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Tuesday 24 August 2021
Baltimore Drug Trafficking Organization Leader and Supplier Sentenced to over 12 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine BaseRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Paul W. Grimm sentenced Adam Martin, a/k/a “Fats”, age 38, of Baltimore, to 150 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base.
The sentence was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Jonathan F. Lenzner; Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Sobocinski of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; and Commissioner Michael Harrison of the Baltimore Police Department.
According to his plea agreement, from at least September 2018 to June 2019, Martin participated in a drug trafficking organization (“DTO”) operating near Edmonson Village in Baltimore, Maryland. The DTO sold cocaine and other narcotics on a daily basis in street-level quantities. During this period of time, the FBI and other law enforcement investigators intercepted phone communications of DTO members, conducted physical and electronic surveillance, purchased narcotics from DTO members, and executed multiple search warrants at locations used by the DTO to store and process narcotics.
From November 2018 to February 2019, FBI investigators intercepted phone calls from Martin and his co-conspirators where they discussed the distribution of narcotics at a DTO controlled drug shop. Surveillance conducted by FBI investigators also revealed that Martin controlled the cocaine base supply and other narcotics to the DTO’s street-level distributors.
As stated in his plea agreement, on April 10, 2019, the FBI executed a search warrant at a West Franklin Street residence where Martin stored narcotics. During the search of the residence, agents recovered four firearms, multiple vials of cocaine base packaged for sale, and other narcotics. On the same day, agents searched a Walbrook Avenue residence where Martin stored cocaine base. As a result of the second search and seizure, law enforcement recovered a loaded firearm and over 200 grams of cocaine base.
Martin agrees that he possessed the narcotics with the intent to distribute and that he possessed the firearms in relation to the drug conspiracy. Martin also agrees that over the course of the conspiracy, he distributed over 280 grams of cocaine base.
Acting United States Attorney Jonathan F. Lenzner praised the FBI and Baltimore Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Lenzner thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew DellaBetta who prosecuted the case.
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Arch Family Dentistry Office Managers Charged in Superseding IndictmentRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Justyn Arch, age 34, and Trystan Arch, age 31, both of Valparaiso, Indiana were both charged in a Superseding Indictment unsealed today. The Superseding Indictment contains 29 counts alleging various violations of federal law against these two individuals announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
According to documents in this case, Arch Complete Family Dentistry, with offices located in Chesterton, Crown Point, and briefly in Knox, Indiana, was an authorized Indiana Medicaid provider of dental procedures. In October 2017, Justyn Arch, Vice President of Arch Complete Family Dentistry, also managed the Crown Point office. Trystan Arch managed the Chesterton office.
The Superseding Indictment alleged that Justyn and Trystan Arch executed a scheme to defraud Indiana Medicaid by causing false and fictitious entries in patient files, and using the names and information related to these patients, to reflect that Arch dentists performed dental surgery when in fact no surgery had been performed. The claims totaled more than $350,000 in false and fictitious claims to Indiana Medicaid.
Additionally, the Superseding indictment alleges that Justyn Arch committed tax evasion and money laundering related to the funds obtained from this fraud and that Trystan Arch committed false tax filings, bankruptcy fraud and bankruptcy obstruction, related to the funds obtained from this fraud. Both are also charged with multiple instances of aggravated identity theft.
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a Superseding Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the Judge after a consideration of federal statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Indiana Attorney General’s Office Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Porter County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Northern Indiana Region 10 Office of the U.S. Trustee, Nancy J. Gargula. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Philip C. Benson.
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Anaheim Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Conspiracy in Stanislaus and San Joaquin CountiesRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Jose Reyes-Pineda, 48, of Anaheim, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Reyes and co-defendants Genaro Serrato-Calles, 51, and Antonio Valencia-Hernandez, 65, both of Modesto, and Antonio Castellanos, 38, of Whittier, were charged with conspiring over a two-year period to distribute drugs in Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties. As part of the drug conspiracy, Reyes delivered over 11 pounds of methamphetamine to Valencia for distribution in Modesto.
Reyes is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd on Nov. 15, 2021. Castellanos, Serrato, and Valencia previously pleaded guilty. Castellanos is scheduled for sentencing on Oct. 18, 2021, and Serrato and Valencia are both scheduled for sentencing on Nov. 8, 2021. Each defendant faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10 million. The actual sentences, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Homeland Security Investigations; the Central Valley High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force; the San Joaquin County Metropolitan Narcotics Task Force; the Stanislaus Drug Enforcement Agency; and the Orange County Sheriff’s Special Investigations Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen Escobar and Melanie Alsworth are prosecuting the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
ATM Fraud Duo Sentenced to 48 Months in Prison for Conspiracy, Bank Fraud, and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Isaleb Anofils, 32, of Vero Beach, Florida, and Donyell Garland, 32, of Tallahassee, Florida, were each sentenced on Friday and last month, respectively, to 48 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, multiple counts of bank fraud, and aggravated identity theft. The sentences, following the defendants’ guilty pleas last October, were announced by Jason R. Coody, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
“As our citizens become more reliant on web-based banking, it is paramount that our financial institutions are not defrauded and their customers’ personal identifiable information is secure,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Coody. “The volume of fraudulent ATM transactions and the sophistication employed here demonstrate the significant threat posed by this type of activity. Given the cooperative efforts of our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, these criminals were arrested within weeks of the commencement of their crime spree, thereby safeguarding the personal identifying information and assets of countless other victims.”
Court documents reflect, that between January 1, 2018, and April 9, 2018, Anofils and Garland conspired to defraud multiple federally insured financial institutions. The defendants used a combination of a cell phone spoofing app and various Internet websites to obtain personally identifiable information of victims. Anofils and Garland then used that information to conduct 285 fraudulent ATM transactions at Tallahassee-area financial institutions. In total, Anofils and Garland stole or attempted to steal over $151,000 from 47 different banking customers.
“The collaborative and efficient effort between our agencies has again resulted in the arrest and conviction of those preying on innocent and hardworking citizens,” said Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil.
“This successful investigation and resulting prosecution stand as a testament to the high level of competence and excellence in law enforcement displayed by the men and women who serve at all levels of federal, state and local law enforcement in the North Florida district,” said Resident Agent in Charge Seth Reister, Tallahassee Resident U.S. Secret Service. “As criminals and their enterprises have evolved both in sophistication and technical proficiency, the district’s investigative agencies have met the challenge through agility and dedication to continued innovations in both deterrent and proactive technological solutions to cyber and other emerging technology crime trends.”
Both defendants’ 48-month prison sentences will be followed by 5 years supervised release. Both defendants were also ordered to pay restitution to the victims.
This case resulted from a joint investigation by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen prosecuted the 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.
Monday 23 August 2021
William D. Wood Jr. Enters Federal Guilty Plea in Chili’s Double Homicide CaseRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – William D. Wood, Jr. pled guilty today to federal charges related to the September 2018 robbery and murders he committed at the Chili’s Grill and Bar in Dewitt, New York, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Wood, age 35, of Syracuse, entered guilty pleas to three federal felonies: one count of robbery and two counts of using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and murder. He admitted that in September 2018, he planned and carried out an armed robbery of the Chili’s in Dewitt, and that during the commission of the robbery he directly caused the deaths of two people by use of a firearm.
Wood further admitted that during the early morning hours of September 15, 2018, armed with a loaded handgun, he forced his way into the back door of Chili’s, where four employees remained to close the restaurant. Wood admitted that he held all four employees on the ground at gunpoint, and after obtaining the available cash from the restaurant’s safe, shot and killed Stephen Gudknecht and Kristopher Hicks. Wood admitted that his gun malfunctioned as he attempted to shoot another employee, allowing time for that employee and a fourth employee to hide and flee from Wood.
Wood’s sentencing is scheduled for December 29, 2021 before Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy in Binghamton, New York. He faces maximum sentences of 20 years on the robbery conviction, and life on each of the two firearms offenses. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors; however, by statute, the sentences imposed on each count of conviction in this case must run consecutively to one another.
Wood was previously sentenced in Onondaga County Court to life without parole following his plea of guilty to related state crimes, including two counts of Murder in the First Degree. Wood will serve his state sentence first, and if ever released by New York State, he would be surrendered to federal custody to serve any undischarged portion of his federal term of imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the ATF, the Town of Dewitt Police Department, and the New York State Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lisa M. Fletcher and Michael D. Gadarian.
Wesson Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Wesson man was sentenced to seven years in prison for possession of child pornography, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jack Staton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
According to court documents, Gunner Nathaniel Speed, 25, was stopped by the Flowood Police Department on November 15, 2019, for a traffic violation. He was found to have over 150 pictures and videos portraying children having sex and simulated sex with adult males on his cell phone.
Speed was charged in a federal criminal indictment on June 10, 2020. He pled guilty on March 1, 2021, to possession of child pornography.
Speed was sentenced today to serve 84 months in federal prison, followed by 8 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $214,301.43 in restitution.
The case is part of a joint investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Flowood Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Chalk.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
Union City Man Sentenced to 4 Years for a Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 4 years in jail and 10 years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Matthew Swanson, 30, of Union City, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, in and around August 2020, Swanson possessed computer images depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Swanson came to the attention of law enforcement after Kik reported that a Kik user was engaged in child exploitation activity. That user was ultimately determined to be Swanson, who confessed to the FBI that he had been downloading child sexual abuse material for years and had recently used Kik to obtain illegal material.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Swanson.
U.S. Minerals, Inc. admits Clean Air Act violation for exposing employees to arsenic at Anaconda plantRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – U.S. Minerals, Inc., a corporation accused of exposing employees to elevated levels of arsenic at its Anaconda facility, today admitted violating the Clean Air Act, said Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson.
In addition, U.S. Minerals has agreed to settle a related civil case regarding violations brought by the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
U.S. Minerals pleaded guilty to one count of negligent endangerment, a misdemeanor, under the Clean Air Act as charged in a criminal information. The corporation faces a maximum penalty of five years of probation and a fine as determined through statute.
Under the terms of a plea agreement in the criminal case, the government and U.S. Minerals will jointly recommend to the Court that the company be placed on probation for five years and pay a $393,200 fine. The agreement recommends probationary conditions in which U.S. Minerals will implement a nationwide environmental health and safety plan that applies to all of U.S. Minerals’ facilities throughout the United States and a medical monitoring program for current and former employees who have been exposed to elevated levels of arsenic during their work at the Anaconda plant, which has ceased operations.
U.S. Minerals also has agreed to resolve a related civil case brought by OSHA, alleging 19 serious health and safety violations with a total penalty of $106,800. Under the terms of that agreement, U.S. Minerals will accept all citations as issued and pay the penalty as assessed.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing in the criminal case was set for Dec. 10 in Butte before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen.
“Throughout Montana’s long history with mining, operators like U.S. Minerals have sacrificed worker safety for profit. These operators need to know that there are severe consequences to this kind of callous behavior. This is an important case because it not only holds the operator criminally responsible for poisoning its own workers, but it also prevents U.S. Minerals from doing this again anywhere in the country. I want to thank Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric E. Nelson, the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, the Department of Labor, Office of Safety and Health Administration, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services for their diligent work on investigating this case and bringing these wrongdoers to justice,” Acting U.S. Attorney Johnson said.
“This case demonstrates that EPA and its federal law enforcement partners will hold companies accountable when they engage in conduct that places their employees in danger from exposure to airborne releases of hazardous air pollutants such as arsenic,” said Lance Ehrig, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Montana. “The criminal and civil penalties serve to provide deterrence, and the 5-year national compliance plan requires U.S. Minerals to implement an inspections, training and auditing program to ensure a safer working environment at all its facilities. Finally, and importantly, health monitoring will be assured for current and former employees at the U.S Minerals Anaconda facility that were exposed to airborne arsenic.”
“The employees of U.S. Minerals were finally given the justice they deserved through a joint effort between the Environmental Protection Agency, the United States Department of Justice, and our staff at the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Working together, we were able to leverage our resources and hold U.S. Minerals accountable for overexposing employees to inorganic arsenic and violating multiple federal laws,” said Galen Blanton, Regional Administrator for OSHA’s Denver Region 8.
The government alleged in court documents that U.S. Minerals, which has multiple facilities throughout the United States, manufactured silicate abrasive, a substance sold to industrial and governmental customers. Raw materials used in the production process were obtained from a copper slag pile located within the Anaconda Superfund site. The government further alleged that from July 2015 until February 2019, U.S. Minerals negligently released into the air inorganic arsenic, a hazardous air pollutant, and exposed employees. Exposure to arsenic is known to cause lung and skin diseases, including an increased risk of skin cancer, and may also cause cardiovascular effects and other cancers.
The government further alleged that in July 2015, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) inspected the site, collected air samples from throughout the outdoor facility and conducted personal monitoring of employees on site. An analysis determined employees were exposed to levels of arsenic and lead, which exceeded both NIOSH and OSHA exposure limits, and that there were high levels of arsenic and lead in the ambient air.
In late 2015, OSHA inspected the facility and found numerous violations of health and safety standards. The violations included employees being exposed to inorganic arsenic at levels that ranged between 1.25 and 4.75 times the OSHA permissible exposure limits. As a result of the inspection, OSHA issued 19 serious violations with penalties totaling $106,800.
The government also alleged that in April 2018, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services learned of a U.S. Minerals employee diagnosed with arsenic poisoning at a local hospital. Over the next few days, the state learned of three additional U.S. Minerals employees who had high levels of arsenic in their urine. State officials conducted a site visit in June 2018, noted “apparent inhalation hazards” and shared their findings with U.S. Minerals. A second inspection in October 2018 found the previous violations had not been addressed and that employees were still exposed to hazards.
In addition, the government alleged that on Feb. 20, 2019, after the investigation discovered numerous employees with high levels of arsenic, the state issued an order for U.S. Minerals to cease and desist operations until it implemented controls and protected its workers. The state lifted the order and allowed U.S. Minerals to resume operating in March 2019 under certain conditions. One of those conditions required U.S. Minerals to provide the state with quarterly medical monitoring reports related to arsenic and lead testing results on employees. Documents provided by U.S. Minerals to the state showed there were still employees who periodically tested high for arsenic and lead.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric E. Nelson are prosecuting the criminal case, which was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, OSHA, NIOSH, and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of the Solicitor is litigating the OSHA matter.
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Three South Lake Tahoe Residents Charged with Drug Trafficking and Texas Man Charged with Trafficking FirearmsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned three indictments on Aug. 19, charging four individuals with drug and gun crimes committed in and around South Lake Tahoe, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced
The indictment against Joshua Daniel Wilson, 34, of South Lake Tahoe, and Cody Lee Cramer, 39, of Lampasas, Texas, charges them together with one count of dealing firearms without a license. The indictment also Wilson with one count of distributing at least 500 grams of methamphetamine, four counts of distributing at least 50 grams of methamphetamine, and one count of dealing firearms without a license.
According to court documents, Wilson sold methamphetamine to an informant multiple times over the course of five months. During this course of dealing, Wilson also offered to sell the informant other drugs, including LSD and MDMA. During that same period, Wilson and Cramer sold the informant firearms, including an AR-15 style rifle, a shotgun, and several handguns. Some of the weapons had been manufactured without serial numbers. Such weapons are often referred to as “ghost guns,” and the lack of a serial number impairs the ability of law enforcement agencies to trace them.
The grand jury also returned a four-count indictment against Patricia Louise Ekizian, 69, of South Lake Tahoe, charging her with distribution of at least 50 grams of methamphetamine. According to court documents, Ekizian sold methamphetamine to an informant on multiple occasions over several months.
Finally, the grand jury returned a two-count indictment against Frank Ray Bacon, 53, of South Lake Tahoe, charging him with distribution of at least 50 grams of methamphetamine. According to court documents, Bacon sold methamphetamine to an informant on two occasions.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, South Lake Tahoe Police Department, El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. During a coordinated law enforcement operation earlier this month, agents and officers executed arrest warrants in South Lake Tahoe, related to the illicit interstate drug and weapons trafficking that ultimately resulted in the three indictments. Assistant United States Attorney James Conolly is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Wilson faces a 10-year mandatory minimum prison sentence, a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, and a $10 million fine for the count of distributing at least 500 grams of methamphetamine. If convicted of distributing at least 50 grams of methamphetamine, Wilson faces a five-year mandatory minimum prison sentence , a maximum statutory penalty of 40 years in prison, and a fine of up to $5 million. If convicted of the charge of dealing firearms without a license, Wilson and Cramer each face a maximum of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
If convicted, Ekizian faces a five-year mandatory minimum prison sentence, a maximum statutory penalty of 40 years in prison, and a fine of up to $5 million.
If convicted, Bacon faces a maximum statutory penalty of 40 years in prison, and a fine of up to $5 million for each count. Each count also carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison.
Any sentence 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.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, 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.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud for Foreign Exchange Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A Texas man pleaded guilty today in the Southern District of Texas to defrauding investors that he solicited via social media by falsely promising high rates of return and low or no-risk returns on foreign exchange investments.
According to court documents, Kelvin Ramirez, 25, of Houston, used social media platforms to falsely promote himself as a successful trader of foreign exchange investments or “forex” and attract investors. Through his Instagram accounts, Ramirez marketed “investment groups” and “private accounts” that purportedly traded in forex and were managed by Ramirez. For both types of investments, Ramirez solicited individuals by falsely promising high returns on investments, making false representations about the risk associated with the investments and falsely guaranteeing returns on investment. Through his scheme, Ramirez fraudulently obtained more than $650,000 from over 100 individuals, and then used investors’ funds for personal expenses.
Ramirez pleaded guilty to wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 9 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. In addition, he has agreed to pay full restitution to victims, including a monetary loss of at least $687,792.93. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Inspector General Jay N. Lerner of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and Special Agent in Charge Perrye K. Turner of the FBI’s Houston Field Office made the announcement.
The FDIC’s Office of Inspector General and the FBI are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Laura Connelly of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case.
Individuals who believe they may be a victim should visit https://www.justice.gov/criminal-vns/case/Kelvin-Ramirez for more information.
Six Southern California Companies Convicted of Scheming to Avoid Payment of $1.8 Billion in Duties on Imported Chinese AluminumRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A federal jury today found six corporate entities guilty of participating in a wide-ranging conspiracy to defraud the United States via a wire-and-customs fraud scheme in which huge amounts of aluminum – disguised as “pallets” to avoid $1.8 billion in customs duties – were exported to the United States and were “sold” to fraudulently inflate a China-based company’s revenues and deceive investors worldwide.
The jury found the following two aluminum businesses and four warehousing companies – all of which were related to one another – guilty of one count of conspiracy, nine counts of wire fraud and seven counts of passing false and fraudulent papers through a customhouse:
- Perfectus Aluminium Inc., an Ontario-based business;
- Perfectus Aluminium Acquisitions LLC, a subsidiary of Perfectus Aluminium formed in 2014 to oversee several companies that received aluminum pallets shipped to the United States after duties were imposed on Chinese aluminum in 2011;
- Scuderia Development LLC, which owns a warehouse in Riverside;
- 1001 Doubleday LLC, which owns a warehouse in Ontario;
- Von Karman – Main Street LLC, which owns a warehouse in Irvine;
- 10681 Production Avenue LLC, which owns a warehouse in Fontana.
The two Perfectus companies also were found guilty of seven additional counts of international promotional money laundering.
According to evidence presented at the nine-day trial, China Zhongwang Holdings Ltd., Asia’s largest manufacturer of aluminum extrusions, Zhongtian Liu, the company’s former president and chairman, several individual defendants and the corporate defendants found guilty today lied to U.S. Customs and Border Protection to avoid paying the United States $1.8 billion in anti-dumping and countervailing duties (AD/CVD) that were imposed in 2011 on certain types of extruded aluminum imported into the United States from China.
The aluminum sold to United States-based companies controlled by Liu was simply aluminum extrusions that were spot-welded together to make them appear to be functional pallets. In fact, there were no customers for the 2.2 million pallets imported by the Liu-controlled companies between 2011 and 2014, and no pallets were ever sold.
The vast majority of the pallets were imported through the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and then stockpiled at four large warehouses in Southern California, all of which were purchased at Liu’s direction.
Liu and his co-defendants orchestrated the bogus sales of aluminum to Liu-controlled companies in Southern California to falsely inflate China Zhongwang’s value. Liu was the majority owner of China Zhongwang, which has been listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong since a 2009 initial public offering that raised $1.26 billion.
After the AD/CVD duties were put in place in 2011, the company’s annual reports falsely claimed that there was a robust demand for the aluminum pallets in the United States. Although the annual reports asserted that the aluminum pallets were being sold to independent third parties, and defendants used these reported “sales” to inflate China Zhongwang’s reported sales volume and purported volume of exports to the United States, in fact the aluminum was being stockpiled by Liu-controlled entities in more than 2 million square feet of warehouse space owned by the warehouse defendants in Southern California, as well as at Liu’s New Jersey facility.
Since there was no actual demand for the pallets, defendants Liu and China Zhongwang arranged for aluminum melting facilities to be built and acquired, which were to be used to reconfigure the aluminum imported as pallets into a form with commercial value.
The defendants facilitated their schemes by laundering hundreds of millions of dollars through shell companies to the U.S.-based aluminum companies controlled by Liu. The funds were then transferred to China Zhongwang and the other shell companies as payments for the aluminum.
United States District Judge R. Gary Klausner has scheduled a December 13 sentencing hearing in this case.
The remaining four defendants charged in the 2019 federal grand jury indictment in this case have yet to appear in court in the United States to face the criminal charges in this matter:
- Zhongtian Liu, 57, a billionaire Chinese citizen who is a former Tustin resident, and who is the former president and former chairman of the board of China Zhongwang Holdings Ltd.;
- China Zhongwang Holdings Ltd., a publicly traded aluminum company based in Liaoyang City that at the time of the indictment was the largest aluminum extrusion manufacturer in Asia and the second largest in the world;
- Zhaohua Chen, 62, a Chinese national who allegedly was a close friend of Liu and a key player in the scheme; and
- Xiang Chun Shao, a.k.a. “Johnson Shao,” 60, most recently of Irvine, who allegedly managed a collection of Southern California businesses that pretended to be independent third parties importing the Chinese aluminum.
In 2017, the United States Attorney’s Office filed civil forfeiture actions against the four Southern California warehouses used by Perfectus to store the pallets. In 2018, the government filed a fifth civil forfeiture complaint against “approximately 279,808 Aluminum Structures in the Shape of Pallets,” about half of which were seized in early 2017 at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, and the other half were seized from three other warehouses Perfectus was using to store the pallets. Those civil asset forfeiture cases have been stayed pending the completion of the criminal prosecution, in which the government is seeking the criminal forfeiture of the warehouses and seized aluminum.
Homeland Security Investigations and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorneys Poonam G. Kumar and Roger A. Hsieh of the Major Frauds Section and Gregory D. Bernstein of the General Crimes Section are prosecuting this case. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan S. Galatzan, Chief of the Asset Forfeiture Section, is handling the asset forfeiture-related portion of this case.
Sioux City Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Guns.Read the Press Release
A man from Sioux City, Iowa who admitted being a user of illegal drugs, and who was found in possession of guns, was sentenced to federal prison for firearms charges.
Jason Mota, age 27, from Sioux City, Iowa received the prison term after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a drug user.
Evidence at his detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearings revealed Mota was an unlawful user and trafficker of cocaine and marijuana, and illegally in possession of five guns. On May 3, 2020, Mota’s crime was discovered when officers responded to a shots fired call. Citizen witnesses described a male walking on the sidewalk firing handguns into the air. They were able to inform law enforcement of where the shooter went after he fired the weapons. When police approached Mota’s apartment, Mota walked out and confessed to being the shooter. Mota gave consent to search his home, and officers found guns, $2,000 in cash, packaging materials, a digital scale, pounds of marijuana and 100 grams of cocaine.
At his sentencing, Mota claimed he had been hording drugs to support his own personal use in a time of pandemic. The district court did not credit the claim and instead concluded he had possessed his guns in connection with his drug trafficking activity.
Mota was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Mota was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a two-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Mota is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City, Iowa Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-4034.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Sioux Center Man Sentenced to over Four Years in Federal Prison for Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
An unlawful drug user who possessed more than a dozen guns was sentenced August 18, 2021 to more than four years in federal prison.
Derrick Jager, age 19, from Sioux Center, Iowa, received the prison term after a March 19, 2021 guilty plea to one count of being an unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm.
Evidence at Jager’s detention, change of plea, and sentencing hearings revealed that Jager, who was an unlawful user of marijuana and cocaine, stole a dozen guns from a local licensed firearms dealer in three separate burglaries. Jager illegally disposed of these guns while also trafficking illegal drugs.
Jager was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Jager was sentenced to 54 months’ imprisonment. He was ordered to pay $4,400 in restitution. He must also serve a 2-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Jager is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the O’Brien County Sheriff’s Office, Sioux Center, Iowa Police Department, Sioux County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Department of Justice – Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-4070.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Scottsdale Man Sentenced to Eight Years for AssaultRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Lawrence Lorenzo Blackshire, 39, of Scottsdale, Arizona, was sentenced earlier this month by U.S. District Judge Susan Brnovich to eight years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. A jury previously convicted Blackshire of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury of an Intimate Partner, Simple Assault, and Unlawful Imprisonment.
On September 11, 2018, on the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Blackshire assaulted the victim. The assault resulted in the victim having a broken nose and various contusions on her head and body. Blackshire prevented the victim from leaving the residence for approximately twelve hours. Blackshire is an enrolled member of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Sharon Sexton, Assistant U.S. Attorney and Kevin Pooley, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-19-1033-PHX-SMB
RELEASE NUMBER: 2021- 053_Blackshire# # #
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.Richlands Man Sentenced to 57 Months for Possessing Sawed-off ShotgunRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – A Richlands, Va., man, who was previously convicted of several felonies making him ineligible to possess a firearm, was sentenced last week to 57 months in federal prison for possessing a sawed-off shotgun.
According to court documents, Terry Mitchell, 42, and two women were pulled over in Bluefield, Virginia on July 23, 2020 at 3:30 a.m. The vehicle had several lights out. Mitchell was in the rear passenger seat. It was determined the driver had a suspended driver’s license and officers observed a controlled substance in the car.
All three occupants were asked to step out of the vehicle to be impounded. While conducting an inventory of the vehicle before it was towed, officers discovered a sawed-off, short barrel shotgun with a 12-gauge shotgun shell loaded in the chamber. The shotgun was hidden under a blanket on the floorboard of the vehicle. Officers also discovered a bag filled with numerous syringes, smoking devices, scales, empty baggies, and a small amount of methamphetamine.
Mitchell pleaded guilty in May 2021 to one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Bluefield Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Murphy is prosecuted the case.
Raytown Man Pleads Guilty to Meth, Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Raytown, Missouri, man who was beaten and shot during a robbery that resulted in police officers discovering illegal drugs at his residence, pleaded guilty in federal court today to possessing methamphetamine and heroin to distribute.
Daniel A. Briscoe, 45, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and one count of possessing heroin with the intent to distribute.
Kansas City police officers were called to Briscoe’s residence at approximately 5:17 a.m. on Sept. 3, 2019, regarding a shooting. When officers arrived, they found Briscoe on a neighbor’s porch. He had three gunshot wounds to his legs and blood was coming from his head. Briscoe told officers he was in his bedroom with a female companion when he was robbed, pistol whipped, and shot by two men. He said the men took $52,000, his cell phone, and his 2009 Buick Cadillac. Before he was transported to the hospital, Briscoe gave his consent for officers to search his residence.
Officers followed blood droplets leading to a bedroom, where they found pools of blood. In the bedroom where the shooting occurred, detectives found a grocery sack that contained nine bags, which contained a total of 385.9 grams of pure methamphetamine. In the kitchen, detectives found two suspected drug ledgers and, in the freezer, four bags that contained a total of approximately 3.78 grams of heroin.
Under federal statutes, Briscoe is subject to a sentence of up to 40 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashleigh A. Ragner. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department.
Presque Isle Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Presque Isle woman pleaded guilty in federal court today to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Donald E. Clark announced.
According to court records, between approximately July 2018 and May 2019, members of the conspiracy obtained methamphetamine in western and southern states from sources in Mexico. Crystal Greenlaw, 31, and her co-conspirators then distributed the drugs in Aroostook County and other parts of central and northern Maine. Greenlaw made at least two trips to obtain methamphetamine and transport it back to Maine.
Greenlaw faces between 10 years and life in prison and a fine of up to $10 million. She also faces between five years and a lifetime of supervised release. She will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency investigated this case with the assistance of multiple state and local law enforcement agencies.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Presque Isle Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Presque Isle man was sentenced in federal court today for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Donald E. Clark announced.
U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Joel Strother, a/k/a “Jody,” 42, to 27 years in prison and five years of supervised release. Strother pleaded guilty in January 2021.
According to court records, between approximately July 2018 and May 2019, Strother and other members of the conspiracy obtained methamphetamine in western and southern states from sources in Mexico. Strother personally made trips to Georgia, Arizona, California and Mexico and obtained methamphetamine. He also recruited and directed others to participate in similar trips. Once Strother and his co-conspirators transported the methamphetamine back to Maine, they distributed the drugs in Aroostook County and other parts of central and northern Maine. Strother also recruited and directed others to distribute the drugs.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency investigated this case with the assistance of multiple state and local law enforcement agencies.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Portland Woman Pleads Guilty for Role in Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.— A Portland woman pleaded guilty today for her role in a fraud scheme whereby she and a co-conspirator would steal mail from residential mailboxes and use stolen personal identification information to defraud local banks.
Latanya Jenkins, 50, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit bank fraud, mail theft, and aggravated identity theft.
According to court documents, beginning on an unknown date and continuing until at least July 7, 2020, Jenkins and an accomplice, Demontae Sanders, 48, also of Portland, conspired with one another to steal mail from residential mailboxes throughout the Portland Metropolitan Area. Jenkins and Sanders stole checks, credit cards, and other personal identity information that they used to impersonate victims and open accounts at several local credit unions and banks. The pair used the accounts to defraud these financial institutions.
To further their scheme, Jenkins and Sanders communicated with one another by text and used the internet at Jenkins’ residence to open several bank accounts using stolen information. Together, they collected hundreds of stolen financial documents including bank statements, checks, tax returns, U.S. Passports, and other government-issued identification documents. They also stole and cashed an Economic Impact Payment check issued by the U.S. Treasury.
On September 24, 2020, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an 18-count indictment charging Jenkins and Sanders with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and mail theft.
Jenkins faces a maximum sentence of 37 years in prison; a $1.5 million fine or twice her criminally derived gains, whichever is larger; and five years of supervised release. Aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory two-year prison sentence. She will be sentenced on December 14, 2021 before U.S. District Court Judge Anna J. Brown.
As part of the plea agreement, Jenkins has agreed to pay restitution in full to her victims as identified by the government and ordered by the court.
Sanders pleaded guilty to the same charges on May 4, 2021. He will be sentenced on November 11, 2021.
Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug of the District of Oregon made the announcement.
Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service jointly investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Uram is prosecuting the case.
Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – An Ohio man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime.
According to court documents, Dan Bean, 42, of Toledo, admitted that in 2018, officers with the Huntington Police Department searched his residence on Artisan Avenue in Huntington and seized approximately 55 grams of cocaine and 20 grams of crack cocaine. Bean admitted to officers that he sold cocaine and crack cocaine in the Huntington area.
Bean pleaded guilty to possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine and faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on November 29, 2021.
Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the plea hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor is handling the prosecution.
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. 3:18-cr-000157.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin and Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOHNNY TRIPLETT, age 33 of New Orleans, pled guilty on August 19, 2021 to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine hydrochloride and 100 grams of heroin.
According to court documents, TRIPLETT and others conspired to transport cocaine hydrochloride and heroin between Texas and New Orleans.
TRIPLETT faces a minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years and a maximum term of 40 years of imprisonment. A fine of up to $5,000,000 may also be imposed or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person. TRIPLETT will be placed on supervised release after imprisonment for a period of not less than 4 years. Additionally, a mandatory $100 special assessment fee will be assessed. U.S. District Court Judge Fallon set sentencing for November 19, 2021.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”). OCDETF is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Privitera and Jonathan L. Shih are in charge of the prosecution.
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New Britain Man Arrested in Manchester Pleads Guilty to Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
Leonard C Boyle, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HILARY ANTHONY BROWNE, 31, of New Britain, pleaded guilty today to firearm possession and drug distribution offenses.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in late 2019, the Manchester Police Department, East Central Narcotics Task Force and Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force conducted an investigation of Browne for selling cocaine. Browne was arrested in Manchester on December 20, 2019. At the time of his arrest, he possessed a small quantity of cocaine. After Browne informed an officer that he possessed a firearm, ballistic vest and a quantity of cocaine at his New Britain apartment, a consent search of the apartment revealed a loaded semi-automatic Pieper, Model 1908/Basculant, 6.35mm pistol; a bullet proof vest; and a pill bottle containing 4.7 grams of cocaine.
Browne’s criminal history includes state convictions for robbery in the first degree with the threat of a firearm, burglary and failure to appear.
Browne pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years; felon in possession of body armor, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of three years; and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
This matter has been investigated by the Manchester Police Department, East Central Narcotics Task Force, Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan Keefe.
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.
Nevada Man Pleads Guilty for Tribal FraudRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Nevada resident and former manager of the Warm Springs Construction Enterprise (WSCE) pleaded guilty today in federal court for his role in a fraud scheme targeting the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.
Thomas Valentino Adams pleaded guilty to theft of funds from a Tribal organization.
According to court documents, the Warm Springs Economic Development Corporation (WSEDC), also known as Warm Springs Ventures (WSV), is a Tribal organization owned and operated by the Warm Springs Tribes. WSV operates as the management organization for several Tribal business entities, including WSCE.
Adams and an accomplice; Roderick Ariwite, the former CEO of WSEDC, Adams’ manager at WSCE, and resident of the Fort Hall Reservation in Idaho; created a construction company called Warbonnet Construction Services LLC. While drawing tribal salaries and travel reimbursements, Adams and Ariwite engaged in work projects for Warbonnet. In 2018, Adams and Ariwite used tribal funds to hire a subcontractor for a Warbonnet project and submitted vouchers for expenses they incurred they took on behalf of themselves and Warbonnet, which were reimbursed with tribal funds. In total, Adams and Ariwite’s scheme cost the Warm Springs Tribes more than $50,000.
On September 24, 2020, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Adams and Ariwite with conspiracy and theft of funds from a Tribal organization.
Adams faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on November 15, 2021 before U.S. District Court Judge Michael W. Mosman.
Adams has agreed to pay $4,859 in restitution to the Warm Springs Tribes.
Ariwite is on pre-trial release pending a three-day jury trial scheduled to begin on September 14, 2021.
Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug of the District of Oregon made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Warm Springs Police Department. It was prosecuted by Meredith Bateman and Seth Uram, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.
Military spouse pleads guilty to molesting child on two different military installationsRead the Press Release
Tacoma – A 39-year-old civilian resident of Joint Base Lewis McChord pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to abusive sexual contact with a child under 12, and sexual abuse of a child, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Shawn Matthew Wilcher faces up to life in prison when sentenced by U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle on November 15, 2021.
According to the plea agreement and other records filed in the case, Wilcher is the spouse of an active-duty enlisted Army soldier. Between October 2015 and January 2018, Wilcher resided with his spouse on Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii. Between October 1, 2018 and May 21, 2019, Wilcher and his spouse resided on Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM). Wilcher admits in his plea agreement that he sexually molested a young child left in his care during his residence at both military bases. The abuse came to light in May 2019, when the victim disclosed the abuse to a friend who reported it to a school counselor. Army Criminal Investigative Division (CID) and the FBI immediately investigated the case. Wilcher has been in custody since his arrest on May 25, 2019.
The charges in the District of Hawaii and the Western District of Washington are both resolved by this plea agreement. Under the terms of the plea agreement, the prosecutors will recommend a sentence of not more than 27 years in prison. Judge Settle is not bound by the plea agreement and is free to impose any sentence allowed by law up to life in prison. The defense and prosecution have both agreed that Wilcher will be on lifetime supervision following any prison term and will be required to register as a sex offender.
The case was investigated by the FBI and Army CID.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Grady Leupold and Matt Hampton for the Western District of Washington, and Morgan Early for the District of Hawaii.
Mexican National Who Attempted to Eat Memory Cards Containing Child Pornography Sentenced to 12 YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – David Sierra Orozco, 31, a Mexican national and recent resident of Georgia, was sentenced today to 144 months in prison for possessing child pornography. A federal jury found Orozco guilty of the charge on March 23, 2021, following a two-day trial.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, on July 25, 2017, members of the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office were observing traffic outside of Dunn city limits, when they spotted a Lexus whose registered owner had an expired license. They followed the Lexus, and after observing it twice drift across the center lane, conducted a traffic stop.
The driver identified himself as Orozco and presented a Mexican consular ID but no valid driver’s license. Officers noticed that Orozco appeared extremely nervous—he was sweating profusely despite the air conditioner on high and was shaking uncontrollably. They also noticed tool marks on the car’s instrument panel and that the cover was not flush with the dashboard. Recognizing this as signs of a possible hidden “trap” in the dashboard, officers called for a K-9 deputy. As the traffic stop proceeded, Orozco consented to a search, and the K-9 arrived and alerted to the car. Within a trap in the dashboard, officers found $111,252 in cash, wrapped in blocks within grocery bags.
While being processed into the Harnett County Jail on a charge of driving without a license, Orozco was searched. A folded up $100 bill was removed from his pocket, and as law enforcement unfolded it, several MicroSD memory cards fell out. Orozco lunged for the floor, picked up what appeared to be two memory cards, and put them in his mouth. Officers recovered one chewed half of a memory card from his mouth and three intact cards from the floor.
Law enforcement obtained a search warrant based on possible narcotics trafficking. But upon opening the first MicroSD memory card, they spotted what appeared to be child sexual abuse material, commonly referred to as child pornography. After securing a second search warrant, a full forensic review uncovered over 261 videos and 2 images of child pornography on one MicroSD memory card, another 14 videos on a second memory card, and 5 child pornography thumbnails on the defendant’s smart phone. Most files depicted children under 12 years of age.
Along with the child pornography, the forensic examiner found files linking the devices to Orozco. Two of the memory cards and the cell phone contained photographs that Orozco had taken of himself. The other card contained a photo of a car that an officer confirmed was the same make, model, and color as the Lexus that Orozco had been driving. Forensics further showed that Orozco had taken and sent one of the photos of himself using the same mobile application that had been used to collect the child pornography.
“Those who exploit children over the internet cannot hide behind their computers and phones. As this prosecution demonstrates, we will work tirelessly with both our federal and state law enforcement partners to ensure that these offenders answer for their crimes,” stated G. Norman Acker, III, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina.
“Orozco thought he could hide his crimes by swallowing a memory card, but he will find it tougher to swallow the fact that he will now be held accountable for his predatory behavior,” said Special Agent in Charge Special Agent in Charge Ronnie Martinez, who oversees Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) operations in North Carolina and South Carolina. “Protecting our most vulnerable populations from exploitation is one of our most important and impactful missions.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Acker made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Harnett County Sheriff’s Office and Department of Homeland Security conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jake D. Pugh prosecuted the case.
This case was part of the Project Safe Childhood initiative, a national program aimed at ensuring that criminals exploiting children are effectively prosecuted by making full use of all available law enforcement resources at every level. For more information about this important national project, Project Safe Childhood, go to www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:19-cr-00095-D.
Man Pleads Guilty to Two Counts of Robbery in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
A man who engaged in a series of violent crimes in Tulsa pleaded guilty today in federal court to two counts of robbery in Indian Country, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
“Deshawn Patrick, armed with a pistol, committed two violent robberies and posed a serious danger to the public. Thanks to the Tulsa Police Department, FBI, and federal prosecutors, he has been held accountable for his violent criminal behavior. Chief U.S. District Judge John Heil will sentence Patrick on Nov. 30,” said Johnson.
In his plea agreement, Deshawn Patrick, 19, of Tulsa, admitted that he pointed a firearm and used force to take a minor victim’s phone, car keys and vehicle in Tulsa. When the victim arrived at an apartment complex on Sept. 6, 2020, Deshawn Patrick exited his vehicle pointing a firearm at the teenage victim and, along with a codefendant and two juvenile accomplices, demanded the driver and passenger exit the vehicle. He and his accomplices grabbed the victim’s phone and car keys. Patrick and an accomplice then drove away in the victim’s car.
Patrick further admitted to robbing a second victim on Oct. 18, 2020. Patrick and a juvenile accomplice approached the 74 year-old victim inside the victim’s garage. Patrick and his accomplice pointed semi-automatic pistols at the victim in order to gain entry into the house. Patrick struck the elderly victim in the head with a pistol, knocking him unconscious. Patrick then entered the victim’s home and took his keys and wallet. The two defendants fled the scene in the victim’s vehicle. The victim sustained lacerations to his head during the incident.
Both robbery victims are Muscogee Nation citizens, and the crimes occurred within the Muscogee Nation Reservation.
The Tulsa Police Department and FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan H. Heatherman and Reagan V. Reininger are prosecuting the case.
Madera and Fresno Men Sentenced for Interstate Drug ShipmentsRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Patrick Maldonado, 45, of Madera, and Elias Zambrano Jr., 41, of Fresno, have been sentenced to eight years in prison and two years and three months in prison, respectively, for an interstate drug conspiracy involving shipments of marijuana to the Midwest, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Maldonado and Zambrano pleaded guilty earlier this year. According to court documents, in November 2018, Maldonado coordinated with Tan Minh Vo, 48, of San Jose, to send two shipments of marijuana to Halen Frazier, 34, of Kingsville, Missouri. The first shipment was seized from Frazier during a traffic stop after Tien Van Phan, 56, of Milpitas, delivered 92 pounds of marijuana to Frazier in two suitcases at a hotel in Kansas City.
Later, agents intercepted calls between Maldonado, Zambrano, and Frazier in which they discussed the shipment of 384 pounds of marijuana to Frazier in Kansas City. Maldonado and Zambrano had packed the load in a hidden compartment of a trailer of a truck driven by David McGowan, 61, of Kansas City. Arizona State Troopers discovered the marijuana and $1,629 in cash after a traffic stop.
Following the seizure of marijuana in Arizona, agents executed a search warrant at Maldonado’s and Zambrano’s residences. At Maldonado’s residence, agents found more than 3 kilograms of cocaine, 20 pounds of marijuana, a handgun, and $45,281 in cash. At Zambrano’s residence, agents found more marijuana, an electronic money counter, an unregistered pistol, and a so‑called “ghost gun.” U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd has ordered the forfeiture of the cash and firearms.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Central Valley High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force consisting of agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tulare, Kings, and Fresno County Sheriff’s Offices, the Fresno Police Department, the Arizona Department of Health, and the Kansas City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar is prosecuting the case.
Phan and Frazier, who also pleaded guilty, were previously sentenced to three and one half years and two years and three months in prison, respectively. Charges are pending against McGowan and Vo, who are scheduled for a status conference on Nov. 10, 2021. As to these defendants, the charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Illinois Jury Convicts Iowa Men of Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
ROCK ISLAND, Ill. – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict on August 19, 2021, against Michael James Grommet, 36, of Marshalltown, Iowa, and Buddy Hal Gunter, 45, of Waterloo, Iowa, for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute at least 50 grams of actual methamphetamine. Sentencing for Grommet and Gunter has been scheduled on December 21, 2021, at the U.S. Courthouse in Davenport, Iowa.
During four days of trial, beginning on August 16, the government presented evidence establishing that in February 2019 Grommet and Gunter conspired with one another and others to distribute methamphetamine in both Iowa and Illinois. The case began when the Rock Island Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration seized approximately 100 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine from the defendants' coconspirators at Jumer's Casino in Rock Island, Illinois. Agents worked up the chain of distribution to identify the sources of the methamphetamine as Grommet and Gunter.
Grommet and Gunter remain in the custody of the United States Marshal’s Service. At sentencing, Grommet faces statutory penalties of ten years to life imprisonment. Gunter faces statutory penalties of fifteen years to life imprisonment.
“Cheap and readily accessible methamphetamine continues to be a major public health problem plaguing our community,” said Acting United States Attorney Doug Quivey. “The United States Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with our law enforcement partners, will continue to target and prosecute high-level drug dealers responsible for bringing it into our area.”
The case investigation was conducted by the Rock Island Police Department, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alyssa Raya and Jennifer Mathew represented the government at trial.
Honduran Man Sentenced for Illegal Use of a Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that EVER JIMINEZ-MENDOZA, age 33, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced on August 17, 2021 before United States District Court Judge Wendy Vitter, after previously pleading guilty to a one-count indictment for illegal use of a Social Security number in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
Judge Vitter sentenced JIMINEZ-MENDOZA to time served and was ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment of $100.
According to court documents, on or about October 20, 2017, JIMINEZ-MENDOZA, presented a false social security number when attending a pre-employment safety class at the Gulf Coast Safety Council in St. Rose, Louisiana. JIMINEZ-MENDOZA falsely represented that a social security number was assigned to him when in fact, the social security number has been assigned by the Commissioner of Social Security to another individual.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Grayson County Pastor Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography ViolationsRead the Press Release
SHERMAN, Texas – A Denison man has been sentenced to federal prison for sexual crimes against children in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei today.
David Alan Pettigrew, 49, pleaded guilty on April 7, 2021 to sexual exploitation of children; conspiracy and attempt and was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Amos L. Mazzant.
“David Pettigrew is a predator who used his position to exploit children for his own gratification,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. “Parents and kids in Grayson County trusted Pettigrew as an educator, pastor, and friend, all the while unaware of his criminal intent. Working with children is nothing short of a privilege, and EDTX is committed to ensuring that those who assume responsibility for children do not violate that position of trust.”
“The deviant behavior of any individual that occupies a position or role of public trust, especially one that betrays that trust, is unforgivable and repulsive. The actions and the emotional trauma Pettigrew caused to the innocent children he preyed upon is devastating and life-altering,” said Ryan L. Spradlin, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Dallas. “Protecting those most vulnerable is a top priority for HSI and we will never relent in our pursuit of characters like Pettigrew who breach their positions of trust to exploit minors.”
According to information presented in court, Pettigrew came to the attention of law enforcement through referrals sent by two electronic service providers and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which indicated that a user had uploaded files of suspected child pornography. Investigators traced the leads to Pettigrew’s home in Denison and the Denison Church of the Nazarene. Members of HSI and the Grayson County Sheriff's Office served search warrants at both locations on August 6, 2020, at which time Pettigrew was arrested for transporting child pornography.
As the investigation progressed, investigators discovered that Pettigrew and co-defendant Chad Michael Rider had set up hidden cameras in various locations in order to capture children in various stages of undress. On August 19, 2020, a grand jury returned an indictment charging Pettigrew with transportation of child pornography and both Pettigrew and Rider with conspiring to and attempting to sexually exploit children (a/k/a production of child pornography).
As part of his plea, Pettigrew admitted to conspiring with Rider to record minors, including while the minors were nude, at locations in Collin and Grayson counties. The videos were filmed using various hidden cameras, including cameras disguised as hooks, clocks, a picture frame, a smoke detector, an AC wall adapter, charging blocks, and a pen. Pettigrew further admitted that he secretly filmed a child in his home and that he and Rider filmed children undressing, bathing, and toweling off at the Denison Church of the Nazarene in Grayson County. The children were all approximately 11 to 14-years old at the time they were unknowingly recorded.
The case against Rider is ongoing and remains pending.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Grayson County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Miller.
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Gloucester County Man Charged with Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Gloucester County, New Jersey, man was charged with possessing images of child sexual abuse, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced today.
Joseph Cooper, 75, of Williamstown, New Jersey, is charged by criminal complaint with one count of possession of child pornography. Cooper is expected to appear by videoconference this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sharon A. King in Camden federal court.
According to documents filed in this case:
In October 2020, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Cooper’s residence. Computers in Cooper’s residence contained more than 50 videos and 200 images of child sexual abuse, including depictions of prepubescent children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The computers also contained logs documenting Cooper’s participation in internet chatrooms relating to sexual interest in children.
In a prior federal prosecution in New Jersey in 1999, Cooper was convicted of interstate transportation of child pornography via the internet. In 2011, Cooper was convicted in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Burlington County, of cruelty and neglect of a child. The 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.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jason J. Molina, with the investigation leading to today’s charge.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel A. Friedman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Camden.
The charge and allegations in the complaint are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Georgia man sentenced for his role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Joel Jimenez, of Cartersville, Georgia, was sentenced today to 65 months of incarceration for his role in a drug distribution operation, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Jimenez, also known as “Carlos,” 41, pleaded guilty in November 2019 to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute and Distribute Controlled Substances.” Jimenez admitted to working with others to distribute
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Three Rivers Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force; the West Virginia State Police; The Bartow County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office; the FBI in Rome, Georgia; and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Related cases here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/georgia-man-found-guilty-drug-distribution-resulting-death-0
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/georgia-man-sentenced-four-life-sentences-plus-10-years-drug-distribution-resulting
Fort Dodge Man Sentenced to 21 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Fort Dodge man was sentenced August 19, 2021, to more than 21 years in federal prison. Terrance Foy, age 34, from Fort Dodge received the prison term after a March 19, 2021, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm during and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
In a plea agreement, Foy admitted to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine between 2017 and 2019. Foy also admitted that on January 5, 2019, he placed a Ruger LC9 firearm on or near an acquaintance’s dresser along with 26.73 grams of actual pure methamphetamine. Foy has an extensive criminal history, including: four convictions for domestic abuse; four convictions for criminal mischief; two convictions for assault causing bodily injury; two theft convictions; and convictions for possession with intent to deliver controlled substances, possession of methamphetamine, assault with a dangerous weapon, assault, violation of a no contact order, attempted burglary, interference with official acts, and interference with official acts causing bodily injury.
Foy was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Foy was sentenced to 262 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 4-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Foy is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Mikala Purdy-Steenholdt, Shawn Wehde, and Ron Timmons. The case was investigated by the Fort Dodge Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-3032.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Fort Dodge Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
A man who illegally possessed a firearm pled guilty August 19, 2021, in federal court in Sioux City.
William Howard Rockey Halstead, 34, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, was convicted of prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
At the plea hearing, Halstead admitted that he had been previously convicted of possession of a firearm by a felon, in the Iowa District Court for Webster County, on or about May 15, 2017. Reports show that, on September 2, 2020, Halstead was stopped by law enforcement for having an inoperable break light. During the stop, law enforcement observed multiple items resembling marijuana in plain view within the car. Halstead was asked to step out of the car at which time he locked his glovebox and exited the car. A subsequent search of Halstead uncovered a digital scale in his pocket. A search of the car revealed numerous pieces of marijuana on the seat, floorboard, and center console of the vehicle. Law enforcement then asked Halstead for the keys to unlock the glovebox. Halstead at first claimed the keys were in the car, but in fact Halstead had the keys in his hand. Law enforcement then opened the glovebox and found a loaded Hi-Point JCP 40 Smith and Wesson handgun. Upon arrest, Halstead admitted he also had a small bag of methamphetamine in his sock.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand has been set for time, date, and place. Halstead remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Halstead faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mikala Purdy-Steenholdt and Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Fort Dodge Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-3040. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Former correctional employee sentenced for sexual contact with inmateRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Heather D. Obrad, a former correctional employee at Federal Corrections Institution Hazelton, was sentenced today to three years of probation for having inappropriate contact with an inmate, Acting United States Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Obrad, of Granville, West Virginia, pleaded guilty in March 2021 to one count of “Abusive Sexual Contact.” Obrad, 27, a secretary at FCI Hazelton, admitted to having sexual contact with an inmate at the facility from August to October 2020.
Obrad was also ordered to pay a fine of $5,500.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Office of Inspector General investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Former Nurse Sentenced for Sending Biohazardous Material Through the MailRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On August 23, 2021, Della Marie Gibson, 37, pleaded guilty before United States Magistrate Judge H. Bruce Guyton to two counts of sending biohazardous materials through the United States mail. After receiving her guilty pleas, the Court imposed a two-year sentence of probation.
According to documents filed with the Court, on or about April 5, 2021, Gibson mailed and had delivered, using the United States Postal Service (USPS), a package containing feces to her husband’s ex-wife. On or about April 9, 2021, Gibson obtained human blood from a patient during her regular duties as a registered nurse and placed the patient’s blood on a feminine napkin, which Gibson then mailed to the same victim using the USPS.
While on probation, Gibson will be supervised by the United States Probation Office and must undergo mental health treatment, anger management treatment, and have no contact with the victim or her minor children. In addition, Gibson is prohibited from obtaining or seeking a position in the healthcare field involving direct contact with patients.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to prosecuting those who use the United States Postal Service to threaten or intimidate individuals or to jeopardize the safety of federal employees,” said Acting United States Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III.
“The egregious acts done by this defendant in mailing the biohazardous materials could have caused potential harm to the intended recipient, our postal employees and facilities,” said Tommy D. Coke, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division. “Postal Inspectors are committed to defending the nation’s mail system and providing a safe environment for Postal Service employees and customers. We are grateful for the assistance from our law enforcement partners and the swift action taken by the U.S. Attorney’s Office to obtain a conviction and sentencing for this investigation.”
The criminal indictment was the result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspector and the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Kolman represented the United States.
Former FIFA Official Pleads Guilty to Racketeering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Reynaldo Vasquez, the former president of the El Salvadorean soccer federation (the “Federation”), pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy in connection with his participation in schemes to accept hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes and kickbacks. Part of the money Vasquez received was wired through a U.S. bank account. Vasquez also agreed to forfeit $360,000 and multiple bank accounts. When sentenced, Vasquez faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Today’s plea proceeding took place via videoconference before United States District Judge Pamela K. Chen.
Jacquelyn M. Kasulis, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Michael J. Driscoll, Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Ryan L. Korner, Special Agent-in-Charge, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles (IRS-CI), announced the guilty plea.
“With today’s guilty plea, Vasquez admits to engaging in a decades-long racketeering conspiracy to accept hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes and kickbacks that corrupted the game of soccer,” stated Acting United States Attorney Kasulis. “Together with our law enforcement partners, this Office is committed to rooting out fraud and corruption in international soccer and to protecting the integrity of the U.S. financial system.”
“From the beginning of this intense and sprawling investigation, our goal has been to root out corrupt officials who thought no one noticed their illegal activities,” stated FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Driscoll. “Mr. Vasquez didn’t achieve his dream of wealth and power, and now he faces the possibility of many years in federal prison. Today's plea should demonstrate to others who attempt to corrupt international soccer - we play to win.”
“Today’s guilty plea is the culmination of years of investigative work by IRS-CI Agents and their law enforcement partners,” stated IRS-CI Special Agent-in-Charge Korner. “Over a period of many years, Reynaldo Vasquez corrupted the business of international soccer by requesting hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes and kickbacks. IRS CI is committed to ending these practices and bringing corrupt officials to justice.”
According to court filings and facts presented during the plea proceeding, Vasquez and his co-conspirators participated in and corrupted an enterprise comprising soccer organizing bodies and sports marketing companies. As part of his association with that enterprise, Vasquez and others solicited and received bribes and kickbacks in exchange for awarding lucrative media and marketing contracts. In 2012, Vasquez, together with other current and former officials of the federation, received approximately $350,000 in bribes in connection with the sale of media and marketing rights to El Salvador World Cup qualifying matches to be played in advance of the 2018 World Cup. This bribe payment was wired from a sports marketing company’s bank account in the United States. Vasquez ultimately received a portion of his bribe money through a wire transfer sent through the United States. In 2014 and 2015, Vasquez and others agreed to receive tens of thousands of dollars in bribes in connection with the participation of the Salvadorean national team in friendly matches to be played in the United States. Vasquez was extradited from El Salvador to the United States on January 29, 2021.
The guilty plea announced today is part of a long-running investigation into corruption in international soccer led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, the FBI New York Field Office, and the IRS-CI Los Angeles Field Office. To date, the prosecution has resulted in 27 individual guilty pleas, 4 corporate guilty pleas, and 2 convictions at trial, among other resolutions. The prosecutors in Brooklyn have received considerable assistance from attorneys in various parts of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division in Washington, D.C., including the Office of International Affairs, the Organized Crime and Gang Section, the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, and the Fraud Section, as well as from INTERPOL Washington.Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samuel P. Nitze, Keith D. Edelman, Kaitlin T. Farrell, Patrick T. Hein, Victor Zapana and Brian D. Morris of the Eastern District of New York are in charge of the prosecution.
Defendant:
REYNALDO VASQUEZ
Age: 65
El SalvadorE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 15-CR-252 (S-3) (PKC)
Former CFO Sentenced to Prison for Embezzling More Than $900,000 from EmployerRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – An Apple Valley man was sentenced today to 27 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for defrauding his employer out of more than $930,000.
According to court documents, in February 2014, Gregg William Johnson, 59, was hired as the Chief Financial Officer for a Minnesota-based manufacturing company. As part of his job duties, Johnson was responsible for overseeing and tracking all cash flow for the company and had signatory authority on the company’s bank accounts. Between 2014 and July 2020, Johnson stole approximately $930,000 in company funds by issuing checks from the company’s bank accounts to cover personal expenses such as credit card payments, mortgage payments, and college tuition for his children. To conceal his theft, Johnson added false entries into the company’s accounting software to make the cashflow appear balanced.
On March 4, 2021, Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
Acting U.S. Attorney W. Anders Folk for the District of Minnesota made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Donovan W. Frank sentenced the defendant.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the Apple Valley Police Department.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allison K. Ethen and Kimberly A. Svendsen.
Florida Man Sentenced to 155 Days in Jail on Destruction of Property, Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Henry “Enrique” Tarrio, 37, of Miami, Fla., was sentenced today to a total of 155 days of incarceration on charges stemming from two cases, including one involving the burning of a Black Lives Matter banner stolen from a historically prominent Black church in downtown Washington, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Channing D. Phillips and Robert J. Contee III, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Tarrio pleaded guilty on July 19, 2021, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, to one count of destruction of property and one count of attempted possession of a large-capacity ammunition feeding device. The Honorable Harold L. Cushenberry, Jr. sentenced Tarrio to 90 days of jail on the destruction of property charge and 150 days in jail on the ammunition offense; the judge suspended all but 155 days of that time on the condition that Tarrio successfully complete three years of probation. Tarrio also must pay $1,000 in fines, as well as $347 in restitution to the church. Tarrio is to begin serving his sentence in two weeks.
According to a proffer of facts submitted at the plea hearing, on the evening of Dec. 12, 2020, a group of individuals affiliated with the “Proud Boys,” including Tarrio, were in the area of 11th and K Streets NW, near the location of Asbury United Methodist Church. Unidentified members of the group stole the banner from the church’s property. The banner had lettering that read “#BLACKLIVESMATTER.” The banner also contained the Church’s logo and website address.
The group then walked southbound on 11th Street NW and took the banner to the intersection of 11th and E Streets NW. At the intersection, the group burned the banner, using lighter fluid and lighters. Numerous unidentified individuals crouched down and applied lighters to the edges of the banner. Tarrio posted a picture to his “Parler” social media account depicting himself holding an unlit lighter, inches from the ignited lighters in two other individuals’ hands.
In the days that followed, Tarrio admitted to burning the banner on social media and in comments to numerous media outlets.
Tarrio returned to the District of Columbia from Florida on Jan. 4, 2021, and he was arrested on a warrant charging him with the Dec. 12, 2020, destruction of property offense. In a search of his book bag, conducted at the time of his arrest, police recovered two high-capacity firearm magazines. Each magazine bars the insignia of the “Proud Boys.” In an interview with police, Tarrio told detectives that he had intended to transfer the magazines to a customer who was also going to be present in the District of Columbia.
In announcing the sentence, Acting U.S. Attorney Philips and Chief Contee commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department, as well as those who are prosecuting the matter from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Federal Inmate Pleads Guilty to Possessing WeaponRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Rondale Faulkner, a federal inmate at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) at McDowell, pleaded guilty today to possessing a handcrafted weapon, commonly known as a “shank.”
According to court documents, FCI McDowell staff members found Faulkner in possession of a shank on September 26, 2020. The shank was a piece of metal approximately six inches long that was sharpened to a point on one end and had thread tied around clothe on the other end to form a handle. As part of his plea, Faulkner admitted that the shank was designed and intended to be used as a weapon.
Faulkner faces up to five years in prison when he is sentenced on November 29, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecution.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing.
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. 1:21-cr-00110.
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Federal Grand Jury B Indictments Announced- AugustRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the August 2021 Federal Grand Jury B. The grand jury met the week of Aug. 16.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Jacquelyn Ellaine Blossom. Child Abuse in Indian Country. Blossom, 41, of Oaks, allegedly abused the minor victim by attempting to drown the child in a creek on April 10, 2021. The FBI is the investigative agency. 21-CR-352
Cody Buzzard. First Degree Murder in Indian Country; Assault with Intent to Commit Murder in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Buzzard, 27, of Jay, is charged with the first degree murder of Jerry Tapp. He and others allegedly aided and abetted one another when they shot and killed Mr. Tapp on Aug. 1, 2019. In count 2, Buzzard, along with others, allegedly shot a second victim during the same incident. Finally, the defendant is charged with brandishing and discharging a firearm during and relation to a crime of violence. The FBI; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and Delaware County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-351
Pamela Kathryn Conley. Bank Fraud (Counts 1-24); Aggravated Identity Theft (Counts 25-28) (2nd superseding). Conley, 59, of Catoosa, is charged with defrauding ten Oklahoma banks when she falsified and submitted documents to apply to apply for approximately $1 million in loans. Of that, Conley was able to secure more than $800,000. From September 2016 to the date of the second superseding indictment, Conley allegedly executed a scheme to enrich herself by knowingly submitting loan applications containing false income and employment information at ten banks and credit unions. According to the indictment, Conley forged earning statements which she provided to the financial institutions as proof of income. Conley falsified the statements to reflect that she held positions such as manager and chief financial officer, earning a salary of more than $100,000 annually or approximately $10,000 or more a month.
The indictment alleges that on occasion, when loans were secured with collateral, Conley created fictitious lien releases for the collateral, using the notarized signature of unwitting financial institution employees. Conley then caused the bogus lien releases to be filed with the Oklahoma Tax Commission, which in turn provided Conley with titles to the collateral, free and clear of any liens. Conley would then approach new lenders to obtain loans secured by collateral she did not own free and clear. IRS-Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Secret Service are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-64
William Colby Cox; Laura Kay Sawyer. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition (counts 1 and 2); Drug Conspiracy (count 3); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 4); Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime (Count 5); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Count 6). Cox, 37, and Sawyer, 33, both of Tulsa, are each charged with being felons in possession of a FEG 9mm pistol, a Rohm GMBH .25 caliber pistol; an Intratec 9mm pistol; a Rohm GMBH .22 caliber revolver; a Lorcin .380 caliber pistol; a Taurus Inc. .22 caliber pistol, and more than 85 rounds of ammunition. Cox and Sawyer are further charged with drug conspiracy and with knowingly possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The two are also charged with possessing the firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking crime. Finally, the duo is charged with maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine. Cox and Sawyer are alleged to be involved with the Irish Mob. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs are the investigative agencies. 21-CR 356
Dreko Donaldson. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Donaldson, 22, is charged with being a felon in possession of a Springfield Armory 9mm pistol and 50 rounds of ammunition. The Tulsa Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-357
Robert P. Garcia. Felon in Possession of a Firearm; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises. Garcia, 39, of Tulsa, is charged with being a felon in possession of a Smith &Wesson 9 mm pistol. He is further charged with possessing with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine. He is further charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes and with maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine and cocaine. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Broken Arrow Police Department is the investigative agency. 21-CR-358
Andre Kevin Harris. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country (Counts 1,3); Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (Counts 2,4); Felon in Possession of a Firearm (Count 5). In count one, Harris, 49, of Claremore, allegedly assaulted the victim on June 26, 2021, by shooting at her multiple times, striking her in the leg. He is further charged in count two with brandishing and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence for the assault on the first victim. As law enforcement responded to the scene, Harris shot at a responding Rogers County Sheriff’s Office Deputy, as alleged in count 3. Harris is further charged in count 4 with brandishing and discharging his firearm during a crime of violence for the assault on the responding deputy. Finally, he is charged with being a felon in possession of a Ruger 9 mm pistol. The FBI and Rogers Country Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-359
Britney Kay Hays. Financial Institution Fraud (1-4); Mail Fraud (Count 5); False Statements (Counts 6-10); Aggravated Identity Theft (Count 15). Hays, 28, of Tulsa, allegedly carried out a scheme to enrich herself. She fraudulently opened various accounts with another individual’s personal identifying information, such as date of birth, social security number and address, to conduct financial transactions on the internet or to make in-person purchases using debit or credit cards issued for the opened accounts. Hays further forged checks addressed to herself for deposit at various financial institutions or unlawfully paid to others on her behalf. Hays used the fraudulently opened accounts to conduct a series of purchases and transactions which caused an aggregate loss in the approximate total amount of at least $11,024.03. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is the investigative agency. 21-CR-360
Clifton Jackson. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Witness Tampering; Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding (Misdemeanor). On July 28, 2021, Jackson, 48, of Tulsa, allegedly assaulted the victim by striking and beating her. He then allegedly struck the victim with gun then pointed it at her, warning the victim not to tell the police. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-372
Merle Jason Lancaster. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Kidnapping in Indian Country; Robbery in Indian Country. Lancaster, 42, allegedly struck the victim with a baseball bat and forced the victim to drive his vehicle to an ATM and withdraw money from his account. Lancaster took the money, forced the victim out of the car, then drove off with the victim’s Toyota Prius. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-373
Dwight Vernon Leleux. Carjacking; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Obstruction of Justice by Threatening Physical Force Against a Witness; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Witness Tampering. Leleux, 20, of Tulsa, is alleged to have brandished a firearm and unlawfully attempted to take a Honda CR-V by force on March 5, 2021. Leleux and defendant Waylon Goss allegedly pulled the victim from his vehicle and began beating him, including striking him with a firearm. The victim was able to get back into the vehicle and drive away. Leleux allegedly discharged his firearm at the vehicle as the victim drove away. Leleux is further charged with tampering with a witness in the case. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-183
Cameron Kelly McAbee. Child Exploitation Enterprise; Sexual Exploitation of a Child by a Parent; Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. From July 19, 2019, to July 26, 2021, McAbee, 31, of Broken Arrow, allegedly engaged in a child exploitation enterprise when he was involved in three or more incidents of child exploitation crimes that involved more than one victim. The defendant committed the crimes in concert with three or more others. As part of his enterprise, McAbee knowingly permitted a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child sexual abuse material, also known as child pornography. He is further alleged to have distributed and received child pornography via electronic means, as well as to have possessed, accessed and viewed the child pornography. The visual depictions involved at least one minor who was 12 years of age or younger. The FBI is the investigative agency. 21-CR-361
Vernon Jenedia Neel. Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force and Threat in Indian Country; Assault with Intent to Commit Aggravated Sexual Abuse in Indian Country. Neel, 42, is alleged to have held a victim down, choked her, then struck her in the face as he attempted to sexually assault her on July 3, 2021. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-362
Michael Lamont Phillips. Possession of Cocaine Base with Intent to Distribute; Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition (superseding). Phillips, 40, of Muskogee, is charged with knowingly possessing with intent to distribute cocaine base. He is further charged with being a felon in possession of a Forjas Taurus 9mm Luger caliber semi-automatic pistol. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-363
Johnathan Ross Robins. Distribution and Receipt of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. From June 1, 2003, to March 8, 2021, Robins, 52, of Sand Springs, allegedly distributed and received child sexual abuse material, also known as child pornography. He further allegedly possessed, accessed and viewed the child sexual abuse material from June 1, 2003, to March 4, 2021. The material involved at least one minor who was younger than 12-years-old. 21-CR-364
Adam Ray Schach. Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country. Schach, 35, of Tulsa, is charged with assaulting an intimate partner by strangling and attempting to strangle the victim. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-365
Ricky Larson Shannon. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition (Counts 1- 2). Shannon, 34, of Tulsa, is charged with being a felon in possession of a Glock 30 caliber pistol on June 11, 2021, and on Aug. 13, 2021. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-366
Adam Douglas Sherwood. Drug Conspiracy (Count 1); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 2); Unlawful Use of a Communication Facility (Counts 3-13); Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crimes (Count 14) (2nd superseding indictment). From January 2018 to January 2021, Sherwood, 43, of Wyandotte, co-conspirator 1, and others allegedly conspired to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. On May 23, 2020, Sherwood and co-conspirator 1 aided and abetted each other to knowingly possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Sherwood further used a cell phone to send or receive at least 13 texts communicating about the distribution of the drug. Sherwood and co-conspirator 1 possessed a Lorcin Engineering Company .380 ACP caliber single action pistol and a Sturm, Ruger & Co. .22 MWR caliber double-action revolver. Additionally, Sherwood is alleged to have distributed methamphetamine to a number of drug dealers and drug users across Northeast Oklahoma for a period of over least two years dating back to early 2018. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration, and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. 20-CR-307.
Kenneth Dale Walker. Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. Walker, 54, of Collinsville, is charged with assaulting the victim by strangling her and punching her in the head, which caused a concussion, on July 14, 2021. The FBI and Collinsville Police Department are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-374
Elisha Ethan Watashe. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country. Watashe, 44, of Tulsa, is charged with assaulting the victim by stabbing the victim with a knife. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-375
Shawn Duschenne Wilde. Kidnapping in Indian Country; Assault with Intent to Commit Murder in Indian Country; Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling in Indian Country. Wilde, 38, of Sapulpa, is charged with kidnapping the victim by forcing her into a vehicle and driving her to another location on May 14, 2021. From May 14 through May 15, 2021, he also allegedly assaulted the victim by threatening to kill her then strangled her repeatedly until she lost consciousness. During the assault, he told the victim she was going to die. Finally, Wilde is charged with assaulting the victim, an intimate partner, by strangling her to the point she passed out. The FBI and Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse Police Department are the investigative agencies. 21-CR-367
Federal Defendant Sentenced to 15 Years for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 15 years in jail and 12 years of supervised release on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Kenneth Wayne Spencer, Jr., 39.
According to information presented to the court, Spencer received and possessed computer images and movies depicting prepubescent minors, as young as infants, being sexually assaulted. During the FBI’s investigation, Spencer admitted that he had previously sexually abused two children, ages three and four. Spencer also attempted to hide his online receipt of child sexual abuse material by using another individual’s Internet connection. Spencer was previously convicted of a child exploitation offense in Pennsylvania.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Spencer.
Drug Courier with 32 Pounds of Methamphetamine SentencedRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Alejandro Lopez, 51, of Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced today to seven and a half years in prison for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, Lopez was stopped for a traffic violation in Merced County as he was driving northbound on Highway 99. Following the stop, law enforcement officers discovered approximately 32 pounds of methamphetamine in a spare tire of the vehicle that Lopez had been driving. Lopez pleaded guilty on Oct. 6, 2020.
This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen A. Escobar prosecuted the case.
Detroit Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit, Michigan man was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison today for drug and gun crimes. Darryl Eric Hill, 37, previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, Hill rented a room at the Double Tree Hotel in Huntington on October 21, 2020 and was present when law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the room. Officers seized heroin, methamphetamine, crack cocaine, over $19,000 and a loaded 9mm pistol which Hill possessed. Hill admitted that he had stayed at the hotel for several weeks and that he had been selling the drugs in and around the Huntington area. Hill also admitted that he kept the firearm with him to protect himself based on his status as a drug dealer.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Huntington Police Department.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program, 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.
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. 3:21-cr-00072.
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Defendant Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation Offenses Involving a Ten-Year-Old VictimRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A former resident of Erie, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Ryan Matthew Holden, 36, pleaded guilty to seven counts before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Holden used Instagram to induce a ten-year-old female to provide him sexually explicit images and sent images of his penis to the minor victim. Holden also sent images of child sexual abuse material to the minor victim to encourage her to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Holden also received and possessed thousands of other items of child sexual abuse material.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for December 13, 2021. The law provides for a total sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of $1,750,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Holden.
Dallas County Man Sentenced for Attempting to Meet Minor for SexRead the Press Release
PLANO, Texas – An Irving man has been sentenced to federal prison for child exploitation violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei today.
Cody Ryan Turner was convicted by a jury on March 10, 2021, of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor and was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Sean D. Jordan.
“This case is a sober reminder that there are those out there lurking in cyberspace who target children to engage in sexually explicit chat conversations, seeking to eventually meet and sexually abuse these kids,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. “Parents and teens need to approach online ‘friends’ critically and with caution. The enticement of minors is not just something we see on television.”
“Thank you to our partners at the Plano Police Department for helping us stop an individual who attempted to entice a child. This case reminds all of us to remain vigilant about our children’s online behavior and social media presence,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew DeSarno. “We encourage parents to speak with their children about the dangers of online predators who use popular apps, games, and websites and to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.”
According to information presented in court, in August 2019, Turner began messaging an individual he believed to be a young teen on a popular social media application. After receiving no response throughout August 2019, he sent a graphic image to the child in December 2019 then messaged the child again in June 2020, asking if she was interested in a sugar daddy-sugar baby relationship. At that point, the individual Turner believed to be a teen responded, and identified herself as a child. Between June 2020 and Sep. 8, 2020, Turner sent a series of sexually explicit messages to this individual, asking about the child’s body and development, discussing the child’s parents and ways to circumvent their supervision of the child’s online activities, and meeting for sex.
On Sep. 8, 2020, believing that the child was attending school online because of COVID, Turner messaged asking “want company”? After stating his intention to drive to the child’s residence, Turner asked for verification of the child’s identity, noting “you are very young so there is big risk for me.” Evidence introduced at trial showed that Turner drove from Irving to a location in Plano to meet the child, at which time he was arrested by a joint team of FBI and the Plano Police Department.
Turner admitted to texting with the teen but claimed that he believed the person to be “fake” and had driven to the meet site to call “Gotcha!” on the individual. Turner further stated that he could not explain his actions.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Plano Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Miller.
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Collin County Man Sentenced for Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PLANO, Texas – A Plano man has been sentenced to federal prison for child pornography violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei today.
Edgar Raymond Miller, 38, pleaded guilty on Feb. 5, 2021 to two counts of distribution of child pornography and was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Sean D. Jordan.
“The incredible work of our federal and local law enforcement partners revealed a man focused on the violent sexual abuse of children living in our midst,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. “Law enforcement relies on tips from the public to help them identify and disrupt those engaged in the traffic of child pornography. I urge members of the public to report any interactions on social media applications that they find concerning or suspicious. Ultimately, your tip could prevent a child from being abused or exploited.”
“The FBI and our partners in the North Texas Child Exploitation Task Force work tirelessly to apprehend individuals who distribute or attempt to distribute child pornography. This collaboration resulted in an arrest and a positive outcome with today’s sentencing,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew DeSarno. “We will continue to prioritize the safety of children in the communities we serve.”
According to information presented in court, in April 2020, a detective with the Plano Police Department received an investigative lead pertaining to a user on an Internet-based chat application who was uploading child pornography. The user was traced to the residence in Plano where Edgar Miller lived. In June 2020, the Plano PD, FBI, and an investigator with the Collin County District Attorney’s Office served a search warrant at Miller’s residence, where they seized numerous digital devices containing child pornography. Forensic analysis revealed that Miller had collected more than 47,000 images and videos of child pornography across multiple social media platforms. Evidence also revealed chats in which Miller discussed the graphic and extreme abuse of children. A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Miller with child pornography violations on July 8, 2020.
As part of his plea, Miller admitted to communicating with other individuals on the instant messaging mobile application about child pornography and the sexual abuse of children. Miller distributed images depicting male children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The children depicted were prepubescent (or under the age of 12 years old) and some of the images included depictions of sadistic or masochistic abuse. Miller admitted that he distributed and possessed more than 600 images of child pornography. He further admitted to distributing child pornography to others on the application in exchange for child pornography from them.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Plano Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Collin County District Attorney’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Miller.
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Cocaine Supplier Pleads Guilty and is Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison for Participating in Conspiracy to Sell Cocaine and Crack Cocaine in MarylandRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced Kevin Purnell Johnson, age 36, of Elkton, Maryland, to eight years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, after Johnson pleaded guilty to the federal charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
The guilty plea and sentence were announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Jonathan F. Lenzner; Special Agent in Charge James R. Mancuso of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Baltimore; Superintendent Colonel Woodrow W. Jones III of the Maryland State Police; and Cecil County Sheriff Scott Adams.
According to his guilty plea, the Maryland State Police, Cecil County Sheriff’s Office, and the Department of Homeland Security identified Troy Neal, Mark Williams, and Johnson as cocaine suppliers after an extended investigation dating back to 2019. The conspiracy members distributed crack cocaine to multiple customers in Elkton, Maryland.
During the investigation, the Cecil County Circuit Court issued an order to authorize the interception of wire and electronic communications of Johnson and his co-conspirators. Intercepted text and telephone communications revealed Johnson as a member of the drug distribution conspiracy.
Law enforcement captured at least eight instances in which Johnson and his co-conspirators conversed in coded conversations about drug activity. For example, on May 5, 2020, Johnson discussed the purchase of a half-kilogram of cocaine for $17,000 to $17,500. Within the conversation, Johnson told the individual that he wanted it “soft”, which investigators knew to be powder cocaine.
On May 18, 2020, police surveilled Johnson meet with an individual in the parking lot of a local hotel. Patrol officers conducted a traffic stop on the customer’s car shortly after the transaction and recovered 29.3 grams of crack cocaine and $1,500 in cash.
As stated in his plea agreement, on June 13, 2020 law enforcement covertly observed Neal, Williams, and Johnson depart from Neal’s residence and travel to the Bronx in New York, where investigators believe that Neal, Williams, and Johnson obtained cocaine. The next day, on June 14, 2020, law enforcement observed the three men travel back to Neal’s residence. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at Neal’s residence and recovered 497 grams of compressed suspected cocaine, several bags of suspected marijuana, a digital scale, and several cell phones.
Other evidence corroborates Johnson’s involvement in drug trafficking. According to the IRS, Johnson did not file tax returns in 2017, 2018, or 2019 and had no taxable income.
Co-conspirators Mark Williams and Troy Lee Neal pled guilty to the same charges and are scheduled to be sentenced on October 5, 2021 at 11 a.m. and October 26, 2021 at 11 a.m.; respectively.
Acting United States Attorney Jonathan F. Lenzner commended HSI, the Maryland State Police, and the Cecil County Sheriff’s Office for their work in the investigation. Mr. Lenzner thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sandra Wilkinson and Kim Y. Oldham, who prosecuted the case.
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Citizen of Mexico Pleads Guilty to Being in United States IllegallyRead the Press Release
A man who was in the United States illegally pled guilty August 18, 2021, in federal court in Sioux City.
Gabriel Grima-Sanchez, 47, a citizen of Mexico, was convicted of illegally reentry.
At the plea hearing, Grima-Sanchez admitted that on June 23, 2021, he was stopped by Harrison County Iowa Sheriff’s officers for a traffic violation when it was discovered Grima-Sanchez had a federal arrest warrant for illegal reentry into the United States. Evidence showed that on March 28, 2016, Grima-Sanchez, an alien citizen of Mexico, was found knowingly and unlawfully in the United States after having been previously removed from the United States to Mexico on or about May 11, 2005.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Grima-Sanchez remains free on bond previously set. Grima-Sanchez faces a possible maximum sentence of 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to one year of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 16-4044. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Chicago Area Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Advertise and Distribute Child PornographyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — Eric Leslie, 38, of Park Ridge, Illinois, was sentenced today to 15 years in prison, to be followed by 17.5 years of supervised release, for his role in the advertising and distribution of child pornography through a website, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
On Jan. 21, 2020, Leslie pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to advertise child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. As part of the sentence, U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd ordered Leslie to pay $3,000 in restitution to one victim.
According to court documents, from approximately October 2017 through December 2018, Leslie agreed with one or more persons to advertise child pornography and then also actually distributed to a website images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. When law enforcement officers served a search warrant at his residence in Illinois in January 2019, they recovered more than 600 images of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct some of which involved violence.
This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) offices in Fresno, California, Chicago, Illinois, and The Hague, Netherlands. Assistant U.S. Attorney David L. Gappa prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.