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Friday 2 October 2020
Central City Man Receives 30-Year Sentence for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Robert K. Hopkins, 40, formerly of Central City, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Lincoln, Nebraska, by Chief United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for production of child pornography. Hopkins was sentenced to 30 years in prison and a lifetime of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
In December of 2019, a mother reported that she believed her eight-year-old daughter had been the victim of a sexual assault by Hopkins, who had been a family friend. During a forensic interview, the child informed investigators that Hopkins had taken herself and some other children on an outing to a trampoline park in early December. At one point during the outing, Hopkins had taken the victim alone away from the park on an errand. Thereafter, Hopkins drove with the girl out into the country and parked his vehicle on the side of the road. While parked, Hopkins used his cellular phone to take sexually explicit photographs of the girl. Through this and subsequent forensic interviews, the girl additionally indicated that Hopkins had sexually assaulted her on several other occasions stemming back to at least 2018.
A search warrant was executed at Hopkin’s residence and for his electronic devices. An extraction of his cellular phone revealed images as described by the victim which were taken in December of 2019.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States 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.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations along with the Grand Island Police Department and the Hall County Sheriff’s Department.
Camden County Man Charged with Fentanyl Trafficking and Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking CrimeRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – A Camden County man has been charged with possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced today.
Tyquan Burrell, 28, is charged by criminal complaint with one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Burrell is expected to appear this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joel Schneider by videoconference.
According to documents filed in this case:
On Oct. 1, 2020, law enforcement executing a search warrant at Burrell’s residence located approximately 2,521 wax baggies and three sandwich-sized clear plastic bags containing a total of more than 300 grams of a substance that tested positive for fentanyl, approximately $34,000 in U.S. currency, and a loaded handgun in a bedroom used by Burrell. Burrell was arrested in Cooper River Park in Camden and was in possession of approximately 418 wax baggies containing a substance also believed to be fentanyl.
The possession with intent to distribute charge carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of five years, a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $5 million fine. The charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of life imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine.
This investigation and prosecution is part of the Violent Crime Initiative (VCI) in Camden. The Camden VCI was formed in January of 2020 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Camden County Police Department for purpose of combatting violent crime in and around the Camden area. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate and pool resources to investigate and prosecute violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI includes the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, the Camden County Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Marshals, The U.S. Probation Office, the Camden County Sheriff’s Office, the New Jersey State Parole Board, the New Jersey State Police, the Rutgers University Police Department, and the Liberty Mid-Atlantic High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jason J. Molina; the Camden County Police Department, under the direction of Chief Joseph Wysocki; the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Jill S. Mayer; the Gloucester Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief David J. Harkins; and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson, and the Winslow Township Police Department under the direction of Chief George M. Smith, with the investigation leading to today’s charges. He also thanked the Camden County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Gilbert L. “Whip” Wilson, special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Charlie J. Patterson, and officers of the N.J. State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan, for their assistance with the case.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel A. Friedman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Camden.
The charges and allegations in the complaint are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Albuquerque man in court for drug and firearm charges under Operation LegendRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Toby Randall Walker, 36, appeared in federal court in Albuquerque on Oct. 1 on multiple drug and firearm charges brought under the Department of Justice’s Operation Legend.
According to a criminal complaint, on Sept. 29, agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration encountered Walker and located 1,490 grams of methamphetamine, 53.7 grams of fentanyl and 67 grams of heroin in his vehicle. Agents also located a total of four firearms.
Walker is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute 40 grams and more of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute heroin and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted, Walker faces not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, plus a mandatory five-year consecutive term on the firearm charge.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation. A defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The DEA and the Albuquerque Police Department investigated this case as part of the Department of Justice’s Operation Legend, a coordinated federal and local law enforcement initiative to fight gun and dangerous crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Howard is prosecuting the case.
Albany Man Indicted for Trafficking Cocaine from New York City to RensselaerRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jamol Franklin, age 48, of Albany, was indicted yesterday for possessing and intending to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Antoinette T. Bacon; Ray Donovan, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division; and Chief Sam Dotson, Amtrak Police Department.
According to the indictment and a previously filed criminal complaint, on July 5, 2020, Franklin transported over 500 grams of cocaine from New York City to Rensselaer, New York, with the intention of distributing that cocaine in the Capital Region. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
If convicted, Franklin faces at least 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 4 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the DEA, New York State Police, and Amtrak Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashlyn Miranda.
4 Members of Violent Bronx Gang Sentenced in Connection with Multiple Acts of Gun ViolenceRead the Press Release
Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that four members of the “Jack Boyz” street gang have been sentenced in connection with the October 30, 2018, shooting of an off-duty NYPD officer and other Bronx violence. NAZAE BLANCHE, a/k/a “Zae,” was sentenced yesterday to 14 years in prison. Previously, LEON SMALLS, a/k/a “Smoove,” was sentenced on August 27, 2020, to 15 years in prison; PATRICK AVILA, a/k/a “Pat,” was sentenced on September 24, 2020, to 12 years in prison; and JALEN COLDS, a/k/a “Jay Gunz,” was sentenced on September 29, 2020, to 16 years in prison. All four defendants were sentenced by United States District Judge Valerie E. Caproni. Each defendant previously pled guilty to using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a crime of violence, which firearm was discharged or brandished, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c).
Acting U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said: “From 2017 through 2019, Leon Smalls, Patrick Avila, Jalen Colds, and Nazae Blanche, all members of the Jack Boyz gang, engaged in senseless violence against their gang rivals in the Bronx. Now they face significant prison time for their actions. We thank the NYPD for its outstanding work on this case.”
According to allegations in the Indictment and other documents filed in federal court, as well as statements made in public court proceedings:
The Jack Boyz is a criminal enterprise involved in committing numerous acts of violence, including shootings, in and around the Bronx. Members and associates of the Jack Boyz engage in violence to retaliate against rival gangs, to promote the standing and reputation of the Jack Boyz, and to protect the gang’s narcotics business. Members and associates of the Jack Boyz enrich themselves by committing robberies and selling drugs.
On October 30, 2018, SMALLS, AVILA, COLDS, BLANCHE, and others engaged in a shootout with gang rivals, during which a nearby off-duty police officer was shot. In addition to this shooting, the defendants each engaged in other acts of violence in the Bronx and Manhattan from 2017 through 2019. As part of their plea agreements, the defendants pled guilty to these additional violent acts. In total, these defendants pled to participating in four additional Bronx shootings in 2017 and 2018, as well as a Manhattan assault and robbery in 2019. Multiple victims were injured during these incidents.
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Ms. Strauss praised the outstanding investigative work of the New York City Police Department.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Jamie Bagliebter, Michael Longyear, and Mathew Andrews are in charge of the prosecution.
18 Pennsylvania Prison Inmates and Accomplices Charged with Fraudulently Obtaining Pandemic Unemployment Assistance FundsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – First Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams announced that twelve Chester County Prison inmates and their accomplices were charged federally with fraudulently applying for and obtaining emergency unemployment benefits related to COVID-19. The defendants are charged with submitting false applications claiming that the prison inmates lost jobs as a result of the pandemic and are available to work full-time. All the defendants were arrested and taken into custody this morning or were already in custody.
In addition, Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro announced last week that his office brought state charges against six state prison inmates in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, who fraudulently applied for and obtained the same type of emergency unemployment benefits.
On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) was signed into law. The CARES Act created the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, which provides unemployment benefits to individuals not eligible for regular unemployment compensation or extended unemployment benefits, including individuals, families, and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligibility to receive weekly PUA benefits is predicated on an applicant’s unemployment for reasons related to the pandemic, and it requires that the applicant was able to work each day and, if offered a job, would have been able to accept it. Once an applicant is approved to receive benefits, the applicant is required to submit weekly certifications indicating that he or she: was ready, willing and able to work each day; was seeking full time employment; did not refuse any job offers or referrals; and had reported any employment during the week and the gross pay or other payments received. In all of the cases, the inmates falsely reported themselves eligible to receive PUA benefits when in fact they did not meet the eligibility requirements -- namely, they were not able to report to a job each day because of their incarceration.
These cases are being prosecuted and investigated by the United States Attorney’s Office and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General with assistance from the Chester County District Attorney’s Office and agencies of the Coronavirus Working Group led by the United States Attorney’s Office, including the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the United States Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General.
“These fraudsters – many of whom were already incarcerated for breaking the law - treated a national public health crisis as an opportunity to cash in,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Williams. “This callous attitude rips off honest taxpayers who fund relief programs and also makes it much more difficult to provide funds to those who deserve and need them. My Office will do everything in its power to ensure that coronavirus fraud scams are stopped and punished.”
“After announcing our first round of arrests in these COVID unemployment scams, I promised that there were more to come,” said Attorney General Josh Shapiro. “Last week, my office charged 20 more individuals with illegally taking benefits away from hard-working Pennsylvanians who are struggling during this crisis, including six inmates from SCI Phoenix in Montgomery County. These arrests are not the end of our investigation, and I’ll continue working with my colleagues at the federal level to track down those heading these schemes, along with those who are willfully participating and breaking the law.”
“It is despicable that incarcerated people lined their pockets by taking advantage of the COVID-19 financial lifeline given to millions of honest, hardworking Pennsylvanians. Thank you to the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania for your continuing efforts in fighting for justice,” said Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan.
“Millions of Americans struggling financially due to job loss from COVID-19 depend on every single dollar of assistance available to them,” said Michael J. Driscoll, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “When fraudulent applications wrongly drain those funds, it’s a blow to the folks who truly need help and a blatant theft of taxpayer dollars. Meantime, a word of advice to anyone thinking that scamming the government means easy money — the federal charges announced today can mean hard time, if convicted.”
“During tough economic times like this, it is despicable that people would seek to fraudulently obtain emergency unemployment benefits that were specifically meant for those who lost their jobs and are unable be gainfully employed amid this pandemic,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso. “We will continue to be relentless in our mission to dismantle these types of illicit scams and bring the criminals who run them to justice.”
“Today’s charges demonstrate the Office of Inspector General’s commitment to combating fraud against the Unemployment Insurance program, which has become increasingly prevalent amid the pandemic. We will continue to work with our law enforcement and state workforce agency partners to pursue individuals who seek to undermine the integrity of the Unemployment Insurance program,” said Derek Pickle, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Philadelphia Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
Descriptions of the cases are below:
Vincent Hazzard, 49, of Coatesville, PA, was charged by Indictment with mail fraud, fraud in connection with emergency benefits, theft of money of the United States, and aiding and abetting. According to the Indictment, in July 2020, the defendant caused multiple individuals to assist him in filing a fraudulent application for PUA funds. The application falsely stated that Hazzard was available for immediate employment, and that he was currently unemployed due to the pandemic, when in fact he was not available for employment due to the fact that he was incarcerated at the Chester County Prison, was not scheduled for release until late September 2020, and was not unemployed due to the pandemic. Hazzard had $1,590 credited to him by means of a prepaid bank card in late July 2020, and he caused others to spend or withdraw almost all of the funds by the end of August in order to avoid having funds left in his account in the event his fraud was discovered. If convicted of all charges, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 60 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $750,000 fine.
Jacob Fulton, 32, and Emily Baier, 26, both of Coatesville, PA, were charged by Indictment with conspiracy to commit mail fraud, mail fraud and fraud in connection with major disaster or emergency benefits, and aiding and abetting. According to the Indictment, between July 12 and August 26, 2020, Fulton and Baier conspired to file claims for PUA benefits on behalf of inmates of Chester County Prison and agreed to keep a portion of the PUA benefits for themselves. Fulton allegedly told Baier that with this scheme, they “can be f******* rich.” The Indictment also alleges that on or about May 11, 2020, Fulton and Baier filed PUA claims for themselves, fraudulently claiming that they are entitled to PUA benefits. If convicted of all charges, Fulton faces a maximum sentence of 90 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and a fine of $2,250,000, and Baier faces a maximum sentence of 120 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and a fine of $2,500,000.
Christopher Hersh, 36, of Avondale, PA, was charged by Indictment with conspiracy to defraud the United States and fraud in connection with major disaster or emergency benefits. According to the Indictment, in July 2020, the defendant caused one of his close relatives to assist him in filing a fraudulent application for PUA funds. The application falsely stated that Hersh was available for immediate employment, that he was currently unemployed due to the pandemic, and that his last day of work had been in November 2019 because he was laid off due to a business closure caused by the pandemic, when in fact he was not available for employment due to the fact that he was incarcerated at the Chester County Prison, had been incarcerated since December 2016, and was not unemployed due to the pandemic. If convicted of all charges, Hersh faces a maximum sentence of 35 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $500,000 fine.
Kenneth Huggins, 24, of Coatesville, PA, and Patrice Hawthorne, 46, of Middletown, DE, were charged by Criminal Complaint with conspiracy to commit mail fraud. According to the Complaint, Huggins, an inmate at Chester County Prison, and his mother, Hawthorne, conspired over a series of recorded prison telephone calls to submit a fraudulent application for PUA benefit payments on Huggins’s behalf. The application falsely stated that Huggins was available for immediate employment and that he was currently unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, when in fact he had been incarcerated since January 2020 at Chester County Prison and was not unemployed due to the pandemic. Huggins ultimately received more than $12,000 in unemployment benefits on a prepaid bank card; Hawthorne took custody of that card and withdrew funds for her own benefit. If convicted of all charges, both Huggins and Hawthorne face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
Biancha Kranzley, 31, of Coatesville, PA was charged by Complaint with fraud in connection with major disaster or emergency benefits. According to the Complaint, in July 2020, the defendant submitted a fraudulent application for benefits on behalf of an individual who, at the time, was incarcerated at the Chester County Prison. The application falsely stated that the applicant was unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic but was otherwise available to work, if offered a job. In fact, the applicant had been incarcerated since early 2019. The defendant received a prepaid debit card loaded with more than $13,000 in PUA benefits. She has used or withdrawn more than half of those funds. If convicted of all charges, Kranzley faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.
Jennifer D’Hulster, 37, of Coatesville, Zachary Gathercole, 30, of Sadsburyville, Ashley Harrington, 30, of West Chester, and Anthony Schweitzer, 20, of Coatesville, were charged by Indictment with conspiracy, fraud in connection with emergency benefits and aiding and abetting, and mail fraud. According to the Indictment, in June 2020, D’Hulster fraudulently applied for benefits for Schweitzer, who has been an inmate at Chester County Prison since June 2020, and, in July 2020 applied for benefits for a different inmate who has been incarcerated at State Correctional Institute Phoenixville (SCIP) since March 2020, neither of whom lost a job because of COVID-19. D’Hulster successfully enabled the SCIP inmate to receive unemployment benefits totaling approximately $11,410 credited to the inmate by means of a prepaid bank card. In May 2020, Harrington fraudulently applied for benefits for Gathercole, who has been an inmate at Chester County Prison since August 2019, did not lose a job because of COVID-19, and has not been able to work. Harrington successfully enabled Gathercole to receive unemployment benefits totaling approximately $14,140. Additionally, D’Hulster and Gathercole collected personal identification information for other individuals, including inmates at Chester County Prison, to use to submit additional fraudulent applications for PUA benefits. If convicted of all charges, the defendants face the following maximum sentences: D’Hulster faces 90 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine; Gathercole faces 140 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $1.5 million fine; Harrington faces 70 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $750,000 fine; and Schweitzer faces 50 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $500,000 fine.
Arthur Johnson, 44, of Coatesville, PA was charged by Complaint with fraud in connection with major disaster or emergency benefits. According to the Complaint, in July 2020, the defendant submitted a fraudulent application for benefits on behalf of an individual who, at the time, was incarcerated at the Chester County Prison. The application falsely stated that the applicant was unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but was otherwise available to work, if offered a job. In fact, the applicant had been incarcerated since October 2019. The defendant received a prepaid debit card loaded with approximately $13,500 in PUA benefits. All of the funds have been withdrawn. If convicted of all charges, Johnson faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.
In addition to the above, six inmates at State Correctional Institution Phoenix (SCIP), located within the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, were arrested on state charges as part of an ongoing investigation by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office: Jermaine Plumer received $18,264 worth of PUA paid out after he provided personal identifying information to non-incarcerated individuals; Rafael Rodriguez received $22,109 worth of PUA paid out after he provided personal identifying information to non-incarcerated individuals; Dwayne Washington received $3,510 worth of PUA paid out after he provided personal identifying information to a non-incarcerated individual; Leroy Barnes was never paid, but he did provide his personal identifying information to a non-incarcerated individual to have them complete a PUA application on his behalf; Andrew Simms was never paid, but he did provide his personal identifying information to a non-incarcerated individual to have them complete a PUA application on his behalf; and Dexter Pitts a/k/a Kevin Perry received $3,150 worth of PUA paid out after he provided his personal identifying information to a non-incarcerated individual.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Williams, Attorney General Shapiro and District Attorney Ryan thanked law enforcement officials at the Chester County Prison and officials at the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, the Pennsylvania Department of Treasury and the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections for their important assistance in these cases. The federal cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Judy Smith, Jeanette Kang, Anthony Wzorek, Jessica Rice, Anita Eve, Chris Mannion, and Melanie Wilmoth.
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.
Thursday 1 October 2020
“Father of Identity Theft” Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – After a week-long federal jury trial in September 2019, James Jackson, 58, of Memphis, Tennessee, was convicted of 13 counts of mail fraud, aggravated identity theft, access device fraud and theft of mail. Jackson has now been sentenced to 207 months in federal prison. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee announced the sentence today.
According to the information presented in court, in 2014-2015, Jackson devised a scheme to steal money from banks, financial companies and other individuals. Jackson obtained the personal identifying information of numerous individuals, most of whom were deceased, and used this information to take over the victims’ financial accounts (stock, credit card, and bank accounts). Jackson would search online obituaries and noteworthy articles to discover the identities of recently deceased individuals and then he would research the individuals to determine if they had any credit accounts or financial investment accounts. He would then impersonate the victims (both male and female) and use their information when contacting customer service representatives of banks, credit card companies and financial firms. Jackson would convince the businesses to mail new bank/credit cards to other addresses (vacant homes and hotels in Memphis area) and also caused the sale of over $340,000 of stock out of one victim’s investment account. Jackson recruited another individual to use the cards to withdraw funds from the victim accounts and to purchase gift cards.
On February 27, 2015, Jackson called the Cordova Post Office claiming to be a Charles Fulks and inquired about a credit card package that should have been delivered the day before to 10022 Cameron Ridge Trail. United States Postal Inspectors and members of the Tennessee Highway Patrol Identity Crimes Unit determined this was an imposter because the true Charles Fulks had died on February 2, 2015 and the 10022 Cameron Ridge Trail address was a vacant house at the time. Later, agents watched the package containing credit cards be delivered to the mailbox at 10022 Cameron Ridge Trail. Twelve hours later, agents observed Jackson emerge from a house at 10027 Cameron Ridge Trail and walk across the street to retrieve the credit card package from the mailbox and then went back into his residence. No one answered the door when agents announced their presence. Later, agents noticed smoke coming out of the home. Agents eventually located Jackson in the house pretending to be asleep. Numerous small fires had been set throughout the house in what appeared to be an attempt to destroy evidence. In the home, agents located items associated with identity theft, including documents and a guide entitled "How to Find Anyone and Anything" and computers. A search of Jackson’s computers revealed that he had been researching the deceased victims. This was done through use of numerous online obituary sites and nationwide news articles. In a subsequent search of Jackson’s mother’s house, agents found a box of Jackson’s business cards, wherein he claimed to be the "Father of Identity Theft."
In August 2018, Jackson was arrested again in Charlotte, North Carolina, while attempting to purchase a $43,000 Corvette using the name and personal information of a recently deceased individual.
Jackson had prior federal convictions for mail fraud, credit card fraud and bank fraud from the Southern District of New York and mail fraud, credit card fraud and social security fraud from the Western District of Tennessee. Jackson’s life and fraud schemes were highlighted in a 2004 book entitled "Your Evil Twin- Behind the Identity Theft Epidemic."
On September 30, 2020, U.S. District Court Judge John T. Fowlkes, Jr., sentenced Jackson to 207 months in federal prison followed by 5 years supervised release. Jackson was also ordered to pay over $300,000 in restitution. There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Aggravated identity theft and schemes to defraud or compromise the personal and financial security of vulnerable and deceased victims will not be tolerated. This case demonstrates our commitment to protect the personal and financial information of citizens and institutions, and to hold offenders accountable for these disturbing crimes of dishonesty. This self-proclaimed ‘Father of Identity Theft’ will now have to change his name to ‘Father Time’, because he will be doing plenty of it in federal prison."
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Tennessee Highway Patrol and the Memphis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hall prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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Worcester Man Indicted on Charges of Civil Disorder and Possession of an Unregistered FirearmRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Worcester, Mass. man was indicted by a grand jury today with civil disorder and possession of a Molotov cocktail during a demonstration in the City of Worcester over the death of George Floyd.
Vincent Eovacious, 18, was indicted today on one count of civil disorder and one count of possession of an unregistered firearm. Eovacious was arrested and charged by criminal complaint on June 3, 2020.
According to charging documents, on June 1, 2020, crowds gathered at various locations in Worcester to protest the death of George Floyd, including South Main Street. At approximately 10:00 p.m., a large crowd blocked traffic and began throwing objects in the direction of the police. As officers on scene gathered into a line formation, one officer observed a man dressed in a trench coat standing on top of a building at 848 Main Street which is clearly marked, “No Trespassing.” The man, later identified as Eovacious, allegedly yelled for the crowd below to kill the police and paced back and forth on the rooftop. The officer then observed Eovacious remove a bottle from his satchel that appeared to contain liquid and attempt to insert a rag into the bottle while holding a silver object that the officer believed to be a lighter. Minutes later, officers observed Eovacious walking in the area of May and Main Streets, still carrying the satchel, and stopped him. According to court documents, officers searched the satchel and recovered three clear glass bottles with a slightly yellow liquid that smelled of gasoline, five white rags, one green lighter and one silver lighter. Eovacious stated that the liquid in the glass bottles was gasoline and that he was “with the anarchist group” and was “waiting for an opportunity.”
The civil disorder charge provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine $250,000. The charge of unlawful possession of a firearm provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, 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; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Worcester Police Chief Steven M. Sargent made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Greg Friedholm and Danial Bennett, of Lelling’s Worcester Branch Office, are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Wolf Point woman sentenced for trafficking pain pills on Fort Peck Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS — A Wolf Point woman who admitted selling large quantities of the pain medication, oxycodone, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 15 months in prison and two years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Jennifer Lee Marie Walkingeagle, 30, pleaded guilty in June to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said Walkingeagle's vehicle was stopped for speeding on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation on April 30, 2019. Walkingeagle told the trooper she did not have a license and provided a false name. The trooper ticketed Walkingeagle and allowed one of the passengers to drive the vehicle.
The trooper subsequently learned Walkingeagle's true identity and that she had an active tribal court warrant. The trooper found the vehicle in a driveway of a residence, conducted an investigation on scene and searched the vehicle with Walkingeagle's consent. The officer found 251 oxycodone pills and other items in the vehicle.
Walkingeagle admitted during an interview to traveling to Williston, N.D., to meet her drug supplier, who was traveling by train from Chicago. Walkingeagle distributed oxycodone pills on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation from January 2019 to May 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassady Adams prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice, and Montana Highway Patrol.
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Wisconsin Pain Management Companies to Settle False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice announced today that Advanced Pain Management Holdings Inc. (APMH), its wholly-owned subsidiaries, APM Wisconsin MSO (“APM MSO”) and Advanced Pain Management LLC (APM LLC); and Advanced Pain Management S.C. (APMSC) (collectively the “APM Entities”) have agreed to pay $885,452 to settle claims that they violated the False Claims Act by paying kickbacks and by performing medically unnecessary laboratory tests. The APM Entities are headquartered in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area.
“Healthcare providers must make recommendations about their patients’ health without respect to their own financial interests,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey Bossert Clark for the Department of Justice’s Civil Division. “We will continue to do our part to protect federal health care program beneficiaries and the American taxpayers from the corrupting influence of kickbacks designed to undermine the impartiality and integrity of physician decision making.”
“The financial arrangements pursued by APMH wrongly gave physicians an incentive to make medical decisions based on their own financial interests, rather than their patients’ interests,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Krueger for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. “Medicare and Medicaid only pay for procedures and tests that are medically necessary and untainted by kickbacks. This settlement reflects our office’s continuing efforts to combat violations of the False Claims Act and improper arrangements under the Anti-Kickback Statute.”
“It is imperative that the public has faith and trust that the decisions made by medical providers are based upon the best interests of their patients” said Lamont Pugh III, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General – Chicago Region. “The specter of a payment of a kickback in any form or fashion diminishes that faith and trust and can lead to the improper payment and wasting of limited taxpayer dollars. The OIG will continue to work with our investigative partners to ensure the continued integrity of federally funded health care programs.”
The United States alleged that APMH improperly gifted shares of incentive stock to non-employee APMSC physicians who performed pain management procedures at APMH’s ambulatory surgical centers. The incentive stock was to be redeemed upon a sale of APMH and was dependent on the profitability of APMH, which was determined largely by referrals from the non-employee physicians. The incentive stock was allegedly given as a reward for past and anticipated referrals to APMH’s ambulatory service centers.
The United States further contended that APMH paid non-employee APMSC physicians to serve as medical directors in a manner that was tied to the volume of procedures at APMH’s ambulatory surgery centers. There were no written agreements documenting the services the medical directors were to provide, and the medical directors were not required to record or report any medical director functions.
The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting or receiving remuneration to induce referrals of items or services covered by federally funded programs. The Anti-Kickback Statute is intended to ensure that a physician’s medical judgment is not compromised by improper financial incentives and is instead based on the best interests of the patient.
The United States alleged that the APM Entities performed confirmatory urine drug tests that were medically unnecessary. For certain claims, providers allegedly failed to customize orders for confirmatory urine drug tests based on each patient’s individualized risk assessment and circumstances, resulting in a higher level of testing than supported by the medical record. The APM Entities disclosed these improper urine drug test claims to the Department of Health and Human Services.
The settlement resolves allegations originally brought in a lawsuit filed by a whistleblower under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, which allow private parties to bring suit on behalf of the government and to share in any recovery. The whistleblower will receive $142,152 as her share of the federal recovery in this case.
The APM Entities settlement with the United States is based on their ability to pay, and is part of a broader settlement that also resolves various state law claims.
The case was handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin with assistance from the Justice Department’s Civil Division, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
The lawsuit is captioned United States, et al. ex rel. Hedstrom v. Advanced Pain Mgmt., et al., Case No. 13-C-556 (E.D. Wisc.). The claims settled by this agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
White Plains Financial Adviser Arrested for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney Jr., the Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced that GREGG BRIE, a White Plains financial adviser, was arrested this morning and charged with securities fraud and wire fraud arising out of his embezzlement of more than $640,000 from two victims who had entrusted money to him for investment. BRIE will be presented before United States Magistrate Judge Paul E. Davison in White Plains federal court later today.
Acting U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said: “As alleged, Gregg Brie stole money so he could live a lavish lifestyle. This Office is committed to rooting out fraudulent investments in order to preserve the integrity of our capital markets.”
FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “The charges today allege that Gregg Brie is an embezzler. If you trusted Mr. Brie to invest your money, and believe you might be an additional victim of his actions, we urge you to call us at 1-800-CALL-FBI.”
According to the allegations contained in the Complaint[1]:
BRIE embezzled funds from two victims, both of whom lived in his White Plains apartment complex. He advised his first victim, a disabled man on a fixed income and confined to a wheelchair, to buy shares in Alaska Air Group, Inc. Bank records show that this victim gave BRIE more than $480,000. BRIE told his victim that he had opened accounts for him at a brokerage firm and that his stock had increased in value to approximately $8 million. When the victim asked for his money, BRIE told him that his accounts were frozen because the stockbrokers had done something “sketchy” in order to buy the shares at a lower price. When the victim attempted to contact the brokerage firm, BRIE told him that he would “murder [him]” if the victim attempted to contact the firm again. BRIE repeated this threat at least two more times, noting that he meant his threats to be taken “literally, not metaphorically.”
According to written loan agreements drafted by BRIE, the second victim made three loans to BRIE in a total amount of approximately $157,000 “for the purpose of producing and distributing a proprietary, composite unimold commode for use within indigent venues of the African nation of Uganda.”
The FBI’s analysis of bank accounts controlled by BRIE showed that BRIE spent the money he obtained from his two victims primarily on credit cards and a Mercedes Benz lease. The evidence showed that there was no brokerage account.
* * *
BRIE, 53, of White Plains, New York, faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison on the securities fraud count and 20 years in prison on the wire fraud count.
The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Ms. Strauss praised the investigative work of the FBI.
The criminal case is being prosecuted by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James McMahon and Shiva Logarajah are in charge of the prosecution.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the descriptions of the Complaint set forth below constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
West Virginia physician admits to illegally distributing drugsRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dr. Felix Brizuela, Jr., of Harrison City, Pennsylvania, has admitted to illegally distributing controlled substances, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Brizuela, age 59, of Harrison City, Pennsylvania, pled guilty today to one count of “Distribution of Controlled Substances Outside the Bounds of Professional Medical Practice.” Brizuela admitted to illegally distributing oxycodone in Monongalia County in August 2013. Based upon the plea agreement, Brizuela was sentenced to time served and three years of supervised release, during which time he is not permitted to seek authority to prescribe any medications or controlled substances.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah E. Wagner and Robert H. McWilliams, Jr. are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of Inspector General at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, WV Offices of the Insurance Commissioner Fraud Division, WV Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Office of Ohio Attorney General Health Care Fraud, Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, the Hancock-Brook-Weirton Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, the Greater Harrison County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, West Virginia State Police, the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, and the Weirton Police Department investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.West Virginia Pharmacist Sentenced to 120 Months for Drug Trafficking in Eastern KentuckyRead the Press Release
PIKEVILLE, KY- - Jackson Noel, 62, a pharmacist operating Buffalo Drug Inc., located in Buffalo, West Virginia, was sentenced in federal court on Wednesday, to 120 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for conspiring to illegally dispense and distribute oxycodone and oxymorphone.
Evidence at trial established that as part of the conspiracy Noel unlawfully dispensed oxycodone and oxymorphone pills from the pharmacy to out-of-state customers, including customers from Kentucky. Noel dispensed the pills on a cash only basis.
According to evidence at trial, Noel began conspiring and distributing the drugs in June 2015 through December 2016 in Pike County, the Eastern District of Kentucky, and elsewhere.
Noel pleaded guilty in September 2019.
Noel will be required to pay $100,000 in community restitution. Under federal law, Noel must serve 85 percent of their prison sentence. Upon his release, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jeffrey T. Scott , Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; Daniel Cameron, Attorney General of Kentucky; and Rodney Brewer, Commissioner, Kentucky State Police jointly announced the jury’s verdict.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA, KSP, Kentucky Office of the Attorney General, the Putnam County, West Virginia, Sheriff’s Office, and the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Dotson.
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Waterloo Man Sentenced to More Than Nine Years in Prison for Possessing Sawed-Off WeaponRead the Press Release
A man who unlawfully possessed a sawed-off shotgun was sentenced on September 30, 2020, to nearly a decade in federal prison.
Richard Jacobson, age 56, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison sentence after a guilty plea to unlawful possession of a sawed-off shotgun. Statements at sentencing showed that Jacobson, while high on methamphetamine, repeatedly racked or cocked the weapon while threatening to shoot at least one other person. The judge who sentenced Jacobson, United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams, characterized Jacobson’s conduct as both “threatening and terrifying.” The judge also noted that Jacobson had a “remarkably high number of adult felony convictions.”
Jacobson has previously been convicted of fourteen felony offenses. Those include multiple convictions for burglary and other violent crimes. He also has multiple prior convictions related to unlawfully possessing dangerous weapons.
Jacobson was sentenced to 115 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jacob Schunk and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Waterloo Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-2068.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
United States Obtains Final Judgment and Permanent Injunction Against Edward SnowdenRead the Press Release
On Sept. 29, 2020, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia entered a final judgment and permanent injunction against Edward Snowden, a former employee of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and contractor for the National Security Agency (NSA).
In September 2019, the United States filed a lawsuit against Snowden, who published a book entitled Permanent Record in violation of the non-disclosure agreements he signed with both CIA and NSA. The lawsuit alleged that Snowden published his book without submitting it to the agencies for pre-publication review, in violation of his express obligations under the agreements he signed. Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that Snowden has given public speeches on intelligence-related matters, also in violation of his non-disclosure agreements.
The United States’ lawsuit did not seek to stop or restrict the publication or distribution of Permanent Record. Rather, under well-established Supreme Court precedent, Snepp v. United States, the government sought to recover all proceeds earned by Snowden because of his failure to submit his publication for pre-publication review in violation of his alleged contractual and fiduciary obligations.
In December 2019, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, found in favor of the United States in the suit against Snowden on the issue of liability and held that Snowden breached his contractual and fiduciary obligations to the CIA and NSA by publishing Permanent Record and giving prepared remarks within the scope of his pre-publication review obligations, but reserved judgment on the scope of these violations or the remedies due to the government. On Tuesday, the court entered judgment in the government’s favor in an amount exceeding $5.2 million and imposed a constructive trust for the benefit of the United States over those sums and any further monies, royalties, or other financial advantages derived by Snowden from Permanent Record and 56 specific speeches.
“Edward Snowden violated his legal obligations to the United States, and therefore, his unlawful financial gains must be relinquished to the government,” said Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen. “As this case demonstrates, the Department of Justice will not overlook the wrongful actions of those who seek to betray the trust reposed in them and to personally profit from their access to classified national security information.”
“Intelligence information should protect our nation, not provide personal profit,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “This judgment will ensure that Edward Snowden receives no monetary benefits from breaching the trust placed in him.”
“We will pursue those who take advantage of sensitive positions in government to profit from the classified information learned during their government service,” said Jeffrey Bossert Clark, Acting Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Division.
This lawsuit is separate from the criminal charges brought against Snowden for his alleged disclosures of classified information. This lawsuit is a civil action, and based solely on Snowden’s failure to comply with the clear pre-publication review obligations included in his signed non-disclosure agreements.
This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and the Department of Justice’s Civil Division.
United States Obtains Final Judgement and Permanent Injunction Against Edward SnowdenRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – On Tuesday, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia entered a final judgement and permanent injunction against Edward Snowden, a former employee of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and contractor for the National Security Agency (NSA).
“Edward Snowden violated his legal obligations to the United States, and therefore, his unlawful financial gains must be relinquished to the government,” said Jeffrey A. Rosen, Deputy Attorney General of the United States. “As this case demonstrates, the Department of Justice will not overlook the wrongful actions of those who seek to betray the trust reposed in them and to personally profit from their access to classified national security information.”
In September 2019, the United States filed a lawsuit against Snowden, who published a book entitled Permanent Record in violation of the non-disclosure agreements he signed with both CIA and NSA. The lawsuit alleged that Snowden published his book without submitting it to the agencies for pre-publication review, in violation of his express obligations under the agreements he signed. Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that Snowden has given public speeches on intelligence-related matters, also in violation of his non-disclosure agreements.
“Intelligence information should protect our nation, not provide personal profit,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “This judgment will ensure that Edward Snowden receives no monetary benefits from breaching the trust placed in him.”
The United States’ lawsuit did not seek to stop or restrict the publication or distribution of Permanent Record. Rather, under well-established Supreme Court precedent, Snepp v. United States, the government sought to recover all proceeds earned by Snowden because of his failure to submit his publication for pre-publication review in violation of his alleged contractual and fiduciary obligations.
“We will pursue those who take advantage of sensitive positions in government to profit from the classified information learned during their government service,” said Jeffrey Bossert Clark, Acting Assistant Attorney General of the Civil Division.
In December 2019, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia found in favor of the United States in the suit against Snowden on the issue of liability. The Court held that Snowden breached his contractual and fiduciary obligations to the CIA and NSA by publishing Permanent Record and giving prepared remarks within the scope of his pre-publication review obligations, but reserved judgment on the scope of these violations or the remedies due to the government.
On Tuesday, the Court entered judgment in the government’s favor in an amount exceeding $5.2 million and imposed a constructive trust for the benefit of the United States over those sums and any further monies, royalties, or other financial advantages derived by Snowden from Permanent Record and 56 specific speeches.
This lawsuit is separate from the criminal charges brought against Snowden for his alleged disclosures of classified information. This lawsuit is a civil action, and based solely on Snowden’s failure to comply with the clear pre-publication review obligations included in his signed non-disclosure agreements.
The resolutions obtained in this matter were the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and the Justice Department’s Civil Division.
A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
U.S. Attorney’s Office honors Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
Indianapolis – United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced today that the U.S. Attorney’s Office Southern District of Indiana will be honoring Domestic Violence Awareness Month during October. Each week, the office will highlight specific Department of Justice grants that have been awarded to various agencies throughout the southern district to help combat domestic violence. The office is providing all employees with information and training on domestic violence issues within the district, and later on in the month employees will be volunteering at a community service project to benefit Thomas Gregg Neighborhood School.
“Domestic violence is such a devastating crime that reaches every area of society,” said Minkler. “The abuse comes in many forms and is directed toward every sex, culture, race, and religion. This office will continue to prosecute those who choose to inflict pain and suffering on innocent victims and we intend to bring awareness to this critical issue during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.”
The United States Attorney reaffirms the office’s commitment to prosecuting and preventing gun crime at the hands of domestic abusers. Some notable cases include:
- United States v. Brian Jones, Case No. 19-cr-258: Law enforcement responded to a 911 call for help. When they arrived at the Indianapolis location, the victim told them Brian Jones, her ex-boyfriend, broke into her house, pointed a gun at her and her minor children and threatened to kill them all. Upon arrest, law enforcement found a loaded 9 mm semiautomatic handgun on Jones. A criminal history check revealed that Jones had eight prior felony convictions and was on supervised release for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon out of the Southern District of Ohio. On August 7, 2020, Jones, an Ohio resident, was convicted of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and was sentenced to 96 months’ imprisonment.
- United States v. Mauro Martinez-Diaz, Case No. 19-cr-49: Law enforcement responded to a domestic violence call. When they arrived at the Indianapolis location, the victim stated that Martinez-Diaz had returned from a party and became upset when she refused to cook food for him. She reported that the defendant then choked her, dragged her around the apartment by her hair, and kicked her with his feet while she was on the floor. Upon arrest, law enforcement found a loaded .40 semiautomatic handgun on the defendant. Martinez-Diaz, who is a citizen of Mexico and was found to be in the U.S. illegally, was indicted on February 20, 2019, for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by an Alien Illegally or Unlawfully in the United States.
- United States v. Calvin Washington, Case No. 20-cr-236: Law enforcement responded to a domestic violence call. After they arrived at the Indianapolis location, Washington fled, discarding a loaded .380 caliber semiautomatic handgun in a kitchen trash can and throwing an 8-month-old baby to the ground. He was apprehended shortly thereafter. Washington, a resident of Indianapolis, was indicted on September 23, 2020, for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month first began in 1981 as a day of unity by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, which quickly evolved into a full week. Then in 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Week took place. In 1994, Congress passed the Violence Against Women Act, which combined new provisions that hold offenders accountable and provide programs and services for victims.
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence defines domestic violence as the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another. It includes physical violence, sexual violence, threats, and emotional abuse. The frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary dramatically.
The CDC reports:
- 1 in 5 women and 1 in 7 men report having experienced severe physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime.
- 1 in 5 women and 1 in 12 men have experienced contact sexual violence by an intimate partner.
- 10% of women and 2% of men report having been stalked by an intimate partner.
If you are in crisis, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) TTY 1-800-787-3224 or www.TheHotline.org
- United States v. Brian Jones, Case No. 19-cr-258: Law enforcement responded to a 911 call for help. When they arrived at the Indianapolis location, the victim told them Brian Jones, her ex-boyfriend, broke into her house, pointed a gun at her and her minor children and threatened to kill them all. Upon arrest, law enforcement found a loaded 9 mm semiautomatic handgun on Jones. A criminal history check revealed that Jones had eight prior felony convictions and was on supervised release for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon out of the Southern District of Ohio. On August 7, 2020, Jones, an Ohio resident, was convicted of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and was sentenced to 96 months’ imprisonment.
U.S. Attorney Strasser Announces Awards Totaling over 4.4 Million Dollars to Support Offenders Returning to Communities in the Eastern DistrictRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser today announced over 4.4 million dollars in Department of Justice grants to reduce recidivism among adults and juvenile offenders returning to their communities in the Eastern District of Louisiana after confinement. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, are part of more than $92 million in funding to support reentry efforts throughout the United States.
These awards represent President Trump’s commitment to assisting people in America’s prisons and detention facilities who have earned the opportunity to take their places back in society.
“Former offenders are ultimately responsible for their own successes and failures, but our criminal and juvenile justice systems have an important role to play in preparing them for the obstacles that lie before them,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “I’m very pleased to make these resources available to help them get back on their feet and contribute to the prosperity of their communities and the betterment of our nation.”
The reentry and recidivism reduction grants awarded will help communities develop and implement comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by reentry and recidivism; support reentry services for detained juveniles and incarcerated parents with children under the age of 18; and support research and evaluation programs to advance understanding about reoffending.
“Recidivism poses an extreme threat to our community and places a heavy burden upon society,” said U.S. Attorney Strasser. “Formerly incarcerated offenders need and deserve additional support to assist their transition back into mainstream society. This funding will help our communities develop and implement re-entry strategies that will greatly benefit formerly incarcerated offenders and the community as a whole.”
The following organizations received funding:
- Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections $2,449,780
- Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana, Inc. $749,994
- Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections $498,759
- Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office $749,022
For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/reentryfactsheet.pdf.More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.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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U.S. Attorney Schroder Announces Nearly $1 Million to Combat Elder Fraud and Abuse in AlaskaRead the Press Release
Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Schroder announced today $997,764 in Department of Justice grants to combat elder abuse and financial fraud targeted at seniors across the Alaska. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), are part of over $9 million in funding to support these efforts throughout the United States. Elder abuse is an intentional or negligent act by any person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to an older adult. Attorney General William P. Barr announced the awards on the 30th anniversary of the International Day of Older Persons.
“Predators who target older citizens for fraud, financial scams and physical abuse are particularly despicable, turning the golden years of our nation’s seniors into a period of poverty and suffering,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The Department of Justice is taking aggressive action, pursuing all legal avenues to bring these criminals to justice and supporting law enforcement officials and service providers as they ferret out scam artists, arrest abusers, and bring aid and relief to victims.”
Under the direction of Attorney General Barr, the Department of Justice is attacking elder fraud and abuse from all sides. A National Elder Justice Coordinator oversees the department’s work to combat elder fraud, and each of the 94 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices has a prosecutor dedicated to addressing elder justice issues. This past March, the Attorney General announced the results of the largest elder fraud sweep ever conducted, with prosecutors charging more than 400 defendants and the charged elder fraud schemes causing alleged losses of over a billion dollars. Also in March, he launched a national initiative to pursue nursing homes that provide grossly substandard care and a National Elder Fraud Hotline managed by OJP’s Office for Victims of Crime.
“The US Attorney’s Office recognizes that our Elders are often targets of financial fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Schroder, “Today, as we celebrate International Older Persons Day, we restate our commitment to prosecute those who would take advantage of our senior population.”
“With lockdowns in place across the country, older adults are especially vulnerable to fraud, neglect and abuse, and criminals have not hesitated to take full advantage,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “These grants, which build on previous Department of Justice investments, will help to turn the tide of deception and predation and restore victims to fiscal security and physical safety.”
The following organizations received funding:
- Alaska Native Justice Center, $500,000
- Fairbanks Area Native Association, $497,764
More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
U.S. Attorney Michael Bailey Announces over $4.1 Million in Grants to Improve Public Safety, Serve Crime Victims in ArizonaRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – United States Attorney Michael Bailey today announced over $4.1 million in Department of Justice grants to improve public safety, serve victims of crime and support youth programs in tribal communities in Arizona.
“American Indian and Alaska Native communities experience rates of violent crime and domestic abuse that are among the highest in the nation,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The awards announced today underscore the Department of Justice’s deep commitment to improving public safety in tribal communities throughout the United States. This administration will continue to work closely with our tribal partners to guarantee that they have the resources they need to combat violence and bring criminals to justice.”
A total of more than $103 million is being awarded to tribes across the country under the Justice Department’s Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation. CTAS supports activities that enhance law enforcement and tribal justice practices, expand victim services and sustain crime prevention and intervention efforts. CTAS grants are administered by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs ($41.5 million), Office on Violence Against Women ($39.1 million) and Office of Community Oriented Policing Services ($22.5 million).
An additional $113 million is being awarded to 133 applicants nationwide under the Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Program. This program, managed by OJP’s Office for Victims of Crime, is designed to help tribes develop, expand and improve services to victims of crime and promote other public safety initiatives.
“Public safety officials and victim service providers in Indian country face exceptional challenges, but they bring to their work an extraordinary array of skills and resources that enable them to meet and overcome any obstacle,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “The Office of Justice Programs is proud to help fulfill Attorney General Barr's strong commitment – and the federal government's long-standing responsibility – to our tribal partners in the matter of their citizens' safety and wellbeing.”
In addition to the CTAS and Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside awards, the Office on Violence Against Women is making additional tribal awards of more than $31 million to support a wide range of efforts to address the crimes of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking.
“OVW’s funding supports Native American and Alaska Native communities as they work across their communities to prevent and respond to gender based violence,” said OVW Principal Deputy Director Laura L. Rogers. “These awards represent the strong commitment that OVW has made to help protect the most vulnerable members of tribal communities.”
Additional awards to support tribal public safety efforts are being made by OJP and the COPS Office. These grants will provide community policing training and other training and technical assistance. Awards will also address the needs of tribal youth, fund tribal reentry efforts, help tribes combat substance abuse and manage sex offenders, and support tribal research. In addition, funds support efforts in 17 tribal communities to address the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
“Ensuring our nation’s tribal communities have the resources they need is paramount for the COPS Office and the Department of Justice,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “These awards are a critical component to the overall public safety strategy for tribal law enforcement and the COPS Office is honored to provide vital resources to hire more sworn officer positions, advance tribal training and procure equipment needed to keep communities safe.”
The following organizations in the District of Arizona received funding:
- Fort Mojave Indian Tribe (COPS) - $893,450
- Hualapai Detention and Rehabilitation Center (OVW) - $900,000
- Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community (COPS) - $894,463
- San Carlos Apache Tribe (OJJDP) - $400,000
- The Hopi Tribe (OVW) - $900,000
- Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe (COPS) - $158,700
A full listing of all the announced CTAS awards is available here.
A full listing of all Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Program awards is available here.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2020-077_Public Safety Grants
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.U.S. Attorney Michael Bailey Announces $2.3 Million to Support Offenders Returning to Communities in the District of ArizonaRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – U.S. Attorney Michael Bailey this week announced over $2.3 million in Department of Justice grants to reduce recidivism among adults and juvenile offenders returning to their communities in the District of Arizona after confinement. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, are part of more than $92 million in funding to support reentry efforts throughout the United States.
These awards represent President Trump’s commitment to assisting people in America’s prisons and detention facilities who have earned the opportunity to take their places back in society.
“Former offenders are ultimately responsible for their own successes and failures, but our criminal and juvenile justice systems have an important role to play in preparing them for the obstacles that lie before them,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “I’m very pleased to make these resources available to help them get back on their feet and contribute to the prosperity of their communities and the betterment of our nation.”
The reentry and recidivism reduction grants awarded will help communities develop and implement comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by reentry and recidivism; support reentry services for detained juveniles and incarcerated parents with children under the age of 18; and support research and evaluation programs to advance understanding about reoffending.
The following organizations in Arizona received funding:
- Arizona Department of Correction, Rehabilitation Reentry - $1,873,822
- Navajo Nation Judicial Branch - $500,000
For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/reentryfactsheet.pdf.
More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2020-076_Reentry Grants
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.U.S. Attorney Michael Bailey Announces $1.5 Million to Combat Elder Fraud and Abuse in ArizonaRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – United States Attorney Michael Bailey today announced $1.5 million in Department of Justice grants to combat elder abuse and financial fraud targeted at seniors across the Arizona. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), are part of over $9 million in funding to support these efforts throughout the United States. Elder abuse is an intentional or negligent act by any person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to an older adult. Attorney General William P. Barr announced the awards on the 30th anniversary of the International Day of Older Persons.
“Predators who target older citizens for fraud, financial scams and physical abuse are particularly despicable, turning the golden years of our nation’s seniors into a period of poverty and suffering,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The Department of Justice is taking aggressive action, pursuing all legal avenues to bring these criminals to justice and supporting law enforcement officials and service providers as they ferret out scam artists, arrest abusers, and bring aid and relief to victims.”
Under the direction of Attorney General Barr, the Department of Justice is attacking elder fraud and abuse from all sides. A National Elder Justice Coordinator oversees the department’s work to combat elder fraud, and each of the 94 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices has a prosecutor dedicated to addressing elder justice issues. This past March, the Attorney General announced the results of the largest elder fraud sweep ever conducted, with prosecutors charging more than 400 defendants and the charged elder fraud schemes causing alleged losses of over a billion dollars. Also in March, he launched a national initiative to pursue nursing homes that provide grossly substandard care and a National Elder Fraud Hotline managed by OJP’s Office for Victims of Crime.
“With lockdowns in place across the country, older adults are especially vulnerable to fraud, neglect and abuse, and criminals have not hesitated to take full advantage,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “These grants, which build on previous Department of Justice investments, will help to turn the tide of deception and predation and restore victims to fiscal security and physical safety.”
The following organizations received funding in the District of Arizona:
- Apache Behavioral Health Services, Inc. - $499,252
- Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of ASU - $1,035,328
More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.RELEASE NUMBER: 2020-079_Elder Fraud and Abuse Grants
- Apache Behavioral Health Services, Inc. - $499,252
U.S. Attorney Lawrence Keefe Announces over $2.6 Million to Support Offenders Returning to Area CommunitiesRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Lawrence Keefe, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, today announced $2,662,713 in Department of Justice grants to area programs to reduce recidivism among adults and juvenile offenders returning to their communities after confinement. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), are part of more than $92 million in funding to support reentry efforts throughout the United States.
These awards represent the Justice Department’s commitment to assisting people in America’s prisons and detention facilities who have earned the opportunity to take their places back in society.
“I am proud that we are able to make more than $2.6 million available within Northern Florida to help offenders fully reintegrate into their communities,” said U.S. Attorney Keefe. “The key to reducing crime is preventing offenders from committing further crimes, and the best way we can do that is by helping them succeed as they return to their communities and establish law-abiding lives.”
The reentry and recidivism reduction grant awards will help communities develop and implement comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by reentry and recidivism; support reentry services for detained juveniles and incarcerated parents with children under the age of 18; and support research and evaluation programs to advance understanding about reoffending.
“Former offenders are ultimately responsible for their own successes and failures, but our criminal and juvenile justice systems have an important role to play in preparing them for the obstacles that lie before them,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “I’m very pleased to make these resources available to help them get back on their feet and contribute to the prosperity of their communities and the betterment of our nation.”
The following organizations received funding in the Northern District of Florida:
- DISC Village, Incorporated - $899,995
- Improving Reentry for Adults with Substance Use Disorders Program
- Florida Department of Corrections - $500,000
- Adult Reentry and Employment Strategic Planning Program
- Florida Department of Juvenile Justice - $750,000
- Second Chance Act, Youth Offender Reentry Program
- Florida State University - $512,718
- Research on Juvenile Reoffending Program
For a complete national list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/reentryfactsheet.pdf
Additional information about FY 2020 grant awards made by the Office of Justice Programs can be found online at the OJP Awards Data Webpage.
The Office of Justice Programs provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Press Release - DOJ Reentry GrantsU.S. Attorney John C. Anderson announces $680,391 to support offenders returning to communities in Bernalillo County, New MexicoRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – U.S. Attorney John C. Anderson today announced $680,391 in Department of Justice grants to reduce recidivism among adults and juvenile offenders returning to their communities in Bernalillo County, New Mexico, after confinement. The grants, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), are part of more than $92 million in funding to support reentry efforts throughout the United States.
Bernalillo County will receive these funds under the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s Second Chance Act Addressing the Needs of Incarcerated Parents with Minor Children Program, which supports the successful and safe transition of young fathers and mothers from confinement to their families and communities.
“The goal of rehabilitation is that, once a person has served a sentence, he or she will return to society as a productive and law abiding citizen,” said Anderson. “For individuals with children, part of that means returning to the responsibilities of parenting. That includes not only providing for a family, but playing an integral role in the development of their children, leading to better outcomes generationally for families and communities. This grant funds services to help parents reach those objectives.”
“Former offenders are ultimately responsible for their own successes and failures, but our criminal and juvenile justice systems have an important role to play in preparing them for the obstacles that lie before them,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “I’m very pleased to make these resources available to help them get back on their feet and contribute to the prosperity of their communities and the betterment of our nation.”
The reentry and recidivism reduction grants awarded will help communities develop and implement comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by reentry and recidivism; support reentry services for detained juveniles and incarcerated parents with children under the age of 18; and support research and evaluation programs to advance understanding about reoffending.
More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
This year 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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U.S. Attorney Halsey Frank Announces Federal Grants to Fight Violence against Women in MaineRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: U.S. Attorney Halsey Frank today announced the Department of Justice has awarded more than $5.5 million in federal funding for groups that are committed to ending violence against women in Maine.
The funding that was announced by the Department’s Office of Violence Against Women (OVW) will be distributed among almost a dozen groups around the state and is detailed in the table below:
Organization
Award Amount
Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault
$152,345
Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence
$91,274
University of Maine System
(acting through University of Southern Maine)
$600,000
University of Maine System
(acting through University of Maine at Farmington)
$299,735
New Hope for Women
$515,000
Caring Unlimited
$898,496
Partners for Peace
$510,253
Maine Department of Health & Human Services
$388,589
State of Maine
$1,082,160
Wabanaki Women’s Coalition
$353,615
U.S. Attorney Frank earlier this week announced the award of a $770,467 grant to the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township to battle domestic violence.
“I am very pleased to learn of the announcement of this funding,” Frank said. “Although great strides have been made in raising awareness about the problem of domestic violence in Maine, much more work remains to be done. It is my hope that this federal funding will help these Maine organizations in their ongoing efforts to end violence against women here in Maine.”
“It is absolutely essential, as a society, to work together to prevent violence,” said OVW Principal Deputy Director Laura Rogers. “We are proud to do our part to support the people of Maine as we all join together to keep victims safe and hold offenders accountable for their crimes.”
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 Erica H. MacDonald Announces Federal Grant to Combat Elder Fraud and Abuse in MinnesotaRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced that a nearly half a million dollar Department of Justice grant has been awarded to the Minnesota Elder Justice Center to combat elder abuse and financial fraud targeted at seniors across Minnesota. The $499,981 grant, awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), is part of over $9 million in funding to support these efforts throughout the United States. Elder abuse is an intentional or negligent act by any person that causes harm or a serious risk of harm to an older adult. Attorney General William P. Barr announced the awards on the 30th anniversary of the International Day of Older Persons.
“I am excited to see nearly half a million dollars awarded to an organization that is a steadfast resource and champion for elder justice,” said U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald. “My office and the Department of Justice are committed to protecting older Americans from abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. They raised us. They took care of us. Now we have to take care of them.”
“Predators who target older citizens for fraud, financial scams and physical abuse are particularly despicable, turning the golden years of our nation’s seniors into a period of poverty and suffering,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The Department of Justice is taking aggressive action, pursuing all legal avenues to bring these criminals to justice and supporting law enforcement officials and service providers as they ferret out scam artists, arrest abusers, and bring aid and relief to victims.”
“With lockdowns in place across the country, older adults are especially vulnerable to fraud, neglect and abuse, and criminals have not hesitated to take full advantage,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “These grants, which build on previous Department of Justice investments, will help to turn the tide of deception and predation and restore victims to fiscal security and physical safety.”
Under the direction of Attorney General Barr, the Department of Justice is attacking elder fraud and abuse from all sides. A National Elder Justice Coordinator oversees the department’s work to combat elder fraud, and each of the 94 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices has a prosecutor dedicated to addressing elder justice issues. This past March, the Attorney General announced the results of the largest elder fraud sweep ever conducted, with prosecutors charging more than 400 defendants and the charged elder fraud schemes causing alleged losses of over a billion dollars. Also in March, he launched a national initiative to pursue nursing homes that provide grossly substandard care and a National Elder Fraud Hotline managed by OJP’s Office for Victims of Crime.
Earlier this year, U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald released a public service announcement, aimed at raising awareness and reaching potential victims of elder fraud and abuse.
FY 2020 grants awarded by OVC and NIJ further the department's mission and priorities by funding direct victim services and research projects that enhance the field's response to victims of elder abuse and financial exploitation. Specific programs being funded include the following:
- OVC’s Enhancing Services for Older Victims of Abuse and Financial Exploitation program awards nearly $6 million to 12 organizations to support communities in providing services to older victims of abuse and exploitation using trauma-informed approaches that protect the safety and confidentiality of victims.
- OVC’s Training for Law Enforcement to Improve Identification of and Response to Elder Fraud Victims program (previously announced) awarded over $1.9 million to provide training and technical assistance to enhance law enforcement's ability to identify elder fraud victims, connect those victims with available services, and bring the fraudsters to justice.
- NIJ’s Research on the Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of Elderly Individuals program awarded over $1.4 million to two recipients to fund research projects to, respectively, better differentiate physical abuse of elderly individuals from accidental injury and to improve the reporting of elder abuse.
For a complete list of individual grant programs, award amounts, and jurisdictions that will receive funding, visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/elderabusefactsheet.pdf.
More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.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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U.s. Attorney Announces Federal Grant to Fund Maine Organization That Supports Offenders Returning to CommunitiesRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: U.S. Attorney Halsey Frank today announced that Brunswick-based Volunteers of America, Northern New England has received a federal grant of $749,586 to help assist offenders reenter their communities after confinement.
The Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) awarded grants to jurisdictions, research institutions and other organizations in support of proven science-based approaches to reintegrate offenders into communities.
In 2018, President Trump signed into law the First Step Act, including reauthorization of the Second Chance Act, the biggest piece of criminal justice reform legislation to be enacted in more than a decade.
“Former offenders are ultimately responsible for their own successes and failures, but our criminal and juvenile justice systems have an important role to play in preparing them for the obstacles that lie before them,” said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “I’m very pleased to make these resources available to help offenders get back on their feet and contribute to the prosperity of their communities and the betterment of our nation.”
“This grant to Volunteers of America, Northern New England will be of tremendous benefit to the organization and the communities it serves,” U.S. Attorney Frank said. “Too often, those who have been incarcerated lack the resources they need to succeed once they reenter society. It’s in everyone’s best interests to make sure these individuals have what they need to be productive members of society.”
Fiscal Year 2020 reentry and recidivism reduction grants awarded include the following:
- More than $71.4 million under BJA’s grant programs designed to help communities develop and implement comprehensive and collaborative strategies to address the challenges posed by reentry and recidivism.
- More than $11.2 million under OJJDP’s Second Chance Act suite of grant programs to support reentry services for detained juveniles and incarcerated parents with children under the age of 18.
- More than $9.3 million under NIJ’s reentry research and evaluation programs, which support rigorous research to advance understanding about reoffending and the success of reentry strategies, programs and practices. This includes evaluating innovative reentry initiatives that specifically focus on juveniles, young adults and adults with a moderate-to-high risk of reoffending.
For a complete list of individual grant programs, amounts to be awarded and the jurisdictions that will receive funding, visit: https://www.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh241/files/media/document/reentryfactsheet.pdf
Additional information about FY 2020 grant awards made by the Office of Justice Programs can be found online at the OJP Awards Data Webpage.
OJP, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.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.
U.S Attorney Welcomes New District Court JudgesRead the Press Release
Fairview Heights, Ill. - U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft today praised the Senate confirmation of
Judges David W. Dugan and Stephen P. McGlynn and publicly welcomed them to their new positions on
the federal bench in southern Illinois. Dugan and McGlynn were both confirmed to lifetime
appointments on September 16 and officially sworn in late last week. Their selection fills a pair
of vacancies on the court after the 2019 retirements of District Judges Michael
J. Reagan and David R. Herndon.“On behalf of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, it is my honor to extend a warm welcome to Judge McGlynn
and Judge Dugan as they begin their federal judicial careers here in the Southern District of
Illinois,” Weinhoeft said. “They are joining a court with a long tradition of well- respected,
dedicated, and fair-minded jurists, including their predecessors Judge Michael Reagan and Judge
David Herndon. And we have no doubt that the court’s newest members will help carry that tradition
forward for many more years to come.”Weinhoeft continued, “Judge McGlynn and Judge Dugan are also joining a court that will be very glad
to receive them. For the past 18 months, despite their already demanding caseloads, the two veteran
district judges and one senior district judge have had to absorb a significant amount of extra
work, all while navigating the longest government shutdown in U.S. history and a global pandemic.
And so we also extend our gratitude and recognition to the entire courthouse family for weathering
that storm and continuing to dispense justice while these two positions were vacant.”Weinhoeft also thanked the democratic senatorial delegation and the republican congressional
delegation for working together, and with the White House, to bring a full complement of judges
back to the Southern District of Illinois. “At a time when political fights dominate the headlines,
it is good to see government function effectively by adding two well- qualified and experienced
judges, to bring our court back to full strength. That is certainly
something to celebrate.”Two Wareham Residents Charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl Resulting in Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two Wareham residents were arrested today and charged in connection with selling fentanyl, including to a 42-year-old man who died of an apparent overdose.
Troy Jones, 40, and Kayla Nightingale, 33, were indicted on one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl resulting in death and distributing fentanyl resulting in death. The defendants were arrested today and will make an initial appearance today at 1:00 p.m. before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge M. Page Kelly.
“Fentanyl, which is far more potent than heroin, is an extremely dangerous drug that is now driving overdose deaths during the opioid epidemic,” said United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling. “Federal law provides for particularly severe consequences when illegal drug trafficking results in death, and we intend to use every available tool to combat this problem.”
“The state of Massachusetts is faced with a fentanyl crisis unlike ever before,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Those responsible for distributing this lethal drug and contribute to the loss of life for those battling this addiction need to be held responsible for their actions. In response to the ongoing opioid epidemic DEA and its local, state and federal partners are committed to bringing to justice those that distribute this poison.”
As alleged in the indictment, Jones and Nightingale worked together from January 2019 through at least April 3, 2019 to distribute fentanyl in Wareham, including to a 42-year-old Wareham resident. On April 2, 2019, that resident died of an apparent fentanyl overdose.
The charging statute provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and up to life in prison, at least three years and up to life of supervised release, a fine of up to $1 million and forfeiture. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Lelling; DEA SAC Boyle; Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts States Police; and Wareham Police Chief John A. Walcek made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Dolan of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Texas Syndicate Members Sentenced to Combined 50 YearsRead the Press Release
Two Texas Syndicate gang members were sentenced today to a combined 50 years in prison for drug trafficking in Lubbock, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.
Jose Daniel Flores, aka “Cuate,” 43, was sentenced to 360 months in prison after pleading guilty in March to intent to distribute heroin. Gabriel Sepulveda Manriquez, aka “Pistolas,” 50, was sentenced to 248 months in prison after his June guilty plea to intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix.
According to court documents, beginning in 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration began investigating Texas Syndicate members in the Lubbock area for suspected drug trafficking.
DEA agents utilized a cooperating source to purchase methamphetamine from Manriquez at his Lubbock residence. By September 2019, the court authorized a wiretap of Manriquez’s electronic device. Agents intercepted numerous conversations between Manriquez and other members of the drug trafficking organization discussing the sale and distribution of narcotics.
Law enforcement executed a search warrant of Manriquez’s residence. He was arrested and law enforcement recovered cocaine packaged for distribution and a Ruger .357 with the serial numbers obliterated from the pistol.
Two search warrants were issued in connection to Flores’ drug trafficking activity. The Lubbock Police Department SWAT team located Flores inside a Lubbock hotel room with co-defendant, Allison Langdon, along with two kilograms of methamphetamine, a large sum of cash, and a Glock .40 pistol. Agents also searched Langdon’s house and recovered approximately half-a-kilogram of heroin locked in a safe which Flores admitted belonged to him.
During an interview with law enforcement, Flores admitted that he obtained methamphetamine and heroin directly from suppliers in Mexico. The investigation revealed that Flores was responsible for importing over 417 kilograms of methamphetamine from Mexico into the United States on behalf of the drug trafficking organization.
Co-defendants Allison Langdon, Ray Elias Narvais-Rodriguez, Luis Gonzalez, Jesus Manriquez, Angelica Del Valle, Randy Roy Nunez, and Tanner Paul Langdon have received sentences ranging up to 235 months.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Lubbock Police Department, Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office, and members of the Lubbock, Texas Anti-Gang Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Rancourt prosecuted this case.
Two Leaders of the Aryan Knights Prison Gang Each Sentenced to over 17 Years for RICO ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOISE – Two members of an Idaho prison gang called the Aryan Knights were sentenced to federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of participating in a RICO (the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act) conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today. Chief United States District Judge David C. Nye sentenced Christopher Foss, 32, to 210 months in federal prison and Buck Pickens, 31, to 206 months in federal prison. Both Foss and Pickens will also serve five years of supervised release following their sentence. Each was found to have played a leadership role in the Aryan Knights, or “AK.”
Foss’ sentence will be served concurrently with a state sentence currently being served at Idaho Department of Correction (IDOC). If Foss is paroled on his state sentence at the earliest possible date, he will serve an additional 174 months in federal prison. Pickens’ sentence is partially concurrent with his current state sentences. It is structured so that Pickens will serve an additional 60 months in federal prison if he is paroled at the earliest possible date.
Foss and Pickens are two of ten AK gang defendants indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2019 for participating in a RICO conspiracy. The indictment also included two separate counts for committing a violent crime in aid of racketeering. So far, five defendants have pleaded guilty to the RICO conspiracy count, and one defendant, Michael McNabb, 36, was sentenced on August 21, 2020. McNabb was sentenced to 28 months in federal prison by Chief Judge Nye. A jury trial for the remaining defendants is scheduled for April 5, 2021 at the federal courthouse in Boise.
According to court records, the AK gang was formed in the mid-1990s in the Idaho prison system. It is a prison gang that operates within IDOC prison facilities and also outside of IDOC facilities. It was founded to organize criminal activity for a select group of white inmates within IDOC custody. The AK gang has white supremacist and white separatist ideologies. Since its founding, the AK gang has expanded and is now believed to have over 100 members, both inside and outside of IDOC custody. Members of the AK gang have used violence and the threat of violence to target non‑white inmates and other targeted inmates. AK gang members also engaged in drug trafficking, extortion, and gambling to generate revenue, which was shared among members.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, IDOC’s Special Investigations Unit, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, and Ada County Prosecutor’s Office.
An indictment is a means of charging a person with criminal activity. It is not evidence. The codefendants that have not pleaded guilty and remain scheduled for trial are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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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.
Two Indicted for Failing to Register as Sex OffendersRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – In separate indictments, two men residing in Salt Lick, Ky., Clinton Anthony Peterson, 29, and Brandon Phillip Camous, 27, were indicted on Thursday, on federal charges of failing to register as sex offenders.
The indictments allege that from January 2016, continuing through September 17, 2020, both Peterson and Camous resided in Nicholas County and elsewhere; and while living there, they failed to register under the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). Both were charged with knowingly failing to register under SORNA, after qualifying prior convictions.
The investigation preceding the indictments was conducted jointly by the U.S. Marshals Service and Kentucky State Police.
Peterson is scheduled to appear before the United States District Court, in Lexington, on October 8, 2020 at 11:30 a.m. Camous is scheduled to appear on October 5, 2020 at 11 a.m. If convicted, both face a maximum of 10 years in prison. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the United States Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statutes governing the imposition of sentences.
Any indictment is an accusation only. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Tuscaloosa Man Sentenced to 600 Years in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A federal judge today sentenced a Tuscaloosa man for sexually exploiting two young children, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and FBI Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp, Jr.
Chief U.S. District Judge L. Scott Coogler sentenced MATTHEW MILLER, 32, to 7,200 months in prison for producing child pornography. Miller was charged in a 20-count indictment for enticing two children under the age of 5 to engage in sexual explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual production of such conduct. A search warrant was obtained for the defendant’s electronic devices. The forensic examination of those devices revealed 102 pornographic images that the defendant had produced of the children. Miller pled guilty to these charges in October 2019.
“Child predators seek out and victimize those that are the most innocent and vulnerable - children,” Escalona said. “The sentences imposed today and yesterday in local child exploitation cases reflect the commitment of law enforcement in this district to prosecuting to the fullest extent of the law those who commit crimes against children.”
“The crimes for which Miller has admitted guilt are not only disturbing, they are sickening, and his actions robbed these children of their childhood,” Sharp said. “I am proud of the work of the FBI on this case, and I applaud the sentence handed down today, as Miller will spend the rest of his natural life behind prison bars.”
FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated the case, along with the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Violent Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Leann White prosecuted the case.
Towing Company Owner Charged with Tax Fraud and Evading Cash Transaction ReportingRead the Press Release
BOSTON –The owner of a Revere towing company was charged yesterday with engaging in an under-the-table payroll fraud scheme that defrauded the government more than $3.3 million.
Gennaro Angiulo, 49, of Nahant and Saugus, was charged by Information with one count of willful failure to collect and pay over taxes and one count of evading cash transaction reporting requirements.
For tax years 2014 through at least 2017, Angiulo allegedly paid a portion of the wages to employees of his company, GJ Towing, in cash “under the table.” In doing so, Anguilo did not collect, account for or pay over to the IRS required withholding and FICA taxes. The cash payments to employees were funded, at least in part, by cashing checks from clients of GJ Towing and other third parties in groups totaling not more than $10,000 in a single day.
The charge of willful failure to collect and pay over taxes provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of evading cash transaction reporting requirements provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to five years of supervised release, a fine of $500,000 and forfeiture. Angiulo is also required to pay restitution to the IRS. 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 Joleen Simpson, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Miron Bloom of Lelling’s Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
Tohono O'odham Nation Member Sentenced to 46 Months After Strangling His GirlfriendRead the Press Release
TUCSON, Ariz. – Last week, Merrell Derek Steve Felix, 40, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps to 46 months in prison. Felix previously pleaded guilty to Assault by Strangulation committed on the Tohono O’odham Indian Reservation.
On October 6, 2017, near Sells, Arizona, Felix, an enrolled member of the Tohono O’odham Nation, assaulted his girlfriend by strangling her. The investigation began after United States Border Patrol agents encountered Felix and the victim at an immigration checkpoint on Highway 86 just outside of Sells. A Border Patrol agent noticed that the victim had been crying and inquired about her well-being. Felix told the agents that the victim was fine, but the victim mouthed the word, “help.” The victim had visible bruising on her neck and face, and later told law enforcement that Felix had strangled her with both of his hands and a lanyard. The victim is also an enrolled member of the Tohono O’odham Nation.
The Tohono O’odham Police Department, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, conducted the investigation into this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Serra M. Tsethlikai, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-19-1089-TUC-JGZ
RELEASE NUMBER: 2020-078_Felix# # #
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 Men Charged with Federal Gun Crimes Appear in CourtRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Three men charged with federal gun crimes appeared in court this week, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
John Miller, 23, of Charleston, was sentenced to 25 months in prison for making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of a firearm in a school zone, and discharge of a firearm in a school zone. On April 7, 2019, Miller went to Cabela’s near Corridor G in Charleston, which is a licensed firearm dealer, and purchased a Taurus G2C 9 mm pistol. Prior to purchasing the firearm, he checked “no” in response to a question on the DOJ ATF Firearms Transaction Record Form 4473 indicating he was not an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, but he knew that to be a false statement as he was an unlawful user of and addicted to marijuana. Shortly after purchasing the firearm, he took it within a distance of 1,000 feet of Mary C. Snow West Side Elementary School and discharged it during a drug deal. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Charleston Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Negar M. Kordestani and former Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders handled the prosecution.
Earlier this week, two Huntington men pled guilty to gun crimes before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
Craig Eatmon, also known as “Fresh,” age 41, pled guilty to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Eatmon admitted that on May 19 and June 17, 2019, he sold a firearm at Tri-State Pawn and Jewelry on 4th Avenue in Huntington. At the time he sold the firearms, he had been convicted of a drug related felony and malicious destruction of property in Wayne County, Michigan. As a result of those convictions, Eatmon was prohibited from possessing the firearms. Eatmon faces up to 10 years in prison on each count when sentenced on January 11, 2021. The ATF conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey is handling the prosecution.
Jeffrey L. Hodgens, 42, entered a guilty plea to theft of a firearm. Hodgens admitted that on March 24, 2019, he entered a vehicle that was parked in the 1100 block of 4th Avenue in Huntington where he located a Colt, 5.56 mm rifle. Hodgens stole the rifle and admitted that he subsequently traded it to another person in Huntington in exchange for methamphetamine. When the rifle was later recovered, it was determined that the rifle was capable of firing as a fully automatic machinegun. Hodgens faces up to 10 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on January 11, 2021. The investigation was conducted by the ATF and the Huntington Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecution.
These cases are part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from the Project Guardian partners referenced above. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
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 Nos. 2:19-cr-00270 (Miller), 3:20-cr-00104 (Eatmon), and 3:19-cr-00297 (Hodgens).
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Thirteen Charged in Fresno Interstate Multi-Drug RingRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned two indictments Thursday arising from a single investigation into a drug trafficking organization operating in California and trafficking drugs to Colorado, Nebraska, Oregon, and Washington, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced today.
The grand jury charged Fresno residents Jesus Gonzalez-Burgos, 36, Gabriel Gomez-Nunez, 36, and Jose Rubalcalva Gutierrez Jr., 34, with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl.
The grand jury also charged the following defendants with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl: Juan Alejandro Comparan-Guzman, 34, of Kerman; Quintin Jeuh Carlos-Bañuelos, 25, of Palo Alto; Hector Gomez, 27, of Omaha, Nebraska; Francisco Ramírez, 20, of Fresno; Lorena Ramírez, 36, of Fresno; Christina Maria Nino, 57, of Fresno; Anna Concepcion Jimenez-Ambriz, 21, of Fresno; Rafael Zaragoza, 28, of Fresno; Carol Maldonaldo Vasquez, 32, of Corcoran; and Rita Ann-Marie Louis, 29, of Carnation, Washington.
According to court documents, the nine-month investigation revealed these individuals were involved in trafficking methamphetamine, fentanyl-laced counterfeit OxyContin pills, and heroin between California and Colorado, Nebraska, Oregon, and Washington. Law enforcement seized approximately 34,144 pills of counterfeit OxyContin pills containing fentanyl, 7 pounds of cocaine, 2 pounds of heroin, 137 pounds of methamphetamine, and $142,000 during the course of the investigation.
This case is the product of an investigation by the High Impact Investigation Team (HIIT), a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Initiative (HIDTA), composed of personnel from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, California Department of Justice -Fresno Regional Office, Homeland Security Investigations, the Fresno Police Department, Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, Kings County Sheriff’s Office, Fresno County District Attorney's Office, and the California Highway Patrol. HIIT conducts major narcotic and other major criminal investigations in the counties of the California Central Valley. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen A. Servatius is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, all defendants face a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and up to life in prison and a fine of up to $10 million. 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 defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The United States Has Repatriated 27 Americans from Syria and Iraq Including Ten Charged with Terrorism-Related Offenses for Their Support to ISISRead the Press Release
With the recent transfer of custody of four defendants, the United States has successfully repatriated all Americans held by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) against whom criminal charges have been lodged for offenses relating to their support for ISIS. The Department of Justice will review the facts and circumstances relating to any future detainees and, where warranted, bring additional charges against others.
“With this week’s repatriations, the United States has brought back every American supporter of ISIS known to be held by the Syrian Democratic Forces against whom we have charges,” said John C. Demers, Assistant Attorney General for National Security. “The Department of Justice has worked tirelessly over the years to prevent individuals from leaving America to fight for ISIS and other terrorist groups in Syria and to investigate, repatriate and charge people who willingly left to support these organizations. This was our moral responsibility to the American people and to the people of the countries to which these terrorists traveled. The Department has also supported the efforts of other responsible nations to do the same, including by sharing evidence and know-how. We will continue to do so for any country that takes responsibility for their citizens who left to take up arms in support of ISIS’s reign of hate and intolerance.”
“Preventing terrorism remains the FBI’s top priority. Through the hard work and dedication of countless men and women across the FBI and the U.S. government, nearly a dozen citizens have been repatriated from Iraq and Syria over the past several years to face the American justice system,” said John Brown, FBI Executive Assistant Director for National Security. “This announcement should serve as a warning to those who travel, or attempt to travel, to join and fight with ISIS. We remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent terrorism as well as hold terrorists, and those who provide support to terrorist organizations, accountable for their actions. We will continue to work closely with our U.S. government and international partners to present a united front against global terrorism.”
“The United States continues to lead by example by working with the Syrian Democratic Forces to repatriate American citizens accused of supporting ISIS and, where appropriate, prosecuting their alleged crimes in American courts,” said Ambassador Nathan Sales, State Department Coordinator for Counterterrorism. “We call on other nations, particularly in Western Europe, to take responsibility for their citizens, and we thank the FBI and the Department of Justice for their continued commitment to keeping alleged terrorists off of the battlefield.”
The Recently Repatriated
Emraan Ali and Jihad Ali: On Sept. 30, 2020, Emraan Ali and Jihad Ali made their initial appearance in the Southern District of Florida. Emraan Ali is charged in a complaint with providing and attempting to provide material support to ISIS. Jihad Ali is charged in a complaint with conspiracy to provide material support to ISIS. According to the criminal complaints, in March 2015, Emraan Ali traveled to Syria with his family, including his son, Jihad Ali, to join ISIS. Both Emraan Ali and Jihad Ali received military and religious training and served as fighters in support of the terrorist organization. Emraan and Jihad Ali finally surrendered to the SDF near Baghuz in March 2019, during the last sustained ISIS battles to maintain territory in Syria.
Abdelhamid Al-Madioum: On Sept. 16, 2020, Abdelhamid Al-Madioum, made his initial appearance in the District of Minnesota on an indictment charging him with providing material support to ISIS. According to the allegations in the indictment and a law enforcement affidavit, from July 8, 2015, through March 15, 2019, Al-Madioum knowingly provided material support and resources, including personnel (namely himself) and services to ISIS. On June 23, 2015, Al-Madioum, a native of Morocco and naturalized U.S. citizen, and his family traveled from St. Louis Park, Minnesota, to Casablanca, Morocco, to visit their extended family. On July 8, 2015, Al-Madioum left Morocco and traveled to Istanbul, Turkey, and then on to Iraq and Syria, where he joined ISIS. In March of 2019, Al-Madioum was captured and detained by the SDF.
Lirim Sylejmani: On Sept. 16, 2020, an indictment was unsealed in the federal district court of the District of Columbia charging Lirim Sylejmani, a Kosovo-born naturalized U.S. citizen, with conspiring to provide, providing, and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, and receiving training from ISIS. According to the allegations in the indictment, from November 2015 through February 2019, Sylejmani conspired to provide and provided material support and resources, including personnel and services, to ISIS in Syria and received military training from the terrorist organization. The defendant was captured by the SDF in 2019 and has spoken to a number of media outlets about his time with ISIS.
Those Previously Repatriated From Syria and Iraq
Prior press releases relating to the six other defendants who were repatriated from Syria and Iraq are included below. For the latest updates on the cases, please check PACER or contact the relevant U.S. Attorney’s office.
Samantha Marie Elhassani – Northern District of Indiana:
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/former-indiana-resident-pleads-guilty-concealing-terrorism-financing
Warren Christopher Clark – Southern District of Texas:
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/texas-man-arrested-attempting-provide-material-support-designated-foreign-terrorist
Ibraheem Izzy Musaibli – Eastern District of Michigan:
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/michigan-man-who-joined-isis-charged-additional-offenses
Ruslan Maratovich Asainov – Eastern District of New York:
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/american-citizen-alleged-isis-sniper-and-weapons-instructor-indicted-providing-material
Omer Kuzu – Northern District of Texas:
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndtx/pr/repatriated-isis-fighter-pleads-guilty-terror-charge
Mohamad Jamal Khweis – Eastern District of Virginia:
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/american-sentenced-20-years-joining-isis
Texas woman sent to prison for 19-year internet stolen merchandise schemeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 63-year-old resident of Dallas has been ordered to federal prison for her role in a multi-million dollar interstate theft ring involving merchandise sold on eBay, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Kim Richardson pleaded guilty Dec. 17, 2019.
Today, U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen ordered her to serve a total of 54 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. She has also agreed to pay $3.8 million in restitution. In handing down the sentence, the court noted it would be virtually impossible to identify all of the victims in this long-running scheme.
As part of her plea, Richardson admitted she participated in a conspiracy that spanned from August 2000 through April 2019. During that time, she shoplifted items as she traveled throughout the United States. She would then sell the stolen merchandise to buyers on eBay and via direct internet sales and sent it to them via the U.S. mail, Federal Express and United Parcel Service.
Richardson stole items from numerous retail stores. She used shoplifting tools to disable security devices and would exit the store by placing the stolen merchandise in a large black bag she carried. Richardson assisted in the sale of the items on the internet as well as packaging and mailing the stolen items.
Buyers sent approximately $3.8 million throughout the scheme into four PayPal accounts linked to Richardson.
Richardson was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Secret Service and FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Belinda Beek prosecuted the case.
Ten Men Sentenced to Prison for Their Roles in a Child Exploitation Enterprise and ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Ten men from around the country have been sentenced for participating in a child pornography enterprise and conspiracy, Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania announced today.
U.S. District Judge Harvey Bartle III for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania imposed the following sentences:
- Andrew Dowdle, aka “Chigger,” 48, of Oswego, New York, was sentenced on Sept. 23, 2019, to 16 years in prison, followed by 15 years supervised release. He pleaded guilty on April 8, 2019.
- Carl Masters, aka “Harmon,” 45, of Lawrence, Kansas, was sentenced on Sept. 24, 2019, to 27 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. He pleaded guilty on April 25, 2019.
- Ric Crossfield, aka “Officer Branner,” 25, of Jamaica, New York, was sentenced on Sept. 25, 2019, to 14 years in prison, followed by 40 years supervised release. He pleaded guilty on April 18, 2019.
- Christian Brennan, aka “Choad,” 46, of Puyallup, Washington, was sentenced on Nov. 7, 2019, to 20 years in prison, followed by 10 years supervised release. He pleaded guilty on April 23, 2019.
- Sharif El-Battouty, aka “Fritos,” 39, of Woodside, New York, was sentenced on March 16, 2020, to 30 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. He was found guilty at trial on May 2, 2019.
- Jarrett Lea, aka “Toot,” 27, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was sentenced on Oct. 1 2020, to 17 years in prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release. He pleaded guilty on April 15, 2019.
- David Minnichelli, aka “Davis,” 30 of Califon, New Jersey, was sentenced on July 28, 2020, to 15 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. He pleaded guilty on Oct. 22, 2019.
- Marqueal Bonds, aka “The Goat,” 22, of Chicago, Illinois, was sentenced on Aug. 18, 2020, to 22 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. He pleaded guilty on March 5, 2020.
- Timothy Friel, aka “JJChuck,” 40 of Penndel, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on March 19, 2020, to 12 years in prison, followed by 15 years supervised release. He pleaded guilty on Aug. 24, 2018.
U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle for the Western District of Washington imposed the following sentence:
- Cory Crosby, aka “The 191,” 39, of Tacoma, Washington, was sentenced on April 1, 2019, to 25 years in prison, followed by lifetime supervised release. He pleaded guilty on July 18, 2018.
“The defendants collaborated in a sophisticated conspiracy to deceive, manipulate, and extort hundreds of unsuspecting and vulnerable children, tricking them into creating sexually explicit content by posing as their peers on live-streaming video chat applications,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These significant sentences reflect the Department’s commitment to uncovering such nefarious schemes and protecting our most innocent from exploitation by online predators.”
“Jarret Lea and his co-conspirators caused irreparable harm to over 170 identified child victims,” said U.S. Attorney William McSwain for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. “These men shrouded their true identities in the anonymity of the internet and presented themselves as their victims’ peers in order to gain these children’s trust and exploit them sexually. The lengthy sentences handed out for this despicable behavior will not restore the innocence lost, but they do send a strong message that my office will find and prosecute child predators, no matter where they lurk.”
“In order to ensure themselves a steady supply of new child pornography, these predators conspired to befriend, manipulate, and sexually exploit scores of minors online,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Driscoll of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “The defendants thought they could hide behind fake names and handles and continue their violations with impunity. The FBI is proud to have fully unmasked them, shut them down, and brought them to justice.”
According to court documents, between November 2016 and July 2018, these defendants, and other co-conspirators outside of the United States, utilized chatrooms on the online service “Discord” – an application designed for online gaming communities that allows users to engage in text chat and share images and videos – to produce and exchange child pornography. These chatrooms were accessed by invitation only. Those who gained access to the chatrooms actively worked together to identify social media platforms and profiles of minor females, including girls as young as 10 years old, and strategized regarding how to convince the children to engage in sexually explicit activity via live web camera. The group targeted live-streaming video chat applications such as Live.Me, Periscope, YouNow, Kik, Musically and Snapchat to target and entice the minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct.
While pretending to be minor boys and girls, the defendants streamed pre-recorded videos of other underage minors engaging in similar conduct to the targeted victims in an effort to get the minors to believe they were watching a live video of someone their own age. The victims were unaware that they were communicating with adult men who were recording their sexually explicit activity. After successfully recording a victim, the defendants shared the sexually explicit videos with each other by uploading the files to file-storage sites and placing a link to download the file on a section of their members-only chatroom. To date, 172 minor victims have been positively identified.
Four of the co-conspirators each pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in a child exploitation enterprise and one count of advertising child pornography. Three of the co-conspirators pleaded guilty to one count of advertising child pornography. Two of the co-conspirators pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in a child exploitation enterprise. Additionally, Cory Crosby, who was prosecuted in the Western District of Washington pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in a child exploitation enterprise, one count of producing child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.
Trial Attorneys Kaylynn Foulon and Lauren Britsch of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Jayne and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Schlessinger of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Hampton of the Western District of Washington prosecuted the cases. The FBI Philadelphia and Tacoma Field Offices and investigated the case with assistance from Operation Rescue Me, the Digital Analysis and Research Center (DARC) Lab and CEOS’s High Technology Investigative Unit.
This case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc.
Tampa Man Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Prison for Laundering Drug MoneyRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced Arafat Aljubeh (55, Tampa) to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison for conspiring to launder the proceeds of a conspiracy to distribute AB-FUBINACA, a type of synthetic marijuana. The court also ordered Aljubeh to forfeit his interest in five parcels of real property in the Tampa Bay area, which are traceable to proceeds of the offense.
Aljubeh had pleaded guilty on June 7, 2019.
According to the plea agreement, in April 2017, in Baker County, a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) trooper conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Thair Zatar. Zatar was issued a warning and gave the trooper consent to search his vehicle. When the trooper looked in the back of Zatar’s vehicle, he discovered nine large black garbage bags, weighing approximately 415 pounds, which were stuffed with 27,000 individual packets labeled as “potpourri.” The packets were branded with names including “Outer Space” and “Geeked Up.” The trooper suspected the packets contained synthetic marijuana, and the Drug Enforcement Administration later confirmed that fact. Zatar was arrested and informed the DEA that his supplier was Aljubeh.
Zatar pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute AB-FUBINACA and was sentenced in 2018 to four years and three months in federal prison. Zatar’s sentence was later reduced to 33 months in prison based on his cooperation in the investigation of Aljubeh.
As part of his cooperation, Zatar admitted to DEA that he had served as a drug mule at the direction of Aljubeh on previous occasions and provided documents and evidence showing that Aljubeh directed Zatar to deposit the proceeds of the AB-FUBINACA sales into accounts controlled by Aljubeh and Aljubeh’s conspirators. A separate investigation of those accounts by Homeland Security Investigations revealed that the involved accounts were receiving deposits of thousands of dollars in cash from around the United States that were the proceeds of the sale of AB-FUBINACA. Those accounts were then used to transfer the proceeds back and forth between the accounts in a complex series of transactions designed to obfuscate the nature, location, source, ownership and control of the drug money. Ultimately, tracing of the funds showed that they were used to purchase five pieces of real property in the Tampa Bay area.
“This criminal has repeatedly shown disregard for our nation’s laws,” said HSI Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Cochran. “As a result of the effective teamwork with HSI, the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Highway Patrol and the DEA, this repeat offender will face the consequences for his crimes.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Highway Patrol, and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor. The criminal forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Bonnie Glober.
Tahlequah Man Sentenced to 60 Months for ArsonRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that John Cole Haeberle, age 23, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma was sentenced to sixty months’ imprisonment, and three years of supervised release for Arson, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(i). The charges arose from an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the Tahlequah Fire Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about February 24, 2020, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, maliciously damaged and destroyed, and attempted to damage and destroy, by means of fire and explosive materials the Garden Walk Apartments located at 18106 W. 794 Road, APT 40B, Tahlequah, Oklahoma, a building which was used in any activity affecting interstate commerce.
United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “The defendant’s conduct had the potential for injuring many people. Although no one was physically harmed, setting fire to an occupied apartment building is a serious offense. The diligent efforts of the investigation and prosecution teams that worked on this case led to the defendant’s quick apprehension, prosecution, and sentencing. His community is safer with him in a Bureau of Prisons facility.”
“The use of fire to commit arson is one of the most dangerous criminal acts today. The fact that Mr. Haeberle committed this violent act at an apartment complex is even more concerning. Thanks to the hard work of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the Tahlequah Fire Department, this criminal actor was caught and brought to justice,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jarrod Leaman represented the United States.
Suburban Business Owner Sentenced to a Year in Federal Prison in Connection with Public Corruption Investigation in MarkhamRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A federal judge in Chicago has sentenced a suburban business owner to a year and a day in prison for lying to federal law enforcement about his knowledge of a bribery scheme involving the mayor of Markham.
THOMAS SUMMERS, 68, of Homer Glen, was convicted last year of making false statements to the FBI and IRS. The agents interviewed Summers in November 2016 as part of a public corruption investigation involving bribes paid to then-Markham Mayor DAVID WEBB JR. by contractors seeking to maintain or expand business with the south suburb. During the interview, Summers lied to agents when he denied having knowledge about bribe payments.
Webb, who served as mayor of Markham from 2001 to 2017, pleaded guilty and admitted participating in a bribery scheme. He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 11, 2021.
U.S. District Judge Robert W. Gettleman imposed Summers’s sentence Tuesday after a hearing in federal court in Chicago. In handing down the sentence, Judge Gettleman emphasized the severity and impact of public corruption and the need for general deterrence.
The sentence was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Emmerson Buie, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI; and Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent-in-Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation Division in Chicago. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission provided valuable assistance.
“Defendant showed no respect for the law,” Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven J. Dollear and Georgia N. Alexakis argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum in the Summers case. “He sat across from federal agents and lied. He lied to protect himself and Webb, and the corrupt relationship they shared.”
Two other defendants – Mokena-based TOWER CONTRACTING LLC and its president, MICHAEL JARIGESE, 67, of Frankfort – were also convicted as part of the federal investigation. Jarigese was sentenced in March to three years and five months in prison, while Tower Contracting was fined $1.2 million and sentenced to four years of probation.
Statement of U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Michael R. Sherwin on Domestic Violence Awareness MonthRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — Today is the first day of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). First observed in 1987, DVAM is an opportunity to raise public awareness regarding issues relating to domestic violence. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is deeply involved in addressing domestic violence in our community, as our office handles the prosecution of all domestic violence cases involving adult offenders that occur in the District of Columbia. This year, we again take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to seeking justice for those individuals harmed by domestic violence.
As part of that commitment, earlier this year, our office launched a new Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Prevention Initiative. This initiative is focused on collaborating with community partners to address IPV, as well as further developing our Office’s expertise in prosecuting domestic violence cases. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Creighton, a senior prosecutor in the Sex Offense and Domestic Violence Section of our Office, was selected to lead this important Initiative. Nationally, about 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, as many as 10 million children and adolescents witness violence between their parents or caregivers each year, [1] and children who witness domestic violence are also significantly more likely to be victims-survivors of child abuse themselves.
IPV is just as much of a challenge here in Washington, D.C., and its effects can be devastating and, regrettably, sometimes fatal.
We must also acknowledge that the global COVID-19 pandemic has created even more challenges for those in our community most vulnerable to abuse, and to domestic violence in particular. Numerous reports over the last few months have documented an increase in domestic violence in communities nationally and across the globe. Our city has similarly seen the impact of this insidious form of violence. And at a time when many victims-survivors may feel trapped at home with their abuser, it is important that they know they are not alone, and that help is available.
Despite the ongoing health emergency, our Office has worked tirelessly to bring safety and justice to victims-survivors of domestic violence. For example:
- As part of the Intimate Partner Violence Prevention Initiative, our Office developed flyers, in English and Spanish, with key information about what services are available to victims-survivors of abuse during the pandemic, and how to report abuse safely. Officers with the Metropolitan Police Department have distributed hundreds of the flyers throughout our community and continue to do so;
- Prosecutors in our Sex Offense and Domestic Violence Section have responded to hundreds of motions seeking early release for those convicted of domestic violence, arguing against release where it is necessary to keep our community safe, with almost uniform success;
- Our Office worked with community partners to establish procedures for conducting remote interviews of children suspected to be victims-survivors of abuse; and
- Our Office is planning several remote events during the month of October to educate the public about domestic violence and to help victims-survivors learn how to break free from the powerful cycle of violence, including a WebEx presentation with the Washington Humane Society on October 29 from 3:00 – 4:15 p.m. on the link between animal cruelty and domestic violence. Other events focusing on domestic violence include the following:
- October 7, 14, 21, and 28 – Domestic Violence/Bullying Hispanic Youth Presentation (available to students only);
- October 14 and 21 – Women’s Roundtable Series focused on domestic violence (6:00 p.m. on the 14th) and protecting children from abuse and neglect (also at 6;00 p.m. on the 21st);
- October 27 – Hate Bias Task Force Meeting focused on helping victims-survivors of domestic violence during COVID-19 (6:00 p.m.); and
- October 28 – Clergy Ambassador Program event focused on domestic violence (6:00 p.m.).
While this Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes during a uniquely challenging time, it is nevertheless an important reminder of the fact that now, more than ever, we must fight to bring justice to those who have been victimized by domestic violence.
[1] https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Helping-Children-Exposed-to-Domestic-Violence-109.aspx.
Second Man Pleads Guilty for Role in 2016 Killing at Hattiesburg RestaurantRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Demethius Dixon, also known as “Deezy,” 28, of Louisiana, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Keith Starrett for carrying and using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, resulting in the firearm being discharged, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
On June 26, 2016, Dixon and his co-defendant, James Windham, met with a third party at a Hattiesburg Mugshots restaurant in order to sell two ounces of marijuana. Dixon was brought along by Windham as an armed enforcer and as backup in case the drug deal turned sour. During the drug transaction, Dixon discharged a firearm multiple times, ultimately resulting in the death of the third party.
Following the shooting, Dixon and Windham fled from the scene, at which time they discarded the marijuana and all firearms associated with the shooting. Due to the diligent police work of Hattiesburg Police Department, the marijuana and all firearms were all recovered shortly after the shooting.
Dixon and Windham were originally indicted for this offense on June 25, 2019. Sentencing for Dixon is set on January 12, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Windham pled guilty to the same charge on September 24, 2020. Sentencing for Windham is set on January 12, 2021 at 9:30 A.M.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Hattiesburg’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Post of Duty, and Hattiesburg Police Department investigated the case. District Attorney Hal Kittrell and the 15th Circuit District Attorney’s Office were instrumental in guiding early investigative steps in the matter and involving federal partners. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
Registered Sex Offender Faces 10 Years in Prison for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A registered sex offender arrested by members of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force while he sat in a restaurant parking lot accessing the business’ Wi-Fi-feed to view child pornography is facing 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty today to possession of child pornography after having previously been convicted for possession of child.
Vincent J. Siravo, 41, of Westerly, convicted in Rhode Island state court in 2008 for possessing child pornography, has been detained in federal custody since August 4, 2020.
According to information presented to the court, the ICAC Task Force developed information that on multiple occasions a device was connecting to an IP address assigned to a South Kingstown restaurant, and that the device had accessed a file sharing network and possessed files of child pornography.
On October 16, 2019, a member of the Task Force received notification that a device on a peer-to-peer file sharing network was accessing the Internet connection assigned to the restaurant. A State Police Detective responded to the restaurant and discovered Siravo sitting in his car, parked in a handicap parking spot, with a laptop computer on his lap. Siravo was uncooperative and provided a false name to law enforcement. His true identity was confirmed through his vehicle registration. Law enforcement determined that Siravo was a Level 1 sex offender.
A court-authorized search of Siravo’s computer revealed a large quantity of child pornography. A full forensic review of the computer revealed approximately 2,200 video files and approximately 1,600 images depicting child pornography. Among the child pornography files discovered on Siravo’s computer were files identified as having been downloaded by someone using the restaurant IP address on March 21 through March 22, 2017.
Siravo’s guilty plea before U.S. District Court Judge Mary S. McElroy is announced by United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police Colonel James M. Manni, and Homeland Security Investigations Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael S. Shea.
Possession of child pornography after having previously been convicted for possession of child is punishable by 10-20 years in federal prison, lifetime supervise release, and a fine of $250,000.
According to a plea agreement filed with the court, at a sentencing hearing scheduled to be held on December 14, 2020, the government and the defendant will jointly recommend the court sentence Siravo to a 10-year term of incarceration in federal prison.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee. H. Vilker.
The Rhode Island ICAC Task Force is comprised of members of the Rhode Island State Police Computer Crimes Unit along with detectives from the Warwick Police Department, Cranston Police Department, Newport Police Department, East Providence Police Department, Pawtucket Police Department, Bristol Police Department, North Kingstown Police Department, Portsmouth Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations.
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Principal of Cryptocurrency Escrow Company Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Fraudulent SchemeRead the Press Release
Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that JON BARRY THOMPSON, a/k/a “J. Barry Thompson,” the principal of a cryptocurrency escrow company, pled guilty today in Manhattan federal court to commodities fraud. THOMPSON’s guilty plea results from his involvement in a scheme to defraud a company of over $3 million. In June and July 2018, THOMPSON made false promises to the company to induce it to send THOMPSON’s company over $3 million for Bitcoin that THOMPSON never had and that the investing company never received.
THOMPSON was arrested on July 25, 2019, and pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Edgardo Ramos.
Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said: “As he admitted today, Jon Barry Thompson fraudulently induced a company to send him more than $3 million, which the company understood would be used for the purchase of Bitcoin with ‘no risk.’ While Thompson had pledged not to part with the company’s money until he had possession of the Bitcoin, in fact Thompson sent the money to a third party without first receiving the Bitcoin, and the money was never recovered.”
According to the Complaint, the Indictment, and other statements made in open court:
THOMPSON claimed in promotional materials that his cryptocurrency escrow company, Volantis Escrow Platform LLC, and the related company Volantis Market Making LCC (collectively “Volantis”), “minimize[d] settlement default risk” in cryptocurrency transactions. THOMPSON claimed that because Volantis acted as a custodian of assets for “both sides of the transaction, there is no risk of default.”
In June and July 2018, THOMPSON made false statements to a company (“Company-1”) to induce Company-1 to send Volantis over $3 million to fund the purchase of Bitcoin for Company-1. THOMPSON falsely assured Company-1 that THOMPSON would act as an escrow and that Company-1’s money could not be lost. In particular, THOMPSON told Company-1 that the transaction would take place through an “atomic swap process” after THOMPSON had custody of both the Bitcoin and Company-1’s cash. THOMPSON falsely represented that he would not transfer Company-1’s cash to the seller until he had the Bitcoin in hand. Based on these fraudulent representations, Company-1 wired THOMPSON $3.25 million. THOMPSON then wired over $3 million of Company-1’s money to a third-party entity without first receiving any of the Bitcoin in hand. After taking Company-1’s money, THOMPSON lied for days about the status of the transaction and the location of Company-1’s Bitcoin and money, which was never returned.
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THOMPSON, 49, of Easton, Pennsylvania, pled guilty to one count of commodities fraud. This charge carries a maximum term of 10 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
THOMPSON will be sentenced on January 7, 2021, at 10:00 a.m.
Ms. Strauss praised the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and also thanked the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission for its assistance.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jordan Estes and Drew Skinner are in charge of the prosecution.
Philadelphia Man Admits Transporting Three Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Philadelphia man today admitted possessing and transporting more than three kilograms of cocaine he intended to distribute, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Suris Vasquez-Javier, 40, pleaded guilty by videoconference before U.S. District Court Judge Claire C. Cecchi to an information charging him with one count of possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Jan. 27, 2020, law enforcement officers conducted a lawful motor vehicle stop during which Vasquez-Javier provided consent to search the vehicle. During the search, they uncovered a secret compartment, known as a “trap” and commonly used by criminals to hide contraband, such as narcotics, in an effort to evade detection. Law enforcement officers recovered a black plastic bag containing more than three kilograms of cocaine. A search incident to his arrest uncovered more than $2,600 in U.S. currency.
The charge of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum potential penalty of 40 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 10, 2021.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson, and members of the New Jersey State Police, under direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Angelica M. Sinopole of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit in Newark.
Pharmacy Owner and Pharmacist Charged in a Scheme to Bill Insurance for Medications Not DispensedRead the Press Release
DETROIT - A grand jury returned a superseding indictment yesterday charging Wansa Nabih Makki, her husband, Hossam Tanana, and her brother, Mahmoud Makki with multiple health care fraud and money laundering offenses, U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider announced today.
Schneider was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Steven M. D’Antuono of the FBI’s Detroit Division and Special Agent in Charge Lamont Pugh III of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Chicago Regional Office.
Charged in the indictment and criminal complaints are:
Wansa Nabih Makki, 42, of Dearborn
Mahmoud Makki., 37, of Dearborn
Hossam Tanana, 54 of Dearborn
According to the superseding indictment, between January 2010 and January 2018, Wansa Makki owned and oversaw the operations of two local pharmacies, LifeCare Pharmacy in Livonia and LifeCare of Michigan in Farmington Hills. Both pharmacies were “closed door” pharmacies, meaning that they were not open to the public and only filled prescriptions for individuals associated with various care facilities.
The superseding indictment alleges that during the course of the conspiracy, Wansa Makki, Hossam Tanana, and Mahmoud Makki engaged in a scheme to bill Medicare, Medicaid and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan for approximately $9.2 million dollars for medications that were never dispensed. The fraud scheme was detected by Medicare, in part, because of a huge deficit between each pharmacy’s recorded inventories and the claims that each submitted for insurance reimbursement. As part of the scheme to defraud, the defendants billed insurance companies for allegedly submitting claims for delivering over 500 medications to people who had died prior to the claimed date of delivery. The grand jury also charged Wansa Makki with making a false statement to the IRS when she falsely claimed to be a Pharmacist in her 2015 tax return.
According to the indictment, proceeds of the fraud scheme were laundered by overpaying consulting and delivery companies owned by Hossam Tanana and Mahmoud Makki. For instance, Hossam Tanana was previously convicted for diverting controlled substances such as oxycodone, hydrocodone (Vicodin) and alprazolam (Xanax) while being licensed as a pharmacist. Two days after being released from federal custody in April of 2012, Tanana incorporated a pharmacy consulting company. Between the date of incorporation and December of 2013, Tanana’s consulting company received over $400,000 from the LifeCare Pharmacy. LifeCare Pharmacy also paid over one million dollars to a delivery service opened by Wansa Makki’s brother, Mahmoud Makki, in a 14-month period beginning in December of 2013.
According to the Indictment, Wansa Makki used the proceeds to make a $21,500 payment for a Mercedes G63 AMG while Hossam Tanana used fraud proceeds to purchase a $545,000 Waterford Lakehouse. The indictment further alleged that Wansa Makki spent more than $3,000 in dock repairs to the Waterford Lakehouse.
During the investigation, the FBI and United States Attorney’s Office deployed the full arsenal of financial investigation tools to seize assets, which will be returned to the victim taxpayers in the event of a conviction. Seized assets include the following:
- Over $2 million in liquid assets seized from accounts controlled by members of the conspiracy;
- Eight King George Gold Coins valued at over $3,000, One Queen Elizabeth II Gold Coin valued at $378, One Tiffany Diamond Ring Valued at $60,000, six Troy once Suisse gold bars valued at approximately $8,000, and 27 designer handbags – including Hermes Birkin™ and Coco Chanel™ valued at approximately $78,000.
According to court records, upon conviction, the United States Attorney’s Office will seek the forfeiture of the additional following property, the 5,700 square foot residence of Wansa Makki and Hossam Tanana in Dearborn. Further, upon conviction, the United States will seek the forfeiture of $113,000 in proceeds from the sale of a Waterford lake house purchased by Hossam Tanana for $545,000 while he was on federal supervised release following his 2010 distribution of controlled substance conviction.
According to court records, a member of the same conspiracy, Mohamad Ali Makki pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. As part of his plea agreement, Mohamad Ali Makki, agreed to forfeit approximately $2.6 million in liquid assets seized from accounts he controlled. He additionally agreed to the imposition of a $2.3 million forfeiture judgment. The United States is authorized to forfeit any and assets Mohamad Ali Makki owns to satisfy the forfeiture judgment. In addition to the forfeiture judgment, the district court will also impose a restitution judgment of approximately $9.8 million based on the pecuniary losses to Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Each defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted of a health care fraud charge, the defendants face a maximum sentence of imprisonment of ten years, and a maximum fine of $250,000. If convicted of the money laundering charges, the defendants face up to twenty years’ imprisonment. Upon conviction, the court would be required to impose both forfeiture and restitution judgments.
The case was investigated by Special Agents of the HHS and FBI, with cooperation and assistance from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys, Philip Ross and Mitra Jafary-Hariri. Fraud Section Trial Attorney Shankar Ramamurthy previously prosecuted the Asset Forfeiture aspects of this case before transferring to his current position.
Pennsylvania Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
ST. GEORGE, UT – Channing L. Allen, 36, of Stroudsberg, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in federal court in St. George Thursday morning. U.S. Magistrate Judge Paul Kohler conducted the hearing.
A Utah Highway Patrol trooper initiated a traffic stop on I-15 in Iron County on Oct. 7, 2019, after observing traffic violations. Allen, who was driving the vehicle, did not have a current registration for the vehicle. After noticing other issues, the Trooper became suspicious of Allen’s conduct and began an investigation that ultimately led to 47 packages of methamphetamine in after-market compartments installed in the vehicle. The packages weighed approximately 86 pounds.
Allen admitted that he possessed the methamphetamine with intent to distribute and, in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime, he was in possession of a Glock 27 handgun.
U.S. District Judge David Nuffer will impose sentencing in the case Dec. 17, 2020. The plea agreement includes a stipulated sentence of 144 months followed by 60 months of supervised release. The sentence is subject to the approval of the Court.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the St. George U.S. Attorney’s Office are prosecuting the case. UHP troopers and agents with the Utah State Bureau of Investigation are investing the case.