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Wednesday 2 September 2020
San Diego Woman Created Fake “Employees” to Swindle CARES Act Funds; Pleads Guilty to Federal Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – September 1, 2020
SAN DIEGO – Nikole L. Edwards – the founder of Social Savvy Marketing – pleaded guilty today to making false statements to the Small Business Administration. In court, Edwards admitted to submitting fake tax records and payroll information in order to secure a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”).
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act authorized the Small Business Administration to guarantee hundreds of billions of dollars in forgivable loans to small businesses to pay employees through the PPP. In order to obtain a PPP loan, a qualifying business has to provide its average monthly payroll expenses and number of employees, along with supporting documentation. These figures are used to calculate the amount of money the small business is eligible to receive under the PPP. A business’s PPP loan application is received and processed, in the first instance, by a participating financial institution, then transmitted to the Small Business Administration to assess the applicant’s eligibility.
In April and May 2020, Edwards applied for tens of thousands of dollars of PPP loans with three financial institutions. In her applications, Edwards falsely claimed that Social Savvy Marketing employed two individuals who earned annual salaries of $75,000 and $50,000. In reality, Social Savvy Marketing did not have any employees. Edwards also provided false addresses and Social Security numbers for her purported employees. To further support her false claims, Edwards submitted fake W-2s.
After a representative from one financial institution told Edwards that Social Savvy Marketing could not receive a PPP loan, Edwards lied and said: “This is a lifeline for my employees and my business and we won’t survive without it.” Despite not having any employees, Edwards ultimately succeeded in obtaining a $19,583 PPP loan. As part of her plea agreement, Edwards is required to repay the entire $19,583 loan.
“The PPP is designed to help struggling businesses meet legitimate payroll obligations, not to enrich sole proprietors engaging in outright fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer. “We are working diligently with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who abuse this critical lifeline for the nation’s businesses, workers and economy.”
"The Paycheck Protection Program was designed to provide dire relief to business owners and employees suffering during the pandemic,” said Suzanne Turner, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI San Diego Field Office. “The FBI will not tolerate anyone who steals government funds intended to assist Americans who are struggling financially and is committed to tackling COVID-related fraud head on with our law enforcement partners.”
Edwards is scheduled to appear for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel at November 18, 2020 at 8:30 a.m.
The CARES Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses, through the PPP. In April 2020, Congress authorized over $300 billion in additional PPP funding.
The PPP allows qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive loans with a maturity of two years and an interest rate of one percent. PPP loan proceeds must be used by businesses on payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. The PPP allows the interest and principal to be entirely forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses a certain amount of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.
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.
DEFENDANT: Case Number 20-CR-2637-GPC
Nikole L. Edwards Age: 40 San Diego, California
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
False Statements to the Small Business Administration – Title 15, U.S.C., Section 645
Maximum penalty: 2 years’ imprisonment and $5,000 fine
AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General
Salt Lake City Man Pleads Guilty to Fraud Counts in Connection with Getting A Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) LoanRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY – A Salt Lake City resident pleaded guilty to charges in a five-count Felony Information in U.S. District Court Friday in connection with fraudulent representations he made to get a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
Michael Leroi Douros, 64, was charged with two counts of bank fraud, two counts of making a false statement to a bank, and money laundering in the Felony Information. Douros has a previous felony conviction.
“The President and Congress dedicated taxpayer funds to offer relief and hope during this extraordinarily challenging time for our nation. It is disappointing, to say the least, to see an individual use fraud and selfish motives to acquire hundreds of thousands of dollars,” U.S. Attorney John W. Huber said today. “This money could have been used to help reduce the strain on other employers and their employees, who would have qualified for the funds.”
The CARES Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to millions of Americans suffering from the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of up to $249 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses, through the PPP. In April 2020, Congress authorized more than $300 billion in additional PPP funding. Convicted felons and their businesses are not eligible to receive PPP loans.
The PPP allows qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive loans with a maturity of two years and an interest rate of 1 percent. PPP loan proceeds must be used by businesses on payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be entirely forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses a certain amount of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses. The PPP application process requires applicants to submit an application form through an SBA-approved financial entity.
According to court documents filed as a part of his plea agreement, Douros made false representations to two banks in an effort to get a PPP loan for his business, Epic Rentals UT LLC. The business was registered with the Utah Division of Corporations on June 5, 2019, with Zach Douros listed as the registered agent.
The false statements included misrepresentations about Epic Rentals’ monthly payroll and the number of employees the business had; claims that his son owned 50 percent of Epic Rentals when, in fact, his son was a straw owner and did not own any portion of the business; and failure to disclose that he had been convicted of a felony in Utah and was on probation in the last five years.
Douros first filled out and submitted an application through Zions Bank. Zions Bank initially funded the PPP loan of $198,000. However, upon further inspection of the representations in the loan application, the bank cancelled the loan transfer. Douros submitted a second PPP loan application through Cache Valley Bank, which was funded at $239,091.67.
The money laundering conviction relates to a $20,000 payroll check made payable to the defendant from an Epic Rentals bank account.
Sentencing in the case will be Nov. 17, 2020, at 2 p.m. before U.S. District Judge Howard C. Nielson Jr. The potential penalty for the two bank fraud counts and the two false statement to a bank counts is 30 years per count. The potential penalty for money laundering is 10 years in federal prison. He faces a potential $1 million fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the Utah U.S. Attorney’s Office are prosecuting the case. FBI special agents are investigating the matter.
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.
Salina Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Child PornRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Salina man pleaded guilty Tuesday to distributing child pornography. As part of a plea agreement in the case, prosecutors agreed to drop charges that the defendant threatened the life of the President of the United States, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Aaron McDowell, 25, Salina, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of distributing child pornography. Investigators discovered the child pornography while investigating charges that McDowell posted a threat to kill the president on social media.
Investigators examining McDowell’s phone found images of child pornography. They went on to discover that for about a year McDowell used an online chat application to trade child pornography with other users.
Sentencing is set for Nov. 20. The plea agreement recommends McDowell be sentenced to not less than 168 months and not more than 216 months in federal prison. McAllister commended the U.S. Secret Service, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, the Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for their work on the case.
Richfield Man Pleads Guilty to False Mall of America Bomb ThreatRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the guilty plea of VINCENT TOGBE KONNEY, 62, to making a false bomb threat. KONNEY entered his guilty plea today before Judge Nancy E. Brasel in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
According to KONNEY’s guilty plea and documents filed with the court, on August 13, 2018, KONNEY wrote a letter falsely accusing his wife of being part of a plot to bomb the Mall of America. Using a false name, KONNEY sent the letter to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service in retaliation against his wife who was in the naturalization process when the letter was sent. In the letter, KONNEY claimed that while he was riding a bus, he overheard two women discussing a plot to blow up the Mall of America. KONNEY further claimed that one of the women had accidentally dropped her Social Security Card and her Permanent Resident Card and he enclosed with his false letter a photocopy of his wife’s real Permanent Resident Card. KONNEY closed the letter by urging the government to halt a “terrorist threat” by deporting his wife.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Docherty.
Defendant Information:
VINCENT TOGBE KONNEY, 62
Richfield, Minn.
Convicted:
- False bomb threat, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Repatriated ISIS Fighter Pleads Guilty to Terror ChargeRead the Press Release
A repatriated ISIS fighter has pleaded guilty to a terrorism charge, announced the Department of Justice.
Omer Kuzu – a 23-year-old U.S. citizen captured by the Syrian Democratic Forces and returned to the U.S. by the FBI after a five-year stint handling communications for ISIS – pleaded guilty Wednesday to conspiring to provide material support to terrorism.
“The Department of Justice remains committed to holding accountable those who have left this country in order to join and support ISIS,” said John C. Demers, Assistant Attorney General for National Security. “We are thankful for the work of our foreign partners and the FBI in returning Kuzu to this country to face justice in an American courtroom. We hope countries around the world, including our European allies and partners, will likewise take responsibility for their own citizens who traveled to support ISIS.”
“This defendant, an American citizen radicalized on American soil, pledged allegiance to a brutal terrorist group and traveled halfway across the world to enact its agenda,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox for the Northern District of Texas. “The United States must do everything we can to prevent and deter this type of radicalization and prioritize prosecution of those that support the terroristic agenda of ISIS. I am gratified Mr. Kuzu faced justice in an American court.”
“Preventing terrorism remains the FBI’s top mission priority. The defendant intentionally left the United States to join, train with, and fight on behalf of ISIS. The North Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force worked closely with our domestic and foreign partners to ensure the threat he posed was mitigated,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew DeSarno. “We remain vigilant in our effort to prevent terrorism as well as hold terrorists, and those who provide support to terrorist organizations, accountable for their actions.”
In plea papers, Kuzu admits that he and his brother, Yusuf, departed Texas for Istanbul, Turkey on Oct. 16, 2014. They then traveled to Orfa, Turkey, where an “ISIS taxi” picked them up and smuggled them across the border into Syria. They crashed in a series of “waiting houses” before ending up in Mosul, Iraq.
In Mosul, alongside 40 other foreign fighters, the brothers underwent five days of physical and weapons training led by ISIS instructors. They were then sent to Raqqah, Syria, where Kuzu started work at the ISIS telecommunications directorate.
Shortly thereafter, Kuzu admits, he pledged allegiance, or “Bay’ah,” to ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and the Islamic Caliphate. He was given a monthly stipend, a Chinese-made AK 47, and an ISIS bride.
Subsequently, Kuzu was sent to the second lines in Kobani, Syria and Hama, Syria, to provide communications support for ISIS fighters on the front lines. He also worked in the Caliphate’s technology center.
In March 2019, Kuzu was captured by the SDF, alongside 1,500 suspected ISIS fighters. He was handed over to FBI custody, returned to American soil, and charged with conspiring to provide material support to ISIS.
In his plea papers, Kuzu admits that he knew ISIS had been designated a foreign terrorist organization (FTO) and engaged in terrorist activities.
He now faces up to 20 years in federal prison. Sentencing is set for Jan. 22, 2021.
The FBI’s Dallas Field Office conducted the investigation through the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Errin Martin and Tiffany Eggers and Trial Attorney Michael Dittoe of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
Repatriated ISIS Fighter Pleads Guilty to Terror ChargeRead the Press Release
A repatriated ISIS fighter pled guilty to a terrorism charge, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.
Omer Kuzu – a 23-year-old U.S. citizen captured by the Syrian Democratic Forces and returned to the U.S. by the FBI after a five-year stint handling communications for ISIS – pleaded guilty Wednesday to conspiring to provide material support to terrorism.
“This defendant, an American citizen radicalized on American soil, pledged allegiance to a brutal terrorist group and traveled halfway across the world to enact its agenda,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “The United States must do everything we can to prevent and deter this type of radicalization and prioritize prosecution of those that support the terroristic agenda of ISIS. I am gratified Mr. Kuzu faced justice in an American court.”
“Preventing terrorism remains the FBI’s top mission priority. The defendant intentionally left the United States to join, train with, and fight on behalf of ISIS. The North Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force worked closely with our domestic and foreign partners to ensure the threat he posed was mitigated,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew DeSarno. “We remain vigilant in our effort to prevent terrorism as well as hold terrorists, and those who provide support to terrorist organizations, accountable for their actions.”
“The Department of Justice remains committed to holding accountable those who have left this country in order to join and support ISIS,” said John C. Demers, Assistant Attorney General for National Security. “We are thankful for the work of our foreign partners and the FBI in returning Kuzu to this country to face justice in an American courtroom. We hope countries around the world, including our European allies and partners, will likewise take responsibility for their own citizens who traveled to support ISIS.”
In plea papers, Mr. Kuzu (now 25) admits that he and his brother, Yusuf, departed Texas for Istanbul, Turkey on Oct. 16, 2014. They then traveled to Orfa, Turkey, where an “ISIS taxi” picked them up and smuggled them across the border into Syria. They crashed in a series of “waiting houses” before ending up in Mosul, Iraq.
In Mosul, alongside 40 other foreign fighters, the brothers underwent five days of physical and weapons training led by ISIS instructors. They were then sent to Raqqah, Syria, where Mr. Kuzu started work at the ISIS telecommunications directorate.
Shortly thereafter, Mr. Kuzu admits, he pledged allegiance, or “Bay’ah,” to ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and the Islamic Caliphate. He was given a monthly stipend, a Chinese-made AK-47, and took an ISIS bride.
Subsequently, Mr. Kuzu was sent to the second lines in Kobani, Syria and Hama, Syria, to provide communications support for ISIS fighters on the front lines. He also worked in the Caliphate’s technology center.
In March 2019, Mr. Kuzu was captured by the SDF, alongside 1,500 suspected ISIS fighters. He was handed over to FBI custody, returned to American soil, and charged with conspiring to provide material support to ISIS.
In his plea papers, Mr. Kuzu admits that he knew ISIS had been designated a foreign terrorist organization (FTO) and engaged in terrorist activities.
He now faces up to 20 years in federal prison. His sentencing is set for Jan. 22, 2021.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office conducted the investigation through the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Errin Martin and Tiffany Eggers and Trial Attorney Michael Dittoe of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
Registered Child Sex Offender Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Posssessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A registered child sex offender living in Perry, Georgia was sentenced to ten years in prison today after an international investigation found he was uploading child pornography on a popular instant messaging app, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia.
David Franklin Browder, III, 31, of Perry, Georgia was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell to 120 months in prison followed by 25 years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography. Judge Treadwell also ordered that Browder pay $3,000 in restitution to each identifiable victim in the 213 images of child sexual exploitation the defendant possessed. Browder will also have to register as a sex offender in any state where he resides following his release from prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
The defendant admitted that, using the name “yappydappy,” he uploaded images of minors, including an infant, being sexually abused onto the Kik instant messaging app. Canadian authorities first began investigating the case in 2019, discovering the account was associated with an IP address located in the United States. They provided the file to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Atlanta, through the HSI Cyber Crimes Center for further investigation. On January 8, 2020, HSI agents, with the assistance of the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, executed a federal search warrant at the Perry residence where the defendant lived, seizing devices belonging to Browder. A HSI forensic analysis found approximately 213 image files containing child sexual exploitation material. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s (NCMEC) Child Recognition and Identification System (CRIS) was used to identify child victims contained in the images. In all, the CRIS system identified 49 images from nine known series of child pornography contained within the defendant’s image files. Browder is a repeat child sex offender and was convicted in 2008 in the Superior Court of Houston County, Georgia for criminal attempt to commit child molestation and sexual battery of a minor.
“Browder is a repeat child sex offender, with two previous state convictions for egregious crimes against children in Houston County. He will now spend the next ten years in a federal prison, where there is no parole,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “Tracking down this child predator, and removing him from the streets of Perry, is the result of the excellent partnership between HSI Ottawa and HSI Atlanta. I want to thank both agencies for their work in this case, and for their total dedication to saving children worldwide from the grip of their abusers.”
“The children of Houston County, Georgia should sleep easier knowing a child pedophile is off their streets for the next decade,” said acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) operations in Georgia and Alabama. “These types of heinous investigations wouldn’t be possible without the great partnerships of the Houston County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office."
The case was investigated by HSI Atlanta, HSI Ottawa, Canada with assistance from the Houston County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shanelle Booker prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Pueblo Man Found Guilty of Being A Felon in Possession of A Firearm Following Two-Day Jury TrialRead the Press Release
DENVER – United States Attorney Jason R. Dunn today announced that Maximillian Zeferino Esquibel, age 32 of Pueblo, was found guilty following a two-day jury trial in U.S. District Court in Colorado. The jury deliberated for less than 3 hours before reaching their verdict. Following the trial, which was before U.S. District Court Judge R. Brooke Jackson, the judge continued Esquibel’s bond pending sentencing, which is scheduled for December 4, 2020. Esquibel appeared at the trial in person. This is the first criminal jury trial in the District of Colorado since COVID-19 impacted the court system in March. The FBI and Southern Colorado Safe Streets Violent Gang Task Force joined in this announcement.
According to court documents and facts presented at trial, on August 9, 2019, law enforcement agents and officers executed a search warrant at Esquibel’s residence. He was present during the execution of the warrant, along with his girlfriend. There were children present as well.
During the search investigators found four firearms, including an AR-15 style rifle, with the safety switch turned to the “fire” position, loaded with an extended magazine that contained multiple rounds of live ammunition. Three other firearms and over 100 rounds of ammunition were also seized.
Esquibel had a prior felony conviction in Pueblo County in 2006 for aggravated robbery, making it a crime for him to possess firearms.
This case was investigated by the FBI and Southern Coloarado Safe Streets Violent Gang Task Force. The trial was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason St. Julien and Thomas Minser.
This case is 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 Project Guardian partners.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado. Related court documents can be found on PACER by searching for Case Number 19-cr-376.
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.
President & Executive Vice President of Republic Group, Inc. Indicted and Arrested for Conspiracy to Commit Wire FraudRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, P.R. – On Monday, August 31, 2020, defendant, Gary Steven Wykle and Alejandro Cortés-López were arrested and charged in a fourteen-count indictment alleging Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, Securities Fraud, and Wire Fraud, announced today W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. The FBI was in charge of the investigation.
Gary Steven Wyckle and Alejandro Cortés-López were, respectively, the President and Executive Vice President of The Republic Group, Inc. From in or about 2010, through 2017, Wyckle, and Cortés-López, along with other individuals known and unknown to the Grand Jury, raised over $12,000,000 in so-called Promissory Notes on behalf of The Republic Group, Inc.
Defendants Wyckle and Cortés-López solicited investors in person, via telephone, and via the internet, and caused materially false and misleading representations to be made to investors. Wyckle and Cortés-López falsely stated to investors that their investment would facilitate high-interest rate, short-term loans for various companies, including hotels, resorts, and other hospitality industries in the Dominican Republic, and elsewhere. The defendants failed to disclose to investors that investments would be used for Wyckle’s personal expenses, goods and services at retail stores, restaurants, travel, rent, entertainment, and to make lulling payments to existing investors. Defendant Cortés-López was paid a commission, which he failed to disclose, from each investor that he brought to The Republic Group, Inc.
“The defendants’ alleged conduct undermines the confidence investors place in the financial markets,” said U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow. “Financial markets are governed by rules that are supposed to protect investors. These defendants, skilled at convincing individuals to place their trust in them, engaged in a ‘Ponzi’ scheme to defraud investors, and ultimately cost them millions of dollars. We will investigate and prosecute these types of crimes to the fullest extent of the law.”
“When people lose trust in the systems, society crumbles. This is why the FBI is committed to staying ahead of this threat, by following the evidence wherever it may lead and pursuing these cases to the fullest extent of the law,” said Rafael Riviere Vázquez, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI.
Investors who believe they are victims of Gary Steven Wykle and Alejandro Cortés-López, and who signed contracts with them or The Republic Group, Inc., are encouraged to contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at (787) 766-5656, to obtain information about the proceedings and their rights to restitution.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward Veronda. Both defendants are facing a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and a fine not to exceed $1,000,000.
An indictment is only an accusation and not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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Portland Woman Charged with Civil Disorder After Throwing Helmet at Police OfficerRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—Michelle Peterson O’Connor, 31, of Portland, has been charged by criminal complaint with civil disorder after throwing a helmet at an officer making an arrest during an unlawful assembly in Portland on August 24, 2020.
According to court documents, in the early morning hours of August 24, 2020, the Portland Police Bureau’s Rapid Response Team was conducting crowd control duties during a riot near the bureau’s Northeast Precinct. Portland officers witnessed O’Connor pick up a helmet from the ground and throw it at an officer arresting another person, striking the officer in the head. O’Connor was arrested without incident.
O’Connor made her initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was released pending further court proceedings. If convicted, O’Connor faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the FBI. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Portland Man Charged with Repeatedly Assaulting Federal Officers with VehicleRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—Lonnie Vantewa Albert, 55, of Portland, has been charged by criminal complaint for allegedly assaulting two Federal Protective Service officers with a sport utility vehicle on August 30, 2020, announced Billy J. Williams, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
According to court documents, in the early morning hours of August 30, two Federal Protective Service officers deployed to Portland in support of ongoing federal law enforcement operations departed the Edith Green-Wendell Wyatt Federal Building in a rental vehicle en route to their hotel. Both officers were wearing their government-issued uniform with visible police patches and a badge.
While driving east on Interstate 84 approaching Interstate 205, one of the officers observed a gray sport utility vehicle passing on their left. The officer observed the other driver, later identified as Albert, glance toward him. Albert then turned sharply, nearly hitting the officers’ vehicle. The driving officer made several attempts to change lanes and pass Albert, but Albert swerved in either direction to block their vehicle. After positioning his vehicle to the officers’ left, Albert turned sharply to the right, striking the officers’ vehicle and causing his own vehicle to spin before coming to a stop.
When one of the officers got out of the vehicle to see if Albert was injured, Albert drove toward the officer, veered left, and fled the scene. The officers briefly pursued Albert to collect his license plate number and other identifying information. Albert then exited the freeway and stopped his vehicle near Adventist Health Portland, a hospital on SE 100th Avenue. When the officers pulled into the hospital parking lot, Albert pursued at a high rate of speed and struck the officers’ vehicle a second time.
Shortly thereafter, Portland Police Bureau officers placed Albert under arrest. The FPS officers’ vehicle sustained visible dents, scratches, and other damage.
Albert made his first appearance in federal court on September 1, 2020 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was released on conditions pending further court proceedings. If convicted, Albert faces a maximum sentence of eight years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Federal Protective Service. It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Portland Couple Sentenced to Federal Prison for Fraud Scheme Targeting Elderly CoupleRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland couple with previous fraud convictions was sentenced to federal prison today for defrauding a local elderly couple of approximately $1.6 million in a scheme lasting more than two years, announced U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams.
Ronnie Stevens aka Tim Ephrem, 51, was sentenced to 71 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. Steven’s wife, Tina Ephrem aka Lisa Ann Peterson, 44, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.
“Elder abuse is a devastating crime that can leave its victims financially and emotionally damaged for the rest of their lives,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “Seniors fall victim to fraud schemes at far greater rates than the rest of the population. We all need to watch out for our elderly friends and loved ones. Your vigilance will make a difference. Our office remains committed to stopping the full range of criminal activities seeking to exploit Oregon’s seniors.”
“Prison sentences and restitution are what we can offer in the justice system. But, how can these elderly victims recover their sense of security and ability to trust others in what should be their golden years?” said Renn Cannon, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon. “Stevens and Ephrem can never truly repair the damage they have done through their selfishness.”
“On behalf of the Tigard Police Department, I want to express our appreciation to our federal partners who assisted us with investigation,” said Tigard Police Chief Kathy McAlpine. “This was a serious crime occurring in Tigard as individuals preyed upon our elder community, one of our most vulnerable populations. The successful prosecution of this case has ensured the perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.”
According to court documents, between September 2016 and December 2018, Stevens and Ephrem conspired with one another to defraud an elderly couple, Adult Victim 1 (AV1) and Adult Victim 2 (AV2).
The scheme began in September 2016 when AV1, who was 76 years old at the time, offered a commercial trailer for sale at his business. Stevens claimed he brokered vehicle sales and could sell the trailer in exchange for a cut of the profit. Stevens did not ultimately sell the trailer, but quickly ingratiated himself with the victim.
Stevens later approached AV1 with an alleged lucrative investment opportunity. Stevens claimed that a friend named Tammy Ward was set to inherit an estate valued in excess of $100 million from her recently deceased father, but could not come up with the fees and legal costs necessary to release the estate. Stevens told AV1 that if he could advance the funds to release the estate, AV1 would receive a substantial return when the estate closed.
AV1 made multiple payments to Stevens over a period of time as Stevens told him various stories about delays and increased costs associated with the release of the estate. As part of the conspiracy, AV1 and AV2 both spoke to a woman on the phone who claimed to be Tammy Ward. Investigators revealed that Tammy Ward was a fictitious identity used by Stevens and Ephrem as part of the fraud scheme.
Between 2016 and 2018, Stevens placed more than 5,000 outgoing calls to AV1 and AV2 and, along with Ephrem, stole more than $1.6 million from their two victims. Stevens and Ephrem spent the stolen money on rent, utility bills, restaurants, cigars, luxury retail purchases and repeated travel to Las Vegas, Nevada and other locations including Hawaii, Anaheim, California, and Spirit Mountain Lodge in Grand Ronde, Oregon.
Stevens and Ephrem were arrested on January 11, 2019. They made their initial appearances in federal court the same day and were ordered detained.
On January 8, 2019, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Stevens and Emphrem. Together, on November 18, 2019, they pleaded guilty to conspiring with one another to commit wire fraud.
During sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge Michael W. Mosman ordered Stevens and Emphrem to pay more than $1.6 in restitution to their victims.
This case was investigated by the Tigard Police Department and the FBI and is being prosecuted by Donna Maddux and Julia Jarrett, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.
Elder abuse is a serious crime against some of our nation’s most vulnerable citizens, affecting nearly 10% of older Americans every year. Together with our federal, state, local and tribal partners, the Department of Justice and U.S. Attorney’s Office is steadfastly committed to combatting all forms of elder abuse and financial exploitation through enforcement actions, training and resources, research, victim services, and public awareness.
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911.
If you or someone you know needs help, abuse complaints may be filed with the FTC at www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder abuse victimization through its Office of Victims of Crime, which can be reached at www.ovc.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.
Porter Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft or Embezzlement by Bank EmployeeRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Deborah Kay Jenkins, age 48, of Porter, Oklahoma entered a guilty plea to Theft, Embezzlement Or Misapplication By Bank Employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 656, punishable by up to 30 years of imprisonment, a fine up to $1,000,000.00, or both.
The Information alleged that From in or about May 2017 through in or about February 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, being an employee of, and connected in a capacity with First Bank in Porter, Oklahoma, a bank whose deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, with intent to injure and defraud the said First Bank, willfully misapplied, embezzled, abstracted, and purloined more than $1,000.00 of the moneys, funds, assets and securities entrusted to the custody and care of First Bank, in that the defendant withdrew cash and transferred funds from the bank and misapplied, embezzled, abstracted and purloined the funds.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Jordan represented the United States at the plea hearing.
Pittsburgh Felon Charged in Shooting of ATF Special Agent in June 2020Read the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of assault on a federal employee, and violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
According to U.S. Attorney Brady, on June 18, 2020, a multi-agency enforcement action was occurring in Pittsburgh’s Uptown neighborhood following the indictment of members of a large-scale cocaine trafficking organization. At approximately 6:00 a.m., a Special Agent on a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Special Response Team was shot and wounded as he breached a doorway.
The three-count Indictment, returned on September 1, named Dion Williams, age 44, of Pittsburgh, as the sole defendant.
"My office has zero tolerance for assaults upon or violence directed against law enforcement officers. Violent drug trafficking felons like Dion Williams who brazenly use illegal firearms to shoot at law enforcement officers have no place in western Pennsylvania," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "We will continue to use all available resources to dismantle drug gangs and bring violent criminals to justice, and to protect the men and women of law enforcement who work tirelessly every day to keep us all safe."
"It’s essential that we keep law enforcement officers safe as they protect and serve the nation’s communities," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman. "Assault on law enforcement officers undermines the rule of law and will not be tolerated. Anyone who fires at law enforcement threatens the safety of our community and will face serious legal consequences. I am thankful the injured ATF agent is recovering and appreciative of his service and dedication."
"While danger is an inherent part of our job as law enforcement officers we take anyone who tries to kill a federal agent as a clear and present danger to not only law enforcement but the community as a whole," said John Schmidt, acting Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. "Today, we applaud the multi-jurisdictional efforts that resulted in the indictment of this alleged violent offender. ATF, along with our local, state and federal partners will continue to target violent individuals who have little regard for the law and human life."
According to the Indictment, Williams is accused of using a deadly and dangerous weapon to assault and inflict bodily injury upon a member of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Williams is also accused of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Williams has four prior drug convictions in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, and has one prior conviction for
distribution and possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than ten years in prison, nor more than life imprisonment, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Douglas C. Maloney and Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Parent Charged in College Admissions CaseRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Massachusetts man was indicted by a federal grand jury in connection with using fraud and bribery to have his daughter designated as a tennis recruit for Georgetown University.
Amin Khoury, 54, of Palm Beach, Fla. and Mashpee, Mass., was indicted on one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and honest services mail fraud and bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds and one count of bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds.
According to the indictment, in May 2014, Khoury agreed to pay Gordon Ernst, who at the time was employed as the head coach of men’s and women’s tennis at Georgetown University, approximately $200,000 through a third-party in exchange for Ernst designating Khoury’s daughter as a purported tennis recruit to Georgetown University, despite the fact that Khoury’s daughter’s tennis skills were below that of a typical Georgetown tennis recruit.
In December 2014, Georgetown mailed Khoury’s daughter a letter informing her that the Committee on Admissions had reviewed her application at Ernst’s request, and had rated her admission as “likely.” In May 2015, after Khoury’s daughter was formally accepted to Georgetown, Khoury allegedly flew to Massachusetts with $200,000 in cash. Khoury then met with a third-party at his Cape Cod home and gave the third-party $180,000 in cash with the understanding that the money would be given to Ernst, and also provided the third-party with $20,000. The third-party then allegedly drove to Falmouth where he met with Ernst’s spouse and provided her with $170,000 in cash, keeping $10,000 as an additional fee. It is further alleged that Ernst thereafter continued to pursue Khoury to collect the remaining $20,000 that Khoury owed Ernst as part of the recruitment deal.
Case information, including the status of each defendant, charging documents and plea agreements are available here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/investigations-college-admissions-and-testing-bribery-scheme.
The charge of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and honest services mail fraud and bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds 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 bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Joleen Simpson, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston; and Mark Deckett, Resident Agent in Charge of the Department of Education, Office of Inspector General made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric S. Rosen, Justin D. O’Connell, Leslie A. Wright, Kristen A. Kearney, Stephen E. Frank and Karin M. Bell of Lelling’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Overland Park Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – An Overland Park man pleaded guilty today to possessing 152 videos containing child pornography, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Alan Noltensmeyer, 46, Overland Park, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of possessing child pornography. The investigation began when the FBI was investigating how people were using software designed to provide anonymity for obtaining and trading child pornography. Investigators identified Noltensmeyer’s IP address. They found approximately 2,400 images and 152 videos containing child pornography on an external hard drive and optical disc.
Sentencing is set for Dec. 3. He could face a sentence of not less than five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. McAllister commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Flannigan for their work on the case.
Operation Legend: Case of the DayRead the Press Release
Each weekday, the Department of Justice will highlight a case that has resulted from Operation Legend. Today’s case is out of the Southern District of Indiana. Operation Legend launched in Indianapolis on Aug. 14, 2020 in response to the city facing record-breaking homicide and non-fatal shooting rates. In just the first two weeks, the operation has already yielded impactful results; federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies have seized 49 guns and arrested 18 fugitives.
United States vs. John Green
"The goal of Operation Legend is to provide neighborhoods where all the people of Indianapolis can safely live, work and raise their families," said U.S. Attorney Joshua Minkler for the Southern District of Indiana. "Federal agents working with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department to remove a trigger puller and his illegally possessed firearms from our streets moves all of us one step closer to that goal."
John Green was charged on Aug. 8, 2020, with unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, according to a criminal complaint filed in Federal Court in the Southern District of Indiana. The Bureau of Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) led the investigation.
According to the criminal complaint, on Aug. 8, 2020, IMPD was dispatched to an incomplete call where a female claimed to be shot. A witness described a black male wearing a black shirt and khaki pants shooting a firearm. IMPD officers identified John Green a block away. When the officers engaged him, Green advised that he did not have any firearms. After Green was located, the witness further described Green shooting a rifle in the air in his front yard. Authorities located two (2) spent rifle casings in Green’s front yard. An evidence technician reported to the scene and collected the two (2) spent .223 casings. The witness identified Green as the person shooting a rifle in the front yard while children were outside playing in the area.
IMPD advised Green that two (2) shell casings were found in his front yard and that a search warrant was being written for his residence. When IMPD asked Green if any firearms would be located in the residence and Green replied “no.”
Subsequently, Green told IMPD officers that they would find a 9mm and AR-15 in his home. A search warrant was obtained for Green’s residence and a Ruger AR-15 rifle and a Hi-Point 9mm were located inside. The rifle was loaded and the round in the chamber matched the ammunition from the casings in the front yard. Multiple additional rifle and pistol magazines were located in Green’s residence.
Because of a previous felony conviction punishable by more than one year in prison, Green is prohibited from possessing firearms.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Background on Operation Legend
President Trump promised to assist America’s cities that have been plagued by violence. In July, Attorney General William P. Barr announced the launch of Operation Legend, a sustained, systematic and coordinated law enforcement initiative across all federal law enforcement agencies working in conjunction with state and local law enforcement officials to fight violent crime in cities across America that were experiencing an uptick in violence. Operation Legend is named after four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, who was shot and killed on June 29th in Kansas City, Missouri while he slept in his home.
Operation Legend was launched in Kansas City, Mo., on July 8, 2020, and expanded to Chicago and Albuquerque on July 22, 2020, to Cleveland, Detroit, and Milwaukee on July 29, 2020, to St. Louis and Memphis on Aug. 6, 2020, and to Indianapolis on Aug. 14, 2020. As part of Operation Legend, Attorney General Barr has directed federal agents from the FBI, U.S. Marshal Service, DEA and ATF to surge resources these cities to help state and local officials fighting violent crime. Since its inception, Operation Legend has yielded close to 1500 local, state, and federal arrests.
Ohio Tax Attorney Sentenced to Prison for Obstructing the IRSRead the Press Release
A Columbus, Ohio, attorney was sentenced to 18 months in prison today, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney David DeVillers for the Southern District of Ohio.
According to documents and information provided to the court, Marcus “Marc” Dunn was a licensed attorney in Ohio. From 2007 until his client Dr. Kevin Lake died, Dunn advised and assisted Dr. Lake in legal matters relating to the operation of his clinics, including Columbus Southern Medical Clinic in Columbus, Ohio. At the time, Dunn specialized in tax law.
Around 2010, the IRS audited Dr. Lake’s entities. In response to an IRS revenue officer’s request for documentation supporting the entities’ claimed clinical equipment depreciation deductions, Dunn provided false “bills of sale” purporting to support the deductions, but which in fact falsely inflated the value of the equipment. At the same time that Dunn provided these inflated values to the IRS, he provided contradictory valuation information to third parties.
In 2011, Dunn filed petitions in U.S. Tax Court challenging the IRS’s determination that some of the audited entities owed additional taxes. The case was ultimately settled with an agreement that approximately $608,583 was due. When the IRS revenue officer attempted to collect the settlement amount in 2014, Dunn frustrated the IRS’s collection efforts by falsely representing that the relevant entities were defunct with no assets. In all, Dunn caused a tax loss of $513,960 to the United States.
On Nov. 26, 2018, Dunn pleaded guilty to corruptly endeavoring to impede and obstruct the IRS and the Supreme Court of Ohio suspended Dunn’s license to practice law in March 2019.
In January 2017, Dr. Lake pleaded guilty to drug, tax, and fraud charges, but died before sentencing in that case.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson ordered Dunn to serve 3 years of supervised release. Restitution to the government has already been paid using funds seized from Dr. Lake.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney DeVillers commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Richard M. Rolwing and Carl F. Brooker of the Tax Division, who prosecuted the case.
North Stratford Man Sentenced to 21 Months for Selling Prescription Drugs in School ZoneRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Timothy L. Adjutant, 28, of North Stratford, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for distributing buprenorphine near a school, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 14, 2018, in Colebrook, Adjutant sold buprenorphine, also known as Suboxone, to an individual who was cooperating with law enforcement officers. At the time of the sale, Adjutant indicated he had more Suboxone for sale. On December 4, 2018, Adjutant sold Suboxone to a cooperating individual in the parking lot of a drug store in Colebrook. Both transactions occurred within 1,000 feet of the Colebrook Elementary School.
Suboxone is a controlled substance that is often prescribed as a treatment for opioid withdrawal symptoms. As an opioid itself, however, it is still subject to abuse if injected or snorted and can produce a euphoria similar to other opioids like heroin and fentanyl.
Federal law provides that a person who distributes a controlled substance within 1000 feet of a school is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in prison.
Adjutant previously pleaded guilty on May 6, 2020.
“Drug trafficking endangers public health and safety in small and large communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This is especially true with the illegal sales of opioids. In order to safeguard our citizens, we will continue to work closely with all of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to identify, prosecute and incarcerate the criminals responsible for trafficking drugs.”
This matter was investigated by the DEA, with assistance from the Colebrook Police Department, the Pittsburg Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, the New Hampshire Liquor Commission’s Division of Enforcement and Licensing, the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John S. Davis and Charles L. Rombeau.
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Nine Boston Police Officers Arrested for Overtime Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Nine current and former Boston Police Officers were arrested today and charged in connection with committing over $200,000 in overtime fraud at the Boston Police Department’s evidence warehouse.
Lieutenant Timothy Torigian, 54, of Walpole; Sergeant Gerard O’Brien (retired), 62, of Braintree; Sergeant Robert Twitchell (retired), 58, of Norton; Officer Henry Doherty (retired), 61, of Dorchester; Officer Diana Lopez (retired), 58, of Milton; Officer James Carnes (retired), 57, of Canton; Officer Michael Murphy, 60, of Hyde Park; Officer Ronald Nelson (retired), 60, of Jamaica Plain; and Officer Kendra Conway, 49, of Boston, were each charged in an indictment unsealed today with one count of conspiracy to commit theft concerning programs receiving federal funds and one count of embezzlement from an agency receiving federal funds. The defendants will make initial appearances via videoconference in federal court in Boston later today.
“I am a strong supporter of the police, especially in these difficult times. But all must be treated equally under the law, regardless of wealth, power or station,” said United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling. “These officers are charged with stealing taxpayer money, year after year, through fraud. Beyond the theft of funds, this kind of official misconduct also erodes trust in public institutions, at a time when that trust is most needed. I want to thank Commissioner Willie Gross for his cooperation in this case, and the BPD’s Anti-Corruption Unit for its assistance.”
“As law enforcement officers, we have a tremendous responsibility to the public we serve, and therefore must be held to the highest standards of trust and integrity. These police officers are accused of breaking that trust by conspiring to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars to increase their paychecks,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “They are the anomaly from the honest and hard-working men and women of the BPD. We’d like to thank Commissioner Gross and his department for their invaluable assistance in putting an end to this systemic practice and helping us root out these individuals who we believe decided to take advantage of their positions for their own personal gain.”
“Law enforcement officers are expected to perform their duties honorably and with integrity, not to take advantage of the system for personal gain. Today, the OIG, along with the FBI, arrested nine current and former Boston police officers who allegedly submitted time slips that did not reflect the hours they actually worked. The OIG is committed to fully investigating all allegations concerning violations of public trust,” said Guido Modano, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General New York Field Office.
“As a result of an investigation, information was uncovered by the Boston Police Department’s Anti-Corruption Unit regarding alleged payroll/overtime abuse by officers assigned to the Evidence Management Unit. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Attorney’s Office became involved with the criminal investigation into the allegations. As a result of the investigation, former and current Boston Police Officers were indicted by a Federal Grand Jury. Pursuant to applicable law, the officers indicted that currently work for the department have been suspended without pay pending the outcome of the case.” Said Police Commissioner William Gross, “The allegations and behavior alleged in today’s indictments is very troubling and in no way reflect the attitudes of the hard-working employees of the Boston Police Department. I hold my officers to the highest standards and expect them to obey all the laws that they have taken an oath to uphold. News of these indictments sends a strong message that this type of behavior will not be tolerated or ignored and can damage the trust my officers have worked so hard to build with the communities we serve.”
According to the indictment, the defendants were assigned to Boston Police Department’s (BPD) Evidence Control Unit (ECU), where they were responsible for, among other things, storing, cataloging and retrieving evidence at the warehouse. ECU officers were eligible to earn overtime pay of 1.5 times their regular hourly pay rate for overtime assignments. It is alleged that beginning in at least May 2016, the defendants routinely departed overtime shifts two or more hours early but submitted false and fraudulent overtime slips claiming to have worked the entirety of each shift.
One overtime shift, called “purge” overtime, was focused on reducing the inventory of the evidence warehouse. The shift was supposed to be performed from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays. On days which the defendants claimed to have worked until 8:00 p.m., the warehouse was closed, locked and alarmed well before 8:00 p.m., and often by 6:00 p.m. or before. Despite this, it is alleged that the defendants routinely submitted false and fraudulent overtime slips claiming to have worked from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Supervisors, who also left early from this shift, allegedly submitted their own false and fraudulent slips and also knowingly endorsed the fraudulent overtime slips of their subordinates.
Another shift, called “kiosk” overtime, was available to two ECU officers one Saturday a month from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This shift involved collecting materials, such as unused prescription drugs, from kiosks in each police district in the city and then transporting the materials to an incinerator in Saugus. It is alleged that defendants who performed this overtime shift routinely submitted overtime slips claiming to have worked eight and a half hours when in fact the defendants frequently completed the work and left the shift early, often before 10:00 a.m.
Between May 2016 and February 2019 the defendants allegedly collectively embezzled over $200,000 in overtime pay. According to court documents, Torigian received over $43,000 for overtime hours he did not work; Twitchell, O’Brien and Doherty each received over $25,000 for overtime hours they did not work; Carnes and Lopez each received over $20,000 for overtime hours they did not work; and Murphy, Nelson and Conway each received over $15,000 for overtime hours they did not work.
From 2016 through 2018, BPD received annual benefits from the U.S. Department of Transportation and U.S. Department of Justice in excess of $10,000, which were funded pursuant to numerous federal grants.
The charge of embezzlement from an agency receiving federal funds provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss. The charge of conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Lelling, FBI Boston SAC Bonavolonta, DOJ-OIG SAC Modano and BPD Commissioner Gross made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Grady of Lelling’s Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
New Jersey Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography, Cyberstalking ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Timothy Myers, 35, of Freehold, NJ, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to production of child pornography and cyberstalking. The charges carry a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum penalty of 35 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that between December 2016 and August 2017, the defendant, using the names “CJ Mikowski” and “Colin James,” communicated via Facebook with five minor girls who lived in the Western District of New York. During those communications, Myers pretended to be a boy close in age to the minor girls with whom he was speaking. The defendant then coerced or attempted to coerce, each of the minor girls, who ranged in age from 13-16 years old, into sending sexually explicit visual depictions of themselves. Myers also transported one victim from New York State to New Jersey and engaged in sexual intercourse with her, and distributed sexually explicit images of the victim over Facebook.
In addition, between March and August 2017, the defendant, while residing in New Jersey and using the alias Colin James, contacted one of the victims via Facebook and made her believe she was in a relationship with him. Myers then persuaded the victim to produce sexually explicit images of herself. When the victim did not send the defendant additional sexually explicit images, he threatened to distribute images of the victim that he had already obtained. This repeated harassment caused the victim substantial emotional distress. Myers also used Facebook to contact three other victims using the names CJ Mikowski and Colin James. Once again, he made the victims believe that he was in a relationship with them and requested that they produce sexually explicit images of themselves. The defendant told the victims that if they did not send him these images, he would distribute previously sent images of the victims. These victims also suffered substantial emotional distress as a result of defendant’s repeated and sustained harassment.
The plea is the result of an investigation by New York State Police, under the direction of Major James Hall, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kelly.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 17, 2020, before Judge Geraci.
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Native Mob Gang Member Sentenced to 270 Months in Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of TEVIN JAY MAURSTAD, 25, to 270 months in prison. Following a two-day bench trial, MAURSTAD was convicted on October 25, 2019, on six counts of drug trafficking and firearms violations. MAURSTAD was sentenced yesterday before Judge Susan Richard Nelson in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota
“The defendant is a dangerous Native Mob gang member with a penchant for violence. He has a long history of drug trafficking, violence, and during the course of the investigation, he tried to intimidate witnesses,” said United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald. “With this sentence, the court has recognized the danger he imposes to communities and has sentenced him accordingly.”
As proven at trial, on August 4, 2016, MAURSTAD was pulled over in Morrison County for a traffic violation. During a search of his vehicle, law enforcement found a loaded .45 caliber handgun, a pound of methamphetamine and digital scales in the hood of the vehicle. On January 29, 2018, law enforcement pulled over a black Chrysler 300 for speeding. MAURSTAD, who was driving the vehicle, was unable to produce a driver’s license. After a search of the vehicle, law enforcement found methamphetamine hidden inside the paneling of the vehicle. On February 13, 2018, federal law enforcement searched a storage unit rented by MAURSTAD. Law enforcement recovered a large quantity of ammunition and firearm accessories and Native Mob paraphernalia.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office, the Carlton County Sheriff’s Office, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Minnesota Department of Corrections. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime. This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew R. Winter and Bradley M. Endicott prosecuted the case.
Defendant Information:
TEVIN JAY MAURSTAD, 25
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, 1 Count
- Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, 2 Counts
- Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, 1 Count
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm, 1 Count
- Felon in Possession of Ammunition, 1 Count
Sentenced:
- 270 months in prison
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Myrtle Beach Man Sentenced to More Than 15 Years in Federal Prison for Selling Heroin that Caused Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
Florence, South Carolina --- United States Attorney Peter M. McCoy, Jr., announced today that Caleb Wade Sexton, 22, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced to more than 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to selling a quantity of heroin and fentanyl that resulted in a March 12, 2019, overdose death in Myrtle Beach.
"These cases are too common in our state, and we will continue to swiftly and severely prosecute those who push drugs that kill others,” said U.S. Attorney McCoy. “This case is another example of the impressive work from our joint federal, and state partners, and in particular the local task force designed to disrupt and dismantle the flow of deadly opioids into the Myrtle Beach area.”
“Let it be known that those who bring this poison into our community and threaten the lives of those who live, visit and work in our great State will be held accountable,” said Chief Amy Prock of the Myrtle Beach Police Department. “We will not stand by and let this happen. We will be intentional in our actions and we will not rest.”
Evidence presented to the court showed that on March 12, 2019, Sexton distributed a quantity of heroin and fentanyl to an individual who overdosed and died after using the drugs. Officers quickly identified Sexton as the suspect in this overdose and developed a confidential source who, working at the direction of law enforcement, purchased quantities of heroin and fentanyl from Sexton on several occasions. At the time of his arrest, Sexton was in possession of a quantity of heroin and fentanyl, and had a loaded Glock 27 pistol in the waistband of his pants. A search of his vehicle revealed additional heroin and fentanyl, along with a Mini Draco .223 assault handgun loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition. A search warrant was executed on the day of the arrest at a warehouse suspected to be used to prepare the drugs for distribution. There law enforcement located a bag of marijuana, a scale, two bags of clear capsules, and a stick suspected of being used to fill the capsules with illegal drugs. Sexton was ultimately charged with various violations of federal narcotics and firearms laws, and with distributing a controlled substance resulting in death and serious bodily injury.
Chief United States District Judge R. Bryan Harwell sentenced Sexton to 188 months in federal prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Myrtle Beach Police Department, Horry County Police Department, and with the assistance of the Horry County Coroner’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Everett McMillian of the Florence office prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
More Than $900,000 Coming to the Western District of New York to Fight Violence Against WomenRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women, has awarded three grants totaling more than $900,000 to a university, a college, and a social service agency in the Western District of New York.
Niagara University in Lewiston, NY, will receive $300,000, and Nazareth College in Rochester, NY, will receive $299,957, under the Grants to Reduce Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking on Campus Program. The program focuses on combatting domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on campuses. These comprehensive efforts are designed to enhance victim services, implement prevention and education programs, and develop and strengthen security and investigation strategies in order to prevent, prosecute, and respond to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
Niagara University will partner with the New York State Police, Campus Sexual Assault Victims Unit, Niagara County Sheriff Victim Assistance Unit, and the YWCA of the Niagara Frontier. Nazareth College will partner with the New York State Police, the Willow Domestic Violence Center, and RESTORE Sexual Assault Services. Efforts to implement a comprehensive violence against women project on campus will include: prevention programming; ongoing training to all law enforcement on how to effectively respond to these crimes; access to 24-hour confidential victim services and advocacy; and ongoing training to all personnel in the campus disciplinary process.
In addition, Community Services For Every1, Inc. in Buffalo, NY, will be receiving $325,000 under the Training and Services to End Violence Against Women with Disabilities Grant Program. The goal of the program is to create accessible, safe, and effective services for individuals with disabilities and Deaf individuals who are victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking and accountability for those committing such crimes. Community Services for Every1, Inc. will collaborate with the Family Justice Center of Erie County to: train and engage local nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies to better support domestic violence survivors with intellectual/developmental disabilities; connect people with intellectual/developmental disabilities to suitable preventive education and victim support opportunities; and offer education, outreach, and advocacy services to strengthen coordination among domestic violence stakeholder organizations.
“Violence against women can take on many forms, on many different levels, from a college student being victimized on campus, to a vulnerable woman being victimized in a relationship,” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “Whether domestic or dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, it’s all wrong and it’s all criminal. These grants will go a long way to help: educate women about these criminal behaviors; train those who respond when a crime occurs; and hold those responsible for these crimes accountable.”
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Methuen Man Indicted in Fentanyl and Acetyl Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Methuen man was charged in a superseding indictment yesterday in connection with selling a fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl mixture to an undercover agent on six occasions.
Andi Guerrero-Lara, a/k/a “Manny Sierra,” 22, was charged in a superseding indictment with conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 100 grams or more of acetyl fentanyl as well as distribution and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 10 grams or more of acetyl fentanyl.
Guerrero-Lara was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with co-defendant Angel Rivera-Valle, a/k/a “Jose Antonio Serrano,” in October 2019. Both defendants have been in custody since.
Guerrero-Lara and Rivera-Valle were subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury on Dec. 18, 2019. Rivera-Valle pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and three counts of distribution of fentanyl. Rivera-Valle is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns on Sept. 8, 2020.
The defendants were members of a drug trafficking organization operating in the Merrimack Valley area of Massachusetts that regularly sold large quantities of fentanyl. Between September and October 2019, an undercover agent purchased a fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl mixture from the defendants on six separate dates.
The charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 100 grams or more of acetyl fentanyl carries a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 10 grams or more of acetyl fentanyl carries a minimum mandatory sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division made the announcement. Assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Andover Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alathea E. Porter of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to 12+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A methamphetamine trafficker caught with a large amount of “ice” methamphetamine was sentenced to serve twelve and a half years in prison today for his crime, said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia.
DeMarcus Bell, 42, of Cordele, Georgia was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell to 150 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. There is no parole in the federal system.
On October 7, 2018, an officer with the Byron, Georgia Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Bell. The defendant consented to a search of the vehicle and officers found what was later confirmed to be 993 grams of d-methamphetamine hydrochloride with a purity of 89%, 1,017.1 grams of d-methamphetamine hydrochloride with a purity of 82% and 58.27 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride. The methamphetamine was found hidden in boxes containing small bags of chips that were in the backseat and trunk of the vehicle. In the passenger glove box, officers also found a 9mm semiautomatic pistol.
“Methamphetamine trafficking destroys lives, cripples families and gravely harms communities. We will prosecute illegal drug traffickers, and they will face federal prison without parole,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “I want to thank our local and federal law enforcement partners for their work in this case and for taking these dangerous drugs off the streets.”
The case was investigated by the Byron Police Department, Peach County Sheriff’s Office, Perry Police Department, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Howard prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Media Advisory In-Person Press ConferenceRead the Press Release
WHEN: Thursday, September 3, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Rocky Mount Train Station
101 Coastline Street
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
Re: Prosecutions of Violent Criminals & Drug Traffickers in Eastern North Carolina
The United States Attorney’s Office announces a press conference to update the region on significant prosecutions of violent criminals and major drug traffickers operating in Nash, Edgecombe, and Wilson Counties. Participants will also discuss ongoing efforts of our Take Back North Carolina initiative focusing on these counties.
In addition to United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr., we anticipate members of the Nash, Edgecombe and Wilson County Sheriff’s Offices and the Wilson and Rocky Mount Police Departments along with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and Drug Enforcement Administration to participate in this event.
Credentialed members of the media are invited to attend. For additional information, and to RSVP your intentions to attend this event, please email Don Connelly at [email protected].
Man Charged for Assault on Metropolitan Police Officer Who Was in Proximity to Confrontation of Senator Rand PaulRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Brennen Sermon, 27, of Orlando, Florida, was charged by information on Friday, August 28, 2020, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael R. Sherwin. Sermon was in the vicinity of U.S. Senator Rand Paul when he was arrested by the Metropolitan Police Department for assault on a Metropolitan Police Department Officer.
Sermon was charged by information in D.C. Superior Court with one count of assault on a law enforcement officer in violation of D.C. Code § 22-405(b). He was arraigned on that charge and was released on his personal recognizance.
A Gerstein affidavit, based on an initial report from a responding officer, was filed along with the information. It states that at about 12:30 am on August 28, 2020, a Metropolitan Police Department officer was holding a police line at 14th and F Street NW when the defendant kicked his bicycle and fled. The officer pursued, and the defendant punched the officer in the left side of his face. The affidavit further reports that the officer sustained a laceration and severe swelling above his left eye, was transported to the hospital, and received stitches. A supplemental Gerstein affidavit filed after the initial report was prepared which clarified that a preliminary review of body worn camera showed that the individual kicking the bicycle and the individual throwing the punch appear to be wearing different color shirts. Therefore, the defendant is presently charged only with respect to the punching allegation.
Both the information and the Gerstein affidavits are formal accusations of criminal conduct, not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. If convicted, Sermon faces a maximum sentence of 180 days in prison for each count, a fine of up to $1,000.
In announcing the charge, Acting U.S. Attorney Sherwin, commended the work of the Metropolitan Police Department in responding to these events.
Maine Man Sentenced to 60 Months for Fentanyl and Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Edson Wilson, 43, of Augusta, Maine was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possession of heroin and fentanyl with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 15, 2019, a New Hampshire State Police trooper pulled over a vehicle on I-95 north for a traffic violation. Wilson was a passenger in the vehicle. While speaking with the occupants of the vehicle, the trooper noticed indicators of drug use. After the occupants also gave conflicting stories about their destination and travel, they consented to a search of the vehicle. The trooper located a vacuum- sealed package that contained approximately 198 grams of heroin and fentanyl under Wilson’s seat. Wilson was placed under arrest and later admitted that he had purchased the drugs earlier that day and further stated that he intended to sell at least half of the drugs.
Wilson previously pleaded guilty on May 6, 2020.
“Interstate 95 is a conduit for illegal drugs being transported into Northern New England,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Thanks to alert enforcement action by New Hampshire State Police, this shipment was stopped before it could be distributed and the responsible party was brought to justice. This 60 month prison term should serve as a warning to traffickers who plan to transport heroin and fentanyl into New Hampshire and Maine.”
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police with assistance from the Greenland Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau.
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Local Man Pleads Guilty to Armed CarjackingRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Courtney Freeman, 31, has pleaded guilty in federal court to armed carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. D. Michael Dunavant, U.S. Attorney announced the guilty plea today.
According to information presented in Court, on September 25, 2018, J.P. was fueling his 2011 GMC Acadia at the Jubilee Express gas station on North Watkins Drive.A young male that J.P. did not know, later identified as the defendant Courtney Freeman, approached J.P.’s vehicle and tapped on the glass. J.P. rolled the window down. Freeman then pointed a handgun at him and said, "get out the car or I’ll blow you away." J.P. immediately exited the car. Freeman entered the vehicle and drove away. Police later recovered security camera footage from the store, which confirmed the victim’s description.
J.P. ran to his home a few blocks away, called law enforcement, and reported his car stolen. Police responded and he informed them that his cell phone, wallet with credit cards, social security card, $260 in cash and a Ruger .380 pistol were all in the car at the time. Officers put out a stolen vehicle report.
The next day, September 26, 2018, Memphis Police found the stolen car on St. Charles Street. The vehicle was then towed and processed by a crime scene officer. Investigators found 7 pieces of paper with ridge detail, which were then forwarded to latent print examiners, who determined some of the prints belonged to Courtney Freeman.
The victim then identified Courtney Freeman to law enforcement as the person who carjacked him.
Agents with the National Insurance Crime Bureau examined the VIN of the 2011 GMC Acadia and concluded the vehicle was manufactured outside the state of Tennessee.
The defendant pled guilty on September 1, 2020, before U.S. District Court Judge Mark S. Norris. A sentencing hearing is scheduled on December 9, 2020, where Freeman faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years imprisonment and a maximum of life imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Forcibly taking an automobile by brandishing a firearm violently victimizes vulnerable citizens, and is only millimeters away from a homicide. This is another instance where brazen behavior yields brutal consequences for both victims and offenders. As long as this indiscriminate and senseless violence rules the streets, we will use federal prison to punish and control these community predators, one by one."
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Assistant U.S. Attorney J. William Crow is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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Lexington Man Sentenced to 80 Months for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Lexington, Ky., man, Andrew Maurice King, 29, was sentenced in federal court on Monday, to 80 months in prison, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves, for trafficking 10 grams or more of valerylfentanyl and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
According to his plea agreement, King admitted that on May 30, 2019, Lexington Police Department officers found significant quantities of marijuana, oxycodone, fentanyl, and valerylfentanyl; approximately $2,900 in cash; scales and packaging; and a Romarm SKS rifle, in his residence. King admitted that he possessed the valerylfentanyl with the intent to distribute and that he was a convicted felon, prohibiting him from possessing the firearm.
King pleaded guilty in May 2020.
Under federal law, King must serve 85 percent of his 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 Todd Scott, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Lexington Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Kiebler.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force’s (OCDETF) Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS), a Department of Justice initiative designed to target trafficking of dangerous synthetic opioids.
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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Las Vegas Man Indicted for Falsifying Auto Collision Centers’ Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Las Vegas, Nevada, returned a superseding indictment today charging a Las Vegas man with conspiracy to defraud the IRS, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, and Special Agent in Charge Tara Sullivan for the IRS-Criminal Investigation.
According to the superseding indictment, Lance K. Bradford conspired with others to prepare tax returns on behalf of several automotive collision centers falsely claiming that the centers and their owners incurred millions in deductible expenses. From 2013 through 2015, these false returns allegedly claimed more than $11 million in false deductions, resulting in significant underreporting of business income and taxes due to the IRS.
Bradford was previously charged with aiding and assisting in the filing of false individual, corporate, and partnership returns on behalf of other individuals and businesses.
If convicted, Bradford faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison for the conspiracy charge and three years in prison for each of the 29 counts of aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return. Bradford also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Trutanich commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Patrick Burns of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Myhre, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Las Vegas Man Indicted for Falsifying Auto Collision Centers’ Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. - A federal grand jury in Las Vegas, Nevada, returned a superseding indictment today charging a Las Vegas man with conspiracy to defraud the IRS, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, and Special Agent in Charge Tara Sullivan for the IRS-Criminal Investigation.
According to the superseding indictment, Lance K. Bradford conspired with others to prepare tax returns on behalf of several automotive collision centers falsely claiming that the centers and their owners incurred millions in deductible expenses. From 2013 through 2015, these false returns allegedly claimed more than $11 million in false deductions, resulting in significant underreporting of business income and taxes due to the IRS.
Bradford was previously charged with aiding and assisting in the filing of false individual, corporate, and partnership returns on behalf of other individuals and businesses.
If convicted, Bradford faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison for the conspiracy charge and three years in prison for each of the 29 counts of aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return. Bradford also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Trutanich commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorney Patrick Burns of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Myhre, who are prosecuting the case.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
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Las Cruces man charged with using internet in attempt to entice minor into sexRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Robert Jasso, 23, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, appeared in federal court on Aug. 25 for a detention hearing on charges of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor child, attempted production of child pornography and attempted solicitation of child pornography. Jasso will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled at this time.
According to a federal criminal complaint, on July 18 Jasso allegedly used the social networking application Skout to contact what he thought was a 13-year-old girl. The complaint alleges, Jasso then attempted to entice the person he thought was a minor to travel to him to engage in sexual activity. Jasso later allegedly asked the person he thought was a minor to recruit another minor to engage in sexual activity with the two of them. Jasso allegedly requested that the person he thought was a minor send him sexually explicit photographs that would constitute child pornography.
After additional conversations, according to the complaint, on Aug. 14 Jasso travelled to a location near Sonoma Elementary School in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, where he expected to meet two 13-year-old girls to engage in sexual activity and was arrested.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Jasso faces 5 to 20 years in prison for attempted solicitation of child pornography, 15 to 30 years for attempted production of child pornography and 10 years to life for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor child.
The FBI investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting the case.
KC Man, Present at Fatal Shooting, Charged with Illegal FirearmRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Missouri, man was charged in federal court today with illegally possessing a firearm during a shooting incident in which two women were wounded by gunfire, one of whom died as a result.
Darius D. Shaw, 30, was charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime in a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo.
Today’s federal criminal complaint alleges that Shaw was in possession of a Glock 9mm semi-automatic pistol on Aug. 23, 2020, in furtherance of the crime of distributing marijuana.
According to an affidavit filed in support of today’s federal criminal complaint, Shaw was present during a shooting after a marijuana deal in which two women were shot, one fatally.
Kansas City police officers were dispatched to Research Medical Center at approximately 3:35 a.m. on Aug. 23, 2020, in regard to two shooting victims who arrived at the hospital for medical treatment. One of the shooting victims suffered a gunshot wound to her neck and died while officers were at the hospital. The second shooting victim, her sister, suffered a gunshot wound to her shoulder.
Investigators learned the two women were part of a group who had purchased marijuana from Shaw at his residence, the affidavit says. A verbal disturbance ensued between the group purchasing marijuana and a woman at Shaw’s residence. As the victim’s vehicle was leaving, the woman started shooting at the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle went to the hospital when she realized the two women had been shot.
Shaw told investigators he had sold $10 worth of marijuana to a member of the group with whom the gunshot victims were traveling. He also told investigators that he regularly buys marijuana, the affidavit says, some of which he smokes and some of which he sells.The charge contained in this complaint is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashleigh Ragner and Special U.S. Attorney Sarah Rasalam. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Operation LeGend
Operation LeGend is a federal partnership with local law enforcement to address the increase in homicides and violent crime in Kansas City, Mo., in 2020. The operation honors the memory of four-year-old LeGend Taliferro, one of the youngest fatalities during a record-breaking year of homicides and shootings. Additional federal agents were assigned to the operation from the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Marshals Service.KC Man Pleads Guilty to Child Porn Charge That Could Send Him to Prison for 12 YearsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Missouri man with a prior child sexual exploitation conviction pleaded guilty today to possession of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
William Lockwood, 41, who lived in Kansas City, Kan., at the time of the crime and now lives in Pleasant Valley, Mo., pleaded guilty to one count of possessing child pornography. The investigation began when Dropbox sent a tip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. In his plea, Lockwood admitted he uploaded child pornography to the Dropbox account and provided access to other users.
Investigators seized 26 videos of child sexual abuse from Lockwood’s account. In 2012, Lockwood was convicted in Collier County, Fla., on a charge of obscene communication for the purpose of luring a child for sex.
Sentencing is set for Dec. 3. Both parties are recommending a sentence of 144 months in federal prison. McAllister commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Flannigan for their work on the case.
Illegal Possession of Firearms Lands Two Men in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that two convicted felons have been sentenced in United States District Court for illegal possession of firearms. United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced both men today.
West Monroe Man Sentenced on Drug and Gun Charges
Jerry Dakota Johnston, 25, of West Monroe, Louisiana, was sentenced to 115 months (9 years, 7 months) in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On September 2, 2019, Union Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies observed Johnston illegally dumping trash at a parish dumpsite on Highway 15 in Downsville, Louisiana. While speaking with Johnston, deputies observed in plain view a 9mm handgun, loaded with a 30-round extended magazine, stuffed between the driver’s seat and center console of the vehicle Johnston had been driving. Johnston claimed that it was only a “BB gun,” but then, unprovoked, Johnston fled on foot down the highway. After a brief chase, deputies apprehended Johnston and placed him into custody. During a search of the vehicle, deputies found approximately 12 grams of methamphetamine packaged for distribution. Before his arrest on September 2, 2019, Johnson, a convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior convictions for drug dealing and domestic violence. At the time of arrest, Johnston knew his status as a convicted felon.
The ATF and the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael T. Shannon prosecuted the case.
Monroe Man Sentenced on Federal Firearms Crimes
Cedric Dewayne Coleman, 36, of Monroe, Louisiana, was sentenced to 54 months (4 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Coleman previously pleaded guilty to the charge on June 3, 2020.
In November 2019, detectives with the Monroe Police Department conducted a follow-up investigation of a domestic dispute. Detectives went to an apartment in Monroe, Louisiana and found Coleman lying in bed. After a search of the bedroom, officers found a pistol at the head of the bed Coleman was sleeping in and he admitted that the gun was his. Coleman has previous convictions for distribution of marijuana (2005); possession of cocaine (2006); and domestic abuse battery (2015). Under federal law, it is it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
The ATF and the Monroe Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Cassidy prosecuted the case.
Each case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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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.
Hyde Park Man Indicted for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Hyde Park man was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury in Boston for the December 2019 armed robbery of a bank in Hyde Park.
Paul Whooten, 56, was indicted on one count of armed bank robbery. He was previously charged by criminal complaint on Feb. 27, 2020 and has since been detained in federal custody.
According to the charging documents, on Dec. 21, 2019, Whooten entered a branch of the Rockland Trust bank on Truman Parkway in Hyde Park wearing black clothing and a mask, brandished what appeared to be a firearm, pointed it at the teller, and said, “Give me all of your money.” The teller filled a bag with cash, and the robber fled on foot. Bank surveillance cameras captured images of the robber wearing a long dark coat, a black reflective jacket, a black knit hat, black sunglasses and gloves. A police officer stationed inside the bank broadcast a description of the robber.
As alleged in the complaint, another police officer saw an individual matching the description of the robber walking down Truman Parkway. The officer issued verbal commands to the robber to drop the weapon and get on the ground. Whooten complied and was apprehended by law enforcement. A black rifle-type BB gun and bag of cash were recovered.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of up to 25 years in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner William Gross made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam W. Deitch of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Home Health Company Agrees to Pay $300,000 to Resolve Allegations of Illegal Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces today that Home Health Care of Florida, LLC has agreed to pay $300,000 to resolve allegations that it engaged in a kickback scheme related to the referral of Medicare patients for home health services.
The settlement announced today resolves allegations that between August 1, 2013, and March 31, 2017, Home Health Care of Florida illegally paid its medical director in order to induce him to refer Medicare patients to Home Health Care of Florida for services that were billed to the United States. The medical director entered into a related settlement agreement in December of 2018. The United States alleged that these financial arrangements violated the physician self-referral law, commonly known as the “Stark Law,” and the Anti-Kickback Statute, giving rise to liability under the False Claims Act.
“Kickback arrangements have no place in federal healthcare programs,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez. “The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to target improper payment schemes and advocate for the proper care of our senior citizens.”
The case was handled by the Justice Department’s Civil Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida. Investigative assistance was provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General. Trial Attorney Breanna Peterson and Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy Bloor coordinated the investigation.
The government’s action in this matter illustrates the emphasis on combating health care fraud, and one of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The claims settled by this agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
High School Coach in Topeka Charged with Sexual Exploitation of MinorsRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, Kan. – A basketball coach at Seaman High School was charged today with sexually exploiting minors, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Jeffrey D. Pierce, 40, Topeka, Kan., is charged with two counts of producing child pornography (counts 1 and 2) and one count of possessing child pornography (count 3). The production crimes are alleged to have occurred March 10 and March 14, 2020. The possession crime is alleged to have occurred Sept. 2, 2020.
If convicted, Pierce could face a penalty of not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in federal prison on each production count, and up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on the possession count. The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hunting is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Hattiesburg Felon Pleads Guilty under Project EJECT to Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Michael Bounds, 30, of Hattiesburg, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Keith Starrett to being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On August 24, 2019, Bounds was found in possession of two firearms, including a 12-gauge shotgun, during a traffic stop in Forrest County. Bounds was previously convicted of multiple felonies.
Bounds was originally indicted for this offense on January 29, 2020. He will be sentenced on December 8, 2020 at 9:45 a.m.
The Hattiesburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew W. Eichner.
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.
Gun Thief Sentenced for 'Smash-And-Grab' of More Than A Dozen AR-15 Style Rifles from Local Gun StoreRead the Press Release
DENVER – United States Attorney Jason R. Dunn today announced that Justin Vigil, age 31, of Denver, Colorado, was sentenced to serve 39 months (more than 3 years) in federal prison followed by 3 years on supervised release for the theft of firearms from Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply, a federally licensed firearm dealer. The Denver Field Division of the ATF joined in this announcement.
According to the stipulated facts contained in Vigil’s plea agreement, he and co-defendant Jonathan Estrada were part of a violent “smash and grab” organization that burglarized federal firearms licensees (FFLs).
On January 18, 2018, Vigil and five others, including Estrada, burglarized Murdoch’s gun store in Littleton. They entered the store after throwing a rock through a glass window. They spent 3 minutes in the store, stealing 13 AR-15 style firearms. That evening, the ATF executed a search warrant at Estrada’s residence. Agents found evidence, including five firearms that were stolen during the burglary, Murdoch's sales tags, and a handwritten ledger listing Murdoch's and other locations to be burglarized.
After Vigil was charged but before pleading guilty in this case, he cut off his GPS ankle monitoring bracelet and absconded. He was at large for several months and missed his initial change of plea hearing.
Co-defendant Jonathan Estrada, age 21, of Denver, was sentenced on February 27, 2020 to serve 96 months (8 years) in federal prison followed by 3 years on supervised release for carjacking and his role in this and another gun store burglary.
“Prosecuting gun crimes is a top priority for my office and the Department of Justice,” said U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn. “The theft of 13 AR-15 style rifles causes a substantial community safety concern because they likely end up in the hands of violent criminals, gangs, and drug trafficking organizations. As these criminals target gun stores, federal law enforcement and my office will target them with laser focus.”
“FFL burglaries and robberies are one of the top priorities of ATF,” said David Booth, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Denver Field Division. “We will continue to use every resource available to ensure those responsible are brought to justice and ensure public safety.”
According to ATF statistics specific to Colorado, in 2019 there were 135 firearms stolen in 9 separate burglaries. In 2018, there were 64 firearms stolen in 8 separate burglaries. And in 2017, there were 427 firearms stolen in 28 separate burglaries. Nationally in 2019 there were 21,535 firearms stolen in 2,576 separate burglaries.
The sentence was pronounced by U.S. District Court Judge Robert E. Blackburn. This case was investigated by the ATF with assistance from the following law enforcement agencies: Arvada Police Department, Aurora Police Department, Denver Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Crime Lab, and Lakewood Police Department. The defendant is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Treaster.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado. Related court documents can be found on PACER by searching for Case Number 18-cr-421.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Gulf Coast Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Illegal Interstate Seafood ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. - Khiem Dinh Vh, 56, of D’Iberville, Mississippi, an unlicensed wholesale seafood dealer who operated a business known as “Gulf Coast Seafood” in Jackson County, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act, which makes it unlawful to sell in interstate commerce any fish taken in violation of state law, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Deputy Special Agent in Charge Manny Antonaras of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and Acting Chief Kyle Wilkerson of the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, Office of Marine Patrol.
Vu made his initial appearance and waived indictment earlier today before the Honorable Robert P. Myers, Jr., United States Magistrate Judge, at the federal courthouse in Gulfport.
Pursuant to the Criminal Information, Vu pled guilty to conspiring to violate the Lacey Act by selling fish to seafood markets in the Atlanta, Georgia metropolitan area. Vu bought the seafood from commercial fishermen and other seafood dealers in Biloxi and Pass Christian, and then transported the seafood to the Atlanta area for resale without having a wholesale seafood dealer license, as required by Mississippi law. As administered by the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, Mississippi regulates the seafood industry to preserve fish stocks and protect the local fishing market.
For the conspiracy charges, Vu faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on December 3, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
United States Attorney Hurst praised the efforts of the federal and state investigative agencies for their diligent work in the investigation of this matter. The case was investigated by NOAA Office of Law Enforcement and Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gaines Cleveland.
Grand Rapids Men Sentenced for Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN - U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge announced today that Christopher Desonier and Angel Leon were sentenced for committing armed robberies. Desonier was sentenced to 117 months imprisonment and Leon was sentenced to 161 months, by U.S. District Court Judge Gordon J. Quist. Both men were ordered to pay restitution and will serve 3 years of supervised release after they are discharged from prison.
Desonier and Leon were responsible for a string of crimes dating back to January 2019, when they broke into a home and stole a vehicle and a wallet. They went to the Cabela’s Sporting Goods Store in Grandville and used the ID and credit card of the victim to buy ammunition and accessories for pistols and attempted to buy an assault-type rifle, but were prevented due to the 3-day waiting period. In March 2019, they robbed Pancho’s Party Store in Grand Rapids. Leon entered the store and robbed the clerk, stealing cash and cigarettes, while brandishing a shortbarreled shotgun. Desonier waited outside and acted as the getaway driver. A week later, Desonier and Leon robbed the 911 Cash Store located in Wyoming, Michigan. This time, both men entered the store with Leon brandishing the short-barreled shotgun and Desonier had a revolver. They tied up the store clerks, stole cash, and took the recording device from the store security system.
At sentencing, Judge Quist, expressed concern at the grave nature of the crimes and denied requests for leniency in imposing lengthy terms of custody for both men. Both Desonier and Leon had prior convictions that prohibited them from possessing firearms.
In announcing the sentences, U.S. Attorney Birge stated, “Armed robbery is violent and dangerous. The risk of death, serious injury, and psychological harm are ever-present. My office has always and will continue to pursue those who violate federal prohibitions on possessing a firearm or who use a firearm in committing other federal crimes.”
“Angel Leon and Chris Desonier used firearms and violence to further their criminal endeavors,” stated James Deir, ATF’s Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Division. “It is my hope that the lengthy sentences they received sends a message that we as law enforcement, and we as a community, will not stand by and let violence be the norm. We will continue to work to hold those who use violence accountable.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Mekaru and investigated by the Grand Rapids Police, Wyoming Police, Allegan County Sheriff’s Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
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Grand Jury Indicts St. Louis Trio Linked to Overseas Romance SchemeRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS - A federal grand jury indicted 41-year-old Ovuoke Frank Ofikoro, 27-year-old Bonmene Sibe, and 27-year-old Trenice Hassel on charges connected to a romance scam targeting dozens of older women residing throughout the United States. Ofikoro and Sibe face several charges including conspiracy to defraud, mail fraud, and aggravated identity theft while Sibe and Hassel face the additional charge of making false statements to a federal agency.
According to court documents, between sometime around May 2019 until July 31, 2020, Ofikoro, Sibe, and other individuals perpetrated a romance scheme in which the fraudsters pretended to be high-ranking military officers who were deployed overseas. The perpetrators pretended to be romantically interested in the women whose ages ranged between the ages of 45 and 82.
Investigators believe Ofikoro and Sibe worked with others in enticing the women to send United States currency and electronic equipment to St. Louis area post office boxes from various states that included Hawaii, Illinois, Utah, Mississippi, Maryland, and Florida. The value of the currency and equipment mailed through the United States Postal Service had an aggregate value of more than $500,000 with some of the shipments containing as much as $50,000 in currency. Ofikoro and Sibe transferred some of the funds received to accounts of financial institutions located in the Country of Nigeria.
Co-Defendant Hassel assisted the conspirators in using the name of B.M. to fraudulently open one of the St. Louis post office boxes Ofikoro, Sibe, and the others use in the scheme.
If convicted, the violations of conspiracy to defraud and mail fraud carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, and the violation of making false statements carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. For the violation of aggravated identity theft, Ofikoro and Sibe face a mandatory two year sentence of imprisonment that will be run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment imposed. Restitution is also mandatory.
Charges set forth in the indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilty. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The United States Postal Inspection Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigations are investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tracy Berry and Edward Dowd III are handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The Department of Justice Elder Justice Initiative is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting financial crimes targeting older adults. The Eastern District of Missouri Identity Theft Task Force is a group of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies working together to combat identity theft and its related crimes across the St. Louis Community.
Inspector in Charge William Hedrick, of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, said, “The indictments and arrests in this case not only highlight the investigative efforts of the Postal Inspection Service and its law enforcement partners, but also instills public confidence that those who exploit the elderly through the U.S. Mail will be brought to justice.”
"Romance scams prey on people's vulnerabilities and cost victims almost half a billion dollars a year," said Special Agent in Charge Richard Quinn of the FBI St. Louis Division. "If you meet someone online and the person asks you for money, question whether this could be a romance scam. There's nothing romantic about being swindled out of your life's savings."
“Taking advantage of vulnerable individuals is always awful. In particular, these romance scams often succeed against elderly victims who have lost partners or have been isolated due to the pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Jeff Jensen. “Making matters worse, elderly victims are frequently unwilling to discuss financial matters with children and are too embarrassed to report their losses to law enforcement. We need to be vigilant and watch for red flags such as: increased use of internet messaging services; frequent trips to banks and post offices; abnormal requests for money; and increased secrecy.”
Geneva Man Charged with Enticement of A MinorRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Timothy Carter, 45, of Geneva, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with enticement of a minor. The charge carries a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on May 12, 2020, an undercover law enforcement officer with the Geneva Police Department was on social media utilizing an undercover online account when he received a picture of a naked male from a user named “Timothy Carter.” For approximately an hour after receiving the picture, the undercover officer and the defendant exchanged messages that were sexually explicit at times. During the exchange, the undercover officer stated that he was a 14 year-old boy. Carter then asked the undercover officer to meet in person. A short time later, the defendant arrived at a predetermined location and was taken into custody.
On May 19, 2020, the Geneva Police Department executed a search warrant on Carter’s cellular phone and determined it was used to send the messages to the undercover officer.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Geneva Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael J. Passalacqua; the Canandaigua Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mathew Neilsen, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Fraudster Pleads Guilty in $2 Million Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
A Honduran man who conned investors out of roughly $2 million has pleaded guilty to mail fraud, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.
Jose Anibal Linares, 42, was charged in October with one count of mail fraud and two counts of wire fraud. He pleaded guilty to the mail fraud charge via videoteleconference before Magistrate Judge Renee Harris Toliver on Tuesday.
According to plea papers, Mr. Linares admitted to running a Ponzi-type scheme, luring investors into handing over “principal” that he later deposited in bank accounts at Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Legacy Texas, then paying them “interest” from other investors’ principal payments.
Mr. Linares, who operated JC Loans Finance and Inversiones JC Dallas, admitted he falsely told investors their funds were “insured by the FDIC” and promised monthly returns based on investments in commercial and residential real estate, including a water resort and shopping centers in Honduras. He then mailed investors letters thanking them for joining the JC “family.”
Instead of investing their money, however, Mr. Linares admits he spent substantial amounts of investor funds on personal expenditures, and even wired some of the money to family members in Honduras.
In the meantime, he made lulling payments to investors by withdrawing large sums from his Bank of America and Wells Fargo accounts, generally using funds that had been deposited immediately beforehand from other investors. On some occasions, he even took investors’ cash payments from one set of investors in his office, then turned the cash over to other investors waiting in his lobby for their monthly disbursements.
By summer 2017, Mr. Linares admits, he had ceased all monthly payments and did not return investors’ principal investments.
Mr. Linares now faces up to 20 years in federal prison. His sentencing date is set for January 11, 2021. A Honduran citizen in the U.S. on Temporary Protected Status, Mr. Linares may be subject to removal from the U.S. after serving his sentence.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Miller is prosecuting the case.
Fort Myers Business Owner Arrested and Charged with COVID Relief FraudRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the arrest and unsealing of a criminal complaint charging Casey David Crowther (35, Fort Myers) with making a false statement to a lending institution. If convicted, Crowther faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison.
According to the
complaint , Crowther sought and received more than $2 million in a Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loan through an application to an insured financial institution on behalf of his company, Target Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. Crowther submitted a loan application that included false and misleading statements concerning what the PPP funds would be used for, specifically that the PPP funds would only be used for business-related purposes, to retain workers, and maintain payroll or make mortgage payments, lease payments, and utilities payments.The complaint further alleges that within days of receiving the PPP funds, Crowther used a portion of the funds to purchase a 2020 40-foot catamaran boat for approximately $689,417, which he registered in his name.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020. It is designed to provide emergency financial assistance to millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act is the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the PPP. In April 2020, Congress authorized over $300 billion in additional PPP funding.
The PPP allows qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive loans with a maturity of two years and an interest rate of one percent. Businesses must use PPP loan proceeds for payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities. The PPP allows the interest and principal to be forgiven if the business spends the proceeds on these expenses within a set time period and use at least a certain percentage of the loan toward payroll expenses.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case is being investigated by the United States Secret Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Trent Reichling.
Former felon convicted of failing to report as sex offender in TexasRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE – A 60-year-old resident of Brownsville has entered a guilty plea to one count of failure to register as a sex offender as required under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Albert Frank Garza is a twice-convicted sex offender. He was convicted of first degree sexual abuse with a child under the age of 12 in 1980 and again just three years later for indecent liberties with a child under the age of 14. He received respective sentences of 48 months and 10 years in prison.
As a sex offender, he is required under SORNA to register as a sex offender every year. If he relocates, he is required to register in the new jurisdiction within three days after arrival.
Previously residing in Colorado, he had registered as a sex offender until May 30, 2014. At that time, he signed and dated an annual form acknowledging a follow-up date of June 1, 2015. However, he failed to register in 2015 as required.
In fact, he never registered as a sex offender again, and his whereabouts were unknown until 2019.
On Sep. 24, 2019, local authorities arrested Garza for failure to identify and possession of a controlled substance. At the time of his arrest, Garza used the fictitious name of Martin Infante Garcia and indicated he was homeless. A street outreach advocate at a local homeless shelter recognized his photo and identified him as someone who visited the shelter daily for breakfast from April 2019 through June 2019.
Although Garza resided in Texas from at least April 2019 until the date of his arrest in September, he failed to register within the required three days of his arrival.
U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera accepted the plea and set sentencing for Nov. 25. At that time, Garza faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nikki Piquette is prosecuting the case.
Former United Nations Employee Charged with Making False Statements to Cover up Sexual AssaultsRead the Press Release
Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today that KARIM ELKORANY, a former communications specialist with the United Nations (“UN”) in Iraq, was charged in an Indictment in Manhattan federal court with two counts of making false statements to special agents of the FBI in an effort to conceal his drugging and sexual assault of multiple women while he worked for the UN. ELKORANY was arrested in New Jersey today and is expected to be presented before Magistrate Judge James L. Cott this afternoon. The case is assigned to District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald.
Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said: “Karim Elkorany, a former United Nations communications specialist, was accused of furtively drugging and sexually assaulting several women. When questioned by the FBI, Elkorany compounded his alleged unconscionable conduct by making false statements to the special agents investigating the assaults. Thanks to the diligence of the FBI, Elkorany now faces serious time in an American federal prison. We urge any individuals who may have information concerning Elkorany or any similar conduct to please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL- FBI or tips.fbi.gov.”
FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “Investigated by UN officials for allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting a woman in Iraq in 2016, Elkorany caught the eye of the FBI. Elkorany’s conduct, as detailed in today’s charges, is abhorrent, and the false statements made to the FBI Special Agents conducting this investigation are federal offenses. Our investigation continues, and if anyone has information about Elkorany, please contact us at 1-800-CALL- FBI or via our tipline at tips.fbi.gov.”
According to the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court and publicly available information:[1]
Since at least in or about 2005 up to at least in or about April 2018, ELKORANY worked in international aid, development, and/or foreign relations. From in or about October 2013 up to in or about April 2016, ELKORANY worked for the UN Children’s Fund in Iraq. From in or about July 2016 up to in or about April 2018, ELKORANY worked as a Communications Specialist for the UN in Iraq.
In or about November 2016, ELKORANY drugged and sexually assaulted a woman (“Victim-1”) in Iraq, where he was stationed while working for the UN. Victim-1 had food and alcoholic beverages with ELKORANY at a restaurant, after which ELKORANY brought Victim-1 to his apartment. While at ELKORANY’s apartment, Victim-1 was rendered unconscious. Victim-1 regained consciousness for brief periods, during which she observed ELKORANY sexually assaulting her but was physically unable to stop him. ELKORANY, among other things, put his penis in Victim-1’s mouth and anally penetrated Victim-1.
In or around December 2016, Victim-1 reported the sexual assault to the UN. The UN initiated an investigation, through which ELKORANY was notified of the substance of Victim-1’s allegations against him.
Federal agents subsequently uncovered evidence that ELKORANY had engaged in a pattern of similar conduct involving other women. In each instance, ELKORANY drugged the victim before sexually assaulting or attempting to sexually assault the victim while the victim was unconscious or partially conscious. In particular, between in or around 2009 and in or around 2016, ELKORANY sexually assaulted or attempted to sexually assault at least five victims after the victims were rendered unconscious after consuming alcoholic beverages prepared by ELKORANY. When some of the victims regained consciousness, some or all of their clothing had been removed. In some instances, after they awoke, ELKORANY informed the victims, in substance and in part, that they had sexual intercourse, oral sex, and/or anal sex with him. In some instances, when or after the victims regained consciousness, the victims experienced genital and anal discomfort and pain.
On or about November 3, 2017, special agents working with the New York Field Office of the FBI conducted a voluntary interview of ELKORANY outside of his residence in New Jersey. Agents conducting the interview identified themselves and informed ELKORANY that they were investigating, among other things, his interactions with Victim-1. During that interview, ELKORANY, who expressed familiarity with the nature and substance of the allegations made by Victim-1 to the UN, stated that the allegations Victim-1 had made to the UN were false. ELKORANY also stated that he had not used drugs with Victim-1 or provided Victim-1 with any drugs.
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ELKORANY, 37, of West Orange, New Jersey, is charged with two counts of making false statements to federal law enforcement agents, each of which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Acting U.S. Attorney Strauss praised the outstanding work of the FBI. Ms. Strauss also thanked the United States Department of State and the UN for their assistance, and noted that the investigation is ongoing. Any individuals who believe they have information concerning ELKORANY or any similar conduct should contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL- FBI or tips.fbi.gov.
The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel C. Richenthal, Amanda L. Houle, and Lara Pomerantz are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the Indictment and the descriptions of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.