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Monday 9 November 2020
El Dorado Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
El Dorado, Arkansas – David Clay Fowlkes, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, announced that Marcus Damon Howard, 42, of El Dorado, Arkansas, was sentenced on November 6, 2020, to 120 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and one count of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. The Honorable Chief Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing, in the United States District Court’s El Dorado Division.
According to court records, on July 1, 2018, Investigators with the Criminal Apprehension Division (CAD), observed a vehicle fail to stop at a stop sign. As the vehicle continued travelling, Investigators observed the driver throw a cigarette pack wrapper out of the driver’s window. Based upon the observed violations, Investigators conducted a traffic stop. When the vehicle stopped, Investigators made contact with its driver and sole occupant Howard. Investigators were advised that Howard was on active state parole and had a search wavier on file. A search of the vehicle resulted in Investigators locating a clear plastic bag that contained 18 smaller plastic baggies of suspected marijuana and 2 baggies of suspected methamphetamine. CAD Investigators also conducted a search of Howard’s residence. That search resulted in Investigators locating three firearms, miscellaneous drug paraphernalia, fentanyl, additional marijuana and additional methamphetamine.
The suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine were sent to the DEA Crime laboratory for analysis. The laboratory was able to confirm positive test results for fentanyl and methamphetamine.
Howard was indicted by a federal grand jury in November of 2019, and entered a guilty plea in June of 2020.
This case was prosecuted as a part of the Department of Justice=s Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative, which is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of firearms and improving the safety of residents in the Western District of Arkansas. Participants in the initiative include federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 13th Judicial District Drug Task Force, El Dorado Police Department, and Union County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Graham Jones prosecuted the case for the Western District of Arkansas.
East Hartford Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Gun in HartfordRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford has returned an indictment charging GREGORY CRAWFORD, 36, of East Hartford, with unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The indictment was returned on October 20, 2020. Crawford appeared today via videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge William I. Garfinkel and entered a plea of not guilty to the offense.
The indictment alleges that, on June 29, 2020, Crawford possessed a Haskell Hi-Point .45 pistol in Hartford. Prior to that date, Crawford was convicted in state court of felony assault, robbery and narcotics charges.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Crawford has been detained in state custody since his arrest by Hartford Police on June 29, 2020.
The charge of possession of firearm by a convicted felon carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the FBI’s Connecticut Violent Crime Task Force and the Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.
This prosecution has been brought through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Crystal Lake Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Income Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A Crystal Lake resident pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Iain D. Johnston to federal income tax evasion.
GARY T. PETERSEN, 55, was president and sole shareholder of Petersen Sealcoating and Paving, Inc., a business located in Crystal Lake. According to a written plea agreement, Petersen in 2016 deposited checks received by PSPI as payment for its services and products into bank accounts Petersen held with family members and other accounts held by his family members that he controlled. Petersen also cashed checks PSPI received and personally retained the cash, with the intention of excluding the money from income reported by PSPI to the IRS.
For the calendar year 2016, Petersen provided PSPI income information to his tax preparer, but concealed checks that he deposited into his joint and controlled accounts, and the checks he cashed. On March 23, 2017, Petersen caused a false U.S. Individual Income Tax Return Form 1040 to be filed, stating the he and a co-filer had taxable income of $75,028 and that the amount of tax due was $10,919, when Petersen knew he and his co-filer had taxable income of approximately $1,174,261, and the additional amount of income tax due was approximately $402,431.
Petersen also admitted that during the calendar years 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015, he engaged in the same acts, underreporting PSPI’s income and his personal income on tax forms that would have resulted in additional tax due of $33,216 in 2012, $82,388 in 2013, $146,853 in 2014, and $356,230 in 2015.
Petersen faces a maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment, and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or gross loss resulting from the offense, whichever is greater. The actual sentence will be determined by the U.S. District Court, guided by the Sentencing Guidelines. Sentencing is set for Feb. 17, 2021, at 10:30 a.m.
The guilty plea was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Todd Martin, Acting Special Agent-In-Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation Division in Chicago. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Love.
Conway Woman Sentenced to over 11 Years in Federal Prison after Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
Florence, South Carolina --- United States Attorney Peter M. McCoy, Jr., announced today that Amy Marie Mishoe, 33, of Conway, was sentenced to over 11 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of Fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on April 11, 2018, the Horry County Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) executed a state search warrant at Mishoe’s house in Conway. During the search, DEU found firearms, ammunition, and 132 tablets of Oxycodone.
On March 26, 2019, Loris Police Department responded to a store in Loris in reference to a possible overdose of an individual. The individual’s girlfriend told the officers she and her boyfriend went to a woman’s house, who the individual later identified as Mishoe, to get the individual’s prescribed medication that had been picked up. However, Mishoe would not give the individual his medication because he owed Mishoe money. Instead, Mishoe gave the individual three small blue pills for $30.00. The individual took one of the pills and thereafter had to be transported to the Loris Emergency Department for treatment. The Loris Police Department retrieved one of the three pills the individual had purchased from Mishoe, and an analysis by the Horry County Police Department Drug Laboratory confirmed the pill contained Fentanyl.
Chief United States District Judge R. Bryan Harwell sentenced Mishoe to 138 months in federal prison, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad, DEU, South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), Loris Police Department, and Horry County Police Department.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), 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.
Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Hummel of the Florence office prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – Reginald Dontae Williamson, Jr., 26, has been sentenced to 77 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of firearms. D. Michael Dunavant, U.S. Attorney announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, on August 20, 2019, investigators with the Jackson Police Department Gang Unit were assisting the U.S. Marshals Service while serving an arrest warrant at the defendant’s residence in Jackson. As agents with the USMS were inside the residence securing Williamson, JPD officers saw two partially smoked marijuana cigarettes in an ashtray in the living room. Investigators obtained a search warrant for the home, which revealed a black 12-gauge shotgun and a Mac-10 pistol in a bedroom closet. The shotgun had been stolen in 2017 during an automobile burglary in Jackson. Both guns were loaded.
As a result of his prior felony convictions, including aggravated burglary, theft of property, aggravated riot and vandalism, Williamson is prohibited by federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition.
On July 21, 2020, Williamson pled guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of the 12-gauge shotgun and the Mac-10 pistol.
On November 6, 2020, U.S. Chief District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Williamson to 77 months in federal prison followed by three years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Gun crime remains a pervasive problem in too many communities across West Tennessee, including Jackson. Congress enacted the statutory prohibitions of federal firearms laws to keep guns out of the hands of presumptively risky people, and the government has a strong interest in preventing people who already have disrespected the law, including felons, from possessing guns. This sentence removes two dangerous threats from the streets: a risky recidivist felon, and stolen firearms."
The Jackson Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Morrow prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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Co-Owner of Puerto Rican Online Aquarium Business Pleads Guilty to Two Lacey Act Felonies and Export Smuggling for Illicit Trafficking of Protected Reef CreaturesRead the Press Release
A resident of San Sebastian, Puerto Rico, pleaded guilty today to export smuggling and two felony violations of the Lacey Act for collecting, purchasing, falsely labeling, and shipping protected marine invertebrate species as part of an effort to subvert Puerto Rican law designed to protect corals and other reef species, the Department of Justice announced.
During 2014 through 2016, Luis Joel Vargas Martell (Vargas) was the co-owner of a home-based saltwater aquarium business, Carebbean Reefers (spelling error intentional) that also operated online through the EBay store “Redragon1975”. A large part of the business was devoted to the sale of native Puerto Rican marine species that are popular in the saltwater aquarium trade.
Vargas sent illegally collected live specimens to customers in the mainland United States and foreign countries by commercial courier services. One of the most popular items that Vargas and his business sent off-island was an organism from the genus Ricordea. These animals are known as “rics,” “polyps,” or “mushrooms” in the aquarium industry. Members of the genus form part of the reef structure and spend their adult lives fastened in place to the reef. These animals are colorful in natural light, but what makes them particularly interesting to aquarium owners is that they “glow” under the UV lights that are typically used in high-end saltwater aquariums.
It is illegal to harvest Ricordea, zoanthids, and anemones in Puerto Rico if the specimens are going to be sent off-island or otherwise sold commercially, nor is there a permit available to do so. Vargas personally collected much of the Ricordea and other reef creatures that he sold off-island. On multiple occasions, he would accompany his business partner, Raymond Torres, and they would snorkel from the shoreline in search of Ricordea. Because Ricordea are attached to the reef substrate, the pair would utilize a chisel to break off the animals, and in doing so, take chunks of the reef with them.
In order to cover up the nature of his shipments and to avoid detection from governmental inspection authorities, the scheme included falsely labelling many of the live shipments as inanimate objects. From January 2014 to March 2016, Vargas sent or caused to be sent at least 40 shipments of marine species that were illegally harvested in the waters of Puerto Rico. While there is some variation in the price of Ricordea depending on coloration, size, and other factors, the aggregate retail value of illegal Ricordea shipped by Vargas was worth at least $90,000.
Vargas will be sentence at a future date designated by the court. Torres pleaded guilty to similar charges on June 9, 2020. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 8, 2020.
This case was investigated as part of Operation Rock Bottom and Operation Borinquen Chisel by Special Agents of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration with support from the USFWS Inspectors. The case is being prosecuted by Christopher L. Hale of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Carmen Marquez of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Ricordea polyps illegally harvested by the defendant for use in the aquarium trade. Notice that the polyps are still attached to reef substrate. Ricordea polyps illegally harvested by the defendant. Photo shows other specimens in one of the business’ saltwater tanks. Ricordea polyps illegally harvested by the defendant for use in the aquarium trade. Notice that the polyps are still attached to reef substrate.Carroll Man to Federal Prison for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine while also illegally possessing a firearm was sentenced November 3, 2020, to 10 years in federal prison.
John Sanchez, 40, from Carroll, Iowa, received the prison term after a June 19, 2020, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearm by a prohibited person.
At the plea hearing, evidence showed that Sanchez was involved in a conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine from May 2019 through August 2019 in the Carroll, Iowa area. On two occasions in July 2019, Sanchez distributed over 25 grams of pure methamphetamine to another individual. Further, in August 2019, law enforcement seized over 50 grams of pure methamphetamine from Sanchez. Sanchez later admitted he illegally owned a 9mm pistol. Sanchez was not legally permitted to own a gun for three reasons: he had been convicted of a felony; he was a user of illegal drugs at the time he possessed the gun; and he was previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime domestic violence.
Sanchez was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Sanchez was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Sanchez is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). 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.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Carroll Police Department, United States Postal Inspection Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Iowa Division of Criminalistics Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-3005. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Campaign Consultant Ravneet Singh Re-Sentenced for Conspiring with Mexican Billionaire to Buy the San Diego MayorRead the Press Release
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark W. Pletcher (619) 546-9714
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – November 9, 2020
SAN DIEGO – Self-christened campaign guru Ravneet (“Ravi”) Singh was re-sentenced in federal court today to one year in prison for conspiring with Mexican billionaire Susumo Azano to make almost $600,000 in illegal political contributions to candidates Bonnie Dumanis and Bob Filner in the 2012 San Diego mayoral campaign in an effort to buy “a friend in the Mayor’s office.”
U.S. District Judge Michael M. Anello also ordered Singh to pay a $10,000 fine. Singh’s re-sentencing brings to a successful end this long-running investigation into corruption in local San Diego politics.
“Today’s sentence once again stands testament to the resolve of the FBI, the IRS, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to safeguard San Diego politics against those who attempt to illegally undermine the fundamental principles of American democracy,” said Executive U.S. Attorney Linda Frakes. “Today, more than ever, the integrity of our election system matters and attempts to illegally manipulate it will be punished.”
“Public corruption and campaign finance fraud undermines the strength and confidence in our system of government which is why these cases have always been a top criminal priority for the FBI,” said Special Agent in Charge Suzanne Turner. “The American people can count on the FBI to continue to expose those, like Azano and Singh, who attempt to illegally influence American political processes and bring them to justice.”
In September 2016, after six weeks of trial and five days of deliberations, a federal jury in San Diego returned guilty verdicts against Azano and Singh as well as Azano’s son, Edward Susumo Azano Hester.
According to evidence presented at trial, Azano, Singh, and others conspired to inject hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash and in-kind consulting services to the Dumanis and Filner campaigns, despite the fact that Azano’s foreign national status made such contributions illegal. To conceal his connection to these contributions, Azano arranged with Singh, his son Edward Hester, and others to funnel this illegal foreign money through corporate and third person “straw donor” contributions.
In return for his money, Azano sought to buy political influence and support for his vision: “Miami West” – a San Diego waterfront development project with a yacht marina, a branded five-star hotel and luxury bayside condominiums, a development project that promised Azano hundreds of millions in profit. Azano also demanded access, like the ability to summon influential political figures to his home on a moment’s notice or to obtain letters of reference to secure his son’s admission to the University of San Diego.
According to testimony at trial, Azano’s illegal money harnessed by Singh in an effective Internet fusillade made the difference in electing Bob Filner as Mayor. Within weeks after the election, with the Mayor squarely in his pocket, Azano met in London with renowned, Middle East-based master developers to refine his plans for “Miami West.” A month after the election, Azano invited the developers to fly halfway around the globe to meet with him and Mayor Filner about the Miami West project, and just four days after Filner’s inauguration, that meeting occurred, catered by Nobu, at Azano’s Coronado Cays mansion.
Filner resigned six months later amid allegations of sexual misconduct.
Azano and Singh were initially sentenced in 2017 to incarceration periods of 36 months and 15 months. After multiple lengthy appeals to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and a petition for review at the Supreme Court, which invalidated their convictions on one of the 36 counts charged in the indictment, Judge Anello re-sentenced Azano in 2019 to the same sentence of 36-months in prison. Today, Judge Anello sentenced Singh to a 12-month sentence. Singh was ordered to report to prison on January 11, 2021.
In addition to Azano, Singh, and Hester, local car dealer Marc Chase, his company South Beach Acquisitions, consultant Marco Polo Cortes, and former police detective Ernesto Encinas were also convicted of various campaign fraud-related offenses as part of this long-running investigation.
Executive U.S. Attorney Linda Frakes specially commended all the law enforcement agents and agencies who rigorously pursued this matter since its inception through its conclusion.
DEFENDANT Case Number: 14CR0388-MMA
Ravneet Singh Age: 48 Coral Springs, FLA
SUMMARY OF CONVICTIONS
Count 1: Conspiracy to Commit Offenses Against the United States – Title 18, U.S.C., Sec. 371.
Maximum Penalties: Up to five years in prison and $250,000 fine
Count 3: Donation and Contribution by a Foreign National Aggregating $25,000 or more – Title 2, U.S.C., Secs. 437g (d) (1) (A) (i) and 441e (A) (1).
Maximum Penalties: Up to five years in prison and $250,000 fine
Counts 32: Falsification of Records – Title 18, U.S.C., Sec. 1519.
Maximum Penalties: Up to 20 years in prison per count and $250,000 fine per count.
AGENCIES
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation
San Diego Police Department
California EDD Fraudster Sentenced for Disability Benefits Fraud and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Angela Stubblefield, 49, of Tacoma, Washington, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller to two years and six months in prison and ordered to pay $219,871 in restitution for a disability benefits fraud and identity theft scheme, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, between June 14, 2013, and May 1, 2017, Stubblefield and co‑defendant Katherine Decker participated in a scheme to defraud the State of California by filing fraudulent claims for disability insurance benefits with the California Employment Development Department (EDD). In furtherance of the scheme, Decker and Stubblefield used Decker’s position as an employee with the EDD to file fraudulent claims for disability benefits and to fraudulently extend existing disability claims, using the names and identities of real persons with and without their knowledge. In total, the conspiracy resulted in 15 fraudulent disability claims, resulting in a loss to the EDD of approximately $373,566.
“EDD employees rigorously work to protect the confidentiality of our claimant’s information and the integrity of the Disability Insurance program for Californians in need,” said EDD Director Sharon Hilliard. “We are grateful for the partnership of our federal and state partners in prosecuting any violator of that policy to the fullest extent of the law.”
This case was the product of an investigation by EDD’s Investigation Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shea J. Kenny and Amy S. Hitchcock prosecuted the case.
Stubblefield was ordered to report to begin service of her sentence by Feb. 1, 2021. On Sept. 14, Stubblefield’s co-defendant Katherine Decker was sentenced by Judge Mueller to three years and seven months in prison for the disability benefits fraud and identity theft scheme.
Calera Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
A Calera man pleaded guilty this morning to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. The defendant supplied the gun allegedly used in the murder of Tulsa Police Sergeant Craig Johnson.
Jakob Gerald Garland, 28, pleaded guilty this morning in front of U.S. District Judge Claire V. Eagan. Garland’s sentencing is set for Feb. 9, 2021.
“Experience tells me that bad things happen when a gun makes it into the hands of felons and drug dealers. Today, Jakob Garland pleaded guilty to providing a gun to a felon in exchange for heroin. As a result of this exchange, Tulsa Police Sergeant Craig Johnson died in the line of duty when that same gun was allegedly used by that felon to shoot him,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “Our 2150 Initiative, named in honor of Sgt. Johnson, focuses on protecting our community from those who illegally possess guns or illegally provide them to others. From felons to domestic abusers to drug abusers, if they possess firearms then they will be brought to justice.”
In his plea agreement, Garland admitted that on June 19, 2020, he gave an individual a Glock Model 23, .40 caliber semiautomatic handgun with serial number WKG380 in exchange for heroin. He admitted to driving to Tulsa and meeting the individual to give him the gun at his apartment located within the Northern District of Oklahoma. Prior to June 19, 2020 Garland admitted he had been convicted of several offenses that carried a penalty in excess of one year and was aware he was a convicted felon.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Snow is prosecuting the case.
The 2150 Initiative is a collaborative effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Oklahoma, Tulsa Police Department, ATF, and all other local, state, tribal and federal law enforcement partners to combat violent crime by focusing efforts on prohibited persons in possession of firearms as well as those responsible as the “source” of the firearms to prohibited persons.
Burke County men indicted for operation of illegal pill factoryRead the Press Release
AUGUSTA, GA: Two Burke County men have been indicted on federal drug trafficking charges for operating an illegal pill factory.
Cedrick Gabriel Brown, a/k/a “Pop,” 47, and Telly Savalas Carswell, 46, both of Midville, Ga., are charged with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and To Distribute More than 500 Grams of Methamphetamine and a Quantity of Heroin; Possession of More than 500 Grams of Methamphetamine and a Quantity of Heroin with Intent to Distribute; and Maintaining or Using a Drug Involved Premises, said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. The charges carry a possible penalty upon conviction of up to life in prison and substantial financial penalties, followed by up to five years of supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
“Deadly, addictive and illegal drugs – especially opioids and methamphetamine – are ripping asunder small towns and rural communities throughout our country,” said U.S. Attorney Christine. “With our law enforcement partners, we are determined to eradicate these poisons from our streets.”
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration began an investigation in January 2020, and with the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, DEA agents conducted a search of the home on May 7, 2020, and found a pill press, along with methamphetamine, heroin and other drugs; nearly $9,000 in cash; and paraphernalia related to drug trafficking.
“Criminals rely on pill presses to create dangerous counterfeit medications which contain toxic substances such as methamphetamine, heroin and other dangerous and potentially deadly drugs,” said the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division Robert J. Murphy. “DEA and its law enforcement partners are committed to keeping our neighborhoods safe from dangerous drugs.”
Criminal indictments contain only charges; defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The case is being investigated by the DEA and the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Josephson.
Buffalo Man Going to Prison for Lying to Grand Jury About A Murder InvestigationRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Demetrius Lowry, a/k/a Little D, 25, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of obstructing an official proceeding, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul C. Parisi and Seth T. Molisani, who handled the case, stated that Jaquan Sullivan was shot and killed on December 5, 2015, in the vicinity of Parkdale Avenue in Buffalo. On December 8, 2015, Lowry was interviewed by Buffalo Police Homicide detectives and provided two written statements detailing the shooting, including the identity of the person who shot Sullivan.
On December 17, 2015, Lowry sent a text message to the Buffalo Police Confidential Tip Line stating that this prior information was “totally wrong” and that he did not know who was involved in the shooting. On February 18, 2016, detectives interviewed the defendant about the tip-line message, and Lowry signed a written statement indicating that the tip-line message was not true.
On July 12, 2018, law enforcement officers assigned to the FBI interviewed the defendant once again about the shooting death of Jaquan Sullivan. Lowry gave information about the identity of the shooter which was different from that which he provided on December 8, 2015.
On July 31, 2018, while under oath and testifying in a proceeding before a Federal Grand Jury, the defendant denied writing and signing both his December 8, 2015, and February 18, 2016, statements, claiming, inter alia, that he was never interviewed by a detective on February 18. Lowry testified that he did speak with the FBI in July of 2018, but he stated he was not asked about the murder of Jaquan Sullivan.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Timothy Howard.
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Boulder Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Nearly $32 Million Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
DENVER – United States Attorney Jason R. Dunn announced that Michael Scott Leslie, age 57, of Boulder, Colorado, was sentenced to serve 5 years (60 months) in federal prison for bank fraud and aggravated identity theft, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Leslie was ordered to report to a Bureau of Prisons facility on January 4, 2021. The Denver office of the FBI, and the Offices of the Inspector General for both the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) joined in announcement.
According to the stipulated facts contained in Leslie’s plea agreement, Leslie owned, operated, or otherwise had an interest in several business entities, some of which were operated out of Colorado. These entities were involved in or affiliated with financing or originating residential mortgage loans. Through these business entities, Leslie sold residential mortgage loans to investors, including an FDIC-insured bank in Texas (“the victim bank”).
Between October 2015 and October 2017, Leslie devised and executed a scheme to defraud the victim bank by selling it 144 fraudulent residential mortgage loans valued at $31,908,806.88. These loans were purportedly originated by one of Leslie’s companies, Montage Mortgage, and “closed” by Snowberry, which earned fees for the closing. The loans were then presented and sold to the victim bank until Montage identified a final investor. For these 144 fraudulent loans, that final investor was Mortgage Capital Management (MCM).
Leslie never disclosed to the victim bank that he operated MCM and Snowberry, or the fact that sales to investor MCM, even if they had been real, were not arms-length transactions.
The 144 residential mortgage loans sold to the victim bank were not, in fact, real loans. The borrowers listed on these 144 fraudulent loans were real individuals, but they had no idea that their identities had been used as part of the sale of the fraudulent loans. The defendant had access to their personal identifying information in one of two primary ways: (1) the borrowers had used Montage for legitimate residential real estate transactions which were properly executed and closed, or (2) the borrowers had been solicited by Montage about refinancing their existing loans. In the case of refinance transactions, Montage secured permission from the borrowers to request credit scores and history from the major credit agencies. After receipt of those credit scores, Montage often told these would-be refinance borrowers that they did not qualify for a refinance. Leslie then recycled the borrowers’ information, obtained through prior legitimate transactions or attempted refinances, to create and sell nearly $32 million of fraudulent loan packages.
To execute this scheme, Leslie forged signatures on closing documents and fabricated and altered credit reports as well as title documents, often by using the names of legitimate companies. The fraudulent real estate transactions were never filed with the respective counties in which the properties were located, there were no closings, and no liens were ever recorded. Through numerous bank accounts for the various business entities and his personal accounts, the defendant used money in a Ponzi-like fashion from prior fraudulent loans sold to the victim bank to fund future fraudulent loans. This complex flow of money continued until the defendant’s fraud was detected. When the fraud was discovered, the victim bank still had 12 fraudulent loans, valued at $3,887,505.93, on its books that it could not, given that the loans did not exist, sell to any other legitimate third-party investor.
“Five years in federal prison is an appropriate sentence for a fraudster that stole personal identities and used them to steal millions of dollars from a legitimate business,” said U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn. “Thanks to the hard work of the investigating agencies and the prosecution team in my office, not only will Mr. Leslie have several years in prison to contemplate his actions, but other such criminals are on notice that we take economic crime seriously and will prosecute them to the full extent of the law.”
“This sentencing of Michael Scott Leslie sends a clear message the FBI and our partners will relentlessly pursue those who defraud financial institutions for personal gain,” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Michael Schneider. “FBI Denver extends its appreciation to OIG-HUD, FDIC, and the U.S. Attorney's Office- District of Colorado for their invaluable assistance in this investigation and prosecution.”
“HUD-OIG is committed to pursuing those who would abuse HUD programs,” said Scott Tanchak, Special Agent in Charge with the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. “HUD-OIG will aggressively pursue mortgage fraud, especially when facilitated by persons in the mortgage industry. In partnership with other law enforcement and federal agencies, we are deeply committed to ensuring that corrupt individuals do not use HUD programs to enrich themselves.”
“The FDIC OIG, along with its law enforcement partners, is dedicated to pursuing those who commit schemes to defraud the nation’s federally insured financial institutions,” stated FDIC OIG Special Agent in Charge Younger.
Chief U.S. District Court Judge Philip A. Brimmer pronounced the sentence on November 6, 2020. Leslie pleaded guilty on July 31, 2020, and was first charged by information on June 5, 2020. This case was investigated by the Denver office of the FBI, and the Offices of the Inspector General for both the Housing and Urban Development and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The defendant was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Hetal J. Doshi and Jeremy Sibert.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado. Related court documents can be found on PACER by searching for Case Number 20-cr-171.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Boston Man Sentenced for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Khyeme Johnson, 33, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge George A. O’Toole Jr, to five years in prison and two years of supervised release. In August 2020, Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Johnson was indicted in April 2019.
On Aug. 24, 2018, Johnson was found in possession of an Arcadia Machine & Tool .380 semiautomatic pistol with two rounds of ammunition. Johnson is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to multiple prior felony convictions.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office and the Boston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Looney of Lelling’s Criminal Division 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. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Billings man who sexually assaulted a minor through coercion sentenced to 10 years in prisonRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Billings man who admitted sexually assaulting a minor girl after he lied about his age was sentenced today to 10 years in prison and to 15 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
James Robert Patterson, 22, pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement on July 7.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided and ordered Patterson detained.
The prosecution said in court documents filed in the case that Patterson began communicating in April 2018 with the victim, a minor under the age of 16, using SnapChat and other social media applications. Patterson falsely led the victim to believe he was 16 and sent her sexually explicit pictures of himself. The on-line communications continued, and in June 2018 in Park City, the victim met Patterson in his car. Patterson sexually assaulted the victim and told her not to tell anyone.
Patterson later acknowledged he had sexual intercourse with the victim multiple times and told the victim not to tell anyone because he knew she was a minor and he was 20 years old at the time. Patterson admitted meeting the victim online and acknowledged having an interest in younger girls.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.
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Bergen County Man Sentenced to 84 Months in Prison for Role in Cross-Country Drug Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. –A Bergen County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 84 months in prison for his role in a scheme to transport more than 20 kilograms of cocaine from California to New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Irving Olivero-Pena, 48, a/k/a “Fausto Molina,” of Edgewater, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Kevin McNulty to Count One of an indictment charging him with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Judge McNulty imposed the sentence by videoconference today.
According to the documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Olivero-Pena and co-defendants Melvin Feliz, 54, of Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, and Robert Crawford, 45, of Long Island City, New York, each previously pleaded guilty to their roles in the scheme. They admitted that from January 2011 through March 2014, they conspired to purchase narcotics for distribution in New Jersey. On Oct. 22, 2012, they met a courier in Bergen County. They admitted that they gave the courier $549,950 in currency to transport to California via tractor trailer, where it would be used to purchase approximately 20 kilograms of cocaine. Afterwards, the courier would transport the cocaine to New Jersey for distribution. The currency was ultimately seized by law enforcement officers in California.
In addition to the prison term, Judge McNulty sentenced Olivero-Pena to 5 years of supervised release. Feliz was sentenced on Nov. 6, 2020, to 14 years in prison. Crawford was sentenced in July 2015 to 10 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Newark Division, under direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson; and special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Montanez in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Kogan of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Cybercrime Unit in Newark.
Defense counsel:
Olivero-Pena: David Touger Esq., New York
Feliz: Patrick Joyce Esq., New York
Crawford: Rubin Sinins Esq., Springfield, New JerseyBenton County Career Criminal Sentenced to 18 Years for Possession with Intent to Distribute over 50 Grams of Actual MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – Walter Griffin, 43, of Benton County, TN., has been sentenced to 220 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute over 50 grams of actual methamphetamine. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, on June 15, 2018, a Benton County Sheriff’s deputy observed Griffin traveling northbound on Highway 69A in Benton County. The deputy had prior knowledge that Griffin had an active warrant in Dickson County for failing to appear and an active Tennessee state parole violation warrant. As the deputy turned his vehicle around to conduct a traffic stop, he observed Griffin flee. After a short pursuit, Griffin made a hard turn in his vehicle and spun into a ditch and became stuck. Griffin was then taken into custody without incident.
A search of Griffin’s vehicle revealed 75 grams of crystal methamphetamine (ice), five oxycodone pills, eight hydrocodone pills, digital scales, and a pipe commonly used to smoke methamphetamine. The crystal methamphetamine was packaged for resale in 13 separate bags. It was later tested at a DEA laboratory and confirmed to have a purity level of 98%.
On May 3, 2019, Griffin pled guilty to possessing over 50 grams of actual methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Griffin has an extensive criminal history with prior felony convictions for selling methamphetamine and possessing methamphetamine with intent to sell. As a result of these prior felony drug convictions, Griffin is classified as a career drug offender under federal law for purposes of sentencing.
On October 30, 2020, U.S. District Court Chief Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Griffin to 220 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Evidence at sentencing also revealed that one month prior to his present offense, Griffin was detained on I-40 in Dickson County and found to be in possession of one-half pound of methamphetamine. Chief Judge Anderson noted that Griffin presented a significant risk to public safety due his recidivist nature and his inability to conform to the law and cease his criminal activity. There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Deadly, addictive, and illegal drugs – especially pure methamphetamine – are ripping asunder small towns and rural communities in West Tennessee. Recidivist drug dealers who profit from the pain, addiction, violence and death caused by these dangerous substances deserve proper punishment, and this sentence does just that."
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jerry Kitchen and Josh Morrow prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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Auto-Parts Manufacturing Company Sentenced in Worker Death CaseRead the Press Release
JOON LLC, d/b/a AJIN USA (Ajin), an auto-parts manufacturing company, was sentenced in federal court today in Montgomery, Alabama, after pleading guilty to a charge related to the death of a machinery operator.
Regina Elsea, who was 20 years old, worked at Ajin’s Cusseta, Alabama, facility. On June 18, 2016, she entered an enclosure — called a “cell” — containing several robots and other pieces of machinery. While she was inside the cell, troubleshooting a sensor fault, one of the machines started up and Elsea was struck by a robotic arm. She died of her injuries.
The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) requires employers to develop and utilize procedures to de-energize machinery during maintenance and servicing activities to prevent the kind of unplanned startup that killed Elsea. These procedures are often referred to as “lockout/tagout.” Ajin knew these procedures were required and had developed them, but Ajin also knew that — over a period of at least two years — supervisors did not effectively enforce them.
In the 15 minutes prior to Elsea’s fatal injury — in the presence of their supervisors — workers entered cells to troubleshoot machinery without following lockout/tagout no less than five times, and the supervisors did not take any action to stop or reprimand them. In two other instances, the supervisors themselves entered a cell without following lockout/tagout. At the time of Elsea’s fatal injury, several individuals were inside the cell, none of whom had followed lockout/tagout procedures to de-energize the machinery within the cell.
Ajin pleaded guilty to a willful violation of the OSH Act standard requiring the use of lockout/tagout procedures. U.S. Magistrate Judge Stephen Michael Doyle sentenced Ajin to pay a $500,000 fine — the statutory maximum — $1,000,000 in restitution to Elsea’s estate, and a three-year term of probation, during which Ajin must comply with a safety compliance plan, overseen by a third-party auditor. Among other things, the safety compliance plan requires a full review of Ajin’s lockout/tagout procedures, weekly inspections to ensure compliance, and creation of a mechanism for employees to report any safety concerns about the facility anonymously.
“Regina’s tragic death was preventable,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Jonathan D. Brightbill of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “OSH Act standards exist to protect American workers, but employers must actually implement them. When safety policies exist only on paper, tragedies like this occur. Ajin knew its supervisors and managers were turning a blind eye to the company’s safety procedures. Now, Ajin must take responsibility for its conduct. It will implement the safety compliance plan, and work to make its facility safer for its employees. Employers should be aware that they must follow workplace safety laws.”
“Every worker expects to return home safely at the end of his or her shift,” said U.S. Attorney Louis V. Franklin Sr. of the Middle District of Alabama. “The OSH Act was passed to ensure that workers could trust that their employers create and maintain a safe work environment. While most companies abide by the OSH Act, the unfortunate reality is that some of them do not. Ajin failed to comply with the OSH Act and, as a direct result of their failure, Regina Elsea did not return home safely at the end of her shift. Her death was preventable and Ajin’s failure to keep her out of harm’s way is inexcusable. I hope this prosecution sends a message to companies that people are their most valuable resource and complying with the OSH Act is a must in protecting its employees.”
“Employers are responsible for worker safety and health, and the failure in this situation was tragic,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Loren Sweatt. “Well-known safety procedures were repeatedly ignored that could have prevented this tragedy. While nothing can ever replace the loss of life, the court has sent a clear message that such disregard for worker safety is unacceptable.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Billingslea and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben M. Baxley of the Middle District of Alabama and Trial Attorney Erica H. Pencak of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section. The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Investigations.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Attorney Who Stole $1.4 Million from Charity Founded to Help Veterans and Their Families is SentencedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KEVIN E. CREED, 69, of Litchfield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 42 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for stealing approximately $1.4 million from a charity he organized.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Creed was an attorney who operated the Creed Law Firm in Bristol. The Fisher House Foundation is a national organization that builds comfort homes on the grounds of military and Veteran Affairs medical centers where military veterans and their families can stay for no cost while undergoing treatment at Veteran Affairs hospitals. In 2010, Creed established a charity called the Friends of Fisher House Connecticut, the purported purpose of which was to raise funds to support the building and maintenance of a Fisher House comfort home in West Haven.
Creed solicited donations for the Friends of Fisher House from corporations and individuals. He solicited funds at fairs, carnivals and supermarkets, and also held fundraising events, including the Bristol half-marathon and a 10-kilometer foot race, based on the representation that the money raised would support the construction and operation of the West Haven Fisher House. While Friends of Fisher House Connecticut made a $1 million donation in 2015 to assist with the financing of the construction of the Fisher House West Haven, Creed used his position to take approximately $1.4 million that had been raised for the organization and use it for both personal and law firm expenses.
Judge Hall ordered Creed to make full restitution.
On August 28, 2019, Creed pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
Creed, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on February 10, 2021.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. McGarry.
U.S. Attorney Durham thanked the Office of the Chief State’s Attorney for its assistance in this matter.
Armed St. Louis dealer pleads guilty to several drug chargesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS, MO – United States District Judge E. Richard Webber accepted a plea from Alonzo Williams. The 26-year-old St. Louis, Missouri resident pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute hydrocodone, one count of possession with intent to distribute oxycodone, and two counts of possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
According to a plea agreement, on September 18, 2019, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and St. Louis County Police worked with a confidential source (CS) to buy narcotics from Williams. The CS and Williams arranged to meet at the Dellwood Market and Willams’ home. The CS exchanged $100 with Williams for 15.25 grams of marijuana. Williams, who possessed an assault rifle, as well as another armed individual, were in the home during the deal.
On October 2, 2019, Williams sold the CS 2.95 grams of marijuana and .20 grams of oxycodone. Guns were again present inside the home.
On October 8, 2019, another individual directed the CS to meet at Williams’ home. The CS contacted Williams, who was waiting in a vehicle, and bought .20 grams of hydrocodone pills for $20.
Each of the charges to which Williams pleaded guilty carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Judge Webber has set sentencing for February 8, 2021.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and St. Louis County Police Department investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Paul D’Agrosa is handling the case.
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Arizona Man to Federal Prison for Involvement in Iowa Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced November 5, 2020, to 20 years in federal prison.
Michael Allison, 54, from Phoenix, Arizona, received the prison term after a May 18, 2020, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Allison was previously convicted of importation of marijuana in 1997 and 2005, both in the United States District Court, Southern District of California
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed Allison was involved in a conspiracy from 2009 through about April 2010 that distributed more than 500 grams of pure methamphetamine. Evidence further showed that Allison along with several others were involved in a scheme that transported methamphetamine from Mexico to California to Iowa for further distribution.
Allison was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Judge Linda Reade. Allison was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Allison is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and investigated by Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Clear Lake Police Department, North Central Iowa Drug Task Force, and the Iowa Laboratory of Criminalistics Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 11-3017. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Alien Sentenced for Illegal Reentry of a FelonRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, N.C. – Calixto Rodriguez-Betancourt, 26, of Mexico, illegally present in the United States and residing in Wilson County, North Carolina, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison.
On August 3, 2020, Rodriguez-Betancourt pled guilty to one count of illegal reentry subsequent to a felony conviction. Rodriguez-Betancourt was previously deported from the United States on November 27, 2013 at Laredo, Texas, after being convicted of a felony, larceny of a firearm. He was deported again on November 13, 2015 at Del Rio, Texas.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Malcolm J. Howard. ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Wilson Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Gabriel Diaz prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:19-cr-00181-H.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
4 Cincinnati individuals charged in human trafficking conspiracyRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – Four individuals facing human trafficking conspiracy and attempt charges made their initial appearances in U.S. District Court today. Each of the defendants is charged with a crime punishable by a mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life in prison.
According to the criminal complaint, Doyenn J. Clayborne, 34; ChaKirah Ala Shae Stephens, 22; Kionte Hashiem Anderson, 19; and Joleen Marie Smith, 44; were arrested on Oct. 29. as part of a FBI and Blue Ash Police Department operation targeting human trafficking.
Blue Ash police officers and FBI agents encountered the defendants as part of the operation at a Blue Ash hotel.
It is alleged the four defendants conspired to sell 16-year-old minor females for sex.
In addition to audio recordings of the defendants discussing logistics for providing underage females for sex, law enforcement officials discovered condoms (both used an unused), sexual devices, bottles of lubricant and a firearm in the defendants’ hotel room.
Officers and agents also encountered a 16-year-old female victim who had allegedly been brought to the hotel to perform sex acts for money, a portion of which would be given to the defendants.
Conspiring to sex traffic a minor is punishable by up to life in prison and attempting to sex traffic a minor is punishable by 10 years up to life in prison. Congress sets the minimum and maximum statutory sentence.
David M. DeVillers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Chris Hoffman, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; and Blue Ash Police Chief Scott Noel announced the charges. Assistant United States Attorney Kyle J. Healey is representing the United States in this case.
A criminal complaint merely contains allegations, and defendants presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Friday 6 November 2020
Two Florida men charged with running “Grandparent scam” in Northern OhioRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Toledo has returned a nine-count indictment charging John Tyler Pla, 25, and Johnny Lee Palmer, 25, both of Tampa, Florida, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud.
“Protecting our district’s elderly and vulnerable populations from scammers and fraudsters is an important part of the work we do every day at the Justice Department,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “Manipulating and exploiting our district’s elderly in any way, for any reason, will be met with swift prosecution.”
"These scammers demonstrate the ever-increasing need to watch over and protect our elderly population,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric B. Smith. “The FBI encourages everyone to educate their elderly family and friends on financial scams such as this. These two fraudsters played on the heart-strings of grandparents. Discussions prior to receiving a possible phone call from scammers can prevent your loved one from being a victim."
According to the indictment, from July 20, 2020, to August 28, 2020, the defendants are accused of conspiring together to orchestrate a “Grandparent scam” on elderly victims in Brecksville, Parma, Gates Mills, Lorain, Mansfield, Fairview Park, Westlake and Mentor. To conduct their alleged scheme, the defendants are accused of calling elderly victims in these areas claiming to be a relative, such as a grandson, granddaughter, or an attorney for the relative, and informing the victim that he or she had been arrested and needed money for bail.
The indictment states that the conspirators would then arrange for a purported courier to pick up the money in person. The defendants would then rent a U-Haul vehicle and travel to the victims’ residence to collect the money in person. In total, the victims suffered a combined loss of $383,932.00.
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 Cleveland Division of the FBI and Westlake Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian McDonough.
Since President Trump signed the bipartisan Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act (EAPPA) into law, the Department of Justice has participated in hundreds of enforcement actions in criminal and civil cases that targeted or disproportionately affected seniors. In particular, in March 2020, the department announced the largest elder fraud enforcement action in American history, charging more than 400 defendants in a nationwide elder fraud sweep. The department has likewise conducted hundreds of trainings and outreach sessions across the country since the passage of the Act. For more information about the Elder Justice Initiative, please visit https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim, and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. eastern time. English, Spanish and other languages are available.
This case is part of the Justice Department’s 2020 national Money Mule initiative. The Money Mule initiative seeks to stop the financial exploitation of the nation’s elderly and vulnerable populations.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at https://www.justice.gov/history.
Tilton Man Convicted of Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that a federal jury found Stefan Gauthier, 34, of Tilton, guilty of two counts of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute after a three-day trial.
According to evidence presented during the trial, on November 1, 2018, Tilton police arrested Gauthier for driving after suspension of his license. During a search of his person, police located a baggie containing a small amount of methamphetamine and $1375 in cash. Police executed a search warrant for Gauthier’s vehicle. Inside the vehicle, they found a handgun and a backpack that contained more than 350 grams of crystal methamphetamine, $1,500 in cash, a digital scale, ledgers, and other drug paraphernalia.
On December 2, 2018, while a warrant was pending for Gauthier’s arrest, Franklin police responded to a report of a man unconscious at the wheel of a vehicle. After determining that the man was Gauthier, the police arrested him and transported him to a hospital. Police then obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and found four clear plastic baggies containing more than 100 grams of crystal methamphetamine. Police also found a scale, baggies, needles, and three mobile phones.
The jury also acquitted Gauthier of firearms charges related to the November 1, 2018, incident.
Gauthier is scheduled to be sentenced on March 3, 2021.
“Methamphetamine is an extremely dangerous drug that poses a serious threat to public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “I am grateful for the hard work of the Tilton and Franklin Police Departments and our other law enforcement partners. Their efforts have brought a dangerous drug trafficker to justice.”
This matter was investigated by the Tilton Police Department, the Franklin Police Department, the Alexandria Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John S. Davis and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.
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Three Men Who Illegally Scuttled Abandoned Vessels in Long Island Sound Plead GuiltyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JOHN MAGNESS, 71, of Southbury; PETER ALBRECHT, 70, of Norwalk; and CARLOS SANTOS, 60, of Westbrook, have each pleaded guilty to a federal charge related to the scuttling of several sailboats and motor boats between the Black Rock Harbor and the Pennfield Reef Lighthouse in Long Island Sound.
Magness pleaded guilty on November 2, and Albrecht and Santos each pleaded guilty today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Magness was the owner of Bluefish Cove Marina in Bridgeport. While preparing to sell the property in 2018, Magness and Albrecht, who worked at the marina, engaged Santos to sink several abandoned vessels in the Long Island Sound without a permit. Magness agreed to forgive Santos’ unpaid dockage fees in exchange for his help sinking the vessels. Investigators identified as least five vessels as having been scuttled at Magness’ request between October 2018 and April 2019.
The three defendants each pleaded guilty to one count of obstruction of navigable waters by sinking a vessel, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of one year and a fine of up to $100,000. They are released pending sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren C. Clark.
Superseding Indictment Charges “Boogaloo Bois” with Conspiracy, Material Support to Hamas, Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a four-count superseding indictment charging MICHAEL ROBERT SOLOMON, 30, and BENJAMIN RYAN TEETER, 22, with conspiring and attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (Hamas) and firearms violations. SOLOMON and TEETER, who were initially charged via federal criminal complaint on September 3, 2020, will be arraigned before a Magistrate Judge in U.S. District Court at a later date. SOLOMON and TEETER have been ordered to remain in detention pending further proceedings.
According to the superseding indictment and documents filed with the court, in late May of 2020, the FBI initiated an investigation into SOLOMON and TEETER, two members of the “Boogaloo Bois,” and a sub-group called the “Boojahideen.” The Boogaloo Bois are a loosely- connected group of individuals who espouse violent anti-government sentiments. The term “Boogaloo” itself references an impending second civil war in the United States and is associated with violent uprisings against the government.
According to the superseding indictment and documents filed with the court, during the civil unrest in the Twin Cities following the death of George Floyd, according to a witness, SOLOMON was openly carrying a firearm in a residential neighborhood in Minneapolis. SOLOMON and TEETER interacted with the witness over the course of several days. The witness told FBI agents that SOLOMON and TEETER possessed firearms and substantial quantities of ammunition and that SOLOMON, TEETER, and other members of the Boogaloo Bois and Boojahideen discussed committing acts of violence against police officers and other targets in furtherance of the Boojahideen’s stated goal of overthrowing the government and replacing its police forces.
According to the superseding indictment and documents filed with the court, in early June, the FBI received information about SOLOMON, TEETER, and other members of the Boogaloo Bois and the Boojahideen through a confidential human source (“CHS”), whom the defendants believed to be a member of Hamas. In audio-recorded conversations, SOLOMON and TEETER expressed that Hamas shares anti-U.S. government views that align with their own views. SOLOMON and TEETER also expressed their desire to employ themselves as “mercenaries” for Hamas as a means to generate cash for the Boogaloo Bois/Boojahideen movement, including funding for recruitment and purchasing land for a training compound.
According to the superseding indictment and documents filed with the court, SOLOMON and TEETER shared with the CHS, and another individual whom they believed to be a more senior member of Hamas (and who was actually an undercover employee of the FBI), their ideas about destroying government monuments, raiding the headquarters of a white supremacist organization in North Carolina, and targeting politicians and members of the media.
According to the superseding indictment and documents filed with the court, SOLOMON and TEETER also expressed their ability to manufacture unmarked parts for guns and create unregistered and untraceable weapons, including suppressors. On July 30, SOLOMON and TEETER delivered to the individual they believed to be a senior member of Hamas five suppressors and expressed their desire to manufacture additional suppressors and fully-automatic weapons for Hamas. SOLOMON and TEETER later negotiated with the individual a price of $1,800 for five additional suppressors. SOLOMON and TEETER also delivered to the individual a “drop in auto sear” (“DIAS”), a part designed and intended for use in converting a weapon to shoot automatically. SOLOMON and TEETER believed the suppressors and the DIAS would be used by Hamas overseas to attack Israeli and U.S soldiers. Under federal law, suppressors must be registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. On August 29, 2020. SOLOLMON and TEETER knowingly possessed a device which converts a semi-automatic rifle into an illegal machine gun.
In a separate, related case, IVAN HUNTER, 26, was indicted by a grand jury on November 4, 2020, on one count of riot. HUNTER, who was initially charged via federal criminal complaint on October 23, 2020, will be arraigned before a Magistrate Judge in U.S. District Court at a later date. HUNTER has been ordered to remain in detention pending further proceedings.
These cases are the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Winter, and Trial Attorneys George Kraehe and Phil Viti of the National Security Division's Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the cases.
These cases fall with the purview of the Attorney General’s Task Force to Combat Violent Anti-Government Extremism. Launched in June 2020, the Task Force is dedicated to supporting the investigation and prosecution of any person or group who commits violence in the name of an anarchist ideology.
The charges contained in the indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defendant Information:
MICHAEL ROBERT SOLOMON, 30
New Brighton, Minn.
Charges:
- Conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (Hamas), 1 count
- Attempt provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (Hamas), 1 count
- Possession of unregistered firearms – silencers, 1 count
- Unlawful possession of a machine gun, 1 count
BENJAMIN RYAN TEETER, 22
Hampstead, N.C.
Charges:
- Conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (Hamas), 1 count
- Attempt provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization (Hamas), 1 count
- Possession of unregistered firearms – silencers, 1 count
- Unlawful possession of a machine gun, 1 count
IVAN HARRISON HUNTER, 26
Boerne, Texas
Charges:
- Riot, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Stacey Pomrenke, Kurt Pomrenke Plead Guilty to Conspiracy to Defraud the United StatesRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – Stacey Pomrenke and her husband Kurt Pomrenke pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Abingdon to conspiring to defraud the United States while Stacey Pomrenke was on pre-trial release. Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar, David W. Archey, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division, and Kelly R. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge of Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, made the announcement today.
Stacey Pomrenke, 48, of Abingdon, Va., waived her right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today to a one-count Information charging her with conspiring to defraud the United States while on pre-trial release. Kurt Pomrenke, 67, of Abingdon, Va., waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty to a one-count Information charging him with conspiring to defraud the United States.
“Residential Drug Abuse Programs are impactful programs designed to aid inmates dealing with actual, documented addiction disorders. These programs are not a means to simply shorten the sentences of defendants looking to get out of jail early,” Acting United States Attorney Bubar said today. “I am thankful to the FBI and IRS-CI for bringing these defendants to justice and working to maintain the important mission of the RDAP programs in our federal penitentiaries.”
“The defendant's actions undermine the purpose of an important program intended for people who need help. We will investigate and refer for prosecution any abuses of these federal programs,” Special Agent in Charge Archey said today. “We are grateful for the partnership of the United States Attorney's Office (WDVA) and the Internal Revenue Service's Criminal Investigations Division on this investigation.”
“Pomrenke continued her pattern of fraudulent behavior. Rather than serving her time sentenced, she and her husband schemed to shorten her incarceration by defrauding programs meant for the betterment of inmates battling addictions,” said IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Kelly R. Jackson. “Further, they encouraged others to engage in the same scheme which deteriorates the effectiveness of these programs from those who truly need it.”
According to court documents, on October 27, 2015, Stacey Pomrenke was arrested based upon the return of an indictment alleging multiple violations of federal law resulting from the federal investigation of Bristol Virginia Utilities Authority. When interviewed by a probation officer for the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia, Stacey Pomrenke denied any history of substance abuse. Following her conviction for multiple federal offenses, Stacey Pomrenke was again interviewed by probation officers for the United States District Court. During this interview, Stacey Pomrenke again denied any history of substance abuse and stated she was a “social drinker.” Stacey Pomrenke remained on release until September 26, 2016.
On August 11, 2016, Stacey Pomrenke was sentenced to 34 months in federal prison and ordered to self-report to the Bureau of Prisons facility at Alderson, West Virginia. The Bureau of Prisons operates an intensive drug and alcohol abuse treatment program known as the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP). In order to gain entry to RDAP, a federal inmate must meet certain criteria, including having a diagnosable and verifiable drug or alcohol abuse disorder. By successfully completing RDAP, an inmate can qualify for early release from custody.
Beginning on or about August 19, 2016, Stacey and Kurt Pomrenke were solicited by and began corresponding with Tony Pham a.k.a. Anh Nguyen, the operator of RDAP Law Consultants LLC, a business that solicited prospective and current federal inmates through telephone calls and emails offering assistance in applying for, and qualifying for, RDAP. For a fee, RDAP Law Consultants coached and advised prospective and current inmates on how to gain admission to RDAP by lying to the Bureau of Prisons about the existence, duration, and extent of a qualifying substance abuse disorder.
On August 22, 2016, Stacey Pomrenke entered into a consulting agreement with RDAP Law Consultants, agreeing to pay $7,500. The agreement was revised by Kurt Pomrenke and signed by Stacey Pomrenke and Anh Nguyen. Shortly after entering into the agreement, Nguyen began coaching Stacey and Kurt Pomrenke regarding the steps they would need to take to defraud the Bureau of Prisons to secure Stacey Pomrenke’s admission to RDAP.
In one of the first discussions with Nguyen, Stacey and Kurt Pomrenke made it clear that Stacey Pomrenke only drank a glass or two of wine a week and did not have an alcohol abuse problem or addiction.
Based on the advice of Nguyen, on August 31, 2016, Stacey Pomrenke made an appointment with her physician and falsely stated that over the last three years she had been drinking more and going from one glass of wine up to three glasses of wine at night. As a result of the false statements, Stacey Pomrenke’s physician prescribed her Ativan to prevent physical complications from alcohol withdrawal when she reported to prison.
On September 18, 2016, Nguyen sent an email to Stacey Pomrenke with the subject line “Show Withdrawal Symptoms.” In the email, Nguyen detailed a series of withdrawal symptoms Stacey Pomrenke should show within the first 24 hours of reporting to prison.
Between August 31, 2016 and September 25, 2016, Nguyen continued to work with Stacey Pomrenke and Kurt Pomrenke through telephone calls and emails to develop a false, but plausible story of alcohol abuse and the need for treatment.
On September 26, 2016, Stacey and Kurt Pomrenke traveled to the Bureau of Prisons facility at Alderson, West Virginia. When Stacey Pomrenke reported to the facility, she was intoxicated and under the influence of alcohol. During her initial health screen, Stacey Pomrenke told officials she “had been drinking at least a bottle of wine daily since 2008.” At the time she made the statement, Stacey Pomrenke knew that statement to be false.
As a result of her false statements and fraudulent claims of alcohol abuse and addiction, Stacey Pomrenke was admitted to RDAP on November 2, 2016 and began the program on December 2, 2016.
As a result of Stacey Pomrenke successfully being admitted to the RDAP program, Kurt Pomrenke agreed to discuss Nguyen’s assistance with other “high profile potential clients” of RDAP Law Consultants, LLC.
Stacey Pomrenke completed RDAP on or about September 22, 2017. Because she completed RDAP, Stacey Pomrenke’s term of imprisonment was reduced by seven months and one day.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorneys Zachary T. Lee and Lena L. Busscher are prosecuting the case for the United States.
St. Thomas Man Arrested for Stealing over $300,000 from His FatherRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced today that Lenroy Ravalier, Jr. was arrested for bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, money laundering, and related charges.
According to the Indictment filed in the case, Ravalier forged checks in his father’s name totaling over $300,000, in order to obtain those funds for himself. Ravalier then moved much of the money through various bank accounts in order to conceal the unlawful activity.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nathan Brooks.
An indictment is merely a formal charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Sexually exploiting minor girl sends Big Arm man to prison for 20 yearsRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Big Arm man who admitted making child pornography videos and sending an image to an undercover agent was sentenced today to 20 years in prison and 10 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $43,307 restitution to the victim, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Billy Dean Smith, 56, pleaded guilty on July 23 to sexual exploitation of a child.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that in January, an undercover FBI agent was investigating a KIK chat group known to exchange child pornography. KIK is a mobile phone app that allows users to exchange instant messages over the internet. In messages exchanged with the undercover agent, Smith described sexually abusing a girl, who was under the age of 18. Smith sent a sexually explicit image of the victim to the undercover agent. Agents obtained a search warrant for Smith's cell phone, seized it and analyzed its contents. A forensic examiner located the sexually explicit image that Smith had sent the agent. The examiner also located other videos and images of the victim. The images were created in January and February using the cell phone. Smith admitted he had filmed the sexually explicit videos of the victim.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee Peterson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations.
This case was initiated under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched in 2006 to combat the proliferation of technology-facilitated crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Through a network of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies and advocacy organizations, Project Safe Childhood attempts to protect children by investigating and prosecuting offenders involved in child sexual exploitation. It is implemented through partnerships including the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The ICAC Task Force Program was created to assist state and local law enforcement agencies by enhancing their investigative response to technology facilitated crimes against children.
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San Fernando Valley Man Charged by Federal Grand Jury with Cyberstalking in Case that Targeted Women with Death ThreatsRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A federal grand jury today returned an indictment that charges a Chatsworth man with cyberstalking two sisters by sending them text messages that threatened them with rape and murder.
Alex Scott Roberts, 25, was named in a six-count indictment that outlines a harassment and threat campaign that spanned a three-week period this summer. The indictment charges Roberts with two counts of stalking and four counts of making threats by interstate communications, specifically text messages.
Roberts is currently in state custody serving a sentence resulting from a parole violation. A Los Angeles Superior Court judge ordered Roberts back into custody in September after the FBI executed a federal search warrant related to the cyberstalking case at his residence. Roberts is expect to finish the sentence in the parole violation matter later this month, at which time FBI agents expect to take him into federal custody.
The indictment filed today in United States District Court alleges that Roberts, starting in late July and continuing until August 18, used text messages and internet communications to place the two victims “in reasonable fear of death and serious bodily injury,” and that he intended to cause “substantial emotional distress.”
After being told by Victim 1 and her family that the woman did not want to communicate with Roberts, on July 31 he allegedly created a listing on Craigslist that offered a room for rent at Victim 1’s home and invited prospective renters to “Stop by anytime,” according to the indictment.
On August 2, Roberts allegedly sent anonymous text messages to a friend of Victim 1 that demanded Victim 1’s phone number, threatened to publish nude photographs of Victim 1, and threatened to send someone to rape Victim 1.
The indictment states that, between August 11 and August 18, Roberts sent numerous anonymous text messages to Victim 1 and Victim 2 that include a series of threats, such as, “[S]o I’m outside…I see you guys…payback is a bitch and she gets what she deserves hope you all survive there will be blood.”
Later messages included threats such as, “have either of u been raped I guess you will experience that soon,” and “I have a gun aimed right at both your mom and dad . . . If u don[’]t respond someone will die.”
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
If he was convicted in this case, Roberts would face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for each count in the indictment.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Restrepo of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section.
San Bruno Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Distribution and Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – James Calvert was sentenced today to 12 years in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release for distribution and receipt of child pornography, announced United States Attorney David L. Anderson and FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig D. Fair. The sentence was handed down by the Honorable Susan Illston, U.S. District Judge.
Calvert, 27, of San Bruno, California, pleaded guilty to the charges on August 14, 2020. According to the plea agreement, Calvert admitted that in May of 2019, he posted a video that depicted a prepubescent minor female performing oral sex on an adult male and a video of a prepubescent minor being raped by an adult male in the “Babyprn” group chat-room of Kik, an instant messaging application used on mobile telephones.
Calvert also admitted in the plea agreement that in December 2019, he encouraged a fifteen-year-old female victim to perform a sex act on camera and to send him a video of her performing that sex act to his Kik account. Calvert admitted that he knew the victim was a minor when he encouraged her to send him the video. The government pointed out in additional filed papers that Calvert engaged in the December 2019 conduct after he had been charged with the May 2019 offense and had been released under supervision.
Calvert was arraigned on August 13, 2020, on a Superseding Information charging him with one count of distribution of child pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2252(a)(2) and (b)(2), and one count of receipt of child pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2252(a)(2) and (b)(2).
In addition to the 12 year prison term, Judge Illston ordered Calvert to serve a lifetime term of supervised release, to begin after the prison term ends. The defendant, who has been in custody since February of 2020, is presently serving his sentence.
Ajay Krishnamurthy and Barbara J. Valliere are the Assistant U.S. Attorneys who prosecuted the case with the assistance of Margoth Turcios. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office in Oklahoma.
Roseburg Man Accused of Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams announced today that a Roseburg man has been charged with Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Child after he used a hidden camera to attempt to record lewd images of a minor girl.
A federal grand jury in Medford has returned a one-count indictment charging Robert Wayne Roady, 48, with Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Child in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 2251 (a) and (e).
Roady was originally charged in Douglas County Circuit Court on October 22, 2020 with nine counts of Invasion of Privacy in violation of Oregon law. Roady has remained in state custody since his arrest on those charges. This federal indictment is an adoption of the state case. Once Douglas County prosecutors dismiss the state matter, Roady will be transferred to federal custody for an appearance at a later date in Eugene, Oregon.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Adam E. Delph and Jeffrey S. Sweet, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.
An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Quapaw Man Charged with Sexual Abuse of a Minor and Possessing Parts of Protected EaglesRead the Press Release
A Quapaw man has been indicted for sexually abusing a minor and illegally possessing feathers, talons and heads from seven bald eagles and seven golden eagles, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores.
Carl Gene Ortner, 56, is charged with transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, sexual abuse of a child in Indian Country, abusive sexual contact in Indian Country, possession of parts of a bald eagle, and possession of parts of a golden eagle.
“The United States has charged Carl Ortner with crimes related to the sexual abuse of a child and the unlawful possession of bald and golden eagle feathers and parts. The underlying circumstances of this case involve the alleged use of Native American cultural heritage to exploit and groom the child victim,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “Protecting children is a top priority for my office, and I’m thankful for our law enforcement partners who have teamed up to investigate this case.”
At a detention hearing held Friday, the United States alleged that Ortner fraudulently claimed to be a Native American spiritual counselor and healer and would give the feathers of bald and golden eagles to the minor victim and the victim’s family in order to gain their trust. At Ortner’s residence, officers allegedly found various parts of bald and golden eagles as well as a whole eagle carcass. Native Americans consider eagles to be sacred and only use the parts to make regalia or for use in cultural and religious practices. Evidence was presented that the defendant allegedly used his position of influence to groom the victim and force her into sexual relations with him, using her cultural beliefs and vulnerability against her. Ortner is not an enrolled member of any federally recognized tribe.
“The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service vehemently condemns sexual violence of any nature,” said Edward Grace, Assistant Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement. “In this case, the defendant allegedly used eagles – our national symbol and a culturally sacred species – to prey upon a child who trusted him. These alleged acts go against everything our country stands for and will not be tolerated. We would like to thank the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their assistance with this case. Together, we can bring wildlife criminals and sexual predators to justice.”
“As alleged in this case, those who seek to prey on children will stop at nothing to lull their victims into a false sense of trust and security, but I’m grateful to the team of agents and analysts who stop at nothing to protect our children,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Melissa Godbold. “This case represents the teamwork that the public has come to expect from law enforcement. I’m grateful that, after investigating the theft of these natural resources, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reached out to the FBI when they discovered the abuse allegations.”
During today’s detention hearing, prosecutors alleged there may be additional victims. Anyone with information is asked to call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225—5324).
U.S. Magistrate Judge Frank H. McCarthy set the detention hearing to continue Nov. 12 at 2pm.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department, FBI, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Roberts and Shannon Cozzoni are prosecuting the case.
Pueblo Gang Member Sentenced to Serve 12 Years in Federal Prison for Being A Felon in Possession of A Firearm and Possession of A Firearm During A Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
DENVER – United States Attorney Jason R. Dunn today announced that Joseph Jordan Carrillo, age 28, of Pueblo, was sentenced to serve a total of 12 years (144 months) in federal prison followed by 3 years on supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. Carrillo, a member of the South Side Surenos street gang, appeared at the hearing remotely in custody. He was remanded at the hearing’s conclusion. The Denver Field Division of the ATF joined in today’s announcement.
According to the stipulated facts contained in his plea agreement, as well as other court documents and arguments made in court, Carrillo was a fugitive on the FBI Safe Streets Most Wanted list and had an active warrant for his arrest for a parole violation. On October 11, 2019, Pueblo Police Department officers located and approached Carrillo in his vehicle. Carrillo then attempted to flee on foot and was subsequently caught and taken into custody. Officers found in his possession $1916 in cash and a drug ledger. During a search of the vehicle, officers also found a black bag on the driver’s seat containing $1000 cash, approximately 31.6 grams of heroin, and a loaded revolver. Law enforcement then obtained a search warrant for Carrillo’s residence. Inside his bedroom, officers located seven additional firearms, approximately 73.4 grams of heroin, and an additional $14,563 in cash.
In total, Carrillo possessed a total of 102.58 grams of heroin, which he intended to distribute. Along with the heroin, Carrillo possessed a total of eight firearms and ammunition. At least four of those firearms were previously reported stolen. He was prohibited to possess the firearms and ammunition because of a prior felony conviction.
He was sentenced to serve 84 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and 60 months for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The sentences were ordered to run consecutive.
“Over the last few years we have made a concerted effort to crack down on criminal gang activity in Pueblo,” said U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn. “Removing this felon and his arsenal of guns and drugs from the community will no doubt have a lasting impact. Great work by the Pueblo Police Department, the ATF, and prosecutors in my office.”
“Joseph Carrillo violated Federal firearms laws and brought dangerous drugs into our community – neither of which will be tolerated.” said David Booth, ATF Denver Field Division Special Agent in Charge. “As always, ATF is proud to work with our law enforcement partners to remove violent offenders from our streets and protect our communities.”
Carrillo was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Minser and Kelly Churnet. The sentence was pronounced by U.S. District Court Judge R. Brooke Jackson. The case was investigated by the Denver Field Division of the ATF and the Pueblo Police Department.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado. Related court documents can be found on PACER. The defendant’s case number is 19-cr-505.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Portland Resident Indicted for Providing Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice announced that a federal grand jury in Portland returned a five count indictment against Portland resident Hawazen Sameer Mothafar, 31, charging two counts of conspiracy to provide material support to a designated terrorist organization and one count of providing and attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2339B(a)(1). In addition, the indictment charges Mothafar with one count of false statements in an immigration application in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1546(a) and one count of false statement to a government agency in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2).
Mothafar had his initial appearance in front of U.S. Magistrate Judge Jolie A. Russo yesterday. Due to the fact that Mothafar has physical disabilities and is confined to a wheelchair, the government did not seek detention. Rather, Mothafar was released on conditions including limitations on travel and the use of electronic devices.
According to the allegations contained within the indictment, between February 2015, and up to the time of arrest, Mothafar conspired with ISIS members to provide material support to ISIS. This support included a range of activities. Mothafar produced and distributed ISIS propaganda and recruiting materials that he created and edited in coordination with official ISIS media operatives located overseas. Mothafar produced, edited, and distributed a number of publications and articles including “Effective Stabbing Techniques,” which provided detailed guidance on how to best kill and maim a target in a knife attack, a tutorial on using explosive ignition devices entitled “How Does a Detonator Work,” and propaganda that encouraged readers to carry out attacks in their home countries if they could not travel overseas to fight. Mothafar also maintained contact with ISIS officials overseas and provided technical support to these individuals that included opening social media and email accounts for official use. During the time of this alleged activity, Mothafar also made false statements on immigration documents and to government officials denying any ties to terrorist organizations.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Portland Division and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ethan Knight and Geoffrey Barrow with the assistance of Counterrorism Trial Attorney Alexandra Hughes.
An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pennsylvania man sentenced for bank fraudRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Randall Joseph Smail, of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to two days of incarceration for bank fraud, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Smail, age 23, pled guilty to one count of “Bank Fraud” in July 2020. Smail defrauded Pendleton Community Bank of approximately $552,533. Smail created a fictitious account statement from Kraken Bitcoin Exchange, showing he had $640,000,000 in Bitcoin currency that he produced when applying for a loan from the bank, knowing he did not own any Bitcoin currency. He also produced other fictitious paperwork, showing $10,000,000 in another bank that he transferred from his cryptocurrency account, all of which he knew was false. He used these false documents to defraud the bank.
Smail was ordered to pay $773,093.90 in restitution to the victims.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danae Demasi-Lemon prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Operators of California Charity Scam Sentenced to Prison for Mail Fraud Conspiracy and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Geraldine Hill and Clayton Hill, a California couple who operated a charity that purported to provide goods to the needy, were sentenced to prison for conspiracy to commit mail fraud and tax evasion. Geraldine Hill was sentenced to 15 months in in prison, and Clayton Hill was sentenced to 9 months in prison, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Robert S. Brewer, Jr. for the Southern District of California.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Hills operated On Your Feet (OYF), also known as the Family Resource Center, a tax-exempt charitable organization whose stated mission was to provide assistance to low income families and individuals in need. From 2011 through 2016, the Hills fraudulently obtained more than $1.35 million in donated clothing and other items for OYF by falsely representing to the donors that the items would be given to needy recipients. In fact, the Hills caused OYF to make only about $13,000 in charitable donations, and then sold the remaining donated items, and used the proceeds to support themselves and their family members. Between January 2011 and February 2017, the Hills spent nearly $380,000 from their personal and charity bank accounts on personal expenses including some luxury retail purchases, vacations, entertainment, and vehicles. To conceal their conduct from the IRS, the Hills filed false charitable tax returns for OYF, and did not pay taxes or file personal tax returns for 2013 and 2014.
“The defendants defrauded the IRS and companies that donated goods in an effort to alleviate poverty and suffering among the least fortunate,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman. “The Tax Division is committed to investigating and prosecuting those individuals who seek to use the cover of a charity to illegally line their own pockets.”
“Geraldine and Clayton Hill lied to unsuspecting donors about the direction of charitable contributions and engaged in tax fraud to cover their trail,” said Jim Lee, Chief of IRS Criminal Investigation. “Unfortunately, the donors were well-meaning organizations interested in helping the needy and this fraud prevented real people in need from receiving assistance. IRS Criminal Investigation works tirelessly to ensure that criminals like the Hills are brought to justice. In cases like these, not only do the needy of our communities suffer, but also taxpayers and the U.S. government.”
On June 9, 2020, the Hills pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and tax evasion.
In addition to the terms of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Dana M. Sabraw ordered the Hills to serve three years of supervised release, and to pay $50,933 in restitution to the United States for their tax evasion. A hearing to address victim restitution for the mail fraud will take place at later date.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Brewer commended special agents of the IRS-Criminal Investigation Division and the FBI, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Valerie Preiss of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Kanter, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
New Interactive Platform for Victim Resource GuideRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Christina E. Nolan announced today improvements to her office’s Victim Resource Guide. Victims and their supporters can now access a directory of assistance-related resources at www.vtvictimresources.com. This guide provides a central listing of the valuable resources and services available to assist victims of crime in Vermont. Previously available in booklet form and posted on the U.S. Attorney’s Office website, this comprehensive guide has now transitioned to an interactive online format. This new format allows users to search and filter fields, providing victims faster access to a more comprehensive list of services.
“Our state is home to an amazing array of dedicated providers of victim services,” stated U.S. Attorney Nolan. “This resource guide will help ensure that victims can timely locate providers to support them in their recovery from the trauma of crime. My office is extremely grateful for the vital services offered by these community partners.”
The Victim Resource Guide represents much of what Vermont has to offer victims of crime seeking help and assistance. Please contact Aimee Stearns, Victim/Witness Coordinator - U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont, to add a service or resource, or update the information listed in the guide. Please contact her by email at [email protected].The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years
Navajo man pleads guilty to sexual abuse of a minor in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Wilson Davis, 25, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, pleaded guilty in federal court in Albuquerque on Nov. 2 to sexual abuse of a minor in Indian Country.
A grand jury indicted Davis on July 10, 2018. According to the indictment and other court records, on or about Oct. 22, 2016, Davis engaged in and attempted to engage in sexual activity with a child, who at the time of the offense was older than 12 but younger than 16. Davis committed the offense in McKinley County on the Navajo Nation.
Davis is currently in custody pending sentencing. He faces up to 15 years in prison.
The Gallup office of the FBI investigated this case with assistance from the Gallup Police Department and McKinley County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Marshall is prosecuting the case.
Navajo man pleads guilty to abusive sexual contact with a minorRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE,N.M. – Nathan Thomas, 44, of Pueblo Pintado, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, pleaded guilty in federal court in Albuquerque on Nov. 4 to abusive sexual contact with a minor in Indian Country.
A grand jury indicted Thomas on June 12, 2019. According to the indictment and other court records, Thomas committed the offense at his family home in San Juan County on the Navajo Nation between Aug. 1, 2007, and July 21, 2010. On more than one occasion over this period, Thomas knowingly engaged in and caused sexual contact with a child under the age of twelve.
Thomas will remain in custody pending sentencing. He faces up to 18 years in prison.
The Gallup office of the FBI investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison Jaros is prosecuting the case.
Nampa Man Sentenced to over 8 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
BOISE - Cameron Benjamin, 22, of Nampa, was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 97 months in federal prison for possession of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Benjamin to serve 15 years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Benjamin pleaded guilty to the charge on August 17, 2020.
According to court records, in December 2019, Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force began investigating five Cybertips from Twitter. According to the Cybertips, child pornography had been uploaded to five different Twitter accounts. Through its investigation, ICAC was able to determine that the accounts belonged to Benjamin. A federal magistrate judge issued a search warrant for the contents of the Twitter accounts. Within the accounts, ICAC located approximately 70 images and two videos of child pornography. ICAC also located messages where Benjamin discussed trading child pornography with other Twitter users. A federal magistrate judge also issued a search warrant for Benjamin’s residence in Nampa. ICAC executed the search warrant and seized Benjamin’s cellphone. A forensic examination of the cellphone revealed approximately 253 images of child pornography. Benjamin admitted to investigators that he had used his Twitter accounts to send and receive child pornography.
Judge Nye also ordered Benjamin to pay restitution in the amount of $6,000 to victims in the images he possessed and to pay a $5,100 special assessment. As a result of his conviction, Benjamin will be required to register as a sex offender.
This case was investigated by Idaho ICAC Task Force with assistance from United States Postal Inspection Service and Nampa Police Department, and was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
NDTX Round-Up: October 30 – November 5Read the Press Release
SENTENCING – DAVID RAMIREZ-ESPANA
On October 30, David Ramirez-Espana, 41, was sentenced to 9 years in federal prison for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. Ramirez-Espana was stopped for a traffic violation by Dallas Police Department. Officers found a black plastic bag containing approximately one kilogram of black tar heroin. Ramirez-Espana gave consent for officers to search his residence in Dallas where law enforcement recovered 26.30 kilograms of methamphetamine and $43,013 in drug proceeds. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Phelesa Guy is prosecuted this case.
SENTENCING – RAMON REYES, JR.
On November 2, Ramon Reyes, Jr., 47, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for transporting and shipping child pornography. The Grand Prairie Police Department received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s cybertipline that Reyes uploaded eight videos containing child pornography using a social media application. Law enforcement executed a search warrant for Reye’s home. When questioned about the child pornography, Mr. Reyes admitted that some of the images and videos that he transported included sadistic images depicting infants and toddlers. Reyes stipulated that he possessed over 12 images and 40 videos containing child pornography. The case was investigated by the Grand Prairie Police Department and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Camille Sparks prosecuted this case.
SENTENCING – ANDREW RAY LUGO
On November 2, Andrew Ray Lugo, 30, was sentenced to 85 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. In June 2018, Lugo paid a coconspirator $2,500 to settle a pervious drug debt. One month later, Lugo delivered $4,000 in drug proceeds to a conspirator. A few days later, a coconspirator coordinated a half-a-kilogram delivery of heroin to Lugo. Agents conducted a search of Lugo’s residence where they seized heroin, a firearm, and $1,788 in drug proceeds. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Kull is prosecuted this case.
Myrtle Beach Woman Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing 39 Balloons of Heroin with the Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
Florence, South Carolina --- United States Attorney Peter M. McCoy, Jr., announced today that Mary Denham, 61, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute Heroin.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on January 15 to January 16, 2019, the Myrtle Beach Police Department executed a search warrant at Denham’s residence in Myrtle Beach. During the search, officers found 39 individual balloons of Heroin.
Chief United States District Judge R. Bryan Harwell sentenced Denham to 60 months in federal prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), DEA Tactical Diversion Squad, South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), and Myrtle Beach Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren Hummel and Justin Holloway prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Member of Boston Latin Kings Chapter Pleads Guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A former member of the Boston-based Devon Street Kings Chapter of the Massachusetts Almighty Latin King and Queen Nation (“Latin Kings”) pleaded guilty yesterday to racketeering charges.
Dante Lara, a/k/a “King Nasty,” 29, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel scheduled sentencing for Feb. 11, 2021. Lara was arrested and charged in December 2019, at which time he was a member of the Devon Street Kings, a Boston-based Chapter of the Latin Kings.
The Latin Kings are a violent criminal enterprise comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Latin Kings adhere to a national manifesto, employ an internal judiciary and use a sophisticated system of communication to maintain the hierarchy of the organization. As alleged in court documents, the gang uses drug distribution to generate revenue, and engages in violence against witnesses and rival gangs to further its influence and to protect its turf.
Named for its origin on Devon Street in Boston, the Devon Street Kings or D5K Chapter of the Latin Kings, included approximately a dozen members. The Devon Street Kings reported to the Massachusetts State Leadership of the Latin Kings, providing information, structure, funds and other resources to further the Latin Kings goals and directives in the state. During today’s plea hearing, Lara admitted to participating in the drug distribution activities of the gang and also to possessing a loaded firearm and cocaine that were located in his apartment during the execution of a warrant.
In December 2019, a federal grand jury returned an indictment alleging racketeering conspiracy, drug conspiracy and firearms charges against 62 leaders, members and associates of the Latin Kings. Lara is the 19th defendant to plead guilty in the case.
The RICO conspiracy charge provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Commissioner Carol Mici of the Massachusetts Department of Correction; and Boston Police Commissioner William Gross made the announcement. Valuable assistance was also provided by the FBI North Shore Gang Task Force and the Bristol County and Suffolk County District Attorney’s Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip A. Mallard, Mark Grady and Lauren Graber of Lelling’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The operation was conducted by a multi-agency task force through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a partnership between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply. More information on the OCDETF program is available here: https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf/about-ocdetf.
Man and Woman in Lorain charged with sexual exploitation of childrenRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Toledo has returned a one-count indictment charging Rosalina C. DRAGGA, 31, of Lorain with sexual exploitation of children. DRAGGA is accused of working with Charles NAKOFF Jr, 32, of Lorain, to produce images of child pornography.
On October 9, 2020, a superseding indictment was filed in federal court in the Northern District of Ohio charging NAKOFF with transportation of child pornography, receipt and distribution of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, possession of child pornography and sexual exploitation of children.
According to court records, in April of 2020, law enforcement investigators began an investigation into NAKOFF after Dropbox, Inc. notified law enforcement with the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force that approximately 215 alleged video files of child pornography were stored in an online account associated with NAKOFF. The investigation eventually established that NAKOFF, his wife and DRAGGA all lived at the same residence in Lorain at the time the images were transported.
On July 21, 2020, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the Lorain residence and on NAKOFF himself. These warrants were executed without incident, and six items were seized, including three cell phones and three computers. An onsite forensic preview of NAKOFF’s cell phone resulted in the discovery of alleged child exploitation images and videos involving various underage victims. NAKOFF was arrested and taken into federal custody.
During an analysis of one of NAKOFF’s electronic devices, a message string of particular interest was found to have occurred between NAKOFF and his wife, relating to DRAGGA. This led investigators to a series of videos and images on one of NAKOFF’s seized cell phones involving Minor Victim #1 from Lorain. These videos and images depicted an adult male and unidentified female allegedly engaged in sexually explicit conduct with the minor.
Investigators and DRAGGA identified NAKOFF as the male in the files, states the Complaint filed against DRAGGA. In addition, investigators were able to determine that DRAGGA was the unidentified female by using images of DRAGGA publically available online to match with the series of images involving the minor, namely distinct visible tattoos on both sets of images.
According to the Complaint, DRAGGA informed investigators that she cooperated with NAKOFF in the production of these images. DRAGGA was arrested on October 14, 2020.
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 both indictments was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol M. Skutnik.
Man Who Emailed Video of Teenager Being Raped Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who distributed videos online depicting the sexual abuse of children, including one in which a male teenager was lying face down and sexually assaulted, was sentenced November 5, 2020, to more than twenty years in federal prison.
Kelby Fowler, age 31, from Traer, Iowa, received the prison term after a pleading guilty to distribution and possession of child pornography.
At the guilty plea, Fowler admitted he distributed and possessed child pornography, including a depiction of a minor who had not yet attained 12 years of age. Fowler possessed multiple videos showing children being sexually assaulted or raped. In an interview with law enforcement, Fowler also admitted to previously sexually assaulting a young child for whom he babysat.
Fowler was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Fowler was sentenced to 252 months’ imprisonment and fined $200. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term and register as a sex offender. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
Fowler is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Liz Dupuich and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-126-CJW.
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Man Indicted for Embezzling $380K from Federal Law Enforcement UnionRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a Quantico man with wire fraud in connection with his scheme to embezzle over $380,000 from his former union, which represented federal law enforcement officers.
According to allegations in the indictment, Arthur Penn, 64, served from 1999 through 2015 as the Chairman of the Fraternal Order of Police Defense Protective Service Labor Committee Pentagon, a local union that represented officers of the Pentagon Force Protection Agency. During his tenure, Penn allegedly routinely embezzled funds from the Union for his personal benefit, and spent the stolen funds on gambling, to pay for a personal trip to the Dominican Republic, and for his day-to-day living expenses. Penn sought to conceal and prevent the detection of his embezzlement by failing to make regular reports to Union members, by violating his obligation to file regular financial reports with the Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards, and by siphoning off most of the embezzled funds through cash transactions, thereby avoiding the creation of financial records that would have revealed the fraud.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Mark Wheeler, District Director, Washington District Office, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards; and James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office Criminal Division, made the announcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Burke is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:20-cr-251.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Man Convicted of Defrauding the University of Illinois Sentenced to 42 MonthsRead the Press Release
URBANA, Ill. – U.S. District Judge Colin S. Bruce sentenced Eric Marcel Mboule, 35, of Tucker, Georgia to serve 42 months in federal prison for his role in defrauding the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana out of more than $265,000. Mboule previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Following his sentence, Mboule was ordered to serve three years of supervised release.
In 2016, Mboule along with Patrick Guentangue and others executed a fraudulent scheme to deceive University of Illinois officials into believing that a building contractor working at the U of I had changed banking information in advance of the contractor receiving the next scheduled payment. Based on that deception, the University of Illinois wired a contractual payment into an account owned by Guentangue, under an alias, and not into the contractor’s account. Mboule then sent messages to Guentangue directing him exactly how he should then disburse the fraudulently obtained funds to others involved in the fraud. For his role, in December of 2018, Guentangue was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release.
As part of his sentence, Judge Bruce ordered Mboule to pay restitution to the University of Illinois in the amount of $265,193.75.
The charges are the result of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Finlen in the prosecution.
MS-13 Gang Member Fugitive Extradited from El Salvador to Face Charges of Murdering a 15-Year-Old Boy on Long IslandRead the Press Release
Eduardo Portillo, also known as “Firuli” and “Tito” (Portillo), a member of the violent transnational criminal organization La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as the “MS-13,” and a fugitive from justice, was extradited from El Salvador to the United States early this morning. Portillo, who was arrested in Morazán, El Salvador on February 23, 2019, has been detained pending his extradition to the United States, which was formally authorized by the Supreme Court of Justice of El Salvador on October 6, 2020. Portillo was originally charged with the murder of 15-year-old Javier Castillo in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Central Islip, New York, on May 30, 2018. An INTERPOL Red Notice for his arrest was published on December 13, 2018 in connection with these charges. Portillo was arraigned this afternoon before United States Circuit Judge Joseph F. Bianco and ordered detained pending trial.
Seth D. DuCharme, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney, Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the arrest and extradition.
“Today’s extradition of defendant Portillo demonstrates the resolve of law enforcement to bring to justice all gang members who commits violent crimes in our district no matter where in the world they may run and try to hide,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney DuCharme. “I hope the extradition of the defendant and his prosecution in a U.S. court will bring some measure of closure to the family of the young victim.”
Acting United States Attorney DuCharme expressed his grateful appreciation to the investigators and analysts of El Salvador’s Policía Nacional Civil (PNC) Centro Antipandillas Transnacional (CAT) unit, who are assigned to the Transnational Anti-Gang (TAG) Unit, for their outstanding collaboration in locating and apprehending this fugitive, and to the Office of the Attorney General of the Republic of El Salvador for its crucial assistance during the extradition process. Additionally, Mr. DuCharme expressed sincere thanks to all the members of the FBI’s Long Island Gang Task Force and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), as well as to the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), and the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs (OIA), for their partnership in this case.
“Bringing Mr. Portillo back to the U.S. to face justice for the heinous murder of a 15-year-old is a big step toward healing a family and community terrorized by MS-13. We have made incredible inroads with members of that community, building relationships and trust which are vital to keeping the violence at bay. But we’re not done, and we have more work to do. We hope people see this action as a sign that the FBI Long Island Gang Task Force and our partners are not slowing down in our resolve to dismantle MS-13,” stated FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Sweeney.
Portillo is presently charged in an 89-count seventh superseding indictment, along with 22 other MS-13 members, with racketeering offenses, murder and narcotics trafficking. In particular, Portillo has been charged with participating in the murder of Castillo, who was believed to be a member of the 18th Street gang, one of MS-13’s principal rivals. On October 10, 2016, Portillo and other Brentwood-based members of the Sailors Locos Salvatruchas Westside (Sailors) clique of MS-13 convinced Castillo, who lived in Central Islip, to go with them to Freeport – approximately 30 miles away – to smoke marijuana. They lured Castillo to an isolated marsh area along the water in Cow Meadow Park, Freeport, where they attacked and killed him, taking turns hacking him with a machete. Afterwards, the MS-13 members dug a hole and buried Castillo’s body, which was not recovered until one year later, in October 2017.
The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Portillo faces up to life in prison.
This indictment is the latest in a series of federal prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York targeting members of the MS-13, a violent transnational criminal organization. The MS-13’s leadership is based in El Salvador, Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras, but the gang has thousands of members across the United States, comprised primarily of immigrants from Central America. With numerous branches, or “cliques,” the MS-13 is the largest and most violent street gang on Long Island. Since 2003, hundreds of MS-13 members, including dozens of clique leaders, have been convicted on federal felony charges in the Eastern District of New York. A majority of those MS-13 members have been convicted on federal racketeering charges for participating in murders, attempted murders and assaults. Since 2010, this Office has obtained indictments charging MS-13 members with carrying out more than 60 murders in the Eastern District of New York, and has convicted dozens of MS-13 leaders and members in connection with those murders. These prosecutions are the product of investigations led by the FBI’s Long Island Gang Task Force, comprising agents and officers of the FBI, the Nassau County Police Department (NCPD), the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), the Nassau County Sheriff’s Department, the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, the Suffolk County Probation Office, the New York State Police, the Hempstead Police Department, the Rockville Centre Police Department, and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Long Island Criminal Division. Assistant United States Attorneys John J. Durham, Paul G. Scotti, Justina L. Geraci and Megan E. Farrell are in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
EDUARDO PORTILLO (also known as “Firuli” and “Tito”)
Age: 23
San Francisco Gotera, Morazán, El Salvador; formerly of Central Islip and Brentwood, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 16-CR-403 (JFB)