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19 November 2020
Western District of Washington receives funding to hire dedicated prosecutor to combat Cares Act Unemployment Insurance fraudRead the Press Release
Seattle — United States Attorney Brian T. Moran announced today that the Western District of Washington has been allocated funding to hire an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA), for a one-year term, who will focus on prosecuting cases involving fraudulent schemes to obtain unemployment insurance (UI) benefits and related offenses through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020.
The CARES Act allocated $270 billion for supplemental federal UI benefits. Additionally, President Trump directed that $44 billion in federal Disaster Relief Funds be used to provide supplemental UI benefits to eligible claimants. The substantial increase in funding for UI benefits spurred a dramatic spike in UI fraud across the country, resulting in the theft of federal funds intended to help those struggling with unemployment during the current pandemic and economic crisis.
“Federal law enforcement, and the attorneys in this office, acted quickly this spring to alert the state to significant fraud losses and got financial institutions to put a hold on suspicious payments,” said U.S. Attorney Moran. “We continue the work of identifying and ultimately prosecuting those who defrauded the system. These extra resources will keep that work moving as we untangle the complex layers of the fraud schemes.”
Last May, the U.S. Attorney’s Office noted that a diligent financial institution, with which agents were working, was able to prevent $120 million from being distributed to criminals. Agents assisted in freezing and recovering millions of additional dollars, with assistance from scores of other banks and credit unions. The Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, the Secret Service, the FBI, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General have all been working to trace the fraud, build criminal cases, and attempt to reclaim the criminal proceeds. The Washington Employment Security Department is cooperating in the investigation.
The U.S. Department of Justice, in close coordination with the U.S. Department of Labor and other federal agencies, created the U.S. Department of Justice National Unemployment Insurance Fraud Task Force. This task force is charged with investigating numerous CARES Act fraud schemes targeting the unemployment insurance programs of state workforce agencies and will work closely with United States Attorneys’ Offices to prosecute those individuals who have fraudulently diverted these funds from those struggling with unemployment.
The Department encourages the public to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline by phone at (1-866-720-5721) or via an online reporting form available at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/webform/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Warren County Businessman Arrested for Fraudulently Obtaining Nearly $2 Million in Loans Meant to Help Small Businesses During COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Warren County, New Jersey, businessman who fraudulently obtained nearly $2 million in federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans will make his initial court appearance today, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito and Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division announced.
Rocco A. Malanga, 37, of Hackettstown, New Jersey, is charged by criminal complaint with one count of wire fraud, two counts of bank fraud, and one count of money laundering. He made his initial appearance by videoconference today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Dickson and was released on $750,000 unsecured bond.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Malanga used a variety of false statements to fraudulently obtain approximately $1.8 million in federal COVID-19 emergency relief funds meant for distressed small businesses. Malanga submitted at least three PPP loan applications on behalf of three different business entities that fabricated their number of employees and average monthly payroll. He then diverted the PPP loan funds to accounts under the control of his relatives, including his minor children, and to another company that did not obtain a PPP loan.
In one instance, Malanga submitted a PPP loan application on behalf of one of his companies that had supporting documentation that claimed that the company had 47 employees, a monthly payroll of $324,081, and paid employees approximately $3.9 million in total compensation for 2019. Contrary to this documentation and these representations, IRS records showed that the company paid no salaries or wages in 2019.
Based on Malanga’s alleged misrepresentations, the three PPP loans were funded. As a result, Malanga received a total of nearly $1.8 million in federal COVID-19 emergency relief funds meant for distressed small businesses.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a federal law enacted March 29, 2020. It is designed to provide emergency financial assistance to millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act is the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the PPP. In April 2020, Congress authorized over $300 billion in additional PPP funding.
The PPP allows qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive loans with a maturity of two years and an interest rate of 1 percent. Businesses must use PPP loan proceeds for payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities. The PPP allows the interest and principal to be forgiven if businesses spend the proceeds on these expenses within a set time period and use at least a certain percentage of the loan towards payroll expenses.
The count of wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine; the two counts of bank fraud carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine; and the count of money laundering carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito and Acting Assistant Attorney General Rabbitt credited inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Acting Inspector in Charge Raimundo Marrero; and special agents of IRS – Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Montanez, with the investigation leading to the charges. They also thanked the Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection; the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Office of Inspector General; and the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Blake Coppotelli of the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorney Della Sentilles of the Fraud Section of the Department of Justice.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The charges and allegations in the complaint are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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's Office Closes Investigation into the Death of Deon KayRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia will not pursue federal criminal civil rights charges against the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer involved in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Deon Kay, the Office announced today.
Officials from the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section (PCCR) and MPD’s Internal Affairs Division (IAD) informed representatives of Mr. Kay’s family today of this determination. Based on the results of a thorough investigation, the U.S. Attorney’s Office cannot prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the MPD officer who shot Mr. Kay committed willful violations of the applicable federal criminal civil rights statute.
PCCR and IAD conducted a thorough review of Mr. Kay’s shooting, including examining: statements from officers and civilians on the scene; a voluntary statement from the officer who shot Mr. Kay; body worn camera (BWC) footage; radio transmissions; evidence collected from the incident scene and attendant results of forensic tests; and autopsy and toxicology reports. The review uncovered no evidence that would support a criminal prosecution.
The investigation determined that, on September 2, 2020, an MPD officer fatally shot Mr. Kay, an 18-year-old District resident, during an encounter in a small parking lot near 225 Orange Street, Southeast. According to information obtained during the investigation, the MPD officer and other officers reported to that location because they had obtained information that there were individuals there displaying firearms from inside a parked car. When the officers arrived, individuals inside the parked car exited and ran, including Mr. Kay. One officer encountered Mr. Kay and shot him in the chest. That officer’s BWC shows that Mr. Kay was holding a gun in his right hand and, in approximately the same instant that the officer fired, raised his right arm with the gun in his hand. Mr. Kay tossed the gun, which was found approximately 98 feet from where he was shot. The investigation did not determine whether Mr. Kay tossed the gun deliberately or in response to being shot at. MPD officers on scene administered emergency medical measures and Mr. Kay was transported to George Washington University Hospital, where he passed away approximately 45 minutes after the shooting. Another individual who was inside the parked car with Mr. Kay was found to be in possession of a gun.
The focus of the criminal investigation was to determine whether federal prosecutors could prove that the officer violated any federal or local laws, concentrating on the possible application of 18 U.S.C. § 242, a federal criminal civil rights statute. In order to establish a violation of this statute, prosecutors must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the officer acted willfully to deprive Mr. Kay of a right protected by the Constitution or other law, here the Fourth Amendment right not to be subjected to an unreasonable seizure. Prosecutors would have to prove not only that the officer used force that was constitutionally unreasonable, but that he did so “willfully,” which the Supreme Court has interpreted to mean he acted with a bad purpose to disregard the law. As this requirement has been interpreted by the courts, evidence that an officer acted out of fear, mistake, panic, misperception, negligence, or even poor judgment cannot establish the high level of intent required under Section 242.
The investigation revealed no evidence to establish beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer willfully committed a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 242. Specifically, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is unable to disprove a claim of self-defense or defense of others by the officer involved, who fired a single shot at Mr. Kay within one second of Mr. Kay holding a gun in his hand and raising his arm. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has therefore closed its investigation into this matter.
U.S. Attorney Scott Brady Establishes “Dick Thornburgh Award” to Recognize an Outstanding Federal Prosecutor in the Western District of PennsylvaniaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – United States Attorney Scott Brady of the Western District of Pennsylvania has established an annual award to recognize sustained outstanding performance by an Assistant United States Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s office.
"The Dick Thornburgh Award will be presented annually to an outstanding federal prosecutor in the Western District of Pennsylvania who exhibits the commitment to justice and the highest ethical standards that were embodied by General Thornburgh throughout his career," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "General Thornburgh casts a long shadow, and his impact on the US Attorney’s Office, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the Department of Justice and to our great Republic has been profound."
Mr. Thornburgh is a former Attorney General of the United States, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and Pennsylvania Governor.
"General Thornburgh’s legacy has been one not only of fierce intellect and love of justice, but also, like the Pittsburgher he is, an impact infused with his trademark integrity, grace and humility," U.S. Attorney Brady added. "Because of this great legacy, I thought it was important to honor him with an annual award for our top prosecutor."
The inaugural award was presented on November 5, 2020, at the Western Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Agency Directors’ (LEAD) 22nd Annual Awards Ceremony at Freedom Farms Event Center, in Valencia, Pennsylvania. Former Pennsylvania Governor and U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, Tom Corbett, presented the inaugural award to Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan T. Conway, Chief of the Major Crimes division.
U.S. Attorney General William Barr provided a videotaped statement of congratulations to AUSA Conway in which AG Barr recalled his work experiences with Dick Thornburgh, the first Attorney General for whom he worked. AG Barr recalled General Thornburgh as "substantive – a lawyer’s lawyer", "an outstanding leader" and "a man of unquestioned integrity and courage".
"Away from the Department, he was a model of personal decency and public service, contributing on issues ranging from international affairs to the rights of the disabled," AG Barr added. "He remains a generous, good-hearted man, and all those he touched along the way will be forever grateful.
John Thornburgh, a senior partner with WittKieffer, offered brief remarks on behalf of his father. "My father is truly honored by this recognition," he said. "He has a lifelong passion for the Department of Justice, and is thrilled to have his name associated with this annual award given for outstanding service in the U.S. Attorney's office where his career began."
"I am humbled and honored to be named the recipient of the inaugural Dick Thornburgh award. General Thornburgh has a long legacy of integrity and public service that we at the U.S. Attorney’s Office try to emulate," said AUSA Conway. "This award represents the hard work and dedication of many, including not only professionals in our office, but also our law enforcement partners who investigate the cases we prosecute. I am proud to represent them in accepting this prestigious award."
Dick Thornburgh was born on July 16, 1932 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Yale University in 1954 and earned his LL.B degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1957. Mr. Thornburgh also holds honorary degrees from 31 colleges and universities.
Following law school, Mr. Thornburgh worked in private industry until 1959 when he joined the Pittsburgh law firm then known as Kirkpatrick & Lockhart. In 1967, he was elected as a delegate to the Pennsylvania Constitutional Convention. From 1969 to 1975, Mr. Thornburgh was the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania and was appointed Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division in 1975, serving two years in Washington, D.C. in that role before returning to private practice as a partner at Kirkpatrick & Lockhart. Pennsylvania elected Mr. Thornburgh governor in 1979 and he served two terms. Mr. Thornburgh also taught courses at the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government and directed that school’s Institute of Politics from 1987 to 1988.
Appointed by President Reagan, Dick Thornburgh was sworn in as Attorney General on August 12, 1988. President George H.W. Bush reinstated him as Attorney General in 1989 and he served until 1991. In 1992, the American Legion honored Mr. Thornburgh with its highest award, the "Distinguished Services Medal." He published his autobiography in 2003 entitled, Where the Evidence Leads: The Autobiography of Dick Thornburgh.
U.S. Attorney Minkler recognizes current and former Kokomo Police OfficersRead the Press Release
Indianapolis – United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler was joined today by Kokomo Mayor Tyler Moore, Kokomo Police Chief Doug Stout, and DEA Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Michael Gannon, to recognize five current and former Kokomo Police Officers and their outstanding work with federal agents on dismantling a large drug ring in Kokomo.
“This was a complicated case with many moving parts,” said Minkler. “But the work of these outstanding officers paid off, and the streets of Kokomo are much safer because of it. Each of them worked hand in hand with our federal law enforcement partners to hold the accused accountable and provide justice to the citizens of Kokomo. It is a privilege for me to work daily with law enforcement officers and federal agents from across this great state. I see time and time again the dedication that officers, and their federal partners commit to the many cases that we prosecute. So, I am grateful that I can recognize their work today, and I encourage all citizens to recognize the efforts of our police officers, and to thank them whenever the opportunity presents itself.”
DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Michael Gannon said, “Operation Law and Order was a huge success and a big win for the fine citizens of Kokomo and the surrounding area. The exceptional investigative work done by the Kokomo Police Department, the United States Attorney’s Office, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, prevented a murder for hire plot and dismantled the most violent drug trafficking organization operating in Kokomo. Reggie Balentine, Michael Jones, Michael O’Bannon, Pierre Riley, and others utilized violence, fear and intimidation to fuel their illicit drug trafficking. Their lengthy prison sentences will allow the citizens of Kokomo to sleep better and puts all drug dealers on notice that DEA and their state, local and federal counterparts will utilize all resources available to hold violent offenders accountable.”
“Recognition for IRS Criminal Investigation’s work with the United States Attorney’s Office and our partner agencies to dismantle drug trafficking organizations only solidifies the importance of our work and these partnerships”, said Tamera Cantu, IRS-CI Acting Special Agent in Charge, Chicago Field Office. “IRS-CI was proud to contribute our financial expertise to this investigation which has had a direct impact on the safety of the Kokomo community.”
U.S. Attorney Minkler presented the Kokomo Police Department with a large engraved plaque with the officer’s names and their accomplishment. Each officer also received a United States Attorney Award certificate and an Officer Appreciation Certificate from the DEA.
Those honored today included:
- Captain Shane Melton, Kokomo Police Department
- Captain Austin McClain, Kokomo Police Department
- Lieutenant Zach Rodman, Kokomo Police Department
- Officer Derek Root, Fishers Police Department
- Cody Rayls
During the investigation, agents seized approximately 17 pounds of methamphetamine, 2 pounds of cocaine, 2 ounces of heroin, 122 grams of fentanyl, $37,000 in drug proceeds and 24 firearms. Throughout the conspiracy, many of the conspirators possessed firearms in relation to their drug trafficking activities, in order to protect themselves, their drugs, and their drug proceeds. Investigators were also able to arrest two hitmen that were hired by the organization to travel from Atlanta, Georgia to Kokomo to murder a Kokomo resident.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the Kokomo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Brady successfully prosecuted this case for the government.
The last defendant to be sentenced, Pierre Riley, 52, Macon, Georgia was sentenced on November 6th, 2020 to 490 months in federal prison and must serve five years supervised release after serving his prison sentence.
The other defendants and their sentences:
- Reggie M. Balentine,43, Kokomo, IN, 504 months federal prison
- Michael O’Bannon, 36, Kokomo, IN, 450 months federal prison
- Michael Jones, 38, 420 months federal prison
- Jason Reed, 46, Kokomo, IN, 420 months federal prison
- Shuan Myers, 38, Kokomo, IN 300 months federal prison
- Perry O. Jones, 45, Kokomo, IN, 260 months federal prison
- Derrick Owens, 39, Terre Haute, IN, 235 months federal prison
- Deshoun Everhart, 42, Warsaw, IN, 168 months federal prison
- Thomas Jones, 25 Kokomo, IN, 135 months federal prison
- Antwon Abbott, 41, Kokomo, IN, 121 months federal prison
- Kristin Kinney, 41, Kokomo, IN, 60 months federal prison
- Melissa Baird, 41, Kokomo, IN, 60 months federal prison
- Patricia Acord, 61, Kokomo, IN, 46 months federal prison
- Bradley Clark, 37, Kokomo, IN, 37 months federal prison
- Diondre Jones, 47, Indianapolis, IN, 177 months federal prison
This investigation was 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.
In October 2017, United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced a Strategic Plan designed to shape and strengthen the District’s response to its most significant public safety challenges. This prosecution sentencing demonstrates the office’s firm commitment to target, investigate, and prosecute organizations that distribute methamphetamine and or heroin. (See United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana Strategic Plan Sections 3.1 and 3.3)
Two Ohio Residents Sentenced for Their Roles in Gun Trafficking Conspiracy That Brought More Than 100 Illegal Guns to the Streets of BuffaloRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today Deonte Cooper 25, of Ashtabula, Ohio, who was convicted of conspiring to traffic firearms from Ohio to Buffalo following a three week jury trial, was sentenced to serve 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles J. Volkert and Joshua A. Violanti, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that during the course of the conspiracy, Cooper, who also sold heroin, recruited heroin customers to make straw purchases of more than 100 firearms. The purchases were made at gun shows and gun stores in Ohio. The firearms were then transported to Buffalo, where they were sold to local drug dealers, including co-defendant Titus Thompson, who was also convicted at trial with Cooper.
Defendant Thompson is awaiting sentencing. Six other defendants were also charged and previously convicted in this case, including Koree Runyan. Runyan, 26, of Ashtabula, Ohio, was also sentenced today by Judge Wolford for her role in the conspiracy to time served and two years supervised release. Runyan purchased firearms in Ohio in her own name, which were then transported into the Buffalo area.
The sentencings are 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, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood.
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Two More Rollin'40s Crips Gang Members Sentenced to Lengthy Prison TermsRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – November 19, 2020 – Two additional members of the Rollin’ 40s Crips Gang were sentenced to federal prison this week for drug distribution and firearms charges, announced U.S. Attorney Don Cochran for the Middle District of Tennessee.
Ricky Brown, 44, of Nashville, was sentenced yesterday to 12 years in federal prison for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and possessing cocaine with intent to distribute with 1,000 feet of a college. Brown was indicted in August 2018, after providing firearms to a confidential informant on two occasions in May and June 2018, while on parole. During a subsequent parole search of Brown’s residence, where children resided and near MeHarry Medical College, law enforcement officers found more than 370 grams of cocaine, digital scales and cash and marijuana. In May 2020, Brown pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine with intent to distribute.
Deandre Bridges, 32, also of Nashville, was sentenced on Monday to nine years in prison for possession and distribution of cocaine. Bridges was indicted in August 2018, after being arrested by officers with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (MNPD) in February 2018 after he was found to be a passenger in a car stopped for a traffic violation. Bridges attempted to flee but was apprehended by MNPD officers. Officers found distribution amounts of heroin, cocaine and marijuana in the car where Bridges was seated and also found hydroxycodone and oxycodone pills, cash and digital scales. Bridges had earlier sold 24 grams of crack cocaine to a confidential informant in November 2017. He pleaded guilty in June 2020.
These follow Friday’s sentencing of Lorenzo Shelton, 38, who was sentenced to 30 years in prison. Shelton was convicted in September 2019, after a four-day jury trial, of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin; possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Shelton committed these crimes while on parole for previous drug trafficking convictions.
Since 2019, the U.S. Attorney’s office and federal, state and local law enforcement has charged 17 members of the Rollin’ 40s Crips Gang, 15 of which either have been sentenced or are awaiting sentencing.
These investigations were conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department and the Tennessee Department of Correction. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ahmed Safeeullah prosecuted the cases against Brown and Bridges. Additional prosecutions of Rollin’40s Gang members have been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brooke K. Schiferle, Sunny A.M. Koshy, Miller Bushong, Robert McGuire, Josh Kurtzman, Robert Levine and Ben Schrader.
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Two Detroit-Area Men Sentenced for Crack Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – Quincy George, 36, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced on November 16, 2020, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Greeneville to 18 years in federal prison by the Honorable J. Ronnie Greer. This sentence follows George’s conviction on July 29, 2020, for his participation in a conspiracy to distribute more than 280 grams of cocaine base or crack. Once released from prison, George will be on supervised release for a 5-year period.
A co-defendant, Larry Walker, 22, of Harrison Charter Township, Michigan, entered a plea on June 10, 2020, to conspiracy to distribute more than 280 grams of cocaine base or crack. On November 12, 2020, Walker was sentenced to 87 months in prison. Walker will also be on supervised release for 5 years following his release.
The investigation began in April 2019, when the Kingsport Police Department (KPD) and an agent from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) identified George and Walker as sources of crack cocaine in Sullivan County, Tennessee. Law enforcement made several controlled purchases of narcotics from George and Walker. In August 2020, during a traffic stop by the Tennessee Highway Patrol, in which George was the driver of the car, KPD, ATF, the Vice and Narcotics Unit of the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office, and the DEA recovered nearly 90 grams of fentanyl-laced heroin, approximately 372 grams of powder cocaine, 374 oxycodone pills, and a small amount of marijuana, in a vacuum sealed container, hidden in a compartment of the dashboard.
“We have seen a large increase in the flow of dangerous narcotics out of Detroit into all parts of the Eastern District of Tennessee. The United States Attorney’s Office will continue its efforts to shut down this pipeline by vigorously prosecuting narcotics traffickers such as George and Walker,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey. “The message is simple, wherever you’re from, you won’t be returning home until you’ve served a long stint in a federal prison.”
ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge, Toby Taylor stated, “The partnerships with the public safety departments and the U.S. Attorney’s office were crucial in reducing the potential for violent crime in this case.”
“The Kingsport Police Department appreciates the collaborative team effort that went into this investigation that resulted in these charges. Our department will continue to take drugs off our streets, especially individuals involved in large-scale drug distributions,” said Chief David Quillin, Kingsport Police Department.
The case was investigated by the Kingsport Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Martin represented the United States in court.
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Two Aliens Indicted on Illegal Reentry Charges, Visa Fraud and False Representation of a Social Security Account NumberRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A federal grand jury returned indictments yesterday charging Reymundo Camero-Castaneda, age 32, of Mexico and Elmer Antonio Murillo-Villatoro, age 42, of El Salvador, with illegal reentry charges, visa fraud and false representation of a social security account number.
If convicted of illegal reentry, Camero-Castaneda, previously deported three times and found in Wake County, would face a maximum imprisonment term of not more than two years, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
Murillo-Villatoro, previously deported five times and found in Wake County, is alleged to have been previously removed subsequent to a felony conviction (assault inflicting serious bodily injury), visa fraud and false representation of a social security number. Therefore, if convicted, he would face a maximum imprisonment term of not more than 50 years, a $750,000 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.
Twenty-Five Defendants Charged in Joint Federal and State Investigation of Drug and Firearms Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa -- Twenty-five defendants are facing federal criminal charges as part of a joint federal and state investigation of a methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana drug trafficking organization. Most of these defendants were arrested on November 18, 2020, during the execution of 45 federal search warrants in and around Des Moines. Those warrants resulted in the seizure of 37 firearms, three pounds of cocaine, one ounce of methamphetamine, 18 pounds of marijuana, 1.5 ounces of heroin and approximately $50,000 in cash.
The defendants are charged across three criminal indictments and eight criminal complaints with federal drug or firearms offenses:
- Jerome Valentino Wilson, 32, of Des Moines
- Derek Shantell Thompson, 41, of Des Moines
- Kenee L. Triplett, 39, of Des Moines
- Cory Andrew Turner, 33, of Des Moines
- Coty Arnez Turner, 31, of Des Moines
- Daryl Stephen Jones, Jr., 45, of Des Moines
- Jerome Jamar Hall, 35, of Des Moines
- Ornandes Raeshon Bennett, 41, of Des Moines
- Antoine Moishawn Williams, 49, of Des Moines
- Dewayne Allen Haynes, 40, of Des Moines
- Marcus Antonio-Shay Hall, 25, of Des Moines
- Kenny Eugene Smart, Jr., 47, of Des Moines
- Michael Lindell Teasley, 32, of Des Moines
- Jerron Tandre Johnson, 30, of Des Moines
- Nolan Hamilton-Allen, 32, of Des Moines
- Richard Lee David Brown, 45, of Des Moines
- Anthony Levon Robinson, Jr., 35, of Des Moines
- Leon Dale Edwards, 36, of Des Moines,
- Leroy Williams II, 50, of Des Moines
- Terry Eugene Hambrick, 40, of Des Moines
- Damir Halkic, 32, of Urbandale
- Keiffer Michael Simmons, 28, of Des Moines
- William Lloydellton Speed, Jr., 27, of Des Moines
- Amanda Raye Reed, 40, of Des Moines
- Tyler James Althaus, 34, of Des Moines
Many of the charged defendants, including Jerome Valentino Wilson, Derek Shantell Thompson, Cory Andrew Turner, Coty Arnez Turner, Daryl Stephen Jones, Jr., Jerome Jamar Hall, Ornandes Raeshon Bennett, Michael Lindell Teasley, Kenny Smart, Jr., among others, have prior felony drug convictions. Kenny Smart, Jr., Michael Lindell Teasley, and Jerron Tandre Johnson, each presently charged with possessing a firearm as a felon, have prior convictions for possessing a firearm as a felon. On November 18, 2020, Jerron Tandre Johnson was arrested on charges of attempted murder, filed in the Iowa District Court for Polk County.
United States Attorney Krickbaum stated, “These arrests had a specific target: those accused of carrying guns, slinging drugs, and endangering our community. We look forward to proving these charges in federal court. And we are grateful to our law enforcement partners, who took almost 40 guns and many pounds of drugs off the streets of Des Moines.”
“ATF has no higher priority than investigating violent crime and ensuring that those who use firearms in furtherance of their criminal activities are held accountable. This investigation demonstrates ATF’s commitment and the commitment of our law enforcement partners to ensure that the Des Moines communities remain a safe place to live, work and raise families. Utilizing firearms to injure or intimidate others cannot be tolerated and there is no question that Des Moines is safer today because of the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of all of the agencies that played a part in this investigation,” said James Ferguson, Acting Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Kansas City Field Division.
Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert added, “The size and magnitude of this operation speaks for itself, but the most important aspect is the impact it will have on violent crime and the distribution of illegal drugs in our community. This will absolutely move the needle in terms of restoring the safe environment that our citizens deserve and affirms the commitment to use all available resources to preserve this expectation. This was truly a team effort, and we can’t thank our Local, County, State and Federal partners enough for their unwavering dedication and commitment to ensuring that our most dangerous criminals are held accountable for selfishly and intentionally compromising the safety and security of the wonderful people that call this region ‘home.’ Our commitment to serve extends beyond jurisdictional lines, and our collective efforts will be on- going.”
All defendants arrested on November 18 have or will soon appear in federal or state court on the charges. The charges carry maximum penalties of five years to life imprisonment. If convicted, the Court must impose reasonable sentences under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The charges were announced by Marc Krickbaum, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa; James Ferguson, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the Kansas City Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and Dana Wingert, Chief of Police of the Des Moines Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Mikaela Shotwell and MacKenzie Benson Tubbs represent the government.
The public is reminded that charges contain only accusations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Investigating and assisting agencies include: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Des Moines Police Department (DMPD); Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement (DNE); Iowa State Patrol (ISP); Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force (MINE); Tri-County Task Force; Central Iowa Drug Task Force (CIDTF); Mid-Iowa Drug Task Force (MIDTF); Iowa Department of Criminal Investigation (DCI); Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI); Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Altoona Police Department; West Des Moines Police Department; Urbandale Police Department; Marshalltown Police Department; Polk County Sheriff’s Office; Dallas County Sheriff’s Office; and Iowa State Fire Marshal. This is an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces investigation.
Tuckahoe Tutor Charged with Sexual Exploitation of A 7-Year-Old Minor and Transporting Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the arrest of JOHN MUESER. MUESER, 69, is charged with sexual exploitation of a 7-year-old minor and with transporting child pornography from Fairfield County, Connecticut to Westchester County, New York. MUESER was arrested this morning and is expected to be presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith C. McCarthy in White Plains federal court.
Acting U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said: “John Meuser allegedly used his position of trust as a tutor to engage in unspeakable acts with a 7-year-old child. Alleged conduct such as Meuser’s can inflict long-lasting negative effects on victims which no child should ever endure. Meuser now faces federal charges and substantial prison time for his craven conduct, as alleged. I thank the FBI for their assistance in this case and urge anyone with knowledge of child sexual abuse to call 1-800-CALL-FBI.”
FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “Announcements of charges like those we bring today should make anyone’s stomach turn. Mueser allegedly induced his seven-year-old tutoring student to engage in sexually-explicit conduct and recorded it on his phone. Mueser's conduct should shock the community into action to help others. The FBI will never waver in its commitment to protect our society's most vulnerable citizens, but we are all better working together as we try to protect our children. We believe there may be more victims in this case, and we need your help. We implore parents or family members of potential victims to contact us at 1-800-CALL-FBI.”
According to the Complaint[1] filed on November 17, 2020, and unsealed today in White Plains federal court:
On May 1, 2019, JOHN MUESER induced a 7-year-old minor, whom he was tutoring, to engage in sexually explicit conduct, used his iPhone to record the activity and then transported the images from Fairfield County, Connecticut to Westchester County, New York.
On October 1, 2019, JOHN MUESER transported child pornography maintained on his iPhone from Westchester County, New York to Fairfield County, Connecticut.
On or about March 19, 2020, JOHN MUESER was charged in Connecticut with Possession of Child Pornography, Risk of Injury to a Minor, Sexual Assault 4th, and Voyerism.
There may be more victims of this alleged conduct. If you have information to report, contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
* * *
MUESER, 69, of Tuckahoe, New York, is charged with one count of sexual exploitation, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, and one count of transportation of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The statutory maximum sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Ms. Strauss praised the efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in connection with this investigation. She added that the investigation is ongoing.
The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant United States Attorney Marcia S. Cohen is in charge of the prosecution.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Tohono O'odham Man Sentenced to 52 Months for Domestic Violence AssaultRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – On Monday, Rogelio Salazar Gastelum, Jr., 54, of Sells, Arizona, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Cindy K. Jorgenson to 52 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Gastelum previously pleaded guilty to Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.
On June 23, 2017, at a location on the Tohono O’odham Nation, Gastelum stabbed another person with whom he was in a domestic relationship. The victim was airlifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Gastelum is an enrolled member of the Tohono O’odham Nation.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tohono O’odham Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Micah Schmit, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-18-0395-TUC-CKJ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2020-105_Gastelum# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Three Mid-State Men Indicted on Drug Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – November 19, 2020 – Three Nashville men indicted in February as part of a deadly heroin and fentanyl distribution network have now been taken into federal custody as the remaining two made initial appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge earlier today, announced U.S. Attorney Don Cochran for the Middle District of Tennessee.
Marquel Peoples, aka Worm, 25, and Christopher Johnson, 27, both of Nashville, were charged in a 15-count indictment with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil; and various counts of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin and fentanyl. Peoples and Johnson are each charged with being responsible for the distribution of more than 400 grams of fentanyl, and both are also charged with possessing firearms in furtherance of drug crimes. The indictment also alleges that the fentanyl distributed by Peoples resulted in serious bodily injury to others and resulted in the death of one individual.
Blaine Ellis, 31, of Lavergne, Tennessee was also charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl. Peoples and Ellis appeared in front of United States Magistrate Judge Barbara D. Holmes earlier today. Johnson appeared before a U.S. Magistrate Judge earlier this year and was released with conditions, pending trial.
“The forgotten pandemic is that an alarming number of people continue to overdose and die from these deadly drugs,” said U.S. Attorney Cochran. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue alongside our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who contribute to this deadly addiction crisis.”
“This case should serve as a warning to anyone who seeks to destroy our communities by peddling poison and preying on those who are struggling with the disease of addiction,” said Special Agent in Charge Todd Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Division, which includes Tennessee, Kentucky, and West Virginia. “Together with our law enforcement partners, DEA will continue to hunt you down and work tirelessly to bring you to justice.”
According to documents filed with the Court, in the summer of 2019, law enforcement became aware of reports of blue-tinted drugs, which were causing overdoses in the middle Tennessee area. Through a series of investigative efforts, law enforcement acquired blue-tinted drugs from Peoples, Johnson, and Ellis and subsequent testing determined that those drugs contained heroin and fentanyl. During one operation, Peoples claimed responsibility for the blue drugs, saying “if you got the blue stuff … [you] got it from us.” The investigation linked a fatal overdose in March 2019 to the signature blue heroin.
If convicted, Peoples faces a minimum of 25 years and up to life in prison; Johnson faces a minimum of 15 years and up to life in prison; and Ellis faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Nashville District Office Tactical Diversion Squad; the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Opioid/Overdose Task Force; the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department SID Gang Unit; the Lavergne Police Department; the Murfreesboro Police Department; and the Rutherford County Sherriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda J. Klopf is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Three City of Philadelphia Revenue Department Employees Charged with Soliciting and Accepting BribesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that three City of Philadelphia employees who worked in the Revenue Department were charged with soliciting and accepting bribes in connection with their employment. All three were charged with one count of federal program bribery.
Jarredd McQueen, 50, of Philadelphia, PA, was charged by Information. He was employed as a Customer Collection Representative for the City of Philadelphia’s Revenue Department when he allegedly accepted $9,000 of bribes in connection with his work. McQueen’s alleged criminal conduct began in May of 2018 and ended in November of 2018. He resigned from his employment on July 17, 2020.
Demarys Natal, 56, of Philadelphia, PA, was also charged by Information. She was employed as a Customer Collection Representative for the City of Philadelphia’s Revenue Department when she allegedly accepted $26,600 of bribes in connection with her work. Natal’s alleged criminal conduct began in February of 2018 and ended in September of 2019. She resigned from her employment on November 5, 2019.
Nicole Mixon, 44, of Philadelphia, PA, was charged by Indictment. She was also employed as a Customer Collection Representative for the City of Philadelphia’s Revenue Department when she allegedly accepted $22,300 of bribes in connection with her work. Mixon’s alleged criminal conduct began in November of 2019 and ended in March of 2020. She resigned from her employment yesterday.
As Revenue Department employees, McQueen and Mixon accessed the Taxpayer Information Payment System (“TIPS”), a computer system the City of Philadelphia uses to track the status of various financial obligations. The financial obligations include real estate taxes, refuse (i.e., trash) fees, and small business fees, that are owed to the City by property owners. McQueen and Mixon used TIPS to adjust the outstanding balances on various types of taxes and/or fees for a particular property after meeting with taxpayers about money they owed to the City.
McQueen and Mixon allegedly used their official positions collecting monies owed to the City as an opportunity to enrich themselves, while depriving the City of money owed to it by certain taxpayers. For example, the Information against McQueen alleges that he erased a $5,644.88 trash fee in exchange for a $1,500 cash bribe paid by an individual cooperating with the FBI. The Indictment against Mixon alleges that she erased a $1,210 trash fee in exchange for a $800 cash bribe paid by an individual cooperating with the FBI.
As an employee of the Revenue Department working in the Major Tax Unit, Natal collected delinquent business tax payments on Philadelphia properties. The collection efforts required Natal to meet and correspond with taxpayers about their outstanding debts. Natal allegedly used her official position collecting monies owed to the City as an opportunity to enrich herself, while depriving the City of money owed to it by certain taxpayers.
For example, the Information alleges that Natal told a taxpayer to bring two $500 postal money orders to the Municipal Services Building to satisfy the judgment for unpaid business taxes. Natal instructed the taxpayer to leave the payee section of the money orders blank. She later sent a text message instructing the taxpayer to “to leave them blank there [sic] doing us a personal favor so u can get ur $$$ instead of city.” An individual cooperating with the FBI presented Natal with two $500 money orders with the payee section blank, and in return, Natal allegedly erased $10,000 in fees associated with business taxes on a Philadelphia property. Natal deposited the $500 money orders into her bank account with the memo section reading “Repair/Remodeling” and “Flooring.”
“Bribes and corruption must have no place in Philadelphia’s municipal government,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “Corruption is an insidious disease that destroys the public’s confidence in its government, which is why we at the U.S. Attorney’s Office are so determined to root it out. Here, these three Revenue Department employees will now face the consequences of their alleged brazen and illegal acts.”
“When municipal employees decide to take bribes, they’re openly putting their own interests above those of the city they serve,” said Michael J. Driscoll, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “The defendants’ alleged actions benefitted themselves and those who paid them off, at the expense of Philadelphia’s revenues and its residents. The FBI will continue to aggressively investigate allegations of public corruption, and work with our partners to ensure that those who violate their obligation to the public are held fully accountable.”
“I want to thank our federal partners for working with us from start to finish on this investigation. Public service demands integrity and honesty and together we send a strong message that there is no place for City employees who are unable to meet this standard,” said City of Philadelphia Inspector General Alexander DeSantis.
If convicted, McQueen, Natal, and Mixon each face a maximum possible sentence of 10 years in prison.
All three cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Philadelphia Office of the Inspector General, and are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jason P. Bologna.
An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The Department of Justice Files Brief Defending the Constitutionality of Idaho's Fairness in Women's Sports ActRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today filed a friend-of-the-court brief in the Ninth Circuit federal appeals court defending Idaho’s Fairness in Women’s Sports Act against a challenge under the U.S. Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause.
“The Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution provides that no State shall ‘deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.’ Idaho’s Fairness in Women’s Sports Act complies fully with the U.S. Constitution because it protects all persons equally,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “The Constitution does not require States to abandon their efforts to provide biological girls and women with equal opportunity to participate in and enjoy the life-long benefits that flow from interscholastic athletics. The Fairness in Women’s Sports Act protects equal athletic opportunities for girls and women and permits all persons fairly to participate in sports.”
On Aug. 17, 2020, an Idaho federal district court preliminarily enjoined the Fairness Act, finding that Act discriminated against some transgender athletes. The injunction requires Idaho to allow biological males, who gender identify as female, to play in sports designated only for biological females.
On appeal, the United States’ friend-of-the-court brief explains that the Fairness Act serves the important purpose of preserving equal athletic opportunities for women. The Constitution allows states like Idaho to separate sports by biological sex because females and males have innate physiological differences that directly affect athletics. Ignoring these biological differences in sports would result in females unfairly being displaced by males. The Equal Protection Clause allows Idaho to limit its female athletic teams to biological females to keep a level playing field and preserve women’s equal opportunity to participate in sports. Idaho does not need to abandon this important equality goal and provide the special treatment the district court ordered for some biological males who are allowed to compete against biological females if and only if the biological males are transgender. The Constitution does not require the resulting harm to female equality in athletics.
On March 30, 2020, Idaho enacted the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act Fairness Act, which went into effect in July 2020. Idaho’s Fairness Act contains two main provisions. First, covered athletic teams “shall be expressly designated as one (1) of the following based on biological sex: (a) Males, men, or boys; (b) Females, women, or girls; or (c) Coed or mixed.” Second, “[a]thletic teams or sports designated for females, women, or girls shall not be open to students of the male sex.” The Fairness Act does not contain a comparable limitation for biological females who wish to participate on a team designated for biological males.
In enacting the Fairness Act, Idaho determined that “[h]aving separate sex specific teams furthers efforts to promote sex equality. Sex-specific teams accomplish this by providing opportunities for female athletes to demonstrate their skill, strength, and athletic abilities while also providing them with opportunities to obtain recognition and accolades, college scholarships, and the numerous other long-term benefits that flow from success in athletic endeavors.” In support of this conclusion, the Fairness Act cites authority establishing that inherent physiological differences between men and women generally include a difference in “strength, speed, and endurance” that results in “different athletic capabilities,” which generally give men a significant advantage in head-to-head competition. Id.
Two Columbians Sentenced for Smuggling 1,535 Kilograms of Cocaine Onboard a Semi-Submersible VesselRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Columbian natives Freddy Montano Paz, 30, and Mariano Abregon, 33, were both sentenced before District Judge Robert A. Molloy to 60 months of incarceration on their convictions on conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 1,535 kilograms, United States Attorney Gretchen Shappert announced today. Judge Molloy also sentenced Montano Paz and Abregon to five years of supervised release, removal from the United States after serving their sentences, and $100 each for special assessments.
According to court records, on May 10, 2019, the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter HAMILTON sighted a self-propelled, semi-submersible vessel in international waters approximately 250 nautical miles Northwest of Esmeraldas, Ecuador. The semi-submercible was navigating on a westerly course in a known drug smuggling area, and displayed no indicia of nationality nor markings, or navigation lights. More than eighty (80%) percent of the vessel was under the waterline. As they approached the semi-submersible, U.S. Coast Guard crew members observed its occupants throwing objects overboard. Four individuals onboard the semi-submersible were later identified as Freddy Montano Paz, Mariano Abregon, Calixto Tumbaco, and Hector Hernandez Saucedo. After recovering the jettisoned packages, U.S. Coast Guard crew members conducted an inspection of the vessel and recovered 40 bales which contained 1,535 kilograms of cocaine. Both Montano Paz and Abregon pleaded guilty to the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Coast Guard and DEA, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Delia L. Smith.
Staples Man Pleads Guilty to Minneapolis Police Third Precinct ArsonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the guilty plea of BRYCE MICHAEL WILLIAMS, 26, to one count of conspiracy to commit arson at the Minneapolis Police Department’s Third Precinct. WILLIAMS, who was initially charged via criminal complaint on June 16, 2020, and indicted on August 25, 2020, entered his guilty plea today before Judge Patrick J. Schiltz in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed with the court, on the night of May 28, 2020, WILLIAMS went to the Third Precinct where a crowd of hundreds had gathered. At one point, the crowd began shouting, “Burn it down, burn it down.” Soon after, a fence that was designed to keep trespassers out of the Third Precinct building was torn down. WILLIAMS, along with other co-conspirators, breached the fence and entered the Third Precinct building.
Surveillance video footage from the Third Precinct showed WILLIAMS, wearing a mask, a baseball cap, and a hooded sweatshirt, standing near the entrance of the Third Precinct holding a Molotov cocktail while other co-conspirators lit the wick. The Molotov cocktail was taken into the Third Precinct by a co-conspirator and was used to start a fire. WILLIAMS later threw a box on an existing fire located just outside the Third Precinct entrance.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted jointly by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department, the Staples Police Department, the Todd County Sheriff’s Office, the Minnesota State Patrol, the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force, and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal Division.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Harry M. Jacobs and David P. Steinkamp.
Defendant Information:
BRYCE MICHAEL WILLIAMS, 26
Staples, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to commit arson, 1 count
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Stanly County Opioid Distributor Sentenced to 25 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – An Albemarle man was sentenced to federal prison Tuesday for charges involving heroin and fentanyl distribution, announced Matthew G.T. Martin, United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina.
ZANNIE JAY LOTHARP, 35, was found guilty by a jury on March 11, 2020, of one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl, and one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin. On November 19, 2020, LOTHARP was sentenced by United States District Judge Thomas D. Schroeder to a total of 300 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
Evidence introduced at trial showed that LOTHARP and another person used two Stanly County residences on the same street for opioid distribution activity. The narcotics were kept at one house and sold from another house on Washington Lane in Albemarle. After a state search warrant was executed on October 19, 2018, for both Washington Lane locations, LOTHARP was arrested by state authorities but released on bond. Following his release, LOTHARP again sold heroin on January 15, 2019.
“This sentence sends a clear message: dealing opioids does not pay. We are working hard to address the opioid epidemic,” said U.S. Attorney Matt Martin. “Stanly County is now a safer place, thanks to the fine work of the law enforcement and prosecutors involved in this case.”
A co-defendant, Shonteya Christina Harris, age 34, from Albemarle, North Carolina, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl and was sentenced on October 19, 2020, to 40 months imprisonment and a three year term of supervised release.
This case was investigated by the Albemarle Police Department, Stanly County Sheriff's Office, Oakboro Police Department, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Homeland Security. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole R. DuPré and Tanner Kroeger for the Middle District of North Carolina.
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.
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Stanislaus County Man Charged with Cyberstalking Airbnb GuestRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. – A federal grand jury has returned a one-count indictment against Kevin James Strutz, 49, of Ceres, charging him with cyberstalking, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced today.
According to court documents, Strutz secretly made a video recording of an adult female who stayed at the residence where Strutz was living in Ceres in February 2020. The victim ended her stay at the residence when she discovered a message on a cellphone that Strutz had left in a shared bathroom. Over the next several months, Strutz continued to contact the victim through Facebook accounts, one of which used a false identity. The messages became increasingly aggressive and one included an image of the victim exiting a shower that had been taken without her knowledge or consent at the Airbnb residence. Strutz sent the image to her with a demand that she send him a sexually explicit video or he would send the photo to her friends and family.
Law enforcement has learned that Strutz may have victimized more than one person. Anyone with additional information or who believes that they might be a victim can contact the FBI at tips.fbi.gov.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Ceres Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David L. Gappa is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Strutz faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Somerset Man Sentenced to 408 Months for the Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. – A Somerset, Kentucky man, Bradley D. Hall, 38, was sentenced to 408 months in federal prison on Thursday, before U.S. District Court Judge Claria Horn Boom, after being convicted of two counts of production of child pornography.
According to his plea agreement, on September 15, 2019, Hall engaged in a conversation with an undercover FBI employee, using the Kik messenger application. Hall admitted to operating a Kik messenger group that focused on child exploitation, and to recording, live streaming, and sending videos of child pornography to the undercover FBI employee.
Hall pleaded guilty in June 2020.
Under federal law, Hall must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for ten years, following his release.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna Reed.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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.
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Somerset Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. – A London man, Andrew Dick, 29, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison on Thursday, before U.S. District Court Judge Claria Horn Boom, for possession of child pornography.
According to his plea agreement, on March 28, 2019, Dick admitted to possessing sexually explicit images of nude prepubescent minors on his computer devices. He also acknowledged that he downloaded child pornography images from particular website, via the Internet, and that he possessed explicit images of minors that appeared to be as young as six years old.
Dick had previously been convicted, in a military court martial, in February 2013, of wrongful possession of child pornography and wrongful receipt of child pornography.
Dick pleaded guilty the federal charges in July 2020.
Under federal law, Dick must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10years, following his release.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna Reed.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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.
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Sinaloa Cartel Drug Trafficker Extradited from ItalyRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – November 19, 2020
SAN DIEGO – Ramon Santoyo-Cristobal, aka Dr. Wagner, a former Mexican Federal Police officer and alleged Sinaloa Cartel drug trafficker, was extradited to the United States from Italy yesterday.
On August 19, 2016, a federal grand jury sitting in the Southern District of California returned an indictment charging Santoyo-Cristobal with participating in a long-running worldwide conspiracy to traffic substantial quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin from Mexico into the United States, as well as laundering millions of dollars in drug proceeds.
A fugitive for almost three years, Santoyo-Cristobal was apprehended by Italian authorities in August 2019 while visiting Rome. Santoyo-Cristobal contested extradition in the Italian courts, but in July 2020, the Supreme Court of Cassation rejected his arguments, and the following month the Ministry of Justice authorized his extradition to the United States. He arrived in San Diego on November 18, 2020, and made his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew Schopler. He is scheduled for a detention hearing before Judge Schopler on November 24, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.
“This extradition ruling by the Italian courts demonstrates that those who violate U.S. laws and seek to evade justice will find no place to hide,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer. “The Department of Justice appreciates the cooperation of the Italian authorities in this matter. With the assistance of our law enforcement colleagues at home and around the world, we will aggressively pursue every avenue available in bringing drug traffickers to justice.” Brewer praised prosecutor Matthew J. Sutton and DEA agents for their excellent work on this case.
“DEA and our law enforcement partners will continue to use all available resources to bring drug traffickers to justice,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge John W. Callery. “This extradition should serve as a warning to other members of the Sinaloa Cartel: we will find you no matter where in the world you try to hide and we will bring you back to the United States for prosecution.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California and the Drug Enforcement Administration led the United States’ extradition effort. The Justice Department extends its gratitude to the Italian Ministry of Justice, and prosecutorial and law enforcement authorities for making the extradition possible. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the defendant’s extradition from Italy. The U.S. Marshals Service assisted in bringing the defendant back to the United States.
This case is part of a five-year investigation led by the Southern District of California, that, in total, has resulted in charges against over 125 people and has had a significant impact on the worldwide operations of the Sinaloa Cartel. This investigation has also offered one of the most comprehensive views to date of the inner workings of one of the world’s most prolific, violent and powerful drug cartels. Cartel members and associates were targeted in this massive investigation involving multiple countries, numerous law enforcement agencies around the United States, a number of federal districts and over 250 court-authorized wiretaps in this district alone.
This prosecution is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations.
The United States is represented in court by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. Sutton.
The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Defendant Information
Defendant Number: 4 Criminal Case No: 16-cr-1896-DMS
Name: Ramon Santoyo-Cristobal, aka Dr. Wagner
Age: 44
Hometown: Mexico City, Mexico
Summary Of Charges
Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances for Purpose of Unlawful Importation, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 959, 960 and 963. Term of custody including a mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life imprisonment, $10 million fine.
Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 952, 960 and 963. Term of custody including a mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life imprisonment, $10 million fine.
Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. 1956(h). Term of custody up to 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the monetary instrument or funds involved.
AGENCIES
Drug Enforcement Administration
Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations Customs and Border Protection, Office of Border Patrol United States Marshals Service
Internal Revenue Service
Department of Justice, Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces Department of Justice, Office of Enforcement Operations
Department of Justice, Office of International Affairs
Seven MS-13 Gang Members Indicted in Violent Crime and Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Nashville, Tennessee, returned a 16-count superseding indictment Wednesday, charging seven MS-13 gang members with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana and serious firearm-related offenses, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Don Cochran for the Middle District of Tennessee.
Those charged include Carlos Ochoa-Martinez, 31, aka “El Serio,” Jason Sandoval, 35, aka “Bin Laden,” Jorge Flores, 28, aka “Peluche,” all of Nashville; Jose Pineda-Caceres, 22, aka “Demente,” and Franklin Hernandez, 21, aka “Happy,” both of Honduras; Gerson Serrano-Ramirez, 33, aka “Frijole,” of El Salvador and Juan Melendez,” aka “Shaggy,” of Lebanon, Tennessee.
The indictment alleges that beginning in 2014 and continuing until yesterday, the defendants conspired with each other to obtain bulk quantities of marijuana and cocaine for redistribution in and around middle Tennessee. Once the drugs were received, the defendants would reduce them into smaller quantities and sell them in and around nightclubs in Nashville and from the parking lots and restrooms of these establishments. In order to maximize drug distribution in these nightclubs, the defendants would threaten rival and competing drug dealers who sold and attempted to sell cocaine and marijuana in the nightclubs.
In order to protect their drugs, territory and proceeds, the defendants would acquire, carry and discharge firearms. To maintain and extend control over their drug distribution, the defendants would commit acts involving murder, intimidation and assault against individuals who jeopardized its operations, including rival drug dealers.
All defendants are in custody and will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at a later date.
This investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Trial Attorney Matthew Hoff of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime & Gang Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ahmed Safeeullah are prosecuting this case.
An indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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.
Seven MS-13 Gang Members Indicted in Violent Crime and Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – November 19, 2020 – A federal grand jury in Nashville returned a 16-count superseding indictment yesterday, charging seven MS-13 Gang members with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana and serious firearm-related offenses, announced U.S. Attorney Don Cochran for the Middle District of Tennessee and Brian C. Rabbitt, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice.
Those charged are: Carlos Ochoa-Martinez, 31, aka “El Serio,” Jason Sandoval, 35, aka “Bin Laden,” Jorge Flores, 28, aka “Peluche,” all of Nashville; Jose Pineda-Caceres, 22, aka “Demente,” and Franklin Hernandez, 21, aka “Happy,” both of Honduras; Gerson Serrano-Ramirez, 33, aka “Frijole,” of El Salvador and Juan Melendez,” aka “Shaggy,” of Lebanon, Tennessee.
The indictment alleges that beginning in 2014 and continuing until yesterday, the defendants conspired with each other to obtain bulk quantities of marijuana and cocaine for redistribution in and around middle Tennessee. Once the drugs were received, the defendants would reduce them into smaller quantities and sell them in and around nightclubs in Nashville and from the parking lots and restrooms of these establishments. In order to maximize drug distribution in these nightclubs, the defendants would threaten rival and competing drug dealers who sold and attempted to sell cocaine and marijuana in the nightclubs.
In order to protect their drugs, territory and proceeds, the defendants would acquire, carry and discharge firearms and to maintain and extend control over their drug distribution they would commit acts involving murder, intimidation and assault against individuals who jeopardized its operations, including rival drug dealers.
All defendants are in custody and will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at a later date.
If convicted, the defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and up to 40 years.
This investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; Homeland Security Investigations; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ahmed Safeeullah and Trial Attorney Matthew Hoff of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime & Gang Section are prosecuting this case.
An indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Schenectady County Man Sentenced to 40 Years for Sexually Exploiting a ChildRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Robert Kirk, age 37, of Schenectady, New York, was sentenced today to 40 years in prison for sexually exploiting a child, and distributing and possessing child pornography.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon and Kevin Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Kirk previously admitted that on two occasions in July 2018, he used a sleeping child to create sexually explicit images and videos on his phone, including videos and images of himself touching the vagina of the minor over clothing and of the minor’s unclothed vaginal area. Kirk also admitted to distributing child pornography, including an image of the minor, as well as images depicting other children, over a group messaging application, and to possessing hundreds of images of child pornography.
Senior United States District Judge Norman A. Mordue also sentenced Kirk to a 25-year term of supervised released, to begin following his term of imprisonment.
This case was investigated by HSI, with assistance from the New York State Police, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia Giglio Suarez.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), and is designed to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Removal Order Upheld Against Tennessee Man Who Served as Nazi Concentration Camp Guard During WWIIRead the Press Release
The Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) has dismissed the appeal of Tennessee resident Friedrich Karl Berger, a German citizen who was ordered removed from the United States earlier this year on the basis of his service in Nazi Germany in 1945 as an armed guard of concentration camp prisoners in the Neuengamme Concentration Camp system (Neuengamme).
“Berger’s willing service as an armed guard at a Nazi concentration camp cannot be erased and will not be ignored,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department's Criminal Division. “On the eve of tomorrow’s 75th anniversary of the commencement of the Nuremberg trials of the surviving leaders of the defeated Nazi regime, this case shows that the passage of time will not deter the department from fulfilling the moral imperative of seeking justice for the victims of their heinous crimes.”
“Berger was an active participant in one of the darkest chapters in human history. He attempted to shed his nefarious past to come to America and start anew, but thanks to the dedication of those at the Department of Justice and Homeland Security Investigations, the truth was revealed,” said Deputy Assistant Director Louis A. Rodi III of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) National Security Investigations Division, which oversees the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center. “War criminals and violators of human rights will not be allowed to evade justice and find safe haven here.”
The BIA upheld a Memphis, Tennessee, Immigration Judge’s Feb. 28, 2020, decision that Berger was removable under the 1978 Holtzman Amendment to the Immigration and Nationality Act because his “willing service as an armed guard of prisoners at a concentration camp where persecution took place” constituted assistance in Nazi-sponsored persecution. The court found that Berger served at a Neuengamme sub-camp near Meppen, Germany, and that the prisoners there included “Jews, Poles, Russians, Danes, Dutch, Latvians, French, Italians, and political opponents” of the Nazis. The largest groups of prisoners were Russian, Dutch and Polish civilians.
After a two-day trial in February, the presiding judge issued an opinion finding that Meppen prisoners were held during the winter of 1945 in “atrocious” conditions and were exploited for outdoor forced labor, working, “to the point of exhaustion and death.” The court further found, and Berger admitted, that he guarded prisoners to prevent them from escaping during their dawn-to-dusk workday, and on their way to the worksites and also on their way back to the SS-run subcamp in the evening.
At the end of March 1945, as allied British and Canadian forces advanced, the Nazis abandoned Meppen. The court found that Berger helped guard the prisoners during their forcible evacuation to the Neuengamme main camp – a nearly two-week trip under inhumane conditions, which claimed the lives of some 70 prisoners. The decision also cited Berger’s admission that he never requested a transfer from concentration camp guard service and that he continues to receive a pension from Germany based on his employment in Germany, “including his wartime service.”
In 1946, British occupation authorities in Germany charged SS Obersturmführer Hans Griem, who had headed the Meppen sub-camps, and other Meppen personnel with war crimes for “ill-treatment and murder of Allied nationals.” Although Griem escaped before trial, the British court tried and convicted the remaining defendants of war crimes in 1947.
The trial and appeal of the removal case were handled by Eli Rosenbaum, Director of Human Rights Enforcement and Policy in the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP), HRSP Senior Trial Attorney Susan Masling, and attorneys from ICE New Orleans, Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (Memphis), with assistance from HRSP Chief Historian Jeffrey S. Richter, and the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center. The investigation was initiated by the HRSP and was conducted in partnership with the Nashville ICE HSI office.
Since the 1979 inception of the Justice Department’s program to detect, investigate, and remove Nazi persecutors, it has won cases against 109 individuals. Over the past 30 years, the Justice Department has won more cases against persons who participated in Nazi persecution than have the law enforcement authorities of all the other countries in the world combined. HRSP’s case against Berger was part of its ongoing efforts to identify, investigate and prosecute individuals who engaged in genocide, torture, war crimes, recruitment or use of child soldiers, female genital mutilation, and other serious human rights violations. HRSP attorneys prosecuted the first torture case brought in the United States and have successfully prosecuted criminal cases against perpetrators of human rights violations committed in Guatemala, Ethiopia, Liberia, Cuba, and the former Yugoslavia, among others.
To learn more about HRSP, visit https://www.justice.gov/criminal-hrsp.
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.
Randolph County woman sentenced for methamphetamine chargeRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Patsy Meredith DeMary, of Beverly, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 60 months of incarceration for distributing methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
DeMary, age 43, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” in April 2019. DeMary admitted to working with another to distribute methamphetamine in Randolph County in 2017.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives; the Mountain Region Drug Task Force; the Greater Harrison Drug Crime Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; Upshur County Sheriff’s Office; Lewis County Sheriff’s Office; the Buckhannon Police Department; and the Weston Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Raleigh Man Sentenced to Nine Years for String of Wake County RobberiesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man was sentenced today to 108 months in prison for robbing multiple businesses in Wake County in early 2019.
According to court documents, Tevan Immanuel Ferguson, 21, was named in an eight-count Indictment filed in the Eastern District of North Carolina on January 24, 2020. Counts 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7 charged Interference of Commerce by Threats or Violence (Hobbs Act Robbery) on February 21, 2019; February 22, 2019; February 24, 2019; February 25, 2019; and February 26, 2019, respectively, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951. Counts 4, 6, and 8 charged Brandishing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence on February 24, 2019; February 25, 2019; and February 26, 2019, respectively, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii).
Ferguson committed Hobbs Act Robberies at the Game Stop, 3023 Capital Blvd., Raleigh, on February 21, 2019, Han-Dee Hugo’s Gas Station, 3525 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, on February 22, 2019 and February 24, 2019, La Quinta Inn located at 2610 Westinghouse Blvd. in Raleigh, on February 25, 2019, and the Super 8 Hotel at 3801 Capital Blvd. in Raleigh, on February 26, 2019. Additionally, Ferguson possessed a firearm in furtherance of three of the aforementioned robberies.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. The Raleigh Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel W. Smith prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:20-cr-00050-BO.
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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.
Previously Convicted Bank Robber Charged with Robbing Two Camden County Banks Two Days ApartRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Pennsylvania man made his initial appearance today in connection with the February 2020 robberies of two Camden County, New Jersey, banks, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Leon I. Stanford, 51, of Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, is charged by complaint with two counts of bank robbery. The defendant was previously arrested by state authorities. He appeared by videoconference today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joel Schneider and was detained without bail.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Feb. 22, 2020, Stanford entered the TD Bank in Oaklyn, New Jersey, and handed the bank teller a note, which announced a robbery and demanded cash. The bank teller complied, and witnesses saw Stanford depart in a white SUV.
On Feb. 24, 2020, Stanford entered the Republic Bank in Cherry Hill, and similarly handed the bank teller a note which announced a robbery and demanded cash. The bank teller complied and witnesses saw Stanford depart in a white SUV.
Law enforcement officers were able to obtain a partial license plate number for the white SUV from surveillance videos in the area of both bank robberies, which generated a lead to a vehicle driven by Stanford. Numerous individuals familiar with Stanford identified him as the person in the bank surveillance videos.
At the time of these bank robberies, Stanford was on federal supervised release as a result of his prior bank robbery convictions, for which he served a 10-year prison term. Each bank robbery charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. Stanford could face additional penalties for violating his term of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Driscoll in Philadelphia; the New York / New Jersey United States Marshals Regional Task Force Camden Division, under the direction of Jason McHugh; the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Jill S. Mayer; the Oaklyn Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Moore; and the Cherry Hill Police Department, under the direction of Chief William P. Monaghan, with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen M. Harberg of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Camden Office.
The charges and allegations in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pearcy Arkansas Man Sentenced to over 7 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
Hot Springs, Arkansas – David Clay Fowlkes, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, announced today that Buddy Lee Harris, age 42, of Pearcy, Arkansas, was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release on one count of Distribution of Methamphetamine and one count of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. The Honorable Chief Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Hot Springs.
In the fall of 2019, detectives with the 18th Judicial Drug Task Force launched an investigation into drug trafficking in the Western District of Arkansas. In August of 2019, detectives conducted a controlled purchase of methamphetamine and a firearm from Harris.
Harris was indicted by a federal grand jury in November of 2019, and entered a guilty plea in May of 2020.
This case was investigated by the 18th Judicial Drug Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations Little Rock and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Bryan Achorn and Special Assistant United States Attorney Trent Daniels prosecuted the case for the Western District of Arkansas.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
PA Pharmacist Pleads Guilty and is Sentenced for Unlawfully Dispensing PainkillersRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of unlawfully distributing or dispensing a controlled substance, and was sentenced to six months probation and fine of $3,000, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Joseph Martella, Jr., 57, pleaded guilty before, and was sentenced, by United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that between November 2013 and June 2016, Martella, a licensed Pennsylvania pharmacist, dispensed oxycodone, morphine sulfate and hydrocodone by filling prescriptions at Martella Pharmacy in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, knowing said prescriptions were not issued for legitimate medical purposes.
In addition, Martella agreed in a settlement with the United States Attorney’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) that he would not dispense Schedule II or III narcotics for a period of three years and that Martella’s Pharmacy would pay a civil settlement of $300,000 and follow regulatory and reporting requirements established by the DEA.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Martella.
Orlando Cordia Hall Executed for 1994 Kidnapping and Murder of 16-Year-Old GirlRead the Press Release
Today, Orlando Cordia Hall was executed at U.S. Penitentiary Terre Haute in accordance with the capital sentence unanimously recommended by a federal jury and imposed by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas in 1996. Hall was pronounced dead at 11:47 p.m. EST.
In September 1994, Hall and several accomplices ran a marijuana trafficking operation out of Pine Bluff, Arkansas. After a failed drug transaction involving $4,700, Hall and his accomplices drove to the Arlington, Texas, home of a man they believed had stolen their money. The man’s 16-year-old sister, Lisa Rene, refused to let them inside. Although Rene — an honor roll student with dreams of becoming a doctor — had no role in the drug transaction, Hall and his accomplices broke into the apartment and kidnapped her at gunpoint. In the assailants’ car, Hall raped her and forced her to perform oral sex on him. Hall’s accomplices subsequently drove her to a motel in Arkansas, where they tied her to a chair and repeatedly raped her. Hall arrived at the motel room the next morning, took Rene into the bathroom for fifteen to twenty minutes, and emerged to announce that “she know too much.” That night, Hall and his accomplices took her to a park where Hall and another accomplice had dug a grave that afternoon, but they could not find the grave site in the dark. The next morning, they returned to the park with Rene. At the grave site, Hall placed a sheet over Rene’s head and hit her in the head with a shovel. Rene screamed and tried to run away, but the men tackled her and took turns beating her with the shovel. After soaking her with gasoline, they dragged her into the grave and buried her alive.
In 1995, a federal jury found Hall guilty of, among other offenses, kidnapping resulting in death, and unanimously recommended a death sentence, which the court imposed. His convictions and sentence were affirmed on appeal, and his requests for collateral relief were rejected by every court that considered them.
Oklahoma City Residents Plead Guilty to Mail and Wire Fraud Offenses in Attempt to Take Title to Metro Homes Without Owners’ KnowledgeRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier this week, LAURA R. JOHNSON, 45, THOMAS JOHNSON, SR., 52, and CHERYL M. ASHLEY, 70, all residents of Oklahoma City, have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud in a conspiracy to take ownership of more than a dozen homes without the consent or knowledge of the actual owners, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.
According to filed charges, the defendants used fraudulent documents from 2014 until 2019 to obtain title to homes and other properties. A number of properties the defendants targeted had delinquent property taxes and therefore were subject to being auctioned by the Oklahoma County Treasurer’s Office. By paying off one or more years of back taxes, the defendants caused the properties to be removed from the county tax auction. The defendants then filed fraudulent warranty deeds to transfer properties into the names of fictitious companies and individuals. The conspiracy also included fraudulent confidential stamp tax affidavits and fake mortgages, all of which contained forged notary signatures and seals.
Some homeowners vacated their homes based on phony eviction notices. When certain victims fought the takeover of their homes in court, the defendants filed pleadings with the names of fictitious lawyers and submitted affidavits in court signed by fictitious people.
The defendants targeted one home that had been owned by a woman who died in 2012. After they gained control of the decedent’s property, the defendants used bank records they found in the home and forged a power of attorney to lie to the bank in an attempt to withdraw more than $100,000 from the decedent’s bank account. When that attempt failed, the conspirators attempted to steal money by writing forged checks on the decedent’s account and causing electronic transfers out of the account for their personal benefit. They also filed a false will in Oklahoma County District Court after the woman’s nephew learned of the death and filed a probate action. Based on fraudulent information, the court appointed Laura Johnson as the personal representative of the estate, which enabled her to withdraw $63,950 from the decedent’s bank accounts and obtain $45,000 from her oil and gas interests.
On November 17, 2020, each defendant pleaded guilty to a single count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.
At sentencing, which is anticipated to take place in about 90 days, defendants Thomas Johnson Sr., and Cheryl Ashely face a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison or a fine of no more than $250,000, or both, in addition to a term of supervised release of three years. Defendant Laura Johnson, faces a maximum penalty of thirty years in federal prison or a fine of $1,000,000, or both, in addition to a term of supervised release of five years.
These charges are the result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kerry A. Kelly and Jessica L. Perry are prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for more information. To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.
Ohio Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart today announced that Troskey Banks, 23, of Cleveland, Ohio, was sentenced to five years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“Banks, yet another Ohio drug dealer, was peddling dangerous methamphetamine,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Meth overdose deaths are on the rise in West Virginia. We continue to work with our law enforcement partners to rid our communities of drug dealers and hold them accountable.”
Banks previously pled guilty and admitted that in January 2020, he directed Clay Dempsey to drive to Cleveland, Ohio, to obtain controlled substances for Banks to distribute. Banks told Dempsey to park the van containing the drugs at a location in South Charleston upon his return so Banks could retrieve the drugs. When law enforcement officers searched the van, they recovered methamphetamine weighing 108 grams.
Dempsey, who also has pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced on December 2, 2020.
The Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) and the South Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Monica Coleman is handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-00035.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews and USAttyStuart
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Ocala Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Cory Lamar Cohen, Jr. (22, Ocala) today pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
Cohen had been indicted on August 19, 2020.
According to facts presented in court, on January 29, 2020, Cohen was the front seat passenger in a vehicle stopped by the Ocala Police Department for a traffic infraction. After a police canine alerted to the odor of illegal drugs in the car, a search revealed a black backpack on the floorboard that contained a loaded semi-automatic pistol, a second magazine loaded with ammunition, a glass jar containing a large amount of marijuana, five white opioid tablets, a digital scale, and Cohen’s State of Florida identification card. A subsequent laboratory analysis showed Cohen’s DNA profile at numerous locations on the recovered firearm. Cohen, a multi-convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Ocala Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Bodnar, Jr.
Nigerian National Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Victims Using Online ScamsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Nigerian national pleaded guilty today in connection with defrauding victims using various online scams during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nosayamen Iyalekhue, 33, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel scheduled sentencing for March 4, 2021. Iyalekhue was arrested in June 2020 along with a co-defendant, Esogie Osawaru, 27, who pleaded guilty on Nov. 12, 2020.
Iyalekhue and Osawaru participated in a series of romance, pandemic unemployment insurance, and other online scams designed to defraud victims by convincing them to send money to accounts controlled by the defendants. To carry out the scams, the defendants used false foreign passports in the names of others, but with their photos, to open numerous bank accounts, and in turn directed the victims to send money to these accounts. Iyalekhue and Osawaru then rapidly withdrew the victims’ money from various bank branches and ATMs, often multiple times during a single day. The schemes included collecting unemployment insurance in the name of others during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater, and forfeiture. The defendant is also subject to deportation proceedings. 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 Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Miron Bloom of Lelling’s Securities, Financial and Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
New York Man Sentenced for Aggravated Identity Theft and Conspiracy to Commit Bank FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announces the sentencing, on November 18, 2020, of MYLES NICHOLAS, age 33, of Jamaica, New York, by U.S. District Judge Wendy Vitter. Judge Vitter sentenced NICHOLAS to 25 months in prison pursuant to his prior guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. These charges arose from NICHOLAS’S June 2019 trip with his co-defendant to southeast Louisiana where they attempted to commit fraud at several Baton Rouge-area Best Buy stores.
According to court documents, members of the Louisiana Financial Crimes Task Force received information that NICHOLAS and his co-defendant, Terrence Nealy, would be flying to New Orleans from New York on the morning of June 21, 2019. Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies and U.S. Secret Service agents initiated surveillance at New Orleans International Airport, where they observed NICHOLAS and Nealy arrive on their flight from New York’s JFK Airport. NICHOLAS and Nealy then rented a car and immediately drove to Baton Rouge. While in Baton Rouge, the defendants opened a $4,000 line of credit at a Best Buy store using a stolen identity. Shortly thereafter, however, their attempt to purchase an Apple MacBook Pro using that line of credit was denied. NICHOLAS and Nealy returned to their car and drove back to New Orleans. Later that day, they were arrested near their hotel in downtown New Orleans by state and federal members of the Louisiana Financial Crimes Task Force.
Terrence Nealy has likewise pleaded guilty. He is scheduled to be sentenced on January 20, 2021.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the agencies that contributed to this conviction, which represents a coordinated effort of federal and state law enforcement authorities within the Louisiana Financial Crimes Task Force. The Task Force includes representatives from the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. State Department, Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the New Orleans Police Department, the Covington Police Department, Hammond Police Department, Kenner Police Department, Louisiana State Police, Mandeville Police Department, Slidell Police Department, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John The Baptist Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew R. Payne is in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Man is Charged with Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser, announced that JOSEPH CAMPO (CAMPO), age 78, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged on November 17, 2020 with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and money laundering.
According to the Bill of Information, CAMPO was a licensed pharmacist in the State of Louisiana and worked as the Pharmacist-in-Charge (“PIC”) at Prime Pharmacy Solutions (“Prime”), which was located in Slidell, Louisiana. Between 2014 and 2016, Prime operated as a primarily closed-door pharmacy that was in the business of mixing and filling prescriptions for compounded medications that were reimbursed by health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, a health care benefit program for United States military personnel and their families.
CAMPO, and other co-conspirators, acting on behalf of Prime, selected formulas for compounded medications, not based on scientific evaluations of effectiveness or individualized patient need, but rather, to maximize reimbursement from TRICARE and other health care benefit programs.
Prime then mass produced these High-Yield Compounded Medications and created a series of preprinted prescription forms encouraging and directing prescribers/doctors to prescribe these High-Yield Compounded Medications. The scheme involved defrauding TRICARE of approximately $16 million dollars.
If convicted, CAMPO faces a possible maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
The case is being investigated by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service – Office of Inspector General, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General, and the United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General.
The United States Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Louisiana stated that the Bill of Information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn McHugh.
New Bedford Man Indicted for Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A New Bedford man was indicted today by a federal grand jury with illegally possessing three firearms and ammunition.
Jose Montanez, 23, was indicted on one count of possessing a firearm and ammunition while being a convicted felon. Montanez will make an appearance in federal court in Boston tomorrow.
According to the indictment, on or about July 20, 2020, Montanez possessed a Smith and Wesson .380 Bodyguard; an H&R .22 caliber revolver; a Springfield XD-40 .40 caliber handgun; 6 rounds of .380 ammunition; and 279 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition inside of a hotel room he was staying in.
The charge of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $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; Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; and New Bedford Police Chief Joseph C. Cordeiro made the announcement today. Assistant United States Attorney Evan Gotlob of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Naval Pilot Admits to Coercing a Minor, Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Lieutenant Commander Ronald W. Zenga, 44, of Middletown, RI, a retired U.S. Navy pilot most recently stationed at the Naval War College in Newport, RI, pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence today to charges he coerced a minor to engage in illicit sexual conduct, and that he distributed, received, and possessed child pornography, all while actively serving and following his retirement from active service with the U.S. Navy.
According to court documents and information provided to the Court, in September 2018, HSI agents in Providence received information from the Bedfordshire Police Department (BPD) in the United Kingdom that an individual, later identified as Zenga, was communicating with a BPD agent through a Russian file sharing website. The communications graphically described ongoing sexual encounters with a young minor child. Zenga described several years of sexual encounters with a child, dating back to the child’s prepubescent years.
On October 17, 2018, HSI agents and members of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force executed a federal court authorized search of Zenga’s Middletown residence. Forensic previews of Zenga’s electronic devices resulted in the discovery of emails and files of child pornography allegedly shared, received and possessed by Zenga.
At sentencing on February 2, 2021, Zenga faces statutory penalties of 10 years to life in federal prison followed by 5 years to lifetime supervised release on the charge of coercion; 5-20 years imprisonment followed by up to lifetime supervised release on the charges of distribution of child pornography and receipt of child pornography; and up to 10 years imprisonment and 3 years supervised release on the charge of possession of child pornography.
Zenga’s guilty plea is announced by United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Acting Special Agent in Charge David Magdycz, and Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police Colonel James M. Manni.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.
The Rhode Island ICAC Task Force is comprised of members of the Rhode Island State Police Computer Crimes Unit along with detectives from the Warwick Police Department, Cranston Police Department, Newport Police Department, East Providence Police Department, Pawtucket Police Department, Bristol Police Department, Portsmouth Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations.
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Mountain Pine Arkansas Man Sentenced to over 13 Years in Federal Prison for Assault with A Dangerous Weapon and for Discharging A WeaponRead the Press Release
Hot Springs, Arkansas – David Clay Fowlkes, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, announced today that Cedric Allen Wiley, age 30, of Mountain Pine, Arkansas, was sentenced to a total of 166 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release on one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm and one count of Discharge of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. The Honorable Chief Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Hot Springs.
On Thursday, February 21, 2019, at approximately 7:00 p.m., National Park Service (NPS) agents responded to a shooting that occurred along Summit Drive of West Mountain within Hot Springs National Park, in the Western District of Arkansas. NPS Dispatch reported the shooting and that a victim had been shot in the back. Responding NPS officers were able to identify a possible suspect(s) based on information provided by the victim both on scene and at the hospital. Additionally, the victim later confirmed that the person who shot him or her was, Cedric “Ced” Wiley.
According to the victim, prior to the shooting, he or she had been riding around in a vehicle with Wiley and others when they stopped at the Hot Springs National Park. While at the Hot Springs National Park, Wiley turned around, drew a weapon from his person and fired the weapon as the victim ran toward the shoulder of the road. The victim stated that he or she was hit in the back and went over the embankment, and that as he or she ran into the woods and down the embankment, Wiley continued to shoot at them. Wiley left the scene and the victim was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.
On February 24, 2019, investigators interviewed Wiley in reference to this investigation. After being advised of his Miranda rights and voluntarily and knowingly waiving them, Wiley admitted he contacted the victim to arrange a meeting with him or her. Wiley advised that he was upset with the victim, and that he shot the victim in the National Park on February 21, 2019, with a firearm that Wiley had obtained prior to the shooting.
“Investigating and prosecuting violent crimes such as this one is a top priority in the Department of Justice and the Western District of Arkansas,” said First Assistant Fowlkes. “We will continue to work relentlessly to make our communities safer by ensuring that violent criminals are prosecuted using the full extent of our federal and state resources.”
Wiley was indicted by a federal grand jury in June of 2019, and entered a guilty plea in August of 2019.
This case was investigated by, the National Park Service. Assistant United States Attorney Bryan Achorn prosecuted the case for the Western District of Arkansas.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Montrose Resident Sentenced to Serve over 13 Years in Federal Prison for Possession and Distribution of Methamphetamine and Heroin as well as Witness IntimidationRead the Press Release
DENVER – United States Attorney Jason R. Dunn announced that Angelina Maestas, of Montrose, Colorado, was sentenced yesterday to serve a total of 160 months (over 13 years) in federal prison for possession and distribution of methamphetamine and heroin as well as witness, victim or informant tampering. Following her prison sentence, Maestas was ordered to serve 5 years on supervised release. Maestas is 1 of 13 people indicted in January of 2020 as part of a large-scale drug trafficking investigation in Montrose. The Denver Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration joined in this announcement.
According to court documents, including the stipulated facts contained in the defendants’ plea agreements, Maestas conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, 500 grams or more of a mixture of a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and less than 100 grams of heroin.
In addition to her drug charge, Maestas also committed witness, victim or informant tampering. According to court records, she posted discovery documents protected by court order on Facebook. This included material that identified at least one co-conspirator who Maestas alleged cooperated with police.
“This substantial sentence is an appropriate one for someone that caused tremendous damage to a small Colorado community and then tried to undermine the judicial process by intimidating a witness,” said U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn. “We look forward to continuing the prosecutions in the case and ensuring that this drug ring is stomped out permanently.”
“The DEA applauds the sentencing of Maestas,” said Special Agent in Charge Deanne Reuter of the DEA Denver Field Division. “It sends a clear message that the people of this community won’t tolerate these peddlers selling these deadly poisons, or their attempts to intimidate witnesses.”
Maestas was sentenced to 130 months for the drug crimes, and 30 months for the witness, victim or informant tampering, with both sentences to run consecutive. U.S. District Court Judge Christine M. Arguello pronounced the sentences. Of the 13 defendants indicted in this case, 3, including Maestas, have pleaded guilty. The only other defendant who has so far been sentenced, Joseph Davis, was ordered to serve 151 months in federal prison. The cases against the other 10 defendants are pending.
This case was investigated by the DEA with substantial support from the Montrose Police Department and the Montrose County Sheriff.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado. Related court documents can be found on PACER by searching for Case Numbers 19-cr-535 and 20-cr-0166. The defendant was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Phillips.
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.
Monessen Man Sentenced to 6½ Years for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse VideosRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Monessen, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 78 months’ imprisonment and 15 years of supervised release on his conviction of Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Jack Brian LaForte, 56, of Monessen, Pennsylvania.
According to information presented to the court, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) began investigating Mr. LaForte for violations of online child exploitation offenses after receiving information about an individual who had uploaded an image depicting a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Agents were able to trace the upload of this child sexual abuse material to Mr. LaForte’s residence in Monessen, Pennsylvania. Upon executing a search warrant at Mr. LaForte’s residence in June 2019, Agents seized a laptop computer from Mr. LaForte that contained material, namely videos, of minors engaging in the lewd and lascivious display of their genitals, as well as engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The child sexual abuse material recovered from Mr. LaForte’s computer included videos depicting prepubescent minors who had not attained 12 years of age. At that time, Mr. LaForte spoke to agents and admitted to engaging in the criminal conduct.
Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Department of Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of LaForte.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Mobile Man and Woman Sentenced for Violent CarjackingsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Richard W. Moore of the Southern District of Alabama announced that Earnest Jonathan Law, 26, and Kiara Shantel Green, 27, of Mobile, Alabama, were sentenced in federal court for their respective roles in a series of violent carjackings in Mobile in April and May 2018. Green pleaded guilty to three charges in January 2020—one count of conspiracy to commit carjacking and two counts of carjacking. Law pleaded guilty to two charges in August 2020—one count of carjacking and one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
In connection with his guilty plea, Law admitted that in the early morning hours of May 16, 2018, he intentionally rear-ended a car at an intersection in Mobile. As Green engaged the two occupants of the car in conversation, Law pointed a black and silver handgun at them. Law held the victims at gunpoint, stole both victims’ cell phones, and ordered the victims to run into an adjacent field. While the victims ran away, Law yelled “faster” and fired a shot into the air. Law then got into the victims’ car and fled the scene. Approximately nine hours later, police found Law driving the stolen car. He led officers on a brief high-speed pursuit and attempted to flee on foot. Officers apprehended Law after chasing him through a field.
Following his arrest, Law made several recorded phone calls to Green from the Mobile County Metro Jail. Law instructed Green to return to the area where police had caught him in order to retrieve his gun, which he said he had ditched behind a stack of tires. When Green told Law she could not find the gun and suggested the police must have found it, Law replied, “They got my gun, they got my gun, what the f***, bro?” Law added, “I need money. You were fixing to go sell that.” Police later found the gun—a loaded black and silver .40-caliber pistol—tucked behind a stack of tires at the location Law had referenced on his jail calls.
In connection with her guilty plea, Green admitted to her role in the May 16, 2018 carjacking. Green further admitted that in the late evening hours of April 9, 2018, she and a male coconspirator carjacked another victim after intentionally ramming into the victim’s car at an intersection in Mobile. As Green approached the victim to engage in conversation, the male assailant grabbed the victim by the neck, put the victim in a chokehold so severe that the victim nearly lost consciousness, and repeatedly struck the victim on the top of the head. The male assailant punched the victim in the face and stole the victim’s cell phone before fleeing the scene in the stolen car. Law denied any involvement in the April 9, 2018 carjacking.
On November 18, 2020, Senior United States District Judge Callie V.S. Granade sentenced Law to a total term of 183 months’ imprisonment, consisting of 63 months on the carjacking charge and 120 months on the gun charge, ordering that the sentences run consecutively. Law will serve a term of three years on supervised release upon the completion of his sentence. For her role in these offenses, Judge Granade sentenced Green to 24 months’ imprisonment and a three-year term of supervised release. Law and Green were not ordered to pay a fine, but the judge ordered the defendants to pay victim restitution of at least $760, with further restitution to be determined. The court also ordered that Law and Green pay $200 and $100 in special assessments, respectively.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Mobile Police Department. It was prosecuted in the United States Attorney’s Office by Assistant United States Attorney Justin Roller.
Missoula Substance Abuse Connect receives $248,000 grant to develop meth prevention, treatment planRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—Missoula Substance Abuse Connect, a coalition created to develop a comprehensive community plan to reduce substance abuse, including methamphetamine-related violent crime, in Missoula County, has received a $248,000 federal grant as part of an overall initiative to fight violent crime, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
The Office of National Drug Control Policy awarded initial funding of $248,000 through 2021 to the Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). Rocky Mountain HIDTA allocated the funds to the Missoula Police Department. The MPD will administer the grant through United Way of Missoula County, which is leading the Missoula Substance Abuse Connect effort.
Missoula Substance Abuse Connect is a coalition of more than 40 non-profit, business and government organizations working to reduce demand for meth by developing a drug prevention, treatment and recovery support plan for the community. The coalition was organized through the leadership of United Way and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a U.S. Department of Justice initiative reinvigorated two years ago to reduce violent crime through enforcement and prevention.
Violent crime increased 49% from 2011 to 2017 in Missoula County. PSN, which focuses on prosecuting meth dealers, armed robbers, and violent offenders with firearms, began at the end of April 2018. Over the next two years, murders, robberies and aggravated assaults decreased 25 percent. Since COVID-19 arrived, however, those same violent crimes increased 40% for the seven months of April through October when compared with the same period last year.
As part of PSN Missoula County, federal, state and local law enforcement unanimously identified meth as the leading cause of the increase in violent crime. Since COVID-19 began, Millenium Health reported in July that urinalysis positivity rates for meth increased 34% in Montana.
“We are pleased the community received this grant, which funds an important part of PSN’s goal to reduce violent crime. Strong enforcement by our federal, state and local enforcement partners is critical to shutting down meth trafficking organizations that push this highly addictive drug, but it is not enough. We also need prevention and treatment services to help reduce demand. We are pleased to be part of Missoula Substance Abuse Connect.” U.S. Attorney Alme said.
“Drug enforcement is more effective if done in partnership with prevention and treatment programs that reduce demand. An epidemic of substance abuse – particularly meth use – is overwhelming local courts, jail and hospitals and is ravaging families. We must break this terrible cycle by providing greater access to effective prevention and treatment programs and support for people in recovery,” said Susan Hay Patrick, chief executive officer of United Way of Missoula County.
“This is an incredible opportunity for our community to collaborate on one of the most pressing challenges of our time—methamphetamine. Working together, we can prevent youngsters from ever using meth, provide local treatment for those struggling with addiction and prosecute and bring to justice drug dealers who come here to push meth,” said Missoula County Attorney Kirsten Pabst.
“The Missoula Police Department is proud to be a part of Missoula Substance Abuse Connect. We look forward to the prevention and treatment opportunities this program will provide our community. Missoula Substance Abuse Connect, coupled with our enforcement efforts with our law enforcement partners, will help us reduce drug-related crimes in Missoula,” Missoula Police Chief Jaeson White said.
“The Missoula County Sheriff’s Office looks forward to this partnership with the United Way to provide assistance through Missoula Substance Abuse Connect to those in our community who are dealing with addictions and substance abuse issues. I’d also like to thank United Way of Missoula CEO Susan Hay Patrick for her efforts on this project,” Missoula County Sheriff TJ McDermott said.
Missoula Substance Abuse Connect will be managed by United Way of Missoula County and a volunteer board of business and community leaders. The project director is Shannan Sproull, who is an authority on substance abuse prevention with decades of experience in the public and private sectors. The project chair is Janna Lundquist, a respected organizational consultant and former United Way board president with an extensive background in business and nonprofit leadership. Project leaders are recruiting an executive committee and working group from among the 40 public and private coalition member organizations.
PSN Missoula County’s partners include the U.S. Attorney’s Office; Missoula County Attorney’s Office; Montana Department of Justice’s Prosecution Services Bureau, Highway Patrol and Division of Criminal Investigation; the Montana Department of Correction’s Adult Probation and Parole Division; the Missoula Police Department; the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office; Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Marshal’s Service.
For more information about Missoula Substance Abuse Connect, contact Susan Hay Patrick, CEO, United Way of Missoula County, [email protected]; 406-360-0596.
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Mercer County Man Admits Possessing Firearm Loaded with 30 Rounds of Ammunition in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Hamilton, New Jersey, man today admitted possessing a handgun in furtherance of a drug crime, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced today.
Armond Holloway, 44, of Hamilton, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp via videoconference to Count Two of an indictment charging him with possession of a firearm in furtherance of possession with intent to distribute heroin.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On July 31, 2017, Holloway was on parole after having served a term of imprisonment. Holloway’s parole officer received information from an anonymous source that Holloway, who had known gang affiliations, was in possession of a gun, 300-400 bricks of heroin, and a large amount of money at his residence.
On Aug. 1, 2017, the parole officer, along with other law enforcement officers, conducted a parole search of Holloway’s residence, where they recovered a Masterpiece Arms 9 mm firearm with an obliterated serial number, loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition, under Holloway’s bed. They also found a barrel extension that fit the gun. Also recovered from Holloway’s bedroom was more than $14,000 in cash and more than 400 bricks of heroin from Holloway’s basement.
The count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime to which Holloway pleaded guilty carries a statutory mandatory minimum term of five years in prison, a maximum of life in prison, and a maximum fine of $250,000. If accepted by the court at the time of sentencing, Holloway’s plea agreement would result in Holloway serving a stipulated total sentence between eight and 10 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for March 23, 2021.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Charlie J. Patterson in Newark; the New Jersey State Parole Board, under the direction of Chairman Samuel J. Plumeri Jr.; and the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan, with the investigation leading to today’s plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elisa T. Wiygul and Michelle S. Gasparian of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.
Member of Gregory Butler Drug Trafficking Organization Pleads Guilty to Federal Charge of Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – Davon Owens, age 36, of Baltimore, Maryland, pleaded guilty on November 17, 2020, to possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. Owens was a member of the Gregory Butler Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) which distributed heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
The guilty plea was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Special Agent in Charge Jennifer C. Boone of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; Assistant Special Agent in Charge Orville O. Greene of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Baltimore District Office; Chief Marcus Jones of the Montgomery County Police Department; and Commissioner Michael Harrison of the Baltimore Police Department.
According to his guilty plea, from at least November 2018 through April 3, 2019, Owens participated in the DTO, taking custody of narcotics that he would then store in his house in Baltimore. When the DTO needed to re-supply street-level drug distributors, Owens would provide the narcotics to a supervisor in the DTO.
As detailed in his plea agreement, law enforcement intercepted communications where Owens discussed the storage and movement of large quantities of heroin. On April 3, 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Owens’ residence in the 700 block of Denison Street in Baltimore, and recovered a duffle bag containing over one kilogram of heroin, and a loaded 9mm pistol. Owens admitted that he possessed the heroin with the intent to distribute and that he possessed the firearm during and in relation to the conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
Owens faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum of life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. District Judge Paul W. Grimm has scheduled sentencing for April 1, 2021, at 2:00 p.m.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the FBI, the DEA, the Montgomery County and the Baltimore Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur commended the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the City of Rockville Police Department; the Baltimore County, Howard County, and Montgomery County Police Departments; the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office; the Maryland State Police; the West Virginia State Police; the Virginia State Police; the Warren County (VA) Sheriff’s Department; the Winchester (VA) and Front Royal (VA) Police Departments; and the Frederick County and Howard County State’s Attorney’s Offices. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew DellaBetta and Michael Goldsticker, who are prosecuting the case.
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Member of International Burglary Crew Pleads Guilty to RacketeeringRead the Press Release
Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today the guilty plea of DAMIR PEJCINOVIC, a/k/a “Damian,” a/k/a “CoCo,” to participating in a criminal organization that committed a series of burglaries and engaged in the interstate transportation of stolen goods between 2006 and 2017. PEJCINOVIC pled guilty today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin Nathaniel Fox. Gzimi Bojkovic, a/k/a “Jimmy,” pled guilty on October 7, 2019, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ona T. Wang. Adrian Fiseku pled guilty on March 13, 2020, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ona T. Wang. Elvis Cirikovic, a/k/a “Gorilla,” pled guilty on August 26, 2019, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Katharine H. Parker.
Acting U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said: “As they have now admitted, the defendants were part of a sophisticated criminal enterprise that carried out burglaries on both sides of the Atlantic, to the tune of over $10 million. We continue our daily work with our law enforcement partners to vigorously investigate criminal organizations that commit crimes in New York City and elsewhere. We especially want to thank the FBI and the NYPD for their outstanding work on this case.”
As alleged in the Indictment and statements made in open court:
Between 2006 and April 2017, DAMIR PEJCINOVIC, a/k/a “Damian,” a/k/a “CoCo,” Gzimi Bojkovic, a/k/a “Jimmy,” Adrian Fiseku, and Elvis Cirikovic, a/k/a “Gorilla,” participated in a criminal organization whose members and associates engaged in, among other things, the commission of burglaries and interstate transportation and sale of stolen goods. The criminal organization operated principally in New York City, California, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, Massachusetts, Maine, and Europe. Members and associates of the organization committed, conspired to commit, and attempted to commit numerous burglaries of jewelry stores and banks, as well as the interstate transportation and sale of stolen property from the burglaries. PEJCINOVIC, Bojkovic, Fiseku, Cirikovic, and other members and associates of the criminal organization committed the following burglaries and attempted burglaries:
On March 29, 2008, PEJCINOVIC, Bojkovic, and Cirikovic participated in a burglary of a jewelry store in Manhattan, which resulted in the theft of jewelry valued at over $2.5 million.
On October 11, 2008, PEJCINOVIC and Cirikovic participated in an attempted burglary of a jewelry store in Germany, attempting to steal gold valued at more than €10 million.
On July 26, 2009, PEJCINOVIC and Bojkovic participated in a burglary of a jewelry store in Manhattan, which resulted in the theft of jewelry valued at over $850,000.
On August 25, 2010, PEJCINOVIC participated in an attempted burglary of a jewelry store in Manhattan.
On August 28, 2010, PEJCINOVIC and Bojkovic participated in a burglary of a jewelry store in Beverly Hills, which resulted in the theft of jewelry valued at over $70,000.
On September 5, 2010, PEJCINOVIC participated in a burglary of a jewelry store in Kansas City, which resulted in the theft, interstate transportation, and sale of jewelry valued at over $1 million.
On February 19, 2011, PEJCINOVIC, Cirikovic, and Fiseku participated in a jewelry store in Los Angeles, which resulted in the theft, interstate transportation, and sale of jewelry valued at over $3 million.
In the summer of 2011, PEJCINOVIC participated in an attempted burglary of a jewelry store in Brooklyn.
On September 16, 2011, PEJCINOVIC and Cirikovic participated in a burglary of a jewelry store in Los Angeles, which resulted in the theft of jewelry valued at over $150,000.
In the fall of 2012, PEJCINOVIC and Bojkovic participated in an attempted burglary of a bank in Philadelphia.
On June 30, 2012, PEJCINOVIC and Cirikovic participated in an attempted burglary of a bank in Scarsdale.
On July 22, 2012, PEJCINOVIC participated in an attempted burglary of a jewelry store in Manhattan.
In the fall of 2013, PEJCINOVIC, Bojkovic, and Cirikovic participated in the burglary of a jewelry store in New Jersey.
On December 31, 2016, PEJCINOVIC, Bojkovic, and Fiseku participated in the burglary of a jewelry store in Manhattan, which resulted in the theft, interstate transportation, and sale of jewelry valued at over $3 million.
On March 20, 2017, PEJCINOVIC, Bojkovic, and Fiseku participated in the burglary of a jewelry store in Los Angeles, which resulted in the theft of jewelry valued at over $2 million.
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PEJCINOVIC, Bojkovic, Fiseku, and Cirikovic each pled guilty to racketeering conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencings of the defendants will be determined by the judge.
PEJCINOVIC is scheduled to be sentenced on March 9, 2021.
Bojkovic was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero on November 17, 2020, to 36 months in prison.
Fiseku is scheduled to be sentenced on January 22, 2021.
Cirikovic was sentenced by Judge Marrero on January 13, 2020, to 27 months in prison.
Ms. Strauss praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and the NYPD. Ms. Strauss also thanked the Los Angeles Police Department, Beverly Hills Police Department, Kansas City Police Department, Portland Police Department, German Federal Police, Interpol, Europol, the Office of International Affairs, and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for their assistance in this investigation.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent & Organized Crime Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew K. Chan, Margaret Graham, and Jamie Bagliebter are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
McDowell Co. Man Sentenced to More Than 14 Years on Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray announced today that Jonathan Brooks Floyd, 43, of Marion, N.C. was sentenced to 178 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Martin Reidinger also sentenced Floyd to five years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term.
According to today’s sentencing hearing and documents filed with the Court, in November 2019, law enforcement became aware that Floyd was trafficking methamphetamine. During a subsequent search at Floyd’s residence, law enforcement discovered more than 625 grams of methamphetamine and five firearms. Floyd pleaded guilty to the drug charge on June 1, 2020. Floyd’s previous convictions in North Carolina, including a Habitual Felon conviction, contributed to the Court’s prison sentence.
Floyd is currently in custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons to begin serving his sentence upon designation of a federal facility.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Murray thanks the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation of this case.
Assistant United States Attorney John Pritchard of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case.
Maryland Man Going to Prison for Defrauding an Orchard Park Aerospace Company Out of More Than 800,000Read the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Amir Jahed a/k/a Amir Jahedmotlagh, 50, of Montgomery Village, Maryland, who was convicted of mail fraud, was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin M. Higgins, who handled the case, stated that between 2010 and July 19, 2018, the defendant was an employee of Cobham Mission Systems, a company headquartered in Orchard Park, NY, that was engaged in the development, delivery, and support of aerospace and defense technology and systems. Cobham also had an office located in Westminster, Maryland. As part of his employment, Jahed was assigned company credit cards (purchase cards) and was authorized to make certain purchases on behalf of Cobham for its business operations. The defendant used his company purchase cards to conduct approximately 600 unauthorized transactions. Jahed claimed that the transactions were purchases of parts for Cobham’s business operations. In truth and in fact, the defendant did not purchase any parts for Cobham; rather, he used the purchase cards to direct funds into accounts controlled by him, resulting in a loss of $832,003 to Cobham. After Jahed used a purchase card fraudulently to obtain funds, he mailed fraudulent invoices to Cobham headquarters in support of the fraudulent transactions to give the appearance that the purchases were made to support Cobham’s business operations.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Buffalo Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
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