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25 February 2021
11 Members and Associates of the “Bully Gang” Charged with Racketeering OffensesRead the Press Release
A third superseding indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn charging 11 members and associates of the violent New York City-based street gang known as the “Bully Gang” with racketeering for their role in multiple crimes, including attempted murder, armed robbery, narcotics trafficking, bribery, extortion and money laundering. Charges against multiple co-conspirators were also unsealed, including a New York City Department of Correction (DOC) officer and a former DOC officer who are charged with participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy led by the founder and leader of the Bully Gang which trafficked drugs into DOC facilities. Six defendants were arrested in the New York area today and will be arraigned via videoconference this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Vera M. Scanlon. The remaining defendants will be arraigned at a later date.
Seth D. DuCharme, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, John B. DeVito, Special Agent-in-Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New York Field Division (ATF), Dermot F. Shea, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), and Margaret Garnett, Commissioner, New York City Department of Investigation (DOI), announced the arrests and charges.
“For years, members and associates of the Bully Gang have committed brutal and wanton acts of violence while spreading the poison of dangerous and illicit drugs throughout communities and even correctional institutions,” stated Acting United States Attorney DuCharme. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of our law enforcement partners, today’s charges mark significant progress towards permanently neutralizing the Bully Gang and dismantling its destructive drug-trafficking network.”
“Today, a sophisticated criminal network, committing acts of violence, trafficking in firearms, and distributing dangerous narcotics across the east coast has been dismantled. Thanks to the unwavering efforts of the ATF/NYPD Joint Firearms Task Force, these Bully Gang members and their associates are off the streets and facing lengthy prison sentences, where they will no longer be a threat to public safety,” stated ATF Special Agent-in- Charge DeVito.
“This investigation deals a substantial blow to gang violence on our City streets and demonstrates the critical need to uphold integrity as a City employee and in all City operations. As charged, these current and former City Correction officers used the access and influence of their position to traffic dangerous drugs from the Bully Gang to inmates on Rikers Island in exchange for bribes, undermining the safety of the City's jails and that of their fellow officers. DOI is proud to partner with the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, the ATF, and the NYPD on this important investigation and we will continue to work together to protect our City jails from contraband smuggling,” stated DOI Commissioner Garnett.
As set forth in the indictment and other court filings, the defendants used force and violence to promote their power, terrorize surrounding communities and enrich themselves and their members. For example, in June 2018, Moeleek Harrell, the founder and leader of the Bully Gang, conspired with Derrick Ayers, another member, to murder a perceived “rival” of the gang, whom Harrell later shot at multiple times on a street in Brooklyn. Harrell’s leadership of the gang continued even after his incarceration at Rikers Island, where he led a drug trafficking, bribery and money laundering scheme responsible for smuggling drugs into the jail through the use of conspirators and the payment of bribes to correctional officers.
As alleged, the defendants also operated a years-long, sophisticated drug trafficking network responsible for trafficking large quantities of dangerous drugs like cocaine base (“crack”), heroin and fentanyl through New York to Maine, and elsewhere. As alleged, the gang’s leaders sent Brooklyn-based drug dealers, including Bully Gang members and associates, from New York to Maine to operate “trap” houses where narcotics were stored and sold. The organization’s drug proceeds were collected on a regular basis and laundered through financial transactions and the purchase of high-value assets, including jewelry and cars. During the investigation, law enforcement seized more than $380,000 in cash, more than 15 firearms, six kilograms of cocaine, 600 grams of fentanyl, multiple luxury watches and four vehicles with concealed “trap” compartments installed.
In the summer of 2020, Bully Gang members Franklin Gillespie and Latrell Johnson committed a spree of gunpoint robberies, displaying firearms to victims on the street in lower Manhattan to overpower them. In 2020 and 2021, Johnson also extorted a local business in Brooklyn, brandishing a firearm as part of the extortion scheme.
Between June 2019 and June 2020, Johnny Chiles, currently employed by DOC as an officer, and then-DOC officer Darius Murphy accepted payments from gang associates in exchange for delivering papers soaked in synthetic cannabinoids to inmates at Rikers Island.
The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section and Public Integrity Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Drew G. Rolle, Nicholas J. Moscow and Lindsey R. Oken and Special Assistant United States Attorney Virginia T. Nguyen, are in charge of the prosecution.
New Defendants:
KASSIN APPLING (also known as “Killa” and “Kassim”)
Age: 34
Brooklyn, New YorkJOHNNY CHILES
Age: 36
Brooklyn, New YorkRONALD DAVIS (also known as “Ronno”)
Age: 29
Brooklyn, New YorkBRITTANY DUNCAN
Age: 26
Bayonne, New JerseyNEHEMIE ERIL (also known as “Poca”)
Age: 24
Orange, New JerseyLARON ESTRADA (also known as “Yetta”)
Age: 27
Brooklyn, New YorkROBERT HOLT (also known as “Ricky” and “Ghost”)
Age: 33
Brooklyn, New YorkDARIUS MURPHY
Age: 24
Brooklyn, New YorkTERRELL RATLIFF (also known as “Rello”)
Age: 29
Brooklyn, New YorkJAMEL SMITH
Age: 23
Bronx, New YorkDefendants Previously Indicted:
JESSICA ALMEIDA
Age: 33
Detroit, MaineDERRICK AYERS (also known as “Dee” and “Mel”)
Age: 34
Rahway, New JerseyTYRONE BANKS (also known as “Ty Hitta”)
Age: 23
Brooklyn, New YorkJANET BLOOD
Age: 47
Troy, MaineDAYVON BOSTICK-SAMUELS (also known as “Daytoe”)
Age: 22
Brooklyn, New YorkBERMON CLARKE (also known as “G” and “Blue”)
Age: 28
Rahway, New JerseyMIKE GUSTAVO CONNOR (also known as “Gus”)
Age: 21
Brooklyn, New YorkRASHAAD CRAIG (also known as “Skeeno”)
Age: 25
Brooklyn, New YorkQUINTEN DELVALLE (also known as “Q”)
Age: 24
Brooklyn, New YorkELIZABETH DUECASTER
Age: 35
Searsport, MaineCHRISTINA ESTEVEZ
Age: 31
Queens, New YorkERICA FAGGIOLE
Age: 44
MaineANTONIO FULTON (also known as “Tone”)
Age: 23
Brooklyn, New YorkFRANKLIN GILLESPIE (also known as “Spazz” and “Frankie Gino”)
Age: 30
Newark, New JerseyROMEO GONZALES
Age: 22
Brooklyn, New YorkNIA GOVAN (also known as “Cam” and “V”)
Age: 29
Boston, MassachusettsKEON GRANT (also known as “Keys”)
Age: 34
Brooklyn, New YorkMOELEEK HARRELL (also known as “Moe Money”)
Age: 31
Brooklyn, New YorkPAUL HARRIS (also known as “Baldhead”)
Age: 31
Brooklyn, New YorkNADINE HEATH
Age: 54
Troy, MaineAMANDA HUARD
Age: 38
Raymond, MaineLATRELL JOHNSON (also known as “Barlie Buckz”)
Age: 27
Brooklyn, New YorkANTHONY KENNEDY (also known as “Biggie”)
Age: 34
Queens, New YorkTYQUAWN LANE (also known as “Bicks” and “Tah Tah”)
Age: 27
Brooklyn, New YorkJOANNE LYDEM
Age: 49
Garland, MaineJESSICA PELKEY
Age: 26
Presque Isle, MaineCHRISHAWN PENN (also known as “Prince”)
Age: 26
Brooklyn, New YorkMICHAEL PEREZ (also known as “White Mike”)
Age: 29
Brooklyn, New YorkJOELLE POCHE (also known as “Rico”)
Age: 21
Brooklyn, New YorkMICHAEL REID (also known as “Half”)
Age: 39
Brooklyn, New YorkISAIAH TERRY SANDIFORD
Age: 21
Brooklyn, New YorkCHINASA STRACHAN
Age: 33
Brooklyn, New YorkNICOLETTE TOMPKINS
Age: 22
Westfield, MaineAMANDA WALTON (also known as “A”)
Age: 32
Portland, MaineDANIELLE WHITE
Age: 47
Swanville, MaineE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 20-CR-239 (S-3) (BMC)
24 February 2021
West Virginia hospital to pay more than $300,000 for Medicare fraudRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Bill Powell has announced that Grant Memorial Hospital in Petersburg, West Virginia, has agreed to pay $320,175.71 for false medical claims.
According the settlement, Grant Memorial Hospital filed false claims to Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, VA, and Railroad Retirement Programs from September 2014 to March 2016. The claims were for outpatient and inpatient services and items using the National Provider Identifier number and name of a credentialed physician, when, in fact, the services and items were actually provided by a non-credentialed physician.
“This case was the result of the hospital recognizing the mistake and bringing it to the attention of the federal government. I commend the hospital management for ensuring that this wrong was righted. All medical providers should take note, and when a mistake in billing is made, report the issue immediately,” said Powell.
The hospital disclosed the claims in February 2019, pursuant to the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services self-disclosure protocol.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Prezioso litigated the case on behalf of the government. Agencies involved in the investigation and settlement are the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office, the State of West Virginia Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the West Virginia Bureau for Medical Services, the Defense Health Agency for TRICARE, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Vero Beach Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for More Than $40 Million in FraudRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced David John Ridling (58, Vero Beach) to 15 years in federal prison for devising and executing a fraud scheme that resulted in the loss of more than $40 million. Ridling had pleaded guilty on October 20, 2020.
According to court documents, Ridling is a farmer. Over the course of three years, Ridling attempted to defraud five financial institutions, one financial services provider, and one local Orlando business out of over $50 million. Ridling’s scheme involved the use of false brokerage account statements, fabricated tax returns, and false financial statements to obtain loans and lines of credit.
As part of his scheme, Ridling falsely claimed that three individuals were his account representatives at a financial brokerage company and set up fake email accounts for two of those individuals without their consent or knowledge. Assuming the identities of those two individuals, Ridling sent emails from the fake email accounts in an effort to convince lenders that he had millions of dollars in his two brokerage accounts. In fact, Ridling only had one brokerage account, which never had more than $2,000 in it. During the last year of Ridling’s scheme, he was able to obtain three loans totaling more than $25 million, based in part on his claim that his brokerage accounts had millions of dollars. During that timeframe, Ridling’s brokerage account had less than $2.00.
In total, Ridling was successful in receiving over $40 million in proceeds from his scheme, and he attempted to receive another $15 million from another victim. Ridling used some of the proceeds that he obtained from his victims to pay amounts that he owed to other victims, prolonging his scheme.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg.
United States Attorney’s Office Mourns the Loss of Officer Hugh B. BennettRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY- The United States Attorney’s Office mourns the loss of retired Unified Police Department Officer Hugh B. Bennett, after his courageous battle with Covid-19. Hugh was a loving husband to our United States Attorney’s Office Victim-Witness Coordinator, Candy Bennett, and had a distinguished 26-year career in law enforcement with the Unified Police Department and the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
Upon his retirement from local law enforcement, Hugh became a Federal Court Security Officer, where every member of the United States Attorney’s Office had the privilege of interacting with him on a daily basis.
“Hugh Bennett was a gentleman who had a long and distinguished career in law enforcement,” said United States Attorney John W. Huber. “We extend our deepest sympathies to Candy Bennett, the Unified Police Department, the United States Courthouse and Hugh’s entire family. We will always remember him.”
U.S. District Judge Jason Pulliam Addresses Employees of Eastern District as Part of New EDTX Distinguished Speaker SeriesRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas is pleased to announce a new speaker series and welcomes as its first guest The Honorable Jason K. Pulliam, United States District Judge for the Western District of Texas.
When Judge Pulliam took his oath of office on August 9, 2019, he became the first African American judge appointed to the district court in the Western District of Texas. Judge Pulliam has previously served as Judge Advocate with the United States Marine Corps, a judge in Bexar County, and a Justice on the Texas Fourth Court of Appeals before his federal appointment. He was invited to address the employees of the U.S. Attorney’s Office about his path to judgeship and to share his perspective from the bench.
“The Eastern District of Texas strives to have an outsized, positive impact in our community, and to recognize the contributions of thought leaders across the state,” said Acting United States Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. “We are thrilled that Judge Pulliam could speak with us today, particularly as we honor the contributions of African Americans to our country during this year’s Black History Month.”
The annual celebration of Black History Month was made law in 1986 when Congress passed Public Law 99-244, designating February as National Black History Month. It is commemorated by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, which establishes a national theme for each year. The theme for 2021 is “The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity,” and acknowledges the rich tapestry of the African American family.
Two Women Plead Guilty in Multi-Million Dollar Medicare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two women pleaded guilty today in connection with a multi-million dollar Medicare fraud scheme.
Talia Alexandre, 30, of Palm Springs, Fla., pleaded guilty to one count of receiving kickbacks in connection with a federal health care program. Stefanie Hirsch, 51, of Los Angeles, Calif., pleaded guilty to violating the HIPAA statute. U.S. Senior District Court Judge George A. O’Toole Jr. scheduled the sentencing hearings for June 24, 2021.
According to charging documents, co-conspirator Nathan LaParl and Alexandre sold Medicare patients’ personal and medical data to Juan Camilo Perez Buitrago. Alexandre and LaParl worked with foreign call centers to contact Medicare patients to ask if they were interested in durable medical equipment (DME) such as arm, back, knee and shoulder braces “at little to no cost.” The call centers collected demographic and insurance information from Medicare patients, which Alexandre and LaParl sold to Perez Buitrago. Alexandre received more than $1.4 million from Perez Buitrago for the patient data. Perez Buitrago used that patient data to submit more than $109 million in false and fraudulent claims, submitting claims for DME that was not prescribed, not necessary, and, in many instances, never requested or received.
To perpetuate the scheme, Perez Buitrago and LaParl checked Medicare patients’ insurance eligibility by improperly accessing a patient eligibility tool provided by Hirsch. Hirsch owned EI Medical, Inc., a Medicare-enrolled wheelchair and scooter repair company that qualified for access to a health care clearinghouse that contains Medicare patients’ personal, medical and insurance information. Hirsch improperly gave LaParl and Perez Buitrago access to that clearinghouse and charged them about $0.25 per patient eligibility check. Using Hirsch’s credentials, LaParl accessed the personal and medical data of more than 350,000 patients and Perez Buitrago’s credentials were used for 150,000 patients.
LaParl pleaded guilty in January 2021 and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 20, 2021. In October 2020, Perez Buitrago pleaded guilty to health care fraud and paying kickbacks in connection with a federal health care program and is scheduled to be sentenced on May 5, 2021. Two other defendants, Jessica Jones and Elizabeth Putulin, pleaded guilty in January 2021 and are scheduled to be sentence on May 19, 2021.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Johnnie Sharp Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Birmingham Field Division; Phillip Coyne, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General, Boston Division; and Joseph W. Cronin, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elysa Q. Wan of Lelling’s Health Care Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
Tucson Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Possessing Illegal WeaponsRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, U.S. District Court Judge Jennifer G. Zipps sentenced Raymundo Lopez Casillas, III, 20, of Tucson, to 60 months in prison for unlawful possession of three machineguns, six pipe bombs, and a firearm silencer. Casillas previously pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of unregistered firearms.
On June 7, 2019, Casillas discharged a firearm in his bedroom. The bullet traveled through the wall and struck his 17-year-old nephew in the head, killing him. While investigating this incident, law enforcement searched Casillas’ bedroom and found six pipe bombs, one fully automatic machinegun, two machinegun conversion devices, and a firearm silencer – all of which are unlawful to possess without the proper registration. Although not unlawfully possessed, officers also found thirteen additional firearms, a large amount of ammunition, and high capacity magazines in Casillas’ bedroom.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Angela W. Woolridge handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR19-1893-TUC-JGZ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2021-011_Casillas# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Three Mercer County Men Indicted in Pittsburgh for Violating Federal LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – Three Mercer County men have been charged in separate indictments with violating federal firearms and/or drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The first indictment charges Diquan Crowder, 27, of Farrell, PA, with one count of violating federal firearms laws. According to the indictment, on Nov. 20, 2020, Crowder possessed a Zastava pistol after having been convicted of two drug-trafficking and gun felony crimes.
The second indictment charges Raymond Briskey, 35, of Sharon, PA, with violating federal drug and firearms laws. According to the indictment, on Oct. 21, 2020, Briskey possessed with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, and possessed a firearm after a prior felony conviction and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on that date.
The third indictment, returned on Sept. 22, 2020 and unsealed yesterday, charges Dimetrius Morris, 36, of Farrell, PA, with violating federal drug and gun laws. According to the indictment, on Feb. 20, 2020, Morris possessed with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl and methamphetamine, as well as possessed a firearm after several felony convictions and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on that date.
Dimetrius Morris is a fugitive from justice. Anyone with information concerning his whereabouts should contact the FBI at 412-432-4000.
"Prosecuting drug dealers and those who illegally possess firearms has been a successful strategy for reducing crime in every western Pennsylvania county," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "District Attorney Peter Acker has been a valued partner in these efforts to remove violent offenders from our neighborhoods and make Mercer County a safer place."
"The Mercer County District Attorney’s Office and state and local law enforcement officials are extremely grateful for the assistance of U.S. Attorney Scott Brady and the Department of Justice in adopting these three cases and indicting these three individuals who were deeply involved in drug trafficking and related drug crimes. Raymond Briskey had been a fugitive from justice for over three years after failing to appear for sentencing for his earlier drug
dealing conviction," said Mercer County District Attorney Peter C. Acker. "We work closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI along with our Mercer County Drug Task Force and the PA Attorney General’s Narcotics Agents. That working relationship has been very beneficial to Mercer County and the federal penalties for convictions in these types of cases are far greater than the corresponding state penalties."
For Crowder, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. For Briskey, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $1,500,000. For Morris, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of at least five years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $2,500,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant(s).
Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting these cases on behalf of the United States.
The Mercer County Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the return of the Indictments naming Crowder and Briskey.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Sharon Police Department, the Farrell Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the return of the Indictment naming Morris.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Three Individuals Arrested for Involvement in Darknet Narcotics Trafficking Involving Pills Pressed with FentanylRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Luis Miguel Teixeira-Spencer, 31, Olatunji Dawodu, 36, both of South Florida, were arrested in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, after being indicted on Monday by a federal grand jury in the District of Columbia for illegal sales of opioids on the darknet. The indictment charges the defendants with Conspiracy to Distribute More than 400 Grams of a Mixture and Substance Containing Fentanyl. Additionally, Alex Ogando, 35, of Providence, Rhode Island, was also arrested February 23, 2021 and charged by complaint with Conspiracy to Distribute More than 400 Grams of a Mixture and Substance Containing Fentanyl. All three defendants will have initial appearances before a federal magistrate judge today.
The indictment alleges that, since early 2017, Spencer and Dawodu operated a vendor site that sold pills pressed with fentanyl on numerous darknet markets, including AlphaBay, Dream, Empire, and Wall Street, in exchange for bitcoin. Spencer also used encrypted messaging services to communicate directly with customers and sold pills directly over messaging services. Ogando was in communication with both Spencer and Dawodu as of the online drug trafficking conspiracy. On several occasions, the defendants sold fentanyl pills that they shipped via the U.S. Postal Service to buyers in the District of Columbia.
The FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service executed multiple search warrants yesterday in South Florida and Rhode Island. At the Rhode Island location, agents recovered over $350,000 in cash, approximately 2,000 grams of pills containing fentanyl, and packaging materials. At the South Florida locations, agents recovered more than $12,000 in cash, approximately 1,400 grams of pills containing fentanyl, packaging material, and a firearm.
“The use of sophisticated technology and virtual currency may raise unique challenges to investigating these cases, but this investigation demonstrates that law enforcement can nonetheless root out the sale of dangerous opioids on the darknet,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Sherwin. “We will not let the use of sophisticated cyber technology impair our ability to combat the problem of opioid abuse.”
“The three co-conspirators charged today exploited those suffering through an opioid epidemic to enrich themselves,” said James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office Criminal Division. “This case demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to working with our law enforcement partners around the country to show these criminals and others like them that they can no longer hide behind the dark web to operate their online, illicit marketplaces, because we will infiltrate their networks, shut them down, and bring them to justice, no matter where they are.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to shining a light on those trafficking fentanyl and other illicit drugs on the dark web”, said Inspector in Charge Peter R. Rendina, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Washington Division. “Postal Inspectors, armed with advanced technology, digital forensics and data analytics, continue to work closely with law enforcement partners to thwart those using the U.S. Mail in furtherance of their crimes.”
“As the opioid epidemic continues, IRS-CI will continue to lend our cyber expertise in tracing virtual currency transactions and dissolving the perceived anonymity of the dark web,” said Kelly R. Jackson, IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge. “We look forward to continuing to work with our law enforcement partners to get these dangerous drugs and those who are trafficking them off our streets.”
“The tragedy of the opioid crisis continues to be fueled by those who use every method available, including the Dark Web, to sell their illicit pills to those with substance abuse addictions,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark S. McCormack, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Metro Washington Field Office. “The FDA will continue to work with its law enforcement partners to protect the public health by disrupting and dismantling counterfeit prescription drug manufacturing and distribution.”
The charges in the indictment and complaint are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The charges carry a mandatory 10 years up to life in federal prison.
The FBI’s Hi-Tech Opioid Task Force, IRS-CI Cyber Crimes Unit (Washington, D.C.), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations investigated this case. The Hi-Tech Opioid Task Force is composed of FBI agents and task force partners, including special agents and officers of the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Agency, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and detectives from local assisting police agencies. The task force is charged with identifying and investigating the most egregious Dark Web marketplaces, and the vendors operating on the marketplaces who are engaged in the illegal acquisition and distribution of controlled substances, to include fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other opioids. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura Crane and Rachel Fletcher of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, Paralegal Specialist Katie Thomas, and Legal Assistant Peter Gaboton. Additional assistance has been provided by the United States Attorney’s Offices for the District of Rhode Island and for the Southern District of Florida (Fort Lauderdale and Miami offices) and the FBI’s Miami and Boston Field Offices.
Taney County Couple Indicted for Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Merriam Village, Missouri, couple has been indicted by a federal grand jury for producing child pornography.
Mark John Millman, 36, a citizen of Great Britain and a legal alien resident, and his wife, Tara Sau Millman, 41, were charged in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Mo., on Tuesday, Feb. 23. The indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Mark and Tara Millman on January 29, 2021. The Millmans have been in federal custody since their arrest, and remain detained without bail.
The federal indictment charges the Millmans together in one count of using a minor to produce child pornography and one count of receiving and distributing child pornography.
According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, the investigation began when agents with Homeland Security Investigations in San Diego, California, began investigating users of a cloud storage platform (identified in court documents as “Cloud Platform A”). The cloud platform provides encrypted, cloud-based services that enable private, secure online storage, communication, and collaboration for business and individuals. During the investigation, the agents accessed a weblink to an encrypted chat room with approximately 145 registered users. Files containing child pornography were uploaded/posted by participants in the chat room, the affidavit says, including Mark Millman.
A search warrant was executed at the Millmans’ residence in Taney County, Mo., on January 28, 2021. According to the affidavit, images and videos of child pornography were found on both Mark and Tara Millman’s cell phones. Among those photos, the affidavit says, were images of the Millmans’ sexual abuse of child victims.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force.
Project Safe Childhood
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."Stroud Township Man Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
SCRANTON: The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that James Williams III, also known as “Dilly,” age 40, of Stroud Township, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 23, 2021, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges.
According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, the indictment alleges that on March 29, 2018 and April 18, 2018, Williams distributed and possessed with intent to distribute cocaine within 1,000 feet of Stroudsburg High School, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania. The indictment further charges Williams with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine on May 3, 2018. The indictment also alleges that Williams, a convicted felon, illegally possessed two firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking and one of the firearms was stolen.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Stroud Regional Police Department, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts is prosecuting the case.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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St. Albans Man Sentenced to Prison for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Karzell Rose, 29, of St. Albans, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for distribution of heroin.
“I commend MDENT’s relentless efforts to shut down poison peddlers throughout Kanawha County,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Our communities are safer as a result of their work.”
Rose previously pled guilty and admitted that on January 23, 2020, he sold approximately 3 grams of heroin to a confidential informant at his residence in St. Albans. On January 28, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant at that residence and located an additional amount of heroin, digital scales and two guns. Rose admitted that he intended to distribute the heroin.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Monica Coleman is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00082.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews and USAttyStuart
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Spokane woman admits meth trafficking on Rocky Boy’s Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Spokane, Washington, woman suspected of being a longtime methamphetamine dealer in and around the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation today admitted trafficking charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson said.
Kristina Dawn Russette, 30, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. Russette faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. Chief Judge Morris set sentencing for June 2 and continued Russette’s detention.
According to court documents filed by the government, law enforcement officers in 2019 and 2020 learned from multiple individuals that Russette was supplying methamphetamine from the Spokane area to individuals on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.
The documents allege that in May 2020, Russette was driving a vehicle stopped in Washington for traffic violations. The vehicle was searched pursuant to a tribal search warrant and Russette’s consent and probation conditions. In a purse in the rear seating area were multiple bags containing suspected methamphetamine. A passenger in the vehicle stated that he and Russette had picked up those drugs in Spokane. The DEA determined the drugs from this seizure contained about 746.8 grams, or about 1.6 pounds, of actual methamphetamine.
FBI investigators also obtained information from multiple Facebook accounts in which Russette had used slang or code to communicate about drugs and to arrange for the distribution of drugs.
Additional individuals interviewed by the FBI identified Russette as a longtime supplier of large quantities of meth to persons on and around the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan Plaut is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Chippewa Cree Law Enforcement Services, Tri-Agency Drug Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Kalispel Tribe Public Safety Department in Washington and the Airway Heights Police Department in Washington.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 48% from 2013 to 2019. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.
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Silvis, Illinois Man Sentenced to Prison for Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Tuesday, February 23, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced LaShawn DJames Hensley, age 28, originally of Silvis, Illinois, to 90 months in prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following his prison term, Hensley will serve three years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Hensley began in 2018 when Hensley was driving eastbound on Interstate 74 in Bettendorf approaching the Mississippi River. While crossing the bridge, another vehicle pulled up beside Hensley’s vehicle. While alongside the vehicle, Hensley flashed a black pistol at the occupant of the second vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle slowed down, called 911, and reported what happened. Moline, Illinois police officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle, however Hensley fled at a high rate of speed back toward Bettendorf. Hensley continued to elude Bettendorf and Davenport police officers, as well members of the Iowa State Patrol while driving at high speeds. As the chase ended, Hensley lost control of his vehicle on Welcome Way just south of Kimberly Road in Davenport. Hensley then ran from the officers and threw a loaded Glock 22 .40 caliber pistol onto a commercial rooftop. Upon search of Hensley’s vehicle, officers found three cell phones, sandwich bags, a digital scale, 24 Alprazolam pills, and approximately one ounce of marijuana.
This matter was investigated by the Iowa State Patrol, Bettendorf Police Department, Davenport Police Department, and the Moline Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Scranton Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that David Bomboy, age 61, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 23, 2021, by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to five years’ imprisonment for his role in a Lackawanna County-based methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy.
According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Bomboy previously pled guilty and admitted to participating in a conspiracy to distribute between 350 and 500 grams of methamphetamine in the Scranton area between February and April 2019
The investigation was conducted by the Scranton Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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Pittsburgh Man Sentenced for Role in Distribution of DS44 Gang’s DrugsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -- A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 months and one day of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised released on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl and heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Jonathan Laur, age 37.
According to information presented to the court, Laur was a part of an investigation targeting the Darccide/Smash 44 or DS44 neighborhood gang and its drug trafficking activity, in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, from approximately February of 2019 through June of 2019, the United States received authorization to intercept communications on 9 telephones as part of the investigation.
Intercepted communications revealed that Jonathan Laur was involved in the distribution of heroin and fentanyl, including serving as a runner for co-conspirator Willie Miller.
Assistant United States Attorneys Brendan J. McKenna and Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Pennsylvania man sentenced for role in a drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Albert Lee Brooks, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 33 months of incarceration for his role in a drug trafficking operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Brooks, also known as “B,” pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1000 feet of a Protected Location” in May 2020. Brooks, age 49, admitted to selling “crack” cocaine near Luau Manor in Ohio County in March 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Original indictment press release here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndwv/pr/13-indicted-drug-distribution-operation-ohio-county
Parma Heights man charged with selling fentanyl that led to fatal overdoseRead the Press Release
A Parma Heights man has been charged in federal court for selling fentanyl to a Middleburgh Heights man that resulted in a fatal overdose. Marcus L. Sanders, age 23, of Parma Heights, was charged in a superseding five-count indictment with distribution of fentanyl, with a sentencing enhancement alleging the sale resulted in death; possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; possession with intent to distribute heroin fentanyl, N-butyl Pentylone, and cocaine and two counts of possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
According to the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint, on May 3rd, 2020, Middleburg Heights Police responded to a call for a suspected overdose at a residence. Upon arrival, the male overdose victim was treated with Narcan and transported to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Law enforcement searched the victim’s phone and reviewed a series of text messages between the victim and a reoccurring number, later alleged to be the defendant. After reviewing the messages, law enforcement determined that on May 2nd and May 3rd, the victim and the defendant allegedly arranged a drug transaction for narcotics.
On May 18th, law enforcement investigators sent a message to the defendant from the victim’s phone, arranging for the purported purchase of narcotics. Investigators conducted surveillance of the defendant’s residence and observed as he traveled to the victim’s home to complete the transaction. Upon arrival at the victim’s address, the defendant was arrested and searched. The defendant allegedly had in his possession fentanyl, heroin, N-butyl Pentylone, cocaine and marijuana.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.
In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum, and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Middleburg Heights Police Department and the DEA. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James P. Lewis.
Operation X-Nation: New York Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that Keith Blakely, also known as “Bumpy,” 42, of New York, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute oxycodone, oxymorphone, and hydromorphone. Blakely was charged as a result of a long-term, multi-state investigation known as Operation X-Nation.
“Blakely had oxycodone, oxymorphone, hydromorphone, guns and cash,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “He’s the latest of a number of prescription pill dealers held accountable as a result of Operation X-Nation.”
Blakely admitted that between August 2017 and August 31, 2019, he participated in a drug trafficking organization that was operating in and around Princeton. He admitted that he had telephone conversations intercepted by law enforcement officers. During many of these conversations, he was discussing the distribution of controlled substances with other members of the drug trafficking operation, including the pricing and quantities of substances to be distributed. Blakely also admitted to making several drug distributions to informants that he now knows were cooperating with law enforcement officers. Lastly, he admitted that officers conducted a search on August 30, 2019 of the apartment he was living in near Bluefield. During the search officers found large quantities of oxymorphone, oxycodone, and hydromorphone pills that Blakely intended to distribute, along with three firearms, and approximately $69,962 in cash. As part of his plea agreement, he admitted that the cash was proceeds from his drug trafficking activity and further agreed to forfeit the cash and the firearms to the United States.
Blakely faces up to twenty years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million when he is sentenced on June 1, 2021. After serving a term of imprisonment, Blakely will serve at least three years of supervised release.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, which is composed of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the Princeton Police Department, and the Bluefield Police Department conducted the investigation.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is in charge of the prosecution. The plea hearing was held before Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber.
This case was brought under the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:19-cr-00307.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews and USAttyStuart
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North Versailles Felon, 18, Charged with Illegally Possessing AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA One resident of North Versailles, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Deonte Hollis, 18, as the sole defendant.
According to Indictment, on or about February 6, 2021, Deonte Hollis, a convicted felon, possessed rounds of 9mm Luger ammunition. Federal law prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
At each count, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Barbara K. Doolittle is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive and the Duquesne Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Nicholasville Compounding Pharmacy and Its Owner Sentenced for Unlawful Distribution of Prescription Drugs Unlawful Distribution of Prescription DrugsRead the Press Release
FRANKFORT, Ky. – A compounding pharmacy based in Nicholasville, and its owner, were sentenced in federal court on Wednesday, by U.S. District Judge Gregory F. Van Tatenhove, for unlawful distribution of compounded prescription drugs. Tailor Made Compounding (TMC) was sentenced to three years probation and forfeited $1,788,906.82. The owner, Jeremy Delk, was sentenced to three years probation, including four months home incarceration, 100 hours of community service, a $20,000 fine, and a prohibition from participating in a business involving the distribution of prescription drugs.
Delk was sentenced on his guilty plea to one count of unlawfully engaging in wholesale distribution of a prescription drug, without licensing TMC as a wholesale distributor with the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy. According to his plea agreement, from October 23, 2018 through May 14, 2020, TMC sent 112 vials of Methylcobalamin, a prescription form of vitamin B12, to a licensed physician who operated an anti-aging/wellness clinic in the Greater Los Angeles area. Rather than sending individualized, patient-specific prescriptions to TMC, as is required by law, this physician made bulk orders of Methylcobalamin without issuing prescriptions or providing accurate patient names. Delk, as owner and chief executive officer of TMC, knowingly caused TMC to fill and ship bulk, wholesale distributions of Methylcobalamin to the physician, knowing that TMC had never applied for permission from the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy to act as a wholesale distributor of prescription drugs. When authorities from the FDA and the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy inspected TMC, between August 20 and October 24, 2018, Delk took steps to hide records of TMC’s wholesale distributions of Methylcobalamin, as well as other records.
TMC was sentenced on its guilty plea to one count of distributing unapproved new drugs throughout the United States, from October 25, 2018 through April 1, 2020. Specifically, TMC pleaded guilty to unlawful distribution of selective androgen receptor modulators (“SARMS”) and other substances that the FDA had not approved for distribution in the United States. SARMS are synthetic chemicals designed to mimic the effects of testosterone and other anabolic steroids. Products containing SARMS were often marketed and sold for body-building purposes. According to the plea agreement, TMC also unlawfully distributed other unapproved new drugs, including BPC 157, Cerebrolysin, CJC 1295, DSIP, Epitalon, GW 501516, Ipamorelin, LGD-4033, LL-37, Melanotan II, MK 677, PEG-MGF, Selank, and Semax. In connection with the plea, TMC agreed to forfeit $1,788,906.82, representing its 2019 sales for these products.
Tailor Made and Delk pleaded guilty in October 2020.
Carlton S. Shier, IV., Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Mark S. McCormack, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office; and James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation jointly announced the sentences.
The investigation was conducted by the FDA and the FBI. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate K. Smith.
Newark Man in Possession of Machine Guns Sentenced to 31 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Newark man was sentenced by the Honorable Colm F. Connolly, U.S. District Judge, today to 31 months in federal prison for possessing machinegun conversion devices.
According to court documents, law enforcement searched the residence of Nathan Matthews, 42, in August 2019. In an unlocked safe, they found a homemade 9 mm handgun, ammunition, and two machinegun conversion devices. A machinegun conversion device, or fully-automatic conversion device, sometimes referred to as a “Glock switch,” alters a firearm so that pulling the trigger once causes multiple bullets to fire. It is classified as a machinegun under the National Firearms Act and Gun Control Act.
By pleading guilty in federal court, Mr. Matthews also resolved charges against him in Harford County, Maryland. In May 2018, Mr. Matthews was arrested in Maryland for possession of a different homemade pistol, a different machinegun conversion device, and ammunition.
David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware stated, “Illegal firearms put our communities at risk. For those individuals who choose to circumvent firearm manufacturing regulations to create homemade handguns, be forewarned that my office will work tirelessly with our federal and local law enforcement partners to hold you accountable for your illegal conduct.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth Mandelbaum led the prosecution of this case. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Castle County Police Department.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:19-cr-00135.
Nashua Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Manuel Perkins, 28, of Nashua, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between June 4, 2019 and July 11, 2019, at the direction of agents, a cooperating individual arranged three purchases of approximately eight ounces of cocaine from Perkins.
On July 30, 2019, agents arrested Perkins on a warrant while he was driving to meet the cooperator for a prearranged sale of approximately eight ounces of cocaine. A search incident to arrest revealed $1,331 on his person. Law enforcement officers later searched Perkins’ vehicle pursuant to a search warrant and found over 221 grams of cocaine inside a backpack.
Perkins is scheduled to be sentenced on June 1, 2021.
“Cocaine is an illegal drug that seriously endangers the health of those who use it,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “The distribution of this drug detracts from the wellbeing of all of our citizen by undermining public safety. We are working with New Hampshire State Police, Homeland Security Investigations and all of the law enforcement agencies operating in New Hampshire to stop the sale of cocaine and other dangerous drugs.”
“One of HSI’s highest priorities remains disrupting drug traffickers who continue to pump deadly narcotics into our communities. Today’s guilty plea of Mr. Perkins underscores the importance of law enforcement partners working together in the fight against narcotics traffickers,” said William S. Walker, acting Special Agent In Charge, Homeland Investigations, Boston. “HSI, along with our New Hampshire law enforcement partners, remains steadfast in our commitment to aggressively investigate traffickers and their networks who peddle cocaine and other dangerous drugs throughout New England.”
This matter was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth.
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Multi-Kilogram Fentanyl Trafficker SentencedRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Arlington man was sentenced today to 151 months in prison for participating in a conspiracy to distribute over seven kilograms of fentanyl.
According to court documents, Cornelius Frazier, 32, and others would press illicit pills containing fentanyl, among other substances, to resemble prescription pills such as Oxycodone, for illegal distribution and financial gain.
“As this case demonstrates, fentanyl is not only extremely dangerous because of its potency, but also because it may be hidden in counterfeit prescription pills,” said Raj Parekh, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “We are grateful to the numerous law enforcement agencies that worked with our Office on this investigation and prevented kilograms of fentanyl from poisoning our communities and harming our loved ones. Their tireless efforts are saving lives.”
A June 1, 2020 court-authorized search of Frazier’s residence resulted in the seizure of a blender containing approximately one kilogram of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl. Law enforcement also seized paraphernalia associated with prescription drug trafficking, including a hydraulic jack, two dust collectors with a large amount of residue, an inductor motor, various cutting agents, and pill presses with several insets containing markings consistent with those found on controlled prescription painkillers such as Oxycodone. In addition, law enforcement seized approximately $34,828 in U.S. currency and a loaded AK-47 with thirty bullets in the magazine. Additional ammunition for this semi-automatic weapon and other firearms was also found in the residence.
Additionally, a June 1, 2020 court-authorized search of one of Frazier’s vehicles resulted in the seizure of two brick-like packages weighing over 1.6 kilograms, which tested positive for the presence of fentanyl. The vehicle also contained 5,307 pills, which tested positive for fentanyl and weighed approximately 4.4 kilograms. In another vehicle owned by Frazier, two machines used to create kilogram packages of controlled substances were seized pursuant to a search warrant.
Raj Parekh, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Mark R. Herring, Attorney General of Virginia; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division; Mary Gavin, Chief of Falls Church Police; Acting Chief Andy Penn, Arlington County Chief of Police; Michael L. Brown, Alexandria Chief of Police; and David Huchler, Chief of Police, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Rossie D. Alston, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bibeane Metsch and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Roberts prosecuted 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-207.
Moss Point Mayor and Wife Plead Guilty to Federal Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Moss Point Mayor Mario King, 33, and his wife, Natasha R. King, 32, of Moss Point, Mississippi, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to the Mayor’s Gala held in 2019, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca, Mississippi State Auditor Shad White, and Special Agent in Charge Michelle A. Sutphin of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Mario King and Natasha R. King began soliciting funds in late 2018 for a Gala to be held on March 23, 2019, in Moss Point. The written solicitation stated that the “gala honors and supports organizations that are making a difference for the mental health community. Proceeds support the efforts of mental health in the City of Moss Point with a focus on the Moss Point School District, converting spaces into a therapeutic and innovative learning environment.”
On March 4, 2019, Mario King and Natasha R. King appeared together on WLOX television and described the event, stating that funds from the Gala were to be used to create safe spaces for mental health counseling in the Moss Point School District.
It was the understanding of those contributing to the Gala, either in the form of tickets purchased or contributions, that the proceeds from the Gala would go to the Moss Point School District. Some of the funds were used to pay for the cost of the Gala, but the remaining proceeds did not go to the Moss Point School District. Instead, the defendants used the proceeds for personal purchases, including the down payment on the purchase of a vehicle, cash withdrawals and the payment of credit card debts involving charges to complete the purchase of a personal pet.
As part of the plea agreement, Mayor King will immediately resign his position as Mayor of Moss Point. The plea agreement with Natasha King includes a recommended sentence of probation. The Defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on May 26, 2021 and face up to five years on the conspiracy charge and a maximum fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated by the Mississippi State Auditor’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
Morris County Pharmacy Employee Charged with $1.9 Million Kickback and Bribery SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A pharmacy employee was charged for conspiring to offer and pay bribes and kickbacks in exchange for having prescriptions steered to the Morris County, New Jersey, pharmacy where he worked, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced today.
Srinivasa Raju, 49, of Haskell, New Jersey, was arrested today and charged by complaint with conspiring to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute. He had his initial appearance by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael A. Hammer and was released on $250,000 unsecured bond.
Magdalena Jimenez, 56, of Newark, New Jersey, was previously charged with a parallel bribery and kickback scheme involving the same pharmacy. Those charges remain pending.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Raju had various responsibilities at the Morris County pharmacy, including coordinating prescription deliveries and soliciting business. From at least January 2019, Raju worked with other pharmacy personnel to pay kickbacks and bribes to a doctor’s employee in exchange for receiving numerous prescriptions from that doctor’s Jersey City office.
Raju first paid the kickbacks and bribes using gift cards, but soon switched to cash and checks. He typically handed the kickbacks and bribes to coworkers inside the pharmacy and directed them to deliver the payments to the doctor’s employee. To conceal the true nature of some of the illicit payments, Raju had approximately $8,000 worth of checks made out to the employee’s relative, under the guise of paying for IT services. In truth, Raju never met or communicated with the relative, and no actual services were performed.
In November 2020, Raju was recorded inside the pharmacy directing an employee to deliver a kickback and bribe of “200 bucks for Thanksgiving.” Raju asked, “What do you think, I should give $300? What do you think?” Raju then counted out more cash, which he put in a sealed envelope to have hand delivered. In December 2020, he had a $250 cash kickback and bribe, which was stashed inside a Christmas card, hand delivered to the doctor’s employee, inside the doctor’s office.
The conspiracy charge is punishable by a maximum of five years in prison and a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss derived from the offense, whichever is greater.
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr. in Newark, and Special Agents with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, under the direction of Supervisory Special Agent Thomas Mahoney, with the investigation leading to the charges.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua L. Haber of the Health Care Fraud Unit.
The charges and allegations in the complaints against Raju and Jimenez are merely accusations, and they are both presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Merrillville Man Sentenced to 71 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Darrell Loving, 32, of Merrillville, Indiana, was sentenced by Judge James T. Moody to 71 months in prison following his guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Bell.
According to documents in the case, on December 11, 2019, at approximately midnight, Loving fled from an attempted traffic stop conducted by Indiana State Police on U.S. Highway 30 in Hobart, Indiana. Loving dragged an Indiana State Trooper approximately ten feet with his vehicle, resulting in the trooper suffering abrasions. Loving then fled westbound on U.S. Highway 30 in Merrillville past Interstate 65, speeding at 100 miles per hour and coming within inches or feet of hitting occupied police vehicles stopped at an unrelated accident scene. Loving sped through multiple red lights before pulling into a parking lot and fleeing on foot while tossing a bag containing cocaine and heroin. Loving has prior felony convictions for distribution of cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
During the sentencing hearing, the government asked for an enhanced sentence due to Loving’s conduct which posed a substantial risk of death or bodily injury to more than one person.
This case was the result of the investigative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Gang Response Investigative Team, Indiana State Police, and Hobart and Merrillville Police Departments. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Nozick.
Mason County Man Sentenced to 135 Months for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. - A Maysville, Kentucky man, Harry Elza Gilbert, 60, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison on Tuesday, by U.S. District Chief Judge Danny C. Reeves, for possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to his plea agreement, between August and December 2019, Gilbert possessed approximately 125 grams of methamphetamine that was seized by local law enforcement in both Mason and Lewis Counties. Gilbert admitted that intended to distribute the drugs.
Gilbert pled guilty in July 2020.
Under federal law, Gilbert must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years, after his release from prison.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; Johnny W. Bivens, Lewis County Sheriff and Jared Muse, Chief of the Maysville Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, and the Maysville Police Department. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wade Napier.
Madison Man Charged with Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced the unsealing of an indictment that charges Brandon Rankin, 26, Madison, Wisconsin, with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment was returned on February 10 by a federal grand jury sitting in Madison.
The indictment alleges that Rankin possessed a 9mm handgun on February 2, 2021.
Rankin was arrested yesterday in Madison by the U.S. Marshals Service and Madison Police Department, pursuant to a federal arrest warrant. He is being held at the Dane County Jail. A time has not been set for his initial appearance in U.S. District Court.
If convicted, Rankin faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Madison Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan is handling the prosecution.
You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Madison Felon Sentenced to 2 Years for Illegal Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Corvalis Stewart, 33, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. Chief District Judge James D. Peterson to 2 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of firearm. This prison term will be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Stewart pleaded guilty to this charge on November 12, 2020.
On August 20, 2020, Dane County Sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by Stewart in Madison. During the stop, marijuana was located in the vehicle. While the passenger was being detained, Stewart threw a loaded Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol out of the driver’s side window of the vehicle. A witness who saw Stewart throw the gun from the car notified law enforcement and deputies located the gun, which had a loaded magazine and a round in the chamber.
Stewart was prohibited from possessing a firearm based on multiple prior felony convictions. At the time of his arrest, Stewart was on state supervision for a previous conviction of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Stewart’s criminal history dates back to 2005 and includes two prior convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm, including a case where he shot a man in the leg. He also has a prior conviction for 2nd degree recklessly endangering safety for pointing a gun at two individuals and threatening to “blast them.”
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach involves collaboration by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and communities to prevent and deter gun violence.
The charge against Stewart was the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rita M. Rumbelow and Steven P. Anderson.
Madison County Man Sentenced to Six Months for Burglarizing Post OfficeRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Jeremy Cook, age 24, of Eaton, New York, was sentenced today to serve six months in prison for burglarizing a U.S. Post Office, announced Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon, Joseph Cronin, Postal Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and New York State Police Superintendent Keith Corlett.
As part of his earlier guilty plea, Cook admitted that on or about August 12, 2019, he broke into the U.S. Post Office in Eaton, with the intent to steal money. While inside the Post Office, Cook unsuccessfully attempted to break into a safe and then fled without taking any money.
Senior United States District Judge Frederick J. Scullin Jr. also imposed a three-year term of supervised release, to begin after Cook’s release from prison.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the New York State Police, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Sutcliffe.
Lincoln Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
BANGOR, Maine: A Lincoln man pleaded guilty today in federal court to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced.
According to court records, between approximately May 2018 and July 2018, Brandon Tolman, 32, was part of a drug distribution operation based out of Florida and operating in northern Maine. A co-conspirator obtained large quantities of methamphetamine from Florida and had it transported to Maine. Tolman sold the drug in the Lincoln area while other members of the conspiracy sold it in Bangor, Howland and Houlton.
Tolman faces up to 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency investigated the case.
Lexington Man Sentenced to 36 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking Multiple VictimsRead the Press Release
Prince Bixler, 41, of Lexington, Kentucky, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Robert E. Wier to 36 years in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $333,100 in restitution to three sex trafficking victims.
In September 2020, a federal jury convicted Bixler of 15 federal felonies related to his extensive and violent sex and drug trafficking operation that forced young, drug-addicted women to prostitute and sell crack cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamines throughout the Lexington area. Specifically, the jury convicted Bixler of three counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, two counts of tampering with a witness, victim or an informant, one count of operating an unlawful prostitution business enterprise, six counts of distributing controlled substances including crack cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, and three counts of being a felon in possession with a firearm.
“Prince Bixler cruelly used violence to create a climate of fear to coerce his victims, while at the same time he increased their dependence on him by exploiting and furthering their serious drug addictions,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Pam Karlan. “Human trafficking shatters the lives of those it impacts, leaving lasting physical and mental scars. There can be no place in our society for this conduct and I hope that today’s sentence brings some measure of justice to the victims while it also prevents Prince Bixler from harming others in the future.”
“Prince Bixler preyed on vulnerable women, to operate a prostitution enterprise and sell illegal drugs in our community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shier IV for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “His conduct caused enduring physical and emotional damage to these women, and further spread the devastation of highly addictive and dangerous drugs. We will continue to do our part in identifying, prosecuting, and punishing those who engage in human trafficking. The despicable conduct in this case justifies those efforts, and certainly warrants the punishment the Court has imposed.”
“Mr. Bixler was simply a predator in our community. This sentencing is a success in the fight against those who exploit the vulnerable and illustrates our dedication to bring these criminals to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge James “Robert” Brown Jr., FBI Louisville Field Office. “We are also grateful to our law enforcement partners, especially the ATF, the Lexington Police Department, the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, and the Eastern District of Kentucky’s U.S. Attorney’s Office for their unwavering efforts not only in this investigation, but in our continued fight to disrupt and dismantle human trafficking networks throughout the region.”
“Prince Bixler exploited women with physical violence and drugs while peddling illicit and deadly narcotics throughout the Lexington community,” said Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division. “Frequently these felons use firearms to further their violent, criminal activities. ATF is committed to investigating and arresting these felons and finding justice for their known and unknown victims.”
Evidence presented at trial, including the testimony of three victims, established that defendant Prince Bixler compelled three victims into prostitution between 2013 and March 2018 by physically assaulting them and others to create a climate of fear and intimidation. He exploited their dependence on crack cocaine or heroin, using it to worsen their addictions and to keep them around him. The defendant also sold crack cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine throughout the Lexington area to numerous customers. When the Lexington Police Department executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in March 2018, they recovered numerous firearms. The defendant, a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing these and other firearms.
As the investigation into the defendant’s illegal conduct continued throughout 2018 into 2019, he became aware that multiple potential witnesses were subpoenaed to testify before a federal grand jury in Lexington. The defendant threatened one witness with physical violence in an attempt to dissuade her from testifying truthfully before the grand jury. The defendant also repeatedly called and harassed another witness on the eve of her scheduled grand jury appearance in an attempt to prevent her from testifying truthfully before the grand jury.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Pam Karlan for the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shier IV for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI Louisville Field Office; R. Shawn Marrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence. This case was investigated by the Lexington FBI office, the Lexington ATF office, and the Lexington Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hydee Hawkins for the Eastern District of Kentucky and Special Litigation Counsel Matthew Grady for the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit.
Lexington Man Sentenced to 36 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking Multiple VictimsRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON—Prince Bixler, 41, of Lexington, Kentucky, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Robert E. Wier to 36 years in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $333,100 in restitution to three sex trafficking victims.
In September 2020, a federal jury convicted Bixler of 15 federal felonies related to his extensive and violent sex and drug trafficking operation that forced young, drug-addicted women to prostitute and sell crack cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamines throughout the Lexington area. Specifically, the jury convicted Bixler of three counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, two counts of tampering with a witness, victim or an informant, one count of operating an unlawful prostitution business enterprise, six counts of distributing controlled substances including crack cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, and three counts of being a felon in possession with a firearm.
“Prince Bixler cruelly used violence to create a climate of fear to coerce his victims, while at the same time he increased their dependence on him by exploiting and furthering their serious drug addictions,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Pam Karlan. “Human trafficking shatters the lives of those it impacts, leaving lasting physical and mental scars. There can be no place in our society for this conduct and I hope that today’s sentence brings some measure of justice to the victims while it also prevents Prince Bixler from harming others in the future.”
“Prince Bixler preyed on vulnerable women, to operate a prostitution enterprise and sell illegal drugs in our community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Shier. “His conduct caused enduring physical and emotional damage to these women, and further spread the devastation of highly addictive and dangerous drugs. We will continue to do our part in identifying, prosecuting, and punishing those who engage in human trafficking. The despicable conduct in this case justifies those efforts, and certainly warrants the punishment the Court has imposed.”
“Mr. Bixler was simply a predator in our community. This sentencing is a success in the fight against those who exploit the vulnerable and illustrates our dedication to bring these criminals to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge James “Robert” Brown, Jr., FBI Louisville. “We are also grateful to our law enforcement partners, especially the ATF, the Lexington Police Department, Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, and the Eastern District of Kentucky’s U.S. Attorney’s Office, for their unwavering efforts not only in this investigation, but in our continued fight to disrupt and dismantle human trafficking networks throughout the region.”
“Prince Bixler exploited women with physical violence and drugs while peddling illicit, and deadly narcotics throughout the Lexington community,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Field Division. “Frequently these felons use firearms to further their violent, criminal activities. ATF is committed to investigating and arresting these felons and finding justice for their known and unknown victims.”
Evidence presented at trial, including the testimony of three victims, established that defendant Prince Bixler compelled three victims into prostitution between 2013 and March 2018 by physically assaulting them and others to create a climate of fear and intimidation. He exploited their dependence on crack cocaine or heroin, using it to worsen their addictions and to keep them around him. The defendant also sold crack cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine throughout the Lexington area to numerous customers. When the Lexington Police Department executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in March 2018, they recovered numerous firearms. The defendant, a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing these and other firearms.
As the investigation into the defendant’s illegal conduct continued throughout 2018 into 2019, he became aware that multiple potential witnesses were subpoenaed to testify before a federal grand jury in Lexington. The defendant threatened one witness with physical violence in an attempt to dissuade her from testifying truthfully before the grand jury. The defendant also repeatedly called and harassed another witness on the eve of her scheduled grand jury appearance in an attempt to prevent her from testifying truthfully before the grand jury.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Pam Karlan for the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shier, IV for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; R. Shawn Marrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence. This case was investigated by the Lexington FBI office, the Lexington ATF office, and the Lexington Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hydee Hawkins for the Eastern District of Kentucky and Special Litigation Counsel Matthew Grady for the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit.
Keene Man Sentenced to 41 Months for Extortion and Threat OffensesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Christopher C. Cantwell, 40, of Keene, was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison after being convicted of extortion and threat charges by a federal jury in September, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
During four days of trial testimony, the jury was presented with evidence that Cantwell maintained an active online presence, including operating a website and an internet call-in program. Evidence at trial showed that Cantwell believed that members of an online group called the “Bowl Patrol” had been harassing him online. Cantwell contacted the victim in this case seeking to obtain identifying information about the leader of the Bowl Patrol, an individual who used the name “Vic Mackey.”
When the victim did not disclose the information Cantwell sought, on June 16, 2019, Cantwell sent an electronic message through the Telegram messaging application, stating, “So if you don’t want me to come and f*ck your wife in front of your kids, then you should make yourself scarce[.] Give me Vic, it’s your only out.”
Between June 15, 2019, and June 17, 2019, Cantwell also sent a series of messages to the victim in which he threatened to injure the victim’s reputation by posting identifying information about the victim online (commonly referred to as “doxing”) and reporting the victim to child protection authorities if he did not receive information about “Vic Mackey.” Evidence presented at trial showed that Cantwell did “dox” the victim on June 17, 2019, by posting identifying information and photographs related to the victim and the victim’s family online. Cantwell also called child protection authorities in Missouri and made a report about the victim.
Cantwell was convicted of one count of transmitting extortionate communications and one count of threatening to injure property or reputation. The jury found Cantwell not guilty of cyberstalking. Cantwell has been in custody since his arrest on January 23, 2020.
“Threats to commit violence have no place in our society” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Using the internet to convey threats and extortionate messages can have a serious harmful impact on victims and violates federal law. I commend the FBI and our other law enforcement partners who did an excellent job in investigating this case. They successfully completed a difficult multi-state investigation ensuring that Mr. Cantwell was held responsible for his actions.”
“The First Amendment does not protect those who choose to engage in criminal activity based on hateful beliefs, but a jury of Christopher Cantwell’s peers found he did exactly that, and with today’s sentence he has now been held accountable for his violent threats,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “My thanks to our Joint Terrorism Task Force in New Hampshire for their efforts in protecting all citizens from harm.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police, Keene Police Department, and the Manchester Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Anna Krasinski.
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KC Woman Indicted for Two Armed Bank Robberies Following High-Speed Police ChaseRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Missouri, woman who led police officers on a high-speed chase down Grand Avenue was indicted by a federal grand jury today for two armed bank robberies.
Sarah Theresa Watkins, 41, was charged in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo. Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Watkins on Feb. 5, 2021.
Today’s indictment charges Watkins with the armed robbery of Central Bank in Claycomo, Mo., on Feb. 1, 2021, and the armed robbery of Capitol Federal Savings in Liberty, Mo., on Feb. 2, 2021.
According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaints, Watkins entered Central Bank at 11:24 a.m. on Feb. 1, 2021, and approached a teller window. Watkins handed the teller a note that stated "HAND OVER ALL THE MONEY AND I WON'T SHOOT." She allegedly pulled a gun out of her purse and pointed it at the teller. When the teller pulled the money out of the drawers and placed it on the counter, the affidavit says, Watkins took the money and ran out of the bank. The bank reported a loss of $1,819.
Surveillance video footage from an exterior ATM of the bank captured video footage of a white Hyundai, four-door sedan. This vehicle appears to be the same vehicle that was involved in a bank robbery that occurred the next day, on Feb. 2, 2021.
According to the affidavit, Watkins entered Capitol Federal Savings in Liberty at 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 2, 2021. Watkins took a note out of her bag and placed it on the counter, the affidavit says. The note stated: "HAND ME ALL THE MONEY OR I WILL SHOOT." While the teller was reading the note, Watkins allegedly stated: "All of it, hurry up, all of it!" The teller began opening her cash drawer, the affidavit says, when she heard the noise of a heavy object hitting the counter. The teller saw that Watkins had a black semi-automatic handgun in her hand, resting on the counter and pointed at the teller. When the teller took money out of the drawer and placed it on the counter, Watkins allegedly took the money, put it in her bag, and left through the main door of the lobby. The bank reported a loss of $971.
Surveillance video cameras captured footage of the white Hyundai four-door sedan (and license plate number) allegedly driven by Watkins when she arrived at the bank, and when she left the bank.
Law enforcement officers located the vehicle on Feb. 4, 2021. Kansas City police officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop in the area of 27th Street and Brooklyn Avenue. Watkins, however, drove around the officers in an attempt to flee. A vehicle pursuit ensued, during which officers attempted to immobilize Watkins’ vehicle on three occasions, but she continued to drive around the officers and flee. The pursuit continued at high rates of speed, up to 70 miles per hour while going northbound on Grand Avenue. During the pursuit, traffic was congested at different points along Grand Avenue. The pursuit ended when Watkins lost control of the vehicle in the area E. 21st Street and Walnut Street. Watkins attempted to flee on foot, but was apprehended by police officers. As she exited the vehicle, the affidavit says, Watkins reached into her waistband, then pointed at officers with her index finger extended forward, and her thumb extended upward, possibly attempting to imitate a handgun.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the FBI and the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department.
KC Man Pleads Guilty to Meth Trafficking, Illegal Firearm Following High-Speed Police ChaseRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Missouri, man has pleaded guilty in federal court to illegally possessing methamphetamine and a firearm.
Michael Allen Dicks, Jr., 31, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips on Tuesday, Feb. 23, to one count of possessing methamphetamine to distribute and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.
According to his plea agreement, a Platte County, Mo., sheriff’s deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop of a Nissan Altima driven by Dicks on March 16, 2020, after Dicks failed to stop at a red light at the intersection of N.W. Cookingham and N. Ambassador in Kansas City, Mo. Dicks failed to stop, and during the ensuing vehicle pursuit the Altima reached speeds of 130 miles per hour. Dicks also drove the wrong way on 152 Highway in an attempt to elude law enforcement. During the pursuit, the Altima crashed in the area of N.W. 92nd Terrace and N.W. Old Tiffany Springs Parkway. Due to his injuries from the crash, Dicks was taken to a local hospital by ambulance.
Inside Dick’s vehicle, deputies found a loaded Sig Sauer 9mm semi-automatic handgun and four bags that contained a total of 462.7 grams (more than one pound) of pure methamphetamine.
Under federal statutes, Dicks is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life 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 Bradley K. Kavanaugh. It was investigated by the DEA and the Platte County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.
Justice Department files lawsuit against Creve Coeur pharmacist for Controlled Substances Act violationsRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – In a complaint filed February 23, 2021, by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri, the government alleges Elizabeth Dembo unlawfully dispensed controlled substances to patients during her time as the pharmacist-in-charge of Olive Street Pharmacy, LLC. The retail pharmacy is located in the 10000 block of Old Olive Street Road, in Creve Coeur, Missouri. Dembo repeatedly filled prescriptions while disregarding ample warning signs of diversion, or “red flags,” indicating the prescriptions were not legitimate.
The complaint accuses Dembo of routinely filling prescriptions for Subsys, an oral fentanyl spray, which is subject to heightened FDA restrictions and indicated only for opioid-tolerant patients experiencing breakthrough pain due to cancer. The complaint states Dembo dispensed high dosages of Subsys to patients despite knowing they did not qualify for the drug. The complaint also states the vast majority of the Subsys Dembo dispensed was prescribed by Philip Dean, a Warrenton, Missouri neurologist who pleaded guilty to illegally distributing prescription opioids in 2018, including to women with whom he had lived and with whom he had had personal relationships. The complaint alleges Dembo knew Dean was having intimate relationships with at least one of the women for whom he was prescribing controlled substances, but nonetheless continued to dispense Dean’s controlled substance prescriptions to her and others.
Other red flags described in the complaint include clear instances of tampering with written prescriptions; dangerous combinations of drugs commonly sought after for recreational purposes; and amounts of opioids that exceeded CDC guidance by as much as 17.5 times the recommended maximum daily dosage. Despite these warning signs, the complaint alleges, Dembo continuously dispensed prescriptions she knew or should have known had no medical purpose.
The complaint states this unlawful conduct resulted in numerous violations of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), and—when the prescriptions were submitted to Medicaid or Medicare for reimbursement—violations of the False Claims Act (FCA). The United States seeks civil penalties under the CSA, as well as treble damages and penalties under the FCA.
If Dembo is found liable for violating the CSA, she could face civil penalties of up to $67,627 for each unlawful prescription filled. If she is found liable for violating the FCA, she could face treble damages for fraudulent prescriptions billed to Medicaid and Medicare, as well as penalties from $11,665 and up to $23,331 per fraudulent prescription.
“As we continue to battle a national health emergency involving opioid abuse, we rely heavily upon pharmacists to do their part in ensuring prescriptions for controlled substances are filled and dispensed for legitimate medical purposes,” said Inez Davis, Diversion Program Manager of the Drug Enforcement Administration St. Louis Division. “Now more than ever, due diligence on the part of the entire medical community is needed to ensure prescription opioid medications are prescribed and dispensed appropriately. Pharmacists can be considered a last line of defense in preventing the diversion of prescription drugs.”
“When a pharmacist fails in their responsibility to follow the requirements of the Controlled Substance Act, they compromise public trust and may cause great harm to our citizens and communities,” said Curt L. Muller, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “We will continue working with our local, state, and federal partners to hold accountable individuals that put the public at risk.”
The claims made in the complaint are allegations the United States must prove if the case proceeds to trial.
The Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Missouri Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Amy Sestric is handling the case.
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Jacksonville Man Sentenced to More Than Eight Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Images Using the Kik Social Media AppRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced Earl Frederic Owens (33, Jacksonville) to eight years and nine months in federal prison for distributing child sex abuse images using the Kik social media application. Owens was also ordered to serve a 10-year term of supervised release, register as a sex offender, and pay $3,000 in restitution to a child victim. Owens has been in custody since his arrest on November 19, 2019.
Owens had pleaded guilty on November 17, 2020.
According to evidence and court documents, the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Cyber Crimes Center received a report from Kik, a social messaging app, that several different user accounts had uploaded images depicting the sexual exploitation of children using the Kik app. Further investigation revealed that these materials were distributed online from an apartment in Jacksonville, where Owens lived.
On November 19, 2019, HSI agents executed a search warrant at Owens’s apartment. During an interview with agents, Owens admitted that he uses the Kik app to chat with strangers about his “urges,” he has an interest in “pedophilia,” and that he traded child sex abuse materials with others online using the Kik app. A forensic examination of Owens’s computer devices revealed that Owens had collected at least 2,149 images and 23 videos depicting young children being sexually abused. Online chat conversations were recovered from Owens’s smart phone showing that he had offered to pay an individual for nude pictures of underage girls. Several stories authored by Owens were recovered in which he had described, in graphic detail, the sexual assault and molestation of young children.
“The exploitation of innocent children has no place in our communities and we will vigorously pursue prosecution of anyone involved in the production, distribution, or possession of child pornography to the fullest extent of the law,” said HSI Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge K. Jim Phillips. “This case highlights how important the law enforcement partnerships between HSI Jacksonville, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office are in order to protect our children.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Iowa City Woman Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa — On Monday, February 22, 2021, United States District Court Chief Judge John A. Jarvey sentenced Stefani Amber Goodwin, age 38, of Iowa City, to 96 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine announced Acting United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal. Following her prison term, Goodwin was ordered to serve five years of supervised release, as well as pay $100 to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The investigation of Goodwin and her co-defendant, Shaun Michael Farrington, began in late-September 2019 when they were observed driving a vehicle that was identified as being involved in a different methamphetamine trafficking investigation. GPS records showed the vehicle traveling to various locations throughout Southeast Iowa, making numerous stops at known drug trafficking locations. On October 2, 2019, the decision was made to stop the vehicle as officers believed it was beginning another drug run, and Farrington was driving with a suspended license. A positive K-9 alert prompted a search of their vehicle resulting in the uncovering of approximately 350 grams of ice methamphetamine. Goodwin admitted to conspiring with Farrington to sell significant quantities of actual methamphetamine throughout Southeast Iowa.
This matter was investigated by the Henry County Sheriff’s Office and the case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Indictment Charges R.I. Businessman with Smuggling Vehicles from the United States to LebanonRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Rhode Island man who owns and operates, among other businesses, an auto sales and salvage company was arraigned today in U.S. District Court in Providence on charges he allegedly filed false export information with the United States Department of Commerce and smuggled nineteen vehicles from the United States to Lebanon.
It is alleged in an indictment unsealed today that in February and March 2016, Carlo Fakhri, 50, of Fall River, MA, a naturalized United States citizen born in Lebanon, smuggled fifteen pick-up trucks, a passenger vehicle, two Suburbans, and a Range Rover to Lebanon without supplying complete and correct information to the Commerce Department as required by law, including the correct name, address, identification number, and contact information for the purchaser and receiver of each vehicle.
It is alleged in the indictment that Fakhri failed to follow Foreign Trade Regulations that mandate that all persons engaged in the export of commodities file accurate information with the United States government regarding the exports via the government’s Automated Export System (AES). Foreign Trade Regulations, authorized by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, strengthen the U.S government’s ability to prevent the export of certain items, including motor vehicles, to unauthorized destinations and/or end users. The AES aids in targeting and identifying suspicious or illegal shipments prior to exportation.
Carlo Fakhri, who operates, among other businesses, D’Agostinos Auto Sales and Salvage, Inc., in North Providence, R.I., was arraigned today on charges of submission of false export information and smuggling, announced United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman, Homeland Security Investigations Acting Special Agent in Charge William S. Walker, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division Joseph R. Bonavolonta, and Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Commerce Office of Export Enforcement Boston Field Office William Higgins.
A federal indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
If convicted as charged in the indictment, Carlo Fakhri faces statutory penalties of up to 15 years in federal prison, 3 years supervised release, and a fine of up to $360,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul F. Daly, Jr.
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Hogansburg Man Arrested for SmugglingRead the Press Release
PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – Kyle Thompson, age 28, of Hogansburg, New York, was arrested on February 17 and charged by criminal complaint with alien smuggling in connection with a failed smuggling event.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Robert N. Garcia, Chief Patrol Agent, United States Border Patrol, Swanton Sector.
The criminal complaint alleges that Thompson was arrested while transporting two illegal aliens who had illegally crossed into the United States via the St. Lawrence River near Hogansburg. The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police attempted to stop Thompson’s vehicle as he fled with the occupants in his vehicle. Thompson drove his vehicle into a snowbank and was ultimately apprehended. There were no injuries to Thompson or the occupants. Border Patrol Agents from the Massena Border Patrol Station detained Thompson and the two occupants.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Thompson appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Gary L. Favro on February 18 and was ordered detained.
If convicted, Thompson faces up to 5 years in prison. The two occupants of the vehicle are citizens of Romania and illegally present in the United States. Both were arrested by Border Patrol and are being prosecuted for illegal entry, a misdemeanor.
This case is being investigated by United States Border Patrol and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt.
Health Care Executive Sentenced to More Than 3 Years for Defrauding the IRSRead the Press Release
A health care executive was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison and ordered to pay more than $3.4 million in restitution for defrauding the IRS, announced Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Prerak Shah.
Donald O’Connor Ramsey, 72, pleaded guilty to failure to pay over withholding and FICA taxes in February 2020. Mr. Ramsey was sentenced yesterday afternoon before U.S. District Judge Sam A. Lindsay.
“Individuals and businesses that willfully fail to pay their tax obligations harm all Americans,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Shah. “The Department of Justice is committed to aggressively prosecuting those individuals who seek to circumvent U.S. tax laws.”
“I’m proud of our agent’s hard work in this investigation. This defendant ‘knowingly and willingly’ took money from his employees and failed to remit these payroll taxes to the government” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Mark Pearson, Dallas Field Office. “Mr. Ramsey’s punishment reflects the consequence of not paying taxes in a truthful and timely manner and the importance of the continued partnership between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas and the IRS Criminal Investigation in the pursuit of these criminals.”
According to court documents, Mr. Ramsey, owner and chief financial officer of Community Care Medical (CCM) and Medical Case Management & Social Services (MCM), failed to pay employment taxes to the IRS from 2013 to 2018.
Mr. Ramsey directed CCM and MCM to withhold taxes from its employee’s paychecks, including income, Medicare, and Social Security taxes.
Both companies were required to make deposits of the payroll taxes to the IRS on a periodic basis. In addition, CCM and MCM were required to file an Employer’s Quarterly Federal Income Tax Return (From 941) which includes the total amount of wages and other compensation subject to withholding, the total amount of income tax withheld, the total amount of Social Security and Medicare taxes due, and the total tax deposits.
From 2013 to 2018, Mr. Ramsey failed to regularly file quarterly returns with the IRS, while continuing to withhold his employees’ salaries.
Mr. Ramsey conduct resulted in a tax loss of approximately $1.9 million to the IRS.
IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Bunch prosecuted the case.
Hartford Man Admits Sexually Assaulting Young Girl, Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RONALD DANIEL, 51, of Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley to one count of production of child pornography stemming from his sexual assault of a young girl.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on at least two occasions in 2018, Daniel sexually abused a prepubescent female and took cellphone photos of his sexual abuse. He also distributed some of these images, as well as other images and videos of child pornography, through the Kik mobile application. Daniel’s Kik username was “letsgogetluv.”
Daniel has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on June 10, 2019.
Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for May 24, 2021, at which time Daniel faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years.
This matter has been investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Connecticut State Police and the Vernon Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Harrisburg Man Sentenced to Two Years of Probation for Failing to Pay Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Darasomalee Thach, age 36, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 23, 2021, to two years of probation, by Chief U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones III, for conspiring to defraud the United States by failing to pay employment taxes. Thach was ordered to pay $360,897.86 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service.
According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Thach previously admitted that while he co-owned and operated a temporary staffing company in Harrisburg, he failed to withhold and pay over employment taxes in order to maximize his personal profit. The unlawful conduct occurred from 2011 through 2015.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli and former Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy prosecuted the case.
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Guatemalan Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Reentry by an Alien Removed After Conviction of a FelonyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Gerber Estif Pineda-Sierra, 34, an illegal alien from Guatemala, pled guilty yesterday before U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr., to unlawful reentry by an alien deported or removed after conviction of a felony, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca, and Michael J. Harrison, Acting Chief Patrol Agent of the Border Patrol’s New Orleans Sector.
Pineda-Sierra will be sentenced by Judge Guirola on May 11, 2021, at 1:30 p.m. and faces a potential maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment, in addition to 3 years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. He also faces Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proceedings regarding removal from the United States following the completion of any prison sentence.
On November 11, 2020, Gerber Estif Pineda-Sierra was arrested by U.S. Borter Patrol agents after an investigation determined that he had been previously removed from the U.S. and was residing in the Gulfport area. Record checks documented that in 2018, Pineda-Sierra had been physically removed from the U.S. after being ordered removed by a U.S. Immigration Judge. He later reentered the U.S. and was convicted in the Northern District of Florida in 2019, for the felony offense of illegal reentry into the U.S. of a previously deported alien. He was again removed from the U.S. in October 2019. In January 2020, he was arrested by the Border Patrol, and was returned to Guatemala in February 2020.
Acting U.S. Attorney LaMarca praised the investigative work of the U.S. Border Patrol and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Assistant United States Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for the case.
Georgia couple sentenced for importing and distributing male enhancement products and counterfeit goods from China as well as naturalization fraudRead the Press Release
ROME, Ga. - Irfanali Momin and Shiba I. Momin a/k/a Saguftabanu Momin, husband and wife, have been sentenced to prison for naturalization fraud and conspiring to illegally import and distribute misbranded drug products from China and traffic counterfeit goods. The Momins have also been criminally denaturalized as result of their convictions for naturalization fraud.
“The defendants built their business and earned their citizenship through fraud,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kurt R. Erskine. “And, by illegally importing and distributing products containing drugs that can only be obtained in the United States with a prescription written by a licensed medical professional, the Momins put profit over public safety.”
“This announcement demonstrates that those who subvert the regulatory functions of the FDA by distributing misbranded drugs containing undeclared prescription drug ingredients and counterfeit tobacco products will be held accountable for their actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin C. Fielder, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Miami Field Office. “We will continue to bring to justice those who place American consumers at risk by selling these illegal and potentially dangerous products.”
“The Momins lived a life of lies in this country from their fraudulent citizenship to their business of selling illegal products to customers whose health was threatened by the use of those products,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Now they will pay for their deception in prison time and loss of their citizenship. The FBI is committed to working with our federal partners to protect our citizens against anyone who would choose to do them harm.”
“The Momins will now face the consequences of their lies and schemes to illegally gain citizenship and import and sell misbranded pharmaceuticals. Their actions not only placed unsuspecting purchasers at risk, they also threatened the integrity of the US immigration system,” said Special Agent in Charge Katrina W. Berger, who oversees Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) operations in Georgia and Alabama. “Homeland Security Investigations and its law enforcement partners will aggressively pursue those that seek to profit from these fraudulent and dangerous activities.”According to Acting U.S. Attorney Erskine, the charges and other information presented in court: Between August 2014 and November 2018, the Momins ordered and sold male enhancement products from China marketed under various names. These products contained sildenafil, the active pharmaceutical ingredient in Viagra, and/or tadalafil, the active pharmaceutical ingredient in Cialis. Both Viagra and Cialis can be obtained in the U.S. only with a prescription from a doctor.
The Momins had in fact received more than a dozen notices from the FDA advising them to not sell these products. The FDA has also warned consumers for more than half-a-decade to not purchase or use such “all natural” sexual products because they could have serious side effects, especially in men who are taking nitrates and suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease.
In order to evade import restrictions, the Momins’ China-based suppliers mislabeled the boxes containing the illegal pills to make it appear that the boxes contained items that can be legally imported into the U.S., such as beauty products, health products, and health supplies. The Momins admitted to selling between $550,000 and $1.5 million in illegal drug products over the course of the conspiracy. They also sold various counterfeit goods from their warehouse in Dalton, Georgia, including counterfeit designer watches, headphones, e-cigarette devices, and tobacco rolling papers.
Earlier, in October 2013, the Momins both applied to become naturalized U.S. citizens. On his application form, Irfanali Momin falsely stated that he had never been married before and did not disclose that he had in fact been married to two women at the same time. During an interview with USCIS in June 2014, Irfanali Momin made the same false declarations. Based upon his false statements, Irfanali Momin became a naturalized U.S. citizen on August 16, 2014. On her application form, Shiba I. Momin a/k/a Saguftabanu Momin, falsely stated that she did not go by any other names when in fact she knew that her actual name was Shiba I. Momin, but she was only passing as Saguftabanu Momin. The investigation had revealed that Shiba I. Momin had originally obtained a Georgia’s driver’s license in her real name only to later obtain a fraudulent license in the name Saguftabanu Momin—the name she used to apply for and fraudulently receive U.S. citizenship on August 1, 2014. If USCIS had been aware of these facts, it would have denied her citizenship
On February 12, 2021, Irfanali Momin, 48, and Shiba I. Momin a/k/a Saguftabanu Momin, 42, both of Dahlonega, Georgia, were each sentenced by U.S. District Judge Steve C. Jones to one year, six months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay a special assessment of $200. They were both convicted on September 23, 2020 after pleading guilty to a criminal information. On February 23, 2021, Judge Jones issued orders revoking their U.S. citizenship.
This case was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex R. Sistla prosecuted the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Franklin County Man Sentenced to Five Years’ Imprisonment for Receiving and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Craig Killmeyer, age 56, of Greencastle, Pennsylvania, was sentenced yesterday to five years’ imprisonment to be followed by ten years of supervised release, by Chief U.S District Court Judge John E. Jones III, for receiving and distributing child pornography.
According to Acting United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Killmeyer previously admitted to receiving and distributing images of child pornography between December 2017 and December 2018. Killmeyer used Kik Messenger to send and receive the images.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli and former Assistant U.S. Attorney James T. Clancy prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute 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.”
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Four Southwest Mississippi Men Sentenced for Violating Federal Wildlife LawsRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Kenneth R. Britt, Jr., 51, of Wesson, Tony Grant Smith, 26, of Wesson, Barney Leon Bairfield, III, 28, of Brookhaven, and Dustin Corey Treadway, 28, of Brookhaven, were sentenced today by U.S. District Judge David Bramlette for violating federal wildlife laws.
Britt, Smith, and Bairfield were sentenced for conspiring in 2018 to kill in excess of the legal limit of Kansas wild turkeys while unlicensed and transporting the wild turkeys across state lines to Mississippi. In addition, Treadway was sentenced for aiding and abetting similar federal violations in 2017, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca, Assistant Director Edward Grace of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and Colonel Steve Adcock of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP).
The defendants’ unlawful activities took place in Kansas and Nebraska. In 2018, Britt, Smith and Bairfield killed over 25 wild turkeys without the required hunting licenses and over the limit of two per person per season, in violation of Kansas law. They returned to Mississippi with trophy spurs and beards of the illegally-killed turkeys. Treadway killed wild turkeys in Kansas in 2017 without a proper license and over the limit. He also returned to Mississippi with the trophy spurs and beards. Under the federal Lacey Act, it is unlawful for any person to transport across state lines any wildlife taken in violation of state law.
Judge Bramlette sentenced Britt to 5 years of probation under the supervision of the United States Probation Service, a fine of $25,000, and a worldwide prohibition from hunting of any type for 5 years; Smith to 4 years of probation under the supervision of the United States Probation Service, a fine of $15,000, and a worldwide prohibition from hunting of any type for 4 years; Bairfield to 2 years of probation under the supervision of the United States Probation Service, a fine of $3,000, and a worldwide prohibition from hunting of any type for 2 years; and, Treadway to 2 years of probation under the supervision of the United States Probation Service, a fine of $5,000, and a worldwide prohibition from hunting of any type for 2 years. The prohibition of hunting also prohibits accompanying anyone in hunting or being present at a hunting camp during any hunting season. A violation of the hunting prohibition or any other term of probation will subject each to a term of imprisonment by Judge Bramlette.
“The Department of Justice is committed to enforcing the Lacey Act and other federal laws to protect our wildlife resources,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca. “This office will continue to work closely with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks to enforce the Lacey Act. It is my hope that this prosecution sends a strong message that the wanton, indiscriminate killing of the American Wild Turkey, or any animal for that matter, will be met with debilitating and just consequences.”
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement Assistant Director Ed Grace stated, “The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement is committed to conduct criminal investigations with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks in an effort to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats. The Office of Law Enforcement takes violations of the Lacey Act seriously. The yearlong investigation involving the four defendants responsible for the unlawful harvest and subsequent transportation in interstate commerce of 26 wild turkeys from Kansas and Nebraska is no exception. We will continue to work closely with our state partners to conduct these important joint investigations.”
MDWFP Colonel Steve Adcock stated, “The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, will continue to work diligently, to find and prosecute those persons who steal from our valuable natural resources. The primary mission of the MDWFP Law Enforcement Bureau is to detect and hold accountable those persons who jeopardize our rich hunting heritage by committing lawless acts such as these.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. It is being prosecuted by Acting United States Attorney Darren J. LaMarca.
Former VA Hospice Nurse Sentenced for Diverting and Tampering with Morphine Meant for Dying VeteransRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Tewksbury woman was sentenced today for diverting morphine while she was employed as a nurse in the hospice unit at the Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center campus in Bedford.
Kathleen Noftle, 55, was sentenced to 40 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In October 2020, Noftle pleaded guilty to one count of tampering with a consumer product and one count of obtaining a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, deception and subterfuge.
On Jan. 13, 14 and 15, 2017, Noftle used her position as a nurse to obtain doses of morphine that were meant to be given to the veterans under her care in the hospice unit. Noftle admitted that she mixed water from the sink with a portion of the liquid morphine doses, and then administered the diluted medication to patients orally. Noftle then ingested a diluted amount of the remaining drug.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney William B. Brady of Lelling’s Health Care Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.