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Newest first across public DOJ and U.S. Attorney press releases.
Monday 10 May 2021
Bronx Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Bronx, New York, man was sentenced today to 60 months in prison for conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
Jordan Urrutia, 32, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Judge Wigenton imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
In August 2019, Urrutia conspired with others to distribute cocaine in New Jersey. Urrutia and a conspirator traveled from the Bronx into Bergen County, New Jersey, to deliver approximately two kilograms of cocaine before being identified and arrested by agents with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Wigenton sentenced Urrutia to four years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Barnes of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Newark.
Brandon Woman Pleads Guilty to Harboring of Illegal AlienRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Brandon woman pleaded guilty today to harboring an illegal alien for financial gain, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Jack P. Staton, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations’ New Orleans Field Office.
According to court documents, Iris Villalon, 45, of Brandon, Mississippi, operated Southern Knights Industrial Services which provided employee management and payroll services to A&B Inc, a poultry processing plant in Pelahatchie, Mississippi. Villalon was charged with and pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the harboring of an illegal alien for financial gain as the owner of the employee management company.
Villalon is scheduled to be sentenced on August 19, 2021, and faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn Murray.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Honors Nation’s Law Enforcement During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland 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% 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 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.
Arcadia Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Attempting to Purchase One Kilogram of “Ice”Read the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Michael Torres (41, Arcadia) to 14 years in federal prison for distribution and attempted possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. The court also ordered Torres to forfeit $16,000 that was used in the offense.
Torres had pleaded guilty on September 22, 2020.
According to court documents, in December 2019, Torres sold an undercover law enforcement officer in Arcadia two ounces of 100% pure methamphetamine for $950. However, when the coronavirus pandemic began, Torres’ typical sources of supply in the area dried up, and he looked elsewhere to secure a kilogram of methamphetamine. Ultimately, Torres agreed to buy one kilogram of “Ice,” a particularly pure form of the drug, from law enforcement.
On June 2, 2020, Torres met with the officer inside a restaurant in Punta Gorda and brought $16,000 in cash with him. As the two walked outside to complete the deal, Torres was arrested.
This case was investigated by the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael V. Leeman. Assistant United States James Muench handled the forfeiture.
Acting United States Attorney Sean R. Berry Recognizes Police Week and Thanks All Law Enforcement Officers Serving Iowa CommunitiesRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Sean R. Berry 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.”
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is grateful for the important work of our law enforcement partners – federal, state, local, and tribal,” said Acting United States Attorney Berry. “These brave individuals stand on the front lines of our communities, keeping us safe every day. I join the Attorney General in thanking all officers for their bravery and commitment to protecting others at their own risk.”
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.
Acting United States Attorney Mark J. Lesko Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
BROOKLYN, NY— In honor of National Police Week, Acting United States Attorney Mark J. Lesko recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 9, 2021, 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,” stated 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.”
“The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York is deeply grateful to the brave men and women of law enforcement who risk their lives every tour of duty to keep us safe, especially during the challenges posed over the past year by the pandemic,” stated Acting United States Attorney Lesko. “This week, and always, we will remember those who have sacrificed so much, including NYPD Highway Police Officer Anastasios Tsakos, who was killed by an alleged drunk driver on the Long Island Expressway this month, and Suffolk County Police Officer Christopher Racioppo, who was stabbed and nearly bled to death while heroically grappling with an alleged drunk driver in Patchogue in April. Please remember them and their families who have also suffered.”
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. In the past year in the Eastern District of New York, NYPD Police Officer Anastasios Tsakos and New York State Trooper Joseph Gallagher died in the line of duty. At least 55 members of the NYPD, one member of the Sands Point Police Department and two members of the Suffolk County Police Department have died from the Coronavirus during the pandemic.
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 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.
Acting U.S. Attorney William T. Stetzer Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney William T. Stetzer recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enfrocement. 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.”
“Throughout National Police Week and on Peace Officers Memorial Day, we join our federal, state, county, local and Tribal partners in recognizing the service and sacrifice of the law enforcement community, particularly the law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2020. We are forever grateful to the fallen officers and their families for their service and sacrifice,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Stetzer.
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. In the Western District of North Carolina, two 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. Among those honored will be Deputy Ryan Phillip Hendrix of the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office, and Officer Tyler Avery Herndon of the Mount Holly Police Department, who were both killed in the line of duty during 2020.
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.
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.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman recognizes the courage and sacrifice of Washington’s Law Enforcement Officers as part of National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Seattle – In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman 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.”
“This year, Washington State has eight names being added to the Law Enforcement Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. “In such a difficult time for all of us, our law enforcement officers are on the front lines–at risk of contracting COVID-19, on top of the other risks inherent in law enforcement. We hold these fallen officers in our hearts as we thank their colleagues who continue to protect and serve each and every 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.
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 Washington State law enforcement officers whose names will be added to the wall are:
Kurtis James Enget, Bainbridge Island Police Department
Jonathan Paul Shoop, Bothell Police Department
Jon Michael Melvin, Grant County Sheriff’s Office
Berisford Anthony Morse, Washington State Department of Corrections
Justin Robert Schaffer, Washington State Patrol
S. Renee Padgett, Washington State Patrol
Daniel Glenn Oaks, Yakima County Department of Corrections
Charlie Joe Cortez, Tulalip Police Department
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.
Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman Recognizes National Police Week with Visits to Law Enforcement Entities to Award Service and Salute SacrificeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH — In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman joins U.S. Attorneys across the nation 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 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."
"National Police Week provides an opportunity to highlight the hard work, dedication, courage and commitment of law enforcement to keep western Pennsylvanians safe," said Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman. "Throughout the week, we will also be focusing on the many ways that our police officers serve the community, including by building positive relationships with children through day camps, backpack distributions, and many other like activities."
During Police Week 2021, Acting U.S. Attorney Kaufman will visit with officers in Allegheny, Cambria, Erie, Lawrence, and Washington Counties to thank these courageous public servants for the exceptional work they are doing. In addition, he will visit California, Pa., to recognize a fallen police chief who died unexpectedly while on duty in February 2021.
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.
Acting U.S. Attorney Shah Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Prerak Shah 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 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 Northern District of Texas partners with more than 300 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies whose officers and agents routinely risk life and limb to keep our communities safe. This year has presented even more challenges than most,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Prerak Shah. “We can never repay our officers’ myriad sacrifices, but we will always stand behind them. We are proud to back the blue.”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.
Acting U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Stewart Recognizes Law Enforcement During Police WeekRead the Press Release
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA— In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Stewart for the Middle District of Alabama recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement, particularly the officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2020. 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 men and women that serve in law enforcement play a critical role in the safety and prosperity of our nation,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Stewart. “Day after day they watch over our communities and confront crime and violence where it happens, placing their own lives at risk in the process. Last year, too many officers were killed in the line of duty while protecting and serving others, including one officer here in the Middle District. The memory and legacy of Assistant Chief Gail S. Green-Gilliam from the Phenix City Police Department will never be forgotten. We take time this week to honor and recognize those we have lost and thank those that continue to serve. I encourage all citizens to do just that, not only this week, but each week to come.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
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 Middle District, one officer 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.
Acting U.S. Attorney Myrus Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE - In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Richard B. Myrus 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.”
“It is an honor for the U.S. Attorney’s Office and for me personally to work with our law enforcement partners as they serve and protect the communities of Rhode Island,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Myrus. “The work of law enforcement officers is often profoundly challenging and dangerous, but it is essential to protecting the rights of community members and upholding the rule of law. The officers of our federal, state, and local law enforcement organizations have my deepest respect for their bravery, compassion, and sacrifice.”
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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Acting U.S. Attorney McCormick Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Glenn McCormick 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.”
“Every year National Police Week challenges our emotions as we consider the sobering and inspiring sacrifices that are made on our behalf,” said Acting U.S. Attorney McCormick. “Our office is forever grateful to our partners in law enforcement for their steadfast commitment to 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, including two officers from the District of Arizona who died in the line of duty.
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.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2021-032_Police Week
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston Recognizes Law Enforcement Officers During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Charleston Police Officer Cassie Marie Johnson’s name added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state and, 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.”
“I am extremely grateful for the brave men and women of law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day to protect all of us. I thank each of them for their daily sacrifices,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Johnston. “During National Police Week we recognize and pay tribute to the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to the families of West Virginia officers Cassie Marie Johnson and Levin Oliver Zimmerman, whose names were inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial this year. I know the entire Charleston community still mourns the loss of Charleston Police Officer Cassie Johnson, a close friend and colleague who was killed in the line of duty in December 2020. Her death was a true tragedy, and a reminder that all investigations have risk.”
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 Southern District of West Virginia, one law enforcement officer died in the line of duty in 2020. Among the 394 names of law enforcement officers added this year to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., are two West Virginia law enforcement officers – Charleston Police Officer Cassie Marie Johnson (EOW 12/03/2020) and Great Cacapon Constable Levin Oliver Zimmerman (EOW 12/02/1955).
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 Karin Hoppmann Recognizes Law Enforcement Service During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL— In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Karin Hoppmann 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.”
“The Middle District of Florida joins the entire nation in honoring law enforcement officers across the country for their service and sacrifice in keeping our communities safe,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Karin Hoppmann. “We recognize the commitment of our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners who often place themselves in harm’s way to protect us at all times. They, and their families, have our untiring support.”
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 Middle District of Florida, seven 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 visit www.policeweek.org.
Acting U.S. Attorney G. Norman Acker, III Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina G. Norman Acker, III 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 Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe,” said Acting United States Attorney Acker. “I want to acknowledge the work performed by federal, state, and local law enforcement, who often face uncertain and dangerous situations without question and without expectation of thanks. We want them to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation.”
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 North Carolina, two 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.
Acting U.S. Attorney Donald E. Clark Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine—In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Donald E. Clark 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.”
“The employees of the U.S. Attorney’s Office are honored to work with our federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement partners,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Clark. “Especially during a global pandemic, the job of a law enforcement officer is difficult and often dangerous. National Police Week provides an opportunity for the communities served by law enforcement to express their support and thanks.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
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 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 learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
Acting U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
FORT SMITH— In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes 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.”
“We are very privileged in Western Arkansas to work with some of the best law enforcement officers in the United States. Our law enforcement partners in federal, state, and local offices across Western Arkansas work very hard every day to make our communities safer. They deserve our thanks and our deepest appreciation for the sacrifices they make and the dangers they face on our behalf.”
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.
Acting U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson Recognizes the Sacrifice of Law Enforcement Officers during National Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and Acting U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson recognize the service, courage and sacrifice made by 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 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, Americans commemorate the courage, devotion to duty, and extraordinary character that is reflected in the men and women who selflessly serve as law enforcement officers in communities across our nation. We especially honor and remember the peace officers, including eight Oklahomans, who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2020,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “For their service and sacrifice to the cause of justice, I am grateful.”
This year, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund approved the inclusion of 295 names representing those killed in the line of duty in 2020, including Tulsa Police Sergeant Craig Johnson. Of those, 182 died from COVID-19. An additional 99 officers who died in previous years were also added to the memorial. In 2020, Officer Jerad Lindsey of the Tulsa Police Department, Captain Jeffrey Sewell of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Captain Billy Allen Sr. of the U.S. Department of Defense Fort Sill Police Department, and Chief Deputy Sheriff Lindal Hall of the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office passed away from COVID-19. Oklahoma also lost Tulsa County Corporal John Okafor, Bryan County Deputy Jarid Taylor, and Canadian County Lieutenant Shirley Lanning.
As part of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson and Law Enforcement Coordinator Chris Witt will attend several memorial ceremonies in northeastern Oklahoma, honoring law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.
- Johnson will attend the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office memorial in Chandler Park on May 13. He previously attended the Tulsa Police Department memorial ceremony and was the keynote speaker at the Tulsa Honor Guard’s 50th Anniversary Celebration.
- Witt will represent the U.S. Attorney’s Office at memorial ceremonies throughout the week: Bartlesville Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office - May 12; Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office - May 13; and Creek County Sheriff’s Office -May 13. Witt also attended the Oklahoma Law Enforcement, Oklahoma City Police Department, and Tulsa Police Department memorial ceremonies.
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.
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.
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 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.
To learn more about National Police Week in-person events scheduled for October, please visit www.policeweek.org.
Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler 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.”
“There is no harder job in America today than being a police officer and these dedicated public servants deserve our admiration and gratitude,” stated Acting United States Attorney Brandler. “Every time a police officer puts on his or her uniform they put their lives at risk. No other profession requires that type of personal sacrifice and courage. On behalf of the United States Attorney’s Office, I want to express my sincere appreciation for everything they do to make our communities safer.”
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 Middle District of Pennsylvania, two 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, including two officers from the Middle District of Pennsylvania, 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 Bridget M. Brennan Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan is encouraging residents in the Northern District of Ohio to recognize the service of law enforcement officers and to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice protecting and serving our communities. National Police Week is observed from 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.”
“We should be eternally grateful to the courageous men and women who serve in law enforcement,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bridget M. Brennan. “During National Police Week, we honor those officers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty, all officers who continue to selflessly serve and protect our communities and the families and friends who also serve and sacrifice for us all.”
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 the 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 live-streamed 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.
Acting U.s. Attorney Shier Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shier, IV recognized 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.”
“Making the commitment to serve your community is the first of many sacrifices that members of law enforcement choose to make when they turn to public service,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Shier. “The work that follows is demanding, persistent, and hazardous; but without that service and sacrifice, our communities become less safe and less resilient. National Police Week reminds us to collectively reflect on the sacrifices of members of law enforcement and allows us to show our sincere appreciation for the service they provide to our communities.”
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 Kentucky, one officer died in the line of duty, due 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.
Acting U.s. Attorney Saima Mohsin Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
DETROIT— In honor of National Police Week, Acting U.S. Attorney Saima Mohsin 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.”
“On behalf of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, we salute the men and women in blue who risk their lives each and every day to keep the citizens of Michigan safe,” said Acting US Attorney Mohsin. “We are profoundly grateful to you for your dedication and commitment to protect and serve, and we commend you for your unwavering bravery and courage when confronting danger to keep us out of harm’s way.”
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 Michigan, eight 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 Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, Acting United States Attorney Richard G. Frohling of the Eastern District of Wisconsin 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.”
“Every day, members of law enforcement work tirelessly to protect our communities,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Frohling. “Their task is difficult, dangerous, and too often thankless. My colleagues at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and I are grateful every day for the sacrifices of these brave and dedicated men and women, and we honor and remember those who have endured injury or lost their lives while seeking to keep all of us safe.”
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. In Wisconsin, this included Dane County Sheriff’s Deputy Richard Treadwell, who died in August 2020 from complications due 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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For further information contact:
414-297-1700
Friday 7 May 2021
Worcester Man Indicted for Firearm and Ammunition OffenseRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Worcester man was indicted by a federal grand jury yesterday on a firearm and ammunition offense.
Ahmed Sullay, 25, was indicted on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to charging documents, on Nov. 18, 2020, Sullay was arrested by police for possessing a loaded Jimenez Arms pistol. Sullay is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior convictions.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of up to ten 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. 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.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Williamsburg Wellness Center Owner Indicted for $2 Million Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment yesterday charging a Williamsburg wellness center owner with defrauding Virginia Medicaid and other health care programs out of over $2 million.
“The defendant allegedly defrauded health care programs and the government by submitting false claims and engaging in multiple overbilling schemes,” said Raj Parekh, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “EDVA remains committed to holding accountable anyone who undermines the integrity of our health care system, including the Virginia Medicaid program, which is designed to subsidize critical health care coverage for those who need it most.”
According to the indictment, Maria Kokolis, 45, of Williamsburg, owned and operated Pamisage, Inc., a center for integrative behavioral health and medicine, with a focus on weight management issues. Beginning in or about 2018, and continuing through February 2020, Kokolis executed a scheme to defraud and overbill various health care benefit programs and the Virginia Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid). She did so by charging 45 minutes to an hour of face-to-face psychotherapy services for noncomparable services like sending messages through the company’s smartphone app or monitoring a client’s data. Kokolis billed these psychotherapy services for times when she was out of the country on vacation and when the clients were out of state or sick in the hospital. The overbilling became so extensive, the indictment alleges, that on 332 separate occasions, Kokolis billed for services that exceeded 24 hours in a single day.
According to the indictment, Kokolis used the names, Medicaid ID numbers, and other identifying information of her clients in submitting these false claims to the health care benefit programs. Kokolis received a total of at least $2,189,342 in fraudulent health care benefit program reimbursements, a portion of which came from the U.S. government.
Kokolis is charged with health care fraud and aggravated identity theft. If convicted, she faces a maximum of ten years in prison for each health care fraud count, and a mandatory sentence of two years in prison for each aggravated identity theft count. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Raj Parekh, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Brian Dugan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; and Mark R. Herring, Attorney General of Virginia, made the announcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph L. Kosky and Clare P. Wuerker are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-55.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
White Earth Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Augustus Quintrell Light, 40, pleaded guilty yesterday to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, on December 7, 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in Bemidji, Minnesota, where Light was located. At the time, Light had in his possession over 50 grams of pure methamphetamine, which he was planning to distribute, a digital scale and three rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. Law enforcement also executed a search warrant at Light’s residence in Naytahwaush, Minnesota, and recovered, from a locked safe, small quantities of controlled substances, $4800 in cash, and three rounds of .45 caliber ammunition.
Acting U.S. Attorney W. Anders Folk for the District of Minnesota made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Paul A. Magnuson accepted the plea.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by Beltrami County Attorney, the Mahnomen County Attorney, the Paul Bunyan Task Force, the Bemidji Police Department, the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Department, the Mahnomen County Sheriff’s Department, and the White Earth Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander Chiquoine and Ruth Shnider are prosecuting the case.
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Wesley Chapel Man Indicted for Enticing A Minor Child to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Karin Hoppmann announces the return of an indictment charging Clayton Everett Colborn (29, Wesley Chapel), also known as Jason Rich, with enticement and coercion of a minor to engage in sexual activity. If convicted, Colborn faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison, and a potential life term of supervised release. The indictment also notifies Colborn that the United States intends to forfeit his electronic devices and his Chevrolet Corvette, items that Colborn had used in the commission of this offense.
According to the indictment, in or around January 2020 and continuing through February 3, 2020, Colborn knowingly persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced an individual under the age of 16 year to engage in sexual activity.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Ocoee Police Department, and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lisa M. Thelwell.
Anyone with information regarding Clayton Everett Colborn, also known as “Jason Rich,” should contact the Tampa Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 813-253-1000.
This is another case 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.
USDA Official Admits Receiving Bribes in Exchange for Preferential Treatment in the Award of Security ContractsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Richard Holman, a 69-year-old Virginia resident and former Chief of the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Coordination, Physical Security Division, pled guilty today in federal court in the District of Columbia to one count of bribery.
According to court papers, between July 2013 and December 2015, Eric Schneider and Communications Resources, Inc. (CRI) gave Holman and other USDA officials Corvette wheels, concert tickets, PGA tour tickets, meals, alcohol, strip clubs, parking, concierge medical services, prescription drugs, and other cash tips. In exchange, Holman gave Eric Schneider and CRI preferential treatment in the award of USDA contracts worth over $19 million. As part of the scheme, CRI employees drafted procurement documents in such a way as to favor the award of a multi-million dollar contract to CRI, and USDA officials used the documents in the procurement process as if they prepared them.
Holman pled guilty in United States District Court for the District of Columbia. United States District Judge Carl J. Nichols is presiding over the case. Sentencing is scheduled for August 10, 2021. The maximum penalty for bribery is 15 years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 or twice the pecuniary gain or loss of the offense. Schneider plead guilty to conspiracy and obstruction for his role in the scheme last year.
The Washington Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Beltsville Field Office of the United States Department of Agriculture, Office of the Inspector General (OIG) investigated the case, along with assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services OIG, the Department of State OIG and the Small Business Administration OIG. Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth Aloi of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section is prosecuting the case.
Two South Jersey Men Charged with Making and Selling Homemade Handguns and Machine GunsRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – Two South Jersey men were arrested for conspiring to manufacture and distribute firearms, including machine guns, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced today.
David Bibler, 55, of Haddon Heights, New Jersey, and Francis Hillsee, 36, of Mt. Laurel, New Jersey, are each charged by complaint with conspiring to manufacture and distribute firearms without a license and possession of a machinegun. Hillsee was also charged with unlawful possession of ammunition by a felon. Bibler appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ann Marie Donio in Camden federal court on May 6, 2021, and was detained. Hillsee is currently in custody on an unrelated matter and will have his initial appearance at a future date.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From December 2020 to February 2021, Bibler was identified as a firearms manufacturer who offered for sale homemade firearms, including fully automatic pistols and rifles, as well as silencers. Hillsee was identified as Bibler’s conspirator, orchestrating sales and pricing. Bibler and Hillsee manufactured and sold 12 firearms, including two fully automatic pistols and one fully automatic rifle, and one silencer. Hillsee also sold boxes of ammunition. When he was arrested, Bibler had in his home eight firearms, including rifles and pistols, as well as firearm manufacturing equipment, explosive powder, and a large amount of ammunition.
Each count of conspiring to engage in the business of manufacturing and distributing firearms without a license carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Each count of possession of a machinegun carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The possession of ammunition by a felon charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Camden Field Office of the Newark Field Division, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge of Craig B. Kailimai; the Drug Enforcement Administration, Camden Resident Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson; the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan; the Gloucester Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief David J. Harkins; the Haddon Heights Police Department under the direction of Chief Michael Scardino; the Mt. Laurel Police Department under the direction of Chief Steve Riedener; and the Gloucester City Police Department under the direction of Chief Brian Morrell, with the investigation leading to the charges.
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 Alisa Shver of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Camden.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaints are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Dominican Nationals Sentenced for Drug and Identity Theft ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two Dominican nationals were sentenced yesterday on drug and aggravated identity theft charges in connection with their roles in a fentanyl conspiracy.
Gregorio Andres Gonsalez Sepulveda, 47, a Dominican national previously residing in Revere, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Mark L. Wolf to seven years in prison and four years of supervised release. In January 2020, Gonsalez Sepulveda pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, three counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, five counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, one count of false representation of a Social Security number and one count of aggravated identity theft.
Sandy Alejandro Reynoso Cruz, 48, a Dominican national residing in Waterbury, Conn., was sentenced by Judge Wolf to seven years in prison and four years of supervised release. In December 2020, Reynoso Cruz pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, one count of false representation of a Social Security number and one count of aggravated identity theft.
Gonsalez Sepulveda made six sales of fentanyl to a cooperating witness in Revere. Cruz was Gonsalez Sepulveda’s supplier. In addition, both defendants used stolen identities and Social Security numbers when applying for Massachusetts driver’s licenses in 2017.
Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Theodore Heinrich of Mendell’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Twin Brothers Sentenced for Major Fraud Against the GovernmentRead the Press Release
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. –Today, Rahim and Karim Sadruddin, 35, were sentenced to 50 months imprisonment by the Honorable Travis McDonough, United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
As part of the plea agreement filed with the court, the Sadruddins each agreed to plead guilty to an Information charging them with two counts of wire fraud involving a Presidentially declared major disaster and emergency in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1956(h) and 1957. The Sadruddins were charged as part of a scheme greater than $30 million to defraud the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”), Tennessee Valley Authority (“TVA”), and the state of Tennessee related to the procurement of tarps for hurricane victims in Puerto Rico, and the fraudulent acquisition of state and federal grant funds for the purpose of establishing a textile manufacturing plant in Pikeville.
Judge McDonough sentenced each defendant to 50 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, and $300 in special assessments. Moreover, as part of their guilty pleas and plea agreements with the United States, the defendants will forfeit numerous items, including houses, a vehicle, bank accounts, and other items of personal property that were obtained with proceeds of the fraud; they will also be required to pay full restitution in the amount of over $7 million to the State of Tennessee, TVA, and FEMA.
From April 2017 through January 2019, the Sadruddins devised and participated in a scheme first to defraud the state of Tennessee and TVA by providing false information to win a bid for over $3 million worth of grants to build a textile manufacturing plant and provide jobs to the citizens of Pikeville in Bledsoe County. Once they began to wrongfully receive the Tennessee and TVA grant funds, they used the money to buy tarps in order to satisfy a separate $30 million contract with FEMA, in which they pledged to provide tarps to citizens in Puerto Rico following the devastating hurricanes in that region – Hurricane Maria and Hurricane Irma. As part of the contract, the defendants pledged to obtain tarps from Trade Agreements Act (TAA)-compliant countries and to provide tarps that met FEMA specifications. Instead, the defendants used the funds fraudulently obtained from the state of Tennessee and TVA to purchase tarps from China – a non-TAA-compliant country – that did not meet the contract specifications. The defendant’s falsified records suggesting they had legally procured the tarps and that the tarps met the agreed-upon specifications. Subsequent inspection of the tarps and documentation the defendants provided revealed the existence of the fraud and the non-compliance with the specifications of the contract. Once the fraud was uncovered, FEMA was forced to halt performance of the contract, and only a fraction of the tarps intended for the hurricane victims reached Puerto Rico.
The sentencing was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Tennessee Francis M. Hamilton III.
“These defendants defrauded federal agencies and the citizens of Tennessee. Their duplicity deprived the victims of the hurricanes in Puerto Rico necessary equipment. The sentences imposed today reflect the seriousness of their crimes and our office’s commitment to prosecute those engaged in major fraud offenses,” said Acting United States Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III.
“Today's sentencing announcement is significant and highlights the FBI's collaboration with our partner agencies as we hold these defendants accountable for knowingly and wittingly creating a fraudulent and deceptive scheme against the citizens of Tennessee. We remain committed to aggressively pursue those whose intent is to victimize the very ones they proclaim they want to help,” said Special Agent in Charge, Joe Carrico of the FBI field Office.
“TVA strives to better the lives of the people of the Tennessee Valley through many means, including economic development grants aimed at bringing investment and good jobs to the region. The TVA OIG would like to thank the United States Attorney’s Office, specifically Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Neff, Tennessee Comptroller’s Office, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Department of Homeland Security OIG for working hand in hand with our office to investigate this fraudulent activity. Federal and State partners have a direct stake in ensuring that neither taxpayer nor Valley ratepayer funds are used for fraudulent purposes, and we are pleased that those who would defraud TVA and the people of the Tennessee Valley will see that such a choice comes with consequences,” said Jill Matthews, Deputy Inspector General Performing the Duties of the Inspector General of the TVA’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG).
“DHS OIG remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify and investigate individuals who scheme to defraud disaster victims. Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that Federal funds intended to help those victims will not fall into the hands of greed-driven criminals,” said Joseph V. Cuffari, Inspector General for the Department of Homeland Security.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee partnered with many other federal, state, and local law enforcement and administrative agencies to conduct the investigation in this case. The agencies involved included the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General (DHS OIG), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Tennessee Valley Authority Office of Inspector General (TVA OIG), Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), Tennessee State Comptroller’s Office, and the 12th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Steven S. Neff and Gretchen Mohr represented the United States.
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Tractor Trailer Driver Charged with Human SmugglingRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO– A Dallas man was arrested last night in San Antonio on federal criminal charges related to his alleged involvement in smuggling a large group of undocumented noncitizens.
According to the criminal complaint filed today, 49-year-old Aron Bernard Griffin was arrested after several concerned community members called 911 to report seeing multiple individuals inside the back of a tractor trailer that Griffin was driving. The tractor trailer was located at a gas station on Interstate Highway 10 East in San Antonio. Forty-one undocumented noncitizens were found at the scene and were detained by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agents.
Griffin admitted to Agents that he had made an agreement with another person to pick up the undocumented individuals in Laredo and transport them to San Antonio in return for financial gain.
Griffin is charged by criminal complaint with one count of violating Title 8, Section 1324, smuggling of undocumented noncitizens. If convicted, Griffin faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Griffin is expected to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Elizabeth S. Chestney today for an initial appearance.
U.S. Attorney Ashley C. Hoff of the Western District of Texas and HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee made the announcement.
HSI is investigating this case with the assistance of the San Antonio Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daphne Newaz is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Stamford Man Charged with Fraudulently Obtaining Nearly $2.9 Million in COVID-19 Relief FundsRead the Press Release
Moustapha Diakhate, 45, of Stamford, was arrested today on a federal criminal complaint charging him with bank fraud and wire fraud offenses related to his receipt of nearly $2.9 million in COVID-19 relief funds guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Today’s announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Leonard C Boyle, Special Agent in Charge Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite of the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General’s Eastern Region, Special Agent in Charge David Sundberg of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Ramsey E. Covington of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England.
Diakhate appeared this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Dave Vatti in Bridgeport and was ordered detained.
In March 2020, the CARES Act provided emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). In April 2020, Congress authorized more than $300 billion in additional PPP funding. The PPP allowed qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive unsecured loans at an interest rate of 1%. PPP loan proceeds must be used by businesses on payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities. The PPP allowed the interest and principal to be forgiven if businesses spent the proceeds on these expenses within a certain period of time of receipt and used at least a certain percentage of the amount to be forgiven for payroll.
The PPP was overseen by the Small Business Administration, which has authority over all PPP loans. Individual PPP loans, however, were issued by private approved lenders, such as Citibank, which received and processed PPP applications and supporting documentation, and then made loans using the lenders’ own funds, which were guaranteed by the SBA.
As alleged in the criminal complaint, Diakhate maintained an ownership or management interest in certain small business entities, including Ansonia Developers LLC, Winsbay Inc., Buyers Association Group LLC, Washington Management LLC and Diakhate Capital, Inc. Beginning in May 2020, Diakhate provided Citibank with false and fraudulent information during the PPP loan application process in order to obtain PPP loans for each of his five entities totaling $2,897,100. Diakhate then used a portion of the funds for various personal expenses, including to pay off a loan he had been provided to purchase of a 2010 Porsche Panamera Turbo, and to purchase both a Mercedes and BMW. He also purchased a $50,000 certificate of deposit with PPP funds, and disbursed funds to various and individuals unrelated to his business entities.
“Congress authorized the Paycheck Protection Program to help small businesses and their employees withstand a devastating pandemic, not so individual recipients can illegally reap a financial windfall,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Leonard C Boyle. “The Justice Department and our federal law enforcement partners are actively working to identify those who are taking advantage of COVID relief programs to line their pockets in violation of the law, and we will ensure that wrongdoers are prosecuted in federal court.”
“Making false statements to fraudulently obtain PPP funds is unacceptable,” said SBA OIG’s Eastern Region Special Agent in Charge Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite. “SBA OIG will relentlessly pursue evidence of fraud against SBA’s programs aimed at assisting the nation’s small businesses struggling with the pandemic challenges. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its leadership and dedication to pursuing justice.”
“I commend the diligent efforts by all involved in this significant investigation of COVID-19 relief fraud,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge David Sundberg. “This level of deceit must face the full gravity of the judicial system.”
“These charges demonstrate our continued commitment to hold accountable those who attempt to defraud pandemic-related assistance allegedly to fund their luxurious lifestyles,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ramsey E. Covington of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. “We will continue to collaborate across agency lines to combat this self-serving type of fraud to ensure that these funds are used for their stated purposes and not to enrich the greedy.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Boyle stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher W. Schmeisser.
Individuals with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
St. Thomas Man Convicted of Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced today that a federal jury on St. Thomas convicted 29-year-old Leroy Henry, Jr. yesterday of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was acquitted of a second offense of being a felon in possession of ammunition. At the conclusion of the trial, Henry was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service, pending his sentencing.
According to evidence presented at trial, an anonymous Crime Stoppers tip stated that Leroy Henry, Jr., a convicted felon, possessed a hidden compartment in his blue Infiniti, where he maintained an unregistered firearm that he planned to use to exact revenge on his brother’s murderer. This tip led to the FBI executing a search warrant on January 14, 2020. Agents searched Leroy Henry, Jr.’s car and, in a hidden compartment underneath his center console cupholders, located a fully loaded .23 Glock pistol, along with two magazines, one of which was extended.
During a subsequent interview, Leroy Henry, Jr. acknowledged to the agents that he had previously obtained it from a friend.
DNA samples collected from the gun were compared to a sample of Henry’s DNA. An FBI forensic examiner testified at the trial that the DNA analysis revealed that it was 78 septillion times more likely that Henry’s DNA was present on the Glock confiscated from his vehicle.
The Virgin Islands Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meredith J. Edwards and George Andrew Massucco-LaTaif are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and community leaders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. For more information on the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods, please see: https://www.justice.gov/psn.
Springfield Woman Sentenced for Tax Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Missouri, woman was sentenced in federal court today for her role in a conspiracy, led by a Christian County Jail inmate, to fraudulently claim more than $51,000 in income tax refunds.
Heather Nicole Neal, 35, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to two years and six months in federal prison without parole.
On Sept. 17, 2020, Neal pleaded guilty to her role in a conspiracy to defraud the government. Neal admitted that she conspired with John Dennis Sedersten, an inmate in the Christian County Jail in Ozark, Mo., and other co-conspirators to file fraudulent tax returns. All false claims but one were halted by the IRS, and the one refund issued was recovered by law enforcement agents.
Sedersten organized and led the conspiracy from within the jail. He provided his co-conspirators with specific instructions regarding how to complete and file the false federal income tax returns. The fraudulent tax returns included false W-2 information, listing employers who did not employ the individual listed on the return, and reporting wages not earned, employment taxes not withheld, and business expenses not incurred by the individual. Sedersten provided them with the EIN for JDS Enterprises, a company registered to Sedersten, under which they could report the false wages and withholdings.
Neal filed a tax return under her own name that fraudulently claimed a refund of $9,864.
Co-defendant Janet Renea Kirby, 34, of Springfield, has also pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing. Kirby filed a tax return under her own name that fraudulently claimed a refund of $18,427.
Sedersten, who pleaded guilty in a separate but related case, admitted that conspirators filed fraudulent returns that sought a total of $373,372 in refunds. Sedersten was sentenced on Aug. 17, 2016, to six years and six months in federal prison without parole for his role in the conspiracy.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey Clark and Steven Mohlhenrich. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation.
Serial Bank Robber Sentenced in Maryland to More Than 12 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – U.S. District Judge George L. Russell sentenced Fletcher Dorsett, age 53, of Salisbury, Maryland to 150 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for a series of nine bank robberies and attempted robberies. Dorsett continued to commit robberies while on escape status from a halfway house after his release for a previous federal bank robbery conviction.
The sentence was announced by Acting United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Jonathan F. Lenzner; Acting Special Agent in Charge Rachel Byrd of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office. Chief Melissa R. Hyatt of the Baltimore County Police Department; Commissioner Michael Harrison of the Baltimore Police Department; Chief Edward Jackson of the Annapolis Police Department; Interim Chief Hector Velez of the Prince George’s County Police Department; and Chief Robert J. Contee, III of the Metropolitan Police Department.
According to his guilty plea, Dorsett was previously convicted of federal bank robbery charges, sentenced to eight years in prison, and placed at a halfway house in May of 2019. On July 25, 2019, Dorsett did not return to the halfway house and was placed in escape status. Dorsett was subsequently arrested on a warrant relating to that escape on August 9, 2019, and held at Piedmont Regional Jail in Virginia until he was released on September 24, 2019.
Dorsett admitted that he robbed a bank in Baltimore on July 29, 2019, while he was on escape status. After his arrest and release on September 24, 2019, Dorsett continued to rob banks in Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Prince Georges County, and Washington, D.C., and attempted to rob two other banks. In all of these bank robberies, Dorsett used a note that threatened that he had a gun. Specifically, between September 26 and October 28, 2019, Dorsett robbed banks in Washington, D.C., and in Baltimore, Annapolis, and Nottingham, Maryland, and attempted to rob banks in Lanham, Maryland and Washington, D.C.
As Dorsett left the bank in Nottingham on October 28, 2019, an off-duty police officer who happened to be in the bank pursued and detained him until on-duty Baltimore County Police officers arrived and arrested him. Dorsett agreed to be interviewed by law enforcement and admitted to robbing the nine above-referenced banks in Maryland and Washington, DC. Dorsett also identified himself in various bank surveillance images captured during the robberies.
Acting United States Attorney Jonathan F. Lenzner praised the FBI, and the Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Annapolis, Prince George’s County and Metropolitan Police Departments for their work in the investigation and thanked the State’s Attorneys for Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Prince George’s County, and Anne Arundel County, and the U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution. Mr. Lenzner thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Judson T. Mihok, who prosecuted the federal case.
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San Angelo Tax Preparers Charged with Scamming IRSRead the Press Release
Four San Angelo tax preparers have been charged with submitting fraudulent tax returns to the IRS, announced Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Prerak Shah.
On Wednesday, April 14 2021, a federal grand jury indicted Hugo Cesar Granados, the 60-year-old manager of Columbia Tax Service, his adult daughter, Blanca L. Granados, his adult son, Hugo Alberto Granados, and his employee, Saul Garcia-Soto, on one count each of conspiracy to defraud the United States and several counts each of aiding in the preparation of false documents. Hugo Cesar Granados, Blanca Granados, and Hugo Alberto Granados surrendered themselves to IRS – Criminal Investigations and U.S. Marshals on Thursday afternoon. Saul Garcia-Soto remains a fugitive.
According to the indictment, the elder Mr. Granados and his co-conspirators falsified their clients’ individual income tax returns, Forms 1040, in order to inflate the clients’ tax refunds. As a member of the IRS’ Refund Transfer Program, Columbia Tax Service did not charge the taxpayers anything upfront, but took their preparation fee from the refund before the remainder was issued to the taxpayer. Mr. Granados created a training manual that instructed his employees how to file fraudulent tax returns.
Mr. Granados and his co-conspirators allegedly fabricated clients’ Schedule A, itemized deductions, and Schedule C, sole proprietorship profit and loss statements. They routinely claimed the taxpayer owned a business when no such business existed, claimed unreimbursed employee expenses such as travel and per diem, and claimed business expenses related to maintenance, utilities, supplies, insurance, and professional services that were never incurred.
From 2013 to 2017, the conspirators submitted numerous fraudulent tax returns, resulting in an estimated $18 million in tax losses to the government.
“These defendants brazenly fabricated clients’ financial statements and submitted them to the IRS, resulting in artificially inflated refunds,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Prerak Shah. “Conduct like this is a slap in the face to the many hardworking Americans who pay their taxes dutifully every year. We will not stand for tax fraud, especially by authorized tax preparers.”
“These defendants made a profit by falsifying their client’s tax returns without concern of the repercussions and now face the true costs of their actions in court,” said IRS - CI Acting Special Agent in Charge Jerry Gomez of the Dallas Field Office.
An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
If convicted, Hugo Cesar Granados faces up to 14 years in federal prison; Blanca Granados faces up to 14 years; Hugo Alberto Granados faces up to 17 years; and Saul Garcia-Soto faces up to 20 years.
IRS – Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation. The San Angelo Division of the Northern District of Texas is prosecuting the case.
Rock Island Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – On Tuesday, May 4, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Christopher Mateo Perez, age 29, of Rock Island, to 180 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Perez was ordered to serve three years of supervised release to follow his prison term as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
In August of 2019 Perez was arrested on an outstanding warrant. A search warrant was conducted on Perez’s residence and officers located a loaded Glock 17 nine-millimeter pistol and various items consistent with drug trafficking. The gun contained 17 rounds of ammunition and had been reported stolen. Perez admitted the firearm belonged to him. At the time, Perez knew he was a convicted felon, therefore he was prohibited from possessing firearms.
This matter was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, 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.
Rochester Man Sentenced to 260 Months in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Rochester man was sentenced today to 260 months in prison followed by eight years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents, from May 2019 through August 2019, John Willis Netherton, 40, was part of a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. As part of the conspiracy, the defendant coordinated and facilitated the delivery of methamphetamine from his co-conspirator Miguel Zamora. Netherton also distributed methamphetamine to sub-distributors. Netherton collected funds from the sale of methamphetamine, which in part were ultimately sent back to the defendant’s source of supply.
John Willis Netherton, also known as “Big John,” also known as “Wicked One,” pleaded guilty on September 4, 2020, to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Previously on August 24, 2020, co-conspirator Jacob Paul Williams was sentenced to 180 months imprisonment and five years of supervised release. On August 28, 2020, co-conspirator Miguel Angel Cuevas Zamora was sentenced to 120 years imprisonment and two years of supervised release. Co-conspirators Joshua Alexander Sazo, Nicholas John Hanson, Jason Edwards Hoffman, Deja Lee Benton, Andrew Robert Berndt, and Kayleigh Rea Todd have all pleaded guilty and are pending sentencing.
Acting U.S. Attorney W. Anders Folk for the District of Minnesota made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Susan Richard Nelson sentenced the defendant.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Rochester Police Department, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Southeast Minnesota Violent Crimes Enforcement Team, the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office, the South Central Drug Investigation Unit, and the Minnesota State Patrol.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen A. Slaughter, Jr. is prosecuting the case.
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Railroad Inspector Charged with Lying About InspectionsRead the Press Release
A Federal Railroad Administration inspector has been charged with lying on official documents, announced Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Prerak Shah.
Tremelle Sykes, 54, was indicted Tuesday on eight counts of false statements. He will make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge David Horan Friday morning.
According to the indictment, Mr. Sykes was employed by the FRA as a Hazardous Materials Safety Inspector assigned to inspect northeast Texas railroads and shippers for compliance with regulations pertaining to the transport of hazardous materials such as ethanol, crude oil, and other toxic or poisonous substances.
On at least eight occasions, Mr. Sykes allegedly falsified inspection reports, claiming to have conducted inspections that never actually occurred. The reports, filed over the course of six months in early 2019, covered railyard companies in Dallas, Fort Worth, Garland, Cleburne, Gunter, and Saginaw.
An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Like all defendants, Mr. Sykes is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
If convicted, he faces up to 40 years in federal prison, five years per count.
The Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Bunch is prosecuting the case.
Physician Indicted in $6 Million Medicare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A California woman was arrested Thursday in Los Angeles on criminal health care fraud charges arising from her false home health certifications and related fraudulent billings to Medicare.
According to court documents, Lilit Gagikovna Baltaian, 58, of Porter Ranch, operated two medical clinics in the Los Angeles area. From approximately January 2012 to July 2018, Baltaian allegedly falsely certified patients to receive home health care from at least four Los Angeles area home health agencies. Baltaian’s false certifications were used by the home health agencies to fraudulently bill Medicare for the unnecessary home health care. Baltaian allegedly received a cash benefit related to these referrals and also submitted claims to Medicare for signing the fraudulent certifications and for patient visits and injections that were not needed and/or provided.
As further alleged in court documents, between January 2012 and July 2018, four home health agencies used Baltaian’s false certifications to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare, resulting in a total of approximately $6,029,674 paid on those claims.
Baltaian is charged with four counts of health care fraud. If convicted, Baltaian faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Nicholas L. McQuaid of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Tracy L. Wilkison of the Central District of California; Assistant Director in Charge Kristi Koons Johnson of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Timothy DeFrancesca of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Los Angeles Regional Office made the announcement.
The FBI and HHS-OIG are investigating the case, which was charged as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, under the supervision of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program nearly $19 billion.
Trial Attorney Emily Culbertson of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Pennsylvania Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Offense Against A MinorRead the Press Release
BECKLEY, W.Va. – A Pennsylvania man pleaded guilty today to travel in interstate commerce to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor. Gregory Thomas O’Connor, 47, of Stahlstown, Pennsylvania was charged by a single-count Information in April 2021.
According to the plea agreement, O’Connor admitted that on August 7, 2020, he initiated contact with a person on a Kik Messaging group for West Virginia teens. Believing a person to be a 13-year-old girl from Beckley, O’Connor engaged in conversations over the next six weeks wherein he told the minor he wanted to meet her to engage in sexual activity. O’Connor also coached her on masturbation and watching pornography in order to prepare for their sexual encounter. On September 2, 2020, O’Connor intended to travel to Beckley to meet the minor. He drove from Pennsylvania to Fairmont, but then had to turn around due to a work emergency. Following that time, he continued to discuss traveling at a future date to meet the girl for sexual activity.
If the plea agreement is accepted by the Court, O’Connor will be sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 15 years of supervised release when he is sentenced in September 2021. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald is handling the prosecution.
The FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force handled the investigation. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk presided over the hearing.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:21-cr-00073.
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Ohio man sentenced to prison for mailing explicit threats to judgesRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Shawn R. Marshall, 40, formerly of Akron, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 46 months in prison for mailing threatening communications from prison.
In 2016, Marshall was incarcerated with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction in Lucasville, Ohio, serving a 16-year sentence for rape and kidnapping.
According to court documents, in April 2016, Marshall mailed a letter to a judge in Hamilton, Ohio, which contained the following threat: “In the name of Allah, I am going to hunt you down and cut your f***ing head off.” The letter was signed, “ISIS.”
In June 2016, Marshall mailed a second threatening letter, this time to the Ohio Supreme Court, threatening to rape the female justices on the Court. Marshall included a drawing of an anarchist symbol that matches a tattoo on his chest, and also put bodily fluids wrapped in plastic in the envelope to help identify himself and make the threat more credible. DNA testing confirmed the bodily fluids belonged to Marshall.
During law enforcement interviews, Marshall also admitted to sending threats to media outlets in Dayton and Cincinnati. Additionally, he admitted sending a letter to a Cleveland, Ohio, courthouse that included a mouse head.
Vipal J. Patel, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Chris Hoffman, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division, announced the sentence imposed by U.S. District Judge Edmund A. Sargus, Jr. Assistant Deputy Criminal Chief Jessica W. Knight is representing the United States in this case.
North Carolina Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding IRS and Co-Conspirator Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
A North Carolina return preparer was sentenced today to 22 months in prison for conspiring to defraud the IRS and one of her co-conspirators pleaded guilty on Wednesday for her role in the scheme.
Karen Marie Jones of Durham, North Carolina, was sentenced today to conspiring to defraud the United States. According to court documents and statements made in court, Jones owned Jones and Stone Taxes, a tax preparation business in Durham. From 2012 through 2017, Jones and two other return preparers at Jones and Stone, Andrea Marie Pasley and Audrey Renetta Odom, conspired to prepare false returns for clients. The returns fraudulently lowered the clients’ tax liabilities or inflated their refunds by claiming false education credits or dependents or by manipulating the clients’ income to qualify for larger earned income tax credits. Under the scheme, some clients were charged up to $3,000 for preparing returns. Based on an analysis of the falsely claimed education credits, the tax loss is approximately $1.2 million.
Pasley pleaded guilty Wednesday for her role in the scheme, and is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 11. She faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Odom previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the IRS in December 2020, and is scheduled to be sentenced in June 2021.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Catherine C. Eagles ordered Jones to serve three years of supervised release and to pay approximately $1,264,493 in restitution to the United States.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Hairston for the Middle District of North Carolina made the announcement.
IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant Chief Todd Ellinwood and Trial Attorney Kavitha Bondada of the Tax Division prosecuted the case.
North Carolina Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding IRS and Co-Conspirator Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A North Carolina return preparer was sentenced today to 22 months in prison for conspiring to defraud the IRS and one of her co-conspirators pleaded guilty on Wednesday for her role in the scheme.
Karen Marie Jones of Durham, North Carolina, was sentenced today to conspiring to defraud the United States. According to court documents and statements made in court, Jones owned Jones and Stone Taxes, a tax preparation business in Durham. From 2012 through 2017, Jones and two other return preparers at Jones and Stone, Andrea Marie Pasley and Audrey Renetta Odom, conspired to prepare false returns for clients. The returns fraudulently lowered the clients’ tax liabilities or inflated their refunds by claiming false education credits or dependents or by manipulating the clients’ income to qualify for larger earned income tax credits. Under the scheme, some clients were charged up to $3,000 for preparing returns. Based on an analysis of the falsely claimed education credits, the tax loss is approximately $1.2 million.
Pasley pleaded guilty Thursday for her role in the scheme and is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 11. She faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Odom previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the IRS in December 2020 and is scheduled to be sentenced in June 2021.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Catherine C. Eagles ordered Jones to serve three years of supervised release and to pay approximately $1,264,493 in restitution to the United States.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Hairston for the Middle District of North Carolina made the announcement.
IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Assistant Chief Todd Ellinwood and Trial Attorney Kavitha Bondada of the Tax Division prosecuted the case.
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Nineteen Brazilian Nationals Charged in Nationwide Conspiracy to Open Fraudulent Driver Accounts at Leading Rideshare and Delivery Service CompaniesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Nineteen Brazilian nationals were charged today with engaging in a nationwide conspiracy to set up fraudulent driver accounts with multiple rideshare and delivery service companies using stolen identities, and to rent or sell those accounts to drivers who might not otherwise qualify to drive for those services.
The alleged scheme also involved using the fraudulent accounts to exploit the company’s referral bonus programs, and using automated “bots” and GPS spoofing technology to increase the income earned from the fraudulent driver accounts. The government estimates that more than 2,000 victims’ identities were stolen and used as part of the scheme.
“The scheme alleged in today’s charges was extensive, violated customers’ privacy, and enabled unqualified drivers to work for rideshare and food delivery services,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell. “Millions of us rely on these services every day for transportation and to have meals and groceries delivered to our homes. They are an important part of the economy, especially now. We allege that the conspirators took advantage of that by stealing customers’ identities while making deliveries and using those stolen identities to set up fraudulent accounts. That means accounts for unqualified drivers who could not meet minimum qualifications, were not eligible to work in the United States, or could not pass a background check. That’s illegal. I encourage individuals who believe they may be a victim of this fraud to contact my Office.”
“These individuals are accused of executing a nationwide con in which they dragged thousands of innocent people into their scheme by stealing their identities. They thought it would be an easy way to generate some quick money, but in doing so they potentially compromised public safety by putting people behind the wheel who couldn’t get jobs with these companies on their own,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “This massive fraud ring would have been more difficult to detect without the assistance of the victim companies in this case who are making a good faith effort to root out fraud and enhance their customers’ safety.”
The complaint alleges that beginning by at least January 2019, and continuing through at least April 2021, the defendants conspired with each other and with additional conspirators to defraud at least five different rideshare and delivery companies. The scheme involved obtaining images of victims’ driver’s licenses and Social Security numbers, creating fraudulent driver accounts using these identifiers, and renting or selling those accounts. Generally the accounts were rented or sold to individuals who did not otherwise qualify to drive for the rideshare and delivery services because they did not meet minimum qualifications, were not eligible to work in the United States, or could not pass a background check.
The conspirators allegedly coordinated with each other on the prices they charged drivers to use the fraudulent accounts, and shared tips with each other on how to circumvent the companies’ fraud detection systems. The conspirators are also alleged to have fraudulently obtained referral bonuses from the companies by creating fraudulent driver accounts for the sole purpose of referring other fraudulent driver accounts. The conspirators allegedly used “bots” and GPS spoofing technology to exploit the rideshare and delivery companies’ systems. A “bot” is a software application that runs automated tasks over the Internet. GPS spoofing technology allows a user to fake the user’s location.
As a result of the scheme, Internal Revenue Service Forms 1099 were generated in victims’ names for income the conspirators earned from the rideshare and delivery companies.
The following defendants were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud:
- Wemerson Dutra Aguiar, 25, a Brazilian national formerly residing in Lynn and Woburn, Mass.;
- Priscila Barbosa, 35, a Brazilian national residing in Saugus, Mass.;
- Edvaldo Rocha Cabral, 41, a Brazilian national residing in Lowell, Mass.;
- Clovis Kardekis Placido, 37, a Brazilian national residing in Citrus Heights, Cali.;
- Guilherme Da Silveira, 28, a Brazilian national residing in Revere, Mass.;
- Flavio Candido Da Silva, 35, a Brazilian national residing in Revere, Mass.;
- Altacyr Dias Guimaraes Neto, 34, a Brazilian national residing in Kissimmee, Fla.;
- Bruno Proencio Abreu, 28, a Brazilian national residing in Saugus, Mass.;
- Jordano Augusto Lima Guimaraes, 34, a Brazilian national residing in Salem, Mass.;
- Alessandro Felix Da Fonseca, 25, a Brazilian national residing in Revere, Mass.;
Nine defendants remain at large.
If you believe that you may be a victim of the allegations in this case, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/victim-and-witness-assistance-program/us-v-wemerson-dutra-aguiar-and-us-v-priscila-barbosa-et-al
The charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of 250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting U.S. Attorney Mendell and FBI Boston SAC Bonavolonta made the announcement today. Significant assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police, Concord Police Department, Lexington Police Department, Plymouth Police Department, Wilmington Police Department, Marlborough Police Department, Village of Rye Brook (N.Y.) Police Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the National Crime Insurance Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kristen A. Kearney and David M. Holcomb of Mendell’s Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl and Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A New York man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to heroin and fentanyl possession and distribution charges.
James De La Cruz, 30, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and 400 grams or more of fentanyl and one count of possession with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and 400 grams or more of fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing for Oct. 6, 2021.
In September and October 2019, De La Cruz spoke with a cooperating witness several times and met with the cooperating witness to arrange a large drug shipment from New York to the Boston area. On Oct. 21, 2019, De La Cruz and his co-defendant Juan Santos Roque drove from New York to Peabody, Mass. with approximately 10 kilograms of fentanyl and six kilograms of heroin in a hidden compartment in Santos Roque’s vehicle. After meeting with the cooperating witness, law enforcement agents arrested both men.
Santos Roque pleaded guilty in October 2020 and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 12, 2021.
The charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and 400 grams or more of fentanyl carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
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. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Peabody Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen W. Hassink of Mendell’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
New York Hedge Fund Founder Sentenced for Bankruptcy FraudRead the Press Release
Audrey Strauss, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that DANIEL KAMENSKY, the founder and former manager of New York-based hedge fund Marble Ridge Capital (“Marble Ridge”), was sentenced today in Manhattan federal court to six months in prison for engaging in fraud and extortion to pressure a rival bidder to abandon its higher bid for assets in connection with Neiman Marcus’s bankruptcy proceedings so that Marble Ridge could obtain those assets for a lower price. KAMENSKY pled guilty on February 3, 2021, before United States District Judge Denise L. Cote, who imposed today’s sentence.
U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said: “Daniel Kamensky committed bankruptcy fraud – undermining the integrity of bankruptcy proceedings and violating his fiduciary responsibility – in an effort to take extra profits for himself and his hedge fund. As he himself predicted, this fraud has now landed Daniel Kamensky in prison.”
As alleged in the Complaint, the Information, and statements made in court:
DANIEL KAMENSKY was the principal of Marble Ridge, a hedge fund with assets under management of more than $1 billion that invested in securities in distressed situations, including bankruptcies. Prior to opening Marble Ridge, KAMENSKY worked for many years as a bankruptcy attorney at a well-known international law firm, and as a distressed debt investor at prominent financial institutions.
The Neiman Marcus Bankruptcy
Neiman Marcus, an American chain of luxury department stores with stores located across the United States, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas (the “Bankruptcy Court”) in May 2020. At the outset of the bankruptcy, Marble Ridge, through KAMENSKY, applied to be on the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors (the “Committee”) and was thereafter appointed to be a member of the Committee. As a member of the Committee, KAMENSKY had a fiduciary duty to represent the interests of all unsecured creditors as a group.
During the bankruptcy process, the Committee had negotiated with the owners of Neiman Marcus to obtain certain securities, known as MyTheresa Series B Shares (the “MYT Securities”), and ultimately, the Committee was successful in coming to a settlement to obtain 140 million shares of MYT Securities for the benefit of certain unsecured creditors of the bankruptcy estate. In July 2020, KAMENSKY was negotiating with the Committee for Marble Ridge to offer 20 cents per share to purchase MYT Securities from any unsecured creditor who preferred to receive cash, rather than MYT Securities, as part of that settlement.
Kamensky’s Fraudulent Scheme
On July 31, 2020, KAMENSKY learned that a diversified financial services company headquartered in New York, New York (the “Investment Bank”), had informed the Committee that it was interested in bidding a price between 30 and 40 cents per share – substantially higher than KAMENSKY’s bid – to purchase the MYT Securities from any unsecured creditor who was interested in receiving cash.
That afternoon, KAMENSKY sent messages to a senior trader at the Investment Bank (“IB Employee-1”) telling him not to place a bid, and followed those messages up with a phone call with IB Employee-1 and a senior analyst of the Investment Bank (“IB Employee-2,” and collectively the “Employees”). During that call, KAMENSKY asserted that Marble Ridge should have the exclusive right to purchase MYT Securities, and he threatened to use his official role as co-chair of the Committee to prevent the Investment Bank from acquiring the MYT Securities. KAMENSKY also stated that Marble Ridge had been a client of the Investment Bank in the past but that if the Investment Bank moved forward with its bid, then Marble Ridge would cease doing business with the Investment Bank.
The Investment Bank thereafter decided not to make a bid to purchase MYT Securities and informed the legal adviser to the Committee of its decision. The Investment Bank further told the legal adviser it made that decision because KAMENSKY – a client of the Investment Bank – had asked them not to.
Advisers to the Committee informed counsel for Marble Ridge of their call with the Employees, and after speaking with KAMENSKY, counsel for Marble Ridge falsely informed the advisers that KAMENSKY had not asked the Employees not to bid, but instead had told them to place a bid only if they were serious. Later that evening, KAMENSKY contacted IB Employee-1 and attempted to influence what IB Employee-1 would tell others, including the Committee and law enforcement, about KAMENSKY’s attempt to block the Investment Bank’s bid for the MYT Securities. KAMENSKY said at the outset of the call, in substance, “this conversation never happened.” During the call, KAMENSKY asked IB Employee-1 to say falsely that IB Employee-1 had been mistaken and KAMENSKY had actually suggested that the Investment Bank bid only if it were serious, and made comments including the following: “Do you understand . . . I can go to jail?” “I pray you tell them that it was a huge misunderstanding, okay, and I’m going to invite you to bid and be part of the process.” “But I’m telling you . . . this is going to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. This is going to go to the court.” “[I]f you’re going to continue to tell them what you just told me, I’m going to jail, okay? Because they’re going to say that I abused my position as a fiduciary, which I probably did, right? Maybe I should go to jail. But I'm asking you not to put me in jail.”
During a subsequent interview with the Office of the United States Trustee, which was conducted under oath and in the presence of counsel, KAMENSKY stated that his calls to IB Employee-1 were a “terrible mistake” and “profound errors in lapses of judgment.”
After this series of events, Marble Ridge resigned from the Committee and advised its investors that it intended to begin winding down operations and returning investor capital.
* * *
In addition to his prison term, KAMENSKY, 48, of Roslyn, New York, was sentenced to six months of supervised release on home confinement and ordered to pay a fine of $55,000.
Ms. Strauss praised the work of the FBI. Ms. Strauss further thanked the Office of United States Trustee and the Securities and Exchange Commission for their cooperation and assistance in this investigation.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard Cooper and Daniel Tracer are in charge of the prosecution.
NDTX Round up: April 30 – May 6Read the Press Release
SENTENCING – CHRISTOPHER TRAJUAN COUSINS
On May 5, Christopher Trajuan Cousins, 28, was sentenced to 165 months in federal prison for conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery. In February 2018, Cousins and two co-conspirators robbed a Sprint store in Garland at gunpoint. The co-conspirators stole smartphones valued at approximately $13,000. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Hilliard prosecuted the case.
GUILTY PLEA – OSWALDO AGUILERA-ADAME
On May 4, Oswaldo Aguilera-Adame, 29, pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance. In June 2020, Aguilera-Adame controlled an apartment which received multiple kilograms of shipments of methamphetamine. Agents executed a search warrant of the apartment and arrested Aguilera-Adame outside of the residence. Inside the apartment, law enforcement located 18 kilograms of methamphetamine, 52 quarts of liquid methamphetamine, 24-gallon sized bags of methamphetamine, and $152,840 in drug proceeds. The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Kull is prosecuting the case.
SENTENCING – ARMANDO CONTRERAS-MARTINEZ
On May 5, Armando Contreras-Martinez, 27, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. In July 2018, federal agents executed a search warrant at Contreras-Martinez’s residence. Law enforcement recovered two firearms, 5.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, and equipment used in the methamphetamine conversion process. Additionally, law enforcement located cut-up gas tanks and wheel rims that had been used to transport methamphetamine into the United States. The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanna Etessam prosecuted the case.