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17 December 2020
Alien Indicted on Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Leonel Deleon-Cuellar of Mexico, age 23, with possession of a firearm by an illegal and unlawful alien.
If convicted, Deleon-Cuellar, found in Nash County, faces a maximum imprisonment term of not more than ten years, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement. ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and Homeland Security Investigations are investigating the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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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.
Albuquerque man charged with methamphetamine possessionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Michael Anthony Hernandez, 44, of Albuquerque, appeared in federal court for a detention hearing on Dec. 16 on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and maintaining a drug-involved premises. Hernandez will remain in custody pending trial.
According to a criminal complaint, on Dec. 1, agents executed search warrants on two residences occupied by Hernandez. As agents approached Hernandez at one of the residences, Hernandez allegedly retreated inside the house before fleeing through the back door with a duffle bag containing approximately 27 pounds of methamphetamine. In the two residences, agents recovered additional drugs and other items consistent with drug trafficking.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Hernandez faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.
The FBI Violent Crimes Task Force and the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Community Action Team investigated this case as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) program’s Operation Atonement. OCDETF is a nationwide Department of Justice program that combines the resources and unique expertise of federal agencies, along with their local counterparts, in a coordinated effort to disrupt and dismantle major drug trafficking organizations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo, Randy M. Castellano and Ry Ellison are prosecuting the case.
Albuquerque man charged with five counts of armed robberyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Estevan Hernandez, 20, of Albuquerque, was arraigned in federal court on Dec. 9 on five counts of armed robbery.
According to a criminal complaint, Hernandez allegedly robbed five Albuquerque restaurants from Aug. 6 through Nov. 4. During the final robbery, Hernandez allegedly entered a McDonald’s and approached a cash register. Hernandez allegedly pulled a handgun, pointed it at an employee and demanded that the employee get the manager, which she did. Hernandez then allegedly demanded that the manager open the register, and Hernandez took the entire till.
As responding officers converged on the restaurant, an officer spotted Hernandez as he got into a black sedan and fled. An Albuquerque Police air unit tracked the vehicle as a pursuit ensued, and Hernandez was ultimately taken into custody.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Hernandez faces 20 years in prison.
The FBI Violent Crimes Task Force investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah J. Mease is prosecuting the case.
Agawam Man Sentenced for Defrauding VA Hospitals by Failing to Inspect Medical Gas SystemsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A vendor for several Veterans Affairs medical facilities was sentenced today for defrauding the VA by creating false invoices and reports for medical gas inspections that never took place.
Chester Wojcik, 49, of Agawam, Mass., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni to two years of probation. In August 2020, Wojcik pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
Wojcik, as the owner of Alliance Medical Gas Corporation, engaged in a scheme from May 29, 2014, through March 5, 2015 to defraud the VA by creating false invoices and reports for medical gas inspections that never took place. Medical gas supply systems deliver piped gases, including compressed air, nitrous oxide, nitrogen and carbon dioxide into operating rooms, recovery rooms and patient rooms. Medical gas supply systems must be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure the safety of patients and medical professionals, and to prevent gas leaks, explosions and other safety hazards. Wojcik failed to perform scheduled inspections of medical gas systems at VA facilities in Sioux Falls, S.D., Tuskegee, Ala. and Montgomery, Ala. and later lied to VA facilities and federal investigators about the offense. Wojcik was paid $8,981 by the VA for services that his company did not perform.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Office; and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elysa Q. Wan of Lelling’s Health Care Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.
Adult Film Performer Pleads Guilty in GirlsDoPorn Sex Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorneys Joseph Green (619) 546-6955 and Alexandra F. Foster (619) 546-6735
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – December 17, 2020
SAN DIEGO – Adult film performer and producer Ruben Andre Garcia pleaded guilty in federal court today to sex trafficking charges, admitting that he conspired with the owners of the adult websites GirlsDoPorn and GirlsDoToys to fraudulently coerce young women to appear in sex videos.
Garcia pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jill L. Burkhardt to Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud and Coercion, and Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud and Coercion. Garcia, the first of six defendants to plead guilty, admitted that he worked from 2013 to 2019 as a recruiter and adult film performer for GirlsDoPorn and GirlsDoToys adult websites, which were run by co-defendants Michael James Pratt and Matthew Isaac Wolfe. Both sites offered paid subscriptions and featured videos of young adult women appearing in their first pornographic video. The websites generated millions of dollars in revenue and the videos were viewed millions of times.
Garcia admitted in his plea agreement that in order to recruit victims to appear in the videos, he and his co-conspirators threatened, deceived and lied to them, promising that the videos would never be posted online, that “no one” would ever find out, and that the videos would never be released in the United States. In actuality, the co-conspirators were posting the videos on GirlsDoPorn, GirlsDoToys, and PornHub, one of the world’s most heavily-trafficked porn sites. Many of the victim videos were viewed millions of times.
Garcia also admitted that he recruited and paid other young women to act as “references” to falsely reassure reluctant victims that the videos would not be posted online and that there was “no way” anyone would find out. Garcia used young women as recruiters, because victims “were more likely to believe other young women.” The references were paid a fixed fee for every victim they attempted to recruit and additional compensation for victims who agreed to film a video.
Victims were recruited from throughout the United States and Canada. Once they arrived in San Diego, they were taken to local hotels or short term rental units where the videos were produced. The defendant and other co-conspirators continued to falsely assure the victims that the videos would not be posted online and that no one would find out. Garcia and other co-conspirators used aliases and companies with misleading names to ensure that the victims could not discover that they were behind GirlsDoPorn and GirlsDoToys.
Before the video shoots, Garcia offered victims marijuana or alcohol and some drank or smoked with Garcia before filming. When some victims changed their minds about going forward or finishing the video shoots, Garcia and other co-conspirators threatened to sue them, cancel their flights home, or post the footage that was already filmed online, which, unbeknownst to the victims, was going to happen anyway.
Garcia admitted that victims were also misled about how long the video shoots lasted. Most were told that the video production would take around 30 minutes, when they typically lasted for several hours. Garcia admitted that the sex was rough and caused many victims pain, and, in some cases bleeding. When victims asked to stop filming, Garcia and other co-conspirators told the victims that they had to keep going and finish the videos. Hotel room doors were often blocked by camera and recording equipment.
The GirlsDoPorn and GirlsDoToys websites generated millions of dollars in revenue from this scheme. For his part, Garcia was paid a commission for each victim that he recruited on top of an hourly wage for his time. Garcia will be ordered to pay restitution in an amount to be determined by the court at sentencing.
“This defendant was a key player in a despicable fraud that has devastated the victims,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer. “We will continue to fight for justice for them, and to prevent others from becoming victims of these schemes.” Brewer commended the excellent work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Green and Alexandra F. Foster, as well as FBI agents and members of the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force, on a case that resulted in tremendous pain for the victims.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Suzanne Turner said, “The FBI is committed to investigating those who prey upon trusting women and girls, causing pain and humiliation for their own personal gain. Today’s guilty plea of Garcia is just a small victory in the ongoing battle with those who commit sex trafficking.”
Garcia is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janis L. Sammartino on March 5, 2021 at 9 a.m. The next hearing in the ongoing case is January 22, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.
Any additional victims of the alleged crime are encouraged to call the San Diego FBI at 858-320-1800.
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of Michael James Pratt. Individuals with information about Pratt should contact their local FBI office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.
For further information, please see:
- Wanted Poster: https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/additional/michael-james-pratt
- Press Release: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/sandiego/news/press-releases/fbi-seeks-public-assistance-in-locating-sex-trafficking-suspect
DEFENDANTS Case Number 19cr4488-JLS
Ruben Andre Garcia Age: 31 San Diego, CA
*Pleaded guilty to Counts 1 and 7
CO-DEFENDANTS
Michael James Pratt Age: 36 Fugitive
Matthew Isaac Wolfe Age 37 San Diego, CA
Theodore Wilfred Gyi Age: 42 Aliso Viejo, CA
Valorie Moser Age: 37 San Diego, CA
Amberlyn Dee Nored Age: 27 San Diego, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Count 1 (charging all defendants)
Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud and Coercion, 18 U.S.C. § 1594(c)
Maximum Penalty: Life in prison, $250,000 fine, and a special assessment of $5,000 under 18 U.S.C. § 3014.
Count 2 (Pratt)
Production of Child Pornography, 18 U.S.C. § 2251(a) and (e)
Minimum penalty: Fifteen years in prison; Maximum penalty: 30 years in custody, $250,000 fine, and a special assessment of $5,000 under 18 U.S.C. § 3014.
Count 3 (Pratt)
Sex Trafficking of a Minor by Force, Fraud and Coercion, 18 U.S.C. § 1591(a)(1) and (2)
Minimum penalty: Fifteen years in prison; Maximum penalty: life in custody, $250,000 fine, and a special assessment of $5,000 under 18 U.S.C. § 3014.
Counts 4 (Pratt, Wolfe, Garcia), 5 (Pratt, Garcia), 6 (Pratt, Wolfe, Garcia), 7 (Pratt, Garcia, Gyi), 8 (Pratt, Garcia, Gyi)
Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud and Coercion, 18 U.S.C. § 1591(a) and (b)(1)
Minimum penalty: Fifteen years in prison; Maximum penalty: life in custody, $250,000 fine, and a special assessment of $5,000 under 18 U.S.C. § 3014.
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
FBI
San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
28 Sentenced for "Spice" Manufacturing and Distribution in TucsonRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Arizona – The last of twenty-eight defendants charged in two sweeping investigations into the manufacture and distribution of the controlled substance commonly referred to as “spice,” a synthetic cannabinoid made with chemicals, was federally sentenced on December 10 in United States District Court.
The twenty-eight defendants were charged and convicted of a variety of crimes including conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance analogue, conspiracy to engage in interstate travel in aid of racketeering, conspiracy to commit mail fraud, introduction of misbranded drugs into interstate commerce, and money laundering.
As part of their sentences, the twenty-eight individuals forfeited, among other things, six residences, one business, twelve vehicles, $532,158 in U.S. currency, and obtained money judgments in the amount of $1,335,402.
The National Institute of Health describes synthetic cannabinoids as human-made, mind-altering chemicals that are either sprayed or dried, shredded plant material that can be smoked, or sold as liquid to be vaporized and inhaled in e-cigarettes and other devices. Synthetic cannabinoids are often labeled as “not for human consumption,” and may claim they contain natural materials, however they are dangerous chemicals that bind to the same receptors in the brain as THC and may have unpredictable effects.
Two separate multi-year investigations conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol (CBP), U.S. Marshal Service (USMS), Tucson Police Department, South Tucson Police Department, Casa Grande Police Department and the Sahuarita Police Department, discovered that “spice” suppliers in Colorado and Arizona imported the precursor chemicals from China, and manufactured the controlled substances in Long Beach, California and Tucson and Phoenix, Arizona. The suppliers then distributed the controlled substances primarily to local smoke shops in Tucson, South Tucson, Dallas/Fort Worth, and other cities, where they were ultimately sold to drug users. The twenty-eight defendants each pleaded guilty and were convicted and sentenced as follows:
On December 10, 2020, Madji Khaleq, of Denver, Colorado, was sentenced to four years of probation for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and controlled substance analogues. $164,944 in United States currency and $25,320 in money orders were forfeited. Khaleq is also required to pay a personal money judgment in the amount of $75,837 to the United States.
On November 8, 2018, Ana Patricia Hidalgo-Hernandez, of Long Beach, California, was sentenced to time served in prison, followed by three years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Introduce Misbranded Drugs into Interstate Commerce.
On November 30, 2017, Najib Alghaithi, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to twenty-four months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substance Analogues. $66,299 in United States currency was forfeited.
On October 20, 2020, Abdulkader Alghaithi, of Tucson, Arizona was sentenced to thirty-six months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release for Conspiracy Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances, Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances, and Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substance Analogues. The government forfeited Alghaithi’s vehicle and residence.
On July 12, 2018, Jamil Qasem, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to forty-two months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances and Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substance Analogues. Qasem is also required to pay $40,000 to the United States.
On January 18, 2018, Mazin Saleh, 36, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to four years of probation for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud. The government seized $5,000 in lieu of Saleh’s vehicle.
On January 23, 2018, Muhieldin Muhieldin, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to three years of probation for Receiving Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On January 4, 2018, Nasser Farah, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced to three years of probation for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.
On June 29, 2017, Davoud Shayan, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to time served followed by one year of supervised release for Introduction of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On August 15, 2017, Denice Michael, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to two years of probation for Receipt of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On January 23, 2018, Kholoud Hamdi, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to three years of probation for Introduction of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On January 5, 2018, Sharif Hamdi, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to fourteen months in prison followed by one year of supervised release for Introduction of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On June 21, 2017, Junior Jacklick, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to time served, for the Introduction of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On June 6, 2017, Qasem Mahmoud Shahin, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to two years of probation for Receipt of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On June 22, 2017, Adam Hassan, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to two years of probation for Receipt of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On February 21, 2018, Abdulaziz Shahin, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to twenty-seven months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substance Analogues. Shahin is also required to pay $14,565 to the United States.
On November 8, 2017, Nasir Ibrahim, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to thirteen months and one day in prison followed by one year of supervised release for Receiving Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On August 9, 2019, Samuel Salomon of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to thirty-six month in prison followed by three years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments. The government forfeited Salomon’s residence, two other parcels of land, his smoke shops, two vehicles, and $15,801 for the sale of a third vehicle. Samuel Salomon is also required to pay $1,200,000 to the United States.
On September 4, 2019, Daniel Salomon, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to six months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments.
On November 13, 2019, Ardell Addington, of Evansville, Wyoming, was sentenced to time served followed by three years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances and Controlled Substances Analogues.
On June 18, 2019, Renee Salomon, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to four years of probation for Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments. Renee Salomon is also required to pay $50,000 to the United States.
On August 9, 2019, Rodolfo Alvarez Samaniego, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to two years of probation for Causing the Introduction of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On June 7, 2019, Mauro Acuna, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to three years of probation for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances and Controlled Substance Analogues.
On January 22, 2020, Anabel Valdez, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to two years of probation for Receipt of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On March 19, 2018, Jose Edmundo Gradillas, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to two years of probation for Receipt of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On June 11, 2019, Alfred Manuel Gamez, Jr., of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to three years of probation Receipt of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
On March 16, 2018, Daniel James Garcia, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to four years of probation for Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances and/or Analogues and Conspiracy to Laundering of Monetary Instruments.
On July 3, 2018, Damien Ismail Sanchez, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to two years of probation for Receipt of Misbranded Drugs in Interstate Commerce.
The investigations were conducted by agencies participating in the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force. The partner agencies include the DEA, IRS-CI, FBI, HSI, CBP, USMS, Tucson Police Department, South Tucson Police Department, Casa Grande Police Department and the Sahuarita Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew G. Eltringham, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecutions.
CASE NUMBERS: 16-CR-1430-TUC JGZ (LCK), 16-CR-1431-TUC JGZ (LCK), 16-CR-1432-TUC JGZ (LCK), 16-CR-1433-TUC JGZ (LCK), 16-CR-2160-TUC JGZ (DTF).
RELEASE NUMBER: 2020-111_ Synthetic Spices###
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
16 December 2020
Yankton Woman Sentenced for Meth Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Yankton, South Dakota, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine) was sentenced on December 15, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Lawrence L. Piersol.
Morgan Rae Grant, a/k/a Morgan Ray Grant, a/k/a Sway, age 41, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Grant was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 3, 2020. She pled guilty on September 22, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from incidents beginning on an unknown date and continuing until approximately February 2020.
On October 21, 2019, a vehicle Grant was driving in was stopped for illegal tint. A K-9 dog was brought in and alerted to the presence of drugs. Law enforcement then searched the vehicle and located more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and several items of paraphernalia.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Grant was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
United States Attorney's Office District of Arizona November 2020 Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
I. Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
175 individuals were charged in November with illegal reentry
A. 126 of those 175 individuals had previously been convicted of non-immigration criminal offenses in the U.S.
Of the 126 individuals with non-immigration criminal records:
1. 30 had violent crime convictions, including:
1 individual had a homicide conviction
11 individuals had sex offense convictions
2 individuals had domestic violence convictions2. 13 had property crime convictions
3. 20 had DUI convictions
4. 60 had drug crime convictions
B. 64 of those 175 individuals had been deported three or more times
II. Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
24 individuals were charged in November with alien smuggling
III. Illegal Entry (Criminal Consequence Initiative) (8 U.S.C. 1325)
0 individuals were charged in November with illegal entry on the CCI calendar
Criminal conviction information is based on preliminary criminal history reports provided by the arresting agency.
These numbers represent United States Attorney's Office prosecutions only. These numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
*The Department of Homeland Security instituted a policy in late March of expeditiously returning aliens who illegally enter the United States rather than detaining them. The decreased number of individuals presented to this Office for prosecution coincides with the implementation of that policy and other COVID-19 related border restrictions.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2020-110_November Immigration and Border Crimes Report
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.U.S. Department of Justice recognizes Community Violence Intervention Program in Indianapolis for its work with Project Safe NeighborhoodRead the Press Release
Indianapolis – Acting United States Attorney John E. Childress announced today that the Department of Justice has recognized the Community Violence Intervention Program in Indianapolis for Outstanding Innovative Prevention/Reentry Strategy in support of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Initiative.
“This program and the group who has worked so hard for its success are worthy of recognition,” said Childress. “They saw a need, developed a plan, and have seen some promising results for those on probation who desire to choose a different path in their community.”
“The Community Violence Intervention Program is a proven approach to reduce violence in neighborhoods,” said Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett. “Director of Community Violence Reduction Shonna Majors and IMPD leadership has worked with partners and stakeholders across the city to lead on this important initiative. Thanks to their efforts, Indianapolis has a more focused, more effective strategy to reduce violence and get at-risk individuals the help they need.”
Project Safe Neighborhood: Community Violence Intervention (PSN: CVI) program focuses on individuals currently on probation who have been linked to gun crimes and non-fatal shootings within Indianapolis. The program, which focuses on a small group of individuals (between 10-20 participants), provides participants with resources intended to reduce recidivism.
The program started as a result of the United States Attorney’s Office through the Project Safe Neighborhood initiative, reaching out to the Marion County Probation Office, the Indianapolis Mayor’s Office, the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.
The theme for the PSN: CVI presentation is “we want you alive, safe and successful.” Thus, the program allows participants to engage with resource partners who aid with job placement, vocational training, transportation assistance, education, and mental health counseling. The program also includes information about the legal consequences that can occur if the individuals stay on the path they currently are on. However, the goal of this program is to steer individuals towards the resource partners and prevent recidivism. The participation with the resource partners is encouraged but voluntary. During the program, the probationers hear from the Mayor’s Office, the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, The United States Attorney’s Office, and local resource partners who are provided through the Mayor’s Office.
PSN: CVI is conducted at locations in various neighborhoods around the city of Indianapolis. The neighborhoods are chosen based on their high levels of gun violence. PSN: CVI began on March 14, 2019. The group decided to conduct meetings quarterly, and always in the evening to ensure that as many members of the community as possible can attend. This year the group has only had one virtual meeting due to the current pandemic. The group plans to meet virtually until they can safely meet in person.
The program has already produced results: Thus far, the participants’ violations have been minimal, and several participants have taken advantage of the resources that have been offered through the program. That’s why the theme of PSN: CVI, enumerated at each meeting, is stark: “We want you alive, safe, and successful”.
The following are the individual that have created the Project Safe Neighborhood: Community Violence Intervention Program in Indianapolis:
- Peter Blackett- United States Attorney’s Office
- Jennifer Joy- Marion County Prosecutor’s Office
- Shonna Majors- Indianapolis Mayor’s Office
- Megan Durbin- Marion County Probation Office
- Christine Kerl- Marion County Probation Office
- Sandra Bryan- Marion County Probation Office
- Matthew Thomas- Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
- Michael Wolley- Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
Revitalized in 2017, PSN is a critical piece of the Department of Justice crime reduction efforts. PSN has focused on prosecuting those individuals who most significantly drive violence in our communities and supports and fosters partnerships between law enforcement and schools, the faith community, and local community leaders to prevent and deter future criminal conduct.
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.
U.S. Department of Justice Recognizes U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina for its Work with Project Safe NeighbhorhoodsRead the Press Release
Take Back North Carolina Receives National Award as the Outstanding Overall Partnership/Task Force
RALEIGH – The Department of Justice has recognized the Take Back North Carolina initiative of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina with its Outstanding Overall Partnership/Task Force Award in support of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Initiative.
“We are extremely gratified and humbled by the Attorney General’s recognition of the important work being done by federal, state and local law enforcement, our partners in the District Attorneys’ Offices and by the men and women of my office as we seek to drive down crime rates and deliver safer communities to all the citizens of the Eastern District.” Robert J. Higdon, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina said. “When I took office as the United States Attorney, the President and the Attorney General made it clear that job one in our District was to reduce crime rates and to attack drug trafficking organizations operating here. We have taken that task very seriously and, because of the hard work of so many, we have seen those crime rates decline as we have removed the drivers of those crime rates from our cities and towns. This award honors a sustained effort by many, many dedicated public servants and it is a privilege to accept this award on their behalf.”
In early 2018, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina launched Take Back North Carolina in an effort to drive down spiraling crime rates and to attack drug trafficking organizations - specifically violent crime and drug activities caused by gangs and other national and transnational organizations. Through the initiative, teams of Assistant United States Attorneys and legal support staff were deployed across the 44 counties of the Eastern District focusing on six broad geographic areas. Each team was tasked with building strong relationships with federal, state and local law enforcement operating in those areas and they worked in close coordination with the 15 elected District Attorneys who prosecute state crimes in North Carolina courts in the eastern half of the State. Building on these relationships, our prosecutors worked to identify the individuals who are driving the crime problem in the communities in their assigned area and with charging and prosecuting those individuals in an effort strategically designed to reduce violent crime rates and disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking operations across the District.
Since the Initiative’s inception, more than 1600 individuals have been prosecuted as part of this Initiative, representing a more than 50% increase in the number of defendants charged by this office over those charged in 2016 and 2017. But, more importantly, due to the strategic targeting of the drivers of our violent and drug crime problems, many communities have seen measurable - and in some cases dramatic - reductions in the violent crime rates. For example, based on data analyzed and provided by our research partners at the University of North Carolina - Greensboro, the following cities saw significant reductions in crime rates during 2018 and 2019[1] while participating aggressively in the Take Back North Carolina Initiative:
-Jacksonville - 50% reduction in homicides; 42% decrease in robberies; 83%
reduction in aggravated assaults;
-Henderson - 60% reduction in robberies; 21% decrease in aggravated assaults;
-Greenville - homicides down 60%; robberies reduced by 15%.
And, these results have been replicated in communities of all sizes all across the Eastern District. We have also seen the prosecution of the leadership of numerous sects of violent, drug-trafficking gangs across the District. Targeting the leadership of the various Bloods organizations, the Take Back North Carolina Initiative has worked to disrupt and dismantle their operations in this federal district.
Drugs fuel gun violence and the opioid crisis is no exception. Aside from increasing the number of deaths resulting from heroin overdose cases prosecuted, TBNC has also focused on educating the public about the heroin epidemic through the establishment of the USAO Heroin Education Action Team (USA-HEAT). USA-HEAT works to reduce the growing harm to North Carolina families caused by heroin/opiate abuse, partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration, local law enforcement, community health professionals, and family members who have lost a loved one to a drug overdose. In the last six months, the USAO has conducted 17 training events, each lasting 1-3 hours with content tailored to that audience (e.g., first responders and community groups). Other prevention efforts include the Educating Kids about Gun Violence (EKG) program – part of the Fayetteville Police Department’s Operation Ceasefire, created in 2002 under the umbrella of PSN and USAO-EDNC. In the past 5 years, 25,241 students in Fayetteville have been educated through EKG. Overall violent crime for this age group has decreased 10% city wide since EKG began. Other PSN sites – Goldsboro, Pasquotank County, Kinston, and Vance County have adopted the EKG program. Other prevention efforts include re-entry programs, and an outdoor movie series to engage the community and create public awareness about gun violence. In 2019, 1,425 people attended 6 movie nights in Fayetteville and Cumberland County.
TBNC PSN sites have worked hard to develop an effective public messaging strategy for each community utilizing press releases, press conferences, and advertising campaigns highlighting the penalties for committing federal crimes. In the last two years, the USAO-EDNC issued over 250 press releases highlighting PSN cases and has held numerous press conferences highlighting TBNC success stories. The USAO has produced hundreds of posters for PSN sites to help spread public awareness and has worked with the Executive Office for United States Attorney’s to develop multiple Public Service Announcements (PSA) focusing on violent crime and opioids. These PSA’s have been widely distributed across EDNC for use by the media and communities.
Revitalized in 2017, PSN is a critical piece of the Department’s crime reduction efforts. PSN has focused on prosecuting those individuals who most significantly drive violence in our communities and supports and fosters partnerships between law enforcement and schools, the faith community, and local community leaders to prevent and deter future criminal conduct.
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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.
[1] These are the most recent statistics currently available.
U.S. Department of Justice Recognizes State Attorney Melissa Nelson for Her Contributions to Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Today, the Department of Justice recognized State Attorney Melissa Nelson of the Fourth Judicial Circuit for her Office’s outstanding support of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Initiative.
“Public safety is the culmination of leadership, vision, and a commitment to improving the quality of life in her community,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez. “Melissa Nelson has achieved all three. Through a spirit of cooperation and public service, she has dedicated herself and her office to reducing crime by investing in people, proven methods and technologies, and imagining new possibilities. The success of Project Safe Neighborhoods in northeast Florida is directly attributable to her ability to galvanize her office, critical agencies and community partners around a common goal – creating safer communities.”
Melissa Nelson was elected State Attorney and sworn into office in 2017. Immediately thereafter, she made PSN a priority, becoming the driving force behind creating Northeast Florida’s first Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC) and working to secure city funding for the CGIC. The Center was later constructed in her office, and officially opened on May 21, 2019. State Attorney Nelson worked closely with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (JSO) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to secure officers and agents to fully staff the CGIC. In addition, she has assigned some of the Fourth Circuit’s most experienced prosecutors to work with the CGIC team, welcomed prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office (MDFL), and has helped foster a great working relationship among all participating agencies. Because of her dedication and leadership, she was named to ATF's National Crime Gun Intelligence Board.
Prior to the CGIC opening, assistant state attorneys accompanied JSO officers to Denver, Colorado to learn about other successful PSN operations and how to incorporate best practices into the newly formed Jacksonville CGIC. As part of the overall effort, State Attorney Nelson helped to secure additional funding for National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) machines to ensure that recovered shell casings from shooting scenes are processed within 48 hours. Housed within JSO, two NIBIN machines and a full-time ballistics expert help accomplish this task. This integration of interagency coordination, cooperation, and technology has resulted in the successful prosecution of numerous state and federal violent crime cases.
To further complement PSN’s comprehensive strategy, State Attorney Nelson completely re-structured the juvenile division within her office to better serve the community and established a program to provide at least one prosecutor to every middle and high school in Duval County. Through this program, prosecutors regularly meet with students to improve relationships between the community, prosecutors, and law enforcement. In addition, as part of the MDFL’s federal Intensive Re-entry Program, assistant state attorneys are involved in the district’s re-entry efforts through the Jacksonville Re-entry Center (JREC).
Revitalized in 2017, PSN is a critical piece of the Department’s crime reduction efforts. PSN has focused on prosecuting those individuals who most significantly drive violence in our communities, and supports and fosters partnerships between law enforcement and schools, the faith community, and local community leaders to prevent and deter future criminal conduct.
U.S. Attorney Peter McCoy Urges the Public to be Wary of Coronavirus Vaccine ScamsRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- With the Coronavirus vaccine being distributed across the country, United States Attorney Peter M. McCoy, Jr. warns South Carolinians to be on high alert for fraudsters seeking to take advantage of the pandemic.
“Having already seen supply scams, provider scams, economic impact scams, phishing scams, and even charity scams related to COVID-19 across the country, every South Carolinian should be extra cautious for the possibility of phony websites and other outreach claiming early access to the vaccine,” said U.S. Attorney McCoy. “Everyone, particularly seniors and their caretakers, should be on high alert for fraudsters seeking to take advantage of their most vulnerable neighbors.”
At the beginning of December, it was reported that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) had already received over 250,000 COVID-19 related consumer complaints, with two-thirds involving fraud or identity theft.
“Be it through robocalls, texts, emails or other means of communication, the potential for continued Coronavirus scams could be as rampant as the disease itself,” U.S. Attorney McCoy continued. “Not only do these criminals victimize the recipient of the scam, they can also cast doubt for many others to trust the legitimate work being done by honest, reliable providers.”
U.S. Attorney McCoy wants South Carolinians to know that the best defense to Coronavirus scams is vigilance, knowing criminals have multiple methods to try to take advantage of others. He urges all to:
- Know that you cannot pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine or to get early access to the vaccine.
- Know that no legitimate vaccine distribution site or heath care payer, like a private insurance company, will call asking for your Social Security, banking, or credit card numbers to sign you up to get the vaccine.
- Beware of providers offering other products, treatments, or medicines to prevent the virus. Check with your health care provider before paying for or receiving any COVID-19-related treatment.
- Never send money or give out your Social Security number, date of birth, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers and expiration dates to unfamiliar companies or unknown persons.
- Know that the IRS will never ask for your social or bank information over the phone.
- If you have become a victim, do not be too ashamed or afraid to report it. Contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or online at www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
U.S. Attorney McCoy stressed his office’s commitment to stopping the criminals before more can become victims of their crimes.
“Along with law enforcement partners, the United States Attorney’s Office will work to identify, investigate, and prosecute to the fullest extent of the law those who seek to defraud their neighbors during this pandemic,” concluded McCoy.
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U.S. Attorney McCoy is currently discussing the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s efforts to combat Coronavirus-related frauds and schemes with media members. To schedule an interview with U.S. Attorney McCoy, please call the office’s Public Affairs Specialist, Michael Mule’ at 843-327-0882 or email him 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.
U.S. Attorney Lawrence Keefe Presents Leon County Sheriff's Office with Department of Justice Project Safe Neighborhood AwardRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Lawrence Keefe, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, today recognized the Leon County Sheriff’s Office as one of just two law enforcement agencies in the nation being honored for outstanding contributions to the Justice Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program. U.S. Attorney Keefe made remarks before presenting Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil with a plaque and a letter from U.S. Attorney General William P. Barr, in the rotunda of the Leon County Courthouse.
“This community should know about the extraordinary work being done by Sheriff McNeil and the entire Leon County Sheriff’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Keefe. “There are over 15,000 local sheriff’s offices and police departments in the United States and to be one of only two in the entire country to receive this award this year speaks so much about the exceptional team serving the people of Leon County.”
This PSN award recognizes a police or sheriff’s department that has shown superior commitment to targeting and/or preventing violent crime at the local level. Typically, the award would be presented by the Attorney General at the annual Project Safe Neighborhoods Conference, but this year’s event, originally planned for mid-April in Dallas, TX, was postponed and ultimately cancelled due to COVID-19.
The Leon County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) has played an integral role in furthering the goals and initiatives of the PSN Program through its ALLinLEON program, formally established in May 2019. Through collaborative efforts with law enforcement and community partners, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office, ALLinLEON has consistently been effective at reducing violent crime and making Leon County a safer place to live.
During today’s award presentation, Sheriff McNeil also recognized the following ALLinLEON law enforcement partners:
- Chief Lawrence Revell, Tallahassee Police Department
- Chief John Gourley, Florida Highway Patrol
- Sheriff Jared Miller, Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office
- U.S. Marshal Don Ladner, U.S. Marshals Service
The Project Safe Neighborhoods Program brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve, to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the country work in partnership with federal, state, and local law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
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.
Press Release - PSN Award to LCSOU.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announces resignationRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that he has submitted his resignation to President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General William P. Barr.
Herdman was sworn-in as United States Attorney on August 21, 2017 and will step-down on January 8, 2021. By operation of federal law, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bridget Brennan will be sworn-in as Acting U.S. Attorney upon the effective date of Herdman’s resignation.
“I commend U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman for his distinguished service to the Justice Department and American people these past few years,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Justin is a consummate and principled public servant who has also served as an invaluable member of the Attorney General’s Advisory Council. His steadfast commitment to building safer communities and bringing justice to the citizens of Northern Ohio and our nation is unparalleled. Under his leadership, his office forged partnerships with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to combat addiction and violence in his community. I wish him well in all his future endeavors.”
“To serve as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio for these past three years has been a singular honor,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “There are not many jobs where you can work every day to ensure the safety and well-being of millions of your neighbors and friends. Northern Ohio is where I grew up, it is where my wife and I chose to raise a family, and it is where I have always wanted to spend my entire career. To have been offered an opportunity to contribute, even in a small way, to the future of our community is the privilege of a lifetime.”
“I want to thank President Trump, Attorney General Sessions and Attorney General Barr for their confidence in me to lead this office. I would also like to thank Senator Portman and Senator Brown, both of whom originally recommended me for this position and placed their trust in my abilities to serve all residents of northern Ohio. I am also deeply appreciative of the men and women of the U.S. Attorney’s Office who have stood with me in carrying out the virtuous mission of the Justice Department. Their work and dedication to the pursuit of justice make our communities and country a better place to live. As a person soon to re-enter private life, I am forever grateful for their vigilance in protecting the public. Any credit for the accomplishments throughout my tenure as United States Attorney belongs to them and our law enforcement partners, and for that, they have my enduring thanks.”
The following are notable accomplishments achieved under U.S. Attorney Herdman’s leadership:
Enforcement Priority: Combatting Opioids & Narcotics Overdoses
As United States Attorney, Herdman’s chief priority was to focus on saving lives. When he began his tenure in 2017, no area demanded more attention than the opioid epidemic and narcotics overdose crisis. Using a whole-of-office approach, Herdman established a Diversion Working Group to pursue unlawfully diverted prescription painkillers across the supply chain, which resulted in the precedent-setting use of the Controlled Substances Act’s civil provisions to enjoin healthcare professionals from illegal prescribing. “I am particularly proud of the results of our Diversion Working Group,” said Herdman, “The hard work of those attorneys and investigators led to numerous prosecutions, convictions, and civil suits of irresponsible healthcare workers. Their efforts have absolutely reduced the oversupply of prescription opioids in our district and have undoubtedly saved lives.”
Herdman also established a Dark Web Working Group, a multi-agency investigative team tasked with identifying online vendors of illicit narcotics, especially fentanyl and synthetic opioids, and holding them accountable. These efforts have led to numerous prosecutions of dark web and online drug dealers, as well as charges against the Zheng drug trafficking organization, which is based in the People’s Republic of China and in July 2020 was designated under the Kingpin Act by the U.S. Department of Treasury. Herdman also oversaw the nationally recognized Operation Darkness Falls initiative, which was a multi-agency effort designed to identify, investigate, and prosecute the highest-profile criminal targets operating on the dark net. Given the record number of deaths stemming from the opioid epidemic, Operation Darkness Fall’s chief focus was on combatting fentanyl and other synthetic opioid dark net distributors. Included among the successful prosecutions of this operation was the identification and prosecution of MH4Life, the most prolific fentanyl trafficker on the dark net, which had over 4,000 verified drug transactions on just three of the dozen dark net marketplaces where it was operating.
In October 2018, the Department of Justice announced that Cleveland would be the location of a new, multi-agency Strike Force funded by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force. The Strike Force commenced operational activities in 2019 and is expected to co-locate all operations at a new Strike Force building, which will host all participating agencies, in January 2021.
Under his leadership, the office prosecuted more narcotics-related offenses in each year between 2018 and 2020 (393, 456, and 493 individual defendants, respectively) than ever before in the history of the district. From 2018 to 2020, the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted more than double the number of narcotics defendants than in the years 2014 to 2016. “Behind each of these numbers is a drug trafficker, someone who sold poison to one of our neighbors, friends, or family members suffering from addiction,” Herdman said, “The decision to prosecute someone on the federal level is not one that we make lightly, but the fact is that in this era, where fentanyl has killed thousands of Ohioans, there is no such thing as a low-level drug dealer. Enforcement of our nation’s drug laws is a cornerstone in winning the fight against overdose deaths, and over the past three years, our office and our investigative partners have more than done our part.”
Herdman also brought federal resources to bear in combatting narcotics trafficking in locations outside the largest metropolitan areas. In 2018, Operation S.O.S. was launched in Lorain County to help stop the supply of synthetic opioids in the area. Since that time, opioid overdose deaths in Lorain County have decreased by 31%. Similarly, targeted enforcement operations have been brought across the district, including in Trumbull County, Marion, Mansfield, and Lima. “There is no town in Ohio that has escaped the opioid epidemic,” Herdman said, “I’m proud of the cases that we have brought in smaller cities with the cooperation of local law enforcement. The residents of Warren, Marion, Mansfield, Lorain, Elyria, and many other cities have people who are alive in this holiday season because of the cases that we have prosecuted.”
Herdman also continued a series of prevention efforts designed at developing collaborative, community-wide approaches to reducing overdose deaths. In 2018, Herdman convened a conference of leaders from healthcare, recovery, social services and law enforcement communities at the Cleveland Clinic. This group, which was brought together five years after a similar conference, recommended a new community action plan that established, for the first time, a team dedicated to incorporating data and analytics into the U.S. Attorney’s Heroin and Opioid Task Force.
These efforts have seen success and, in some instances, dramatic improvement in the death rate associated with narcotics overdoses. In 2018, the district experienced the first decrease in narcotics overdoses since 2010. In Cuyahoga County, 2018 saw a 24-percent decrease in overdose deaths from the preceding year and that number remained relatively stable through 2019. Similar decreases in overdose deaths were witnessed across the district in that time span. “Despite all evidence pointing to the impossibility of reversing the upward trend of overdose deaths, we were able to do just that in Ohio through the coordinated efforts of law enforcement, treatment and recovery professionals, the health care community, policymakers and politicians, and concerned citizens,” Herdman said, “We are not out of this yet, though. 2020 will undoubtedly see a rise in overdose deaths as COVID-19 has pushed the opioid crisis from the headlines and as our neighbors suffering from addiction have had to do so in isolation, without face-to-face help from peer counselors and recovery specialists. I promised to leave no stone unturned in our fight against overdose deaths. Our office is well-positioned to continue delivering on this solemn commitment to our community in the next year and for many years to come. This is a fight that we not only can win, but must win.”
Enforcement Priority: Reducing Violent Crime
Upon becoming U.S. Attorney, Herdman established a Violent Crimes Unit and staffed it with experienced attorneys focused on prosecutions of gang members, gun traffickers, armed robbers, and carjackers. These efforts were supplemented by increased enforcement of illegal firearms possession, especially where guns were used to further other violent crimes or narcotics offenses. The number of individuals prosecuted for illegal firearms possession offenses in 2020 represented a 162% increase – almost three times as many – from the number of similar offenses prosecuted in 2016.
In both Toledo and Cleveland, the police departments were participants in the Department’s Public Safety Partnerships, which provided training and technical assistance designed to improve the city’s approaches to reducing violent crime. In 2018, the office supported Operation We-R-CLE, an enforcement operation focused on the east side of Cleveland, which resulted in the seizure of numerous firearms and arrests of the city’s most violent fugitives. That operation resulted in a historic low for homicides in the city – 2 in the month of May 2018 – and an overall decrease in violent crime across the neighborhoods selected for the initiative.
In 2019 in Youngstown, the office supported Operation Steel Penguin and Operation Rookery, violent crime reduction efforts which included a data-driven enforcement effort. Under these initiatives, the ATF, along with officers from the Youngstown Police Department and Ohio’s Adult Parole Authority, worked together to identify violent offenders and reoffenders. These operations led to 109 arrests, the seizure of 45 illegally possessed firearms and an overall reduction in violent crimes during the operational period by 30% and homicides by 90% (as to compared to the preceding year).
More recently, in July of 2020, Herdman announced that Operation Legend, a collaborative law enforcement partnership, would be launched in the city of Cleveland to address increasing violent crime rates. Operation Legend will provide funding to support almost 40 task force officers from the Cleveland Division of Police, Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Ohio Investigative Unit, and Ohio Adult Parole, as well as permanent reassignment of additional federal agents from ATF, DEA, FBI and the U.S. Marshals Service. Also this past year, in response to an alarming rise in firearms violence over the summer, Herdman announced Project Red-Zone, a partnership between federal, state, and local law enforcement in Toledo and Youngstown to federally prosecute every illegal gun possession case from those locations during the operational period of the initiative. This effort was credited with dramatically reducing firearms violence in those cities over the Labor Day weekend in 2020.
“Until this past year, our violent crime reduction efforts were making significant progress in our district’s largest cities,” Herdman said, “While there is no doubt that 2020 has presented new, substantial challenges to law enforcement when it comes to violent crimes, especially shootings and homicides, I am confident that the strategies and resources that we have put in place will witness improvement in our cities’ violent crime rates in 2021 and well beyond.”
Enforcement Priority: Prosecuting Domestic Violence Offenders
Another area of focus for Herdman was an unprecedented federal enforcement effort directed at the prosecution of domestic violence-related firearms offenders. In October of 2018, Herdman announced a new initiative on federal level domestic violence enforcement.
In the two years since that announcement, the district has seen a 300% increase in the number of firearms-related cases brought against domestic violence offenders than in previous years. “A gun in the hand of a domestic violence offender is far more likely to be used to kill the victim in that setting, and far more likely to be used against responding law enforcement,” Herdman said, “I am proud of the work that we have done in addressing domestic violence on the federal level and I believe that these efforts, which were previously never the focus of federal law enforcement, have saved the lives of domestic violence victims, innocent children, and police officers.”
National Security
As U.S. Attorney, Herdman also ensured that the Department of Justice’s number one priority – preventing terrorism and advancing national security – was carried out in the Northern District of Ohio. The office was responsible for disrupting several planned mass-casualty attacks, including a plan to attack downtown Cleveland on July 4, 2018 perpetrated by an individual who swore allegiance to Al Qaeda (United States v. Demetrius Pitts); a plot to attack a downtown Toledo bar and an energy pipeline (United States v. Lecron; United States v. Armstrong); an alleged plot by an ISIS-inspired individual to attack a Toledo-area synagogue (United States v. Joseph); and an alleged plot to kidnap and kill members of local law enforcement (United States v. Ferguson). Herdman also supervised ground-breaking prosecutions involving cybercrime, including the successful trial of a group of Romanian hackers (United States v. Nicolescu, et al., also known as the “Bayrob Group”) and continued to oversee public-private partnerships devoted to a broad cybersecurity response in Northern Ohio. Herdman also initiated prosecutions stemming from the Department’s China Initiative, including charges alleging a local researcher had failed to disclose financial support from the Chinese government’s “Thousand Talents Program.”
Fraud and Public Corruption
Throughout his tenure as U.S. Attorney, Herdman has delivered on a core Justice Department principle: rooting out self-dealing by public officials. Notable prosecutions and charges in the area of public corruption include the following:
- A former Allen County Sheriff was charged with soliciting bribes, extortion and making false statements, which resulted in a 136-month sentence and an approximately $600,000 restitution order.
- The former Chief Operating Officer of a publicly-funded hospital, along with four others, was convicted of a bribery and kickback scheme that involved thousands of dollars paid for patient referrals and the illegal use of hospital resources to support a side business.
- In a pending case, four sitting members of the Toledo City Council have been charged with bribery and extortion.
- The former chief of the City of Cleveland’s Demolitions Bureau was charged with receiving bribes in exchange for expediting inspections and providing non-public information on upcoming bids.
- A former Cuyahoga County land bank employee was charged with honest services fraud and bribery.
- A City of Cleveland Section Chief in the Engineering and Construction division was sentenced to 18 months in prison for extortion, bribery, and tax offenses after he accepted below-market improvements on his property from a city contractor he supervised and directed city projects to benefit himself. He was also ordered to pay restitution to the City of Cleveland and the Internal Revenue Service.
Fraudulent schemes, especially those that targeted vulnerable Ohioans and those seeking to exploit Medicaid programs and the nation’s efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic, received similar attention from Herdman. An active participant in the Department’s Elder Fraud Initiative, Herdman’s office brought several charges against those who sought to exploit elderly residents of the district, including some residing in nursing homes. During Herdman’s tenure, the office also brought charges against three women who, under the guise of operating a reputable adoption agency, are alleged to have paid bribes to foreign officials to facilitate adoptions for American families in violation of, among other laws, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). Charges were also brought against physicians and pharmaceutical employees who were alleged to have defrauded the Medicaid program by falsely diagnosing patients and promoting the use of specific controlled substances in exchange for kickbacks. Finally, Herdman has supervised a series of cases charging several individuals who allegedly defrauded the Payroll Protection Program, a federal effort to support small businesses during the pandemic, by, among other things, creating fictitious business and falsifying records to create the illusion that they were entitled to program funds.
Civil Rights
During Herdman’s tenure, civil rights remained a top priority of the office. Herdman also became a vocal advocate for the need to address the surge in white supremacy-related violence and threats to the public. Notable civil rights achievements include the first-ever indictment alleging both national security violations and hate crimes offenses (United States v. Joseph). Near the time of this indictment in early 2019, and recognizing the growing number of threats to places of worship and those who seek to peacefully exercise their religious rights, Herdman brought more than 250 people together, including community members, religious leaders, and law enforcement representatives and agents, for a multi-denominational conversation about supporting all faiths and securing places of worship.
Herdman also oversaw numerous prosecutions of individuals who used social media platforms or other internet-based communications to threaten northern Ohio residents with violence, including an individual who is alleged to have threatened a Youngstown-area Jewish Community Center (United States v. Reardon). With respect to human trafficking, the office remained engaged in addressing this threat to Ohioans, particularly in the area of juvenile sex trafficking. In Toledo and Cleveland, religious leaders have been charged with juvenile sex trafficking for allegedly paying underage boys and girls for commercial sex acts. Additionally, in what is the largest juvenile sex trafficking indictment brought in this district, a former Youngstown-area physician awaits trial for juvenile sex trafficking and child exploitation charges related to six juvenile victims with ages ranging from12 to 15 years.
Civil enforcement of federal civil rights laws received equal attention under Herdman, as the office has prioritized policing reform efforts, prevention of disparate discipline in public schooling, enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and efforts to combat sexual harassment in housing. Notably, and for the first time ever in the district, the office filed a complaint for sexual harassment in housing against Toledo-area residents for allegedly engaging in abusive and harassing conduct towards vulnerable women. The office also entered into a settlement agreement with the Toledo Public School District, the fifth-largest school district in northern Ohio, to address and resolve disparate disciplinary practices for minority and disabled students.
Herdman also oversaw the continued efforts of the Department to implement the terms of the Consent Decree with the Cleveland Division of Police and the City of Cleveland, which include revised search and seizure policies; use of force reforms and improved documentation and investigation of uses of force; and critical incident response training for specially-designated officers responding to calls for service to assist community members in times of a mental health crisis.
Herdman previously served as an Assistant United States Attorney from 2006 through 2013. As an Assistant U.S. Attorney, he served as Deputy Chief of the National Security, Human Rights, and Organized Crime Unit. Prior to that, he was an Assistant District Attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office from 2001 to 2004.
Herdman was nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as U.S. Attorney on June 12, 2017, and was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on August 3, 2017. He took the oath of office from U.S. District Court Judge Patricia Gaughan on August 21, 2017.
In 2017, he was appointed to the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC), of which he is currently the Vice-Chair. In this role, Herdman serves as one of fifteen United States Attorneys charged with developing and offering recommendations to improve management, operations, and functions of U.S. Attorneys’ offices nationwide, as well as the Department of Justice.
In 2019, Herdman was appointed to Attorney General Barr’s working group focused on federal responses to Domestic Violence. He has also served as Chair of the AGAC’s Terrorism & National Security Subcommittee and as a Co-Chair of the Attorney General’s Prescription Interdiction and Litigation Task Force.
Herdman continues to serve as a Judge Advocate in the United States Air Force Reserve and is a former intelligence officer in the United States Navy Reserve. He earned his B.A. from Ohio University, his M.Phil. from the University of Glasgow, and his J.D. from Harvard Law School.
U.S. Attorney David M. DeVillers statement on investigation into shooting of Casey Goodson, Jr.Read the Press Release
“As the United States pursues a full and fair investigation into the death of Casey Goodson, Jr., I want to make clear that there is one criminal investigation underway through the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio. It is a joint criminal civil rights investigation being conducted by the FBI, the Columbus Division of Police, and the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General. We are working in partnership with the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice and the Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office. We are obligated to follow the facts wherever they may lead. I have been in contact with current Franklin County Prosecutor, Ron O’Brien, and incoming Franklin County Prosecutor, Gary Tyack. We are in agreement that the facts and the law could lead to federal charges, to state charges, or to no charges at all. This is an ongoing investigation and no determination of whether any charges—federal or state—are warranted has been made.
Our goal is to conduct a thorough and accurate investigation without compromising the integrity and legitimacy of the investigation. This means we must balance the public’s interest in the investigation with a potential defendant’s right to a fair trial. Disclosing information prematurely or releasing potentially challenged evidence could severely jeopardize the investigation and any possible prosecution.
I met with the family of Mr. Goodson last week and I explained this delicate and critical balance. Mr. Goodson’s family made it clear that they are putting their trust in us to discharge our responsibilities fully and fairly. We intend to do everything in our power to honor that trust.”
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Two Texans get substantial sentences for alien deathRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas — Two men have been ordered to federal prison following their conviction of transporting aliens that resulted in death, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
David Lee Davila, 29, Penitas, and Nathan Lee Tamez, 30, Donna, pleaded guilty Oct. 31, 2019, to one count of conspiracy to transport aliens resulting in the death of a person. Tamez also admitted to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Today, U.S. District Judge Randy Crane sentenced Davila to 188 months in federal prison, while Tamez received a 151-month term of imprisonment.
In May 2019, Davila was involved in an unrelated incident in which a shooting occurred in connection with transporting aliens. Davila knew the danger the job entailed, still hired Tamez and a woman in June 2019 to transport aliens to another smuggler on his behalf.
When they arrived at the meeting location along with Davila, there was an altercation with the other party which led to gunfire. Everyone fled the scene which led to two vehicles chasing and striking each other. Ultimately, the woman Davila hired lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a residence in Alamo. Both she and Tamez were shot multiple times. The woman later succumbed to her injuries and subsequently died.
Davila and Tamez have been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility designated in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Alamo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarina S. DiPiazza prosecuted the case.
Two Individuals Admit Role in Multimillion-Dollar Compounded Prescription Drug SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Two individuals today admitted their roles in a multimillion-dollar scheme that defrauded health benefits programs through the submission of medically unnecessary prescriptions for compounded medications, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
David M. Fulkerson, 48, of Indiana, and Nathaniel Stewart III, 38, of South Carolina, pleaded guilty to separate informations charging them with conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Fulkerson also admitted to his role in a conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback statute. Both individuals entered their guilty pleas by videoconference before U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Compounded medications are specialty medications mixed by a pharmacist to meet the specific medical needs of an individual patient. Although compounded drugs are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they are properly prescribed when a physician determines that an FDA-approved medication does not meet the health needs of a particular patient because, for example, the patient is allergic to a dye or other ingredient or requires the medication in a different form.
From July 2014 to November 2016, Fulkerson and Stewart conspired to defraud health care benefits programs with others, including Kent Courtheyn, a/k/a “Troy Taylor,” who has been separately charged by indictment. Courtheyn recruited Fulkerson and Stewart to market compounded medications, such as scar creams, pain creams, and vitamins, that were medically unnecessary. In order to obtain medically unnecessary prescriptions for compounded drugs, Fulkerson and Stewart, at Courtheyn’s direction, recruited individuals who had prescription drug coverage under certain health benefits programs. In Fulkerson’s case, that included TRICARE, the health care program for the United States military. The conspirators selected medications based on their high insurance reimbursement amount rather than the patients’ medical needs. For instance, Fulkerson coached a patient on how to convince the doctor to write prescriptions for compounded medication that the patient did not need. Courtheyn, Fulkerson, Stewart, and others steered these prescriptions to certain compounding pharmacies, and in exchange, those compounding pharmacies paid Courtheyn, through his marketing company, a percentage of the reimbursement amount that they received from health benefits programs for each prescription that Fulkerson and Stewart referred. Courtheyn, in turn, paid Fulkerson and Stewart based on the compounded prescriptions that they helped generate.
Fulkerson and Stewart each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on the health care fraud conspiracy charge; Fulkerson faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on the Anti-Kickback statute conspiracy charge. They also face a $250,000 fine, or twice the gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greater, on each count. Stewart’s sentencing is scheduled for May 5, 2021. Fulkerson’s sentencing is scheduled for April 21, 2021.
As part of his plea agreement, Fulkerson must forfeit $759,710 in criminal proceeds and pay restitution of at least $2.3 million. Stewart must forfeit $756,293 in criminal proceeds and pay restitution of at least $4 million.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr. in Newark, and Defense Criminal Investigative Service, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty pleas.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys José R. Almonte and Osmar J. Benvenuto of the Health Care Fraud Unit in Newark.
The charges and allegations in the indictment against Courtheyn are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defense counsel:
Fulkerson: Peter Carter Esq., Newark
Stewart: Henry M. Coxe III Esq., and Brian Coughlin Esq., Jacksonville, Florida
Tulsa Woman Pleads Guilty to Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jamie Denise McDonald, age 31, of Tulsa, Oklahoma entered a guilty plea to Drug Conspiracy, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846, punishable by not less than 10 years and not more than life imprisonment, a fine up to $10,000,000.00, or both.
The Indictment alleged that beginning on November 4, 2016 and continuing until on or about the date of the Indictment, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, McDonald did willfully and knowingly combine, conspire, confederate, and agree with others known and unknown, including Enrique Pacheco, Wesley Michael Rollings, and Lannie Jo Carter, to violate federal drug laws by acquiring large amounts of methamphetamine and distributing it for money. Specifically, on July 14, 2019, law enforcement officers arrested McDonald and Rollings in Tulsa in possession of one kilogram of methamphetamine that they purchased from Lannie Jo Carter.
The charges arose from a joint investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, the Muskogee Police Department, and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office. Additionally, many prominent agencies which are members of the DEA High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force (“HIDTA”), contributed to this investigation, including: the Tulsa Police Department, the Broken Arrow Police Department, the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department, the Miami Police Department, the Moore Police Department, the El Reno Police Department, the Yukon Police Department, the Duncan Police Department, the Norman Police Department, the Choctaw Police Department, the Edmond Police Department, the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office, the Canadian County Sheriff’s Office, the Rogers County District Attorney’s Office, and the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office. The investigation was coordinated by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) of the Eastern District of Oklahoma. OCDETF is an initiative led and coordinated by the Office of the United States Attorney.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace, Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Conway, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Schroeder represented the United States.
Tulsa Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Firearm, AmmunitionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Bobby James Sanders, age 34, of Tulsa, Oklahoma entered a guilty plea to Felon In Possession Of Firearm And Ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both.
The Indictment alleged that on or about February 1, 2020, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, having been convicted of a felony offense punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and knowing of such conviction, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm and ammunition which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Nalani Ching represented the United States.
Three from Northwest Arkansas Plead Guilty to Making False Statements to Obtain Coronavirus Relief FundsRead the Press Release
Fayetteville, Arkansas – David Clay Fowlkes, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, announced that Melvin Stout, age 40, of Fayetteville, AR, pleaded guilty today to making a false statement on a loan application to obtain money through the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Earlier this month, Stout’s wife, Tiffany Acuff, age 36, of Fayetteville, and sister, Valarie Watson, age 43, of Fayetteville, also pleaded to charges in connection with obtaining loans through the PPP, which is intended for businesses struggling through the coronavirus pandemic.
The program, which provides low-interest, forgivable loans for businesses who use the funds for essential business expenses, such as payroll, is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, passed in March 2020.
According to the plea agreements in each case, Stout, Acuff, and Watson submitted PPP loan applications that falsely represented their ownership of small businesses, which they alleged were eligible for PPP funds. Stout, was approved and received $9,400.00, Acuff, was approved and received $20,800.00, while Watson, applied for $20,800.00, but was declined. Along with the applications, the defendants submitted falsified tax documents and business receipts. None of the defendants owned the businesses listed in the applications.
Stout, Acuff, and Watson’s sentencings will be determined by the court at a later date, following the U.S. Probation Office’s completion of a presentence investigation. Based on their guilty pleas, the maximum penalties for each defendant include imprisonment for up to five years and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case was investigated by IRS, the FBI, and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). Assistant United States Attorney Hunter Bridges is prosecuting the case for the United States.
Thirteen Individuals Charged in a Fentanyl and Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Thirteen people have been charged in federal court in Boston in connection with a Lawrence-based fentanyl and cocaine conspiracy.
The investigation, which began in May 2018 and intercepted communications on numerous cellphones, revealed that the defendants actively distributed fentanyl and cocaine and that their drug trafficking activities extended throughout Massachusetts, southern New Hampshire and Maine.
The following individuals were charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams of more of fentanyl and cocaine:
1. Anny Cruz, 37, of Lawrence, Mass.;
2. Jorge Luis Diaz, a/k/a Cosita, 33, a Dominican national residing in Ayden, N.C.;
3. Oliver Alexander Perez Soto, a/k/a Demonio, 45, a Dominican national residing in Lawrence, Mass.;
4. Joel Saldana, a/k/a Flaco, 42, a Dominican national residing in Lawrence, Mass.;
5. Oscar David Mejia Rodriguez, a/k/a Manguera, 53, a Dominican national residing in Methuen, Mass.;
6. Jorge Ramon Rodriguez Jimenez, a/k/a Cibao, 47, a Dominican national residing in Lawrence, Mass.;
7. Junior Rafael De La Rosa, 22, a Dominican national residing in Lawrence, Mass.;
8. Rosalba Bernechea a/k/a Rebusera, 19, of Lawrence, Mass.;
9. Elvin Mendoza, 24, of Lawrence, Mass.;
10. James Cann, 55, of Billerica, Mass.;
11. Hector Mejia, a/k/a Tio, 59, of Lawrence, Mass.;
12. Jesus Rojas, 27, of Lawrence, Mass.; and
13. Erick Andres Martinez, 20, of Haverhill, Mass.;
According to the criminal complaint, the investigation revealed that Diaz, Cruz, and Perez Soto led a drug trafficking organization that distributed drugs throughout the Merrimack Valley. Flaco, Mejia Rodriguez, Rodriguez Jimenez, and others were drug sources for this drug trafficking organization. De La Rosa worked at the direction of Rodriguez Jimenez. Bernechea, Mendoza, Cann, Mejia, Rojas, and Martinez worked at the direction of Diaz, Cruz, and Perez Soto distributing fentanyl and cocaine.
Today, agents seized approximately $74,000 cash and approximately four kilograms of suspected fentanyl after executing search warrants across various locations in Billerica, Methuen, Lawrence, and Ayden, N.C.
The charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by Homeland Security Investigations in Boston and the Andover, Billerica, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Methuen, North Andover, Salem (NH), Tewksbury, and Wilmington Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip C. Cheng of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tallahassee Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for Assaulting A United States Postal Service Mail CarrierRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Darius Lee Allen, 26, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced yesterday to 24 months’ imprisonment for assaulting a United States Postal Service (USPS) mail carrier with a firearm. Lawrence Keefe, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the sentence.
As part of his official duties, a USPS mail carrier was delivering mail in a residential neighborhood in Tallahassee on April 2, 2020. As he attempted to deliver to a mailbox, Allen demanded that the carrier hand him the mail instead. In accordance with USPS policy, because the mail carrier did not recognize Allen as a resident of that address, he refused Allen’s demand and placed the mail in the mailbox. About 20 minutes later, as the carrier continued delivering mail to other homes in the neighborhood, Allen approached the mail carrier’s vehicle on foot and discharged a firearm in the air. After doing so, Allen immediately retreated. The mail carrier also fled the scene in his vehicle and called 911 to report the incident. Officers from the Tallahassee Police Department responded and located the firearm Allen had discharged as well as the spent casing from the round that was fired. Allen was subsequently arrested.
“The Postal Service has been a cornerstone of our republic for some 245 years, and the American public has relied on it for secure delivery of items both important and routine,” United States Attorney Keefe said. “Individuals commit a crime when they try to disrupt a mail carrier’s solemn duty, and Allen’s assault on this federal officer also endangered others in the area.”
This sentencing resulted from the collaborative work of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Tallahassee Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lazaro P. Fields.
“Protecting the safety of our USPS employees is our most important mission, and Inspectors will continue the great work of bringing those who attack the USPS to justice,” said Antonio J. Gomez, Inspector in Charge of the USPIS, Miami Division.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
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.
Press Release - U.S. v. AllenSt. Augustine Man Sentenced to More Than Fifteen Years in Federal Prison for Offenses Involving Images and Videos of Children Being Sexually AbusedRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced Patrick Howard Woodyard (29, St. Augustine) to 15 years and 8 months in federal prison, followed by a life term of supervised release, for distributing child sexual abuse materials. On March 4, 2020, Patrick Woodyard and his twin brother, Nicholas Woodyard, were charged by indictment with distribution, receipt, and possession of images and videos depicting children being sexually abused.
Patrick Woodyard had pleaded guilty on August 28, 2020. Nicholas Woodyard is currently scheduled for trial in February 2021.
According to court documents, Homeland Security Investigations began investigating the upload of an image of child pornography that had been distributed from the Woodyard brothers’ residence. Agents executed a search warrant and seized electronic devices that contained hundreds of files of child pornography, including images of the sexual assault of a child approximately two years old. A forensic examination of the devices also revealed Patrick Woodyard’s efforts to secretly record his family members in the nude and his attempts and desires to engage in incest. Records showed that Patrick Woodyard obtained images of his friends’ children and associates from their social media accounts. He then provided those photos to others for the purposes of creating graphic sexual fantasies of the rape and torture of the children.
"For years, this individual preyed on the innocence of our most vulnerable population to satisfy his sick and demented desires,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Jacksonville, Assistant Special Agent in Charge K. Jim Phillips. "With today's sentencing we have removed him from the community and sent a resounding message that HSI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate and prosecute anyone who seeks to exploit our nation's children."
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly S. Karase.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Sisseton Foursome Charged with Assault with Intent to Commit Murder and Related CrimesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that four Sisseton, South Dakota, people have been indicted by a federal grand jury for aggravated assault and robbery.
Brendon Javon Jacob Rodlund, age 32, and Andrew Renville, age 31, were indicted on November 3, 2020. Each appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on December 14, 2020, and pled not guilty to the superseding indictment.
Tiffany Bernard, age 28, and Randall Delbert Pumpkinseed, age 31, were charged on October 6, 2020. Each appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on October 15, 2020, and pled not guilty.
The Indictment alleges that between November 16, and November 17, 2015, Rodlund, Bernard, Pumpkinseed, and Renville, while aiding and abetting each other, assaulted, with intent to commit murder; unlawfully cut, cut off and disabled a limb with the intent to maim; did by force, violence and intimidation take and attempt to take things of value from the victim; assaulted with a dangerous weapon, with the intent to do bodily harm; and unlawfully assaulted the victim, and said assault resulted in serious bodily injury.
The maximum penalty upon conviction for each offense is 10 years up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and up to $500 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges are merely accusation and Rodlund, Bernard, Pumpkinseed, and Renville are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Rodlund is currently serving a federal prison sentence and remains in custody. Renville is currently serving a state prison sentence and remains in custody. Bernard was detained pending trial. Pumpkinseed was released pending trial. A trial date has been set for February 16, 2020.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Firearm by Prohibited PersonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on December 15, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Vasiliy Vasilyevic Manuylo, age 26, was sentenced to 34 months in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Manuylo was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 3, 2020. He pled guilty on September 17, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about January 26, 2020, when the Sioux Falls Police Department came into contact with Manuylo who knowingly possessed of a Smith & Wesson, model 640 Centennial, .38 Special caliber, double-action revolver, bearing serial number BRP3384 and 5 rounds of Hornady brand ammunition. Manuylo knew he had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and being an unlawful use of and addicted to a controlled substance, and consequently could not possess firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its 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.
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: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Manuylo was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Second Escape from Federal Custody Leads to Additional Prison Time for Marion ManRead the Press Release
Marion, Ill. – Ray Allen Flener, 32, of Marion, Illinois, has been sentenced to serve 18 months in federal prison for escaping from custody. Flener pleaded guilty to the charge back in September.
This is Flener’s second escape conviction.In 2013, Flener was charged with making a false statement to the FBI and conveying a false threat.
He pleaded guilty and was sentenced in 2014 to 48 months in prison. In 2018, Flener was transferred from federal prison to the residential reentry center at Centerstone in Marion, Illinois. Shortly thereafter, Flener left Centerstone without returning, forcing law enforcement to track him down and arrest him. This led to his first conviction for escaping from custody, for which he received a sentence of around four-and-a-half months of time served in pretrial detention.In 2020, with just two months remaining on his sentence, Flener left Centerstone again, leading to his second conviction for escaping from federal custody. The 18-month sentence imposed by the federal district court in Benton, Illinois, will be served consecutively to the prison sentence
Flener was already serving.The investigation was conducted by the United States Marsha s Service, with the assistance of the Illinois State Police and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.
Rutherford Co. Resident Is Sentenced to 13 Years for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – U.S. District Judge Max O. Cogburn Jr. sentenced Nathan Michael McInnis, 45, of Rutherfordton, N.C., to 156 months in prison yesterday for distribution of child pornography, announced Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. McInnis was also ordered to serve a lifetime of supervised release and to register as a sex offender after he is released from prison.
Ronnie Martinez, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina joins U.S. Attorney Murray in making today’s announcement.
According to filed documents and statements made in court, on September 10, 2018, Homeland Security Investigations became aware that an individual, later identified as McInnis, was using a peer-to-peer network to share with other users files containing images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. Court records show that an HSI Special Agent, who accessed the network and was able to connect with McInnis’ device, downloaded multiple files containing child pornography, much of which had been produced in and distributed from foreign countries.
According to court records, on October 18, 2018, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at McInnis’ residence in Rutherfordton. During the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement seized six devices. A forensic examination of the devices revealed that they contained multiple images and videos depicting children as young as infants being sexually abused. In total, law enforcement located approximately 1,457 images and 93 videos of child pornography on McInnis’ devices.
On September 23, 2020, McInnis pleaded guilty to distribution and attempted distribution of child pornography. He is currently in custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
U.S. Attorney Murray commended HSI for handling the investigation, and thanked the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office for their invaluable assistance.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) Alexis Solheim, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville, prosecuted the case. Ms. Solheim is a state prosecutor with the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District, and was assigned by District Attorney Ashley Welch to serve as a SAUSA with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville. Ms. Solheim is duly sworn in both state and federal courts. The SAUSA position is a reflection of the partnership between the office of the 43rd Prosecutorial District and the United States Attorney’s Office.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice, aimed at combating the growing online sexual exploitation of children. By combining resources, federal, state and local agencies are better able to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue those victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Rioting for His Role in Violence Associated with Civil UnrestRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today Javon Hardy, 24, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to rioting. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
“Javon Hardy is the first of 16 defendants charged in connection with violence which occurred during protests held across our District earlier this year to be convicted,” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “By his plea, the defendant has admitted that his behavior was not constitutionally protected expression but criminal conduct. Lawlessness, violence, and property damage are inherently unjust and antithetical to the objectives of those well-intentioned individuals who come together seeking positive change in our community. The defendant, and those like him, who engage in these sorts of criminal acts contribute only to our crime rate and add nothing in terms of meaningful growth or progress in our community.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas E. Gregory, who is handling the case, stated that on May 30, 2020, in the City of Rochester, the defendant, along with numerous other individuals, participated in a public protest near the Public Safety Building located at 185 Exchange Street. At various times during the protest, the gathering turned violent, resulting in significant property damage and looting.
During the course of his rioting, Hardy approached a mobile office trailer located at the corner of Court Street and Exchange Boulevard. The trailer was rented by the Penn Lyon Homes Company headquartered in the state of Wisconsin, from ModSpace, a company located in Syracuse, NY. After walking up the stairs to the trailer, the defendant threw a flammable liquid inside the trailer and started a fire. Hardy exclaimed “Let that (expletive) burn,” and “If it’s not on fire, I didn’t do my job.” The burning of the trailer and defendant’s statements were captured on Facebook Live, which streamed the burning of the trailer on the internet. Hardy also posted his own statement on Facebook Live, admitting to being at the protests in downtown Rochester. He was wearing the same clothing as he wore when he started the fire at the mobile office trailer. The mobile office trailer was completely destroyed by fire.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito, New York Field Division; the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief Cynthia Herriott-Sullivan; the Gates Police Department, under the direction of Chief James VanBrederode; the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter; the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eric Laughton; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney Sandra Doorley; the Greater Rochester Area Narcotics Enforcement Team; and the Rochester Fire Department, under the direction of Fire Chief Willie Jackson.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 15, 2021, at 9:15 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.
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Rochester Man Pleads Guilty for His Role in Pawn Shop ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Wade Shadders, 23, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to conspiracy to transport stolen goods in interstate commerce. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that between October 2018 and November 2019, the defendant was an employee at Royal Crown Pawn & Jewelry on Dewey Avenue in Rochester, which is owned by co-defendant Devin Tribunella. As part of the conspiracy, Tribunella and Shadders engaged persons they knew were shoplifting (commonly referred to as “boosters”). They routinely advised the boosters what goods to steal from retail stores located in the Rochester area, including Home Depot, Lowes, Target, Walmart, and Wegmans. Once the items were stolen, the boosters would sell the stolen, new in-box items to Tribunella and Shadders at the Royal Crown pawn shop, for a fraction of retail value. Tribunella and Shadders then listed the stolen goods for sale on eBay using accounts registered to or controlled by Tribunella. The goods were advertised as “New” or “New-In-Box” and priced below retail value, but well in excess of the money Tribunella and Shadders had paid to the boosters for the stolen goods. Throughout Shadder’s involvement in the conspiracy, Tribunella and Shadders purchased millions of dollars’ worth of stolen goods from boosters, knowing such goods had in fact been stolen. Between April and November 2019, the two defendants sold and shipped approximately $1,561,000 worth of those stolen goods to buyers located outside of the State of New York.
Shadders and Tribunella were arrested in November 2019 for their role in the conspiracy. Charges remain pending against defendant Tribunella. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division, under the direction of Jonathan D. Larsen, Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Field Office; the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief Cynthia Herriott-Sullivan; the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter; the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Patrick Phelan; and the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney Sandra Doorley.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 22, 2021, before Judge Siragusa.
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Rochester Man Indicted by A Federal Grand Jury for Robbing the Chase Bank on East Ridge RoadRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Eric Fountain, 32, of Rochester, NY, with bank robbery, entering a bank with intent to commit a larceny, and bank larceny. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, on March 3, 2016, at approximately 2:30 p.m., the entered the Chase Bank on East Ridge Road in Rochester, wearing a black or dark-colored hooded sweatshirt with the hood up, a black baseball hat, blue jeans, tan boots, dark-colored gloves, and a black mask covering his nose and mouth. He approached a teller station and stated, “I want it all in the bag, no GPS, no (inaudible).” The defendant then placed a white plastic bag on the counter. The teller proceeded to place cash from the teller drawer into the bag, at which point defendant took the bag and fled the bank on foot.
An off-duty Rochester Police Department Investigator, who happened to be conducting personal business at the Chase Bank, told investigators that he was sitting in a cubicle in the bank when he heard a muffled voice demanding money from a teller. The RPD Investigator did not intercede because he didn’t know if Fountain was armed. At that time, he told a bank employee to call 911 as he believed the bank was being robbed. After the defendant left the bank, the RPD Investigator chased Fountain through the parking lot of the bank. The chase continued to a fence which the defendant climbed over. The RPD Investigator saw the driver’s side door of a black Ford Mustang close, and the vehicle quickly drove off spinning its tires and driving recklessly. At that time, the RPD Investigator observed the New York license plate of the vehicle. A records check determined that the vehicle was registered to Fountain’s brother. A short time later, investigators located the vehicle in a pharmacy parking lot but not the defendant. Images of Fountain were released to local media outlets in an effort to obtain information. Later that evening, a tip was received identifying the defendant as the individual who robbed the Chase Bank.
On March 7, 2016, a search warrant was executed on the Ford Mustang. Inside, investigators found a black hooded sweatshirt, a black jacket with a zipper on the left side of the chest, a black baseball hat, and a white dust mask with black electrical tape covering the outside, which were consistent with the clothing and mask worn by Fountain during the bank robbery on March 3, 2016. Several rounds of ammunition, both in the trunk of the car and in the passenger compartment, were also found in the vehicle. Subsequent DNA testing on the items recovered from the vehicle matched the defendant’s DNA.
Fountain is currently on federal probation for a drug and gun conviction.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Buffalo Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Rochester Man Going to Prison for 16 Years for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Sean R. Sullivan, 50, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of production of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 192 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that between 2005 and 2009, the defendant produced several images of Minor Victim 1 (MV1) sleeping in a bed. MV1 was approximately five years old in 2005. The images show Sullivan performing a sexual act on MV1 while she slept. In addition, between 2009 and 2014, Sullivan hid surveillance cameras in MV1’s bedroom. Using those cameras, defendant produced several images of MV1 in various stages of undress which constitute child pornography. MV1 also produced images of MV1 engaging in a sexual act with Minor Victim 2 (MV2), another individual under the age of 18.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
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Rochester Man Going to Prison for 14 Years for Sex Trafficking Minors for MoneyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Quondall Davis, 26, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of sex trafficking of a minor, was sentenced to serve 168 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, who handled the case, stated that between April 2017 and July 2018, the defendant, a/k/a Hotdog, recruited Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 to engage in commercial sex acts. Davis posted ads on “Cityxguide.com,” to entice customers to engage in commercial sex acts with the minor victims. Cityxguide.com is a website providing classified advertising across the United States and internationally. Minor Victim 1 and
Minor Victim 2 each engaged in commercial sex acts and gave a portion of the profits to the defendant. Davis knew that both victims were under the age of 18.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
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Rapid City Man Sentenced on False Statement, Drug, and Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of False Statement During Purchase of a Firearm, Assault on a Federal Officer, and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Uriah Lafferty, age 35, was sentenced on December 11, 2020, to seven years in federal prison on each charge, to run concurrently, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, $3,563.05 in restitution to the South Dakota Highway Patrol, $21,765.87 in restitution to the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, and $564.45 in restitution to a local property owner for damages incurred while law enforcement was attempting to arrest Lafferty.
The charges relate to Lafferty knowingly making a false written statement when attempting to purchase a firearm in October 2019 at Rapid City. When law enforcement attempted to arrest Lafferty on the federal warrant related to that false statement, he fled and engaged law enforcement in a high-speed pursuit lasting nearly an hour. The pursuit began on the Pine Ridge Reservation, and Lafferty was ultimately arrested near Hermosa, South Dakota. During the pursuit, Lafferty assaulted three Oglala Sioux Tribe police officers, a deputy U.S. Marshal, and a South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper by crashing his vehicle into law enforcement vehicles, swatting at the officers attempting to arrest him, and refusing to comply with orders to stop resisting. Following his arrest, Lafferty was found to be in possession of more than 17 grams of methamphetamine, which he intended to distribute to others.
“These crimes are gut-wrenching and there is no question that this sentencing is just," said Robert Perry, Assistant Special Agent In Charge of the FBI's Minneapolis field office stationed in Rapid City. "The FBI is responsible for investigating the most serious crimes in Indian Country and we, along with our federal state, local and tribal partners, will continue to work together to pursue people like Mr. Lafferty. The FBI and our partners are committed to protecting all of our communities, helping victims, and ensuring that justice is served.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its 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 local communities to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent 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: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Marshal Service, the South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Lafferty was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Randolph Man Arrested for Sex Trafficking MinorRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Randolph was arrested yesterday and charged with sex trafficking a minor.
Admilson Pires, 23, was indicted on one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor and one count of sex trafficking of a minor. Following an initial appearance in federal court in Boston, Pires was detained pending an arraignment and detention hearing scheduled for Dec. 22, 2020.
According to the indictment, Pires trafficked a minor in Norwood in July and August 2019.
The charge of sex trafficking a minor provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, five 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; Arlington Police Chief Juliann Flaherty; Norwood Police Chief William G. Brooks; and Commissioner Carol Mici of the Massachusetts Department of Corrections made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston and Randolph Police Departments and the Massachusetts State Police. The case was investigated by the Human Trafficking-Child Exploitation Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy E. Moran of Lelling’s Civil Rights Enforcement Team is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Ramah Navajo man charged for assault in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Ricky Coho, 49, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, made an initial appearance in federal court today on a charge of assault in Indian Country. Coho remains in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for Dec. 18.
According to a criminal complaint, on April 8 on the Navajo Nation, Coho allegedly shook, lifted and dropped the victim, identified in court records as Jane Doe, before dragging her into his house and assaulting her with a metal rod. Jane Doe was transported to the Zuni Hospital and then flown to the University of New Mexico Hospital for brain surgery.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Coho faces up to 10 years in prison.
The FBI investigated this case in conjunction with the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph M. Spindle is prosecuting the case.
Project Safe Childhood: Comprehensive Strategy Combatting Child Sexual Exploitation Operating at Full Speed in UtahRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY – Project Safe Childhood, a unified and comprehensive strategy to combat child sexual exploitation, continues to operate at full speed in Utah. Initiated in May 2006, Project Safe Childhood (PSC) in Utah continues to bring together statewide law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute cases and raise the level of public awareness and accountability of sexual predators in our communities.
“We have very serious problems with child sexual exploitation in Utah. Fortunately, a strong team of experienced prosecutors and investigators remain committed to protecting child victims and holding perpetrators accountable,” U.S. Attorney John W. Huber said today.
“While the pandemic has exacerbated the challenges in protecting children, there has been no slowdown in our efforts. Our investigations and prosecutions of new exploitation cases continue to move forward with determination,” Huber said.
Huber said that as a result of the pandemic, prosecutors have also been engaged in opposing the early release of PSC defendants, who are serving lengthy federal prison sentences based upon egregious offense conduct. These compassionate release motions, if granted, could result in significant reductions in the sentences imposed in the case.
Over the last several years, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Utah has prosecuted approximately 55 cases a year involving the production, possession, and distribution of child pornography and coercion and enticement of minors in Utah. These cases result from investigations conducted by members of the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. This task force was formed in June 2016 to ensure a rapid, effective response to federal crimes against children and the victimization of children by online predators. These investigations, including chat operations conducted by the task force, account for the majority of cases charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The U.S. Attorney’s Office also takes cases referred by the Utah Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
“Sadly, when it comes to the sexual exploitation and sex trafficking of children, there's never a shortage of work for our special agents and partners. The FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in Utah, Idaho, and Montana receives and responds to hundreds of cases each year. As more kids are spending time online, the case load is even greater right now,” said Special Agent in Charge Paul Haertel of the Salt Lake City FBI. “Parents and guardians need to keep a close eye on their kids’ online activities because any child, no matter the age or demographic, can be a victim. Keeping our children safe will always be a top priority for the FBI and our task force."
Members of the task force include Adult Probation and Parole, Clearfield, Layton, Lehi, Park City, Roy, Salt Lake City, Syracuse, and Tooele police departments, the Davis County Sheriff’s Office, the Davis County Attorney’s Office, the Salt Lake District Attorney’s Office, the Weber County Sheriff’s Office, the Weber County Attorney’s Office, the Utah Department of Public Safety, the Dixie State University Police Department, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
State and federal prosecutors routinely coordinate on prosecutions when cases are referred by agents or law enforcement officers. Generally, state prosecutors handle the hands-on sexual abuse portion of the investigation while the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Utah undertakes the prosecution of any connected production, distribution and possession of child pornography or enticement of a minor. This coordination is effective because federal sentencing guidelines allow for enhanced sentences of repeat sex offenders and prosecutors can seek imposition of lifetime supervision of a defendant once they finish their prison sentence.
PRODUCTION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY:
2016: United States vs. Lyman Dale Black
Black was sentenced to 300 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, after pleading guilty to one count of production of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. Black traded child sexual abuse material and through live stream chats Black sexually abused his 14-month-old victim. Black was also convicted in state court for the sexual abuse of the victim. This case is an example of the coordinated efforts with our state partners in holding offenders accountable for all conduct involved in the exploitation of children in our community. This case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in St. George.
2017: United States vs. Geoffrey James Cheney
Cheney was sentenced to 300 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, after pleading guilty to production of child pornography. Cheney sexually abused an infant child and then distributed images of the sexual abuse to law enforcement during an undercover online operation.
2018: United States vs. Nathan Ward
Ward was sentenced to 262 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, after pleading guilty to production of child pornography. Ward, an obstetrician-gynecologist, live streamed the sexual abuse of his victim, who was between 12 and 14-years-old, with another sex offender, Robert Edwin Francis, who was also identified and convicted in federal court. Ward was also convicted for the sexual abuse of the same victim in state court. This case is an excellent example of the close working relationship the U.S. Attorney’s Office has with our state prosecuting agencies. A prosecutor in the Davis County Attorney’s Office, cross-designated as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, played a significant role in this case.
2019: United States vs. Dennis Andreasen
Andreasen was sentenced to 180 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, after pleading guilty to production of child pornography. Andreasen recorded the sexual abuse he perpetrated on his 6-year-old victim. This case is an example of our coordinated efforts with state prosecuting agencies. Andreasen was also convicted of the sexual abuse in state court.
2020: United States vs. Eduardo Ponce:
Ponce was sentenced to 300 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, after pleading guilty to production of child pornography. Ponce recorded the sexual abuse of his victim. Ponce was also convicted of the sexual abuse in state court where he was sentenced to an indeterminate sentence of 25 years to life.
2020: United States vs. Michael Travers
Travers was sentenced to 210 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, after pleading guilty to production of child pornography. Travers, a long haul truck driver from Mississippi, participated in the production of sexually explicit images of an 8-year-old child.
POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY:
2017: United States vs. Donald Ray Fritcher
Fritcher was sentenced to 330 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, after pleading guilty to distribution of child pornography. Fritcher, a previously twice convicted sex offender, distributed child sexual abuse material that included images and videos of Fritcher sexually abusing two minor girls. This investigation was a coordinated effort with Homeland Security Investigations and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
2018: United States vs. Jason David Lott
Lott was sentenced to 132 months in prison, followed by 240 months of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography. Lott, who had two previous sex offender convictions, was found to be in possession of child sexual abuse material of infants, toddlers, and prepubescent children.
2020: United States vs. Aaron Scott Smith
Smith was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography. Smith, a prior convicted sex offender, possessed child sexual abuse material.
COERCION AND ENTICEMENT OF A MINOR:
2018: United States vs. Christopher Lambert
Lambert was sentenced to 80 months in prison, followed by 120 months of supervised release, after pleading guilty to travel with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. Lambert traveled from New Mexico to Utah to meet a 15-year-old female he met online with the intent to engage in sexual activity. He then transported the female minor back to New Mexico where Lambert engaged in illegal sexual activity with her.
2018: United States vs. Skyler Mark Hansen
Hansen was sentenced to 150 months imprisonment, followed by 120 months of supervised released, after pleading guilty to sex trafficking of a minor. Hansen, a long haul truck driver, admitted that over a two-year period, he coerced a minor to engage in sexual acts with him in exchange for money.
2019: United States vs. Sean Timothy O’Neill
O’Neill was sentenced to 120 months in prison, followed by 240 months supervised release, after pleading guilty to attempted enticement of a minor and possession of child pornography. O’Neill, via Facebook, attempted to entice a minor under the age of 18 to engage in illegal sexual activity. O’Neill moved from Michigan to Utah and continued in his efforts to persuade the minor to engage in illegal sexual activity. O’Neill was also found to be in possession of child sexual abuse material during the course of this investigation. This case was prosecuted in federal court in St. George.
2020: United States v. Lyle Reveral Leifson
Leifson was sentenced to 120 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, after pleading guilty to attempted coercion and enticement of a minor. Leifson, a prior convicted sex offender, arranged to meet with someone he believed was a 13-year-old minor to engage in illegal sexual activity. This is an example of the proactive efforts of law enforcement in undercover online operations in our communities.
COMPASSIONATE RELEASE CASES
United States vs. John Dennis Bowen
Bowen was sentenced to 120 months in prison, followed by 180 months supervised release, in February 2020 after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography. Bowen possessed a large amount of child pornography, distributed child pornography on his YouTube account, and live streamed a video feed of female children being sexually assaulted by adult men. U.S. District Judge Richard Shelby denied relief because Bowen had not demonstrated the existence of extraordinary and compelling reasons despite Bowen claiming he had several underlying medical conditions that put him at risk if infected with COVID-19. However, even if Bowen had demonstrated the existence of extraordinary and compelling reasons, Judge Shelby found that Bowen was a danger to the community based upon the conduct in this case and his criminal history, which included prior sexual abuse convictions.
United States vs. Aaron Elliott
Elliott was sentenced to 72 months in prison, followed by 60 months supervised release, in 2015 after pleading guilty to sex trafficking of children. Elliott advertised and arranged for a female minor to engage in commercial sex acts with clients of his escort service in exchange for money. Elliott sought relief claiming he had serious health conditions that put him at risk if infected with COVID-19. Judge David Nuffer found that Elliott had failed to demonstrate that his circumstances constituted extraordinary and compelling reasons to justify compassionate release. In addition, U.S. District Judge Nuffer found that the conduct of the offense and Elliott’s criminal history also did not support granting the relief.
United States vs. Darin Fronk Clark
Clark was sentenced to 180 months in prison, followed by 120 months of supervised release, in 2013 after pleading guilty to Production of Child Pornography. Clark induced his victim into engaging in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing sexually explicit material. Although Clark claimed to suffer from several chronic medical conditions that put him at risk if infected with COVID-19, the medical conditions did not constitute extraordinary and compelling reasons to warrant relief. In addition, relief was denied because Clark was found to be a danger to the community if released.
United States vs. Chad Ryan Huntsman
Huntsman was sentenced to 270 months in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, in 2016 after pleading guilty to production of child pornography. Although Huntsman sought release based on his health condition and the COVID-19 pandemic, Judge Ted Stewart found that Huntsman had not exhausted all of his administrative remedies. However, even if Huntsman had exhausted his administrative remedies, Judge Stewart found that Huntsman was a danger to the community and he would not be released.
Owner of Texas chain of hospice companies sentenced for $150 million health care fraud and money laundering schemeRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas - A corporate executive has been ordered to prison after his conviction related to falsely telling thousands of patients with long-term incurable diseases, such as Alzheimers and dementia, they had less than six months to live and subsequently enrolling them in hospice programs.
A federal jury in McAllen convicted Rodney Mesquias, 48, San Antonio. The one-month trial in November 2019 was one of the first criminal hospice fraud prosecutions the Department of Justice has presented to a federal jury.
Today, U.S. District Court Judge Rolando Olvera ordered Mesquias to serve a total of 240 months in federal prison and to pay $120 million in restitution.
“Financial healthcare fraud is abhorrent enough, but to fraudulently diagnose patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s is the pinnacle of medical cruelness to both the patient and their family,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick of the Southern District of Texas. “They falsely gave patients life ending diagnosis and they will pay the price with years behinds bars.”
“Mesquias funded his lavish lifestyle by exploiting patients with long-term, incurable diseases by enrolling them in expensive but unnecessary hospice services,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This significant sentence represents the department’s continued commitment to pursue those who orchestrate and commit healthcare fraud schemes.”
Mesquias and his co-conspirator Henry McInnis, 48, were both convicted of one count each of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to obstruct justice as well as six counts of health care fraud. Mesquias was separately convicted on one count of conspiracy to pay and receive kickbacks.
From 2009 to 2018, Mesquias and McInnis engaged in a scheme that involved $150 million in false and fraudulent claims for hospice and other health care services. Mesquias owned and controlled the Merida Group, a large health care company that operated dozens of locations throughout Texas. McInnis was Merida Group’s CEO.
“Families seek to give comfort and support to their ailing loved ones when all other medical options are gone,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, FBI San Antonio Division. “It is unconscionable and evil to prey upon the most vulnerable in our community to commit fraud against government-funded programs. The FBI is committed to protecting our communities from those who may not have the strength to protect themselves.”
“Mesquias’ scheme included paying kickbacks to physicians and fraudulently enrolling vulnerable beneficiaries in hospice care that prevented them from accessing curative care -- all done to steal millions of dollars from Medicare to fund lavish personal spending,” said Special Agent in Charge Miranda L. Bennett, Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (DHHS-OIG) Dallas Region. “This victimization is intolerable, and our investigators and law enforcement partners will continue to work hard to bring such criminals to justice and to protect those relying on federal health care programs.”
According to evidence presented at trial, the Merida Group, Mesquias and McInnis adopted a strategy to market their hospice programs as providing medical benefits “you don’t have to die to use.” They also aggressively enrolled patients with long-term incurable diseases, such as Alzheimers and dementia, and limited mental capacity who lived at group homes, nursing homes and in housing projects.
In some instances, Merida Group marketers falsely told patients they had less than six months to live and sent chaplains to lie to the patients. They also discussed last rites and preparation for their imminent death.
Hospice services require patients to be suffering from a terminal illness expected to result in death within six months. Not only were patients not in such circumstances, they were walking, driving, working and even coaching athletic sporting events in some instances. However, Mesquias, McInnis and others kept patients on services for multiple years in order to increase revenue.
Placing patients on such palliative hospice care meant they were unable to obtain medical coverage for curative medical services.
Mesquias also fired employees who refused to go along with the fraud. He often directed them not to “[expletive] with his patients or [expletive] with his money” by discharging patients from services. One co-conspirator said with respect to hospice patients “the way you make money is by keeping them alive as long as possible.” This included engaging in surgical and other medical interventions that were designed to extend life through the use of medical technologies, according to trial testimony.
The evidence further established Mesquias and McInnis obstructed justice by causing the creation of false and fictitious medical records. Further, they produced them to a federal grand jury in order to attempt to avoid indictment. The records added false diagnostic information, making it appear that patients were dying when, in fact, they were not.
Mesquias and McInnis also were convicted in connection with laundering the proceeds of the fraud. The jury found they used monies to purchase expensive vehicles such as a Porsche, expensive jewelry, luxury clothing from high-end retailers such as Louis Vuitton, exclusive real estate, season tickets for premium sporting events and a security detail and bottle service at high-end Las Vegas nightclubs. Mesquias and McInnis also treated physicians to lavish parties at these elite nightclubs, providing them with tens of thousands of dollars in alcohol and other perks in exchange for medically unnecessary patient referrals.
McInnis will be sentenced at a later date. Two other co-conspirators have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
DHHS-OIG, FBI and Texas Health and Human Services Commission conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Swartz of the Southern District of Texas and Assistant Chief Jacob Foster and Trial Attorney Kevin Lowell of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section re prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Health Care Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for nearly $19 billion. In addition, DHHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the DHHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
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.
Owner of Texas Chain of Hospice Companies Sentenced for $150 Million Health Care Fraud and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
A corporate executive has been ordered to serve 20 years in prison after his conviction related to falsely telling thousands of patients with long-term incurable diseases, such as Alzheimers and dementia, they had less than six months to live and subsequently enrolling them in hospice programs.
A federal jury in McAllen, Texas, convicted Rodney Mesquias, 48, of San Antonio, Texas. The one-month trial in November 2019 was one of the first criminal hospice fraud prosecutions the Department of Justice has presented to a federal jury.
Today, U.S. District Court Judge Rolanda Olvera ordered Mesquias to serve a total of 240 months in federal prison and to pay $120 million in restitution.
“Mesquias funded his lavish lifestyle by exploiting patients with long-term, incurable diseases by enrolling them in expensive but unnecessary hospice services,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This significant sentence represents the department’s continued commitment to pursue those who orchestrate and commit healthcare fraud schemes.”
“Financial healthcare fraud is abhorrent enough, but to fraudulently diagnose patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s is the pinnacle of medical cruelness to both the patient and their family,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick of the Southern District of Texas. “They falsely gave patients life ending diagnosis and they will pay the price with years behinds bars.”
“Families seek to give comfort and support to their ailing loved ones when all other medical options are gone,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs of the FBI’s San Antonio Division. “It is unconscionable and evil to prey upon the most vulnerable in our community to commit fraud against government-funded programs. The FBI is committed to protecting our communities from those who may not have the strength to protect themselves.”
“Mesquias’ scheme included paying kickbacks to physicians and fraudulently enrolling vulnerable beneficiaries in hospice care that prevented them from accessing curative care – all done to steal millions of dollars from Medicare to fund lavish personal spending,” said Special Agent in Charge Miranda L. Bennett of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Region. “This victimization is intolerable, and our investigators and law enforcement partners will continue to work hard to bring such criminals to justice and to protect those relying on federal health care programs.”
Mesquias and his co-conspirator Henry McInnis, 48, were both convicted of one count each of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to obstruct justice as well as six counts of health care fraud. Mesquias was separately convicted on one count of conspiracy to pay and receive kickbacks.
From 2009 to 2018, Mesquias orchestrated a scheme that involved $150 million in false and fraudulent claims for hospice and other health care services. Mesquias owned and controlled the Merida Group, a large health care company that operated dozens of locations throughout Texas.
According to evidence presented at trial, Mesquias and the Merida Group adopted a strategy to market their hospice programs as providing medical benefits “you don’t have to die to use.” They also aggressively enrolled patients with long-term incurable diseases, such as Alzheimers and dementia, and limited mental capacity who lived at group homes, nursing homes and in housing projects.
In some instances, Merida Group marketers falsely told patients they had less than six months to live and sent chaplains to lie to the patients. They also discussed last rites and preparation for their imminent death.
Hospice services require patients to be suffering from a terminal illness expected to result in death within six months. Not only were patients not in such circumstances, they were walking, driving, working and even coaching athletic sporting events in some instances. However, Mesquias and others kept patients on services for multiple years in order to increase revenue.
Placing patients on such palliative hospice care meant they were unable to obtain medical coverage for curative medical services.
Mesquias also fired employees who refused to go along with the fraud. He often directed them not to “[expletive] with his patients or [expletive] with his money” by discharging patients from services. One co-conspirator said with respect to hospice patients “the way you make money is by keeping them alive as long as possible.” This included engaging in surgical and other medical interventions that were designed to extend life through the use of medical technologies, according to trial testimony.
The evidence further established Mesquias obstructed justice by causing the creation of false and fictitious medical records. Further, Mesquias produced them to a federal grand jury in order to attempt to avoid indictment. The records added false diagnostic information, making it appear that patients were dying when, in fact, they were not.
Mesquias also was convicted in connection with laundering the proceeds of the fraud. The jury found they used monies to purchase expensive vehicles such as a Porsche, expensive jewelry, luxury clothing from high-end retailers such as Louis Vuitton, exclusive real estate, season tickets for premium sporting events and a security detail and bottle service at high-end Las Vegas nightclubs. Mesquias also treated physicians to lavish parties at these elite nightclubs, providing them with tens of thousands of dollars in alcohol and other perks in exchange for medically unnecessary patient referrals.
McInnis will be sentenced at a later date. Two other co-conspirators have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
The Department of Health and Human Service – Office of Inspector General (DHHS-OIG); FBI and Texas Health and Human Services Commission conducted the investigation. Assistant Chief Jacob Foster and Trial Attorney Kevin Lowell of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Swartz of the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Health Care Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for nearly $19 billion. In addition, DHHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the DHHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
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.
Owner of Waseca Travel Agency Charged with Defrauding Travel Agents Nationwide of Nearly $500,000 in Commission MoneyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a federal indictment charging MATTHEW HARALD SCHUMACHER, 44, with four counts of wire fraud. SCHUMACHER will make his initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on January 4, 2020.
According to the allegations in the indictment, SCHUMACHER was owner and operator of Travel Troops, LLC, and Vacation Agent Nation, LLP, which were host travel agencies based in Waseca, Minnesota. Through his businesses, SCHUMACHER purported to provide host travel services to independent travel agents throughout the United States in exchange for a monthly fee. SCHUMACHER represented that his host travel business was a reliable and profitable means for his fee-paying travel agents to receive higher commission rates from travel industry suppliers, such as airlines, resorts, and cruise companies, than if the individual travel agents booked their customers’ travel arrangements. Pursuant to service agreements that SCHUMACHER entered into with travel agents, SCHUMACHER claimed to receive and collect on behalf of travel agents commission payments from travel industry suppliers and to distribute those commission payments to the various travel agents who booked the travel and earned the commissions.
However, according to the allegations in the indictment, SCHUMACHER defrauded at least 36 travel agents by misappropriating for his own personal use and benefit at least approximately $484,000 in commission payments owed to them from travel suppliers. SCHUMACHER tried to retain his travel agents’ money and to lull them into a false sense of security by, among other things, providing the travel agents with partial payments and by giving them materially false and fraudulent information.
As further alleged in the indictment, SCHUMACHER misappropriated travel agents’ commission payments for his own personal use and benefit by, among other things, depositing at least approximately $160,000 to a personal account, funding of at least approximately $150,000 for his own travel expenses, including travel to Australia, the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, and multiple European countries, withdrawing of at least approximately $33,000 in cash, purchasing approximately $3,117 of electronics at Best Buy, as well as making payments for personal expenses, such as retail purchases, restaurant bills, car payments, credit card bills, StubHub ticket purchases, and loan payments.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew S. Ebert is prosecuting the case.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defendant Information:
MATTHEW HAROLD SCHUMACHER, 44
Waseca, Minn.
Charges:
- Wire fraud, 4 counts
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to 209 Months, $1,200 Restitution for Kidnapping, Robbery, Possessing and Brandishing A Firearm During A Crime of ViolenceRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Rafael Torres, age 35, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma was sentenced to 209 months’ imprisonment, and 5 years of supervised release for Kidnapping, Interference With Commerce By Robbery, Use, Carry, And Brandish A Firearm During And In Relation To A Crime Of Violence, and to Felon In Possession Of Firearm. Torres was also ordered to pay $1,200.00 in restitution. When on supervised release, Torres will not be able to possess a firearm or any controlled dangerous substances, he must submit to DNA testing, and he must participate in treatment for drugs, alcohol, and mental health issues. The charges arose from an investigation by the Morrilton Police Department (Arkansas), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Indictment alleged that on February 3, 2019, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant unlawfully and willfully seized, confined, inveigled, kidnapped, abducted and carried away J.S., and held J.S. for the purpose of acquiring transportation, and willfully transported J.S. in interstate commerce from Oklahoma to Arkansas.
Additional counts in the Indictment alleged the defendant unlawfully obstructed, delayed and affected, and attempted to obstruct, delay and affect, commerce as that term is defined in Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951, and the movement of articles and commodities in such commerce, by robbery; that he knowingly brandished, carried and used a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence for which he may be prosecuted in a court of the United States, that is, Interference with Commerce by Robbery; and that the defendant, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “The defendant in this case forced his way into the victim’s vehicle and for hours forced him to drive around at gun point with no apparent destination in mind – a truly horrific situation for the victim. Fortunately the victim took advantage of an opportunity to separate from the defendant and was able to alert law enforcement. The victim’s night of terror ended with the defendant being taken into custody. The memories of that night may fade slowly, but hopefully justice served will be another step toward fully recovering from the emotional trauma the defendant inflicted.”
“The FBI and its partners will continue to aggressively investigate violent crimes such as the ones committed by Mr. Torres”, said Melissa Godbold, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Oklahoma City Division. “We are grateful for the partnership of the United States Attorney’s Office, and its successful prosecution of this case which removed a violent criminal from the community.”
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah McAmis represented the United States.
Northern Alabama Doctor and Practice Manager Convicted for Conspiring to Unlawfully Distribute OpioidsRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Northern Alabama doctor and her husband, who also served as her practice manager, pleaded guilty today for their roles in unlawfully distributing opioids and other controlled substances while the doctor was absent from the clinic.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona of the Northern District of Alabama, Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerly of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Orleans Field Division, and Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp Jr. of the FBI’s Birmingham Field Office made the announcement.
Elizabeth Korcz, M.D., 47, a licensed physician, and Matthew Korcz, 47, her husband and former practice manager, both of Hoover, Alabama, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully distribute controlled substances. As part of the plea, the defendants also agreed to forfeit $46,181.79.
The defendants owned and operated Hoover Alt MD, a purported medical clinic with an in-house dispensary. As part of their guilty pleas, the defendants admitted to providing dangerous doses of hydrocodone to patients who were not first examined by a medical professional, and at times when Dr. Korcz was absent from their clinic. The defendants did not employ registered nurses or other qualified medical professionals to examine patients, despite Dr. Korcz’s frequent absences. According to the plea agreement, the defendants admitted to allowing hydrocodone to be dispensed from their in-house dispensary on multiple occasions when Dr. Korcz was out of state.
Austin Haskew, 31, of Leeds, a pharmacy technician at Hoover Alt MD, pleaded guilty to unlawful distribution of a controlled substance. DEA and FBI investigated the case. Trial Attorney Devon Helfmeyer of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney J.B. Ward of the Northern District of Alabama are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force and the Health Care Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in October 2018, the ARPO Strike Force, which operates in 10 districts, has charged more than 85 defendants who are collectively responsible for distributing more than 65 million pills. Since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for approximately $19 billion. In addition, the Health and Human Services (HHS) Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-Office of Inspector General, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the number of fraudulent providers.
Individuals who believe that they may be a victim of this crime should visit the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness website for more information.
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.
Northern Alabama Doctor and Practice Manager Convicted for Conspiring to Unlawfully Distribute OpioidsRead the Press Release
A Northern Alabama doctor and her husband, who also served as her practice manager, pleaded guilty today for their roles in unlawfully distributing opioids and other controlled substances while the doctor was absent from the clinic.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona of the Northern District of Alabama, Special Agent in Brad L Byerly of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Orleans Field Division, and Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp, Jr. of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Birmingham Field Office made the announcement.
Elizabeth Korcz, M.D., 47, a licensed physician, and Matthew Korcz, 47, her husband and former practice manager, both of Hoover, Alabama, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully distribute controlled substances. As part of the plea, the defendants also agreed to forfeit $46,181.79. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
As part of their guilty pleas, the defendants admitted to providing dangerous doses of hydrocodone to patients who were not examined by a medical professional and while Dr. Korcz was absent from their clinic. The defendants owned and operated Hoover Alt MD, a purported medical clinic with an in-house dispensary. The defendants did not employ registered nurses or other qualified medical professionals, despite Dr. Korcz’s absences. The defendants admitted to allowing hydrocodone to be dispensed from their in-house dispensary while Dr. Korcz was out of state on multiple occasions, according to the plea agreement.
DEA and FBI investigated the case. Trial Attorney Devon Helfmeyer of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney J.B. Ward of the Northern District of Alabama are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) Strike Force. Since its inception in October 2018, the ARPO Strike Force, which operates in 10 districts, has charged more than 85 defendants who are collectively responsible for distributing more than 65 million pills. Since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for approximately $19 billion. In addition, the Health and Human Services (HHS) Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-Office of Inspector General, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
Individuals who believe that they may be a victim in this case should visit the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness website for more information.
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.
New York For-Hire Vehicle Driver Admits Federal Sex CrimesRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A New York man today admitted to enticing a minor and transporting the minor across state lines to engage in sexual activity, and to receiving images of child sexual abuse from another minor, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Richard Gabriel Piedra Ordonez, 36, of Queens, New York, pleaded guilty by videoconference before U.S. District Judge Noel L. Hillman in Camden federal court to a three-count information charging him with one count of coercion and enticement of a minor; one count of transporting a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity; and one count of receiving child pornography.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
In April 2019, Piedra began communicating with a New Jersey resident who was under the age of 16 using Snapchat and other social media and messaging platforms. Piedra was aware of the minor’s age and misrepresented his own age as 19 when he was actually 35 years old. Over the course of the subsequent months, Piedra and the victim met in person and engaged in a sexual relationship. Piedra traveled to New Jersey to have sex with the victim and twice drove the victim to his home in New York City, where they engaged in sexual activity.
Federal law enforcement agents executing a search warrant on Piedra’s residence in December 2019 found sexually explicit images and videos of minors on a hard drive located in Piedra’s bedroom. Further investigation revealed that, in 2017, Piedra had communicated with an Indiana resident who was under the age of 15 using various social media and messaging platforms. Piedra was aware of the minor’s age and misrepresented his own age as 19 years old. Piedra requested and received sexually explicit images and videos from this victim.
The count of transporting a minor carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a $250,000 fine. The count of coercion and enticement carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a $250,000 fine. The count of receiving child pornography carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 5 years, a maximum potential penalty of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine. Piedra will be required to register as a sex offender. Sentencing is scheduled for April 14, 2021.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents with FBI’s Atlantic City Child Exploitation & Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr. in Newark, the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Damon G. Tyner, and the N.J State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea. He also thanked the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Jeffrey H. Sutherland, for its assistance with the investigation.
The Government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel A. Friedman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Camden.
Defense counsel: James J. Leonard, Esq., Atlantic City, New Jersey
New Jersey Man Charged with Stealing Unemployment Insurance BenefitsRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Union County, New Jersey, man will make his initial court appearance today on charges of using other individuals’ personal identification information to obtain unemployment insurance benefits, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Maurice Mills, 28, of Union Township, New Jersey, is scheduled to appear by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge James B. Clark III.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
The federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was signed into law on March 27, 2020. The CARES Act created a new temporary federal unemployment insurance program called Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), which provides unemployment insurance benefits for individuals who are not eligible for other types of unemployment, such as people who are self-employed, independent contractors, and gig economy workers. The CARES Act also created a new temporary federal program called the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program (FPUC) that provides an additional $600 weekly benefit to those eligible for PUA and regular unemployment insurance benefits.
A single IP address was used to submit unemployment insurance benefits claims on behalf of approximately 20 individuals to the State of New York. Many of these claims were in the names of individuals located in Texas and directed the benefits to be sent to locations in New Jersey. Mills was associated both with the IP address as well as a telephone number used to make some of the claims. Mills also was observed using an unemployment insurance benefits debit card to make a withdrawal from an ATM. To date, the claims made using the IP address have resulted in more than $400,000 in actual losses and more than $600,000 in potential losses. The charge of wire fraud is punishable by a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of the greater of $250,000, twice the gross profits or loss, whichever is greater.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael C. Mikulka in New York; special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr. in Newark; inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Acting Inspector in Charge Raimundo Marrero in Newark; and special agents of the U.S. Secret Service, under Special Agent in Charge Mark McKevitt in Newark, with the investigation leading to the charges. U.S. Attorney Carpenito also thanked the New York State Department of Labor, Office of Special Investigations for its assistance in the investigation.
This case is being investigated as part of the Department of Justice’s COVID Fraud Task Force. To learn more about the Department’s efforts to stop illegal COVID-19-related activity, visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus. The public is urged to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline by phone at (1-866-720-5721) or via an online reporting form available at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Kogan of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Cybercrime Unit in Newark and Trial Attorney Jessica Peck, Trial Attorney, of the DOJ Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Nearly three dozen Savannah-area defendants charged in drug trafficking indictment in Operation Deadlier CatchRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: A total of 29 defendants face multiple federal felony charges in a drug trafficking investigation targeting a violent Savannah-area network that distributed cocaine, heroin and marijuana.
Investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), Operation Deadlier Catch involved multiple federal agencies who traced a major source of cocaine distributed in Chatham County to a drug trafficking organization that channeled drugs from Mexico through a California supplier, said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
“This investigation represents yet another significant infiltration and disruption of a violent, gang-related drug distribution network in the Southern District,” said U.S. Attorney Christine. “Our dedicated law enforcement partners continue to demonstrate our shared commitment to target and eliminate those who would spread poison and fear in our communities.”
In Operation Deadlier Catch, investigators from the FBI, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Chatham-Savannah Counter Narcotics Team (CNT), and the Savannah Police Department monitored and infiltrated the drug trafficking network to trace the source of supply and points of distribution in the greater Savannah area, and to identify and eliminate sources of violent crime in the community. In a series of searches, investigators seized more than 24 kilograms of cocaine, more than 180 pounds of marijuana, 3 kilos of heroin, and at least 14 firearms – many of them in the possession of previously convicted felons.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia also has initiated civil forfeiture proceedings for the firearms and $1.5 million in cash and other assets including vehicles and jewelry, along with two homes in Savannah that are alleged to have been used as part of the drug distribution network.
“There is no better example of the value of our partnerships between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies than ‘Operation Deadlier Catch’,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The removal of drugs, guns and alleged gang members immediately makes the streets of Savannah safer, thanks to those partnerships.”
Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division stated, “DEA places the highest priority of not only removing dangerous drugs from the street, but also on seizing the ill-gotten gains of illegal drug trafficking. DEA's intent clearly is to put drug traffickers out of business by using every available resource. This case was successful because of the collaborative efforts of our federal, state and local law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney’s Office.”
“The United States Postal Inspection Service was proud to play a role along with its local, state and federal partners in this operation, to target individuals trafficking in illegal narcotics in the Savannah region,” said Antonio Gomez, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Miami Division. “Criminals that traffic in narcotics and its associated violent crimes will continue to be targeted by these law enforcement agencies, and will face their day in court.”
“CNT is proud to work with the United States Attorney’s Office, and our many law enforcement partners, in pursuit of our mission to target drug traffickers in this community. The importance of prosecution led, multi-agency investigations, such as this one cannot be understated,” said CNT Director Michael G. Sarhatt. “Our Chatham County community is safer when we combine our efforts to remove the criminal organizations bringing drugs into this area.”
A 27-count indictment unsealed in U.S.A. vs. Bulloch, et.al, alleges multiple felony charges against 29 defendants. Each of the defendants is charged with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute 5 Kilograms or More of Cocaine, 28 Grams or More of Crack Cocaine, and an Amount of Marijuana, a charge that carries a maximum penalty upon conviction of up to life in federal prison. Those charged and any additional charges include:
- Joseph Bulloch, a/k/a “Lil Joe,” 32, of Savannah, also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute 5 Kilograms or More of Cocaine, 28 Grams or More of Crack Cocaine, and an Amount of Heroin and Marijuana; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon; and two counts of Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- Ildelfonso Sanchez-Inzunza, a/k/a “Jessie,” 29, of Savannah, also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute 5 Kilograms or More of Cocaine, 28 Grams or More of Crack Cocaine, and an Amount of Heroin and Marijuana; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Possession of a Firearm by an Illegal Alien; and Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- Kashif Collins, a/k/a “Sheef,” a/k/a “Fat Boy,” 34, of Savannah, also charged with Possession With Intent to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Cocaine and An Amount of Marijuana; and two counts of Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- Jontae Keel, a/k/a “Biyha” 29, of Savannah, also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Kilograms or More of Marijuana; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon; and two counts of Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- Rashamel Brown, a/k/a “2Stiff Respeckk,” 25, of Savannah, also charged with Conspiracy to Use, Carry, or Possess Firearms;
- Bernard Carter, a/k/a “Nard,” 28, of Savannah;
- Jarnard Williams, a/k/a “June,” 30, of Savannah;
- Charles Collins, a/k/a “Greg,” 66, of Savannah, also charged with Distribution of Cocaine; and Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- Craig Scott, a/k/a “Major Flavor,” 26, address unknown, also charged with Conspiracy to Use, Carry, or Possess Firearms;
- Lamar Harris, a/k/a “Foolie,” 19, of Savannah, also charged with Conspiracy to Use, Carry, or Possess Firearms; Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Cocaine, and an Amount of Marijuana; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; and Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- Yusef Scott, a/k/a “Self,” a/k/a “Bolton St Self,” 21, an inmate at the Chatham County Detention Center, also charged with Conspiracy to Use, Carry, or Possess Firearms; Using and Carrying a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime; Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Cocaine, and an Amount of Marijuana; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; and Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- Jermaine Robbins, a/k/a “Juggy,” a/k/a “Jug Love,” a/k/a “Chicken Man,” 41, an inmate at the Chatham County Detention Center, also charged with Conspiracy to Use, Carry, or Possess Firearms; Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Cocaine, and an Amount of Marijuana; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; and Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- Barshalai Jones, a/k/a “Paidfully AK,” 19, an inmate at the Chatham County Detention Center, also charged with Conspiracy to Use, Carry, or Possess Firearms; Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 Grams or More of Cocaine, and an Amount of Marijuana; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug-Trafficking Crime; and Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- Shakeem Douse, a/k/a “G Street NBA,” a/k/a “Pothead,” 26, of Savannah, also charged with Conspiracy to Use, Carry, or Possess Firearms; and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon;
- Andre Woolford, a/k/a “Hoggie,” 27, of Savannah, also charged with Distribution of Cocaine;
- Temperance Fennell, 37, of Pooler, Ga., also charged with Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- Joseph Parrish, a/k/a “Wifi,” a/k/a “Wee Wee,” 29, of Savannah, also charged with Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; and two counts of Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises;
- David Fuentes, a/k/a “Shaggy,” 31, of Pooler, Ga., also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Kilograms or More of Marijuana;
- Javontae Parrish, a/k/a “Vontae,” 30, of Savannah, also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Kilograms or More of Marijuana;
- Jashavious Keel, a/k/a “Bub,” 27, of Savannah, also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana; and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime;
- Thomas Holland, a/k/a “White Boy,” 37, of Savannah, also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Kilograms or More of Marijuana;
- Joann Keel Robinson, a/k/a “Ma Dukes,” 53, of Savannah;
- Gumecindo Ramirez-Perales, 46, of Bakersfield, Calif., also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute 50 Kilograms or More of Marijuana;
- Omar Alejandro Gonzalez, 41, of Bakersfield, Calif.;
- Jose Joel Elicier Christophers, 38, of Bakersfield, Calif.;
- Tyreik Watson, 42, an inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Yazoo City Low, in Yazoo City, Miss.;
- Darin Smith, a/k/a “Evil Twin,” 49, an inmate at the Chatham County Detention Center;
- Morissa Pollard, 34, of Savannah, also charged with Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; and,
- Michael Simmons, a/k/a “Unc,” 57, of Savannah.
Criminal indictments contain only charges; defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. It is being investigated by the FBI, the DEA, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, CNT, the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office, and the Savannah Police Department, and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank M. Pennington and Noah Abrams, with asset forfeitures coordinated by Xavier A. Cunningham, Section Chief of the Asset Forfeiture Recovery Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and Gary Purvis, Asset Litigation Financial Analyst.
Southern District of Georgia U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine, joined by federal and local law enforcement officials on Dec. 16, 2020, announces the indictments of 29 defendants in Operation Deadlier Catch, a drug trafficking investigation targeting a gang-related network in the greater Savannah area.Monongalia County woman admits to role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Loren Delaney, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to her role in methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin drug distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Delaney, age 29, pled guilty to one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine Base.” Delaney admitted to having cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in May 2020 in Monongalia County.
Delaney faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zelda E. Wesley and Sarah E. Wagner are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The FBI's Northern West Virginia Drug Task Force in partnership with the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. The Task Forces have members from the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Monongalia County Sheriff's Office; and, the Morgantown, WVU, Granville and Star City Police Departments. The investigation was also assisted by the following law enforcement partners: the Monongalia County Prosecutor’s Office, the FBI in Houston, Texas; the Houston Police Department's Multi Agency Gang Initiative; the United States Postal Inspection Service in Houston; and, the FBI and DEA in Los Angeles, California.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Monongalia County man admits to role in firearms conspiracyRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dylan Conaway, of Morgantown, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a firearms conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Conaway, age 27, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Violate Federal Firearms Laws.” Conaway admitted to working with others to illegally purchase firearms in May 2018 in Monongalia County.
Conaway faces up to five years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher L. Bauer is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Missoula man sentenced to prison for illegally possessing firearmRead the Press Release
MISSOULA — A Missoula man, who admitted illegally possessing a firearm that he discharged in his apartment, was sentenced today to 32 months in prison and three years of supervised release, said Acting U.S. Attorney Leif Johnson.
Brandon Mitchell Darrah, 35, pleaded guilty on Aug. 20 to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The prosecution said in court documents that in December 2019, Darrah was on state probation for a felony drug conviction and was being supervised by the Montana Department of Corrections. On Dec. 11, 2019, Missoula police officers responded to a call of a discharged firearm and, after interviewing a witness, determined that the shot came from Darrah’s apartment. An officer located Darrah on the street near the apartment building. Darrah admitted the shot was fired from his apartment but denied being the shooter. Darrah said the shooter ran off. His statement conflicted with a witness’s statement that Darrah was alone.
Darrah’s probation officer authorized a search of his apartment, and police officers found a revolver, a holster, ammunition, spent casings, gun cleaning accessories and drug paraphernalia. The handgun and some of the ammunition were found in a shoe box in a crawl space above the bathroom.
Darrah admitted to law enforcement that the firearm belonged to him and said the firearm discharge in his apartment was accidental. Darrah also admitted he hid the gun in the box found in the ceiling and that he had lied to police officers. Darrah said he knew he was not supposed to have the firearm.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee Peterson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Missoula Police Department, FBI and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation.
This case is part of Project Guardian, a Department of Justice initiative launched in the fall of 2019 to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Through Project Guardian, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Montana is working to enhance coordination of its federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement partners in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. In addition, Project Guardian supports information sharing and taking action when individuals are denied a firearm purchase by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System for mental health reasons or because they are a prohibited person.
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Mifflin County Man Charged with Wire Fraud and Making False StatementsRead the Press Release
WILLIAMSPORT – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on December 10, 2020, Daniel P. Sickels, age 46, of Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury on wire fraud and false statement charges.
According to David J. Freed, the indictment charges Sickels, a Network and Systems Manager at Pennsylvania State University (“PSU), with fraudulently acquiring equipment that he subsequently sold to third parties. The scheme lasted from 2005 to 2017. Sickels is also charged with falsely telling investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation that he never received payment for items that were purchased by PSU.
The matter was investigated by investigators at PSU and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Alisan V. Martin is prosecuting the case.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Sickels faces maximum penalties of 25 years’ imprisonment, a fine of twice the gross gain or loss, and 8 years of supervised release when he is sentenced. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Michigan Based Wire Fraud Conspiracy and Tax Offenses ChargedRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Detroit, Michigan, returned an indictment today charging Michigan businessmen John Angelo from Royal Oak, Cory Justin Mann from West Bloomfield, Michael Daneshvar from Bingham Farms, Glenn Franklin from Harrison Township, and Brent Sitto, from Bloomfield Township with one count each of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and further charging John Angelo and bookkeeper Rosina Angelo, also known as Rosina Caruvana, from Mountainside, New Jersey, with one count of conspiracy to defraud the IRS. John Angelo and Rosina Angelo were also each charged with three counts of aiding in the preparation of a false tax return and Cory Mann was charged with two additional counts of aiding in the preparation of a false tax return.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.
According to the indictment, from at least January 2014 through October 2019, John Angelo, Mann, Daneshvar, Franklin, and Sitto, along with others, conspired to fraudulently use a Detroit Police Department (DPD) password to unlawfully obtain State of Michigan Traffic Crash Reports from a third-party private vendor, when many of the reports were not then publicly available and bore the watermark “Unapproved Report.” They allegedly used these reports to solicit crash victims and direct them to the personal injury law firm operated by Franklin and Sitto, a chiropractic business operated by Daneshvar, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) businesses owned and operated by Angelo, Mann, and other conspirators. The indictment further alleges that from approximately August 2014 through February 2017, Franklin and Sitto delivered weekly payments to John Angelo for providing access to the fraudulently obtained crash reports and managing the solicitation of automobile crash victims.
From at least September 2010 through November 2016, John Angelo and Rosina Angelo also allegedly conspired to defraud the IRS’s efforts to assess taxes and to collect approximately $1.3 million in taxes and penalties due from John Angelo, by directing fees earned by John Angelo to a nominee entity. The indictment further alleges that John Angelo and Rosina Angelo assisted in the preparation of John Angelo’s false 2015, 2016, and 2018 individual income tax returns. Finally, the indictment alleges Mann assisted in the preparation of his own false 2018 individual tax return and a false 2018 entity tax return.
If convicted, the conspirators face a maximum sentence of twenty years for the conspiracy to commit wire fraud count. John Angelo and Rosina Angelo face a maximum sentence of five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the IRS. John Angelo, Rosina Angelo, and Mann face a maximum sentence of three years in prison for each count of aiding or assisting in the preparation of a false return. Each defendant also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation and the FBI, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Mark McDonald, Eric Schmale, and Christopher O’Donnell of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the Division’s website.