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Monday 21 June 2021
Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Florida man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime.
According to court documents, on January 19, 2021, law enforcement officers were conducting surveillance on a residence on 8th Street in Huntington in order to locate Christopher Michael Adkins, 37, who had warrants out for his arrest. When Adkins left the residence, a traffic stop was conducted and officers located 29.8 grams of suspected heroin, 21.3 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales and multiple cell phones in Adkins’ vehicle. Adkins admitted that the items in the vehicle were his.
Adkins pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine and he faces a maximum of 20 years in prison when sentenced on September 20, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Violent Crime and Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Keefe 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. 3:21-cr-00031.
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Five Charged in Scheme to Export to Russia Thermal Imaging Scopes and Night Vision Goggles in Violation of Arms Export Control ActRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – Federal authorities have arrested two Illinois residents named in an indictment that accuses five defendants of conspiring to unlawfully export to Russia defense articles – specifically, thermal imaging riflescopes and night-vision goggles – without a license in violation of the Arms Export Control Act.
The indictment also accuses all five defendants of conspiring to smuggle thermal imaging devices from the United States and file false export information to conceal their activities.
The indictment, which was returned by a federal grand jury on May 26 and unsealed following the arrests on June 17, outlines a nearly four-year scheme in which the defendants purchased dozens of thermal imaging devices – most of which cost between $5,000 and $10,000 and are controlled by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations – from sellers across the United States.
The defendants allegedly obtained many of the items using aliases, falsely assuring the sellers that they would not export the items from the United States. The thermal imaging devices were then exported to co-conspirators in Russia using aliases and false addresses to conceal their activities, according to the indictment.
The defendants hid the thermal imaging devices among other non-export-controlled items when exporting them to Russia, and they falsely stated on export declarations that the contents of their exports were non-export-controlled items with values of less than $2,500, the indictment alleges. In no case did any of the defendants obtain the required export licenses to export defense articles to Russia.
The two defendants arrested on June 17 in Illinois are Elena Shifrin, 59, of Mundelein, Illinois, and Vladimir Pridacha, 55, of Volo, Illinois. These two defendants made their initial court appearances last week in the United States District Court in Chicago and were released on $100,000 bond.
The other three defendants named in the indictment are: Boris Polosin, of Russia; Vladimir Gohman, of Israel, and Igor Panchernikov, an Israeli citizen who, during much of the scheme, resided in Corona, California.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The charge of conspiring to violate the Arms Export Control Act carries a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The second conspiracy charge alleged in the indictment carries a statutory maximum penalty of five years in prison.
The FBI’s Los Angeles and Chicago field offices investigated this matter, with substantial assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant United States Attorneys David T. Ryan and Wilson Park of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section and Justice Department Trial Attorney Matthew Chang of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting this case.
Five Charged in Scheme to Export Thermal Imaging Scopes and Night Vision Goggles to Russia, in Violation of Arms Export Control ActRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Los Angeles unsealed an indictment Thursday that accuses five defendants of conspiring to unlawfully export defense articles to Russia. Specifically, the defendants allegedly exported thermal imaging riflescopes and night-vision goggles without a license, in violation of the Arms Export Control Act.
According to court documents, Elena Shifrin, 59, of Mundelein, Illinois, and Vladimir Pridacha, 55, of Volo, Illinois, were arrested June 17 for their roles in a nearly four-year scheme in which the defendants purchased dozens of thermal imaging devices, most of which cost between $5,000 and $10,000 and are controlled by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, from sellers across the United States. The other three defendants named in the indictment are: Boris Polosin, 45, of Russia; Vladimir Gohman, 52, of Israel; and Igor Panchernikov, 39, an Israeli national who, during much of the scheme, resided in Corona, California.
As outlined in the indictment, the defendants allegedly obtained many of the items using aliases, falsely assuring the sellers that they would not export the items from the United States. The thermal imaging devices were then exported to co-conspirators in Russia using aliases and false addresses to conceal their activities.
As alleged, the defendants hid the thermal imaging devices among other non-export-controlled items when exporting them to Russia, and they falsely stated on export declarations that the contents of their exports were non-export-controlled items with values of less than $2,500. In no case did any of the defendants obtain the required export licenses to export defense articles to Russia.
All five defendants are charged with conspiring to violate the Arms Export Control Act and face up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted. The indictment also accuses all five defendants of conspiring to smuggle thermal imaging devices from the United States and file false export information to conceal their activities, which carries a statutory maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney Tracy Wilkison of the Central District of California and Assistant Attorney General John C. Demers of the Justice Department’s National Security Division made the announcement.
The FBI’s Los Angeles and Chicago Field Offices are investigating the case, with valuable assistance provided by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys David T. Ryan and Wilson Park of the Central District of California and Trial Attorney Matthew Chang of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Federal Jury Convicts Ponsford Man for Violent Assault on the White Earth Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A federal jury convicted a Ponsford man on charges related to a violent assault on the White Earth Indian Reservation, announced Acting U.S. Attorney W. Anders Folk.
Following a four-day trial, Wesley Robert Warren, 22, was convicted on two of four counts, including one count of assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury.
According to the evidence presented at trial, during the early morning hours of June 3, 2020, Warren and another man got into an argument with the victim. The argument escalated into a physical altercation and Warren and the other man knocked out the victim. Once the fight was over and the victim was laying face down on the ground, Warren continued the assault by picking up a 42-pound cinderblock and dropping it on the back of the victim’s head. As a result of the assault the victim was hospitalized for several weeks due to brain trauma and was later transferred to a long-term care facility.
Warren faces up to 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release on each count of conviction. At sentencing, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing date has yet to be scheduled.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Becker County Sheriff’s Office, the White Earth Police Department, and the FBI Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force.
This case was tried by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deidre Y. Aanstad and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Caleb J. Dogeagle.
Erie, PA Man Indicted for Attempting to Possess MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Erie, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charge of violating federal drug laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Marvin Deron Sanders, 43, of Erie, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on or about December 11, 2020, Sanders attempted to possess with intent to distribute more than five hundred grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
The law provides for a maximum total of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pennsylvania State Police Northwest Strike Force, United States Postal Inspection Service, and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Endeavor Executives Resign from Live Nation Board of Directors after Justice Department Expresses Antitrust ConcernsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice announced today that two executives of Endeavor Group Holdings Inc. – Chief Executive Officer and Director Ariel Emanuel, and President Mark Shapiro – have resigned their positions on the Live Nation Entertainment Inc. Board of Directors after the department expressed concerns that their positions on the Live Nation Board created an illegal interlocking directorate. An interlocking directorate is where one person – or an agent of one person or company – serves as an officer or director of two companies. Section 8 of the Clayton Act prohibits the same person or company from serving as an officer or director of two competing companies, except under certain defined safe harbors.
Endeavor and Live Nation compete closely in many sports and entertainment markets. Both Live Nation and Endeavor, through its wholly owned and minority owned subsidiaries, promote and sell tickets and VIP packages that include tickets, lodging and travel accommodations, to live music, sporting and other entertainment events. Based on U.S. revenues, the interlock did not qualify for any of the Section 8 safe harbors.
“These resignations ensure that Endeavor and Live Nation will compete independently,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Richard A. Powers of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Executives are not permitted to hold board positions on companies that compete with each other. The division will enforce the antitrust laws to make sure that all companies compete on the merits.”
Section 8 imposes bright line prohibitions designed to prevent harm from competitors having overlapping directors or managers, regardless of whether any anticompetitive conduct actually occurs. Interlocking directorates can restrict competition by providing a conduit for the exchange of competitively sensitive information and by facilitating coordination between competing companies. By eliminating the opportunity to coordinate – explicitly or implicitly – through interlocking directorates, Section 8 prevents violations of the antitrust laws before they occur.
Endeavor Group Holdings Inc. is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Beverly Hills, California. Among other things, it owns various sports and entertainment properties; produces, promotes, and tickets sports and entertainment events; and represents entertainers and athletes.
Live Nation Entertainment Inc. is also a Delaware corporation headquartered in Beverly Hills, California. It is a leading producer and operator of live music concerts. Live Nation also is a leading live entertainment ticketing and marketing company.
Durham Gang Member Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Possession of Ammunition in Connection with ShootingRead the Press Release
GREENSBORO, N.C. - Shermaine Maurice Hammond of Durham, also known as “Mizzle,” was sentenced today to 120 months in prison for possessing ammunition in connection with a shooting that occurred during a robbery.
According to court documents, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Raleigh-Durham Safe Streets Task Force was investigating recent gang activity in Durham, North Carolina when Hammond, age 26, was arrested in April 2020. Hammond was an active member of the Nine Trey Gangster Bloods. On March 15, 2020, officers with the Durham Police Department responded to North Miami Boulevard and found a man with multiple gunshot wounds lying in a parking lot. The victim reported that he had been at an adjacent nightlife establishment and was attacked after getting into a car with a woman.
Investigators reviewed video surveillance footage that showed Hammond inside the establishment and then walking toward the car prior to the incident. After the woman and victim got into the car, the woman drove it to a nearby closed business. Surveillance video from that business showed Hammond pointing a gun at the victim as the victim backed away from Hammond. Investigators recovered eleven spent 9mm cartridges from the location. Additional footage showed the injured and bleeding victim fleeing back to the nightlife establishment over a block away. Hammond returned to the establishment in the car and took the victim’s phone as he tried to use it. Hammond and another man then repeatedly punched the victim before leaving the scene.
Just over two weeks later, members of the FBI Raleigh-Durham Safe Streets Task Force executed a warrant at Hammond’s girlfriend’s apartment. As they entered, Hammond attempted to escape by jumping out of a back window but was apprehended. Hammond admitted to shooting, beating, and robbing a man outside of the nightlife establishment on March 15, 2020, but claimed the man initiated the confrontation. He also confirmed that he was a member of the Nine Trey Gangster Bloods in Durham.
Hammond pleaded guilty to the federal charge on March 22, 2021. He is charged in state court with assault with a deadly weapon and robbery with a dangerous weapon in connection with the March 15, 2020 incident. Those charges are still pending.
Hammond was convicted of felony carrying a concealed gun in February 2015 and was therefore not permitted to possess ammunition.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, United States District Judge Catherine C. Eagles ordered Hammond to serve three years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by members of the Durham Police Department, FBI Raleigh-Durham Safe Streets Task Force, and the Durham County Sheriff’s Office.
Sandra J. Hairston, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina, made the announcement.
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Detroit Man Who Robbed Credit Union and Crashed Getaway Car Near Vandenberg Air Force Base Sentenced to 2½ Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Michigan man was sentenced today to 30 months in federal prison for robbing a credit union – and two days later attempting to rob a bank then leading law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit that ended with him crashing his getaway car near Vandenberg Air Force Base.
Maurice Antwion Pilgrim Jr., 20, of Detroit, was sentenced by United States District Judge Percy Anderson, who also ordered him to pay $748 in restitution. Pilgrim pleaded guilty on April 8 to one count of bank robbery.
On October 13, 2020, Pilgrim robbed Coast Hills Credit Union in Lompoc, netting $3,000 in the theft. Two days later, Pilgrim attempted to rob Mechanics Bank in Guadalupe by handing one of the tellers a note which read, “give me $5,000-$10,000 and no gets hurt.” Pilgrim fled the scene after seeing a nearby bank security guard.
After fleeing Mechanics Bank, local law enforcement spotted Pilgrim driving a car on Highway 1 and began pursuing him. After initially stopping his car, Pilgrim refused to exit the vehicle and, to avoid capture, sped away. During his subsequent flight from law enforcement he drove at speeds more than 110 mph, weaving in and out of traffic, and almost colliding with other motorists on the road.
Pilgrim’s vehicle went off the road near the Vandenberg Air Force Base visitor center, and he attempted to flee on foot, but he was quickly apprehended. Law enforcement recovered $552 from Pilgrim’s car and $1,700 from his pockets that were proceeds of his robbery of Coast Hills Credit Union two days earlier.
“(Pilgrim) attempted to commit a second bank robbery after the first was successful, and his reaction to getting caught represented a serious disregard for the safety of others, including the public at large,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memorandum.
The FBI, the Lompoc Police Department, the Guadalupe Police Department, and the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office investigated this matter.
Assistant United States Attorney Lynda Lao of the General Crimes Section prosecuted this case.
Convicted Felon with Violent Criminal History Sentenced on Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – A convicted felon with two prior aggravated assault convictions was sentenced to federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm.
Carlos Alexander aka Carlos Malone, 39, of Columbus, was sentenced to serve 90 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on Tuesday, June 15, by U.S. District Judge Clay Land after pleading guilty to one count possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. There is no parole in the federal system.
“This sentence reflects the violent criminal history Carlos Alexander has racked up in Columbus. Violent felons caught illegally possessing guns in Columbus and in other cities across the Middle District of Georgia will face the possibility of federal prosecution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are committed to decreasing violent crime in Columbus and across Middle Georgia.”
“As a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, Carlos Alexander presented a real danger to the community and to law enforcement,” said John Schmidt, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Atlanta Field Division. “Despite being prohibited from possessing a firearm, he was armed when encountered by officers. The federal prosecution of this crime demonstrates ATF’s dedication to working alongside our local, state and federal partners, in this case the Columbus Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, to ensure violent individuals like Alexander are deprived of the ability to continue terrorizing our community.”
“I am pleased with the outcome of this case. Also, I am thankful for our partnership with our federal partners. We will continue to work together to make cases on violent criminals. This type behavior will not be tolerated in Columbus, Georgia,” said Columbus Police Chief Freddie Blackmon.
According to court records, Alexander was taken into custody by Columbus Police Department officers on October 14, 2019, at approximately 2:00 a.m., matching the description of a suspect in an attempted armed robbery in the city that same day. Alexander was wearing body armor. Inside his vehicle, officers found a black ski mask in the front passenger's seat and a semi-automatic pistol with magazine and five unspent .25 caliber cartridges in the center console. At the time of the possession of the firearm, Alexander knew he was a convicted felon and that it was illegal for him to be in possession of a firearm. He has previously been convicted of aggravated assault twice as well as attempted armed robbery and possession of a firearm in the Superior Court of Muscogee County, Georgia.
ATF and the Columbus Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Williams prosecuted the case.
Citrus County Woman Arrested for Using A Minor to Produce Child Sex Abuse Images and Distributing Them over the InternetRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Karin Hoppmann announces the arrest of Ashley Renea Hilligoss (37, Citrus Springs) on a criminal complaint charging her with the production and distribution of images depicting the sexual abuse of a child. If convicted on both counts, Hilligoss faces a maximum penalty of 50 years in federal prison and a potential life term of supervised release.
According to the complaint, Hilligoss took sexually explicit photographs of a child to whom she had access and sent these photos to another individual over the internet. Federal agents later searched an encrypted online file storage account belonging to that individual, which account contained copies of the photographs.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Ocala Resident Agency. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William S. Hamilton.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Boston Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of Loaded FirearmRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition. The defendant led police on a car chase before he was apprehended in Chelsea.
Raughn Williams, 23, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin scheduled sentencing for Oct. 12, 2021. Williams was charged by criminal complaint in October 2020.
On Aug. 10, 2020, a state trooper attempted to pull over a vehicle driven by Williams on Storrow Drive in Boston for a tinted windows violation. Williams refused to pull over, and instead led police on a chase down Storrow Drive and onto the Tobin Bridge. Williams exited the Tobin Bridge into Chelsea, where he crashed the vehicle into two other cars and then fled on foot. Williams was apprehended and a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber handgun loaded with 14 rounds of ammunition was recovered. Federal law prohibits Williams from possessing a firearm or ammunition due to a prior felony conviction.
The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Chelsea Police Chief Brian Kyes made the announcement today.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Bladen County Political Consultant Pleads Guilty to Theft of Government Property and Social Security FraudRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, N.C. – A Bladenboro man pleaded guilty today to theft of government property and Social Security fraud.
According to court documents, Leslie McCrae Dowless, 65, defrauded the Social Security Administration by concealing his work and income while receiving monthly benefits payments. In February 2013, Dowless applied for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. In the application, Dowless claimed that he was unable to work due to a disability. Dowless received SSI benefits until July 2018, when he applied for Retirement Insurance Benefits (RIB). In his application for RIB, Dowless stated that he did not expect to work in 2018 and had not worked in the two years preceding his application. Dowless received RIB benefits through November 2018. Dowless was required to report certain events to the Social Security Administration, including changes in his work activity, income, or resources.
Unbeknownst to the Social Security Administration, Dowless worked as a consultant for at least two political campaigns during the 2018 Midterm Elections. From March 2017 to November 2018, Dowless received at least 59 checks totaling $135,365.57 for consulting work. Dowless failed to report his work and income to the Social Security Administration.
Dowless pleaded guilty to theft of government property, 18 U.S.C. § 641, and Social Security Fraud, 42 U.S.C. § 1383a(a)(3) and faces a maximum penalty of 180 months in prison when sentenced on August 23, 2021.
G. Norman Acker, III, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle accepted the plea. The Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General and the Federal Burea of Investigation are investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Toby Lathan is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:20-CR-53-B0.
Beckley Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Beckley man pleaded guilty today to a federal drug crime.
Pursuant to the plea agreement and statements made in court, on January 9, 2020, Greg Anthony Waters, Jr., 27, sold approximately 3.5 grams of heroin to a confidential informant working with law enforcement. Waters admitted to meeting the informant in Beckley to sell the drugs. Waters also admitted to selling heroin and fentanyl on several other occasions between January 9, 2020 and September 18, 2020. As further part of the plea, Waters agreed to abandon to the United States and the State of West Virginia multiple firearms that were recovered by law enforcement during a search of Waters’ apartment. Waters admitted that he was prohibited from possessing the firearms due to a prior felony conviction in Illinois.
Waters pleaded guilty to distribution of heroin and he faces up to 20 years in federal prison when sentenced on October 18, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, which is comprised of officers from the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, the Beckley Police Department and the West Virginia State Police.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk 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. 5:21-cr-00012.
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Armed Crystal Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to 14 YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Fayetteville man was sentenced today to 168 months in prison and five years of supervised release for trafficking crystal methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
On February 24, 2021, Terekus Derrell Rogers pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Fifty Grams or More of Crystal Methamphetamine (Count One); Possession with Intent to Distribute Fifty Grams or More of Crystal Methamphetamine (Count Two); and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime (Count Three).
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Rogers, 39, sold crystal methamphetamine to a confidential informant on several dates from May to July, 2020.
Rogers was arrested on July 30, 2020 and was found in possession of more than 26 grams of crystal methamphetamine. Agents then executed a search warrant at Rogers’s residence. Agents seized almost 800 grams of crystal methamphetamine; a rifle; a revolver; a handgun; almost 150 rounds of ammunition; drug packaging materials; and more than $28,000 in currency.
G. Norman Acker, III, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Fayetteville Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Lemmon prosecuted 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 https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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. 5:20-CR-375-D-1.
Saturday 19 June 2021
Kentuckiana Physician and Nurse Practitioner Found Guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud, and Conspiracy to Commit Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
The following is a corrected media release updating the release previously issued on June 15, 2021. This media release clarifies that the defendants, Dr. Jeffrey Campbell and Mark Dyer, were found guilty of, among other charges, conspiracy to unlawfully distribute controlled substances and were acquitted of all substantive distribution of controlled substances counts.
LOUISVILLE – On Friday, June 11, 2021, a federal jury convicted a Louisville physician, nurse practitioner, and the medical practice in United States District Court, before District Judge Rebecca G. Jennings, of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute and dispense controlled substances, conspiracy to commit health care fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Following a six-week trial, the jury deliberated approximately three days before finding Dr. Jeffrey Campbell, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Mark Dyer, and Physicians Primary Care, PLLC (“PPC”), guilty on 13 of 22 charges. Sentencing is scheduled before Judge Jennings on September 8, 2021, at 9 a.m., in Louisville.
The jury found Campbell, Dyer, and PPC guilty of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute and dispense controlled substances, not for a legitimate medical purpose and outside the usual course of professional practice between January 1, 2009, and December 1, 2016. The controlled substances prescribed were Oxycodone and Methadone, schedule II controlled substances. The jury also found Campbell, Dyer, and PPC guilty of conspiring to commit health care fraud for falsely and fraudulently billing Kentucky Medicaid (Passport), Indiana Medicaid and Medicare by submitting claims for physical therapy, counseling and exercise services using evaluation and management codes in order to obtain higher reimbursement. Campbell and Dyer were also convicted of conspiracy to commit money laundering for paying and/or receiving bonuses to incentivize the ordering of physical therapy, counseling, and exercise. Finally, Campbell and Dyer were convicted of billing for physical therapy services using evaluation and management codes as if a physician performed a service on the patients, but in reality, a non-physician and non-physical therapist performed the service on the patients.
“I commend the outstanding work of the prosecution team and that of the agents and investigators who worked on this case,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett. “Conspiring to unlawfully distribute controlled substances by medical professionals entrusted with the health and well-being of our citizens is extremely troubling. This office, working with our federal and state partners, will continue to vigorously pursue this kind of criminal conduct, as well as all forms of health care fraud, throughout the entire Western District of Kentucky.”
“Conspiring to unlawfully distribute and dispense controlled substances with no legitimate medical purpose and the fraudulent billing of federally funded health care programs will not be tolerated,” said Lamont Pugh III, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General – Chicago Region. “These convictions send a strong message that the OIG and our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners are committed to protecting the health and safety of patients and taxpayer dollars.”
“Physicians and medical professionals take an oath that obligates them to do no harm. Dr. Campbell, Mark Dyer, and the other defendants willingly broke that oath – by conspiring to provide unnecessary drugs and defrauding various benefits programs – solely to line their pockets,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office. “Today’s guilty verdict sends a message to those who prioritize profit over care: The FBI and its partners will root out physicians and healthcare professionals who let dollar signs rather than medical needs drive their treatment of patients.”
“Today’s announcement illustrates IRS CI’s commitment to combatting healthcare fraud and those who launder proceeds of healthcare fraud,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS, Criminal Investigation. “I applaud the terrific efforts of the trial team and our law enforcement partners in investigating and prosecuting this important case.”
Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph Ansari, Lettricea Jefferson-Webb and Christopher Tieke prosecuted the case. Elizabeth Fauxpoint, paralegal, and Bob Masterson, health care fraud investigator, assisted the prosecution team. The case was investigated by the United States Department for Health and Human Services (HHS), Defense Criminal Investigative Services (DCIS), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Indiana Attorney General’s Office and the Kentucky Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU).
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Friday 18 June 2021
U.S. Attorney’s Office Agrees to Termination of Federal Monitorship Requirement for Utah Transit AuthorityRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY- The Utah U.S. Attorney’s Office has agreed to the termination of a federal monitorship agreement with the Utah Transit Authority based upon UTA’s substantial compliance with the monitorship requirements and a federal non-prosecution agreement entered into by the parties in 2017.
In April of 2017, UTA and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah entered into a non-prosecution agreement arising out of a federal investigation into UTA’s operation of mass public transit services, application for federal grants and funding, expenditure and use of federal funds, or the negotiation for, and/or acquisition of, real property, equipment and other capital improvements related to UTA operations. The non-prosecution agreement was driven in large part by UTA’s acknowledgment and recognition of the need for improved institutional conformity with financial and ethical requirements pertaining to the following four core issues of focus during the investigation:
- Inadequate controls over federal funds and drawdowns from federal grants;
- Improper handling and disclosure of property acquisition and disposition, including inadequate oversight of transit-oriented development projects;
- Non-compliance with ethical standards, resulting in benefits to UTA employees and/or Board members; and
- Improper approval of executive bonuses.
A critical component of the non-prosecution agreement involved the retention of a third-party monitor to ensure the continued implementation of institutional improvements and reforms, and to recommend additional improvements and reforms, particularly those intended to address the four core issues. On September 5, 2018, UTA formally retained a team of attorneys from the law firm of Coblentz Patch Duffy & Bass (the “Monitor”) to conduct the UTA federal monitorship, broken down into three phases.
The first phase of the monitorship was an investigatory inquiry involving interviews of UTA employees and a review of UTA records aimed at identifying the institutional problems within UTA that led to the lack of conformity with financial and ethical requirements related to the four core issues identified in the Non-Prosecution Agreement. This phase was completed by UTA in July of 2019.
The second phase of the monitorship was focused on UTA’s adoption of critical reforms related to the same four core issues identified in the Non-Prosecution Agreement. Phase two included a review of the implementation and the effectiveness of reforms recommended by UTA and the Monitor. The reforms included:
- Clarification of the Local Advisory Council’s role and authority over UTA’s major capital projects and its interaction with UTA’s three-member Board;
- New policies and standard operating procedures related to the four core issues;
- New and revised conflict of interest policies and procedures, along with ethics training;
- Implementing an ethics hotline and a completely anonymous process for whistleblowers to raise concerns about ethics;
- Establishing an independent risk management function, an additional layer of checks and balances targeting future risks and the functionality of implemented controls;
- New or revised polices concerning ethics and gift parameters for procurement professionals, along with safeguards designed to identify and eliminate malfeasance during the approval process of any transit-oriented developments.
The third phase of the monitorship involved a final report issued by the Monitor. Based upon the review of the Monitor’s interim and final reports, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office ongoing review and confirmation of UTA’s adherence to key financial and ethical requirements pertaining to the four core issues identified in the non-prosecution agreement, the United States Attorney’s Office has notified UTA that the federal monitorship is deemed completed and terminated, effective immediately.
“The successful completion of the Monitorship is the product of effective collaboration between UTA and the Monitor to assess the effectiveness of prior reforms and implement new reforms, all aimed at putting UTA in an ideal position to continue to elevate and maintain a high level of financial and ethical integrity going forward,” said Acting United States Attorney Andrea T. Martinez. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is pleased with the fruits of its non-prosecution agreement, the Monitorship, and UTA’s commitment to doing things right as it strives to meet the needs of the Utah community. Equally important is the public release of the Final Monitorship Report, ensuring full transparency of the manner and means through which the Monitorship was brought to a successful completion.”
Two Men from Illinois Were Sentenced to over 19 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE-Quran R. Waterford, 36, of Chicago, Illinois and Gary McCaleb, 31, of Harvey, Illinois, were sentenced on June 18, 2021, before United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, following their pleas of guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Hobbs Act Robbery and two counts of brandishing a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Waterford was sentenced to 239 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
McCaleb was sentenced to 245 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
Restitution of $8,630 was imposed against both defendants.
According to documents filed in the case, on December 5, 2018, Quran Waterford and Gary McCaleb entered B&H Firearms in Fort Wayne while armed with a firearm, tied the owner’s hands behind his back and stole over $8,000 worth of firearms. Eight days later, on December 13, 2018, Waterford, McCaleb, and an unknown individual, entered a T-Mobile cellular telephone store in Fort Wayne while armed with a firearm, restrained two employees and two customers by zip tying their hands behind their backs, before fleeing with numerous cellular telephones. Waterford and McCaleb were apprehended by the Fort Wayne Police Department after a short pursuit.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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Three Indicted in Drug Conspiracy as Kidnapping Investigation ContinuesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – As U.S. Postal Inspection Service agents, with the assistance of Rhode Island State Police and Pawtucket Police, continue to investigate the alleged kidnapping of a postal carrier on June 1, 2021, a federal grand jury in Providence today returned a two-count indictment in a related investigation charging three men with participating in a conspiracy to possess and distribute significant quantities of cocaine shipped through the U.S. Postal Service, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard B. Myrus.
It is alleged that on June 1, 2021, a Postal Service employee was abducted in Pawtucket and driven by two masked men to his home. At least one of the abductors claimed to be seeking the contents of an empty package they said the postal carrier delivered to a residence in Pawtucket on May 24, 2021. After the abductors learned the postal employee did not have a key with him to enter his locked home, he was returned unharmed to an area near where his postal truck was parked.
According to court documents, based on information provided by the Postal Service employee, witness statements, surveillance videos, and various databases, investigators identified the vehicle allegedly used in the kidnapping, and its owner, Edgar Medina, 37, of Johnston.
During the investigation into the alleged kidnapping, Postal Inspection Service agents learned of several packages that had previously been shipped from fictitious addresses in Puerto Rico to actual addresses in Pawtucket, Cranston, Johnston, and Providence, some of which are associated with Medina.
As the investigation continued, Postal Service Inspectors intercepted three additional packages that a Rhode Island State Police K-9 alerted for the presence of narcotics. Court-authorized searches of the packages resulted in the discovery of a total of more than three kilograms of cocaine. Postal Inspectors arranged for controlled deliveries of the packages on June 8, while the recipient addresses were under surveillance by U.S. Postal Service Inspectors, members of the Rhode Island State Police High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, and the Rhode Island State Police Violent Fugitive Task Force. As the packages were delivered, Medina, Andres Garay, 34, of Providence, and Ronald Hall, 38, of Providence, were arrested. Court-authorized searches of vehicles and residences associated with the defendants resulted in the seizure of, among other things, masks and a winter cap fitting the description of items worn by the individuals involved in the kidnapping, as well as batons, a set of brass knuckles, and a Taser.
A grand jury today returned an indictment charging Medina, Andres, and Garay with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. They have been detained in federal custody since their arrest.
A federal indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christine D. Lowell and Lee H. Vilker.
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Rapid City Men Sentenced for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that two Rapid City, South Dakota, men convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance were sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Thomas Janis, age 36, was sentenced on May 27, 2021, to 12 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Frank Janis, age 38, was sentenced on June 7, 2021, to time served, two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The Janis brothers were indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2020. The charge related to Thomas Janis using the internet to purchase boxes of Tramadol pills from various locations outside the United States. Janis then distributed these shipments of multiple blister packs of Tramadol pills to individuals in the District of South Dakota between 2017 and 2020. One of these individuals was his brother, Frank Janis, who paid Thomas for each box of blister packs. Thomas then sold the Tramadol pills and kept the remaining profits for himself. Thomas Janis distributed at least 40,000, but less than 80,000 pills, and Frank Janis distributed at least 16,000, but less than 40,000 pills, during the course of the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; U.S. Department of the Interior - Bureau of Indian Affairs; and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (“UNET”), a local drug task force comprised of agencies including the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation. U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Thomas Janis was ordered to self-surrender to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on June 16, 2021.
Rapid City Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.
Kenneth Larson, age 54, was indicted on May 20, 2021. Larson appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 9, 2021, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a mandatory minimum of five up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, up to lifetime supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Larson receiving and possessing computer images of child pornography at Rapid City between April 2015 and November 2020. The charges are merely an accusation and Larson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is a joint effort between Homeland Security Investigations, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah B. Collins is prosecuting the case.
Larson was released on conditions pending trial. A trial date has been set for August 17, 2021.
Previously Convicted Bank Robber Going Back to Prison for Escaping from Federal Facility and Committing Two Robberies, Including Another Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Joseph Licata, 52, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of bank robbery, was sentenced to serve 151 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan T. Cullinane, who is handling the case, stated that on January 17, 2020, the defendant escaped from the custody of the United States Penitentiary Coleman II in Sumterville, Florida. On January 21, 2020, Licata entered the M&T Bank branch on Grant Street in Buffalo, and passed a demand note to the victim-teller. The note threatened the teller if the teller did not give him cash. Later that same day, the defendant entered a Speedway Gas Station on Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo and demanded cash. The victim-clerk complied and gave U.S. currency to the defendant. Law enforcement officers arrested Licata and found him in possession of currency taken during the robberies.
In 2010, Licata, having previously been convicted in federal court of committing a bank robbery in Buffalo, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison.
The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood.
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Philadelphia Man Convicted After Trial for Unlawful Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – Acting United States Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams announced that Stacy Gallman, 31, of Philadelphia, PA, was convicted today at trial for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
In December 2019, Philadelphia Police Officers pulled Gallman over for a traffic violation when the vehicle he was driving failed to stop at a stop sign. When they approached the vehicle, officers noticed that the passenger had a firearm in his pocket. Moments later, when the officers asked Gallman to step out of the car, they discovered a second firearm next to the driver’s seat. At the time of the incident, the defendant was a convicted felon and was not allowed by law to possess a firearm.
In an unrelated case, on June 11, 2021, Kenneth Blakeney, 29, of Philadelphia, PA, was convicted after trial, also for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The firearm in Blakeney’s possession was also discovered during a traffic stop by Philadelphia police.
“I have said many times in recent months that our Office is determined to continue doing everything we can to reduce gun violence in Philadelphia by being ‘All Hands On Deck,’” said Acting U.S. Attorney Williams. “Today’s conviction is the second in as many weeks against someone who sustained a felony conviction and then illegally possessed a firearm. Both men will now face lengthy prison sentences.”
“The possession of a firearm by a convicted felon threatens the safety of our entire community,” said Matthew Varisco, Special Agent in charge of ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “Thanks to our partners at the Philadelphia Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s office, this defendant is no longer in a position to harm the citizens of Philadelphia.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Martin.
Pesticide Smuggler Sentenced to 90 Days in Custody; Ordered to Pay $10,000Read the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorney Melanie K. Pierson (619) 546-7976
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – June 18, 2021
SAN DIEGO –Felix Gutierrez Valencia of Perris, California, was sentenced in federal court today to 90 days in custody for attempting to smuggle pesticides into the United States. In addition, Gutierrez was ordered to pay a fine of $2,500 and restitution of $8,807 for the cost of disposal of the pesticides, and perform 100 hours of community service during three years of supervised release.
In pleading guilty, Gutierrez admitted that, on April 16, 2020, he entered the United States at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry, where 48 containers of undeclared Mexican pesticides were discovered in his truck. Gutierrez had concealed some of the containers of pesticides in cereal and cookie boxes. The pesticides included Furadan, Monitor, Bayfolan, Biomec, Ridomil Gold, Kanemite and Rodentox. Gutierrez later acknowledged that, after his arrest in April, he offered to pay another individual to smuggle pesticides into the United States. However, that person was also caught at the border with 37 containers of Furadan, Biomec, Biozyme and Tetrasan.
Two of the pesticides smuggled by Gutierrez contain active ingredients that are cancelled in the United States, and thus are not permitted to be imported or sold. Furadan contains the cancelled pesticide carbofuran, which is a highly toxic insecticide that affects the central nervous systems by the same mechanism as chemical warfare nerve agents. It is highly toxic to birds, fish and mammals and is classified by the EPA as Toxicity Category I, the highest category, based upon its lethal potency. Monitor contains the cancelled pesticide methamidophos, which is one of the most acutely toxic organophosphate pesticides, also related to chemical warfare nerve agents. Rodentox contains zinc phosphide, an extremely toxic rodenticide. Ingestion of 7 drops to one teaspoons of zinc phosphide would likely kill a 150-pound person.
According to the sentencing documents, all of the chemicals smuggled by the defendant are commonly found at locations where marijuana is illegally cultivated. Exposure to these pesticides during eradication efforts has cause law enforcement officers to be hospitalized, has polluted soils and streams, and has killed wildlife. Cannabis users are also at risk, In one study, the pesticide transfer rate into the blood stream of a cannabis smoker using a glass pipe was as high as 70 percent.
“Trafficking in illegal pesticides is big business, and we are aggressively prosecuting many of these smuggling cases in order to protect the public,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman. “The toxic chemicals are extremely dangerous, with the power to poison people, wildlife, water sources and soil. Smugglers like this defendant are attempting to sneak banned pesticides across the border as if they are illicit narcotics, and they are getting caught and going to prison. That’s how serious these offenses are.” Grossman praised Assistant U.S. Attorney Melanie Pierson for her excellent work prosecuting environmental crimes, and he also commended agents from Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division.
“There’s a reason the federal government prohibits the importation of certain types of pesticides,” said Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Diego. “Some of the chemicals may be toxic and exposure can be dangerous or fatal to both humans and wildlife. This individual not only disregarded the hazards associated with improperly handling these types of chemicals, he attempted to smuggle the chemicals into the U.S., which is a very serious crime. HSI and its partner organizations will continue to pursue, arrest, and bring to justice, anyone who tries to smuggle these highly toxic chemicals into the U.S.”
“The pesticides involved in this case pose serious public health and environmental dangers,” said Special Agent in Charge Scot Adair of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in California. “The sentence in this case demonstrates that individuals who intentionally violate smuggling and environmental protection laws will be held responsible for their crimes.”
DEFENDANT Case Number 20cr2058-JLS
Felix Gutierrez Valencia Age: 40 Perris, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Smuggling – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 545
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
AGENCY
Homeland Security Investigations
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division
Omaha Man Sentenced in Drug Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Jan Sharp announced that Anthony Moore, 49, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha for conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Bataillon sentenced Moore to 60 months’ imprisonment. Moore will serve a 4-year term of supervised release following his release from the Bureau of Prisons. There is no parole in the federal system.
In October 2017, the FBI began investigating a suspected cocaine trafficking ring operating out of Omaha. In January 2018, a confidential source contacted Moore to arrange to buy cocaine. Moore, along with a co-conspirator, sold the confidential source an eight ball, or 3.5 grams, of cocaine.
In March 2018, a second eight-ball buy of cocaine was arranged with the confidential source and Moore. On March 8, 2019, an eight-ball weighing (3.5 grams) was sold to a confidential source. Over the course of the investigation, the confidential source would make at least 12 purchases of cocaine directly from Moore or his co-conspirators.
On June 20, 2018, United States Postal Inspectors seized a package suspected to contain drugs in Omaha. The parcel was shipped from San Francisco, California, and addressed to Moore at a rental property owned and controlled by Moore. Contained within the package was 520.5 grams of powder cocaine. Through investigation, including video surveillance, the sender was shown to be Moore.
Law enforcement applied for and received permission to intercept text messages and phone calls between Moore and his co-conspirators. Over several months, law enforcement monitored these conversations to identify the group’s hierarchy, source of supply for cocaine, and money transfers.
On February 17, 2019, law enforcement executed several search warrants, including one search warrant on Moore’s home. There, they recovered 133.1 grams of powder cocaine and $10,762 in US currency which was forfeited. Officers also found cutting agents, packaging materials, scales and paraphernalia consistent with drug distribution.
Co-defendants Isaac Johnson and Amanda Ferrell are scheduled for jury trial in the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska on July 20, 2021.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
Man Convicted of Abusive Sexual Conduct Aboard an Airplane Is Sentenced to Two Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Siva K. Durbesula, 29, of India, who was convicted by a jury of abusive sexual contact aboard an airplane, was sentenced to two years in prison late yesterday. In addition to the prison term imposed, Chief U.S. District Judge Martin Reidinger ordered Durbesula to serve 10 years of supervised release and to pay a $5,000 assessment.
Acting U.S. Attorney William T. Stetzer and M. Rhett DeHeart, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina, are joined by Robert R. Wells, Special Agent in Charge for the FBI in Charlotte, in making today’s announcement.
According to filed court documents, witness testimony, and evidence presented at trial, on June 23, 2019, Durbesula was a passenger aboard a flight from Chicago O’Hare to Myrtle Beach, S.C. Over the course of the flight, Durbesula sexually assaulted a 22-year-old female who was seated next to him. As the victim testified at trial, Durbesula pulled her toward him and groped her repeatedly midflight. Court records show that after the flight crew moved Durbesula away from the victim, Durbesula asked to return to his previous seat so he could speak to the victim again.
During trial, prosecutors also presented the testimony of a second victim, who testified that on March 21, 2019 – approximately three months prior to the assault on the airplane – Durbesula pinned her into the corner on a New York City subway train and groped her. The victim was able to video record Durbesula’s exiting the train, which assisted the New York Police Department to identify Durbesula and charge him. Those charges were still pending when Durbesula sexually assaulted the victim on the airplane that resulted in federal charges.
The case was originally indicted in the District of South Carolina and was later transferred to the Western District of North Carolina. In announcing today’s sentence, Judge Reidinger handed Durbesula the statutory maximum prison term for the offense, noting that the defendant’s repeated sexual misconduct over a short period of time required the maximum statutory punishment to promote respect for the law.
Durbesula is currently in federal custody. He will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
In making today’s announcement, Acting U.S. Attorneys Stetzer and DeHeart commended the FBI and the Horry County Police Department for their investigation of the case, and thanked Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for their invaluable assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Don Gast, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina in Asheville, and Derek A. Shoemake, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina in Florence, prosecuted the case.
Lubec Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine—A Lubec man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Bangor to possessing child pornography, Acting U.S. Attorney Donald E. Clark announced.
According to court records, in 2018, the Maine State Police Computer Crimes Unit received information that a Twitter user was uploading and storing images and videos of child pornography. Investigators determined that the Twitter account was associated with the address of Rubin Perry, 34, in Lubec. Investigators obtained a search warrant for the address and interviewed Perry while executing the warrant. He admitted that he had a problem with child pornography and he did not know how to stop. He also admitted to having child pornography on his cell phone. His cell phone was later found to contain multiple images of child pornography.
If Perry is found to have a qualifying prior conviction, he faces a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and not less than five years of supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Maine State Police Computer Crimes Unit investigated the case.
Little Eagle Man Indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of ChildRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Little Eagle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child and Abusive Sexual Contact with a Child.
Holden Cole Thompson, age 30, was indicted on June 8, 2021. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 15, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, life on supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between 2014 and 2019 in Little Eagle, Thompson sexually abused and molested a child who had not attained the age of 12 years.
The charges are merely accusations and Thompson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Thompson was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Lincoln Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine—A Lincoln man was sentenced today in federal court for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Donald E. Clark announced.
U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Brandon Tolman, 32, to time served (25 months) and three years of supervised release. Tolman pleaded guilty in February 2021.
According to court records, between approximately May 2018 and July 2018, Tolman was part of a drug distribution operation based out of Florida and operating in northern Maine. A co-conspirator obtained large quantities of methamphetamine from Florida and had it transported to Maine. Tolman sold the drug in the Lincoln area while other members of the conspiracy sold it in Bangor, Howland and Houlton.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency investigated the case.
Jerome M. Cruz Sentenced to Prison for Unemployment Fraud Charge Related to COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
Hagatña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that defendant Jerome Michael Cruz, age 26, from Barrigada, Guam, was sentenced in the United States District Court of Guam to ten months imprisonment for Federal Program Theft in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 666(a)(1)(A) and (b) and Accessing Protected Computer in Furtherance of Fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1030(a)(4) and (c)(3)(A). The Court also ordered three years of supervised release following imprisonment, $14,210.00 in restitution, and a mandatory $200 special assessment fee.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) created a temporary federal unemployment insurance program called Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). PUA, administered by the Guam Department of Labor (GDOL), provides unemployment insurance benefits for individuals who are unemployed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and those who are not covered by typical unemployment programs (e.g., the self-employed, independent contractors, or gig economy workers).
Jerome Michael Cruz was employed by GDOL as a Customer Service Representative assisting the public with PUA and FPUC claims. While employed, Cruz filed a claim for PUA benefits on his own behalf, falsely certifying that he was unemployed and eligible for benefits. Cruz used his knowledge and privileged access to the GDOL computer system to modify existing PUA claims and to submit fraudulent PUA claims on behalf of other persons while directing the benefits from these fraudulent claims into a bank account he controlled. As part of the scheme, Cruz logged in to the GDOL system using other employee’s credentials to certify and approve these fraudulent claims. From September 2020 through November 2020, Cruz obtained and attempted to obtain a total of $93,000 in benefits.
United States Attorney Anderson stated, “Unemployment assistance has provided vital support to many people suffering from the economic effects of the pandemic. Nationwide, the scale of fraud related to the disbursement of CARES Act funds has been staggering. While Guam has not seen the same level of criminal activity, this case reveals that it is occurring. Any theft by a government employee in a position of trust should concern the public. I applaud GDOL for holding its employees accountable.”
FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Steven B. Merrill stated, “The money in the government's financial assistance funds—particularly during a crisis like a pandemic—are essential to people’s survival. This case is an example of an individual who chose to line his own pockets with money intended to help those who truly need it. Thanks to the partnership and hard work of the Guam Department of Labor and United States Attorney's Office, we were able to stop this. And to those criminal opportunists out there I say: the FBI is watching, we will catch you, and you will learn the price for defrauding your fellow citizens."
Guam Department of Labor Director David Dell'Isola stated, "I want to thank the FBI who worked so quickly to bring this case to conclusion. We hope this sets an example and discourages others from putting in fraudulent claims."
This case was a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Guam Department of Labor. The case was prosecuted by Benjamin K. Petersburg, Assistant United States Attorney in the District of Guam.
Iowa Man Charged with Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Waterloo, Iowa, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Bank Robbery.
Phillip Christopher Hanten, age 40, was indicted on June 2, 2021. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on June 15, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on May 8, 2021, Hanten took and attempted to take money belonging to the Wells Fargo Bank, located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, a bank whose deposits were then insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
The charge is merely an accusation and Hanten is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Hanten was returned to state custody pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Indianapolis Man Sentenced to 180 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE- Derrick Smith Jr., 32, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced on June 18, 2021, before United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty, following his plea of guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.
Smith was sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to documents filed in the case, on December 12, 2020, Smith possessed a firearm after previously being convicted of a felony. Smith was convicted in 2009 of Burglary in five separate cases in Fort Wayne. Due to these previous convictions, Smith was determined to be an Armed Career Criminal.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.
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Honduran Smuggler and Passenger SentencedRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. - A Honduran national was sentenced today to 9 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for transporting an illegal alien within the United States, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Jack P. Staton, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans, and Jason E. Schneider, Chief Patrol Agent of the Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector.
On January 26, 2021, Ceferino Guardado-Reyes, 38, was stopped by a Border Patrol Agent while driving on Interstate 10 in Jackson County. Guardado-Reyes did not have a driver’s license, and a record check revealed an active deportation warrant out of Texas. The Agent determined Guardado-Reyes and his two passengers were unlawfully present in the United States. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) was notified, and all three vehicle occupants were taken to the Border Patrol Station in Gulfport for investigation, including fingerprint scans into Homeland Security databases. Border Patrol and HSI officials confirmed the identity of Guardado-Reyes and his two passengers as citizens of Honduras and as illegal aliens to the U.S. It also was determined that Guardado-Reyes was unlawfully transporting or smuggling his two passengers from Texas to Florida.
Guardado-Reyes was charged in a federal indictment with transporting an illegal alien within the United States. He pled guilty on March 16, 2021.
A passenger in the vehicle, Daniel Romero-Mancia, 25, of Honduras, pled guilty on April 8, 2021, and was sentenced to “time served” (4 months and 15 days), followed by three years of supervised release, for making a false statement to a federal officer. Romero-Mancia claimed to be from Mexico instead of Honduras and had produced a false identification document.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Border Patrol.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stan Harris.
Former Amherst Pain Doctor Going to Prison for Illegal Prescribing and Defrauding MedicareRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Dr. Gautam Arora, 43, formerly of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of unlawfully acquiring controlled prescriptions by misrepresentation and fraud, and scheming to defraud a health care benefit program, was sentenced to serve 14 months in prison by U.S. District Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel L. Violanti, who handled the case, stated that between April 2013 and May 2017, the defendant, while working as the pain management doctor at the Hens Pain Center in Amherst, NY, prescribed opioids to multiple patients outside the usual course of professional practice and without a legitimate medical purpose. These opioids included hydrocodone, oxycodone, dextroamphetamine-amphetamine, and carisoprodol. Arora wrote approximately 61 prescriptions for controlled substances to individuals who were either not his patients, or without first conducting a proper examination, verifying their medical condition, and assessing the risk of abuse by the individual patient.
In addition, between January 1 and March 31, 2016, the defendant fraudulently billed Medicare for patient office visits totaling $92,209.50. Arora requested and received payment for medical services he did not perform or did not perform to the extent represented.
“History has taught us that inappropriate prescribing practices by some healthcare professionals were a significant contributing factor to the opioid epidemic which continues to ravage this country,” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “This defendant, and others like him, put profits before the well-being of his patients. In the process, he also defrauded a federal health care program designed to help, not harm, those who receive Medicare benefits.”
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ray Donovan, New York Field Division, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
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Española man convicted of involuntary manslaughter in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Douglas Smith, 71, of Española, New Mexico, was convicted today by a federal jury of involuntary manslaughter in Indian Country. A sentencing date has not been set.
According to a criminal complaint and other court records, in the early morning hours of May 5, 2018, Smith shot a woman he believed was trying to break into his mother’s camper trailer. Smith walked outside his residence to investigate a motion sensor alarm, armed with a .22 caliber handgun. When he saw someone at the door of the camper trailer, he fired multiple rounds, one of which struck the victim in the upper left temple, killing her. No weapons or burglary tools were located near the victim.
The incident occurred on the Santa Clara Pueblo and the victim was an enrolled member of the Santa Clara Pueblo. Smith is non-Indian. Smith faces up to eight years in prison.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI investigated this case with assistance from the Española Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Novaline Wilson and Kyle Nayback are prosecuting the case.
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Acting United States Attorney Mark J. Lesko Announces Formation of Civil Rights Team in the Office’s Civil DivisionRead the Press Release
Mark J. Lesko, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced today the creation of a Civil Rights Team in the Office’s Civil Division. The Team, comprised of four Civil Division Assistant U.S. Attorneys and the Civil Division Chief of Civil Rights, enhances the Office’s focus on protecting the rights of the most vulnerable residents of the Eastern District of New York, especially those in disadvantaged communities. The Office has responsibility for the enforcement of our nation’s Civil Rights laws in the Eastern District of New York, which encompasses Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island and Nassau and Suffolk Counties on Long Island. There are approximately eight million residents in the Eastern District.
The Office is creating this team in recognition of President Joseph Biden’s directive in Executive Order 13985, which sets forth that “[a]ffirmatively advancing equity, civil rights, racial justice, and equal opportunity is the responsibility of the whole of our Government.” Among the areas that the Team will focus on are policing, patterns and practices of housing discrimination, and school segregation.
In announcing the formation of the Civil Rights Team, Acting United States Attorney Lesko stated, “Today, the Eastern District of New York, a jurisdiction created by President Abraham Lincoln in 1865, celebrates the Juneteenth National Independence Day commemorating the abolition of slavery, which was signed into law yesterday by President Biden. This Office is firmly committed to identifying and rooting out discrimination in all of its forms, wherever it persists, and we have a long and storied history in the Eastern District of New York of enforcing federal laws that prohibit discrimination. The creation of the Civil Rights Team will further strengthen the Office’s capacity to investigate and civilly prosecute civil rights violations in the City of New York and on Long Island, especially our ability to handle investigations of systemic discrimination. The establishment of the Team demonstrates the commitment of this Office to vigorously enforce our federal civil rights laws to help foster a community where individuals can live safely, free from unlawful discrimination, and ensure equal rights for all, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.”
The Office’s Civil Rights Practice is led by Civil Division Chief of Civil Rights Michael J. Goldberger; the Civil Rights Team is made up of Assistant United States Attorneys Rachel G. Balaban, Megan Freismuth, Sean Greene-Delgado, Dara Olds, and Civil Rights Investigator Laura Riley. The Civil Rights Team is overseen by Civil Division Acting Chief Joseph A. Marutollo and Civil Division Deputy Chief Richard K. Hayes. The Team will continue to partner and coordinate with the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and federal, state and local agencies that enforce civil rights laws. The Office previously announced it had doubled the size of the Criminal Civil Rights Section under the leadership of Chief Elizabeth Geddes, who, among her other responsibilities, will act as liaison to the Civil Division’s newly formed Civil Rights Team.
The Office has also created a new webpage, located at https://www.justice.gov/usao-edny/civil-rights, dedicated to Civil Rights Enforcement, which highlights the work of the Office and provides links to complaint forms and to other civil rights resources. For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, or to report to report suspected violations of civil rights please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-edny.
Arizona Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking Along with an Illegal Alien Co-ConspiratorRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Bob Murray announced today that JOSE LUIS URREA, age 35 of Tucson, Arizona, and MARIO VERA-SANDOVAL, age 51 of Cananea, Sonora, Mexico were convicted and sentenced by Federal District Court Alan B. Johnson related to their involvement in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Urrea was sentenced to 63 months. Vera-Sandoval was sentenced to 37 months of imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervision, and was convicted of illegally entering the United States, for which he received a sentence of time served.
On August 14, 2020, the defendants were stopped by Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP) in Sweetwater County for a routine traffic stop. After the vehicle pulled over, the two passengers quickly exited the vehicle and began aggressively checking the tires and could not give a definitive answer as to their travel plans. During questioning, Urrea admitted he thought there was something illegal in a backpack that the trooper observed in the car. The trooper asked permission to search the vehicle, which resulted in law enforcement finding a large amount of methamphetamine, totaling 2,331.8 grams (approximately 5 pounds) inside the backpack. Urrea said he was paid $3,000 to deliver the backpack to unknown persons in another state. Vera-Sandoval was aware that the reason for the trip was to transport methamphetamine and law enforcement discovered he was in the United States illegally. Both defendants were taken into custody.
Special agents with the Division of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) further questioned the defendants and gathered enough evidence through their phones, dash cam footage, and their own admissions to charge them with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
“We know the interstate system is widely used by traffickers,” said Criminal Chief Nicole Romine. “That is why state agencies and local law enforcement in communities along the interstates, along with federal partners, work collectively to pursue and prosecute this type of criminal conduct. Simply put, we will not tolerate the use of our interstate system to transport drugs to or through the State of Wyoming.”
“On behalf of the DEA I’d like to commend the sharp eye of the Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers who made this significant seizure,” said Deanne Reuter, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Denver Field Division. “Officers like these are the real force multiplier when combating the trafficking of these dangerous drugs.”
This crime was investigated by the WHP, DCI, and DEA. The drug-related charges were prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie I. Sprecher and the illegal immigration charges were prosecuted by Jonathan Coppom.
Thursday 17 June 2021
Winchester Woman Pleads Guilty to Distributing Acetyl Fentanyl and FentanylRead the Press Release
HARRISONBURG, Va. – A Winchester woman pleaded guilty today to distributing acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl in February 2019.
According to court documents, Jennifer Lynn Heishman, 37, of Winchester, Virginia, contacted an individual on February 23, 2019, to arrange a purchase of heroin. Later that evening, Heishman paid $100 for two foil packets of drugs, using money provided by her boyfriend. Heishman then brought the drugs into the residence, distributed them to her boyfriend, and they ingested the drugs.
The next day, February 24, 2019, a piece of foil containing a grayish colored power was recovered from Heishman’s residence. The foil packet was one of the two packets of drugs Heishman distributed the previous day and tested positive for fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl.
Heishman pleaded guilty to knowingly and intentionally distributing a mixture or substance containing acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl. She is scheduled to be sentenced on October 22, 2021 and faces a period of incarceration within the range of 72 to 132 months.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar of the Western District of Virginia and Jared Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Winchester Police Department, and Northwest Virginia Drug and Gang Task Force are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lena Busscher and Randy Ramseyer are prosecuting the case.
Wichita Man Sentenced to 210 Months for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Wichita man was sentenced to 210 months in prison after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, a Class A Felony.
According to court documents, Michael A. Arjona, 40, admitted that over several months in 2018 he conspired with other individuals to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. Arjona confessed to a plan to sell the methamphetamine to customers in the Wichita, Kansas area.
Three other people entered guilty pleas to charges related to the drug trafficking ring that Arjona ran. Nicholas Brandt, 21, of Wichita was sentenced to 96 months after pleading guilty to Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate a Drug Offense. Cody J. Cobal, 25, of Wichita pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Matthew A. McMillan, 20, pleaded guilty to Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate a Drug Offense. Cobal and McMillan are awaiting sentencing.
The Wichita Police Department, Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Department and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Andrusak prosecuted the case.
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Waterville Man Sentenced to 15 Years on Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Waterville man was sentenced today in federal court for three drug-related offenses, including conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Donald E. Clark announced.
U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. sentenced Rodney Lacroix, 32, to 15 years in prison and 10 years of supervised release. Lacroix pleaded guilty in December 2020.
According to court records, Lacroix distributed fentanyl in Kennebec County between May 2017 and October 2018. Lacroix obtained fentanyl from out-of-state sources and used a network of distributors to sell more than 400 grams of the drug.
Lacroix was subject to enhanced penalties because of his 2013 federal conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone and cocaine.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case, with assistance provided by the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, the Waterville Police Department and the Maine State Police.
United States Attorney's Office District of Arizona May 2021 Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
I. Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
281 individuals were charged in May with illegal reentry
A. 230 of those 281 individuals had previously been convicted of non-immigration criminal offenses in the U.S.
Of the 230 individuals with non-immigration criminal records:
1. 56 had violent crime convictions, including:
3 individuals had homicide convictions
7 individuals had sex offense convictions
14 individuals had domestic violence convictions2. 19 had property crime convictions
3. 45 had DUI convictions
4. 123 had drug crime convictions
B. 149 of those 281 individuals had been deported three or more times
II. Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
41 individuals were charged in May with alien smuggling
III. Illegal Entry (Criminal Consequence Initiative) (8 U.S.C. 1325)
0 individuals were charged in May with illegal entry on the CCI calendar
Criminal conviction information is based on preliminary criminal history reports provided by the arresting agency.
These numbers represent United States Attorney's Office prosecutions only. These numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
*The Department of Homeland Security instituted a policy in March 2020 of expeditiously returning aliens who illegally enter the United States rather than detaining them. The decreased number of individuals presented to this Office for prosecution coincides with the implementation of that policy and other COVID-19 related border restrictions.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2021-039_May Immigration and Border Crimes Report
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two men were sentenced to prison today for federal gun crimes.
Jonathan Fields, 38, of Fayette County was sentenced to 78 months in prison for being a felon in possession of firearms. According to court documents, Fields admitted that during the early morning hours of November 6 and 7, 2019, he was illegally hunting deer in Nicholas County and shot two deer without a license and out of season. While doing so, he possessed two rifles: a Bushmaster Firearms 5.56 caliber rifle with a 30-round capacity magazine; and a Remington .243 caliber rifle. On November 12, 2019, Fields left the two firearms at the home of a friend in Summersville where they were later recovered by law enforcement officers with the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Fields admitted that he knew he had a 2013 felony conviction in Nicholas County Circuit Court for voluntary manslaughter and was prohibited from possessing the firearms. The West Virginia DNR conducted the investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Nowles Heinrich handled the prosecution.
Derrick Clark, 30, of Greensboro, North Carolina, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for being a felon in possession of firearms. According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, Clark admitted that on April 13, 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at his Cross Lanes residence and found three handguns: a semi-automatic 9mm Taurus; a .32 caliber semi-automatic Savage; and a 9mm semi-automatic C9 Highpoint. Officers also located assorted ammunition inside Clark’s residence. Clark admitted that he knew he had a 2013 conviction in Kanawha County Circuit Court for fleeing in a vehicle with reckless indifference to the safety of others and was prohibited from possessing the firearms. The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Alexander Hamner handled the prosecution.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the West Virginia DNR, the ATF, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA.
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 Nos. 2:20-cr-00128 (Fields) and 2:18-cr-00103(Clark).
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Two Kentucky Men Who Led Buffalo Police on A Chase Arrested on Carjacking and Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Jeylani Bakari, 22, and Aweys Hussein, 20, both of Louisville, KY, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with carjacking and brandishing firearms in furtherance of a crime of violence. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $250,000.
“The defendants’ brazen and dangerous armed conduct as alleged in the criminal complaint reflects a growing disregard for both the consequences of one’s actions and the rule of law spreading throughout our cities and manifesting itself in increased violence,” noted U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “Therefore, it seems particularly fitting that their travels ultimately landed these defendants at one location at which personal accountability and respect for the rule of law still offer meaningful direction—in federal court facing criminal prosecution.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremiah E. Lenihan, who is handling the case, stated that in the early morning hours of June 11, 2021, the Buffalo Police Department received a 911 call of a carjacking that had occurred in the 200 block of Woltz Avenue. At that time, two victims were sitting inside of a Dodge Charger. Three males approached the vehicle with firearms. One approached the passenger side with a Glock firearm and told Victim 1 to get out of the vehicle and “Give me the money, give me the keys, or you're going to die, (expletive).” Victim 2 was taken out of the vehicle, pushed to the ground, and another male went through Victim 2’s pockets. The 3 males then fled the scene in the Dodge Charger.
Approximately 15 minutes after the carjacking, patrol units observed the Dodge Charger in the area of Moselle and East Ferry Streets. As officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the vehicle led the marked units on a chase for approximately four miles. The Dodge Charger then crashed near the comer of Elmwood Avenue and Niagara Street. Inside the vehicle, officers located the defendants Bakari and Hussein, as well as a male juvenile.
During a search of the vehicle, officers recovered three firearms and ammunition. Defendant Bakari had a backpack containing 17 suspected Xanax bars, 18 bags containing a crystal¬like substance, 27 suspected Ecstasy pills, an unknown black substance, eight vaping cartridges, and a bag of suspected marijuana.
The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Buffalo Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney John Flynn.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Two Former Tennessee Correctional Officers Sentenced for Civil Rights OffensesRead the Press Release
Two former Tennessee Department of Corrections (TDOC) Correctional Officers were sentenced today for assaulting an inmate in violation of a federal civil rights statute.
Nathaniel Griffin, 31, and Tanner Penwell, 24, were both sentenced to a year and a day in prison plus three years of supervised release. These are the final sentencings arising out of a staff assault of an inmate inside a cell in the Mental Health Unit at the Northwest Correctional Complex in Tiptonville, Tennessee. Four other former officers previously pleaded guilty in this case and were sentenced in federal court.
“When correctional officers abuse their authority, they erode the public’s trust in law enforcement and that is unacceptable,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “No correctional officer is above the law and the Justice Department will not tolerate any civil rights violations. We are committed to ensuring all correctional officers keep federal prisons safe and secure and that they carry out their duties with the utmost integrity.”
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee will continue to prioritize the criminal prosecution of public employees who violate the civil rights of others,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph C. Murphy Jr. for the Western District of Tennessee. “Our goal is to ensure that everyone – no matter who they are or their standing in the community – is treated in accordance with the requirements of the US Constitution by public officials.”
“When correctional officers abuse their authority and harm inmates, it not only violates our civil rights laws, it undermines the criminal justice system as a whole,” said Special Agent in Charge Douglas M. Korneski of the FBI Memphis Field Office. “These sentences should send a clear message that the FBI makes it a priority to bring to justice any law enforcement officer who violates the civil rights of those they are sworn to protect.”
In 2019, Griffin and Penwell both pleaded guilty using unlawful force while acting under color of law. In connection with their guilty pleas, Griffin and Penwell admitted that they punched the inmate, identified in the charging documents by the initials R.T., after he had already been beaten by another officer. They further admitted that they punched R.T. even though he never posed a threat to them or the other correctional officers. In total, R.T. was punched more than 30 times by officers. All three officers who assaulted R.T. ultimately pleaded guilty to a federal civil rights offense.
This case was investigated by the Memphis Field Office of the FBI with the support of the TDOC, and was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Rebekah J. Bailey of the Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Pritchard of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee.
Two Former Tennessee Correctional Officers Sentenced for Civil Rights OffensesRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Two former Tennessee Department of Corrections (TDOC) Correctional Officers were sentenced today for assaulting an inmate in violation of a federal civil rights statute.
Nathaniel Griffin, 31, and Tanner Powell, 24, were both sentenced to a year and a day in prison plus three years of supervised release. These are the final sentencings arising out of a staff assault of an inmate inside a cell in the Mental Health Unit at the Northwest Correctional Complex in Tiptonville, Tennessee. Four other former officers previously pleaded guilty in this case and were sentenced in federal court.
"When correctional officers abuse their authority, they erode the public’s trust in law enforcement and that is unacceptable," said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. "No correctional officer is above the law and the Justice Department will not tolerate any civil rights violations. We are committed to ensuring all correctional officers keep federal prisons safe and secure and that they carry out their duties with the utmost integrity."
"The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee will continue to prioritize the criminal prosecution of public employees who violate the civil rights of others," said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph C. Murphy Jr. for the Western District of Tennessee. "Our goal is to ensure that everyone – no matter who they are or standing in the community – is treated in accordance with the requirements of the US Constitution by public officials."
"When correctional officers abuse their authority and harm inmates, it not only violates our civil rights laws, it undermines the criminal justice system as a whole," said Special Agent in Charge Douglas M. Korneski of the FBI Memphis Field Office. "These sentences
should send a clear message that the FBI makes it a priority to bring to justice any law enforcement officer who violates the civil rights of those they are sworn to protect."
In 2019, Griffin and Powell both pleaded guilty using unlawful force while acting under color of law. In connection with their guilty pleas, Griffin and Powell admitted that they punched the inmate, identified in the charging documents by initials R.T., after he had already been beaten by another officer. They further admitted that they punched R.T. even though he never posed a threat to them or the other correctional officers. In total, R.T. was punched more than 30 times by officers. All three officers who assaulted R.T. ultimately pleaded guilty to a federal civil rights offense.
This case was investigated by the Memphis Field Office of the FBI with the support of the TDOC, and was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Rebekah J. Bailey of the Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Pritchard of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee.
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Two Career Criminals Arrested for Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two career criminals still on supervised release on previous federal convictions were indicted by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking charges.
Ozair Pereira, 33, of Brockton, and Robert Roscoe, 30, of Boston and Attleboro, were each charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and one count of distribution of fentanyl. Following an initial appearance today before U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge M. Page Kelley, Pereira and Roscoe were detained pending detention hearings scheduled for June 25, 2021 and June 21, 2021, respectively.
According to the indictment, on four occasions in February and March 2021, Pereira and Roscoe conspired with others to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl. At the time of their involvement in the fentanyl trafficking, Pereira and Roscoe were each on supervised release for separate federal convictions.
In October 2018, Pereira was sentenced to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute heroin. At the time of his sentencing, Pereira had two previous convictions for unlawful possession of a firearm.
In December 2019, Roscoe was sentenced to 27 months in prison and three years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. At the time of his sentencing, Roscoe had previously been convicted of armed robbery, unlawful possession of a firearm, and assault and battery on a police officer.
Due to Pereira’s previous federal drug trafficking conviction, on the charge of conspiracy to distribute 40 grams of fentanyl, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least eight years of supervised release and a fine of up to $8 million. On the charge of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl, Roscoe faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Boston Division; Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Brockton Police Chief Emanuel C. Gomes; and New Bedford Police Chief Joseph C. Cordeiro made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Pohl of Mendell’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tulsa Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual Contact with a MinorRead the Press Release
A Tulsa man was sentenced today in federal court for sexually abusing a minor, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Claire V. Eagan sentenced Oscar Manuel Cabrera-Westerheidy, 37, of Tulsa, to 11 years in federal prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release for abusive sexual contact with a minor under 12 years of age in Indian Country and abusive sexual contact with a minor between 12 and 16 years of age in Indian Country. The Court further recommended he receive drug abuse and sex offender treatment while in prison.
Cabrera-Westerheidy admitted that from January 2011 through August 2020, he sexually abused a child. The victim disclosed the abuse to a parent out of concern that the defendant was caring for other children.
The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chantelle D. Dial prosecuted the case. Ms.Dial is a prosecutor from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Washington. She volunteered to assist prosecution efforts here in the Northern District of Oklahoma due to increased jurisdictional responsibilities regarding crimes involving Native American victims or defendants and that occur within the Muscogee Nation and Cherokee Nation Reservations.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources
Todd County Man Indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, and Related OffensesRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor, Assault With a Dangerous Weapon Against a Minor, Sexual Abuse of a Minor, Commission of a Sex Offense Against a Minor While Required to Register as a Sex Offender, Commission of a Crime of Violence While Failing to Register as a Sex Offender, and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Alton Bear Heels, age 29, was indicted on June 8, 2021. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 11, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between on or about April 4, 2021, and on or about April 5, 2021, in Todd County, Bear Heels knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with a minor who had attained the age of 12 years but had not attained the age of 16 years by the use of force and by threat of death and serious bodily injury. The indictment also alleges that between on or about April 3, 2021, and April 5, 2021, Bear Heels assaulted the minor with dangerous weapons, specifically a metal bar, a knife, a collapsible baton, and a bat, with the intent to bodily harm.
The indictment further alleges that, at the time of the above described conduct, Bear Heels was a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act by virtue of a conviction under Indian tribal law, and that he knowingly failed to register and update his registration.
The charges are merely accusations and Bear Heels is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Bear Heels was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Todd County Man Indicted for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Dennis Holmes announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child.
Conrad Good Voice, Jr., age 26, was indicted on June 8, 2021. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 11, 2021, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between on or about March 1, 2019, and March 1, 2021, in Todd County, Good Voice knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, a sexual act with two children under the age of 12.
The charges are merely accusations and Good Voice is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Good Voice was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Texas Man Admits Defrauding Business Opportunity Buyers of More Than $5 MillionRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Texas man today admitted defrauding victims of more than $5 million in connection with the sale of medical-related business opportunities, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
David Weinstein, 62, formerly of Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and now of Dallas, Texas, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Robert B. Kugler to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of money laundering.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From December 2015 through November 2020, Weinstein and his conspirators, Vijay Reddy and Kevin Brown, advertised business opportunities for sale on various websites. They purported to sell “blocks” of contracts with medical providers who allegedly wanted to outsource their medical billing, collections, appeals, answering, credentialing, or transcription functions. The buyers would then provide the contracted services to the medical providers and earn a profit. The conspirators promised to deliver a specified number of providers and pledged that their proprietary marketing efforts would provide a guaranteed client base to the buyers.
To induce buyers to purchase the business opportunities, the conspirators created fake references purporting to be buyers who vouched for their prior business purchases from the conspirators. In fact, the references were Weinstein, Reddy, and their friends and family members, and they used aliases and disguised phone numbers to speak with potential buyers.
After agreeing to purchase the blocks of medical providers, victims entered contracts with companies represented by Weinstein or Reddy and wired down payments ranging from $15,000 to $240,000 to accounts controlled by Weinstein or Brown. The remainder of each purchase price was payable when the conspirators fulfilled the contract by delivering the agreed-upon number of providers.
After receiving the down payments, Weinstein and Reddy typically delivered to each victim only a small number of medical providers. Despite not fulfilling the contracts of any of the buyers identified by law enforcement, the conspirators continued to sell blocks of medical providers to new buyers and refused to provide refunds for their failures to satisfy the terms of the contracts. The conspirators also periodically sold batches of previously signed contracts and disclaimed further responsibility for those contracts to insulate themselves from complaints or legal action from disgruntled buyers.
Brown acted as the business broker for most of the transactions and received a commission for the sales he brokered. Weinstein or Reddy acted as the seller and signed the contracts with the victims. At least 77 victims sent more than $5 million to accounts controlled by the conspirators. The conspirators spent the victims’ money on personal expenses, including a travel, jewelry, real estate, a wedding, a college education, and other business investments.
The wire fraud conspiracy count is punishable by a maximum of 20 years in prison, and the money laundering count is punishable by a maximum of 10 years in prison. In addition, both counts are punishable by a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greater. As part of his plea agreement, Weinstein agreed to make restitution in excess of $5 million. Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 25, 2021.
Reddy pleaded guilty on June 9, 2021, to his role in the scheme.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the FBI’s South Jersey Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Driscoll in Philadelphia; special agents of IRS - Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Montanez in Newark; and postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Damon Wood in Philadelphia, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel A. Friedman and Diana Vondra Carrig of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
The charge and allegations in the criminal complaint against Brown are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Syracuse Man Indicted for Assaulting a U.S. Postal EmployeeRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Javon Mayo, age 29, of Syracuse, was arraigned today on an indictment charging him with assaulting a United States Postal Service employee, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Joshua McCallister, Acting Postal Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
The indictment charges that on December 24, 2020, Mayo struck a letter carrier in the face while the carrier was performing his official duties, and injured the carrier as a result. Mayo is detained pending a detention hearing scheduled before United States Magistrate Judge Thérèse Wiley Dancks on June 22.
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
If convicted of the charges set forth in the indictment, Mayo faces up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release. 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.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Syracuse Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Sutcliffe.