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Friday 8 January 2021
United States Attorney Lawrence Keefe Maintains Priority on Seeking Justice and Recovery for Victims of Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – United States Attorney Lawrence Keefe of the Northern District of Florida today announced that a total of 39 defendants were indicted in 2020 on federal charges involving the exploitation of children, ranging from production, distribution, and possession of child pornography to sex trafficking of minors. Highlighting the impact of his office’s work to bring child sex offenders to justice, U.S. Attorney Keefe emphasized his continued commitment to protecting children and guarding our communities.
“Child exploitation cases are not always widely publicized in order to protect the victims and their families, but I have made it one of our highest priorities as we seek to uphold the first duty of government to protect our citizens,” U.S. Attorney Keefe said. “Even COVID-19 has not deterred our efforts to go after sex offenders targeting our children, and we continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to protect vulnerable youth and help them access the resources they need for what is often a long and challenging road to recovery.”
Keefe lauded the dedication of prosecutors and investigators from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies who work tirelessly to secure justice against those who sexually victimize children. He pledged to continue ensuring that federal resources are made available to assist law enforcement partners as they conduct complex investigations to dismantle the networks used by child sex offenders and to pursue, prosecute, and punish those involved.
Keefe credited the success of these 39 indictments in 2020 to the joint efforts of the agencies participating in the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Marshals Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, Levy County Sheriff’s Office, Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Tallahassee Police Department, Gainesville Police Department, Panama City Police Department, and Pensacola Police Department.
In addition to successfully investigating and indicting 39 new cases in 2020, other ongoing cases concluded with defendants receiving significant federal prison sentences. Among the most significant, a Bay County resident was sentenced to 100 years in federal prison for the production and possession of child pornography; a Leon County resident was sentenced to 50 years in federal prison for the production and possession of child pornography; and a Tallahassee resident was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for sex trafficking of a minor and enticement to engage in prostitution.
While seeking the most significant and appropriate sentences for the perpetrators of these insidious crimes, prosecutors work closely with Victim Assistance Specialists, also from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, to ensure that victims of child sex offenses and their family members are treated with sensitivity and care throughout the legal process. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is equally dedicated to helping victims on their path to recovery, connecting them with state and local agencies that provide support and resources as appropriate.
“The evil done by sex offenders against innocent children truly shocks the sensibilities of decent people everywhere,” U.S. Attorney Keefe said. “Our focus is both on punishing the offenders and helping victims find their way back to normal life in our communities.”
Keefe said the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office continues undeterred by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. After a brief pause to implement appropriate COVID-19 safety precautions earlier this year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has continued grand jury operations and criminal jury trials.
These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched by the Department of Justice in 2006. Led by U.S. Attorneys Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Press Release - Project Safe Childhood 2020U.S. Attorney's Office Joins in Recognizing Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, January 9, 2021Read the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—Every January, the U.S. Attorney’s Office joins communities around the state in observing Law Enforcement Appreciation Day to honor the distinguished service and tremendous personal sacrifice of Oregon’s law enforcement officers. This year’s observance takes place on Saturday, January 9, 2021.
“This past year has brought several unprecedented challenges to our country and the law enforcement profession. Working in law enforcement is, now more than ever, one of the hardest and most important jobs in our country. The thousands of men and women who fill these roles do so not for personal accolade or attention, but out of an unwavering sense of duty to the communities they serve,” said U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams. “On behalf of everyone at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we offer our sincere and humble gratitude to law enforcement officers in Oregon and beyond. You play a critical role in keeping our communities safe and working to create a fairer and more equal justice system.”
On January 9, please take a moment to honor those who protect and serve our communities. Your support can be shown in many ways, including:
- By wearing blue clothing;
- Sending a card of support to your local police department or sheriff’s office;
- Sharing a story about a positive law enforcement experience on social media;
- Asking children in your household to write letters in support of law enforcement;
- Organizing an event or rally in support of law enforcement officers; or
- Donating to a charitable organization that supports law enforcement.
Law Enforcement Appreciation Day also affords our community the opportunity to raise awareness of officer safety and wellness issues. Law enforcement as a career path is mentally taxing and subjects its members to disproportionate levels of trauma. Studies have shown that law enforcement officers are at greater risk of heart disease, alcohol abuse, major psychological illnesses, and divorce as compared to other professions.
In September 2020, the Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) announced $4.5 million in grants for the Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act Program. These funds are used to improve the delivery of mental health and wellness services for law enforcement through training, demonstration projects, peer mentoring, and suicide prevention.
The COPS Office and the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) have collected a long list of resources to support local agencies’ officer safety and wellness efforts. To view these resources, click here.
U.S. Attorney Wrigley Announces two Quebec Men Extradited to North Dakota from Canada as part of ‘Operation Denial’Read the Press Release
FARGO – The United States Attorney’s Office, North Dakota, announced that Canadian authorities extradited two alleged members of an international fentanyl trafficking organization.
Acting Assistant Attorney General David P. Burns of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Drew H. Wrigley of the District of North Dakota, and U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams of the District of Oregon made the announcement.
Jason Joey Berry, aka Daniel Desnoyers, 37, of Montreal, Quebec, and Xuan Cahn Nguyen, aka Jackie and Jackie Chan, 41, of Point-Aux-Tremble, Quebec, arrived in North Dakota Wednesday, January 6, 2021, and had their initial appearance and arraignment hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Alice Senechal on January 7, 2021. Their case is assigned to Chief U.S. District Judge Peter D. Welte.
Berry was arrested on Oct. 18, 2019, and Nguyen was arrested on Jan. 16, 2020. Both Berry and Nguyen were ordered surrendered by the Canadian Minister of Justice on Nov. 30, 2020. Berry and Nguyen were extradited in connection with a superseding indictment in the District of North Dakota charging them with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and controlled substance analogues resulting in serious bodily injury and death, and conspiracy to import controlled substances and controlled substance analogues into the United States resulting in serious bodily injury and death. The superseding indictment also charges Nguyen with international money laundering conspiracy.
The extradition comes as part of "Operation Denial," an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation into the international trafficking of fentanyl and other lethal drugs, and was significantly aided by the national and international coordination led by the multi-agency Special Operations Division near Washington D.C. as part of "Operation Deadly Merchant." The investigation started in North Dakota on Jan. 3, 2015, with the overdose death in Grand Forks, North Dakota, of 18-year-old Bailey Henke.
Berry and Nguyen’s alleged co-defendant Daniel Vivas Ceron of Columbia was previously extradited from Panama to North Dakota in 2017. Vivas Ceron pled guilty on July 12, 2019, for his role in operating an international fentanyl trafficking organization from a Canadian prison and is awaiting sentencing.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Grand Forks Narcotics Task Force, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Portland Oregon Police Bureau – Drugs and Vice Division, Portland HIDTA Interdiction Task Force, Oregon State Police, and the Grand Forks Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in bringing Berry and Nguyen to the United States and procuring foreign evidence during the investigation.
Trial Attorney Kaitlin Sahni of the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher C. Myers of the District of North Dakota, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Edmonds of the District of Oregon are prosecuting the cases.
An indictment is merely an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady Engages in Public Outreach Regarding the CDC Order Temporarily Halting Residential EvictionsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - Landlords and tenants in the Western District of Pennsylvania are advised that the federal order issued by the Centers for Disease Control ("CDC") temporarily halting residential evictions of covered persons for nonpayment of rent has been extended to January 31, 2021, U.S. Attorney Scott Brady announced.
On December 27, 2020, the President signed into law the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. That Act extends the expiration date of the CDC Order titled, "Temporary Halt in Residential Evictions to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19" ("CDC Order") through January 31, 2021. That Order provides that a landlord cannot evict any covered person from a residential property for nonpayment of rent between September 4, 2020 and January 31, 2021. In some circumstances, a landlord violating the CDC’s Order may be subject to a $500,000 fine and up to one year in prison.
"Renters in our district who have suffered a substantial loss of household income due to the COVID-19 pandemic are protected from immediate eviction by the CDC Order. While many landlords are working with struggling tenants who are unable to pay rent, others are evicting their tenants for nonpayment of rent during the moratorium period in violation of the CDC Order," stated U.S. Attorney Brady. "These types of violations of federal law will not be tolerated."
U.S. Attorney Brady encourages anyone who has knowledge of a landlord violating the CDC Order to contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania by calling (866) C19-WDPA, that is (866) 219-9372,or emailing [email protected].
U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming Recognizes Law Enforcement Appreciation DayRead the Press Release
Each year, the United States Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Missouri observes Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (LEAD) and this year is no different. On January 9, 2021, the staff will continue celebrating and honoring our brave men and women who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe.
Across the nation, these men and women – representing approximately 17,985 law enforcement agencies -- perform demanding and thankless work at the local, state, tribal and federal levels. Many often respond to and witness some of the most tragic events in our communities such as murder, suicide and domestic violence.
“On behalf of myself and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri, I want to say ‘thank you’ to all of the men and women in uniform. Please know that we appreciate the sacrifices you make for all of us each and every day you leave your loved ones to selflessly and tirelessly protect our communities,” said Sayler A. Fleming, U.S. Attorney of the Eastern District of Missouri. “What you do matters, and it should never go unnoticed. Today and always, you have our unwavering support and respect.”
This office encourages everyone to show support for those who serve and protect. We look forward to continuing our partnership together, in 2021 and beyond, to promote justice and public safety.
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U.S. Attorney Recognizes Law Enforcement Officers During Law Enforcement Appreciation DayRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez recognizes the service of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, which is being observed Saturday, January 9, 2021. On this date, communities across the country will show their appreciation and support for law enforcement agencies and their personnel in various ways.
“I ask that you join me in recognizing the tremendous service and sacrifices that our law enforcement officers have made this past year and make every day,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez. “Together, with our ongoing partnerships, commitment, and dedication, we will continue to work together to ensure that our citizens, here in the Middle District of Florida, are safe and secure.”
As part of this national day of recognition, citizens across the country are encouraged to share their expressions of gratitude and support for local law enforcement agencies, officers, and public safety personnel within their respective communities. Likewise, citizens and officers alike are encouraged to share their positive experiences and collaborations with each other.
The Middle District of Florida serves 35 of the 67 counties in Florida, which is over half the population of Florida. Headquartered in Tampa, five offices are located throughout the district.
U.S. Attorney Recognizes Law Enforcement Officers During Law Enforcement Appreciation DayRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. recognizes the service of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, which is being observed Saturday, January 9, 2021. On this date, communities across the country will show their appreciation and support for law enforcement agencies and their personnel in various ways.
“I ask every citizen of the Eastern District to join me in recognizing the tremendous service and sacrifices that our law enforcement officers have made this past year and make every day,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. “Together, with our ongoing partnerships, commitment, and dedication, we will continue to work together to ensure that our citizens, here in the Eastern District of North Carolina, are safe and secure.”
As part of this national day of recognition, citizens across the country are encouraged to share their expressions of gratitude and support for local law enforcement agencies, officers, and public safety personnel within their respective communities. Likewise, citizens and officers alike are encouraged to share their positive experiences and collaborations with each other.
The Eastern District of North Carolina serves the 44 easternmost counties of North Carolina.
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A copy of this press release is located on our website.
U.S. Attorney John H. Durham Statement on National Law Enforcement Appreciation DayRead the Press Release
We are frequently reminded these days of the difficult challenges faced by law enforcement officers. Tomorrow, January 9, 2021, is National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, a day dedicated to showing our support for law enforcement on the local, state, and federal levels. Created in 2015, this day allows us to voice our appreciation to law enforcement officers for their service to us all.
The United States Attorney’s Office depends on our law enforcement colleagues to protect the American people from crime and violence, to ensure the security of our homeland, and to safeguard the most vulnerable among us. The United States Attorney’s Office thanks the men and women of law enforcement for the dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to the rule of law they display every day.
We invite everyone to join us in celebrating National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day this Saturday, January 9th. Support for law enforcement can be shown in many ways, including:
• Wearing blue clothing
• Sending a card of encouragement and thanks to a local and/or state police department or federal agency
• Sharing a story about a positive experience with law enforcement on social media
• Encouraging your children to write letters in support of law enforcement
• Displaying a blue light in a window or a blue ribbon on the mailbox at home
• Sharing this information with others.Most importantly, if you see a police officer, thank the officer for his or her service to the community.
U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn Recognizes Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, January 9, 2021Read the Press Release
United States Attorney Jason Dunn honors law enforcement officers by observing Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, which is set aside to honor the distinguished service and personal sacrifice of law enforcement officers in Colorado and around the country. This year’s observance takes place on Saturday, January 9, 2021.
“The brave men and women who serve as law enforcement officers are the backbone of justice in our country,” said U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn. “As we saw this past week at our nation’s Capitol, too often law enforcement officers are asked to make the ultimate sacrifice. We mourn the loss of U.S. Capitol Police Officer Brian D. Sicknick, who died from injuries sustained defending the U.S. Capitol on January 6th. For Officer Sicknick and so many others who serve to defend the values we hold dear, we honor your service and sacrifice.”
On January 9, you can take a moment to honor those who protect and serve our communities in a number of ways:
- By wearing blue clothing;
- Sending a card of support to your local police department or sheriff’s office;
- Sharing a story about a positive law enforcement experience on social media;
- Asking friends and family to write letters in support of law enforcement; or
- Organizing an event in support of law enforcement officers.
Law Enforcement Appreciation Day also affords an opportunity to raise awareness concerning officer safety and wellness issues. Law enforcement is mentally taxing and subjects officers to disproportionate levels of trauma.
Studies have shown that law enforcement officers are at greater risk of heart disease, alcohol abuse, major psychological illnesses, and divorce as compared to other professions. The Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) and the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) have collected resources to support officer safety and wellness. To view these resources, click here.
U.S. Attorney Dunavant Announces That Federal Authorities Are Investigating Any Potential Violations of Federal Law by Residents of Western District of Tennessee at U.S. CapitolRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced today that his office, in coordination with the Memphis Field Division Office of the FBI, will investigate and charge any potential violations of federal law at the United States Capitol Building on Jan. 6, 2021 committed by individuals from the Western District of Tennessee.
"The Department of Justice is committed to ensuring that those responsible for this attack on our Government and the rule of law face the full consequences of their actions under the law. We are working closely with our partners at the FBI, who are actively investigating to gather evidence, identify perpetrators, and charge federal crimes where warranted," Dunavant said. "Any person who traveled from West Tennessee to commit federal crimes in Washington, D.C., as well as anyone who conspired with them or aided or abetted such lawlessness will be aggressively prosecuted by this office."
Individuals in the Western District of Tennessee with any information related to the identity of those involved in the commission of federal crimes at the Capitol are asked to contact the FBI Memphis Field Division Office at 901-747-4300. Additionally, tips may be submitted to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or at fbi.gov/USCapitol.
Dunavant noted federal statutes that may be applicable, including:
• 18 United States Code section 231 – Civil Disorder, which prohibits adversely affecting any federally protected function or obstructing any law enforcement officer from the performance of official duties, or any person who transports a firearm, explosive, or incendiary device to be used in furtherance of civil disorder. This federal crime is punishable by up to five years in prison.
• 18 United States Code section 2101 – The Federal Riot Act, which applies to anyone who travels in interstate commerce to incite, promote, or participate in a riot. This includes anyone who aided or abetted individuals who carried on a riot or committed any act of violence in furtherance of a riot. This federal crime is punishable by up to five years in prison.
• 18 United States Code section 1361 – Damage to Federal Property, which applies to anyone who willfully injures or causes damage to or against any property of the United States. This federal crime is punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
• 18 United States Code section 2383 – Rebellion or Insurrection, which provides that whoever incites, assists or engages in any rebellion or insurrection against the United States faces up to 10 years in prison.
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U.S. Attorney Blader Acknowledges Law Enforcement Appreciation DayRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, joins with Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), and other organizations, in recognizing local, state and federal law enforcement officers on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day tomorrow. The designation of Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on January 9 each year was initiated by C.O.P.S. in 2015 to show support for America’s law enforcement officers.
“It is an honor to recognize and celebrate the men and women who devote their lives to protecting our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “On any given day, they may confront a violent armed offender, assist a victim of human trafficking, respond to a family devastated by drug addiction, or ensure that our children travel to school safely. I ask the citizens of Wisconsin to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to these heroes who protect our schools, workplaces, roads, and homes.”
Since 2015, a number of organizations also have recognized the designation. These organizations include, but are not limited to, the FBI National Academy Associates, the Fraternal Order of Police, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Officer Down Memorial Page, Law Enforcement United, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, International Conference of Police Chaplains, National Troopers Coalition and others.
Individuals may show support for law enforcement on Saturday, January 9 by wearing blue, taking treats to a local department, flying a blue ribbon on a car antenna or mailbox, or by thanking an officer in person.
Two Quebec Men Extradited to North Dakota from Canada as Part of ‘Operation Denial’Read the Press Release
The Department of Justice announced today that Canadian authorities extradited two alleged members of an international fentanyl trafficking organization.
Acting Assistant Attorney General David P. Burns of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Drew H. Wrigley of the District of North Dakota and U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams of the District of Oregon made the announcement.
Jason Joey Berry, aka Daniel Desnoyers, 37, of Montreal, Quebec, and Xuan Cahn Nguyen, aka Jackie, aka Jackie Chan, 41, of Point-Aux-Tremble, Quebec, arrived in North Dakota Wednesday and had their initial court appearance and arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Alice Senechal today. Their case is assigned to Chief U.S. District Judge Peter D. Welte.
Berry was arrested on Oct. 18, 2019, and Nguyen was arrested on Jan. 16, 2020, by Canadian authorities at the request of the United States. Both Berry and Nguyen were ordered surrendered by the Canadian Minister of Justice on Nov. 30, 2020. Berry and Nguyen were extradited in connection with a superseding indictment in the District of North Dakota charging them with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and controlled substance analogues resulting in serious bodily injury and death, and conspiracy to import controlled substances and controlled substance analogues into the United States resulting in serious bodily injury and death. The superseding indictment also charges Nguyen with international money laundering conspiracy.
The extradition comes as part of “Operation Denial,” an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF)-funded investigation into the international trafficking of fentanyl and other lethal drugs, aided by the national and international coordination led by the multi-agency Special Operations Division near Washington D.C. as part of “Operation Deadly Merchant.” The investigation started in North Dakota on Jan. 3, 2015, with the overdose death in Grand Forks, North Dakota, of 18-year-old Bailey Henke.
Berry and Nguyen’s alleged co-conspirator Daniel Vivas Ceron of Columbia was previously extradited from Panama to North Dakota in 2017. Vivas Ceron pleaded guilty on July 12, 2019, for his role in operating an international fentanyl trafficking organization from a Canadian prison and is awaiting sentencing.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Grand Forks Narcotics Task Force, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Portland Oregon Police Bureau – Drugs and Vice Division, Portland HIDTA Interdiction Task Force, Oregon State Police, and the Grand Forks Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in bringing Berry and Nguyen to the United States and procuring foreign evidence during the investigation.
Trial Attorney Kaitlin Sahni of the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher C. Myers of the District of North Dakota, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Edmonds of the District of Oregon are prosecuting the cases.
An indictment is merely an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tulsa Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
A Tulsa man pleaded guilty Thursday to maintaining a drug involved premises and to possession with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores.
Shane McClearan Wright, 44, of Tulsa, pleaded guilty to all five counts of the indictment before U.S. District Court Judge Claire V. Eagan. Wright’s sentencing is scheduled for April 7, 2021.
“Heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine are quite the trifecta of addiction and death to be trafficking. Shane Wright brought these illicit narcotics to Northern Oklahoma and now he is facing the consequences. I appreciate the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations, and local law enforcement for their vigilance to keep dangerous drugs off our streets,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “This is yet another conviction secured by the diligent efforts of our Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel-lyn McCormick. Her vigilance and commitment to enforcing our nation’s drug laws should make traffickers think twice before bringing their illicit business here.”
“Our special agents and dedicated support staff at HSI Tulsa are relentlessly committed to protecting the communities we serve from dangerous drug traffickers and their cohorts,” said Ryan L. Spradlin, special agent in charge of HSI Dallas. “We will continue working with our valued law enforcement partners to bring to justice those involved in the illicit drug trade.”
On September 10, 2020 a Customs and Border Protection Officer x-rayed a FedEx package coming from Mexico and noticed some anomalies. A K-9 unit proceeded to discover that the package contained 1.84 kilos of heroin and was in route to an address in Northern Oklahoma. Officers discovered that the package was intended for Shane Wright and that Wright was known to local law enforcement as a narcotics courier. Prior to the delivery arriving at Wright’s residence, law enforcement replaced the 1.84 kilos with 100 grams of heroin as a represented delivery sample. On September 15, 2020 an officer from the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs posed as a FedEx delivery driver and knocked on Wright’s door to have him sign for the package. Once the parcel was received by Wright, law enforcement conducted a search warrant and found $6,975 cash in a lock box, more heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, unknown white pills, and a digital scale at the residence.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel-lyn A. McCormick is prosecuting the case.
Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that three Sri Lankan citizens have been charged with terrorism offenses, including conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (ISIS). The men were part of a group of ISIS supporters which called itself “ISIS in Sri Lanka.” That group is responsible for the 2019 Easter attacks in the South Asian nation of Sri Lanka, which killed 268 people, including five U.S. citizens, and injured over 500 others, according to a federal criminal complaint unsealed today.
The complaint outlines the defendants’ roles in the conspiracy and the events that led to near-simultaneous suicide bombings in the Sri Lankan cities of Colombo, Negombo and Batticaloa on April 21, 2019. One of the U.S. citizens killed was a Department of Commerce employee who had traveled to Sri Lanka on official business.
Two days after the attacks, ISIS claimed credit for the terrorist acts, attributing the murders to “Islamic State fighters.” In late April 2019, the then-leader of ISIS praised the attackers for what he called a retaliation against “the West” for defeating ISIS the prior month in Baghuz, Syria.
“ISIS’s Easter attacks in Sri Lanka killed 268 people, including five Americans, many while they worshiped,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “Today, we charge these defendants with bearing their share of the responsibility for these deaths. According to these charges, the defendants were committed supporters of ISIS, recruited others to ISIS’s violent cause, purchased materials for and made IEDs, helped to prepare and trained others who participated in the attacks, and murdered in the name of this deadly foreign terrorist organization. They are in custody in Sri Lanka. We fully support the Sri Lankan investigation and prosecution of these terrorists and will continue to work with the authorities there to pursue our shared goal of holding these defendants accountable for their crimes. At the same time, these charges reflect that the U.S. justice system remains a powerful tool to bring to bear against those who harm our citizens abroad. We will continue to pursue justice for the victims of these heinous attacks and for all American victims of terrorism.”
“This case clearly demonstrates that the United States will take decisive action to ensure terrorists face justice when they target Americans anywhere in the world,” said Nick Hanna, the U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California. “The United States remains confident in the Sri Lankan authorities’ ability to bring the perpetrators to justice – and this complaint makes clear that we stand ready with these charges in the event the defendants attempt to evade justice.”
“The domestic charges announced today for an attack on foreign soil represent the FBI’s commitment to deliver justice to traveling American victims and to protect U.S. interests here and abroad,” said Kristi K. Johnson, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “For decades, and particularly since 9/11, the FBI has deployed agents to various parts of the world to establish an investigative foothold and to liaison with local counterparts with a shared goal of combating terror globally. Our enduring hope is that criminal prosecution – whether domestic or foreign – will bring some peace to the hundreds of victims killed or injured in Sri Lanka as a result of this horrific attack.”
The criminal case filed on Dec. 11, 2020, in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles is the result of a nearly two-year investigation by the FBI, which assisted Sri Lankan authorities in the wake of the suicide bombings that targeted Christian churches and luxury hotels frequented by Westerners. The defendants named in the complaint, along with other suspects linked to the attacks, currently are detained in Sri Lanka, where a criminal investigation is ongoing.
According to the complaint, the three charged defendants and others involved in the conspiracy – including eight terrorists who died in the suicide bombings – conspired to provide, provided, and attempted to provide material support, including services and personnel, to ISIS through various actions, including: (1) creating, maintaining, and serving as members of a group of ISIS supporters in Sri Lanka devoted to ISIS, its ideology, and to planning and encouraging violent attacks to advance ISIS’s goals; (2) obtaining explosive materials and IED components; (3) manufacturing and testing IEDs, including the types of IEDs ultimately used in the attack; (4) recruiting other ISIS in Sri Lanka members; (5) using ISIS-created training materials to instruct and train the attackers and their co-conspirators in the use of firearms and explosives; (6) procuring safe houses for the group to prepare for attacks in the name of ISIS, including the Easter Attacks, while avoiding law enforcement detection; (7) following ISIS directives to use specific end-to-end encrypted messaging applications to conceal the criminal conspiracy; (8) murdering two Sri Lankan police offers to obtain the officers’ firearms; and (9) shooting a suspected police informant.
The three defendants named in the criminal complaint, all of whom pledged allegiance to ISIS, are:
- Mohamed Naufar, the “second emir” for the group of ISIS supporters that called itself “ISIS in Sri Lanka,” who allegedly led the group’s propaganda efforts, recruited others to join ISIS, and led a series of multi-day military-type trainings;
- Mohamed Anwar Mohamed Riskan, who allegedly helped manufacture the IEDs used in the Easter Attacks; and
- Ahamed Milhan Hayathu Moahmed, who allegedly executed a police officer in order to obtain the officer’s firearm, shot a suspected informant, and scouted a location for a separate terrorist attack.
All three defendants are charged with conspiring to provide, providing, and attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. Additionally, Naufar and Milhan are charged with aiding and abetting the receipt of military-type training from ISIS.
The FBI-led Joint Terrorism Task Force in Los Angeles, including personnel assigned responsibilities for extraterritorial matters, is leading the investigation. This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Annamartine Salick, George E. Pence IV and Christine M. Ro of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section, and Trial Attorney Alicia Cook of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance.
Three Foreign Nationals Charged in Federal Court in Los Angeles with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – The Justice Department announced today that three Sri Lankan citizens have been charged with terrorism offenses, including conspiring to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (ISIS). The men were part of a group of ISIS supporters that called itself “ISIS in Sri Lanka” and allegedly was responsible for the 2019 Easter attacks in the South Asian nation of Sri Lanka, which killed 268 people, including five U.S. citizens, and injured over 500 others, according to a federal criminal complaint unsealed today.
The complaint outlines the defendants’ roles in the conspiracy and the events that led to near-simultaneous suicide bombings in the Sri Lankan cities of Colombo, Negombo and Batticaloa on April 21, 2019. One of the U.S. citizens killed was a Department of Commerce employee who had traveled to Sri Lanka on official business.
Two days after the attacks, ISIS claimed credit for the terrorist acts, attributing the murders to “Islamic State fighters.” In late April 2019, the then-leader of ISIS praised the attackers for what he called a retaliation against “the West” for defeating ISIS the prior month in Baghuz, Syria.
“This case clearly demonstrates that the United States will take decisive action to ensure terrorists face justice when they target Americans anywhere in the world,” said United States Attorney Nick Hanna. “The United States remains confident in the Sri Lankan authorities’ ability to bring the perpetrators to justice – and this complaint makes clear that we stand ready with these charges in the event the defendants attempt to evade justice.”
“ISIS’s Easter attacks in Sri Lanka killed 268 people, including five Americans, many while they worshiped,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “Today, we charge these defendants with bearing their share of the responsibility for these deaths. According to these charges, the defendants were committed supporters of ISIS, recruited others to ISIS’s violent cause, purchased materials for and made IEDs, helped to prepare and trained others who participated in the attacks, and murdered in the name of this deadly foreign terrorist organization. They are in custody in Sri Lanka. We fully support the Sri Lankan investigation and prosecution of these terrorists and will continue to work with the authorities there to pursue our shared goal of holding these defendants accountable for their crimes. At the same time, these charges reflect that the U.S. justice system remains a powerful tool to bring to bear against those who harm our citizens abroad. We will continue to pursue justice for the victims of these heinous attacks and for all American victims of terrorism.”
The criminal case filed on December 11 in United States District Court in Los Angeles is the result of a nearly two-year investigation by the FBI, which assisted Sri Lankan authorities in the wake of the suicide bombings that targeted Christian churches and luxury hotels frequented by Westerners.
“The domestic charges announced today for an attack on foreign soil represent the FBI’s commitment to deliver justice to traveling American victims and to protect U.S. interests here and abroad,” said Kristi K. Johnson, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “For decades, and particularly since 9/11, the FBI has deployed agents to various parts of the world to establish an investigative foothold and to liaison with local counterparts with a shared goal of combating terror globally. Our enduring hope is that criminal prosecution – whether domestic or foreign – will bring some peace to the hundreds of victims killed or injured in Sri Lanka as a result of this horrific attack.”
The defendants named in the complaint, along with other suspects linked to the attacks, currently are detained in Sri Lanka, where a criminal investigation is ongoing.
According to the complaint, the three charged defendants and others involved in the conspiracy – including eight terrorists who died in the suicide bombings – conspired to provide, provided, and attempted to provide material support, including services and personnel, to ISIS through various actions, including: (1) creating, maintaining, and serving as members of a group of ISIS supporters in Sri Lanka devoted to ISIS, its ideology, and to planning and encouraging violent attacks to advance ISIS’s goals; (2) obtaining explosive materials and IED components; (3) manufacturing and testing IEDs, including the types of IEDs ultimately used in attack; (4) recruiting other ISIS in Sri Lanka members; (5) using ISIS-created training materials to instruct and train the attackers and their co-conspirators in the use of firearms and explosives; (6) procuring safe houses for the group to prepare for attacks in the name of ISIS, including the Easter attacks, while avoiding law enforcement detection; (7) following ISIS directives to use specific end-to-end encrypted messaging applications to conceal the criminal conspiracy; (8) murdering two Sri Lankan police offers to obtain the officers’ firearms; and (9) shooting a suspected police informant.
The three defendants named in the criminal complaint, all of whom pledged allegiance to ISIS, are:
• Mohamed Naufar, the “second emir” for the group of ISIS supporters that called itself “ISIS in Sri Lanka,” who allegedly led the group’s propaganda efforts, recruited others to join ISIS, and led a series of multi-day military-type trainings;
• Mohamed Anwar Mohamed Riskan, who allegedly helped manufacture the IEDs used in the Easter Attacks; and
• Ahamed Milhan Hayathu Moahmed, who allegedly executed a police officer in order to obtain the officer’s firearm, shot a suspected informant, and scouted a location for a separate terrorist attack.
All three defendants are charged with conspiring to provide, providing, and attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. Additionally, Naufar and Milhan are charged with aiding and abetting the receipt of military-type training from ISIS.
The FBI-led Joint Terrorism Task Force in Los Angeles, including personnel assigned responsibilities for extraterritorial matters, is leading the investigation.
This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Annamartine Salick, George E. Pence IV and Christine M. Ro of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section, and Trial Attorney Alicia Cook of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department provided valuable assistance.
Thirteen Charged in Federal Court Following Riot at the United States CapitolRead the Press Release
Thirteen individuals have been charged so far in federal court in the District of Columbia related to crimes committed at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C, on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021. In addition to those who have been charged, additional complaints have been submitted and investigations are ongoing.
“The lawless destruction of the U.S. Capitol building was an attack against one of our Nation’s greatest institutions,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Sherwin. “My Office, along with our law enforcement partners at all levels, have been expeditiously working and leveraging every resource to identify, arrest, and begin prosecuting these individuals who took part in the brazen criminal acts at the U.S. Capitol. We are resolute in our commitment to holding accountable anyone responsible for these disgraceful criminal acts, and to anyone who might be considering engaging in or inciting violence in the coming weeks – know this: you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“ATF is committed to the rule of law and the protection of all citizens’ Constitutional rights,” said Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Deputy Director Regina Lombardo. “We continue to support our law enforcement partners to ensure those who violated the law during the events at the Capitol this week are brought to justice. ATF has dedicated all appropriate resources to complete these investigations as soon as possible.”
“Today’s charges are just the beginning of the FBI’s ongoing efforts to hold those responsible for the criminal acts of violence and destruction that unfolded during the U.S. Capitol building breach on January 6th,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “To be clear, what took place that day was not First Amendment-protected activity, but rather an affront on our democracy. The FBI, along with our local, state and federal partners, is committed to ensuring that justice is served. We will continue to aggressively investigate each and every individual who chose to ignore the law and instead incite violence, destroy property, and injure others."
“Deputy U.S. Marshals responded to support U.S. Capitol Police after the incursion into the Capitol building. Our deputies helped to clear the building and escorted members of Congress back to the main chamber for official business,” said U.S. Marshals Service Director Donald Washington. “US Marshals will now bring to bear our fugitive investigations expertise to ensure that individuals charged in federal warrants are brought to face justice. Respect for the rule of law is a foundational principle for our democracy and the freedoms that it provides. Unlawful acts will not go unpunished.”
“The events that happened at and around the United States Capitol were unconscionable, and those responsible will be held accountable for their attempts to thwart Democracy,” said Metropolitan Police Department Chief of Police Robert J. Contee III. “While these charges represent a positive step, there is still work to be done. Our collective intentions are to work diligently to identify all of the persons responsible for the insurrection at our U.S. Capitol.”
Thirteen individuals have been charged with federal crimes. The defendants and charges are outlined below:
- Cleveland Meredith was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with making interstate threats to Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
- Richard Barnett, of Arkansas, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful entry; violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and theft of public money, property, or records. Barnett allegedly entered a restricted are of the Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.
- Lonnie Coffman, of Alabama, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with possession of an unregistered firearm (destructive device) and carrying a pistol without a license. It is alleged that Coffman’s vehicle contained 11 explosive devices known as Molotov cocktails and firearms. It is further alleged he was in possession of two firearms. Coffman was arrested and is currently being held. His detention hearing is scheduled for Jan. 12, 2021.
- Mark Leffingwell, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; assault on a federal law enforcement officer; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds. Leffingwell allegedly entered the Senate side of the Capitol and when stopped by law enforcement, struck an officer in the helmet and chest. Leffingwell is currently being held and has a detention hearing in district court today.
- Christopher Alberts, of Maryland, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with carrying or having readily accessible, on the grounds of the United States Capitol Building, a firearm and ammunition. Specifically a Taurus G2C, 9mm handgun and 9mm caliber ammunition. The defendant appeared in district court and was released. He has a preliminary hearing scheduled for Jan. 28, 2021.
- Joshua Pruitt, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority. The defendant appeared in district court and was released. He has a preliminary hearing scheduled for Jan. 28, 2021.
- Matthew Council, of Florida, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds. Council allegedly unlawfully entered the Capitol building, and when stopped by law enforcement, he pushed the officer.
- Cindy Fitchett, of Virginia, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
- Michael Curzio, of Florida, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
- Douglas Sweet, of Florida, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
- Bradley Ruskelas, of Illinois, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
- Terry Brown, of Pennsylvania, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
- Thomas Gallagher was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
In addition, approximately 40 individuals have been arrested and charged in Superior Court with offenses including, but not limited to, unlawful entry, curfew violations, and firearms-related crimes.
The cases are being prosecuted by the U.S Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and are being investigated jointly by the FBI; U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; United States Marshals Service; U.S. Capitol Police Department; and the Metropolitan Police Department.
The ATF and FBI continue to urge the public to report suspected use of explosive devices, or violent, destructive acts associated with the recent unrest. Anyone with information can call 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477), email [email protected] or submit information anonymously via ReportIt.com.
The FBI is looking for individuals who may have incited or promoted violence of any kind. Anyone with digital material or tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or submit images or videos at fbi.gov/USCapitol.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
# #
Thirteen Charged in Federal Court Following Riot at the United States CapitolRead the Press Release
Thirteen individuals have been charged so far in federal court in the District of Columbia related to crimes committed at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C, on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021. In addition to those who have been charged, additional complaints have been submitted and investigations are ongoing.
“The lawless destruction of the U.S. Capitol building was an attack against one of our Nation’s greatest institutions,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Sherwin. “My Office, along with our law enforcement partners at all levels, have been expeditiously working and leveraging every resource to identify, arrest, and begin prosecuting these individuals who took part in the brazen criminal acts at the U.S. Capitol. We are resolute in our commitment to holding accountable anyone responsible for these disgraceful criminal acts, and to anyone who might be considering engaging in or inciting violence in the coming weeks – know this: you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“ATF is committed to the rule of law and the protection of all citizens’ Constitutional rights,” said Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Deputy Director Regina Lombardo. “We continue to support our law enforcement partners to ensure those who violated the law during the events at the Capitol this week are brought to justice. ATF has dedicated all appropriate resources to complete these investigations as soon as possible.”
“Today’s charges are just the beginning of the FBI’s ongoing efforts to hold those responsible for the criminal acts of violence and destruction that unfolded during the U.S. Capitol building breach on January 6th,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “To be clear, what took place that day was not First Amendment-protected activity, but rather an affront on our democracy. The FBI, along with our local, state and federal partners, is committed to ensuring that justice is served. We will continue to aggressively investigate each and every individual who chose to ignore the law and instead incite violence, destroy property, and injure others."
“Deputy U.S. Marshals responded to support U.S. Capitol Police after the incursion into the Capitol building. Our deputies helped to clear the building and escorted members of Congress back to the main chamber for official business,” said U.S. Marshals Service Director Donald Washington. “US Marshals will now bring to bear our fugitive investigations expertise to ensure that individuals charged in federal warrants are brought to face justice. Respect for the rule of law is a foundational principle for our democracy and the freedoms that it provides. Unlawful acts will not go unpunished.”
“The events that happened at and around the United States Capitol were unconscionable, and those responsible will be held accountable for their attempts to thwart Democracy,” said Metropolitan Police Department Chief of Police Robert J. Contee III. “While these charges represent a positive step, there is still work to be done. Our collective intentions are to work diligently to identify all of the persons responsible for the insurrection at our U.S. Capitol.”
Thirteen individuals have been charged with federal crimes. The defendants and charges are outlined below:
- Cleveland Meredith was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with making interstate threats to Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
- Richard Barnett, of Arkansas, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful entry; violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and theft of public money, property, or records. Barnett allegedly entered a restricted area of the Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.
- Lonnie Coffman, of Alabama, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with possession of an unregistered firearm (destructive device) and carrying a pistol without a license. It is alleged that Coffman’s vehicle contained 11 explosive devices known as Molotov cocktails and firearms. It is further alleged he was in possession of two firearms. Coffman was arrested and is currently being held. His detention hearing is scheduled for Jan. 12, 2021.
- Mark Leffingwell, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; assault on a federal law enforcement officer; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds. Leffingwell allegedly entered the Senate side of the Capitol and when stopped by law enforcement, struck an officer in the helmet and chest. Leffingwell is currently being held and has a detention hearing in district court today.
- Christopher Alberts, of Maryland, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with carrying or having readily accessible, on the grounds of the United States Capitol Building, a firearm and ammunition. Specifically a Taurus G2C, 9mm handgun and 9mm caliber ammunition. The defendant appeared in district court and was released. He has a preliminary hearing scheduled for Jan. 28, 2021.
- Joshua Pruitt, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority. The defendant appeared in district court and was released. He has a preliminary hearing scheduled for Jan. 28, 2021.
- Matthew Council, of Florida, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds. Council allegedly unlawfully entered the Capitol building, and when stopped by law enforcement, he pushed the officer.
- Cindy Fitchett, of Virginia, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
- Michael Curzio, of Florida, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
- Douglas Sweet, of Florida, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
- Bradley Ruskelas, of Illinois, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
- Terry Brown, of Pennsylvania, was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
- Thomas Gallagher was charged on Jan. 7, 2021, with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; or knowingly, with intent to impede government business or official functions, engaging in disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
In addition, approximately 40 individuals have been arrested and charged in Superior Court with offenses including, but not limited to, unlawful entry, curfew violations, and firearms-related crimes.
The cases are being prosecuted by the U.S Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and are being investigated jointly by the FBI; U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; United States Marshals Service; U.S. Capitol Police Department; and the Metropolitan Police Department.
The ATF and FBI continue to urge the public to report suspected use of explosive devices, or violent, destructive acts associated with the recent unrest. Anyone with information can call 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477), email [email protected] or submit information anonymously via ReportIt.com.
The FBI is looking for individuals who may have incited or promoted violence of any kind. Anyone with digital material or tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or submit images or videos at fbi.gov/USCapitol.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Sutton Man Indicted on Child Pornography Possession ChargeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Sutton man was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury in connection with possession of child pornography.
Oliver Smith, 45, a citizen of Sweden and the United States, was indicted on one count of possession of child pornography. Smith was previously arrested on Nov. 24, 2020 and charged by criminal complaint.
According to the charging documents, on Nov. 15, 2020, after receiving investigative information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and Swedish law enforcement authorities, agents executed a search warrant at Smith’s Sutton residence and seized several devices. A preliminary forensic review of devices seized revealed images and videos of child pornography. During an interview with federal agents, Smith admitted that he had downloaded child pornography upon his return to the U.S. from Sweden.
Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274.
The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the United States Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Acting Assistant Attorney General David P. Burns of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; William S. Walker, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; and Sutton Police Chief Dennis J. Towle made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Noto of Lelling’s Worcester Branch Office and Jessica Urban of the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section are prosecuting the case.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Statement of United States Attorney Lawrence KeefeRead the Press Release
“The criminal acts of domestic terrorism at our nation’s Capitol yesterday shock the sensibilities of all law-abiding, patriotic Americans, regardless of their political leanings. Our Capitol is a historic symbol of the republic and the seat of a lawmaking body that is the envy of the world. The attack on our Capitol is an assault on America's democracy and an insult to all Americans. It cannot and will not be tolerated. As United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, our office will do everything within our authority to identify and prosecute any individuals from this district who violated federal law and travelled to Washington to participate in this dangerous lawlessness. These individuals are neither patriots nor protesters; they are shameless criminals, and must be treated as such. As surely as history, in the future, will punish those who engaged in such anarchy and criminal behavior, our nation will use all appropriate tools of law enforcement and justice to seek their prosecution and punishment now."
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Press Release - Statement of U.S. Attorney Lawrence KeefeStatement of South Florida U.S. Attorney Concerning Attack on Nation’s Capitol BuildingRead the Press Release
Miami, Fl. – Southern District of Florida U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan issued the following statement:
“I condemn Wednesday’s violence at our Nation’s Capitol Building as an intolerable attack on our democracy. My office stands with the Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners as this tragedy is investigated and the offenders are prosecuted. Those responsible for these criminal acts, including any South Florida resident who is found to have participated in the violent attack, will be held accountable.”
Statement of Acting Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen on the Death of U.S. Capitol Police Officer Brian D. SicknickRead the Press Release
Acting Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen issued the following statement:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and fellow officers of U.S. Capitol Police Officer Brian D. Sicknick, who succumbed last night to the injuries he suffered defending the U.S. Capitol, against the violent mob who stormed it on January 6th. The FBI and Metropolitan Police Department will jointly investigate the case and the Department of Justice will spare no resources in investigating and holding accountable those responsible.”
Statement from outgoing U.S. Attorney Justin HerdmanRead the Press Release
My last day as United States Attorney coincides with a huge weekend for Ohio football. Once again, the Browns and Buckeyes will be going into matchups with heavily-favored opponents, at seemingly impossible odds to succeed. Once more, it feels like Ohio against the world. When I started this job in 2017, that feeling extended to the broader community, beyond sports, in our great state. Chinese fentanyl, brought to our doorsteps by Mexican cartels and peddled on our streets by gun-toting violent gangs, was killing thousands of Ohioans every year. Heartless healthcare professionals, who had abandoned their oaths for profit, were driving addiction and flooding our neighborhoods with prescription painkillers. Eastern European cybercriminals preyed on our senior citizens. Corrupt public officials traded votes for cash and, yes, carrot cake. White supremacists threatened our communities of faith and sought to incite a race war through their criminal actions. Terrorists plotted mass-casualty attacks. And sex traffickers moved human beings like cattle from abuser to abuser. But we have fought back. We have locked up drug dealers, taken guns off the street, broken up cybercrime rings, and put away terrorists. The bad guys are on the run and we will pursue them to the ends of the Earth.
Take heart Ohio. We may feel that the world is against us, but we’ve beat long odds before. When America needed to put a man on the moon, they called for an Ohioan. When any NBA team needs to win a championship, they call for an Ohioan. When a football team has needed to win a game, time and again throughout history, they have called on Ohioans. And when our communities need someone to slug it out with the bad guys, they will always be able to call upon the great Ohioans who make up the ranks of our law enforcement agencies.
This may be my last day as U.S. Attorney, but the men and women of this office are always on your side, Ohio.
Go Browns. Go Buckeyes.
Statement by U.S. Attorney Trent Shores in Response to Media Inquiries About the Investigation and Prosecution of Violence at the U.S. CapitolRead the Press Release
“The violence committed this week at our Nation’s Capitol Building and surrounding areas was illegal and an affront to an American institution of democracy and rule of law.
At this time, the Department of Justice and FBI are requesting the public’s assistance to identify individuals who may have taken part in violent or destructive acts on the U.S. Capitol. If, after investigation, the FBI finds substantial and credible evidence that individuals from the Northern District of Oklahoma planned to commit violent acts against the Capitol and travelled to Washington, DC, with the intent to carry out those acts, or committed unlawful acts of violence, the U.S. Attorney’s Office stands ready to bring charges against those individuals, or to assist the District of Columbia U.S. Attorney’s Office in prosecuting acts over which it has primary jurisdiction. If any Oklahoman has information to help identify individuals participating in rioting or violence in or around the U.S. Capitol Building, the FBI urges you to submit information, photos, or videos that could be relevant to tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI. Because the FBI’s investigation into these attacks is ongoing, we cannot comment further. I want to be clear that any criminal investigation will pertain to suspected or alleged criminal conduct. It was not a crime for Oklahomans to travel to Washington, DC, to participate in constitutionally protected activities, such as peaceable assembly or a political rally.”
The direct FBI link to provide information about events that occurred at the U.S. Capitol is: https://tips.fbi.gov/digitalmedia/aad18481a3e8f02
Statement by U.S. Attorney Gregg N. Sofer on Law Enforcement Appreciation DayRead the Press Release
Saturday is Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, and it could not come at a more critical time. Despite a difficult 2020, law enforcement is still out there, protecting you, your property and your loved ones from those who would take all that you have. But with the current climate, we may soon have fewer and less qualified officers, less protection, and more crime. Indeed, this downward spiral has already begun. The ranks of law enforcement have experienced record levels of retirements, lower levels of recruitment, and we have seen increasing crime rates in cities throughout the country.
Over the past 29 years, I have worked with hundreds of federal, state and local law enforcement officers – public servants who choose to go to work intent on making a positive difference in our communities. They see the worst of humanity but willingly and purposefully step into the line of fire to help the vulnerable among us.
Law enforcement officers demonstrate real acts of heroism. They save lives, prevent injury, confront violence, and help those who cannot help themselves. Helping is what motivates them. They do their dangerous jobs with little external reward, often with little gratitude and with little understanding by the public of the challenges they face.
Imagine the federal agents who must mine through a seemingly never-ending stream of vile child pornography, desperately trying to rescue child victims, haunted by barbaric images of innocent children being abused. Or consider the local police officer who realizes a family’s financial hardship and pays out of pocket to stock their pantry with food. Know that border patrol agents dive into muddy waters to rescue drowning children and that local police officers routinely sit on sidewalks and talk people through mental health episodes while securing them needed services.
Our law enforcement professionals are burdened with the weight of the human struggle, and they respond. With compassion. With kindness. With concern so much of the time. And often unnoticed or unseen – that’s the way they prefer it.
The risks to these professionals are incredible. Each day they leave their homes uncertain if they will return; if they will be spit upon, cursed, or assaulted; if they will be forced to make a split second decision that could injure or take a life; if they will lose their life; if their spouse will be widowed or child will lose a parent. When we see them in uniform, it’s easy to forget that they are human beings just like us; that they, too, have parents, spouses, children, and people they love; that they worry about paying their bills or making it to their child’s ballgame. They do a job most of us are unwilling and incapable of doing. They run towards gunfire and expose themselves to COVID and other contagious diseases. They tolerate unjustified vilification, work with deficient resources, endure constant criticism, and largely accept relatively low wages all the while handling the very worst our society has to offer – all so that we don’t have to. In the current environment, one must wonder why anyone would do this job.
I realize that people make bad decisions every day, that corruption creeps into every profession and into the highest echelons of authority. Law enforcement is not immune. Indeed, I have prosecuted police officers during my career for abusing their positions and committing crimes. We expect our law enforcement officials to be held to the highest standard. But the overwhelming majority of our law enforcement professionals do their jobs exceedingly well and with motives society should emulate. Tarnishing the reputations of thousands who wear the badge is, like stereotyping of any kind, innately wrong and exceedingly dangerous.
This weekend, when you see an officer, detective, deputy, sheriff or special agent, take a moment to step into their shoes, to listen to their stories, to understand the person. Thank them for their service to our community. After all, you need them, and they need your understanding.
Statement Regarding the Storming of the Capitol and Questions About Venue for ProsecutionRead the Press Release
This statement is issued in response to inquiries received over the last two days from the press and the public regarding the violence in Washington D.C. and whether our office will investigate and prosecute perpetrators.
The storming of the Capitol was a reprehensible act that marked a dark, tragic, and appalling moment in the history of the country. It placed many in great danger and we grieve for those who suffered. We mourn the indelible wound to the psyche of the nation. We denounce the violence in the strongest terms.
Peaceful protest and freedom of assembly are vital American rights and traditions that we should all support and defend no matter the viewpoint espoused. But when peaceful protest devolves into violence, the conduct should be roundly condemned and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Some in Vermont have asked where potential prosecutions should occur. The Constitution provides that a criminal defendant has a right to a trial in a venue where the crime occurred.
The fact that a person resides in a particular state does not, in itself, mean that the state’s state or federal courts are proper venues for the prosecution of that individual. Instead, generally speaking, to have venue in a jurisdiction, there must be sufficient evidence that some part of the criminal offense occurred in that jurisdiction. Thus, speaking hypothetically, if a citizen of Vermont traveled to Washington D.C. for the sole purpose of participating in a peaceful protest (legal conduct), but during that protest spontaneously decided to commit a crime against the United States, or other unlawful acts, that crime would be prosecutable in courts in the District of Columbia, not in Vermont. But in a situation where a part of the illegal activity occurred in Vermont or otherwise had a connection to Vermont – such as an individual conspiring in Vermont to commit a federal crime in Washington D.C. (for example, destruction of federal property, arson, or assault on a federal officer) and then traveling to D.C. and committing that crime – then there would be venue in federal court in Vermont, assuming we had all the necessary evidence to charge. (Importantly, this is not the only fact pattern under which we would have venue in Vermont, merely one illustrative example.)
As always, our office would need to carefully consider any evidence assembled by law enforcement before initiating a prosecution. Finally, in providing this explanation, our office is not suggesting that we have any actual, current information about crimes prosecutable in Vermont. We do not confirm or deny the existence of investigations.
We hope for, and support, the prosecution of those who committed violence and desecration against our American government buildings, institutions, proceedings, and people. We must all do our part to defend the rule of law. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Vermont remains committed as ever to prioritizing prosecution of violent crime and pursuing cases of national import where we have venue and proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
Somersworth Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography CrimesRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Joseph Gaudreau, 25, of Somersworth, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday to possessing and distributing child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 26, 2017, the New Hampshire State Police (“NHSP”) received three tips previously submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by the online communications application Skype. The tips reported that on three separate occasions on March 21, 2017, the same user account uploaded files to Skype that were identified as child sexual abuse images. NHSP investigators later determined that the Skype account was associated with Gaudreau.
NHSP investigators spoke with Gaudreau at his residence in Somersworth on August 30, 2017. In a voluntary interview, Gaudreau admitted to possessing child pornography and sharing it with others on the internet using multiple applications, including Skype. He told law enforcement that he generally stored images in his Dropbox account, which he could access from any internet-capable device.
Law enforcement officers next obtained a search warrant for the contents of any Dropbox account associated with the username or e-mail that Gaudreau voluntarily provided them during the interview. The materials received from Dropbox included numerous video files and still images of child pornography.
Gaudreau is scheduled to be sentenced on April 20, 2021.
“Those who possess and distribute child pornography are exploiting vulnerable and innocent children,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “In order to protect children from harm, we will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute the perpetrators of child pornography crimes.”
“Today’s conviction is one more step in the critical, ongoing fight against the illicit distribution of child exploitation images being shared online.” said William S. Walker, acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “Without the close coordination and tireless efforts of our partners in the New Hampshire State Police, the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire, this individual would not have been brought to justice and the children depicted would have been continually re-victimized each and every time these horrific images were shared.”
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police, NH Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Somersworth Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Dronzek.
In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Richmond Man Pleads Guilty to Attack on U.S. Postal WorkerRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man pleaded guilty today to assaulting a longtime United States Postal Service city carrier who was delivering mail in the Gilpin Court neighborhood.
According to court documents, video surveillance captured Erriette Williams, 45, approach USPS city carrier J.B., grab a parcel key from him, and, after daring J.B. to pick up the parcel key, punch him in the face. The city carrier sustained lacerations to his face and later received medical attention.
Williams is scheduled to be sentenced on May 7, 2021. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. 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.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Peter R. Rendina, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson accepted the plea.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Simon, Jr. is 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. 3:20-cr-79.
Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A registered sex offender arrested while sitting in a restaurant parking lot accessing the business’ Wi-Fi feed in order to view child pornography was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison for possessing child pornography.
Vincent J. Siravo, 41, of Westerly, convicted in Rhode Island state court in 2008 for possessing child pornography, was arrested on October 16, 2019, by members of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, who had developed information that on multiple occasions a device was connecting to an IP address assigned to the South Kingstown restaurant that was accessing a file sharing network and possessed files of child pornography.
A State Police Detective discovered Siravo sitting in his car with a laptop computer on his lap. Siravo, who was uncooperative and provided a false name to law enforcement, was identified through his vehicle registration and determined to be a Level 1 sex offender. A court-authorized forensic review of Siravo’s computer revealed approximately 2,200 video files and approximately 1,600 images depicting child pornography. Among the child pornography files identified were files downloaded by someone using the restaurant IP address on March 21 and March 22, 2017.
At sentencing today, U.S. District Court Judge Mary S. McElroy sentenced Siravo to 120 months in federal prison to be followed by a term of 15 years supervised release. Siravo was ordered to pay a mandatory assessment of $5,000 as provided for in the Justice for Victims Trafficking Act.
Siravo’s sentence is announced by United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police Colonel James M. Manni, and Homeland Security Investigations Acting Special Agent in Charge William S. Walker.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee. H. Vilker.
The Rhode Island ICAC Task Force is comprised of members of the Rhode Island State Police Computer Crimes Unit along with detectives from the Warwick Police Department, Cranston Police Department, Newport Police Department, East Providence Police Department, Pawtucket Police Department, Bristol Police Department, North Kingstown Police Department, Portsmouth Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations.
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Regional Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 30 YearsRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that in Federal Court, United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan has sentenced Sandro Cuevas, Jr., 25, from Selma, North Carolina, to 360 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and evidence presented to the court, Sandro Cuevas, Jr. was named in a five-count Indictment filed on May 9, 2019. On January 14, 2020, the defendant pled guilty to Conspiring with others to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, and to various counts of Distribution of Methamphetamine.
The investigation revealed Cuevas ran a large-scale drug trafficking organization for multiple years. Cuevas began selling marijuana and cocaine nearly a decade ago and progressed in earnest to larger quantities and additional types of drugs. As Cuevas progressed, he developed multiple contacts from Mexico to Atlanta, GA who supplied his organization cocaine and methamphetamine. As a primary means of transportation, Cuevas paid couriers up to $1,000.00 per trip to travel and retrieve kilogram quantities of the various drugs. Once the drugs arrived in North Carolina, Cuevas utilized a network of stash houses and individuals to sell the drugs into various communities. At the investigation’s conclusion, the organization led by Cuevas was known to distribute drugs in multiple North Carolina counties, South Carolina, and as far South as Atlanta, Georgia. Cuevas, and those with whom he worked, were known to sell the drugs quickly in an effort to reduce full criminal exposure that accompanies being caught with large quantities of drugs. This organization carried and used multiple firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking activities.
Leading to the arrest of Cuevas, a reliable informant provided law enforcement with corroborated information about the drug organization. With this, multiple controlled purchases for large quantities of methamphetamine were achieved. These controlled purchases led to a search warrant that resulted in the seizure of extensive drug ledgers, multiple arrests (including that of Sandro Cuevas, Jr.), the recovery of large quantities of methamphetamine, distribution materials, and an assault rifle.
The case is a federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) criminal matter. In support of OCDETF, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina has implemented the Take Back North Carolina Initiative. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
The case was investigated by the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, the Duplin County Sherriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Brad Knott prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:19-cr-00194-FL-1.
Onondaga County Postal Carrier Charged with Obstructing the MailRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Priscilla Czyz, age 37, of Cato, New York, has been charged with obstructing the mail, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon Special Agent in Charge Matthew Modafferi, United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG), Northeast Area Field Office.
Czyz was arraigned today in federal court in Syracuse by videoconference before United States Magistrate Judge Andrew T. Baxter. The charge against Czyz alleges that she obstructed the mail while working as a postal carrier by willfully failing to deliver mail entrusted to the United States Postal Service for delivery in Onondaga County, New York between September 24, 2020, and October 7, 2020. Czyz was released pending further proceedings.
The charge filed against Czyz carries a maximum sentence of 6 months in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The charge filed against Czyz is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by USPS-OIG, and it is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael F. Perry.
Oak Creek Man Sentenced to More Than A Year in Prison for Stealing User Fees from Recreational AreasRead the Press Release
DENVER – United States Attorney Jason Dunn announced that Jayce Peterson, 36, of Oak Creek, Colorado, was sentenced to more than a year (15 months) in prison for theft and depredation of government property. Peterson’s prison sentence will be followed by two concurrent two-year terms of supervised release.
According to the plea agreement, between July and October 2018, Peterson used an oxy-acetylene torch to cut locks off of metal fee tubes used at recreation areas throughout Northwestern Colorado. He then stole money that others had deposited to pay for camping or for day use. Damaged fee tubes were on land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the United States Forest Service (USFS), and the Colorado Department of Parks and Wildlife (CPW). Peterson admitted that he typically approached a fee tube during the night. He often used a tarp to conceal his actions and the bright light coming from the torch he was using. Peterson also stole surveillance cameras installed by law enforcement agencies to monitor fee tube locations during the investigation. Through coordination between the BLM, USFS, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and other state and local agencies, Peterson was identified and arrested. He caused more than $39,000 in damage.
“Stealing user fees and damaging government property in recreation areas hurts everyone who enjoys our wild areas,” said United States Attorney Jason Dunn. “Coloradans can be confident that this office, together with our law enforcement partners, will protect our public lands to make sure they are kept pristine and beautiful for generations to come.”
“Theft and intentionally damaging government property are serious offenses, and I applaud our partners in following through with this case,” said BLM Colorado Special-Agent-In-Charge Gary Mannino. “The stolen fees are meant to stay in the local area for both maintaining and improving recreation sites to enhance recreation experiences for all visitors.”
“Fee tube theft and the resulting damage to government property significantly impacts limited agency resources and ultimately negatively affects the users of our magnificent public lands,” said United States Forest Service Special Agent-In-Charge Kenneth Pearson. “This is a great example of local, state, and federal law enforcement partners working together for the common good.”
United States District Court Judge Christine M. Arguello sentenced Peterson on January 7, 2021.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Bureau of Land Management, the United States Forest Service, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy Chaffin.
CASE NUMBER: 19-cr-00331-CMA-GPG
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North Carolina Nail Salon Owner Convicted of Forced LaborRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that after a five-day trial, a federal jury in Charlotte, North Carolina, found Thuy Tien Luong, 37, of Charlotte, North Carolina, guilty of forced labor after finding that Luong compelled the labor of one of her nail technicians at a nail salon she owned and operated in Davidson, North Carolina.
“More than 150 years after the United States ratified the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution and abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, human trafficking remains a problem in our cities, our towns, and our communities,” said Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division Eric Dreiband. “Like slave masters of old, human traffickers are adept at targeting the most vulnerable members of our society and using coercive and violent tactics to intimidate and compel their services. We must and will confront and defeat this vile conduct, like this defendant’s, and the Department of Justice will continue its vigorous and systematic efforts to hold human traffickers accountable, bring justice to their victims, and prevent them from harming others.”
“Through the infliction of mental and physical abuse, Luong despicably preyed upon the victim’s hardships and personal vulnerabilities for her own selfish financial gains,” said U.S. Attorney R. Andrew Murray for the Western District of North Carolina. “Forced labor schemes are an assault on human dignity and have no place in modern society. My office remains committed to combating all forms of human trafficking and prosecuting perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Traffickers treat human beings as commodities, and this case is no exception. They use force, fraud or coercion to prey on people’s vulnerabilities,” said U.S. Department of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Charlotte Special Agent in Charge Ronnie Martinez. “HSI special agents will continue to focus their efforts on eradicating this heinous crime; no one should be subject to human trafficking.”
Evidence presented at trial established that Luong compelled the victim’s labor from October 2016 to June 2018 through a variety of coercive means. Luong physically assaulted the victim on several occasions, including pulling her hair out, stabbing her with nail salon tools, and pouring acetone on her head. Luong also threatened to ruin the victim’s reputation with her family by threatening to tell them information about the victim which would negatively impact the victim’s relationship with her family. Luong falsely claimed that the victim owed her a debt of $180,000, and falsely alleged that the victim’s poor work performance caused Luong to lose this amount of money. Luong even executed a debt contract with the victim in the amount of $180,000, and threatened to send the victim to jail if she did not repay all of it. In reality, the victim was a good employee. Luong often treated the victim in a humiliating and demeaning fashion, all while having her work 10 hours a day for 6 to 7 days a week. The totality of Luong’s coercive scheme caused the victim to fear Luong and forced her to continue working for Luong until a particularly violent assault led to the victim reporting Luong to the Davidson Police Department and to Luong’s subsequent arrest in June 2018.
A sentencing date has not been scheduled at this time, but it will occur before District Court Judge Kenneth D. Bell. The defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment and must pay mandatory restitution to the victim as well.
The case is being investigated by HSI with assistance from the Davidson Police Department and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimlani M. Ford of the Western District of North Carolina and Trial Attorney Maryam Zhuravitsky of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit.
Nicholas R. Ochs Arrested for Unlawful Entry into the United States Capitol BuildingRead the Press Release
HONOLULU, Hawaii – A criminal complaint was unsealed today in federal court in the District of Columbia charging Nicholas R. Ochs with Unlawful Entry into Restricted Buildings or Grounds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1752(a). The defendant was arrested last evening in Honolulu, Hawaii, at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. His initial appearance will be in federal court in Honolulu.
According to court filings, the charge stems from Ochs’s unlawful entry into the United States Capitol building on January 6, 2021. The government will seek his removal to the District of Columbia to face this charge.
The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
The charge in the complaint is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Please direct all press inquiries to Shelia Miller at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia at (202) 252-6933, [email protected].
New York Man Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Supervisory Role in Large-Scale Wire Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Bronx, New York man was sentenced today to 72 months in prison for supervising a large-scale wire fraud conspiracy that exposed victims to more than $2 million in losses, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced.
Joshua Suarez, 34, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Kevin McNulty to one count of engaging in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Judge McNulty imposed the sentence today by video teleconference.
According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court:
The conspirators used multiple techniques to fraudulently convince banks and other corporate entities to send or release funds to them, including withdrawing funds by falsely claiming to be financial account holders and negotiating bogus checks. Suarez recruited and directed individuals to open bank accounts in order to launder the funds. Once the fraudulently obtained funds were deposited into the bank accounts, Suarez oversaw the withdraw and transfer of funds from those accounts. The conspiracy exposed victims to losses of more than $2,000,000.
Nine people have been charged, eight have pleaded guilty, and six have been sentenced in this case. The charges and allegations against the remaining defendant are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
In addition to the prison term, Judge McNulty sentenced Suarez to three years of supervised release and ordered him to pay $504,164 in restitution.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the FBI’s Newark Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr., and the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael C. Mikulka in New York, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Kogan of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Cybercrime Unit in Newark.
NDTX Round-Up: January 1 - 7Read the Press Release
SENTENCING – MARIO MAKIYA SANDIFER a.k.a. “Danero the Goat”
On January 6, Mario Makiya Sandifer, 25, was sentenced to 3 years in federal prison for tampering with a witness or victim. In June 2019, law enforcement arrested Catrell Tywarren Johnson for sex trafficking. Sandifer intentionally contacted the trafficking victim via social media to prevent her testimony against Johnson. In one such attempt, Sandifer created a music video which he posted to YouTube and sent to the victim the link. In the video, Sandifer made threatening remarks and gestures in reference to the victim. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Dana prosecuted this case.
SENTENCING – ROGELIO ALVARADO
On January 7, Rogelio Alvardo, 35, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. Alvarado admits that he distributed cocaine to customers in exchange to U.S. currency. He also admits that he used a cellular phone to discuss, negotiate, and facilitate drug transactions with a co-conspirator. This case was investigated by the FBI and the Dallas Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Phelesa Guy prosecuted this case.
GUILTY PLEA – ROBERT BURNEY CAPPS
On January 7, Robert Capps, 71, plead guilty to transporting and shipping child pornography. In September 2019, HSI received a cyber tip that reported that an image of child pornography had been uploaded to the Kik messaging application. Agents executed a search warrant at an address in Dallas where Capps lived. A forensic review of Capps cellular device revealed 508 imaged of child pornography. These images included sadistic images as well as images of infants and toddlers. Capps faces up to 20 years in federal prison for his crimes. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (Child Exploitation Group – Dallas). Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Beran is prosecuting this case.
SENTENCING – BO JACK KELLEY
On January 7, Bo Jack Kelley, 27, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for production of child pornography. Kelley, a resident of Cullman, Alabama met a 14-year-old minor, located in Texas, on social media. Kelley coerced the minor to produce and send him sexually explicit videos. Kelly threatened that if the minor did not continue to send him pornographic videos, he would send the videos she already sent him to members of her family. Eventually, Kelley sent four sexually explicit videos of the minor’s mother’s social media account. This case was investigated by the FBI, Texas DPS, Texas Rangers, Shallowater Police Department, and Cullman Police Department.
Muskogee County Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Robbery in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jobe Anthony Terronez, age 19, of Muskogee County, Oklahoma entered a guilty plea to Attempted Robbery In Indian Country, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2111, 1151, 1153, and 2, punishable by up to 15 years’ imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about July 30, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Indian Country, the defendant, an Indian, by force and violence and by intimidation, did attempt to take items of value from the person and presence of D.L.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Haskell Police Department, the Muskogee Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable John F. Heil, III, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Conway represented the United States.
Montrose Resident Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Federal Prison for Role in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Jason Dunn announced that Naomi Vaughn, 36, of Montrose, Colorado, was sentenced to more than seven years (87 months) in federal prison for her role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Vaughn’s prison sentence will be followed by a five-year term of supervised release.
According to court documents, as well as facts presented at sentencing, Vaughn and her husband/co-defendant Joseph Davis were mid-level dealers of methamphetamine in Montrose, Colorado. They received and distributed multiple pounds of methamphetamine for profit. Vaughn began this criminal activity shortly after her husband was released on parole in 2019, after he served a portion of a ten-year state prison sentence for previous drug distribution. After Davis was released on parole, the couple distributed methamphetamine from their Montrose residence.
“Montrose is an important community on the western slope,” said U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn. “Drug rings operating in small communities can have a devasting impact on the quality of life. I commend our federal and local law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly with our prosecutors to make a real difference for everyone who lives in Montrose and the surrounding area.”
“This sentencing sends a clear message that those who seek to sell this poison in our community will be caught and dealt with severely,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Deanne Reuter. “The DEA and our law enforcement partners across the state are committed to eradicating the illegal sale and distribution of methamphetamine and other hard drugs plaguing our communities.”
United States District Court Judge Christine M. Arguello sentenced Vaughn on January 7, 2021. Davis was previously sentenced to more than 12 years (151 months) for his involvement in the drug conspiracy.
The investigation in this matter was conducted by the DEA, the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office, the Montrose County Police Department, and the Seventh Judicial District Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Phillips is leading the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: 19-cr-00535-CMA-GPG
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Miami Nurse Charged with Defrauding Covid-19 Relief ProgramsRead the Press Release
Miami, Fl. – Federal prosecutors have charged a Miami nurse with fraud and other crimes in a criminal complaint that accuses him of lying on coronavirus relief loan applications and fraudulently obtaining close to half a million dollars in relief money intended to help small businesses survive disasters like the current pandemic.
The complaint affidavit alleges that Giraldo Caraballo, 55, falsely applied for and received approximately $420,000 in a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan from a bank on behalf of Professional Skills Inc., a company that he controlled. According to the affidavit, Caraballo falsely claimed on the PPP loan application that the company had 28 employees and an average monthly payroll of $168,000. The affidavit also alleges that Caraballo applied for and received approximately $55,000 in Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) relief. In his EIDL application, Caraballo falsely claimed that his company had four employees and a 12-month gross revenue of $180,000. In fact, Caraballo’s company had zero employees and no payroll expenses. Caraballo spent the relief money on personal expenses and transferred $239,000 into a personal bank account, says the affidavit.
Caraballo made his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jacqueline Becerra. His arraignment is scheduled for January 29, 2020, in federal magistrate court in Miami.
U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan of the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge George L. Piro of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement.
FBI investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eli S. Rubin is prosecuting it. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Grosnoff is handling asset forfeiture.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a federal law enacted March 29, 2020. It is designed to provide emergency financial assistance to millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act is the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the PPP. Since its enactment, Congress has authorized hundreds of billions of additional PPP funding.
The PPP allows qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive loans with a maturity of two years and an interest rate of one percent. Businesses must use PPP loan proceeds for payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities. The PPP allows the interest and principal to be forgiven if businesses spend the proceeds on these expenses within a set time period and use at least a certain percentage of the loan towards payroll expenses.
Another source of relief is funding for the EIDL program, which is administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The EIDL program provides low-interest financing to small businesses, renter, and homeowners in regions affected by declared disasters. The EIDL Advance is issued to affected employers based on the number of employees the applicant certifies having.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find related court documents and information on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 21-mj-02014.
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Mescalero man pleads guilty to voluntary manslaughter in Indian countryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Mundo Charles Barela, 19, of Mescalero, New Mexico, pleaded guilty on Jan. 6 in federal court to voluntary manslaughter in Indian country.
In the plea agreement, Barela admitted to stabbing a man on the evening of July 20, 2020, during a quarrel and “in the heat of passion.” Barela stabbed the victim several times in the victim’s throat, chest and abdomen. The victim was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. The attack took place on the Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation and the victim was an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe.
Barela will remain in custody pending sentencing. He faces up to 15 years in prison.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs and the FBI investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Maryland Man Sentenced to Prison for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Deallto McQuil Key Davis, 25, of Maryland, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to 27 months of imprisonment for conspiring to defraud a bank out of hundreds of thousands of dollars, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael R. Sherwin and James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office. In 2015, Davis was sentenced to six months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for conspiracy to commit money laundering.
From January 2018 through April 2018, while he was on supervised release for the federal money laundering offense, Davis conspired with others to defraud Wells Fargo Bank. The conspiracy involved Davis traveling to Wells Fargo ATMs in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, depositing worthless checks into accounts belonging to other account holders, and causing the ATMs to malfunction. The checks Davis deposited were ultimately dishonored by the issuing banks, but in some cases, any hold that Wells Fargo placed on the deposited checks expired before Wells Fargo discovered the fraud. In total, Davis used Wells Fargo ATMs to conduct 24 fraudulent check deposits totaling approximately $390,000 into various accounts. Participants in the conspiracy accessed approximately $144,000 from the accounts before the bank discovered the fraud.
Davis was charged via criminal complaint with bank fraud in January 2019. He was initially held without bond, but then released on certain conditions, which included not committing any additional crimes. In October 2019, a grand jury charged him with nine counts of bank fraud and nine counts of aggravated identity theft related to the bank fraud scheme. In January 2020, a grand jury returned a separate indictment charging him with seven counts of contempt, alleging that he committed additional fraudulent conduct while he was on pretrial release. As part of the plea agreement, the government agreed to dismiss all of the pending charges against Davis at his sentencing hearing.
In addition to sentencing Davis to 27 months in prison, the Honorable Trevor N. McFadden ordered that Davis serve three years of supervised release and pay restitution and a forfeiture money judgment.
In announcing the plea, Acting U.S. Attorney Sherwin and Special Agent in Charge Dawson commended the work of those from the FBI’s Washington Field Office who investigated the case. They also expressed appreciation to Paralegal Specialists Mariela Andrade and Amanda Rohde. Finally, they commended the work of former Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Saler, who investigated both cases, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kondi Kleinman and David Kent.
Marietta doctor sentenced to 8 years in prison for illegally distributing opioid pain meds, health care fraudRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Southeast Ohio doctor was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 96 months in prison for illegally prescribing controlled substances and defrauding health care programs.
A federal jury convicted Roger D. Anderson, 66, of Marietta, in March 2020.
Specifically, Anderson was convicted of one count of conspiring to distribute controlled substances, eight counts of illegal dispensing of controlled substances and one count of committing health care fraud.
Anderson owned and operated Marietta Medical, which was located on Putnam Street in Marietta.
According to court documents and trial testimony, between January 2012 and March 2016, Anderson conspired with others to distribute opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone outside the scope of medical practice and without a legitimate medical purpose.
Anderson pre-signed prescriptions for staff to complete and distribute to patients in his absence. Prescriptions were given to patients on days that Anderson did not examine them and by staff who were not legally qualified to give prescriptions. Further, the drugs would be distributed at a kiosk after hours inside the office complex Putnam Commons.
Anderson prescribed dangerous combinations of controlled substances, including those known as “Holy Trinity” (an opioid, a benzodiazepine and a muscle relaxant) and “Speedballs” (a stimulant and an opioid).
One patient received four prescriptions issued in the same day for 10 Fentanyl patches, 120 Xanax pills, 180 Oxycodone pills and 180 pills of the acetaminophen-hydrocodone mix Norco. On that same date, the patient already had two other overlapping prescriptions for Fentanyl issued by Anderson.
Additionally, Anderson conspired to and committed health care fraud, defrauding the Ohio Medicaid and Medicare programs. Anderson caused the submission of claims for controlled substance that were prescribed in violation of Federal law.
“Anderson ignored blatant red flags that his patients were abusing and diverting the opioids he prescribed,” U.S. Attorney David M. DeVillers said. “He prescribed opioids and benzodiazepines to a pregnant patient and was banned by pharmacies. Today’s sentence is another reminder that if you act like a drug dealer, we will prosecute you like one.”
“Instead of helping and healing, this doctor fueled drug addictions,” Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said. “It’s appalling and I am thankful for the state and federal partnership that worked to stop this activity.”
David M. DeVillers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Lamont Pugh III, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; Keith Martin, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost; Anthony Groeber, Executive Director, State Medical Board of Ohio; Steven Schierholt, Executive Director, State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy; John Logue, Interim Administrator/CEO, Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation; and Washington County Sheriff Larry Mincks announced the sentence imposed today by Chief U.S. District Judge Algenon L. Marbley.
Assistant United States Attorney Kenneth F. Affeldt and Senior Litigation Counsel Douglas W. Squires represented the United States in this case.
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Man Who Solicited “Nudes” of Children Online Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who possessed photographs and at least six videos containing child pornography, and who communicated with others online in an attempt to obtain additional nude photographs of children, was sentenced today to more than 15 years in federal prison.
Dustin Herhold, age 27, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 6, 2020 guilty plea to the attempted sexual exploitation of a child.
In a plea agreement, Herhold admitted that between September 20, 2019, and October 1, 2019, he used a chat application to request nude photos of a twelve-year old child. He also admitted to possessing nude photographs of children on a tablet.
Herhold was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Herhold was sentenced to 188 months’ imprisonment and fined $100. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term and register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Herhold is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Liz Dupuich and investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-2016-CJW.
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Man Sentenced for Illegally Straw Purchasing 17 FirearmsRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Woodbridge man was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison for conspiring to illegally straw purchase 17 firearms.
According to court documents, Corey Randolph Harris, Jr., 27, conspired with an unnamed co-conspirator to knowingly make false statements with respect to the purchase of firearms. Between April 2019 and July 2019, Harris straw purchased 17 firearms in eight separate transactions, all from federal firearms licensees in the Eastern District of Virginia. In each transaction, Harris represented himself as the true buyer of the firearms when, in fact, he was purchasing them on behalf of the unnamed co-conspirator and selling them to the unnamed co-conspirator for a profit. The Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C. recovered two of the firearms from individuals other than Harris and the unnamed co-conspirator.
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 ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha Smalky is 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. 1:20-cr-212.
Man Sentenced for Financial Institution and Identity FraudRead the Press Release
A man has been sentenced today in federal court for fraudulently using another individual’s identity to purchase an RV in the Northern District of Oklahoma, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores.
Ryan Andy Cuevas, 32, of Moreno Valley, California, has been sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge John E. Dowdell to 21 months in federal prison and 3 years supervised release.
“Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States. The ramifications for victims can be devastating, personally and financially,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “Identity thieves like Ryan Cuevas will be prosecuted vigorously in this district. I applaud the efforts of the Social Security Administration’s Inspector General and Bartlesville Police Department for their great investigative work on this case.”
In his plea agreement, Cuevas admitted that on November 30, 2019, having traveled to Oklahoma from California, he went to Bob Hurley RV in Tulsa to purchase a recreational vehicle fraudulently. He used the identity of a man in California, without his permission, while duping the dealership into a vehicle sale. Cuevas used the man’s name and social security number to apply for credit financing, knowing the dealership would submit the loan application papers to Tinker Federal Credit Union for the purpose of obtaining the funds to purchase the RV. He secured $38,000 to purchase the vehicle. Bob Hurley was able to recover the RV once Cuevas’ fraud was discovered.
The Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General and the Bartlesville Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin C. Leitch prosecuted the case.
Man Arrested for Illegally Entering Office of Speaker of the HouseRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Richard Barnett, 60, of Gravette, Arkansas was arrested today in Bentonville, Arkansas on multiple criminal charges related to his alleged unlawful activities earlier this week at the U.S. Capitol Building where he was photographed with his feet up on a desk in the Speaker of the House of Representatives’ office.
Barnett is in custody is expected to make his initial appearance Tuesday at 3pm (via zoom) in federal court in Fayetteville. He will ultimately be extradited to Washington, D.C.
“The shocking images of Mr. Barnett with his boots up on a desk in the Speaker of the House’s office on Wednesday was repulsive,” said Jeffrey A. Rosen, Acting Attorney General of the United States. “Those who are proven to have committed criminal acts during the storming of the Capitol will face justice.”
According to court documents, U.S. Capitol Police learned that an individual had entered the restricted office area of the Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and was photographed with his feet propped up on furniture. Those photos were circulated on numerous news media platforms which identified the individual as Barnett. A search of law enforcement databases confirmed that the individual in the news photographs did in fact appear to be Barnett.
“This case is just one in a number that demonstrate the brazen acts that were committed at the Capitol on Wednesday,” said Michael Sherwin, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. “My Office is committed to prosecuting all individuals who participated in these abhorrent acts to the fullest extent of the law.”
“The U.S. Capitol is one of the most iconic buildings in our country and a symbol of the Constitution and people we have sworn to protect, and its destruction will not be tolerated,” said Steven M. D’Antuono, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. “This arrest demonstrates to all individuals involved in January 6 incursion into the U.S. Capitol that the FBI will find you and hold you accountable for your crimes, no matter your location. We thank the FBI Little Rock Field Office for their quick assistance in bringing this perpetrator to justice.”
Barnett is charged with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and theft of public money, property, or records. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison. 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.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police and the FBI’s Washington Field Office, with the assistance of the Justice Department’s National Security Division and the FBI’s Little Rock Field Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole McClain of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Man Arrested for Illegally Entering Office of Speaker of the HouseRead the Press Release
Richard Barnett, 60, of Gravette, Arkansas was arrested today in Bentonville, Arkansas on multiple criminal charges related to his alleged unlawful activities earlier this week at the U.S. Capitol Building where he was photographed with his feet up on a desk in the Speaker of the House of Representatives’ office.
Barnett is scheduled to make his initial appearance in federal court on Tuesday. He will ultimately be extradited to Washington, D.C.
“The shocking images of Mr. Barnett with his boots up on a desk in the Speaker of the House’s office on Wednesday was repulsive,” said Jeffrey A. Rosen, Acting Attorney General of the United States. “Those who are proven to have committed criminal acts during the storming of the Capitol will face justice.”
According to court documents, U.S. Capitol Police learned that an individual had entered the restricted office area of the Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and was photographed with his feet propped up on furniture. Those photos were circulated on numerous news media platforms which identified the individual as Barnett. A search of law enforcement databases confirmed that the individual in the news photographs did in fact appear to be Barnett.
“This case is just one in a number that demonstrate the brazen acts that were committed at the Capitol on Wednesday,” said Michael Sherwin, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. “My Office is committed to prosecuting all individuals who participated in these abhorrent acts to the fullest extent of the law.”
“The U.S. Capitol is one of the most iconic buildings in our country and a symbol of the Constitution and people we have sworn to protect, and its destruction will not be tolerated,” said Steven M. D’Antuono, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. “This arrest demonstrates to all individuals involved in January 6 incursion into the U.S. Capitol that the FBI will find you and hold you accountable for your crimes, no matter your location. We thank the FBI Little Rock Field Office for their quick assistance in bringing this perpetrator to justice.”
Barnett is charged with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and theft of public money, property, or records. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison. 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.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police and the FBI’s Washington Field Office, with the assistance of the Justice Department’s National Security Division and the FBI’s Little Rock Field Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole McClain of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Lafourche Parish Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KENDALL MATHEWS, a/k/a “DOT,” age 37, a resident of Thibodaux, Louisiana, pled guilty on January 7, 2021 before U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to thirteen counts of a fourteen-count indictment charging him with several narcotics offenses, including conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fifty kilograms or more of methamphetamine, five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride, use of a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking crime, and distribution of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.
According to court documents, beginning in January 2018, Special Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration made two controlled purchases of more than 50 grams of methamphetamine each from MATHEWS. After making the controlled purchases, agents obtained court ordered wiretaps of MATHEWS and his co-conspirators’ telephones and intercepted numerous calls between MATHEWS his co-conspirators, and customers in which they discussed the sales of methamphetamine, cocaine hydrochloride, and heroin. Through their continued monitoring of telephone calls, agents were able to identify and seize two kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride. Also, agents and officers obtained search warrants for co-conspirators’ residences and seized approximately 148 grams of heroin and 1300 grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine.
MATHEWS faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a $100.00 special assessment fee per count.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Office of Homeland Security Investigations, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
Jackson Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Pornography ConvictionRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY – Patrick George Jackson, 60, of North Salt Lake, Utah, will serve 10 years in federal prison followed by 84 months of supervised release after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography in federal court. In the plea agreement, Jackson admitted that in May of 2019, he possessed over 600 images of child pornography on his electronic devices. Jackson also admitted that he had been previously convicted twice of sexual offenses Utah, including a 1990 conviction for Sexual Abuse of a Child, and a 2002 conviction for Attempted Forcible Sexual Abuse. After his release from federal prison, Jackson will be required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the Utah U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. Special Agents of the FBI conducted the investigation.
Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing in Missoula before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto and pleading not guilty on Jan. 4 was:
Taylor Ray Bogard, 21, of Missoula, on charges of prohibited person in possession of firearms and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Bogard faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,00 fine and three years of supervised release. Bogard was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Missoula Police Department investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-49.
Grady Harold Sullivan, Jr., 44, of Eureka, on charges of prohibited person in possession of firearms and ammunition. If convicted of the most serious crime, Sullivan faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Sullivan was released pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Montana’s Probation and Parole Division and Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-55.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on Jan. 5 was:
Jose Eduardo Garcia, 29, hometown unknown, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. If convicted of the most serious crime, Garcia faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Garcia was detained pending further proceedings. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-134.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on Jan. 5 was:
Eduardo Luis Diaz, 26, of Chicago, IL, on charges of aggravated sexual abuse and sexual abuse. If convicted of the most serious crime, Diaz faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. Diaz was released pending further proceedings. The National Park Service investigated the case. PACER case reference. 20-56.
The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Independence Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Firearm Following Police Chase in Stolen TruckRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Missouri, man pleaded guilty in federal court today to illegally possessing a firearm following a police chase in a stolen pickup truck.
John D. Seger, 28, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
By pleading guilty today, Seger admitted that he was in possession of a Phoenix handgun while driving a stolen pickup truck on Jan. 18, 2017. Independence police officers saw Seger run a red light. Officers attempted a traffic stop, but Seger fled from police and stopped only after the vehicle wrecked and became inoperable. Seger fled on foot before being apprehended by police. Officers then found the handgun inside the pickup truck.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Seger has a prior felony conviction for voluntary manslaughter, two prior felony convictions for burglary, two prior convictions for tampering with a motor vehicle, and a prior felony conviction for resisting arrest.
Under federal statutes, Seger is subject to a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Kate Butterfield. It was investigated by the Independence, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with federal, state, and local law enforcement to specifically identify criminals responsible for significant violent crime in the Western District of Missouri. A centerpiece of this effort is Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program that brings together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Safe Neighborhoods is an evidence-based program that identifies the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develops comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, Project Safe Neighborhoods focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.