FBI, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and an investigator with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Whipple-Duncan is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan A. Porter and Patrick J. Schwedler.
Salem Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for COVID-19 and Tax Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Salem man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston in connection with orchestrating two fraud schemes involving COVID-19 relief funds and tax returns submitted using stolen identities.
Roosevelt Fernandez, 42, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard Stearns to five years in prison and three years of supervised release. Fernandez was also ordered to pay $198,402 in restitution and forfeiture. On Jan. 6, 2022, Fernandez pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.
In as early as 2018, Fernandez, a tax preparer, operated a Salem-based tax preparation business called Soluciones Multi Service. Though his business, Fernandez used personal identifying information of certain taxpayers to prepare and file fraudulent federal and state tax returns on their behalf without their knowledge. A number of these returns included fraudulent W-2 Forms purportedly issued by employers for whom the named taxpayer did not in fact work. Various fraudulent refunds were deposited into an account in the name of Soluciones Multi Service. In addition, a May 2020 fraudulent Economic Income Payment – stimulus authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) – was deposited into this same account. Fernandez was depicted on ATM surveillance footage depositing another fraudulent tax refund check into this account. Overall, the investigation uncovered approximately 40 fraudulent tax returns associated with Fernandez, totaling over $620,000 in requested refunds.
In addition, Fernandez applied for 10 Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), either in his own name or in the names of entities he controlled. EIDL funds were available to eligible individuals and businesses pursuant to the CARES Act. In June 2020, Fernandez applied for an EIDL under Soluciones Multi Service and submitted a false tax filing in support of the application. As a result, the SBA deposited $124,900 into a bank account controlled by Fernandez from which he withdrew more than $80,000 in cash over the next two weeks. In August 2020, Fernandez applied for an EIDL in the name of another business using fraudulent tax filing information. As a result, the SBA deposited $149,900 into the same bank account.
United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins and Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division for the Boston Field Office, made the announcement. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Massachusetts Department of Revenue Criminal Investigations Bureau provided valuable assistance with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Abely, Chief of Rollins’ Criminal Division, prosecuted the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Sacramento Woman Indicted for Bank Fraud, Identity Theft, and Possession of Stolen MailRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a five-count indictment today against Ashley Leyba, 32, of Sacramento, charging her with bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and possession of stolen mail, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Leyba executed a scheme to defraud a financial institution. She obtained identity information, identification documents, cards, and checks belonging to other people without their authorization. Leyba obtained at least some of these items from stolen mail. She used stolen identification to cash altered stolen checks to obtain money and other things of value from a credit union. On March 22, 2022, Leyba was found to be in possession of stolen mail.
This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Sacramento Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot C. Wong is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Leyba faces a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine for each count of bank fraud, a mandatory two-year sentence on each count of aggravated identity theft, and a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the count of possession of stolen mail. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Sacramento Grand Jury Indicts Riverside County Man and Woman for Fentanyl Distribution and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today against Holly Adams, 31, and Devlin Hosner, 33, of Indio, charging them with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, and with conspiracy to launder money, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Adams and Hosner operated the vendor accounts “igogrraawwr” and “its4real” on the dark web marketplaces ToRReZ and Dark0de, respectively, through which they sold tens of thousands of counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl in exchange for cryptocurrency. Adams and Hosner shipped these fentanyl pills to buyers throughout the United States, using the U.S. Postal Service, UPS, and other means of delivery.
Adams and Hosner operated vendor accounts on the dark web from at least May 2021 through March 2022. In the course of their conspiracy, Adams and Hosner finalized over 1,100 transactions of narcotics and other contraband and received more than $800,000 in cryptocurrency. Federal law enforcement officers executed a search warrant in March at a hotel in Riverside County where Adams and Hosner were residing, and recovered more than 10,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills as well as approximately 60 grams of methamphetamine.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Northern California Illicit Digital Economy (NCIDE) Task Force, which includes Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation. The NCIDE Task Force is a federal task force focused on targeting all forms of illicit dark web and cryptocurrency activity in the Eastern District of California and beyond. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stefanki is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Adams and Hosner each face a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Rocklin Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Banks While Awaiting Sentencing on Other Fraud and Money Laundering ChargesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Kevin Lee Co, 51, of Rocklin, pleaded guilty today to submitting false statements to a financial institution, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, on Dec. 8, 2016, Co pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering for embezzling approximately $4.8 million from his former employer, Holt of California. Co used the money he embezzled to purchase, among other things, luxury cars, home furniture, and NFL football and NBA basketball season tickets. While out of custody and awaiting sentencing on those charges, Co defrauded federally insured financial institutions by submitting false statements to qualify for loans that were part of the Paycheck Protection Program.
Co was the sole owner of Apollo HP Inc., a Rocklin-based company that sells generators, windows, and residential solar panels. Between April 2020 and January 2021, Co applied for and obtained Paycheck Protection Program loans for his company. The loan applications required him to disclose his pending criminal charges and guilty pleas. However, in his loan applications, Co concealed the fact that he had pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering charges in order to cause two banks to approve loans for his company. As a result of Co’s false statements, financial institutions suffered a total loss of $530,552.
This case was the product of an investigation by the IRS Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Reserve Board and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian A. Fogerty is prosecuting the case.
Co is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley on Aug. 18, 2022. On the false statements charge, Co faces a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. Because the offense was committed while on release pending sentencing, the court may impose an additional consecutive sentence of up to 10 years in prison. Co also faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the wire fraud charge. For the money laundering charge, Co faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000, or twice the value of the property involved in the money laundering transactions. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Readout of Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco’s Trip to ChicagoRead the Press Release
Earlier this week, Deputy Attorney General (DAG) Lisa O. Monaco traveled to Chicago for a series of engagements that focused on the integrity of the Department of Justice as well as the department’s ongoing partnerships with law enforcement and community leaders to promote public safety.
On Monday, DAG Monaco returned to her alma mater, the University of Chicago Law School where she met with a group of law students to talk about her career path and the role the Department of Justice serves in maintaining the rule of law. She also met separately with a group of students from the Institute of Politics (IOP) to highlight the importance of public service.
That evening, the DAG participated in the IOP’s Speaker Series, for a discussion on how the Department of Justice “enforces the rule of law in a highly polarized world” and how the department is working to defend our democracy, including with respect to the January 6th investigation. The DAG fielded a range of questions about how the department strikes a balance between transparency and promoting public confidence while simultaneously protecting the integrity of the department’s investigations, consistent with its norms and traditions. A full link of the DAG’s session is available here: Justice in the Spotlight: A talk with Lisa Monaco, Deputy Attorney General of the United States.
On Tuesday morning, the DAG participated in a conversation with University of Chicago President Paul Alivisatos to launch the University’s new Community Safety Leadership Academies, which will help to train the next generation of police and community violence intervention leaders from across America. In her conversation, the DAG emphasized the need to prioritize investments in both policing best practices and community violence intervention in order to keep our communities safe. A full link of the DAG’s session is available here: University of Chicago Community Safety Leadership Academies.
Afterwards, the DAG visited the headquarters of the Chicago Police Department (CPD), where she toured the Crime Prevention & Information Center (CPIC), to see how CPD is using cutting-edge technology — in coordination with federal law enforcement partners — to fight crime in Chicago. The DAG also met with CPD Superintendent David O. Brown and his First Deputy Superintendent Eric Carter to discuss trends in violent crime as well as the coordinated efforts between state, local and federal law enforcement to protect Chicago communities.
From there, the DAG went to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois (NDIL), where she met with U.S. Attorney John Lausch and his leadership team, and where she received a series of case briefings from NDIL attorneys. The DAG also convened a roundtable with state, local and federal law enforcement leaders where they discussed a variety of public safety issues and how to best partner together to address them.
The DAG’s trip concluded with an all-hands meeting at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, where she had a chance to hear from and talk with the dedicated men and women of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois.
Raleigh County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Raleigh County man was sentenced today to five years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on the residence of Edward Paul Potter, 42, of Bradley, on December 1, 2020. During the search, law enforcement officers found over 50 grams of a heroin and fentanyl mixture, $1,356 in U.S. currency, and 17 firearms. Potter admitted that he possessed and intended to sell the heroin and fentanyl mixture. Potter further admitted that he had been working with a drug trafficking ring operating from Detroit and he had been receiving regular shipments of heroin.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Alex Hamner prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:21-cr-167.
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Pharr man admits to trafficking over $600K of narcoticsRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 30-year-old Texan has pleaded guilty to smuggling heroin and meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Gerardo Jimenez admitted that on Nov. 3, 2020, he knowingly entered the Hidalgo Border Patrol (BP) Port of Entry with drugs in his car.
Upon inspection, a K-9 alerted authorities to the hood of Jimenez’s vehicle. Authorities soon discovered four kilograms of heroin and two kilograms of 100% pure meth concealed in the battery of his car.
The drugs had an estimated street value of $654,000.
U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez will impose sentencing Aug. 19. At that time, he faces a minimum of 10 years in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
Jimenez has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliza Carmen Rodriguez is prosecuting the case.
Peoria Woman Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements in Connection with Straw-Purchasing SchemeRead the Press Release
PEORIA, Ill. – A Peoria, Illinois, woman, Keena Fauntleroy, 28, of the 2600 block of West Humboldt Street, pleaded guilty on May 11, 2022, to one count of making false statements in connection with the acquisition of firearms, commonly referred to as straw purchasing. The false statements related to her purchase of firearms for her partner, Jarmarco O. Moore, 32, of the 1300 block of North Machin Ave., in Peoria, Illinois, who was prohibited from possessing firearms due to his status as a felon. Sentencing for Fauntleroy is scheduled for September 8, 2022, at the federal courthouse in Peoria.
Moore was previously sentenced on April 14, 2022, to 110 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm as a felon in connection with this case.
According to court documents, federal agents began investigating Fauntleroy’s alleged gun purchase history when two of the guns that Fauntleroy was reported to have purchased in 2019 were recovered during criminal investigations by the Peoria Police Department. The investigation revealed that Fauntleroy had purchased ten guns between January 2019 and January 2021. On March 8, 2021, agents seized a 9mm handgun from Fauntleroy and approached Moore at his residence. While agents interviewed Moore at the front door of his home, police at the rear of the home saw a minor female exit the back door carrying a backpack. The minor female was stopped and questioned by police. Agents then searched the backpack and located 20 grams of cocaine and two firearms: a Glock Model 20 10mm handgun loaded with 14 rounds in the magazine and one in the chamber, and a Ruger Model 57 handgun loaded with 21 rounds in the magazine and one in the chamber. Fauntleroy was reported to have purchased these two handguns three months earlier, on January 7 and 8, 2021. The investigation revealed that Moore had directed the juvenile to remove the backpack with the guns and drugs from the house when he learned that law enforcement agents were headed to the residence.
During an interview with law enforcement, Moore stated that his DNA and fingerprints would likely be on any firearms that Fauntleroy had bought. Moore also admitted that he had accompanied Fauntleroy when she allegedly bought firearms at gun stores.
Fauntleroy was indicted in June of 2021. She remains on bond pending sentencing.
The statutory penalties for making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm are up to 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.
Moore was indicted in June 2021 and released on bond to a third-party custodian. After violating his bond conditions, he was returned to custody in December 2021 and pleaded guilty that same month.
At Moore’s sentencing, U.S. District Judge James E. Shadid found the sentence was intended to promote respect for the law, deter criminal conduct, and protect the public. Judge Shadid noted that Moore had committed a very dangerous offense involving a lot of handguns purchased over an extended period of time, some of which had been located on the streets during unrelated criminal investigations, and some that were still unaccounted for.
The statutory penalties for being a felon in possession of a firearm are up to 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Moore was also required to forfeit the handguns.
“We must make every effort to stop the flow of illegal guns in our communities and use our federal resources to prosecute individuals who unlawfully purchase and possess firearms,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald L. Hanna. “As always, we appreciate the cooperation and assistance of our local and federal law enforcement partners to help make our communities safer.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Peoria Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hanna represented the government in the prosecution.
The case against Moore was brought as part of The Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. The Department’s renewed commitment to Project Safe Neighborhoods establishes four fundamental principles to guide efforts to reduce violent crime: 1) build trust and legitimacy within communities; 2) invest in community-based prevention and intervention programs; 3) target enforcement and priorities to focus resources on identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the most significant drivers of gun violence and other violent crime; and, 4) measure results with the goal to reduce the level of violence in our communities and not to increase the number of arrests and prosecutions as if they were ends in themselves.
Parkersburg Man Sentenced to Prison for Walking Away from Federal Reentry FacilityRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man was sentenced today to one year and three months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for escape after walking away from a federal reentry facility.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Joshua Dowler, 40, admitted that he walked away from Dismas Charities in St. Albans on September 16, 2021, by exiting the fenced-in area of the property. Dowler had been confined at Dismas because he was previously convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Dowler had not yet completed his term of imprisonment when he walked away from Dismas. The United States Marshals Service apprehended Dowler in Parkersburg on November 9, 2021.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the United States Marshals Service.
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Negar M. Kordestani prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-256.
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Parkersburg Man Sentenced for Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man was sentenced today to one year and nine months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about January 26, 2021, Shawn Mackenzie Tant, 43, was sitting in the driver’s seat of a vehicle parked in front of a retail establishment on the south side of Parkersburg. While in the vehicle, Tant had contact with officers from the Parkersburg Police Department. A Harrington and Richardson .38-caliber revolver was located by the officers on the dashboard of Tant’s vehicle.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Tant admitted that he knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of three prior felony convictions in Wood County Circuit Court for delivery of a controlled substance. Tant has a long criminal history that includes three domestic battery convictions as well as convictions for domestic assault, battery, and battery of a police officer.
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 Parkersburg Police Department.
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-232.
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Parkersburg Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 9, 2021, officers with the Parkersburg Police Department responded to a domestic violence complaint at the apartment of Matthew Ryan Hunt, 34. They forced entry after learning that shots had been fired inside Hunt’s apartment. Hunt was located inside with a pistol sitting next to him. Inside a safe in the bedroom, officers located an additional pistol and two rifles as well as over 5,800 rounds of ammunition. A female was also present. Officers located two spent shell casings in the apartment, and gunshot residue was detected on swabs taken from Hunt’s hands and face. Investigators later used the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to determine that the spent shell casings were fired from the pistol that officers located next to Hunt.
Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Hunt knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms because of an August 2017 felony conviction for breaking and entering in Wirt County Circuit Court.
Hunt is scheduled to be sentenced on September 8, 2022, and faces a maximum potential penalty of life in prison.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Parkersburg Police Department, the West Virginia State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe is prosecuting the case.
This case was made possible by investigative leads generated from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms. NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles. For more information on NIBIN, visit https://www.atf.gov/firearms/national-integrated-ballistic-information-network-nibin.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-267.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON –An Ohio man, a previously convicted sex offender, was sentenced today to a 30-year prison term on a federal charge of distribution of child pornography.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Criminal Division.
Joshua McCarty, 38, of Mansfield, Ohio, pleaded guilty in January 2022, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. He was sentenced by the Honorable Christopher R. Cooper. Upon completion of his prison term, McCarty will be placed on 10 years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $18,000 in restitution to the victims depicted in the images that he distributed. McCarty also must register as a sex offender following his release from prison.
According to the government’s evidence, in July of 2019, a mere two months after being released from prison after serving five years for sexually abusing an 11-year-old girl, McCarty used a mobile messaging application to communicate with an individual who he believed was a father with access to young children. McCarty distributed links containing over 1.8 gigabytes of images and videos, depicting the sexual abuse of children as young as toddlers. During his communications with this individual, McCarty sent a photo depicting his sex offender registration profile in Ohio.
McCarty was arrested on July 19, 2019, and he has remained in custody.
This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. The task force is composed of FBI agents, along with other federal agents and detectives from northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. The task force is charged with investigating and bringing federal charges against individuals engaged in the exploitation of children and those engaged in human trafficking.
This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice's Project Safe Childhood initiative. In February 2006, the Attorney General created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney's Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Special Agent in Charge Jacobs commended the work of those who investigated the case from the FBI's Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of the FBI's Washington Field Office and the Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) Youth Investigations Division. They also commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy E. Larson, who prosecuted the case.
Norwalk Man Charged with Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that JAKE SCOTT FLEWELLYN, 24, of Norwalk, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with child pornography offenses.
Flewellyn surrendered to law enforcement yesterday afternoon. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Dave Vatti in Bridgeport and was released on a $100,000 bond under electronic monitoring.
As alleged in court documents, in December 2021, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) received a report from the provider of the smartphone messaging application Kik about a Kik user who was distributing videos of child pornography through its service. Kik deactivated the user’s account. In early April 2022, while federal law enforcement was investigating this matter to determine the Kik user’s identity, Kik submitted to NCMEC another report of a user account that was being used to distribute videos of child pornography. The investigation revealed that Flewellyn created both Kik accounts and used them to distribute images and videos depicting child sex abuse
The complaint charges Flewellyn with distribution of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and accessing with intent to view child pornography, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Norwalk Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert S. Dearington and Neeraj N. Patel.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
North Carolina Man Sentenced to More Than 20 Years in Federal Prison for Forcing Minors into ProstitutionRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, SOUTH CAROLINA — Johnny Ricardo Thomas, a/k/a Rico, a/k/a Lulu, 34, of Durham, N.C., has been sentenced to more than 2o years in federal prison after pleading guilty to coercing minors to engage in prostitution in the Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina and elsewhere.
Evidence presented to the Court showed that the case began when officers with the Myrtle Beach Police Department interviewed a 15-year-old runaway who reported she was the victim of human trafficking. Subsequent investigation by the Myrtle Beach Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) revealed that sometime in March 2019, Thomas, the 15-year-old minor victim, a second 16-year-old minor victim, and others, travelled from North Carolina to the Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina and other places for the purpose of engaging in prostitution.
Although Thomas knew the two victims were minors, he would take pictures of them, create online advertisements making the minors available for sex, and coerce or force the victims to engage in sexual acts for money. According to one of the minor victims, Thomas told her he would sell her to someone worse – who would do things like slice off her toes – if she did not perform commercial sex acts. In a statement from that minor victim provided to the Court at Thomas’s sentencing, the victim said she still had night terrors, looks over her shoulder everywhere she goes, and felt “disgusting, used, worthless, [and] empty.”
“Crimes against children are vile, indefensible, and can create lifelong victims,” said U.S. Attorney Corey F. Ellis. “We are fortunate that our federal, state, and local partners share our commitment to thoroughly investigate these cases, provide services to the affected victims, and prosecute those who engage in this reprehensible conduct. These efforts are clear in this case, and are the reason that the Defendant - who victimized two minor children - will spend decades in prison and the rest of his life being monitored by the Court.”
“Over the last several years, this office has worked hand-in-hand with our federal counterparts to identify and address criminal activity across Horry and Georgetown Counties, specifically including human trafficking,” said Scott Hixson, Chief Deputy Solicitor for the 15th Judicial Circuit, who also served as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney on this matter. “The efforts in this case showcase the power of combining state and federal resources to make a serious impact in our community, and our hope is this plan of attack will ring successful in future prosecutions.”
“We are all thankful that this case has been resolved and the victims can now begin the healing process knowing that this predator will no longer be able to hurt them,” said Special Agent in Charge Ronnie Martinez, who oversees HSI operations in North Carolina and South Carolina. “HSI and its law enforcement partners prioritize the protection of our most vulnerable population, and this case is a warning to other would-be traffickers that we will find you and hold you accountable for your unconscionable actions.”
"We have no greater responsibility than to protect our children, and law enforcement will always stand up for those that need help,” said Myrtle Beach Police Chief Amy Prock. “This case was a partnership built on that mission, and we couldn't be more proud of the team that brought Mr. Thomas to justice.”
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Thomas to 262 months imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Thomas was also ordered to pay restitution to his victims. According to information presented to the Court, the convicti0n was part of Thomas’s lengthy criminal history. Thomas’s record includes convictions for breaking and entering, felon in possession of a firearm, possession with intent to distribute narcotics, assault on a government official, and resisting arrest. A co-defendant in the case, Becca Mills, 25, of Whispering Pines, N.C., has pled guilty to a charge related to concealing Thomas’s crimes from law enforcement authorities. She will be sentenced at a later date.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the 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 sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by HSI, the Myrtle Beach Police Department, and the Rockingham, N.C. Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Derek A. Shoemake and Lauren Hummel, along with Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Hixson, prosecuted the case. The case was originally prosecuted by the Solicitor’s Office for the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit, under the leadership of Solicitor Jimmy Richardson, and federally prosecuted as part of a collaborative effort by federal and state partners in the Myrtle Beach area to combat sex trafficking and child exploitation.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – The Honorable Sarah S. Vance sentenced ALONZO SMALL, age 30, of New Orleans, Louisiana, to 49 months in the Bureau of Prisons for violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the court records, SMALL conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin.
United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced SMALL to 49 months in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons, to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release. SMALL was also ordered to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case was investigated by Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
Nashville Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Firearms Violations on Day Before TrialRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – A Nashville, Tennessee man scheduled for trial Tuesday pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to drug and firearms violations, announced U.S. Attorney Mark H. Wildasin.
Anthony Ussery, 40, pleaded guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm; being a convicted felon in possession of ammunition; and possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl.
According to Court records, on May 8, 2019, officers with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (MNPD) responded to a shots-fired call at the intersection of East Trinity Lane and Meridian Street and discovered two victims with gunshot wounds. Video footage from a nearby business showed a black sedan approach the victims and an individual fire multiple shots before fleeing the scene. The subsequent investigation identified Ussery as the shooter, and the two victims, who are brothers, believed the shooting occurred as a result of a recent dispute with Ussery. Ussery was later arrested and charged by MNPD in relation to this shooting.
On March 23, 2021, while out on bond for the May 2019 shooting, Ussery was stopped by a Nashville Airport Authority police officer for a traffic violation and was found to be in possession of 57 grams of fentanyl and a loaded 9mm pistol. On March 25, 2021, a federal criminal complaint charged Ussery with federal crimes and he was subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury on July 13, 2021.
Ussery has four prior felony convictions, including attempted robbery; manslaughter; facilitation of the sale of drugs; and possession with intent to distribute Schedule IV controlled substances. In light of these prior convictions, Ussery qualifies as an Armed Career Criminal subject to a mandatory minimum of 15 year’s imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled to occur on August 11, 2022.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms & Explosives; the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department; and the Nashville Airport Authority Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Josh Kurtzman and Dwight Artis are prosecuting the case.
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Montgomery County Man Sentenced to over Three Years in Prison After Shooting into County Democratic Party HeadquartersRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams announced that Anthony Francis Nero, 48, of Norristown, PA, was sentenced to three years and one month in prison, and three years of supervised release by United States District Judge Karen S. Marston for sending threatening communications and cyberstalking in connection with a shooting at the offices of the Montgomery County Democratic Headquarters last year.
In January 2022, the defendant pleaded guilty to the charges and admitted to sending an electronic message over the Internet in January 2021 to the Montgomery County Democratic Party (MCDP) that threatened “random acts of violence” and stated “you should probably beef up security.” Later that month, MCDP officials discovered that the front window to MCDP’s office, located in Norristown, PA, had been shot through three times by a firearm. Ballistics tests by the Montgomery County Detective Bureau confirmed that two spent rounds recovered from the MCDP’s office were fired by Nero’s .45 caliber pistol.
“In the midst of a politically tumultuous time in our Nation, Anthony Nero sent a threatening communication and then followed up on his threats with a violent act that could have resulted in catastrophic injury, or worse,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “I want to thank our partners in the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office and all agencies at the federal, state and local levels for their dedicated work on this case.”
“I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their efforts in prosecuting this defendant for terroristic threats against the Montgomery County Democratic Committee. There is no place for this kind of criminal behavior in our democracy, and our law enforcement will continue to stand together to make sure that those who act in this way are brought to justice,” said Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele.
“Anthony Nero first used words as his weapon, sending threatening messages to frighten people whose views he didn’t agree with,” said Jacqueline Maguire, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “He then escalated exponentially when he loaded his gun, drove to the MCDP office, and fired off those rounds. No one should have to fear becoming the victim of physical violence at the hands of an angry stranger. That’s why sending threatening communications is a crime, and why the FBI and our partners take threats so seriously as we work to protect and serve everyone in our communities.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Norristown Police Department, Montgomery County Detective Bureau, Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Vineet Gauri and Josh Davison, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen A. McLaughlin
Michigan man admits trafficking fentanyl on Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Michigan man suspected of working with other Detroit-area individuals to distribute fentanyl on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation admitted to a trafficking crime today, said U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson,
Brandon Lamar Louis James, 22, of Southfield, Michigan, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. James faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least three years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Sentencing was set for Aug. 25. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. James was released pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that in June 2021, the FBI was investigating a number of individuals from the Detroit area who were suspected to be distributing fentanyl on and around the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation. The FBI executed a search warrant at the residence of John and Jane Doe, on the reservation. Jane Doe was home and was detained, but John Doe was not present. Jane Doe told the officers that there was another individual in a bedroom. The door to the bedroom was locked and nobody responded to repeated commands to open it. Officers breached the door and found and detained James. During a search of the residence, officers found an Aleve brand pill bottle containing a suspected mixture of Aleve pills and fentanyl pills. A Drug Enforcement Administration analysis found that 258 pills were legitimate Aleve pills and that 179 pills were found to contain fentanyl.
John Doe and Jane Doe both described helping multiple out-of-state fentanyl suppliers who traveled to the reservation to distribute drugs. They identified a particular individual who was from Detroit and had met him more than a year prior. The Detroit individual frequently contacted them to pick up or house other individuals, who would travel to Montana with fentanyl pills and distribute them on the reservation. James had been one of those individuals they had transported and housed at the request of the Detroit individual.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan R. Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Tri-Agency Task Force, Russell Country High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs and Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement Services.
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Mexican national sentenced to 17 years in prison for methamphetamine possessionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Severano Ceballos Martinez, 45, of Copaco, Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced in federal court today to 17 years and six months in prison for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine. Martinez pleaded guilty on Nov. 3, 2021.
According to the plea agreement and other court records, on April 7, 2021, Martinez agreed to deliver five pounds of methamphetamine and 1,000 fentanyl pills to an apartment in Albuquerque. After Martinez arrived at the apartment, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) placed Martinez under arrest. A search of Martinez’s vehicle revealed five bags containing a total of 1,685 grams of methamphetamine and a plastic bag containing 2,115 fentanyl pills, as well as $2,800 in cash and three cellular phones. Inside Martinez’s wallet, investigators found multiple identification cards, all of which contained Martinez’s photograph.
In 1997 in Arizona, Martinez was convicted of possession of a narcotic drug for sale under the name Usebio Martinez Mendoza. In 2005 in Arizona, Martinez was convicted of attempted auto theft under the name Oscar Márquez. In 2010 and 2014 in Arizona, Martinez was convicted of re-entry of a removed alien under the name Pilar Geronimo Mendoza-Avendano and was removed from the United States to Mexico again on August 1, 2017. Martinez faces removal proceedings upon completion of his sentence.
ATF investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Samuel A. Hurtado prosecuted the case.
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Mercer County Accounting Professor Charged with Tax Evasion and Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Mercer County, New Jersey, man was arrested today for tax evasion and filing false tax returns, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Gordian A. Ndubizu, 67, of Princeton Junction, New Jersey, is charged in an eight-count indictment unsealed today with four counts of tax evasion and four counts of filing false tax returns in tax years 2014 through 2017. He is scheduled to make his initial appearance by videoconference this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Tonianne J. Bongiovanni.
According to documents filed in this case:
During tax years 2014 through 2017, Ndubizu was a professor of accounting at a university in Pennsylvania as well as the co-owner of Healthcare Pharmacy in Trenton. The pharmacy was organized as an S corporation, the income of which flowed through to Ndubizu and his wife and was to be reported on their personal income tax returns. Ndubizu prepared fraudulent books and records for Healthcare Pharmacy inflating the pharmacy’s costs of goods sold to reduce and underreport the pharmacy’s actual profits flowing through to Ndubizu and his wife. Ndubizu identified certain wire transfers as payments to purchase goods sold by the pharmacy when these wire transfers were in fact made to personal bank accounts under Ndubizu’s control and to bank accounts in Nigeria associated with an automotive company under Ndubizu’s control. Each of Ndubizu’s tax returns for tax years 2014 through 2017 falsely underreported his income and falsely reported that he had no financial interest in or signature authority over any foreign bank accounts. Ndubizu failed to report approximately $3.3 million in income from the pharmacy, resulting in the evasion of approximately $1.3 million in tax due and owing.
Each count of tax evasion carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a maximum fine of $100,000. Each count of filing a false tax return carries a maximum potential penalty of three years in prison and a maximum fine of $100,000.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Tammy Tomlins in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s arrest. He also thanked diversion investigators with the Drug Enforcement Administration, officers of the Trenton Police Department, and Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander E. Ramey of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Ndubizu’s wife, Florence Ndubizu, the co-owner of Healthcare Pharmacy, was also arrested today on federal controlled substance offenses charged in a separate indictment. She is not charged in the tax fraud case.
Marshall County man sentenced for drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jacob Lee McKinley, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 30 months of incarceration for a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
McKinley, 30, pleaded guilty in January 2022 to one count of “Distribution of Methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a Protected Location.” McKinley admitted to selling methamphetamine near Golden Towers in Marshall County in March 2021.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Man Sentenced for Firearm and Drug Trafficking CrimesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Jan Sharp announced that Mark Pochop, 36, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. Chief United States District Court Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Pochop to 87 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, he will begin a 4-year term of supervised release.
On June 14, 2020, Omaha Police officers saw a white Cadillac displaying license plates belonging to a different vehicle. The Cadillac was seen briefly meeting another car in a business parking lot in Omaha. After the meeting, officers attempted a traffic stop on the white Cadillac in the area of 15th and Pierce Streets in Omaha. The Cadillac failed to stop.
Pochop fled on foot from the white Cadillac. Pochop was detained after he tripped and fell. Near Pochop, officers recovered small baggies containing methamphetamine. Officers searched the white Cadillac and located a Taurus PT111 9mm handgun in the front passenger seat of the vehicle. Pochop claimed ownership of the firearm and later admitted to selling methamphetamine in exchange for a firearm and a ballistic vest earlier that day.
This case was 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department.
Man Charged with April 2018 Mount Vernon MurderRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, John B. DeVito, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New York Field Division (ATF), Frank A. Tarentino, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New York Division (DEA), and Glenn Scott, Commissioner of the Mount Vernon Police Department, announced the unsealing of a federal Indictment charging JAMES BAZEMORE, a/k/a “TJ,” with the broad daylight murder of Tasheen Williams on April 30, 2018 in Mount Vernon, New York. The Indictment also charges JARED MUJAAHID, a/k/a “Jay,” with aiding and abetting assault with a deadly weapon by providing BAZEMORE with the gun BAZMORE used to commit the murder. The Indictment also charges BAZEMORE and MUJAAHID with racketeering conspiracy. BAZEMORE is detained pending trial on other federal charges brought by this Office and MUJAAHID is serving a sentence from a prior federal conviction in this District. The defendants will be brought to the federal courthouse in White Plains, New York to be presented before a United States Magistrate Judge.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “In April 2018, Tasheen Williams was shot dead in broad daylight just as a local school was letting out, the victim of senseless gang-related violence. As alleged in the Indictment, James Bazemore is responsible for that murder, and Jared Mujaahid gave him the murder weapon. Thanks to the work of our remarkable law enforcement partners, Bazemore and Mujaahid now stand charged in federal court for this terrible crime.”
ATF Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito said: “ATF’s top priority is investigating and apprehending those who commit firearms violence and those who provide firearms for use in violent crimes. This indictment demonstrates the commitment of ATF and our great partners at DEA and the Mount Vernon Police Department to relentlessly pursue justice for victims of violent gun crime and hold those responsible accountable no matter how long it takes.”
DEA Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino said: “This cold-blooded murder is another example of drug-related violence plaguing our cities. DEA’s priority is making our communities safer through investigations and arresting members of criminal organizations responsible for drug-related overdoses, drug trafficking, and violent crime. I thank the ATF and US Attorney's Office Southern District of New York for their partnership and diligent work on this investigation.”
MVPD Commissioner Glenn Scott said: “This arrest again shows that Mount Vernon continues to benefit from the partnership the MVPD has formed with its Federal Law Enforcement partners. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, NY Field Office has shown how dedicated they are to assisting the MVPD with closing violent crime investigations. Mount Vernon Police has had Detectives assigned as Task Force Officers with the ATF for several years and this is just one of the many violent crimes that has been solved as a result of the hard work of the Detectives and the Special Agents from ATF. In cases of this magnitude the MVPD always strives to bring justice to the families effected by violence and we will utilize any and all resources and partnerships that we can do achieve that goal.”
According to the allegations in the Indictment[1]:
BAZEMORE and MUJAAHID were members or associates of a racketeering enterprise known as Big Paper. In order to fund the enterprise, protect and expand its interests, and promote its standing, members and associates of Big Paper committed, conspired, attempted, and threatened to commit acts of violence against rivals, including murder and assault; conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute narcotics; and obtained, possessed and used firearms, including by brandishing and discharging them.
On or about April 30, 2018, BAZEMORE acquired a gun from MUJAAHID, and then BAZEMORE stalked and shot Tasheen Williams dead in Mount Vernon, New York.
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BAZEMORE is charged with one count of racketeering conspiracy, which carries a statutory maximum sentence of life in prison, one count of murder in aid of racketeering, which carries a statutory maximum sentence of life in prison, and a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison; and one count of murder through use of a firearm, which carries a statutory maximum sentence of life in prison, and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison.
MUJAAHID is charged with one count of racketeering conspiracy, which carries a statutory maximum sentence of twenty years in prison, one count of aiding and abetting assault with a deadly weapon in aid of racketeering, which carries a statutory maximum sentence of twenty years in prison; and one count of aiding and abetting the discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, which carries a statutory maximum sentence of life in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison.
The statutory maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants would be determined by the judge.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and thanked the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office and the Mount Vernon Police Department for their assistance with the investigation.
This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Christopher Brumwell and Benjamin A. Gianforti are in charge of the prosecution.
[1] As the introductory phase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth below constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Lowell Man Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Cocaine Conspiracy with Colombian Criminal OrganizationRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lowell man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his role in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy connected to a Colombian-based criminal enterprise.
Juan Pablo Ariasgil, 41, of Lowell, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to four years in prison and four years of supervised release. In April 2021, Ariasgil pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Ariasgil conspired with members of La Oficina de Envigado (La Oficina), a criminal organization based in Medellín, Colombia to distribute five kilograms of cocaine. La Oficina originated in the 1980s when its members provided enforcement and collection services for the Medellín Cartel, including deceased Medellín Cartel leader Pablo Escobar. Today, La Oficina is allegedly involved in international narcotics trafficking, drug debt collection, money laundering, extortion and murder for hire.
It is alleged that co-defendants Fabio de Jesus Yepes Sanchez and Mario Zapata Velez were members of La Oficina who were charged with collecting a $750,000 drug debt from two cocaine traffickers in Massachusetts. It is further alleged that Yepes and Zapata conspired with Ariasgil and others to obtain five kilograms of cocaine from the Massachusetts traffickers, sell those kilograms, and then repatriate the drug proceeds to Colombia, in partial satisfaction of the outstanding drug debt.
This operation 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.
The charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine each provide for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division, made the announcement. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs of the Justice Department, Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston and the Government of Colombia provided critical assistance with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jared Dolan and Lauren Graber of Rollins’ Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Long Island Man Sentenced for Receiving and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jacob Delaney, age 24, of Holtsville, New York, was sentenced today to 78 months in prison for receiving and possessing child pornography, announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Janeen DiGuiseppi, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As part of his guilty plea, Delaney admitted that between about September 2018 and December 12, 2019, as a resident of New Paltz, New York, he used the Internet to search for, and download, numerous still images and video files of child pornography onto his computer and external hard drive. Some of the child pornography files received and possessed by Delaney depicted prepubescent children engaged in sexual conduct.
In imposing the sentence, Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy also imposed a 10-year term of supervised release to follow the term of incarceration.
This case was investigated by the FBI. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashlyn Miranda and Rick Belliss.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
Las Vegas Duo Indicted for Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens and Placing Their Lives in JeopardyRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, a federal grand jury in Tucson returned a two-count indictment against Kevin Michal Bell, 41, and Dara Eve Belic, 38, both of Las Vegas, charging Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for Profit Placing in Jeopardy the Life of Any Person and Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit Placing in Jeopardy the Life of Any Person.
The indictment alleges that on or about April 7, 2022, Bell and Belic conspired to transport and transported undocumented non-citizens (UNCs) and that during the commission of the offense, they placed their lives in jeopardy. The indictment further alleges that both Bell and Belic did so for financial gain.
According to the complaint filed last month, a Border Patrol camera operator observed an individual, suspected to be a UNC, crawling in the grass toward a Dodge Durango near the border with Mexico on April 7, 2022. Bell was driving the Durango and Belic was the front seat passenger. Law enforcement officers attempted to stop the Durango, but the vehicle failed to yield. Instead, the Durango fled from law enforcement at a high rate of speed. At one point during the pursuit, four UNCs exited the vehicle and were apprehended by Border Patrol. The Durango continued its flight, only stopping after spike strips were deployed.
An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol and the Arizona Department of Public Safety conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-22-00960-TUC-RM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2022-069_Bell# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Klawock Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
JUNEAU – A Klawock, Alaska, man was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Timothy M. Burgess to 16 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of ammunition.
According to court documents, Michael Delane Howard, 36, purchased approximately 1,000 rounds of .223 ammunition from the Log Cabin Sporting Goods store in Craig Alaska on April 22, 2020. Howard had previously been convicted of multiple felonies and is not allowed to own or possess ammunition or firearms. The investigation by law enforcement also revealed that Howard’s significant other had made several “straw” purchases for Howard and that he had access to multiple firearms.
“Felons who possess firearms endanger our communities,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Our office will continue to partner with federal, state and local agencies to keep firearms out of the wrong hands.”
“Actions like those Mr. Howard took to get firearms, despite his prohibition as a convicted felon, shows how much disregard he has for the law,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan T. McPherson. “Having his significant other purchase firearms for him further exacerbated Howard’s crimes. We will also work to identify and investigate straw purchasers who put firearms in the hands of convicted felons.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Craig Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt prosecuted the case.
This case is part of the Rural Alaska Anti-Violence Enforcement Network (RAAVEN) initiative to increase engagement, coordination and action on public safety in Alaska Native communities. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, it encourages extensive collaboration among law enforcement at all levels, rural communities, Alaska Native groups, victim service organizations and care providers.
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Kansas Cattle Trader Fined and Banned for Life After Repeated Violations of the Packers and Stockyards ActRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – The U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas fined a recidivist violator of statutory and regulatory federal livestock laws under the Packers and Stockyards Act.
The District Court also entered a lifetime ban against trader, John Rife, of Oswego, Kansas, for his violations of federal law and for breaching prior injunctive orders previously entered by the federal court.
Rife did not substantively defend allegations filed by the United States of numerous violations of federal law. The violations include:
• operating on a dealer basis of cattle transactions with a suspended registration; • operating without an adequate bond; • failing to maintain records and make records available to the federal inspectors; and
• violating the federal court’s prior 2012 and 2017 orders imposing penalties and injunctive relief against Rife for similar conduct.During a hearing on the matter, the United States argued that Rife’s operation as a cattle dealer and market agency without registering, bonding, or maintaining records potentially jeopardizes the financial integrity of the cattle markets. The United States also contended Rife’s failure to comply with federal law impairs the government’s ability to investigate and prevent the spread of disease.
The District Court ordered Rife to pay the United States 15% of $1,799,168.50 in new and reinstated penalties, equaling $269,875.27. The remainder is set in abatement in case of future violations. The District Court further entered a lifetime ban against Rife, barring him from engaging in any further business within the USDA’s jurisdiction for which registration and bonding are required.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), Packers and Stockyards Division investigated the case against Rife.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven Brookreson and Christopher Allman brought the enforcement action on behalf of the United States.
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Kinnear Woman Sentenced for False Statement of Sexual AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Bob Murray announced today that BENITA LOUISE SMITH, 56, of Kinnear, Wyoming was sentenced for making a false statement relating to a sexual assault investigation before United States District Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal. Smith was sentenced to time-served with two years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment fee.
On October 26, 2020, law enforcement responded to a call for service on the Wind River Reservation. At the scene, officers learned that Benita Smith had an active arrest warrant. Smith was arrested and transported to the Wind River Detention Center. After arriving at the facility, Smith falsely claimed she was sexually assaulted by the arresting officer during transport to the facility. Dash camera footage from inside the patrol car refuted Smith’s claims, and she retracted her allegation after a formal investigation was launched.
“Actual victims of sexual assault never really stop suffering. They suffer physical pain during and after the assault. They must become stronger every day because they suffer emotionally every day. And when they bravely stand up and speak the truth, they still face devastating attacks on their credibility,” said United States Attorney Bob Murray. “A false accusation of sexual abuse is a despicable criminal act. It is a silent thief that steals so much from actual victims. This office and our law enforcement partners will continue to work hard and do our part to ensure these crimes are punished.”
This crime was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Case No. 21-cr-00091-NDF
Justice Department and EEOC Warn Against Disability DiscriminationRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) today each released a technical assistance document about disability discrimination when employers use artificial intelligence (AI) and other software tools to make employment decisions.
Employers increasingly use AI and other software tools to help them select new employees, monitor performance, and determine pay or promotions. Employers may give computer-based tests to applicants or use computer software to score applicants’ resumes. Many of these tools use algorithms or AI. These tools may result in unlawful discrimination against people with disabilities in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The Justice Department’s guidance document, Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence, and Disability Discrimination in Hiring, provides a broad overview of rights and responsibilities in plain language, making it easily accessible to people without a legal or technical background. This document:
- Provides examples of the types of technological tools that employers are using;
- Clarifies that, when designing or choosing technological tools, employers must consider how their tools could impact different disabilities;
- Explains employers’ obligations under the ADA when using algorithmic decision-making tools, including when an employer must provide a reasonable accommodation; and
- Provides information for employees on what to do if they believe they have experienced discrimination.
The EEOC released a technical assistance document, The Americans with Disabilities Act and the Use of Software, Algorithms, and Artificial Intelligence to Assess Job Applicants and Employees, focused on preventing discrimination against job seekers and employees with disabilities. Based on the ADA, regulations, and existing policy guidance, this document outlines issues that employers should consider to ensure that the use of software tools in employment does not disadvantage workers or applicants with disabilities in ways that violate the ADA. The document highlights promising practices to reduce the likelihood of disability discrimination. The EEOC technical assistance focuses on three primary concerns under the ADA:
- Employers should have a process in place to provide reasonable accommodations when using algorithmic decision-making tools;
- Without proper safeguards, workers with disabilities may be “screened out” from consideration in a job or promotion even if they can do the job with or without a reasonable accommodation; and
- If the use of AI or algorithms results in applicants or employees having to provide information about disabilities or medical conditions, it may result in prohibited disability-related inquiries or medical exams.
“Algorithmic tools should not stand as a barrier for people with disabilities seeking access to jobs,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This guidance will help the public understand how an employer’s use of such tools may violate the Americans with Disabilities Act, so that people with disabilities know their rights and employers can take action to avoid discrimination.”
“New technologies should not become new ways to discriminate. If employers are aware of the ways AI and other technologies can discriminate against persons with disabilities, they can take steps to prevent it,” said EEOC Chair Charlotte A. Burrows. “As a nation, we can come together to create workplaces where all employees are treated fairly. This new technical assistance document will help ensure that persons with disabilities are included in the employment opportunities of the future.”
The EEOC’s technical assistance document is part of its Artificial Intelligence and Algorithmic Fairness Initiative to ensure that the use of software, including artificial intelligence (AI), used in hiring and other employment decisions complies with the federal civil rights laws that the EEOC enforces. In addition to its technical assistance, the EEOC released a summary document providing tips for job applicants and employees.
For more information on the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and its disability work, please visit www.justice.gov/crt. For more information on the ADA, please call the Justice Department’s toll-free ADA information line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit www.ada.gov. Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may file a complaint at https://civilrights.justice.gov/.
Juneau Man Sentenced to 6.5 Years for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
JUNEAU – A Juneau man was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Timothy M. Burgess to six and a half years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally possessing firearms.
According to court documents, Clyde Edward Pasterski, Jr., 42, possessed 13 firearms, one of them being stolen, and eight seal bombs when Juneau Police Department (JPD) executed a search warrant in May 2020 at his residence. Pasterski was previously convicted of two felonies by the State of Alaska and therefore is not allowed to own or have firearms in his possession. Law enforcement also found a ballistic vest carrier with steel plate inserts and more than two grams of methamphetamine and four grams of heroin. Pasterski actively resisted and fought against the JPD officers at his home and then during his interview at JPD. When he was informed that he was being arrested, Pasterski tried to grab the officer’s gun which was secured in the officer’s holster.
“Illicit drugs and guns are a dangerous combination, especially when those guns are possessed by a convicted felon,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Our office will continue to partner with federal, state and local agencies to keep firearms out of the wrong hands.”
“Mr. Pasterski knew he was not allowed to have firearms, but rather than follow the law he chose to procure and possess at least 13 more of them,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan T. McPherson. “His actions during and after his arrest show how dangerous he is to the community, so this sentence is well earned.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Juneau Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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.
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Hudson County Man Charged with Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Hudson County, New Jersey, man was arrested today for possessing images of child sexual abuse, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Jonathan Lattif, 44, of Jersey City, is charged by complaint with one count of possessing child pornography. Lattif is scheduled to have his initial appearance by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jose R. Almonte.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On March 18, 2022, Lattif possessed at least three videos depicting sexual abuse of minors, including prepubescent children, on his mobile device.
Lattif has a prior state conviction for possession of child pornography. Accordingly, a charge of possession of child pornography depicting prepubescent children by a repeat offender carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jason J. Molina in Newark; and Customs and Border Proection Officers from the Port of New York/Newark, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations New York Field Office, under the direction of Acting Port Director TenaVel T. Thomas, with the investigation leading to the charge.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Fatime Meka Cano of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.