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Wednesday 12 May 2021
Berkeley County man admits to role in drug conspiracyRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Medo Hallack, of Inwood, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a drug conspiracy that spanned several states, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
Hallack, 32, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Hallack admitted to working with another to sell cocaine hydrochloride, also known as “coke,” in August and September 2019 in Berkeley County.
Hallack faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
This case is the result of investigations supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) under the Attorney General-led Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS)/Special Operations Division (SOD) Project Clean Sweep. This initiative seeks to reduce the supply of synthetic opioids in “hot spot” areas previously identified by the Attorney General of the United States, thereby reducing drug overdoses and drug overdose deaths, and identify wholesale distribution networks and sources of supply operating nationally and internationally.
OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; and the Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.Related case here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/25-charged-six-state-drug-conspiracy-involving-heroin-fentanyl-cocaine
Beaverton Man Indicted in Streaming Service Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal grand jury in Portland has returned an indictment charging a Beaverton, Oregon, man for his role in a scheme to steal and resell customer account credentials for popular internet streaming services including Netflix, HBO Max, and Spotify Premium.
Samuel Joyner, 30, has been charged with conspiracy to commit computer and access device fraud, trafficking and use of unauthorized access devices, and possession of fifteen or more unauthorized access devices.
“I applaud the thorough investigative effort and international law enforcement coordination resulting in these charges and today’s arrest of Mr. Joyner. Hacking and access device fraud are serious crimes that significantly impact companies large and small. Our office will continue to prioritize these and other internet crimes,” said Scott Erik Asphaug, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
“Cyber crime shows how small of a world we live in these days. The subjects and the victims can live next door or half a world away. In this instance, FBI agents in Omaha, Nebraska, launched an investigation that would stretch all the way to Australia and back to Oregon. Without their hard work, we wouldn't have this successful arrest today,” said Kieran L. Ramsey, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon. “As for consumers - this is a good reminder to check your accounts and change passwords to unique and complex passphrases.”
“This investigation spanned across the Pacific to our shores in Australia, showing that while crimes may be borderless, our law enforcement response is united across countries. Following a referral of information from our FBI law enforcement partners, the Australian Federal Police arrested, charged and secured a conviction against a Sydney man, and we also seized more than a million dollars’ worth of cryptocurrency assets which were the proceeds of his crime,” Australian Federal Police cybercrime operations case officer Joanna Kondos said. “Cybercrime is not a victimless crime – this case uncovered stolen account details from millions of people around the world, and we work to investigate these crimes on behalf of those who have had their personal details scammed for someone else’s profit.”
According to the indictment, between February 2018 and March 2019, Joyner and an accomplice, Evan McMahon, 23, of Sydney, Australia, conspired with one another to create and operate an online service called AccountBot. AccountBot offered a paid subscription service where customers could obtain account credentials to access popular internet streaming services at a greatly reduced rate.
Joyner and McMahon illegally acquired usernames and passwords to the various streaming services through credential stuffing attacks, a computer hacking technique where individuals obtain large sets of account credentials, often made available as a result of large data breaches, and, using an automated tool, repeatedly enter credentials into a website or internet-based service to verify their authenticity. Verified credentials obtained via credential stuffing can then be used to access online user accounts without authorization.
AccountBot customers paid a fee, ranging from $1.79 to $24.99, depending on the type of service and access duration needed. These customers paid Joyner and McMahon in fiat or cryptocurrency. Joyner and McMahon were equal partners of AccountBot, but fulfilled distinct tasks. McMahon was primarily responsible for drafting computer code for the service’s website and managing customer payments. Joyner acquired the majority of stolen user credentials and was responsible for AccountBot customer service.
By March 2019, AccountBot purported to have over 52,000 different registered customers and more than 217,000 unique sets of stolen account credentials.
Joyner was arrested without incident today by the FBI and made his initial appearance in federal court before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and released pending a five-day jury trial scheduled to begin on July 13, 2021.
Conspiracy to commit computer and access device fraud is punishable by up to five years in federal prison. Trafficking and use of unauthorized access devices and possession of fifteen or more unauthorized access devices are each punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison.
McMahon was prosecuted for similar offenses in the District Court of New South Wales in Sydney. In April 2021, he was sentenced to two years and two months to be served by way of intensive corrections order, the most serious, non-custodial sentence imposed in New South Wales.
Acting U.S. Attorney Asphaug and Special Agent in Charge Ramsey made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI and Australian Federal Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Quinn P. Harrington is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Malicious cyber activity threatens the public’s safety and our national and economic security. The FBI is the lead federal agency for investigating cyber attacks and intrusions, collecting and sharing intelligence and engaging with victims while working to unmask those committing malicious cyber activities, wherever they are. Learn more about what you can do to protect yourself from cyber criminals, how you can report cyber crime, and the FBI’s efforts in combating the evolving cyber threat.
Auburn Man Pleads Guilty to Destroying Computer Monitor at Syracuse VA Medical CenterRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Joey F. Edgbert, 59, of Auburn, New York pled guilty today to damaging government property at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Syracuse, New York, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Lauren S. Seburn, Chief of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Police in Syracuse.
As part of his guilty plea today, Joey F. Edgbert admitted that he struck with his hand and destroyed a 17-inch computer monitor on November 23, 2020, while he was at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Syracuse receiving treatment.
At sentencing Edgbert faces up to one-year in prison, a fine of up to $100,000, and a term of probation of up to five years. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. 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 was investigated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Police-Syracuse, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Southwick.
Alleged Drug Cartel Leader ChargedRead the Press Release
Director of Media Relations Kelly Thornton (619) 546-9726
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – May 12, 2021
SAN DIEGO – A federal grand jury indictment was unsealed in San Diego today against alleged Mexican drug cartel leader Jesus Gonzalez Penuelas in connection with suspected heroin and fentanyl trafficking. Penuelas was also the target of sanctions imposed today by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
The indictment, returned on January 27, 2017, charges Gonzalez Penuelas with Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances Intended for Importation, and Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances. On January 30, 2017, the Clerk of the Court issued a sealed warrant for his arrest. Gonzalez Penuelas remains a fugitive.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) identified Jesus Gonzalez Penuelas and the Gonzalez Penuelas Drug Trafficking Organization (Gonzalez Penuelas DTO) as Significant Foreign Narcotics Traffickers pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (Kingpin Act). Please see https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0172.
Gonzalez Penuelas is the alleged leader of the Gonzalez Penuelas DTO, which is one of the largest raw opium gum and heroin sources of supply in northern Mexico, and increasingly a major distributor of fentanyl. The Gonzalez Penuelas DTO operates primarily in Sinaloa and Sonora, Mexico, various ports of entry in the United States, as well as numerous U.S.-based distribution cells in California, Texas, Colorado, Washington, Utah, and Nevada. The upper echelons of the Gonzalez Penuelas DTO hierarchy consist of Jesus Gonzalez Penuelas’ family members. The Gonzalez Penuelas DTO cooperates with other DTOs within Mexico, to include acting as an enforcement arm for the various Mexican DTO’s trafficking routes and is aligned with Mexican drug traffickers Fausto Isidro Meza Flores and Rafael Caro Quintero. The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Asset Control designated Fausto Isidro Meza Flores in January 2013 for his role in narcotics trafficking. The President identified Rafael Caro Quintero as a significant foreign narcotics trafficker pursuant to the Kingpin Act in 2000.
“This indictment and the Treasury Department sanctions announced today show that the Department of Justice, together with our law enforcement partners, will aggressively investigate and prosecute the most significant cartels and kingpins who import illegal drugs into the United States,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Randy S. Grossman. Grossman praised Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. Sutton, HSI and DEA agents and all law enforcement partners for their excellent work on this case.
“This important Kingpin designation is an example of the effectiveness of our local and national law enforcement partnerships to help bring justice to drug smuggling organizations who benefit the most from smuggling dangerous drugs across the border,” said Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in San Diego, CA. “The nation’s opioid epidemic continues affect our local communities and our agents are working tirelessly with our partners to disrupt the flow of these and all illegal narcotics.”
“DEA and our law enforcement partners continue to target organizations that are fueling the American opioid epidemic,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge John W. Callery. “The indictment and the Department of Treasury sanctions against Jesus Gonzalez Penuelas serve as a warning to others causing the deaths of Americans through drug trafficking: we will utilize every resource available to disrupt your drug trafficking organization and bring you to justice.”
The indictment in this case marks the conclusion of the initial phase of a multi-year OCDETF investigation. This joint Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation targeted the leadership elements, lieutenants, associates, and money launderers connected with the Rafael Caro-Quintero DTO and Beltran Leyva Organization.
Acting U.S. Attorney Grossman also praised the outstanding work of the federal team from HSI Calexico / DEA Imperial County in the culmination of this investigation. Acting U.S. Attorney Grossman also thanked Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Enforcement Operations and the Office of International Affairs, and the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control for their ongoing assistance in this investigation.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The government’s case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. Sutton.
DEFENDANT Case Number: 17CR00217-CAB
Jesus Gonzalez Penuelas, aka Chuy Gonzalez Age: 51 Sinaloa, Mexico
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances for Purpose of Unlawful Importation, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 959, 960 and 963; Term of custody including a mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life imprisonment, $10 million fine and 5 years supervised release.
Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 952, 960 and 963. Term of custody including a mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life imprisonment, $10 million fine and 5 years supervised release.
AGENCIES
Homeland Security Investigations
Drug Enforcement Administration
Department of Homeland Security, Joint Task Force – Investigations
Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations
United States Marshals Service
Department of Justice, Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces
Department of Justice, Office of Enforcement Operations
Department of Justice, Office of International Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado
United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon
Department of Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control
Customs and Border Protection, Office of Border Patrol
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations
El Centro Police Department
Brawley Police Department
Imperial County District Attorney’s Office
Imperial Valley, Law Enforcement Coordination Center
*An indictment or complaint is not evidence that the defendant committed the crimes charged. The defendant is presumed innocent until the Government meets its burden in court of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Alexandria Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. - Derrick Dwayne Thomas, 46, of Alexandria, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Dee D. Drell to 63 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, on drug trafficking charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook.
On May 6, 2020, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Thomas with possession with intent to distribute heroin and distribution of controlled substances. Thomas appeared in United States District Court on January 8, 2021 and pleaded guilty to the charge of possession with intent to distribute heroin. Evidence at the guilty plea hearing revealed that on January 31, 2020, law enforcement officers in Alexandria, Louisiana executed a search warrant for property on Brooks Boulevard in Alexandria where Thomas resided, as well as Thomas’ vehicle.
A search of Thomas’ vehicle revealed five cellular telephones located near the driver’s seat. During the search of the residence, officers found numerous prescription bottles, which were not prescribed to Thomas or any residents of the home, as well as large sums of cash. Officers also found a lockable Tupperware container inside a small ice chest in a closet and inside the container was a plastic bag containing a brown powder, suspected to be heroin. Thomas admitted to purchasing the heroin which was later tested by a laboratory and confirmed to be heroin with an approximate weight of 477.30 grams.
The FBI, Louisiana State Police, and Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel prosecuted the case.
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Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
"This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation," said Attorney General Garland. "I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude."
"Police officers," said Acting United States Attorney Murphy, "are our Nation’s first line of defense when it comes to the safety of our local communities. We should always remember that when an emergency arises, police officers are usually among the first people we call and the first people to arrive on the scene to provide assistance. Our community is safer because of their efforts."
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19. Here in the Western District of Tennessee, three officers died in the line of duty.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 PM EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to October 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for October 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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Acting U.S. Attorney Fred J. Federici Recognizes the Efforts and Sacrifice of Law Enforcement during National Police WeekRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Fred J. Federici recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9, through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said Attorney General Garland. “I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude.”
“During National Police Week, our Nation stands to honor all fallen officers who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty to ensure the safety of communities throughout our country,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Fred J. Federici. “This is a time to celebrate and recognize the brave men and women of law enforcement who put themselves at risk each day in the service of their communities. For their hard work, dedication and service, we salute them.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the FBI through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 p.m. EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to Oct. 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for Oct. 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
33 Defendants Face Child Pornography and Enticement Charges as a Result of Operation Clean SweepRead the Press Release
Acting U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of Operation Clean Sweep, a four-month long operation initiated to protect children from falling victim to predators living within the Northern District of Oklahoma. The operation was carried out in partnership with more than a dozen local, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.
Operation Clean Sweep netted 33 alleged child predators in 10 of the 11 counties in the Northern District of Oklahoma. Twelve of those defendants have pleaded guilty thus far in federal court. The operation further identified and/or rescued 12 child victims during the investigation.
“Operation Clean Sweep was a joint law enforcement investigation designed to help counteract the spike in internet facilitated child-exploitation crimes, in part fueled by the COVID-19 crisis,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “The operation concentrated resources and personnel to identify and help victims of child sex abuse and hold accountable those who exploit them. I appreciate our law enforcement partners who identified these 33 alleged predators of children and brought them forward for federal prosecution.”
With the onset of COVID-19 lockdowns during 2020, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received more than 65 million child pornography files in nearly 22 million CyberTipline reports- the highest numbers ever recorded and a 28% increase from 2019.
NCMEC’s CyberTipline is the nation’s centralized reporting system for the online exploitation of children. The public and electronic service providers can make reports of suspected online enticement of children for sexual acts, extra-familial child sexual molestation, child pornography, child sex tourism, child sex trafficking, unsolicited obscene materials sent to a child, misleading domain names, and misleading words or digital images on the internet.
As Oklahoma’s jurisdictional landscape has evolved in the last year, continuing strong partnerships among all law enforcement and victims’ services agencies is critical to ensuring the public’s safety. Most of the Northern District lies within the Cherokee and Muscogee Nations’ reservations. The federal government’s ability to prosecute a variety of child exploitation cases has expanded as well as the number of cases. Fourteen of the 33 cases being prosecuted as part of Operation Clean Sweep fall within Indian Country jurisdiction.
Operation Clean Sweep is led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar with support from Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Snow. Law enforcement agencies taking part in the operation are U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, Tulsa Police Department, Bristow Police Department, Broken Arrow Police Department, Owasso Police Department, Sand Springs Police Department, Jenks Police Department, Rogers Country Sheriff’s Office, Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Police Department, and the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service.
The Operation is part of the Justice Department’s Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Tuesday 11 May 2021
Worcester Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Worcester man pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Nicholas Briggs, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman scheduled sentencing for Aug. 30, 2021. Briggs was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2020.
On July 4, 2020, Briggs was arrested by police for carrying a loaded Glock pistol. Briggs is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior convictions punishable by more than one year in prison.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $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 Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Worcester Police Chief Steven M. Sargent made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial E. Bennett of Mendell’s Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and 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.
Washington, PA Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing 1000’s of Videos and Images of Child Sex AbuseRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A former resident of Washington, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 97 months’ incarceration followed by ten years of supervised release on his conviction of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today. United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines imposed the sentence on Jon DeTemple, age 33.
As part of his sentence, the Court ordered DeTemple to pay restitution to all identified victims of his offense. The Court ordered restitution in the amount of $45,000 and stated that a hearing will be set to address an additional restitution request. Judge Haines further ordered DeTemple to pay a $5,000 special assessment under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) of 2015, and a $5,000 special assessment under the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act (AVAA) of 2018.
According to information presented to the Court, on October 23, 2019, DeTemple possessed thousands of images and videos of child sexual abuse material (child pornography) which he admitted to obtaining by utilizing a peer-to-peer file sharing network. At sentencing, Judge Haines heard from a victim of DeTemple’s crime. In imposing sentence, Judge Haines acknowledged the long-term impact of DeTemple’s offense on his victims and stated that the magnitude of DeTemple’s crime could not be ignored by the Court.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the North Strabane Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of DeTemple.
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.justice.gov/psc.
U.S. Attorney’s Office in EDVA Commemorates National Police WeekRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Raj Parekh joins Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said Attorney General Garland. “I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude.”
“The Eastern District of Virginia expresses its deep appreciation to the courageous women and men of law enforcement who serve on the front lines and put themselves in harm’s way to protect us and our loved ones, repeatedly sacrificing their safety to ensure ours,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Parekh. “The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted pain, heartache, and tragedy on so many, including members of law enforcement and their families. We mourn for and pay our respects to those who lost their lives in the line of duty, offer our condolences to their families, and express our gratitude to those who carry on their legacy with honor and valor each day.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19. Here in the Eastern District of Virginia, four law enforcement officers died in the line of duty and were added to the 2021 Roll Call of Heroes: Officer Katherine Mary Thyne of the Newport News Police Department, Master-at-Arms Oscar J. Temores of the U.S. Navy Security Forces, Major Angelanette Moore of the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail, and Master Jail Officer Robert Charles Sunukjian of the Hampton Roads Regional Jail.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 p.m. EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to Oct. 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for Oct. 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
U.S. Attorney's Office Recognizes National Police Week, May 9-15, 2021Read the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.— In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said Attorney General Garland. “I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude.”
“National Police Week is a time-honored tradition that affords all Americans the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of law enforcement officers across the country. It also gives us the opportunity to reflect on the tremendous personal sacrifice made by officers and their families every day to keep our communities safe,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Asphaug. “I am personally very thankful for our law enforcement officers here in Oregon for their continued partnership with our office. We could not do the work we do without your steadfast dedication and service.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 PM EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to October 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for October 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF
The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude.”
“During Police Week, we honor the brave men and women in law enforcement for their selfless sacrifice to protect the citizens of the Northern District of Alabama, especially the six officers in our district who gave their lives in the line of duty,” said U.S. Attorney Escalona. “I extend my sincere thanks and gratitude for your courage and dedication.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19. Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to October 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for October 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney Ashley C. Hoff Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Ashley C. Hoff recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude.”
“On behalf of the entire staff of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas, I express our deep respect and sincere gratitude for law enforcement officers. Every day, they put their lives on the line to keep us safe. We honor our officers this week, and always, for their service, courage, and dedication. We especially remember those fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” said U.S. Attorney Hoff.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19. Here in the Western District of Texas, eight officers died in the line of duty in 2020.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial in 2020 will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 p.m. EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to October 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for October 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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Two sentenced after law enforcement uncovers illegal aliens in 100 degree trailerRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 28-year-old Laredoan has been ordered to federal prison for conspiring to transport illegal aliens, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Jose Maria Ramirez pleaded guilty Nov. 24, 2020, while co-conspirator Eloy Martinez-Carranza entered a guilty plea Dec. 8, 2020.
Today, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo ordered Ramirez to serve a 57-month sentence to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted how Ramirez has repeatedly broken the law and has had his supervised release revoked multiple times. Judge Marmolejo further explained there was sufficient evidence to show he was heavily involved in the conspiracy and was correctly held accountable for the aliens in the tractor-trailer as well as the stash house.
Martinez-Carranza, 35, of South Carolina, received his sentence April 30. Judge Marmolejo ordered him to 36 months in prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release.
On Oct. 1, 2020, Martinez-Carranza approached the US-83 Border Patrol checkpoint driving a semi-truck and trailer. Soon after his arrival, a K-9 alerted to the presence of contraband in the trailer.
Authorities cut the seal on the trailer and found 40 illegal aliens, including three unaccompanied minors. The inside temperature was approximately 109 degrees. Law enforcement also observed coffee grounds scattered around the trailer.
Martinez-Carranza claimed he was traveling to Laredo from South Carolina to work as a trucker. However, he did not have a commercial driver’s license or any training as such.
Upon further investigation, authorities identified a location suspected to be the stash house for the illegal aliens. Law enforcement conducted surveillance and stopped a vehicle leaving the house with Ramirez as the driver.
Authorities searched the home and found a total of 22 illegal aliens, including more unaccompanied minors.
Ramirez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Harrison prosecuted the case.
Two Pennsylvania Men Sentenced to Prison for Armed Bank Robbery in Salem CountyRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – Two Pennsylvania men who robbed a bank in Carneys Point, New Jersey, in July 2018 while brandishing a firearm were both sentenced today to federal prison, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
Antwaine Thomas, 41, of Philadelphia, was sentenced to 272 months in prison and Kareem Moore, 31, of North Wales, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 168 months in prison. Both previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Joseph H. Rodriguez to an indictment charging them with armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during a bank robbery. Judge Rodriguez imposed both sentences today in Camden federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On July 30, 2018, Thomas and Moore walked into the Fulton Bank in Carneys Point, Salem County. Thomas pointed a loaded handgun at four bank employees while demanding cash. Thomas then handed the handgun to Moore, and Moore also demanded cash while displaying the handgun in such a way that the bank employees could see it. Thomas and Moore took cash from the bank and fled. Responding officers arrived at the bank within minutes of the robbery, and after a brief foot pursuit across the street, they tackled and arrested Moore, who had a portion of the proceeds hidden inside of his pants. Thomas was arrested several hours later, and he was captured on surveillance video in a nearby residential area, disposing of the cash, gun, and his clothing.
In addition to the prison terms, Judge Rodriguez sentenced both Thomas and Moore to five years supervised release, and ordered them to each to pay $103,444 in restitution.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr. in Newark; the Salem County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Salem County Prosecutor John T. Lenahan; officers of the Carneys Point Police Department, under the direction of Chief Dale VanNamee; and officers of the Penns Grove Police Department, under the direction of Lt. Jason Spera, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencings.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen M. Harberg of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
Two Florida-based Defendants Plead Guilty to Methamphetamine-related ChargesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Two defendants pleaded guilty Monday to charges related to methamphetamine trafficking in California, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
Jonte Deon Scott, 25, of Port Richey, Florida, pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Donald Conferlete Carney Jr., 23, of Tarpon Springs, Florida, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, in September 2019, Scott and Carney traveled together from Florida to California. On Sept. 5, 2019, they traveled to Bakersfield to meet Fayth Shamariah Jones, 23, of Bakersfield. Carney, Scott, and Jones agreed together to transport approximately 25 kilograms of methamphetamine to the Sacramento area, using a rented GMC Suburban. In the early morning hours of Sept. 6, 2019, officers from the California Highway Patrol attempted to stop the Suburban. Instead of stopping, the driver—later determined to be Jones—began a high-speed chase, reaching speeds up to 120 miles per hour. After approximately 10 minutes the police cornered the vehicle at a cul-de-sac in the Merced County town of Planada.
This case is the product of an investigation by the California Highway Patrol, the Merced Area Gang/Narcotics Enforcement Team (MAGNET), Homeland Security Investigations, and the Merced District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael W. Redding is prosecuting the case.
Jones is currently scheduled for a jury trial on June 9. The charges against her are only allegations; she is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Scott and Carney are scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb on August 9. Both defendants face a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Troy Man Arrested on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Neeko Allen, age 29, of Troy, New York, was ordered detained today following his arrest last week on child pornography charges. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The criminal complaint against Allen, a registered sex offender, alleges that Allen distributed multiple images of child pornography over the internet. The charge in the criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The charge against Allen carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 40 years in prison, a post-release term of supervision of between 5 years and life, and a fine of up to $250,000.
Allen made his initial appearance on May 7 before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart. At a hearing conducted today, Judge Stewart ordered Allen detained pending trial.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, including the Rotterdam, Troy, and Colonie Police Departments and the New York State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Williams.
The case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Troy Man Arrested for Child Pornography PossessionRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Brian Pickett, age 40, of Troy, New York, was arrested last week on a child pornography charge. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Thomas Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The criminal complaint against Pickett, who is a registered sex offender, alleges that Pickett possessed multiple videos of child pornography on his electronic devices. The charge in the criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The charge against Pickett carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum of 20 years in prison, a post-release term of supervision of between 5 years and life, and a fine of up to $250,000.
Pickett made his initial appearance on May 7 before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart. He is detained pending a detention hearing on a future date.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, including the Rotterdam, Troy, and Colonie Police Departments and the New York State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Williams.
The case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Three Fort Campbell Soldiers Charged in Illegal Gun Pipeline to ChicagoRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE – Three Fort Campbell soldiers were charged today with conspiracy and offenses relating to the illegal purchase and transfer of dozens of firearms to the streets of Chicago, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Mary Jane Stewart for the Middle District of Tennessee.
Demarcus Adams, 21; Jarius Brunson, 22; and Brandon Miller, 22, all enlisted members of the U.S. Army and stationed at the Fort Campbell military installation in Clarksville, Tennessee, were arrested this morning by ATF agents and agents of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division. A criminal complaint obtained late yesterday charged each defendant with transferring a firearm to an out-of-state resident; making false statements during the purchase of a firearm; engaging in the business without a firearms license; wire fraud; money laundering; and conspiracy to commit Title 18 offenses.
According to the criminal complaint, this investigation began on March 26, 2021, when Chicago police responded to a mass shooting incident. During this incident, multiple people were shot and one person was pronounced dead at the scene. During the resulting investigation, multiple firearms were recovered from the shooting scene and five of the firearms were found to have been recently purchased from Federal Firearms Licensed (FFL) dealers in the Clarksville, Tennessee area. Further investigation identified Adams, Brunson and Miller as the majority purchasers of these firearms.
A broader investigation into firearms transaction records from FFLs in the Clarksville region determined that since September 2019, the trio had purchased 91 firearms from multiple FFLs in Clarksville; Oak Grove, Kentucky; Hopkinsville, Kentucky; Fort Campbell, Kentucky; and Paducah, Kentucky. The majority of the firearms were purchased during the last five months. The criminal complaint also alleges that after the firearms were purchased, Miller would provide them to individuals he was associated with in Chicago.
On April 28, 2021, a federal search warrant was executed at the home of Miller and Adams in Clarksville, where 49 empty firearms cases were recovered. Many of these empty cases were matched to firearms recovered by the Chicago Police Department at the scene of recent shootings and homicides.
The defendants will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Nashville Later this afternoon. If convicted, the defendants face up to 20 years in prison.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division; and the Chicago Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Kurtzman is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Three Current and Former NYPD Police Officers Charged with Towing Company Bribery SchemeRead the Press Release
A nine-count indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn charging Heather Busch, Robert Hassett, and Robert Smith with five counts of using interstate facilities to commit bribery and two counts of conspiracy to violate the Travel Act. Smith is also charged with attempting to transport at least one kilogram of heroin and possessing a firearm during the commission of that crime. During the relevant period, Smith, Busch, and Hassett were New York City Police Department (“NYPD”) police officers assigned to the 105th Precinct in Queens. Smith retired from the NYPD in March 2020.
The defendants were arrested this morning and will be arraigned this afternoon before United States Chief Magistrate Judge Cheryl L. Pollak.
Mark J. Lesko, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, William F. Sweeney, Jr. Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Dermot F. Shea, Commissioner, NYPD, announced the charges.
“As alleged, the defendants shamelessly violated their oaths of office and the public trust by trading their badges for cash payments,” stated Acting United States Attorney Lesko. “This Office will vigorously pursue corrupt public servants like these defendants, who exploited their positions as police officers for personal gain.” Mr. Lesko expressed his grateful appreciation to Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation for their assistance with the case.
“Behavior like the type alleged today is a disgrace. It erodes public trust in law enforcement and tarnishes the reputations of the many thousands of officers who honorably serve our communities on a daily basis. The FBI and NYPD stand together on this – Our shared oath is to uphold the law and protect the public. Nobody is above the law, and we will not tolerate illegal behavior, especially among the ranks of sworn law enforcement officers,” stated FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Sweeney.
“There is zero tolerance in the NYPD for corruption of any kind. Wherever it is alleged, our NYPD investigators, with our partners in the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of New York, work tirelessly to ensure it is punished to the fullest extent of the law,” stated NYPD Commissioner Shea.
The Tow Truck Scheme
Beginning in September 2016, NYPD Officers Smith and Hassett responded to automobile accidents by allegedly directing the damaged vehicles to a licensed tow trucking and automobile repair business (the “Business”) operated by an individual (the “Individual”), instead of using the NYPD’s Directed Accident Response Program (“DARP”), which requires NYPD officers to identify an appropriate licensed tow trucking business to respond to the scene of the automobile accident and remove the damaged vehicles from the scene. To ensure that no particular business receives favored treatment, NYPD officers are required to utilize a computer system that randomly selects a licensed tow trucking business. Smith and Hassett allegedly bypassed DARP and directed damaged vehicles directly to the Business in exchange for thousands of dollars in cash bribe payments. Smith and Hassett continued to participate in the scheme until at least June 2017, when they temporarily suspended their participation.
In November 2019, Smith resumed his participation in the scheme and continued to steer vehicles damaged in automobile accidents to the Business in exchange for cash. Beginning in January 2020, Smith discussed his plan to recruit Busch to participate in the scheme in advance of his retirement from the NYPD. In March 2020, Busch, at Smith’s invitation, met with Smith and the Individual and Busch agreed to participate in the scheme. Thereafter, Busch began steering vehicles damaged in automobile accidents to the Business in exchange for cash bribe payments, in lieu of utilizing DARP as required.
The Victim Database Scheme
Beginning in January 2020, Smith and Hassett obtained the names and identifying information of recent automobile accident victims from NYPD databases and provided that information to the Individual in exchange for cash. Smith and Hassett understood that the Individual would sell that information to physical therapy businesses and personal injury attorneys so that they could seek to solicit the automobile accident victims as customers.
On numerous occasions, Hassett accessed NYPD databases in violation of NYPD regulations for the purpose of obtaining the names and identifying information of victims of recent automobile accidents. Hassett then arranged for that information to be delivered to the Individual, sometimes through Smith. Upon receipt of that information, the Individual made payments in cash to Smith who, in turn, redistributed a portion of those payments to Hassett. In total, between January 2020 and March 2020, Smith and Hassett sold the names and identifying information of more than 100 victims to the Individual, in exchange for more than $7,000 in cash.
The Armed Drug Trafficking Scheme
Beginning in January 2020, Smith sought opportunities from the Individual to transport illegal narcotics, in exchange for payment, upon his retirement from the NYPD. In June 2020, Smith met with two individuals to discuss his interest in participating in a scheme to traffic drugs and told them he could carry a firearm and his retired NYPD identification while he was transporting the drugs. In July 2020, Smith met with an individual in Brooklyn and accepted a bag containing what Smith understood to be a kilogram of heroin. Smith then transported the bag to a location in Queens where he delivered it to another individual. Smith received a payment of approximately $1,200 in cash for his participation in the scheme.
The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Smith faces up to life imprisonment on the drug trafficking charge, up to 5 years’ imprisonment on each bribery count and a mandatory consecutive sentence of five years to life imprisonment on the firearm charge. Hassett and Busch face up to five years’ imprisonment on each bribery count, and the defendants each face up to five years’ imprisonment on the conspiracy to violate the Travel Act counts.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Public Integrity Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Ryan C. Harris and Nicholas J. Moscow are in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendants:
HEATHER BUSCH
Age: 34
Massapequa, New YorkROBERT HASSETT
Age: 36
Farmingville, New YorkROBERT SMITH
Age: 44
Plainview, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 21-CR-254 (RPK)
The U.S. Attorneys Office Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Gary T. Bell recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9 through Saturday, May 15, 2021.
“This week is a time to honor our law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said Attorney General Garland. “I am constantly inspired by the extraordinary courage and dedication with which members of law enforcement act each day, putting their lives on the line to make our communities safer. To members of law enforcement and your families: we know that not a single day, nor a single week, is enough to recognize your service and sacrifice. On behalf of the entire Department of Justice, you have our unwavering support and eternal gratitude.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities that they have sworn to serve.
During the Roll Call of Heroes, a ceremony coordinated by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), more than 300 officers will be honored. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), of the law enforcement officers who died nationwide in the line of duty in 2020, nearly 60 percent succumbed to COVID-19.
Additionally, according to statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 46 law enforcement officers died as a result of felonious acts and 47 died in accidents in 2020. LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website.
The names of the 394 fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Thursday, May 13, 2021, during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil, which will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm EDT. The Police Week in-person public events, originally scheduled for May, have been rescheduled due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns to October 13-17, 2021. An in-person Candlelight Vigil event is scheduled for October 14, 2021.
Those who wish to view the Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13, 2021, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF. The FOP’s Roll Call of Heroes can be viewed at www.fop.net. To view the schedule of virtual Police Week events in May, please view NLEOMF’s Police Week Flyer.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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Texas Woman Convicted of Child Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A federal jury convicted a Texas woman Monday for her role in a child sex trafficking conspiracy to recruit and exploit a child in multiple states, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Christopher Chiou for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse of the FBI.
“Sex trafficking — especially when it involves preying on children and forcing them into commercial sexual exploitation — subjects victims to appalling cruelty,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Chiou. “Combatting human trafficking remains one of our office’s top priorities. Working closely with our law enforcement and community partners, our dedicated prosecutors are focused on bringing traffickers to justice and off the streets, away from victims.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from August 2018 to September 2018, Demecia Shontres Washington, 42, of Dallas, Texas conspired with co-defendant Jimmy David Washington Jr., 35, of Lubbock, Texas, to recruit and coerce a child — who had not yet reached 18 years old — to engage in commercial sex acts and to produce child pornography. Demecia Washington and Jimmy Washington Jr. transported the child from Texas to New Mexico and Nevada with the intent that she engage in prostitution.
After a six-day trial, Washington was found guilty of one count each of: conspiracy to commit sex trafficking; sex trafficking; conspiracy to transport for prostitution or other criminal sexual activity; transportation for prostitution or other criminal sexual activity; conspiracy to sexually exploit children; sexual exploitation of children; and distribution of child pornography. U.S. District Judge Andrew P. Gordon presided over the trial and scheduled a sentencing hearing for September 1, 2021.
The statutory maximum penalty for sex trafficking, transportation for purposes of prostitution, and conspiracy to commit those offenses is life in prison, with mandatory minimum penalties of 10 years for each offense. The statutory maximum penalty for sexual exploitation of children and conspiracy to commit that offense is 30 years in prison, with mandatory minimum penalties of 15 years for both offenses. The statutory maximum penalty for distribution of child pornography is 20 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum penalty of five years for that offense.
Co-defendant Jimmy Washington Jr. previously pleaded guilty to transportation of a minor for purposes of prostitution. He was sentenced to 10 years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by 15 years of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Burton and Bianca Pucci are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
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Tampa Woman Pleads Guilty to Distributing Heroin and Fentanyl, Causing DeathRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Joamary Rosario (30, Tampa) today pleaded guilty to knowingly and intentionally distributing a substance containing a mixture of heroin, acetyl fentanyl, and fentanyl to an individual who died as a result of using the substance. Rosario faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 20 years, and up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, on November 6, 2018, G.S. contacted Rosario, his regular drug dealer, and ordered 10 bags of heroin. Rosario agreed and a few hours later, she and her supplier delivered to G.S. at his hotel 10 bags of a mixture of heroin, acetyl fentanyl, and fentanyl. That night, G.S. used one bag of the drug mixture and died by overdose. The next day, G.S.’s friend discovered his body and called 911.
Law enforcement officers found the unused bags of drugs in G.S.’s hotel room, along with his cellphones. The officers discovered G.S.’s drug-related text messages with Rosario on one of the phones. Posing as G.S., the officers ordered more of the same drugs from Rosario. A few hours later, Rosario arrived at the hotel as planned and was arrested. Rosario had in her possession several bags of drugs, each containing heroin, acetyl fentanyl, and fentanyl mixed in the exact same proportions as the bags of drugs that Rosario had sold to G.S. the night before.
This case was investigated by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael M. Gordon.
T&A Crips member who killed rival gang member, shot at potential witness pleads guiltyRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – One of 19 defendants charged in a Columbus gang-related racketeering conspiracy pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today for his part in furthering the violence of the local Crips gang.
Jonathan Dantzler, 28, admitted to murdering a rival gang member and to shooting at a potential witness in 2012. He is one of 19 defendants charged in 2018 as part of the local gang T&A Crips.
T&A Crips derived its name from Trevitt and Atcheson streets in the King-Lincoln District of Columbus, where its members predominantly reside. T&A controlled the neighborhood through intimidation, fear and violence. Gang members were expected to retaliate with acts of violence when their members and associates were disrespected, threatened, intimidated or subjected to acts of violence.
Specifically, the co-conspirators in this case are charged with five murders:
the murder of Franky Tention on July 1, 2012, in the area of 431 Ellison Street;
the murder of William Moore on March 15, 2013;
the murder of Marvin Ector on December 23, 2013, on East 5th Avenue;
the murder of Quincy Story on January 24, 2015; and
the murder of Deaonte Fisher on March 4, 2016.
As part of his plea, Dantzler admitted to shooting Franky Tention in 2012. According to court documents, Dantzler shot at the victim because he was a member of the rival “Milo Bloods” gang and was driving into T&A territory in a “sign of disrespect.”
Dantzler also discharged a firearm into the residence of a potential witness to intimidate her from cooperating with law enforcement authorities.
Parties involved in Dantzler’s case have recommended a sentence of 30 years in prison. The defendant is currently serving multiple life sentences at the local level for separate murder convictions.
Vipal J. Patel, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Roland Herndon, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Chris Hoffman, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; Columbus Interim Police Chief Michael Woods; and United States Marshal Pete Tobin announced the plea entered into today before U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson. Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin W. Kelley and Noah R. Litton are representing the United States in this case.
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Suburban Chicago Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison on Child Pornography and Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago man was sentenced today to 27 years in federal prison for threatening to publish sexually explicit images of an underage girl unless she sent him additional photos and videos of herself.
DAVID J. COTTRELL, 31, of Niles, Ill., enticed the underage victim into sending him sexually explicit photos of herself via online social messaging applications. After collecting the photos, Cottrell informed the girl that he knew her real name, the name of her school, and her parents’ jobs, and he threatened to post the images online and send them to her family unless the girl sent him additional, more explicit photos and videos, which she did. Cottrell contacted the victim on a regular basis until her parents discovered the messages and contacted law enforcement.
Cottrell pleaded guilty last year to one count of sexual exploitation of a child and one count of possession of child pornography. He admitted in a plea agreement that he similarly induced or attempted to induce four other minor victims into sending him sexually explicit images of themselves. While communicating with the victims online, Cottrell used the screennames “sevendollarcab,” “brightcitylights,” “b88785,” and “YouShallSubmitToMe Sir.”
U.S. District Judge Robert W. Gettleman imposed the sentence today after a hearing in federal court in Chicago.
The sentence was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; and Angie Salazar, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Mulaney.
If you believe you are a victim of sexual exploitation, you are encouraged to contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling 1-800-843-5678 or logging on to www.cybertipline.com.
Study Coordinator Charged in Scheme to Falsify Clinical Trial DataRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Miami, Florida, returned an indictment today charging a Florida woman with conspiring to falsify clinical trial data regarding an asthma medication.
According to court documents, Jessica Palacio, 34, of Miami, worked as a study coordinator at a clinical trial firm in Miami called Unlimited Medical Research. Unlimited Medical Research was one of many companies hired to conduct a clinical trial designed to investigate the safety and efficacy of an asthma medication in children. The indictment alleges that Palacio participated in a scheme to falsify medical records to make it appear as though pediatric subjects made scheduled visits to Unlimited Medical Research, received physical exams from a clinical investigator, and took study drugs as required, when in fact these things had not occurred. The indictment also alleges that when Palacio was confronted by a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulatory investigator about her conduct, she made a false statement to that investigator.
“Falsifying clinical trial data risks the health and safety of those who might later rely upon the drugs being tested,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Arun G. Rao of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department of Justice will continue to work with its partners at the Food and Drug Administration to investigate and prosecute anyone who endangers the public for financial gain.”
“When the efficacy of a new pharmaceutical drug is tested, public health and safety must always take precedence over profit,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Juan Antonio Gonzalez for the Southern District of Florida. “Medical researchers who manipulate clinical data and falsify records needlessly endanger the public and will be prosecuted.”
“Reliable and accurate data from clinical trials is the cornerstone of FDA’s evaluation of a new drug,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin C. Fielder of the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Miami Field Office. “Compromised clinical trial data could impact the agency’s decisions about the safety and effectiveness of the drug under review. We will continue to monitor, investigate and bring to justice those whose actions may subvert the FDA approval process and endanger the public health.”
Palacio is charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and making a false statement. The defendant is expected to make her initial court appearance later this week in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and five years in prison for making a false statement. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Joshua D. Rothman and Kara M. Traster of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch are prosecuting the case, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida provided critical assistance.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Spooner Man Receives 2nd Federal Methamphetamine-Related SentenceRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Brian K. Dennis, 51, Spooner, Wisconsin, was sentenced Friday, May 7 by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 144 months in federal prison for possessing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. This prison term will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Dennis pled guilty to this charge on February 8, 2021.
During sentencing, the Court and parties noted that Dennis was previously sentenced in federal court for distributing methamphetamine. Dennis served 5 years in prison based on that 2014 conviction. During today’s sentencing, Dennis stated that he relapsed into methamphetamine use which led him to return to drug trafficking. After a several months investigation Dennis was arrested in Barron County, Wisconsin with 153.7 grams of 98% pure methamphetamine.
The charge against Dennis was the result of an investigation conducted by the Barron, Rusk, Sawyer, and Washburn County Sheriffs’ Departments, the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division Criminal Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Acting U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea prosecuted the case.
Silver City man convicted in carjacking and firearms caseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Daniel “Grumpy” Hernandez, 33, of Silver City, New Mexico, was convicted by a federal jury on May 6 on seven counts of a 10-count indictment. Hernandez and his co-conspirator, Savannah Padilla, were indicted on Nov. 13, 2019.
Hernandez pleaded guilty on April 29 to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. As a previously convicted felon, Hernandez cannot legally possess a firearm or ammunition.
The jury found Hernandez guilty of conspiracy to commit carjacking, carjacking, brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, theft of a firearm, possessing a stolen firearm, and two additional counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On Feb. 23, Padilla pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit carjacking, carjacking and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. According to the plea agreement, on or about Sept. 7, 2018, and continuing to on or about Sept. 8, 2018, Hernandez and Padilla committed a carjacking in Grant County, New Mexico. Hernandez and Padilla demanded money from the victim at gunpoint, and later demanded that the victim get out of the driver’s seat and into the back seat of the vehicle. The victim fled in fear for his life.
Hernandez was acquitted on a separate count of carjacking and a separate count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence for a different incident on Sept. 7, 2018.
A sentencing date has not been scheduled. Hernandez and Padilla each face up to 15 years in prison for the carjacking charges, and an additional seven years to be served consecutively for the brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence charges.
The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the Silver City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Armijo and Ry Ellison are prosecuting the case.
Resident of Selah, Washington and Las Vegas, Nevada Sentenced to 30 Years of Federal Imprisonment for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Spokane – Joseph H. Harrington, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Jason William Cathcart, age 52, a resident of Selah, Washington and Las Vegas, Nevada, was sentenced May 10, 2021, after having pleaded guilty to two counts of production of child pornography, on June 15, 2020. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Cathcart to 30 years of imprisonment, to be reduced by 5 years already spent in related state custody, for a final federal term of imprisonment of 25 years. The Court also imposed a lifetime term of court supervision after Cathcart is released from federal prison.
In March, 2016, a witness reported to the Selah Police Department that a minor child had been molested by Cathcart after walking in on him and the minor partially nude. Cathcart exclaimed something similar to, “No, no, no my life is over.” Cathcart turned himself in to police and admitted engaging in sexual acts with the minor child. Cathcart was arrested and later convicted of state charges for First Degree Child Molestation where he was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 10 years of confinement.
A federal investigation followed, and devices seized from Cathcart’s residence were forensically examined. On Cathcart’s devices, investigators located images of child pornography that he had produced involving two minor children, including the one previously mentioned. Cathcart used the children to take part in sexually explicit conduct to produce sexually explicit images. The devices used by Cathcart had been mailed, shipped, and/or transported across state lines and/or in foreign commerce. Over two thousand additional images of other child pornography were also located on Cathcart’s devices.Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Harrington said, “The lengthy sentence imposed today demonstrates the severity of Cathcart’s criminal conduct. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington is committed to protecting vulnerable victims and prosecuting individuals who engage in conduct in which they attempt to produce child pornography and sexually exploit children. I commend the outstanding work of our federal, state and local partners who worked collaboratively in the investigation of this case.”
This case was pursued as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the United States 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. The Project Safe Childhood Initiative (“PSC”) has five major components:
· Integrated federal, state, and local efforts to investigate and prosecute child exploitation cases,
and to identify and rescue children;
· Participation of PSC partners in coordinated national initiatives;
· Increased federal enforcement in child pornography and enticement cases;
· Training of federal, state, and local law enforcement agents; and
· Community awareness and educational programs.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."This case was investigated by the Spokane Resident Office of the United States Secret Service and the Selah Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Ian L. Garriques, an Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Prince George’s County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – Marvel David Yarborough, age 30, of Capitol Heights, Maryland, pleaded guilty today to the federal charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The guilty plea was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Jonathan F. Lenzner; Special Agent in Charge Timothy Jones of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division; and Chief Malik Aziz of the Prince George’s County Police Department.
According to his guilty plea, on February 21, 2020, Prince George’s County Police officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle being driven by Yarborough, after observing that the driver was not wearing a seat belt and did not properly use his turn signal. When approaching the vehicle officers observed Yarborough attempting to conceal objects in his groin area and detected the odor of phencyclidine (“PCP”) from his person and vehicle. Yarborough was searched and officers recovered approximately 34 baggies and capsules containing a white, rock-like substance. The substances were tested in the lab and found to contain 10.5 grams of crack cocaine, .352 grams of fentanyl, and 17.6 grams of PCP. In addition, law enforcement recovered $1,012 in cash from Yarborough’s vehicle, numerous empty baggies and several digital scales.
In March 26, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Yarborough’s residence and recovered an AM-15 rifle, with a loaded drum-style magazine containing eight rounds of ammunition from the hall closet. An additional drum-style magazine was found on the kitchen table, loaded with 14 rounds of ammunition. Law enforcement also seized: 100 capsules found to contain 9.234 grams of crack cocaine and 26.7 grams of powder cocaine; 6.68 grams of PCP; drug paraphernalia; and a notebook containing references to drugs and the names and numbers of drug customers.
Yarborough’s cell phone was also seized and subsequently searched. The phone contained text conversations about drugs and guns, photographs of Yarborough with the AM-15, and photographs of drugs and drug paraphernalia. The text messages reflect that Yarborough possessed the AM-15 in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
Yarborough and the government have agreed that, if the Court accepts the plea agreement, Yarborough will be sentenced to between 78 and 114 months in federal prison. U.S. District Judge George J. Hazel has scheduled sentencing for August 5, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.
Acting United States Attorney Jonathan F. Lenzner commended the ATF and the Prince George’s County Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Lenzner thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Catherine K. Dick, who is prosecuting the case.
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Previously Convicted Felon Involved in Jersey City Shooting Sentenced to Five Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Hudson County, New Jersey, man previously convicted of three felonies was sentenced today to 60 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition in connection with a June 2020 shooting in Jersey City, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
Jamel Armfield, 20, of Jersey City, previously pleaded guilty by videoconference before U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo to an indictment charging him with one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Judge Arleo imposed the sentence today.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On June 24, 2020, Armfield knowingly possessed a .45 caliber Springfield Armory semi-automatic handgun, Model XD-45 ACP, and 14 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition when he fired nine rounds of ammunition from that handgun at a moving vehicle traveling on Gates Avenue in Jersey City. The motive and intended target(s) remain unknown. The shooting was captured on a nearby surveillance camera. The firearm was then hidden by Armfield and recovered by members of the Jersey City Police Department. It contained five additional rounds of ammunition. At that time, Armfield had previously been convicted in Hudson County Superior Court of possession of a controlled dangerous substance, possession with intent to distribute controlled dangerous substances on or near school property, and resisting arrest, all of which are felonies.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Arleo sentenced Armfield to three years of supervised release.
This case is part of the Jersey City Violent Crime Initiative (VCI). The VCI was formed in 2018 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Jersey City Police Department, for the sole purpose of combatting violent crime in and around Jersey City. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate to strategize and prioritize the prosecution of violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Jersey Division, the U.S. Marshals, the Jersey City Police Department, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, New Jersey State Parole, the Hudson County Jail, and the New Jersey State Police Regional Operations and Intelligence Center/Real Time Crime Center.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents and task force officers of the ATF, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Craig B. Kailimai, Newark Field Division, and the Jersey City Police Department, under the direction of Public Safety Director James Shea, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing. She also thanked the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Esther Suarez, for its assistance with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey Agnew of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Newark.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Conspiring to Distribute Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to five years’ (60 months’) imprisonment on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Marshinneah Manning, age 28, of Pittsburgh, PA.
According to information presented to the court, in 2017, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration initiated a wiretap investigation, primarily targeting the GBK street gang and drug trafficking in and around an area known as the Greenway Projects, located in the West End of the City of Pittsburgh. The wiretap investigation revealed that from in and around November 2017 through in and around June 2018, Marshinneah Manning conspired to distribute over 28 grams of crack cocaine.
Prior to imposing sentence, Senior Judge Schwab stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Yvonne M. Saadi prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
Acting United States Attorney Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration jointly with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Robinson Township Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Wilkinsburg Borough Police Department, and the McKees Rocks Police Department, for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Manning.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Illegal Possession of a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, PA on charges of violating various federal firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Jamaar Alexander Blakey, 37, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on September 26, 2020, Blakey is accused to have possessed a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The Indictment further alleges that on October 19, 2020, Blakey possessed ammunition. Federal law prohibits an individual who has been convicted of a felony from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Douglas C. Maloney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police 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.
North Carolina Woman Arrested for Selling Unapproved Remedies for Covid-19Read the Press Release
CONCORD - Diana Daffin, 68, of Charlotte, North Carolina was arrested today and charged with violating the Food Drug and Cosmetic Act by selling unapproved COVID-19 remedies over the internet, Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley announced today.
According to the criminal complaint, Diana Daffin owns a holistic medicine company called Savvy Holistic Health doing business as Holistic Healthy Pet. In March 2020, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) learned that Daffin was selling an unapproved drug on her website, with the brand name HAMPL, that Daffin claimed was a COVID-19 remedy and treatment. In April of 2020, the FDA sent Daffin and the Australian manufacturer of the drug a warning letter explaining that the HAMPL COVID-19 drug Daffin was selling was an adulterated, misbranded, and unapproved drug and that she should take immediate action to correct the violation. Daffin responded by telling the FDA that she removed the product from her website.
In August of 2020, the FDA sent Daffin a second warning letter identifying other unapproved HAMPL brand drugs that Daffin was selling. In response, Daffin told the FDA that, regarding “HAMPL products” she would be “closing that product line.” Daffin also said that she would shut down her website while she worked to replace her product line. The complaint alleges that Daffin continued to sell unapproved HAMPL brand drugs by moving them to a password protected website.
According to the complaint, an undercover agent later contacted Daffin by email, and she provided the password to the website. The undercover agent then purchased several unapproved HAMPL brand drugs listed in the August 2020 warning letter. In email correspondence with the undercover agent, Daffin stated that the HAMPL products “work for covid, but fda shut it down.” Daffin later sold and shipped the undercover agent an unapproved HAMPL-brand COVID-19 drug.
On March 5, 2021, the undercover agent in New Hampshire received HAMPL drugs sold by Daffin, including the purported COVID-19 remedy. The label stated that it provided “a stronger immunity against CV” and promised “Immunity for Humans.”
Daffin was charged by complaint in the District of New Hampshire. She was arrested this morning outside of her home in North Carolina.
This matter was investigated by the United States Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Hunter.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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New York Man Admits Unlawfully Possessing Firearm as Previously Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A New York man with prior felony convictions today admitted illegally possessing a firearm, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
Kevon Belfon, 35, of Jamaica, New York, pleaded guilty by videoconference before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp to an information charging him with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On July 24, 2020, Belfon knowingly possessed a Taurus 9-millimeter semi-automatic handgun loaded with 10 rounds of ammunition in his vehicle in Stafford Township, New Jersey. Belfon has two prior felony convictions, one of which involved a firearm. As a previously convicted felon, Belfon is not permitted to possess firearms.
The charge of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 13, 2021.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Newark Division, Trenton Field Office, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Craig B. Kailimai; and the Stafford Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Thomas Dellane, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensured that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ian D. Brater of the Criminal Division in Trenton.
Morris County Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
TRENTON N.J. – A Morris County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 84 months in prison for distribution of child pornography, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
Mark Miller, 63, of Mount Arlington, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty by videoconference before Chief U.S. District Judge Freda L. Wolfson to an information charging him with one count of distribution of child pornography. Judge Wolfson imposed the sentence today in Trenton federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
In August 2018, Miller knowingly possessed more than 600 images of child sexual abuse, including materials depicting prepubescent minors, sadistic or masochistic conduct or other depictions of violence, and sexual abuse or exploitation of an infant or toddler. Miller knowingly distributed these materials on the Internet through a publicly available peer-to-peer file sharing network.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Wolfson sentenced Miller to five years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jason J. Molina in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Trombly of the Cybercrime Unit in Newark.
Missoula man admits methamphetamine trafficking crimeRead the Press Release
MISSOULA – A Missoula man accused of dealing large quantities of methamphetamine in the community and of having nine pounds of the drug at his property and vehicle admitted to a trafficking crime today, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.
Terry David Starrett, 53, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth as charged in a superseding information. Starrett faces a mandatory minimum five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Sentencing was set for Sept. 2 before U.S. District Court Judge Donald W. Molloy. Starrett was detained pending further proceedings.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement served a federal search warrant on Jan. 7 and recovered more than nine pounds of meth from Starrett’s rental property and his vehicle. Nine pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 32,616 individual doses. The government further alleged that Starrett sold an undercover informant about two ounces of meth in December 2020 and that he trafficked meth from Washington to Montana once or twice a week. In addition, in the fall of 2020, Starrett traveled to California with another person and returned to Missoula with about 15 pounds of meth. Fifteen pounds of meth is the equivalent of about 54,360 individual doses.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, the Missoula Police Department, Missoula County Sheriff’s Office and Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants
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Miami Woman Arrested for Wire Fraud Arising from Small Business Disaster Relief LoanRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Miami woman was arrested today in connection with allegedly filing and obtaining fraudulent pandemic-related loans and using those funds for personal expenses.
Danielle Miller, 31, of Miami, Fla., was arrested and charged today in a criminal complaint with one count of wire fraud. Miller will appear in U.S. District Court in Miami tomorrow and will make an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Boston at a later date.
According to the complaint, Miller allegedly accessed the online Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) account associated with a Massachusetts resident and then used that victim’s personal identifying information to open a bank account and to apply for a federally-funded Economic Injury Disaster loan (EIDL) through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). In August 2020, more than $102,000 in SBA loan proceeds were deposited into that account.
After receipt of these fraudulent loan proceeds, Miller allegedly used the bank account in the victim’s name to book a private flight from Florida to California, using a counterfeit Massachusetts driver’s license in the victim’s name but bearing Miller’s photograph, and conducted ATM transactions using the bank account in the victim’s name.
As alleged in court documents, Miller maintains an active social media presence via her Instagram account, which has more than 34,000 followers. Posts to this account include a post showing Miller at various luxury hotels in California where transactions were made using the bank account in the victim’s name. For example, the luxury hotel Petit Ermitage allegedly posted a $5,500 charge to this bank account in September 2020, a few days after Miller’s Instagram account posted a photo of Miller that was geotagged to the Petit Ermitage.
It is alleged that the same IP address used to apply for the fraudulent SBA loan was also used to access the online RMV accounts of other individuals and to apply for more than $900,000 in SBA loans under those other identities.
The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to 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.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security’s Investigation’s Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force (DBFTF), a specialized field investigative group comprised of personnel from various local, state, and federal agencies with expertise in detecting, deterring, and disrupting organizations and individuals involved in various types of document, identity, and benefit fraud schemes.
Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and William S. Walker, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Abely, Chief of Mendell’s Major Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Meridian Man Found Guilty under Project EJECT of Being a Convicted Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
JACKSON, MS – After a two-day trial, a federal jury convicted a Meridian, Mississippi man today for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Kurt H. Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, James T. Britain, 51, failed to stop at a traffic safety checkpoint on July 5, 2019. The Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office conducted the traffic safety checkpoint and pursued Britain after he refused to stop. Britain led the police on a two to three mile chase before stopping. After Britain was arrested, he admitted to a Sheriff’s Deputy that there was a firearm in his vehicle and that he was a convicted felon. As a convicted felon, it is contrary to federal law for Britain to possess any firearm.
The ATF and the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bert Carraway and Charles W. Kirkham tried the defendant.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
Marshall County man guilty of firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – James Gray, of Moundsville, West Virginia, was found guilty today of a firearms charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Randolph J. Bernard announced.
After a one-day trial, the federal jury found Gray, 43, guilty of one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.” Gray, a person prohibited from having a firearm because of prior felony convictions, had a .380 caliber pistol in October 2020 in Marshall County.
Gray faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250 ,000 for each count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. Perri and Jennifer T. Conklin are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Man Admits Committing Mail Fraud while Serving Federal Sentence for Previous FraudRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – The president of a company providing goods to government agencies today admitted to attempting to defraud businesses in connection with government contracting, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
Keith Fisher Sr., 62, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Burlington, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Renée Marie Bumb in Camden federal court to an indictment charging him with one count of mail fraud. Fisher also pleaded guilty to violating the conditions of his supervised release from a prior conviction.
According to documents filed in this and other cases and statements made in court:
On July 18, 2017, Fisher was sentenced by Judge Bumb to 60 months in prison for conspiring to commit mail fraud using various companies he owned and controlled. In that case, Fisher and his companies won bids for U.S. government contracts; subcontracted with victim-businesses to provide goods to the government pursuant to the contracts; collected payments from the government for fulfilling the contracts; and then failed to pay the subcontractor victim-businesses that actually provided the goods.
The fraud scheme charged today involved another company, Atlantic Safety Corp., controlled by Fisher, and began when Fisher was nearing the end of his previous prison sentence. Fisher used Atlantic Safety to bid on federal contracts through Unison Marketplace, a reverse auction online marketplace that enabled government agencies to post requirements for goods. Upon submitting a winning bid, Atlantic Safety was awarded a contract to provide goods to a government agency.
Fisher orchestrated his fraud by using an alias to subcontract with a third-party vendor to provide goods directly to the government agency. Fisher induced the third-party vendor to ship the goods to the government agency on credit by falsely promising to pay the vendor for the goods. Fisher also made fraudulent representations to other potential subcontractor vendors about the creditworthiness and financial status of Atlantic Safety.
The mail fraud count carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 13, 2021.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents with the U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael T. Wiest; special agents with the General Services Administration Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations Mid-Atlantic Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Eric D. Radwick; and special agents with the U.S. Department of State Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Speckhardt, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.
Madison Man Sentenced to 84 Months for Armed Robbery & Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Nathaniel Homestead, 29, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to a total of 84 months in federal prison for armed robbery and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. This prison term will be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Homestead pleaded guilty to these charges on February 8, 2021.
On July 19, 2020, Homestead robbed the Ground Zero Coffee in Madison. During the robbery, he raised his shirt and revealed a handgun in his waistband. An employee then gave Homestead cash from the register, and Homestead fled the shop. Madison police officers responded and arrested Homestead a few blocks away. Officers found Homestead’s handgun in a backpack at a beach not far away. Homestead had multiple prior felony convictions and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Following his arrest, Homestead admitted to walking by the coffee shop and suddenly thinking he should rob it. He said he was motivated to rob the store to get money to quickly purchase drugs. Homestead said he was under the influence of methamphetamine and crack cocaine at the time of the robbery. He knew he was a felon and could not legally possess a firearm.
Homestead was on active state supervision at the time for two different state cases – one involving intentionally pointing a firearm at a law enforcement officer and another for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The charges against Homestead were the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Anderson.
Lowell Woman Sentenced for Stealing Approximately $182,000 from EmployerRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lowell woman was sentenced yesterday in connection with embezzling approximately $182,000 from a veterinary hospital that employed her.
Sasha A. Saulnier, 33, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to one year and one day in prison, two years of supervised release and restitution in the amount of $182,827.68. In January 2020, Saulnier pleaded guilty to six counts of wire fraud
Saulnier was employed by a full-service animal hospital as a client relations specialist from October 2011 until September 2018. During that time, she had various client responsibilities, including selling retail products to customers at the hospital. Saulnier also served in a temporary supervisory role, which gave her access to management software and the ability to manipulate account transactions and accounting data.
From March 2014 through August 2018, Saulnier entered false refund transactions into the company’s management software, and then credited her own personal debit cards, which linked directly to her personal checking account. Specifically, Saulnier occasionally entered a fictitious refund for merchandise that was legitimately purchased by a customer, but never returned, and then credited the bogus refund to her own debit card. Saulnier also fabricated refunds for wholly fictitious retail purchases that were never actually made, and then credited that amount to her own debit card. In an effort to conceal her fraud, Saulnier used dormant accounts of inactive hospital clients, such as those with deceased pets and so-called “test accounts,” set up solely for training purposes. In addition, Saulnier fabricated discounts which she applied to purchases of retail products.
Over the course of the scheme, Saulnier used her position to falsify approximately 482 transactions resulting in refunds and credits totaling more than $182,800 to her own bank account. Saulnier used this money for personal expenses and travel, including trips to Las Vegas, New York City and the Bahamas.
Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Ramsey E. Covington, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation in Boston, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lindsey E. Weinstein and Mackenzie Duane of Mendell’s Criminal Division prosecuted the case.
Local man sentenced to prison for unlawfully possessing pipe bombRead the Press Release
DAYTON – A Kettering man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 30 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a pipe bomb.
Michael J. Rhea, 27, pleaded guilty in February 2021 to possessing an unregistered explosive device and to illegally possessing the explosive device as a frequent user of controlled substances.
According to court documents, in March 2020, officers with the Kettering Police Department encountered Rhea, who had a warrant out for his arrest. Officers explained to Rhea that he was going to be detained and discovered three methamphetamine pipes and a pipe bomb on Rhea and in his vehicle.
The Dayton Police Department’s Regional Bomb Squad was called to the scene and safely removed the pipe bomb, which had a protruding fuse and was filled with powder and BBs.
During a prior arrest, Rhea told law enforcement he uses methamphetamine daily.
Vipal J. Patel, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Chris Hoffman, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; Dayton Police Chief Richard S. Biehl and Kettering Police Chief Christopher N. Protsman announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Judge Michael J. Newman. Assistant United States Attorney Dwight K. Keller and Deputy Criminal Chief Dominick S. Gerace are representing the United States in this case.
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Local man sentenced for smuggling 35 people in hot trailerRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 52-year-old Laredo resident has been ordered to federal prison for smuggling aliens, some of whom had lost consciousness, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Juan Contreras pleaded guilty Feb. 3, 2020.
Today, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo ordered Contreras to serve a 110-month sentence. At the hearing, the court heard additional information regarding the danger posed to the people trapped in the tractor-trailer Contreras drove as well as their attempts to escape. In handing down the sentence, Judge Marmolejo noted Contreras has been given multiple previous opportunities to not continue in criminal activity and that this was his third alien smuggling conviction.
Contreras had been on supervised release for a prior conviction of transporting an undocumented alien when he committed this crime. The court revoked the remainder of that term and ordered he serve and additional consecutive nine months. The total 119- month overall term of imprisonment will again be followed by three years of supervised release.
“The sentencing of Contreras sends a clear message that individuals who engage in criminal activity with disregard for human life will be located, arrested, convicted and sentenced for their actions said Deputy Special Agent in Charge Timothy Tubbs from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “Criminals who illegally smuggle people into and throughout the United States place personal profit ahead of public safety. HSI will continue to utilize its broad authorities to dismantle human smuggling organizations.”
On June 19, 2019, authorities found Contreras with an inoperable tractor-trailer on the side of Interstate Highway 35 near Laredo. The trailer was sealed shut, but they saw a person stuck between the trailer doors attempting to escape.
They soon rescued a total of 35 undocumented aliens who were trapped inside the trailer.
The investigation revealed the aliens had been banging on the walls while the vehicle was on the side of the highway. They also tried to reach through holes they made with a crowbar. Multiple individuals even lost conscious due to lack of oxygen and high temperatures.
Contreras has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
HSI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Scott Bowling prosecuted the case.
Local Hospital Nurse Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead 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 Craig Marranca, 32, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura A. Higgins, who is handling the case, stated that on September 18, 2017, New York State Police undercover investigators downloaded an image containing child pornography from the eMule/eDonkey peer-to-peer network. Investigators traced the image to an IP address belonging to the defendant’s spouse. The image was recovered later from Marranca’s laptop seized on October 27, 2017, during the execution of a search warrant at the defendant’s residence. A total of 18 electronic devices were seized during the search, including the laptop which contained 1,771 files of child pornography. Some of the images included prepubescent minors and depictions of violence.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kelly, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major James Hall.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 27, 2021, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
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Judges sentences St. Louis man for carjacking postal employee from government vehicleRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – United States District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk sentenced Bryant Willingham to 60 months in prison today. The 40-year-old St. Louis, Missouri resident pleaded guilty to one count of carjacking.
On April 8, 2020, Willingham approached a postal employee, inside a postal vehicle, delivering mail in the 5900 block of Tara Lane in St. Louis. Willingham tried to open the front passenger door, but the door was locked. However, the window to the door was down. Willingham climbed into passenger seat through the open window.
The postal employee began to drive away to keep Willingham from getting into the vehicle. Once he got inside, Willingham told the postal employee to keep driving. The postal employee, fearing for his life, slowed the vehicle and jumped out. Willingham climbed into the driver's seat and drove the postal vehicle away.
A few minutes later, Willingham crashed the postal vehicle at the intersection of Jennings Station and Lewis and Clark Roads. Willingham fled and boarded a Metro bus. The bus driver, a short time later, flagged down a St. Louis County Police Officer who boarded the bus and arrested Willingham.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney John Ware is handling the case.
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Jordy Robertson Sentenced for Drug Trafficking and Wire Fraud OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JORDY ROBERTSON, age 37, from St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana, was sentenced to 96 months of imprisonment by United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter for drug trafficking and wire fraud offenses. ROBERTSON was also sentenced to 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $200 in special assessment fees. In addition, ROBERTSON must pay restitution in the amount of $116,216, including to those of his victims that made donations through his fraudulent charitable campaign posted on GoFundMe.
According to court documents, ROBERTSON’s drug trafficking conspiracy ran from at least May of 2017 through January of 2019, and his wire fraud scheme ran from October of 2016 through January of 2019.
“Today’s sentencing of Jordy Robertson illustrates our commitment to bring federal offenders to justice,” stated U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. “Mr. Robertson’s criminal activities showed a blatant disregard for the generosity of others. Our office will continue to work with our local and federal law enforcement partners to protect the citizens of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
“The wreckage caused by drugs affects everyone. Drug dealers breed crime in our neighborhoods and are a danger to our children,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley. “The conviction and subsequent sentencing of Jordy Robertson demonstrates to the citizens in this parish and beyond that federal and local law enforcement, when we combine our resources, can come together and accomplish great things. We will continue to work side by side with all of our law enforcement partners to make our communities safer places to live.”
“It is through the seamless relationship with our federal partners in the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Attorney’s Office that Mr. Robertson was brought to justice,” stated Sheriff Mike Tregre, St. John the Baptist Sheriff’s Office.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan L. Shih and Nicholas D. Moses are in charge of the prosecution.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”). OCDETF is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
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Johnstown Clinic Owner Sentenced for Maintaining a Drug Involved Premises and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Bulger, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to three years’ probation and the forfeiture of $1.75 million on his conviction of maintaining a drug involved premises and money laundering, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Stephen K. Shaner, 71.
According to information presented to the court, Shaner was the owner and operator of SKS Associates, Inc., a buprenorphine clinic located in Johnstown, Pa. Buprenorphine is a controlled substance that is prescribed to opioid addicted patients and is dispensed under the names of Suboxone, Subutex, and Zubsolv. Two of the doctors employed at SKS Associates prescribed buprenorphine outside the course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. On many instances the doctors did not see or physically examine the patients they were treating and the patients were given pre-signed prescriptions that had been completed by non-medically licensed personnel at the facility. Shaner also committed money laundering when he deposited a $50,000 check involving funds derived from a criminal offense.
Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Cessar and Michael Leo Ivory prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The investigation leading to the filing of charges in this case was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit (OFADU). The Western Pennsylvania OFADU, led by federal prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, combines the expertise and resources of federal and state law enforcement to address the role played by unethical medical professionals in the opioid epidemic.
The agencies which comprise the Western Pennsylvania OFADU include: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General - Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General – Bureau of Narcotic Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office – Criminal Division, Civil Division and Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Veterans Affairs-Office of Inspector General, Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, U.S. Office of Personnel Management – Office of Inspector General and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Licensing.