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7 October 2020
Las Vegas Man Sentenced to Prison for Fraudulent Tax Return SchemeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A Las Vegas, Nevada, man was sentenced to 70 months in prison for conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman, U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Tara Sullivan.
On Aug. 22, 2018, a federal jury in Las Vegas found Terry Williamson guilty of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1349.
The evidence at trial proved that Williamson played a leading role in a mail and wire fraud conspiracy from January 2009 through April 2011. As part of the scheme, Williamson’s co-conspirators filed false tax returns with the IRS to fraudulently obtain tax refunds. They used the names and social security numbers of deceased taxpayers in order to facilitate the fraud.
To handle the fraudulently obtained refund checks, Williamson opened a bank account using the business name Refund and Rebates Management Inc. (Refund and Rebates). After Williamson or his compatriots deposited the refund checks into the Refund and Rebates bank account, Williamson transferred large amounts of cash to his personal account and to the accounts of his co-conspirators, and used the remaining funds in the account for his own personal enrichment, including a $60,000 fully loaded pick-up truck. More than 480 fraudulent tax refund checks totaling almost $2 million were deposited into Williamson’s account.
In addition to the term of imprisonment imposed, U.S. District Judge Miranda Du ordered Williamson to serve one year of supervised release.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Trutanich commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who investigated the case, and Trial Attorney Sarah Kiewlicz of the Tax Division and AUSA John Mulcahy (former Tax Division Trial Attorney), who prosecuted 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 Vegas Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison for Trading Child Pornography over Instant Messaging ApplicationRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. — A Las Vegas resident who admitted to receiving and distributing child pornography over Kik Messenger with other users was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge James C. Mahan to eight years in federal prison to be followed by lifetime supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.
Dustin Randall, 25, pleaded guilty in December 2019 to one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. In addition to the terms of imprisonment and supervised release, Randall will be required to register as a sex offender and comply with all requirements under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, as well as follow applicable registration requirements imposed by state law.
According to court documents, between June 10 and 12, 2017, Randall — using Kik user account “dustinwr31” — traded numerous child pornography files with another Kik user, “funnseeker24.” Funnseeker24 sent Randall five cloud storage links containing hundreds of images and videos of child pornography, and Randall sent Funnseeker24 two links containing over a hundred files of child pornography.
The charges resulted from an investigation by the FBI's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bianca Pucci and Christopher Burton prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
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Kingsport Man Sentenced to 20 Years on Firearm and Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – Following the conviction on October 2, 2020, Larry W. Hutchins, 37, of Kingsport, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison by the Honorable Clifton L. Corker, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Greeneville, for his participation in the distribution of methamphetamine and the possession of firearms.
On March 28, 2018, Kingsport Police Officers encountered the defendant at Model City Apartments. The defendant, an armed career criminal, was in possession of two loaded firearms. On June 10, 2018, Sullivan County Sheriff’s deputy responded to a call for service by a citizen. Upon arrival, the deputy found the defendant standing in the roadway near the house. The deputy was aware that the defendant had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. During a search of the defendant, the deputy located more than 10 grams of methamphetamine, which was packaged individually for resale.
“Prosecuting those who violate federal gun laws is one of our top priorities. Our office is committed to working side by side with the community and law enforcement partners to rid these neighborhoods of violent offenders and reduce crime in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge, Toby Taylor remarked, “ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence partnerships as part of Project Guardian focuses on the devastating impact of firearms violence and works with the entire community to provide a safe environment.”
Hutchins entered a plea of guilty to possession of a firearm by a felon, and to possession of over five grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Hutchins received 240 months in prison, followed by five years’ of supervised release. Hutchins’s related cases in Sullivan County were dismissed upon his sentencing.
The criminal indictment resulted from investigations of the Kingsport Police Department (KPD), Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Martin represented the United States in court.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a comprehensive national strategy that creates local partnerships with law enforcement agencies to enforce existing gun laws. It provides more options to prosecutors, allowing them to use local, state, and federal laws to ensure that criminals who commit gun crime face tough sentences. PSN gives each federal district the flexibility it needs to focus on individual challenges that a specific community faces.
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Justice Department Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in Fiscal Year 2020Read the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Jury Convicts Three Time Felon of Illegally Possessing A Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – A federal jury has found Valdez Williams (61, Altamonte Springs) guilty of one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Williams faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 28, 2020.
Williams had been indicted on November 20, 2019.
According to evidence presented at trial, during the execution of a search warrant at his apartment, law enforcement officers recovered a .380 caliber firearm and ammunition from a safe in Williams’s bedroom. The officers also found a plate of cocaine base and stolen property in the apartment. Williams admitted that he sold cocaine base and had purchased the stolen property, and he said that he had obtained the firearm for protection because his apartment had been burglarized about a month earlier.
Williams was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law both because he had prior felony convictions and because he was still on federal supervised released.
This case was investigated by the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel P. Jancha and Karen L. Gable.
This is another case prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Judge sentences St. Louis doctor for distribution of child pornographyRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS, MO – United States District Judge John A. Ross sentenced Dr. Ashu Joshi to 96 months in prison for distribution of child pornography. The 48-year-old St. Louis resident pleaded guilty in September.
Dr. Joshi was 46 years old when he began a relationship with a 16-year-old Kentucky girl who Dr. Joshi met through her mother, a former patient of the doctor’s in Kentucky. The doctor and victim had sex and took pornographic pictures, exchanging photos over Facebook messenger.
In October 2018, a St. Louis County Police Officer received four cyber-tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding Dr. Joshi. The tips were first directed to the Bowling Green, Kentucky Police Department, which then asked St. Louis County Police for help after investigators learned Dr. Joshi lived in St. Louis County. Investigators learned from the tips that between August and September 2018, a Facebook account linked to Doctor Joshi uploaded and sent several pictures containing child pornography. The investigators then gathered and developed evidence which led to the charges against Dr. Joshi.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, St. Louis County Police Department and the Regional Computer Crimes Education and Enforcement Group investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Colleen Lang and Investigator Donya Jackson handled the case for the United States Attorney’s Office.
Irondequoit Man Going to Prison for 30 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Logan Nedo, 34, of Irondequoit, NY, who was convicted of producing child pornography, was sentenced to serve 30 years in prison by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that on May 19, 2019, Nedo turned himself in to the Brighton Police Department after allegedly sexually abusing two minor children. After discovering that the abuse primarily took place in the Town of Irondequoit, the Brighton Police Department turned Nedo over to the Irondequoit Police Department. Irondequoit Police continued the investigation, which ultimately led to the arrest of the defendant on state charges involving the physical sexual abuse of the children.
During their investigation, Irondequoit investigators discovered that Nedo had produced and saved videos and images of the abuse. As a result, several electronic items were seized from the defendant’s home and person turned over to the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force for processing. In addition to videos and photographs depicting the sexual abuse of the minor victims, approximately 2,500 images of unrelated child pornography were also discovered.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Irondequoit Police Department, under the direction of chief Alan Laird; the Brighton Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Catholdi; and the Federal Bureau of Investigations Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia. Additional assistance was provided by the Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory and the Bivona Child Advocacy Center. Nedo is also facing a parallel New York State prosecution by the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office.
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ISIS Militants Charged with Deaths of Americans in SyriaRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Two militant fighters for the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a foreign terrorist organization, are expected to arrive here today in FBI custody on charges related to their participation in a brutal hostage-taking scheme that resulted in the deaths of four American citizens, as well as the deaths of British and Japanese nationals, in Syria.
Former British citizens Alexanda Amon Kotey, 36, and El Shafee Elsheikh, 32, are expected to make their initial appearances here in federal court this afternoon.
“These charges are the product of many years of hard work in pursuit of justice for our citizens slain by ISIS,” said William P. Barr, Attorney General of the United States. “Although we cannot bring them back, we can and will seek justice for them, their families, and for all Americans. Our message to other terrorists around the world is this — if you harm Americans, you will face American arms on the battlefield or American law in our courtrooms. Either way, you will be pursued to the ends of the earth until justice is done.”
According to allegations in the indictment, from 2012 to 2015, Kotey, Elsheikh, Mohamed Emwazi (deceased), and a fourth British citizen (CC-1) currently incarcerated in Turkey, were ISIS fighters and participated in the abduction of American and European hostages in Syria. The men also allegedly engaged in a prolonged pattern of physical and psychological violence against the hostages, including against American citizens James Wright Foley, Kayla Jean Mueller, Steven Joel Sotloff, and Peter Edward Kassig. Due to their English accents and their history together in the United Kingdom, the four men were often referred to by hostages as “The Beatles.”
“Kotey and Elsheikh are alleged to have committed horrific crimes in support of ISIS, including hostage taking resulting in the deaths of four American citizens,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Their alleged acts have shattered the lives of four American families. What each of these families have sought more than anything else is for these defendants to have their day in court. Well, that day has come. While we cannot return their loved ones or undo the pain that these families face each day, we can do everything possible to ensure that the defendants are held accountable for their alleged savage actions.”
From August 2014 through October 2014, ISIS released videos depicting Emwazi’s barbaric beheadings of Foley, Sotloff, and British citizens David Haines and Alan Henning. In November 2014, ISIS released a video depicting the decapitated head of Kassig. In January 2015, ISIS released videos with images of two dead Japanese citizens.
“Today, we remember the victims, Jim Foley, Steven Sotloff, Peter Kassig, and Kayla Mueller, and their families who are forever affected by these senseless acts of violence,” said Christopher Wray, FBI Director. “These families have suffered with the painful loss of their loved ones at the hands of brutal killers; today’s charges demonstrate the FBI’s dedication and commitment to giving them the justice they deserve. We, along with our partners in the U.S. Government, remain steadfast in our duty to bring to justice those who have harmed our citizens — no matter where they are, and no matter how long it takes. I’m grateful to the men and women of the FBI, the victims’ families, and our domestic and international partners, for their tireless efforts to bring us to where we stand today with the prosecution of these men on U.S. soil.”
According to allegations in the indictment, Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi worked closely with Abu Muhammed al-Adnani, a former leading commander of ISIS and chief media spokesperson. Until he was killed by the United States military in August 2016, Adnani reported directly to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the former self-proclaimed leader of ISIS. Baghdadi was killed during a United States military operation in Syria in October 2019.
“The indictments of Alexanda Kotey and Elshafee Elsheikh are the result of more than eight years of tireless work by the FBI Washington Field Office and personnel across the U.S. Government and the international law enforcement community,” said James A. Dawson, Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office. “These individuals allegedly conducted a litany of heinous and barbaric crimes as part of their duties as members of ISIS and for too long, the families of their victims have suffered while awaiting the day they would finally see justice for their loved ones. The men and women of the FBI remain dedicated to bringing the full force of the US justice system upon those who harm our citizens in furtherance of terrorism.”
According to allegations in the indictment, Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi met repeatedly with Adnani concerning the hostage taking scheme and other matters. Between November 2012 and February 2015, Kotey, Elsheikh, Emwazi, and other ISIS fighters committed acts inflicting pain, suffering, cruelty and mistreatment on American, British, European, and other hostages in captivity, including murders; forced witnessing of murders; mock executions; shocks to the torso and extremities with an electric taser; and forced “rumbles” where all hostages were placed in a room and forced to fight one another, among others.
Throughout the captivity of the American hostages and others, Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi allegedly supervised detention facilities holding hostages and were responsible for transferring hostages between detention facilities, in addition to engaging in a prolonged pattern of physical and psychological violence against hostages. From November 2013 to February 2015, Kotey and Elsheikh allegedly coordinated the Western-hostage ransom negotiations conducted by email. Kotey and Elsheikh knew and understood that the release of American and other hostages was conditioned on the transfer of large sums of money or concessions from the United States government, such as the release of Muslim prisoners. The email communications to the families of the American victims were written with clear English using British phrases and idioms, as well as other phrases and language used by Kotey and Elsheikh.
According to allegations in the indictment, on or about April 25, 2014, Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi forcibly moved the Italian, Danish, and German citizens, along with two other European humanitarian aid workers, to an isolated area approximately two miles from their prison to witness the execution of Syrian prisoner. Kotey and Elsheikh knew and understood this execution was part of the hostage negotiation process. Emwazi executed the Syrian prisoner by shooting him in the back of the head and then numerous times in the torso as he fell into a grave. Kotey instructed the hostages to kneel at the side of the grave and witness the execution while holding handmade signs pleading for their release. Elsheikh videotaped the execution of the Syrian hostage, and after the execution the three men returned the European hostages to the prison with Elsheikh telling one hostage, “You’re next, [First name].”
The indictment alleges that ISIS fighters also forcibly seized the following individuals: Two United Kingdom citizens, an Italian citizen, a Danish citizen, a German citizen, four French citizens, three Spanish citizens, a New Zealand citizen, and a Russian citizen.
Kotey and Elsheikh were captured together in January 2018 by the Syrian Democratic Forces as they attempted to escape Syria for Turkey. Emwazi was killed in a United States military airstrike conducted in November 2015 in Syria.
The American Victims
James Wright Foley – In November 2012, Kotey, Elsheikh, Emwazi, and other ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Foley, a citizen of both the United States and the United Kingdom. On or about Aug. 19, 2014, ISIS’s media center released a video depicting Emwazi beheading Foley.
Kayla Jean Mueller – In August 2013, ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Mueller in Syria. Beginning in or about October 2014, Baghdadi sexually abused Mueller against her will while she was held captive in Syria. On or about Feb. 7, 2015, Mueller’s family received an email from ISIS fighters confirming Mueller’s death in Syria.
Steven Joel Sotloff – In August 2013, ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Sotloff in Syria. On or about Sept. 2, 2014, ISIS’s media center released a video depicting Emwazi beheading Sotloff.
Peter Edward Kassig – In October 2013, ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Kassig in Syria. On or about Nov. 16, 2014, ISIS’s media center released a video depicting the decapitated head of Kassig.
Kotey and Elsheikh are each charged with conspiracy to commit hostage taking resulting in death; four counts of hostage taking resulting in death; conspiracy to murder United States citizens outside of the United States; conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists — hostage taking and murder — resulting in death; and conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization resulting in death. If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.
The Department of Justice expresses its profound appreciation to the United Kingdom government as well as the Syrian Democratic Forces for their dedicated commitment to assist the United States in seeking justice for all the victims of the alleged crimes.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs are providing assistance with this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dennis M. Fitzpatrick, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Raj Parekh, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys John T. Gibbs and Aidan Taft Grano are handling the prosecution, with the assistance of Trial Attorney Alicia Cook of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section (CTS) and CTS Deputy Chief Bridget Behling.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:20-cr-239.
An indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
ISIS Militants Charged with Deaths of Americans in SyriaRead the Press Release
Two militant fighters for the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a foreign terrorist organization, are expected to arrive in the United States today in FBI custody on charges related to their participation in a brutal hostage-taking scheme that resulted in the deaths of four American citizens, as well as the deaths of British and Japanese nationals, in Syria.
Former British citizens Alexanda Amon Kotey, 36, and El Shafee Elsheikh, 32, are expected to make their initial appearances in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia this afternoon.
“These charges are the product of many years of hard work in pursuit of justice for our citizens slain by ISIS. Although we cannot bring them back, we can and will seek justice for them, their families, and for all Americans,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Our message to other terrorists around the world is this — if you harm Americans, you will face American arms on the battlefield or American law in our courtrooms. Either way, you will be pursued to the ends of the earth until justice is done.”
“Today, we remember the victims, Jim Foley, Steven Sotloff, Peter Kassig, and Kayla Mueller, and their families who are forever affected by these senseless acts of violence,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “These families have suffered with the painful loss of their loved ones at the hands of brutal killers; today's charges demonstrate the FBI's dedication and commitment to giving them the justice they deserve. We, along with our partners in the U.S. Government, remain steadfast in our duty to bring to justice those who have harmed our citizens -- no matter where they are, and no matter how long it takes. I'm grateful to the men and women of the FBI, the victims' families, and our domestic and international partners, for their tireless efforts to bring us to where we stand today with the prosecution of these men on U.S. soil.”
According to allegations in the indictment, from 2012 to 2015, Kotey, Elsheikh, Mohamed Emwazi (deceased), and a fourth British citizen (CC-1) currently incarcerated in Turkey, were ISIS fighters and participated in the abduction of American and European hostages in Syria. The men also allegedly engaged in a prolonged pattern of physical and psychological violence against the hostages, including against American citizens James Wright Foley, Kayla Jean Mueller, Steven Joel Sotloff, and Peter Edward Kassig. Due to their English accents and their history together in the United Kingdom, the four men were often referred to by hostages as “The Beatles”.
From August 2014 through October 2014, ISIS released videos depicting Emwazi’s barbaric beheadings of Foley, Sotloff, and British citizens David Haines and Alan Henning. In November 2014, ISIS released a video depicting the decapitated head of Kassig. In January 2015, ISIS released videos with images of two dead Japanese citizens.
“Kotey and Elsheikh are alleged to have committed horrific crimes in support of ISIS, including hostage taking resulting in the deaths of four American citizens,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Their alleged acts have shattered the lives of four American families. What each these families have sought more than anything else is for these defendants to have their day in court. Well, that day has come. While we cannot return their loved ones or undo the pain that these families face each day, we can do everything possible to ensure that the defendants are held accountable for their alleged savage actions.”
According to allegations in the indictment, Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi, worked closely with Abu Muhammed al-Adnani, a former leading ISIS commander and chief media spokesperson. Until he was killed in a United States military airstrike in August 2016, Adnani reported directly to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the former self-proclaimed leader of ISIS. Baghdadi was killed during a United States military operation in Syria in October 2019.
“The indictments of Alexanda Kotey and Elshafee Elsheikh are the result of more than eight years of tireless work by the FBI Washington Field Office and personnel across the U.S. Government and the international law enforcement community,” said Acting Assistant Director in Charge James A. Dawson, FBI Washington Field Office. “These individuals allegedly conducted a litany of heinous and barbaric crimes as part of their duties as members of ISIS and for too long, the families of their victims have suffered while awaiting the day they would finally see justice for their loved ones. The men and women of the FBI remain dedicated to bringing the full force of the US justice system upon those who harm our citizens in furtherance of terrorism.”
Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi met repeatedly with Adnani concerning the hostage-taking scheme and other matters. Between November 2012 and February 2015, Kotey, Elsheikh, Emwazi, and other ISIS fighters committed acts inflicting pain, suffering, cruelty and mistreatment on American, British, and other hostages in captivity.
Throughout the captivity of the American hostages and others, Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi allegedly supervised detention facilities holding hostages and were responsible for transferring hostages between detention facilities, in addition to engaging in a prolonged pattern of physical and psychological violence against hostages. From November 2013 to February 2015, Kotey and Elsheikh allegedly coordinated the Western-hostage ransom negotiations conducted by email. Kotey and Elsheikh knew and understood that the release of American and other hostages was conditioned on the transfer of large sums of money or concessions from the United States government, such as the release of Muslim prisoners.
According to allegations in the indictment, on or about April 25, 2014, Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi forcibly moved the Italian, Danish, and German citizens, along with two other European humanitarian aid workers, to an isolated area approximately two miles from their prison to witness the execution of a Syrian prisoner. Kotey and Elsheikh knew and understood this execution was part of the hostage negotiation process. Emwazi executed the Syrian prisoner by shooting him in the back of the head and then numerous times in the torso as he fell into a grave. Kotey instructed the hostages to kneel at the side of the grave and witness the execution while holding handmade signs pleading for their release. Elsheikh videotaped the execution of the Syrian hostage, and after the execution the three men returned the European hostages to the prison with Elsheikh telling one hostage, “You’re next, [First name].”
The indictment alleges that ISIS fighters also forcibly seized the following additional individuals: Two United Kingdom citizens, an Italian citizen, a Danish citizen, a German citizen, four French citizens, three Spanish citizens, a New Zealand citizen, and a Russian citizen.
Kotey and Elsheikh were captured together in January 2018 by the Syrian Democratic Forces as they attempted to escape Syria for Turkey. Emwazi was killed in a United States military airstrike conducted in November 2015 in Syria.
The American Victims
James Wright Foley – In November 2012, Kotey, Elsheikh, Emwazi, and other ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Foley, a citizen of both the United States and the United Kingdom. On or about Aug. 19, 2014, ISIS’s media center released a video depicting Emwazi beheading Foley.
Kayla Jean Mueller – In August 2013, ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Mueller in Syria. Beginning in or about October 2014, Baghdadi sexually abused Mueller against her will while she was held captive in Syria. On or about Feb. 7, 2015, Mueller’s family received an email from ISIS fighters confirming Mueller’s death in Syria.
Steven Joel Sotloff – In August 2013, ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Sotloff in Syria. On or about Sept. 2, 2014, ISIS’s media center released a video depicting Emwazi beheading Sotloff.
Peter Edward Kassig – In October 2013, ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Kassig in Syria. On or about Nov. 16, 2014, ISIS’s media center released a video depicting the decapitated head of Kassig.
Kotey and Elsheikh are each charged with conspiracy to commit hostage taking resulting in death; four counts of hostage taking resulting in death; conspiracy to murder United States citizens outside of the United States; conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists — hostage taking and murder — resulting in death; and conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization resulting in death. If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.
The Department of Justice expresses its profound appreciation to the United Kingdom government as well as the Syrian Democratic Forces for their dedicated commitment to assist the United States in seeking justice for all the victims of the alleged crimes.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. The Justice Department’s National Security Division and Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Raj Parekh, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dennis M. Fitzpatrick, John T. Gibbs and Aidan Taft Grano, and Trial Attorney Alicia Cook of the National Security Division‘s Counterterrorism Section (CTS) are handling the prosecution, with the assistance of CTS Deputy Chief Bridget Behling.
An indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Gunman sentenced for shooting postal workerRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 25-year-old Magnolia man has been ordered to federal prison following his convictions in relation to the December 2019 shootings of a U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mail carrier and a Costco gas station attendant, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Matthew Anthony Williams pleaded guilty June 3 to assaulting a federal employee with a deadly weapon and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nancy Atlas ordered Williams to serve 100 months for the assault and a consecutive 10 years for the firearms conviction. The total 220-month sentence will be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. Williams was further ordered to pay $75,512 in restitution. In handing down the sentence, Judge Atlas noted this was one of the worst crime sprees she has seen, adding that he was lucky no one was dead from his dangerous conduct.
The court enhanced the sentence, finding Williams committed the shootings while under a court protective order for threatening behavior against his girlfriend. Judge Atlas also found Williams had obstructed justice by asking his girlfriend to retract her statement about stealing her car and handgun as well as his whereabouts during the time of the shootings. He also asked her to destroy evidence and contact the victim.
“Postal inspectors’ duties include protecting postal employees and investigating violent crimes that are committed against them,” said Adrian Gonzalez, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Houston Division. “These types of crimes are rare, but when someone attempts to take the life of one of our employees, USPIS will stop at nothing to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. We extend our appreciation to all our local, state and federal law enforcement partners that assisted with this investigation.”
On Dec. 28, 2019, Williams shot the USPS mail carrier while he was delivering mail in west Houston. Shortly thereafter, he drove to a Costco located at Interstate 10 and Bunker Hill and shot a gas station attendant. Both victims survived, but the mail carrier suffered permanent, debilitating injuries.
Williams has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
USPIS conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Houston Police Department and sheriff’s offices in Harris and Montgomery Counties. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard Hanes and Heather Winter prosecuted the case.
Gun store burglar sentenced to nearly five years in prisonRead the Press Release
Seattle - The suspect in the theft of nearly 40 firearms from two different gun stores was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 58 months in prison for two counts of theft of firearms from a federal firearms licensee, announced U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran. JOEY A. MAILLET, 39, pleaded guilty in February 2020. At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Richard A. Jones ordered MAILLET to serve three years of supervised release following the prison term.
In May 2019, MAILLET was identified as the suspect in the April 13, 2019, burglary of Fred’s Guns in Sequim, Clallam County, and in the May 3, 2019, burglary of All American Armory in Bow, Skagit County. According to records filed in the case, forensic evidence, including blood and fingerprints, as well as surveillance video, link MAILLET to the crimes. In Sequim, MAILLET used a backhoe to ram the doors of the store and then broke glass display cases to steal 26 firearms. MAILLET cut his arm on the glass case and left blood and fingerprints at that scene. At All American Armory in Bow, surveillance video showed MAILLET used a stolen pick-up truck to back into the doors of the store, shattering them. MAILLET then used a garbage can, stolen from the neighboring post office, to load up 13 rifles from the store and drove away with them in the stolen pick-up.
The pick-up truck was ultimately found abandoned in Birch Bay State Park in Whatcom County, Washington. Shattered glass was in the truck bed, as well as a stolen boat motor and battery. The truck was reported stolen from an agricultural operation not far from the Bow gun store, and the boat motor and battery were reported stolen by a resident of Ferndale, Washington.
On May 10, 2019, a Ferndale Police Officer encountered MAILLET and arrested him on an outstanding warrant for an Everett, Washington, burglary. After obtaining a court-authorized search warrant, investigators determined items in MAILLET’s backpack linked him to the thefts at the Bow gun store. Additionally, video from the boat motor and battery theft clearly showed MAILLET was the thief.
As for the status of the guns, prosecutors noted in their sentencing memo: “To date, seven of the handguns have been recovered by law enforcement agencies in Canada. The government does not have the full information about these recoveries, but is aware that one was recovered from a woman arrested for theft in Vancouver, BC, and another was recovered from two men arrested in Calgary, AB, with about 250 fentanyl pills and several grams of methamphetamine.” None of the rifles taken in the Bow gun store burglary have been recovered.
Under the terms of the plea agreement, MAILLET is to pay restitution to both stores for the damages to the buildings and the value of the guns. MAILLET is also responsible for damages to the businesses from which he stole the truck and backhoe used in the burglaries. He also will pay restitution to the owner of the stolen boat motor and battery.
At the sentencing hearing, the owners of Fred’s Guns told the judge the burglary had severely impacted their business and their family’s sense of security and wellbeing.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), with assistance from the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office, Sequim Police Department, Washington State Patrol, Skagit County Sheriff’s Office, Ferndale Police Department, and Washington State Parks Rangers.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin H. Becker.
Grand jury indicts St. Louis County man accused of producing child pornographyRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS, MO –A federal grand jury indicted Mark A. Bennett on one count of sexual exploitation of a child. The 47-year old is a resident of Ferguson, Missouri.
The investigation revealed Bennett to be in possession of more than 750 videos and images of child pornography involving children who appeared to be under the age of 12 years. Further, the investigation revealed that Bennett sexually abused a child who was under the age of twelve years, and produced child pornography by photographing his abuse of that child.
During the years that Bennett sexually abused the minor victim, Bennett was employed as a school security officer by the Ferguson-Florissant School District. Bennett was not a member of law enforcement nor employed by any police department.
Bennett faces a minimum punishment of 15 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. Charges set forth in the indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the St. Louis County Police Department Special Investigations Unit investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson is handling the case.
Law enforcement is requesting community assistance in identifying further victims. Anyone with information is asked to please contact the St. Louis County Special Investigations Unit at 314-615-8618.
Franklin County man pleads guilty to production of child pornographyRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS, MO – United States District Judge Henry E. Autrey accepted a plea, today, from Gabriel Trevino. The 35 year old pleaded guilty to the production of child pornography.
According to the plea agreement, between November 11, 2019 and November 18, 2019, Trevino stayed at the residence of a woman he was in a relationship with. After noticing a red light on the side of a picture frame in her children’s bathroom, the woman took the frame apart. She found a hidden camera with a SD card in a slot on the side of the picture frame.
She took the picture frame to a computer store and discovered that on the SD card were 300 video files, including some of her minor children. The woman said some of the videos of her children showed their private areas.
On November 18, 2019, the woman contacted the St. Louis County Police Department. During the Department’s investigation, Trevino admitted to placing the photo frame in the bathroom of the residence in order to attempt to record the woman. Trevino further admitted that he knew he would record the woman’s minor children in the bathroom as well.
The charge of production of child pornography carries a maximum penalty of no more than 30 years of imprisonment and a fine of no more than $250,000.
Judge Autrey has set sentencing for January 13, 2021.
The St. Louis County Police Department, the Washington Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Robert Livergood is handling the case for the United States Attorney’s Office.
Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 60 Month in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Said El-Khatib, 34, of Fort Wayne, Indiana was sentenced before U.S. District Court Judge Holly A. Brady to 60 months in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to the documents in this case, from July 2018 through and including September 26, 2018, Said El-Khatib knowingly possessed a firearm after having been convicted in 2006 of Criminal Recklessness in Allen County, Indiana.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives- Fort Wayne Field Office, Indiana State Police, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives- Toledo, Ohio Field Office, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives Special Response Team 1, New York City Police Department Threat Assessment Protection Unit, Ohio State Police, and the Bronx, New York District Attorney’s Office The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.
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Fort Thompson Man Charged with Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Sexual Abuse of a Minor.
Dawson Donner, age 22, was indicted on September 9, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on October 5, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 15 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years and up to life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that in February 2020, in Buffalo County on the Crow Creek Reservation, Donner knowingly engaged in, and attempted to engage in, sexual acts with two minor victims who had not attained the age of 16.
The charge is merely an accusation and Donner is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley is prosecuting the case.
Donner was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Former Torrington Resident Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Heroin and CocaineRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HENLY FELIZ SANTIAGO, 43, a citizen of the Dominican Republic last residing in Torrington, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to 48 months of imprisonment for trafficking heroin and cocaine
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2018, law enforcement in Indiana seized approximately three kilograms of heroin that was being transported to Santiago, and investigators subsequently learned that Santiago was involved in the cross-country transportation of heroin and cocaine to Connecticut. On January 20, 2018, an Orange County (N.Y) Sheriff conducted a motor vehicle stop of a tractor-trailer at a toll barrier on Interstate 87 in Newburgh, New York. Saul Onzures of El Paso, Texas, was driving the truck and Francisco Castillo, also of El Paso, was a passenger in the truck. A search of the truck revealed 10 kilograms of cocaine that was destined for Santiago in Torrington.
Santiago has been detained since his arrest on November 8, 2018. On January 15, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, one kilogram or more of heroin.
Santiago faces immigration proceedings at the conclusion of his prison term.
Onzures and Castillo pleaded guilty to related charges and were sentenced to prison terms of 27 months and 25 months, respectively.
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.
Former Special Police Officer Charged with Wire Fraud in Connection with Fraudulent Online CampaignRead the Press Release
OAKLAND – Dominic Deandre Gregory has been charged in a criminal complaint with wire fraud in connection with a scheme to raise money with an online campaign purporting to raise money for the funeral of fallen officer Patrick Underwood, announced U.S. Attorney David L. Anderson and Acting Special Agent in Charge Shawn M. Bradstreet of the U.S. Secret Service San Francisco Field Office.
According to the complaint filed September 28, 2020, and unsealed today, Gregory, 27, of Washington D.C., was a Special Police Officer in the District of Columbia when he created the online campaign. Gregory used the website GoFundMe to create the campaign and represented on the website and in communications to donors that he was a family member of Officer Patrick Underwood. Gregory also stated on the website that the campaign was created to raise money for Officer Underwood’s funeral.
Officer Underwood was a Federal Protective Service Officer who was shot and killed on May 29, 2020, while on duty guarding the federal building in Oakland, Calif. Gregory allegedly created the campaign on May 30, 2020, the day after the murder, and at times posted pleas for Underwood’s funeral, his wife, and his kids. Gregory set various fundraising goals on the website, including one for up to $90,000. According to the complaint, Gregory has no known connection to the Underwood family; also, Underwood was unmarried, and he had no children. The complaint alleges that even after the GoFundMe account was deactivated, Gregory encouraged donors to make contributions using an alternative payment service.
Gregory is charged with wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343.
The charges contained in the criminal complaint are mere allegations. As in any criminal case, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted of the charge, Gregory faces a maximum statutory sentence of 20 years imprisonment, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
Gregory made his initial federal court appearance this morning before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph C. Spero. Chief Magistrate Judge Spero ordered Gregory released on $25,000 bond. Gregory’s next appearance is scheduled for November 2, 2020, before Magistrate Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley for a status conference.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly K. Priedeman is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Alexa Leisure. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service.
Former School Athletic Trainer Pleads Guilty to Enticing 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 Austin Pratt, 32, of Conesus, NY, pleaded guilty to enticement of a minor before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that between November 2018 and February 2019, the defendant, while working as a school athletic trainer, engaged in an ongoing relationship with the minor victim. Pratt used Instagram and Facebook to communicate with the minor, encouraging the victim to engage in a sexual relationship and to exchange sexually explicit photos with him.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Barry Chase; the Rochester Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; and the Livingston County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney Gregory J. McCaffrey.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 11, 2021, at 3:30 p.m. before Judge Wolford.
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Former Loves Park Woman Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
ROCKFORD — A former Loves Park woman was sentenced today in federal court by U.S. District Judge Philip G. Reinhard for wire fraud.
MICHELLE L. McKINNEY, 43, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison and ordered to pay restitution of $470,454. McKinney pleaded guilty to the charge on Dec. 13, 2019.
According to a written plea agreement, between June 2013 and September 2016, while employed as an account manager by a roofing company that operated a cloud-based construction management program, McKinney schemed to defraud her employer and obtain money and property by fraudulent representations and concealment of material facts. As an account manager, McKinney was responsible for the oversight of the company’s payroll, human resources, accounts payable, and accounts receivable. Some of the company’s employees, including McKinney, were issued a corporate credit card. Without the company’s knowledge, McKinney also had another corporate credit card issued. McKinney also had access to the company’s bank account and accompanying debit card.
As stated in the plea agreement, McKinney authorized monthly money transfers from the company to pay the entire balance of all the company’s credit cards. McKinney used the credit cards and debit card to make unauthorized purchases for her own benefit totaling more than $470,000. In order to conceal her unauthorized purchases, McKinney disguised her unauthorized charges in the company’s accounting system as company expenses such as office supplies or fees.
McKinney created fictitious payroll invoices in the amount of her unauthorized purchases, and also entered her personal transactions in bulk into the company’s accounting system instead of line-by-line to conceal the true nature of the transactions.
The sentencing was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Emmerson Buie, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott R. Paccagnini.
Former Gulfport Woman Pleads Guilty to Mail Theft ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Sabrina Nicole Cooper, a/k/a Sabrina Cooper Morrison a/k/a Sabrina Nicole Morrison a/k/a Niki Morrison, 37, formerly of Gulfport, pled guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden, to conspiring to commit theft of mail, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Chris Cave with the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Southern Area Field Office.
From September 2016 through March 2017, in Harrison and Hancock Counties, Cooper and co-conspirators stole mail from victims’ residences and mail boxes in the Gulfport and Bay St. Louis areas. Cooper and her co-conspirators cashed checks from the stolen mail matter and made mobile deposits with stolen checks into a bank account controlled by a co-conspirator.
Sabrina Nicole Cooper will be sentenced by Judge Ozerden on January 7, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. in Gulfport. She faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.
Former Bay Springs City Administrator Pleads Guilty to Federal Criminal Charges Related to Embezzlement of City FundsRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss. – Randy James, 56, the former City Clerk of Bay Springs in Jasper County, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett, to money laundering and making false statements on a federal tax return, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent-in-Charge James E. Dorsey of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Atlanta Field Office, and Mississippi State Auditor Shad White.
“One of the highest priorities of this office is bringing to justice corrupt officials who betray our public trust. I commend local bank employees who spotted this criminal activity, as well as our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners and prosecutors who were diligent in catching this crook and holding him accountable. We will continue to do all that we can to root out criminality and corruption in all forms of government,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
“Today’s guilty plea sends a clear message that public officials, whether elected or appointed, hold positions of trust in the eyes of the public. This trust is broken when these officials commit crimes,” said Demetrius Hardeman, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, IRS CI Atlanta Field Office. “No public official gets a free pass to ignore the tax laws, and IRS-CI works diligently, in concert with state and local partners, to ensure everyone pays their fair share.”
“This loss is massive for a town the size of Bay Springs – over 10% of their annual budget. Our small towns cannot afford to lose a single penny right now,” stated State Auditor White. “My office will work to hold fraudsters like Randy James, who knowingly steal your money, accountable with zero tolerance for this kind of theft.”
James is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Starrett on January 12, 2021, at 10:30 a.m. in Hattiesburg.
At sentencing, James will face up to 10 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release for money laundering. Additionally, James faces up to three years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and one year of supervised release, making false statement on a Federal Income Tax Return.
During 2017 and 2018, Randy James was employed by the City of Bay Springs, Mississippi, as City Clerk, and had control over certain financial aspects of the city. During this time, James embezzled just over $300,000 from Bay Springs between August 2017 and April 2018 by creating fraudulent invoices from fictitious companies for the costs of false services that were never approved or incurred by the city. James diverted city funds by obtaining checks from the City of Bay Springs, cashing the checks at a local bank, and wiring those funds overseas to international scammers in the hope of winning money in a lottery scheme.
According to the Criminal Information filed in this case, James also made false statements on his personal 2018 Federal Income Tax Return by under-reporting gross receipts by $193,331.00.
The State Auditor’s Office previously issued a demand letter to James for $325,562 which included the amount of his embezzlement, plus interest and investigative costs. In his publicly filed plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, James agreed to pay a total of $420,562 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the federal, state and local law enforcement cooperation displayed in this case. The case was investigated by the Mississippi State Auditor’s Office and by agents for the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.
Florida Recording Artist and Pennsylvania Man Charged in $24 Million Covid-Relief Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Florida Recording Artist Accused of Buying Ferrari with Relief Money
Miami, Fl. -- A Florida recording artist and a Pennsylvania towing company owner have been charged for their alleged participation in a scheme to file fraudulent loan applications seeking more than $24 million in forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Diamond Blue Smith, 36, of Miramar, Florida, and Tonye C. Johnson, 28, of Flourtown, Pennsylvania, were charged in federal criminal complaints filed in the Southern District of Florida with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud. Smith was arrested and appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Regina D. Cannon of the Northern District of Georgia. Johnson was arrested on Oct. 1, 2020, and appeared on Oct. 2, 2020, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Henry S. Perkin of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The complaints were unsealed today.
U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan of the Southern District of Florida, Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting Special Agent in Charge Tyler R. Hatcher of the IRS-Criminal Investigation (CI) Miami Field Office, Special Agent in Charge George L. Piro of FBI’s Miami Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Kevin A. Kupperbusch of the U.S. SBA-Office of Inspector General (OIG), Investigations Division, Eastern Regional Office, made the announcement.
The criminal complaint against Smith alleges the following: Smith, a recording artist, obtained a PPP loan of $426,717 for his company, Throwbackjersey.com LLC, using falsified documents. Upon completion of that loan, Smith then sought and obtained another PPP loan of $708,065 for his other company, Blue Star Records LLC, using falsified documents. Smith purchased a Ferrari for $96,000 and made other luxury purchases using PPP loan proceeds. Authorities seized the Ferrari at the time of Smith’s arrest. He also withdrew $271,805 in loan proceeds. The complaint further alleges that Smith sought PPP loans on behalf of others in order to receive kickbacks for those confederates.
The criminal complaint against Johnson alleges the following: Johnson obtained a PPP loan of $389,627 for his own company, Synergy Towing & Transport LLC using falsified documents. Johnson paid a portion of the loan proceeds to co-conspirators in the scheme.
According to the complaints, Smith and Johnson conspired with others to obtain millions of dollars in fraudulent PPP loans. It is alleged that early in their scheme, Smith and Johnson’s co-conspirator, Phillip J. Augustin, obtained a fraudulent PPP loan for his talent management company using falsified documents. After submitting that application, Augustin then began to work with other co-conspirators on a scheme to submit numerous fraudulent PPP loan applications for confederate loan applicants, in order to receive kickbacks for obtaining the forgivable loans for them, say the court documents. The complaints allege that the scheme involved the preparation of at least 90 fraudulent applications, most of which were submitted. According to the complaints, Augustin, Smith, Johnson, and other conspirators in the scheme applied for PPP loans that are together worth more than $24 million. Many of those loan applications were approved and funded by financial institutions, paying out at least $17.4 million.
The following 11 defendants are accused in other unsealed complaints of being involved in this fraud scheme:
- Joshua J. Bellamy, 31, of St. Petersburg, Florida, was charged in a federal criminal complaint filed on Sept. 9, 2020, in the Southern District of Florida with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud;
- Tiara Walker, 37, of Miami Gardens, Florida, was charged in a federal criminal complaint filed on Sept. 3, 2020, in the Southern District of Florida, with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud;
- Damion O. Mckenzie, 38, of Miami Gardens, Florida, was charged in a federal criminal complaint filed on Aug. 3, 2020, in the Southern District of Florida with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud;
- Andre M. Clark, 46, of Miramar, Florida, was charged in a federal criminal complaint filed on Aug. 3, 2020, in the Southern District of Florida with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud;
- Keyaira Bostic, 31, of Pembroke Pines, Florida, was charged in a federal criminal complaint filed on Aug. 3, 2020, in the Southern District of Florida with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud;
- Phillip J. Augustin, 51, of Coral Springs, Florida, was charged in a federal criminal complaint filed on July 28, 2020, in the Northern District of Ohio with wire fraud, bank fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, and obstruction;
- Wyleia Nashon Williams, 44, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, was charged in a federal criminal complaint filed on July 28, 2020, in the Northern District of Ohio with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud;
- James R. Stote, 54, of Hollywood, Florida, was charged in a federal criminal complaint filed on June 24, 2020, in the Northern District of Ohio with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud;
- Ross Charno, 46, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, was charged in a federal criminal complaint filed on June 24, 2020, in the Northern District of Ohio with wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud;
- Deon D. Levy, 50, of Bedford, Ohio, was charged in a federal complaint filed on June 8, 2020, in the Northern District of Ohio with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud; and
- Abdul-Azeem Levy, 22, of Cleveland, Ohio was charged in a federal complaint filed on June 8, 2020, in the Northern District of Ohio with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
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.
A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The Smith and Johnson cases were investigated by the IRS-CI Miami and Cincinnati Field Offices, the FBI’s Miami and Cleveland Field Offices, and the SBA-OIG. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aimee Jimenez and David Snider for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorney Philip Trout of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the cases. The Justice Department also acknowledges and thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio, the IRS-CI Philadelphia Field Office, the FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General for their assistance investigating this matter.
You may find related court documents and information on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Final Defendant in Skipworth Drug Trafficking Gang in Philadelphia and its Surrounding Suburbs Sentenced to 15 YearsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Rahim Amin, 36, of Philadelphia, PA was sentenced to 15 years in prison, and five years of supervised release by United States District Judge Mark A. Kearney for his role in a large scale drug trafficking ring.
The defendant pleaded guilty in November 2019 to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Amin was a member of the “Skipworth” drug trafficking organization, which sold bulk quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and other deadly drugs in Philadelphia and its surrounding suburbs. Following a lengthy investigation, including a series of court-ordered wiretaps, the defendant and his co-conspirators were indicted by a federal grand jury.
Amin’s co-conspirators, Damir Skipworth (the gang’s namesake), Jarrett Cobb, and Tyrone Smith all previously pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges in this case and received significant prison sentences: Skipworth more than eight years, Cobb more than five years, and Smith more than three years. A fourth co-defendant, Vontez Scales, was convicted at trial of possession with intent to distribute and conspiracy to distribute narcotics and was sentenced to over 26 years.
“By pumping millions of dollars worth of meth, heroin, cocaine and fentanyl into our region, the Skipworth drug trafficking organization was a menace to Philadelphia and its suburbs,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “With Amin’s sentence, all of the defendants in this case have now received substantial periods of incarceration. Nobody should have to endure living in a neighborhood where drug dealers and thugs act like they’re in charge. My Office, together with our law enforcement partners, must be relentless in attacking and destroying these drug gangs, along with the violence that often comes with them.”
“The dismantling of the Skipworth DTO by federal law enforcement officers and the Bucks County Drug Strike Force is a great testament to the force multiplier effect that we achieve when we all work together to make our community safer. No egos; just a great collaborative effort by all involved for justice and public safety,” said Bucks County District Attorney Matthew Weintraub.
The case was investigated by the Bucks County Detective Bureau and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christopher Parisi and Andrea Foulkes.
Federal Jury Convicts Granby Man of Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Granby man was convicted today by a federal jury in Springfield of child exploitation offenses.
Jonathan Monson, 38, was convicted of four counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, eight counts of distribution of child pornography, two counts of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni scheduled sentencing for Jan. 7, 2021. The defendant was arrested on March 8, 2018 and has been held in custody since that time.
Monson used a child on four occasions in 2017 and 2018 to produce child pornography, which was later found on his cell phone. In June 2017, Monson distributed child pornography files to a Kik messenger group. Monson was trading child pornography videos on Kik messenger at 3:30 in the morning with another Kik user, just a few hours before federal agents executed a search warrant at his home. The evidence at trial also showed that Monson had additional child pornography files on his phone at the time of the search warrant.
The charge of sexual exploitation of a child provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charges of receipt and distribution of child pornography provide for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years in prison, a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Granby Police Chief Alan Wishart made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex J. Grant of Lelling’s Springfield Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
Federal Grand Jury Charges 8 Defendants with Trafficking Kilograms of Cocaine by Mail and Airline from Southern California to AlaskaRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – Law enforcement in several states today arrested six defendants charged in a federal grand jury indictment alleging they participated in a Southern California-based outfit that trafficked kilogram quantities of cocaine to Alaska via commercial air flights and the mail.
The defendants arrested today made their initial appearances in United States District Court in Los Angeles, Anchorage, Chicago and Seattle. One defendant is in state custody in California while another is expected to surrender to federal law enforcement in the coming week.
The indictment alleges that, from July 2014 to August 2016, the defendants conspired to traffic kilogram quantities of cocaine – along with other drugs such as heroin and methamphetamine – out of Southern California. The drugs and resulting cash proceeds were transported via commercial air travel and by mail to Alaska, the indictment alleges.
Specifically, the indictment alleges on October 23, 2015 in Los Angeles County, law enforcement seized from lead defendant and the organization’s alleged narcotics supplier Raul Cisneros Jr., 42, of Compton, nearly 24 kilograms of cocaine, more than 3.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, and $568,357 in cash, along with various firearms and ammunition.
The indictment also alleges that nearly two kilograms of cocaine and more than $12,000 in cash were seized in a motel parking lot in Anchorage on June 11, 2015. The cocaine had been mailed to Natasha Monique Bushner, 31, of Los Angeles, who delivered it to Margus Gipson, a.k.a. “Melly Mel,” 35, of Compton, the indictment alleges.
All of the defendants are charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Cisneros is charged with seven additional drug- and firearm-related felonies. Asia Dawnta Williams, 27, of Chicago; Damon Eugene Smith, a.k.a. “Big Head,” 37, of Compton; Margus Gipson and his brother, Dawaun Darnell Gipson, a.k.a. “Caddy,” 36, of Compton; are charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin, which carries a five-year mandatory minimum sentence and a 40-year statutory maximum sentence.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration investigated this matter. This investigation was conducted with the support of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chelsea Norell of the International Narcotics, Money Laundering, and Racketeering Section, and Kathy Yu of the Violent and Organized Crime Section.
Former Tribal Judge Sentenced for Trafficking Oxycodone and Cocaine on the Wind River Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
On October 6, 2020, Federal District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson sentenced former Wind River Indian Reservation Chief Tribal Court Judge Terri Smith and her sister Jerri Lee Smith on federal drug charges. TERRI SMITH, 35, of Arapahoe, Wyoming, was sentenced for conspiracy to distribute oxycodone and distribution of cocaine. She received six months of imprisonment, to be followed by thirty-six months of supervised release, and ordered to pay community restitution in the amount of $500.00 and a $200.00 special assessment. JERRI LEE SMITH, 35, of Salt Lake City, Utah was sentenced for conspiracy to distribute oxycodone, conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. She received fifty-one months of imprisonment, to be followed by forty-eight months of supervised release, and ordered to pay community restitution in the amount of $400.00 and a $300.00 special assessment.
“No one is above the law, even those in positions of trust,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Klaassen. “Instances of public officials being caught up in criminal activity are thankfully rare in Wyoming, but we will remain vigilant to ensure that all citizens are treated equally under the law and held accountable, regardless of their position.”
Agents with the FBI, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation began an investigation into suspected drug activity and trafficking in 2018, after several traffic stops by the Wyoming Highway Patrol led to the discovery of quantities of methamphetamine, oxycodone, and cocaine. A variety of investigative resources were used to determine that Jerri Smith and Terri Smith had been obtaining oxycodone in Utah and were selling them in Fremont County and on the Wind River Indian Reservation. Additionally the investigation uncovered that Jerri Smith was also obtaining methamphetamine and cocaine in Utah then distributing and selling it in Wyoming. At the time of the investigation, Terri Smith was the Chief Tribal Judge on the Wind River Indian Reservation. She later resigned from her position.
"Today's sentencing of Tribal Judge Terri Smith and her sister is a step forward in identifying public officials and private citizens who commit federal crimes and victimize the community members of the Wind River Indian Reservation," said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Michael Schneider. "Public officials who engage in violations of federal law, to include drug trafficking, erodes the public's confidence in government. Investigating these individuals is one of the FBI's top criminal priorities. The FBI Denver Division would like to extend its appreciation to the Rocky Mountain Safe Trails Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, and U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Wyoming for their invaluable assistance in this investigation."
Duquesne Man Gets 22-Year Federal Prison Sentence for Fifth Drug Trafficking ConvictionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Duquesne, PA, has been sentenced to 22 years' (264 months’) imprisonment and eight years of supervised release after his conviction for violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge David Stewart Cercone imposed the sentence on Donte Taylor, 37, of 825 Catherine Street, Duquesne, Pennsylvania who was found guilty of possessing with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base and quantities of cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana.
The evidence introduced during the trial established that on May 10, 2018, Taylor was on parole for a previous drug trafficking conviction when Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole Agents arrived at his residence to conduct a home visit. Agents smelled an odor of marijuana in Taylor’s residence. Taylor’s co-defendant, Ericka Smith, provided agents and Officers with the Duquesne Police Department consent to search the residence. They searched the residence and recovered approximately 279 grams of crack cocaine, 33 grams of cocaine, 56 grams of heroin, 12 grams of fentanyl, 155 grams of marijuana, $14,466, scales, and other drug trafficking materials. This was Taylor’s fifth drug trafficking conviction.
In pronouncing the sentence, Judge Cercone referenced Taylor’s lengthy criminal history and willingness to engage in drug trafficking despite numerous, previous drug trafficking convictions. Judge Cercone also emphasized that Taylor committed the instant offense while on parole and has never accepted any responsibility for his criminal conduct. Judge Cercone remanded Taylor to the custody of the United States Bureau of Prisons.
Assistant United States Attorney and Mark V. Gurzo prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Duquesne Police Department, and Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole for conducting the investigation leading to the prosecution of Taylor.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month featured grant and organizationRead the Press Release
Indianapolis – United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced today’s Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women featured grant and grant recipient.
“We know that the sooner we can assist survivors in finding housing in combination with supportive case management, we increase their sustainability for a violence free future,” said Lisa Shafran, President, Turning Point Domestic Violence Services. “We are thrilled to have received a renewal of this grant which will only increase our capacity to serve those in need.”
Transitional Housing Assistance Grant for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Stalking, or Sexual Assault Program
The Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking (Transitional Housing Program) supports programs that provide 6-24 months of transitional housing with support services for victims who are homeless or in need of transitional housing as a result of a situation of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, and for whom emergency shelter services or other crisis intervention services are unavailable or insufficient. The program can fund transitional housing, short-term housing assistance, and voluntary support services for recipients of transitional housing, including counseling, childcare, transportation, and life skills, educational and/or job training.
Turning Point Domestic Violence Services
Turning Point Domestic Violence Services is a non-profit organization located in Columbus, Indiana that has provided victim services since 1975. The 25-bed Emergency Shelter serves a six-county area including Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur, Jackson, Johnson, and Shelby counties.
Through this grant, the organization will provide 60 clustered, and scattered-site residences for 60 survivors and their families through program-owned and private landlord housing units. Turning Point Domestic Violence Services will collaborate with its partner, the Family Service, Incorporated to provide a holistic, victim-centered, and multidisciplinary approach to transitional housing needs in the community.
This continuation project will use funds to provide both housing and supportive services to move survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking who are homeless to permanent housing. The project will assist clients for an anticipated minimum of 6 months and a maximum length of 24 months.
Services offered will focus on meeting the needs of the underserved Latino, Spanish-speaking, immigrant, deaf, disabled, rural, LGBTQ and substance abuse survivor population in the region. The grant activities will be tailored to meet the needs of the clients.
The range of optional support services include: rental and utility assistance, case management, safety planning, childcare, transportation, career counseling, financial and credit counseling, support groups, individual counseling, job training, education attainment, limited legal assistance, substance abuse services, court accompaniment, and housing advocacy. The project will also provide follow-up services for at least three months once permanent housing is secured.
Turning Point Domestic Violence Services 24/7 Crisis/Helpline can be reached at 1-800-221-6311
DoJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in FY20Read the Press Release
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Of the more than 500 cases charged, twenty cases have been brought by the Northern District of Iowa, announced U.S. Attorney Peter Deegan.
“Our office is dedicated to making our community safer by prosecuting the most dangerous offenders,” said United States Attorney Peter Deegan. “That includes domestic abusers who unlawfully possess guns or ammunition. Like felons and drug users, convicted domestic abusers simply cannot have guns or ammunition. If they do so, they are violating federal law and risk being sent to federal prison. The twenty cases our office has charged in the last year demonstrate our commitment to holding accountable armed domestic abusers.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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.
Defendant Going to Prison for 20 Years for Coercing an 11-Year-Old to Have SexRead 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 Sachin Aji Bhaskar, 24, of India, who was convicted of sexual enticement of a minor, was sentenced to serve 20 years in prison by Senior U.S. District Judge William J. Skretny.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell T. Ippolito, Jr., who handled the case, stated that the defendant met the 11 year-old minor victim online and communicated with the minor victim through text messages. On August 11, 2018, Bhaskar coerced the victim to have sex with him. The defendant picked up the victim at the victim’s residence in Buffalo, NY, and took the victim to an apartment where the defendant was staying at the time in Williamsville, NY. The minor victim’s mother called the Buffalo Police after discovering what had happened when the minor victim returned home the following morning.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood.
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DOJ charges 500+ domestic violence-related firearm cases in FY20Read the Press Release
The Department of Justice announced today that it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving a firearm during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms-related crimes.”
In the Northern District of Ohio, the number of domestic violence cases involving a firearm brought by federal prosecutors has increased substantially in the past few years, announced U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman.
“In the two years since we announced a new focus on domestic violence enforcement in October of 2018, the Northern District of Ohio has charged 34 individuals with violating 18 USC 922(g)(8) and (9). That number represents a more than 300-percent increase in the number of cases brought against domestic violence offenders than in the previous three years. Domestic violence offenders are prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms for good reason. We remain ready to prosecute when these offenders run afoul of the law.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
The Domestic Violence Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
DOJ Charges More Than 500 Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in FY20Read the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. – The Department of Justice announced on Wednesday it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020.
A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Locally, since October 2017, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky has brought eleven cases, including two cases in 2020, against defendants charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm after a conviction for a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence or who were subject to a qualifying protective order. In 2020, two defendants have been sentenced for domestic violence and firearms related convictions.
Shawn Lee Perkins, of Montgomery County, was sentenced in August 2020 to serve 78 months in prison after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm after having been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, among other charges. Perkins admitted in his plea agreement that in 2018 and 2019 he knowingly possessed several firearms after being convicted of Assault Fourth Degree-Domestic Violence in Fleming County, Kentucky in 2011. After serving his sentence, Perkins will serve a period of supervised release for 3 years.
Scott Kirk Koehler, of Lexington, was sentenced in May 2020 to the equivalent of 18 months in prison, after pleading guilty to unlawfully possessing a firearm while subject to a domestic violence order. In his plea agreement, Koehler admitted that on April 30, 2018, he possessed five firearms while he was subject to an Emergency Protection Order, a domestic violence order issued by the Fayette County District Court in July 2015. Koehler was arrested by ATF in September 2018 and ordered to be held in custody pending resolution of his federal charges. Koehler is on supervised release for a period of 18 months.
“A firearm unlawfully possessed by a domestic abuser is a recipe for deadly violence and tragedy,” said U.S. Attorney Duncan. “Reducing gun violence, including domestic violence related firearms offenses, is a fundamental priority for my Office and the Department of Justice. I am proud to serve as a member of the Attorney General’s Domestic Violence Working Group, to help further the Department’s efforts to use federal firearms prosecutions to prevent domestic violence.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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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DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence–Related Firearms Cases in Fiscal Year 2020Read the Press Release
Western District of Tennessee Has Charged 25 Cases in FY 20
Memphis, TN – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
"Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities," said Attorney General Barr. "This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes."
"According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner," said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. "Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities."
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Persons with histories of domestic violence present a known and immediate risk of violence to their families and the community at large. The presence of a firearm during a crime of domestic violence dramatically increases the chances that the victim or other family members in the household, including children,will be fatally shot. A central component of PSN is that safe neighborhoods begin with safe homes, and through our aggressive federal prosecution of these known abusers, we can incapacitate and hold dangerous offenders accountable, send a strong message of deterrence, reduce violent crime rates, and ultimately save lives."
Of the more than 500 cases charged, 25 cases have been brought by the Western District of Tennessee in FY 2020, announced U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant. Here in the Western District of Tennessee, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has dramatically increased the number of defendants charged with domestic violence-related firearms offenses over the last 3 years:
FY 2016 FY 2017 FY 2018 FY 2019 FY 2020
Defendants charged 1 15 33 22 25
Examples of successful federal prosecutions of firearms offenses committed by domestic abusers in West Tennessee over the last year include the following:
• Domestic Abuser Sentenced to 6 Years for Unlawful Possession of Multiple Firearms: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/pr/domestic-abuser-sentenced-6-years-unlawful-possession-multiple-firearms
• Convicted Felon with Prior Domestic Violence History Given 5 Year Sentence for Gun Possession: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/pr/convicted-felon-prior-domestic-violence-history-given-5-year-sentence-gun-possession
• Convicted Felon Sentenced to Over 7 Years for Possession of Firearm During Domestic Violence Incident and Possession of Ammunition After Threatening and Evading Law Enforcement: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/pr/convicted-felon-sentenced-over-7-years-possession-firearm-during-domestic-violence
• Convicted Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of a Firearm During Domestic Violence Incident: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/pr/convicted-felon-sentenced-federal-prison-possession-firearm-during-domestic-violence
• Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm During Domestic Violence Incident Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/pr/convicted-felon-possession-firearm-during-domestic-violence-incident-sentenced-10-years
• Convicted Felon with Prior Domestic Violence Conviction Sentenced to Federal Prison for Being in Possession of Ammunition: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/pr/convicted-felon-prior-domestic-violence-conviction-sentenced-federal-prison-being
This significant increase in federal charges and convictions in this category is a direct result of the Justice Department’s aggressive effort to keep guns out of the hands of domestic abusers. This effort, combined with the re-invigoration of Project Safe
Neighborhoods (PSN) and the Justice Department’s concerted efforts to prosecute violent crime through Project Guardian and Operation LeGend, has resulted in this success.
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearms Cases in Fiscal Year 2020Read the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, NY – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
“Domestic violence is a violent crime that destroys one of the most important bonds necessary to hold us together as a Nation—the family bond,” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “When illegal guns end up in the hands of an individual with a history of domestic violence, the results are often deadly. Preventing abusers and criminals from getting guns remains a top priority for my Office, and we will continue to work relentlessly with our law enforcement partners at the local, state, and federal levels in that life-saving effort.”
Here, in the Western District of New York: • Michael T. Blajszczak was charged and convicted of possession of a firearm by a person subject to a domestic violence order of protection, and sentenced to serve 12 months in prison. On April 27, 2019, a six-month domestic violence order of protection was issued in Cheektowaga, NY, Town Court against the defendant, who was an Erie County Sheriff’s Deputy at the time. As a result of that order, Blajszczak was prohibited from possessing any firearm during the time period for which it was in effect. On May 2, 2019, the defendant knowingly possessed a .22 caliber rifle and 11 rounds of ammunition.
• Charges remain pending against defendant Arthur Everett, who is accused of possessing firearms while subject to domestic violence protective order. According to an indictment against the defendant, on May 8, 2019, Everett, knowing he was subject to a restraining order issued by Erie County Court, knowingly possessed seven firearms, including five pistols, a revolver, and a semi-automatic handgun. 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.Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm; • 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence); and
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order.Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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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DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in FY20Read the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
“Convicted domestic abusers forfeit their right to own guns,” said United States Michael Bailey. “Home should be a place of peace, and never a place of fear. As prosecutors, we must keep these violent offenders from causing further harm.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
-
18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
RELEASE NUMBER: 2020-083_Domestic Violence
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in FY20Read the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Of the more than 500 cases charged, 13 cases have been brought by the Eastern District of California, announced U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott.
“Our goal of ending domestic violence cannot be reached as long as those with a history of domestic violence against their partners have access to guns,” said U.S. Attorney Scott. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office routinely works with federal, state, and local law enforcement to charge previously convicted felons with firearm possession crimes, especially domestic violence convictions. This is an effective way to reduce violent crimes against women across the country.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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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.
DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in FY20Read the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes: • 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective orderBased on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in FY20Read the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
"Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities," said Attorney General Barr. "This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes."
"According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner," said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. "Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities."
"The safety of our neighborhoods depend foundationally on the safety of our homes," stated U.S. Attorney Downing. "Through 'Operation 922,' we join together the strength of federal prosecution with state, local, and tribal law enforcement on behalf of vulnerable members of our communities. Women and children who are subject to repeated abuse and violence deserve to be defended by those tasked with the ethical, vigorous, fair and impartial enforcement of the laws of the United States. Together, we work to counter the destructive presence of domestic violence in Oklahoma."
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
Nationally
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
Western District of Oklahoma
The Western District of Oklahoma was one of the first districts in the nation to specifically target domestic violence when, in March of 2018, it launched "Operation 922" as its local implementation of the national Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative. "Operation 922" specifically targets violent offenders who violate federal laws and have a history of domestic abuse, are subject to a victim protection order, have been previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, or who were arrested by law enforcement in response to a domestic violence related call.
Since March of 2018, a total of 124 domestic violence related-cases have been brought by the Western District of Oklahoma through "Operation 922." These domestic violence related cases arose in 16 different counties across the Western District.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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.
Reference is made to court filings for further information. To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.
DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in FY20Read the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
“Domestic violence is both prolific and diabolical. It has devastated far too many West Virginia families,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We know that when a domestic abuser has a gun, the consequences are often tragic. In partnership with ATF, my office works closely with state and local law enforcement to prevent domestic violence through federal prosecutions. We owe it to the victims of domestic violence to use every resource available to keep guns out of abusers’ hands.”
“Domestic violence affects women, men, and families across West Virginia each year - and when coupled with a firearm, this abuse far too often becomes a violent crime,” stated Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of ATF’s Louisville Field Division. “ATF is committed to keeping firearms out of the hands of abusers through the enforcement of federal firearms laws and the successful prosecutions of these offenders. Our partnership with United States Attorney Mike Stuart is helping to keep West Virginia families safe.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews and USAttyStuart
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DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in FY20Read the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Of the more than 500 cases charged, 13 cases have been brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, announced U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald.
“Under federal law, abusers are prohibited from purchasing, possessing, borrowing, storing, or carrying firearms at any time. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and throughout the year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is taking a stand in the fight against domestic violence by vigorously enforcing these firearms laws that are in place to help protect individuals, families, and communities,” said U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald.
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in FY20Read the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Over the past year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada has charged 32 firearms cases related to domestic violence, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich. Those cases encompass matters where federal firearms charges arose from the defendant’s arrest during a domestic violence incident, cases where the defendant previously had been convicted of a domestic violence offense and/or was subject to a domestic violence protective order, and matters in which the charging document references domestic violence in the defendant’s criminal history.
“With appreciation for additional resources provided by the Department of Justice, our office is making a renewed push to prosecute domestic violence offenders who illegally possess guns,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “I am honored to represent the District of Nevada on the Domestic Violence Working Group, and prioritize these critical cases through Project Veronica. Along with our law enforcement partners, our combined efforts are targeted to preventing domestic violence fatalities, as well as holding accountable individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence Related Firearm Cases in FY20Read the Press Release
MACON, Ga – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
“Just last month, a case that began with Bibb County authorities responding to a domestic violence call ended with a convicted felon with a violent criminal history pleading guilty to illegally possessing a firearm. He is facing a maximum ten years in a federal prison for his crime,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “Our office remains committed to improving the safety and security of our citizens by removing firearms from the hands of violent offenders, convicted felons and those with misdemeanor domestic violence convictions. Those caught with guns will face federal prosecution and the possibility of federal prison without parole.”
On Tuesday, September 15, Freddie Slaughter, Jr., 40, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count possession of a firearm by a convicted felon before U.S. District Judge Tripp Self. Judge Self scheduled sentencing for December 8, 2020. According to the stipulation of fact, law enforcement was dispatched to a Macon residence on June 9, 2019, in reference to an alleged domestic disturbance involving Slaughter. When officers arrived at the scene and told the defendant they were responding to a possible domestic violence incident, Slaughter ran. Officers detained Slaughter, and a loaded semiautomatic pistol fell out of his pocket. Slaughter has several prior felony convictions, including robbery by sudden snatching in the Superior Court of Bibb County, Georgia on June 27, 2005. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm. You can read the complete press release by visiting this website: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/slaughter-caught-gun-during-domestic-violence-call-pleads-guilty
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Domestic Violence Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Domestic Violence Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). 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. 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.
DOJ Charges 500 Plus Domestic Violence Firearm Related Cases in FY 20Read the Press Release
HAMMOND – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Of the more than 500 cases charged, 13 cases have been brought by Northern Indiana, announced U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II.
United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II said, “My Office has no tolerance for convicted felons possessing firearms, particularly when these individuals also have a history of domestic violence. We always have and will continue to focus on these type of cases with our law enforcement partners.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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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.
###
DOJ Charges 500 + Domestic Violence-Related Firearms Cases in FY2020Read the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first-ever Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Of the more than 500 cases charged in FY2020, eight domestic violence-related firearms cases have been brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Oklahoma, one resulting in the death of the victim, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores, member of the Attorney General’s Domestic Violence Working group.
In August and September, the U.S. Attorney’s Office also charged 10 additional defendants in domestic violence cases not involving firearms, some resulting in homicide. Charges include assault with a dangerous weapon, assault resulting in serious bodily injury, assault by strangling or suffocating, kidnapping and more.
“Domestic violence prosecutions are akin to homicide prevention. We owe it to victims of domestic violence to dedicate all available resources to stop habitual offenders and break the cycle of violence. Firearms are used in more than half of all intimate partner homicides in the United States, and that’s one area where my office can focus our prosecutions,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “Bottom line, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focused on keeping guns out of the hands of perpetrators with domestic violence convictions. We do this by prosecuting these abusers when they possess a firearm or ammunition, thus taking them out of the home so victims can feel safe and seek essential services to help them move forward.”
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
DOJ Charges 500+ Domestic Violence-Related Firearm Cases in Fy20Read the Press Release
BILLINGS – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.
“Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities,” said Attorney General Barr. “This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes.”
“According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner,” said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. “Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities.”
Of the more than 500 cases charged, nine cases have been brought in Montana, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
"Since COVID arrived, domestic violence has increased in Montana. To protect future victims, it's even more imperative now that we keep firearms out of the hands of abusers," U.S. Attorney Alme said.
Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.
The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)
- 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order
Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges.
For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
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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.
###Covington Man Pleads Guilty to Making a False Declaration in Connection with a BankruptcyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that PENH KANG (“KANG”), age 41, of Covington, Louisiana, entered a plea of guilty on October 6, 2020 to Making a False Declaration, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 152(3).
According to documents filed in federal court, on or about the 12th day of September 2017, in the Eastern District of Louisiana, KANG, knowingly and fraudulently made a material false declaration, certificate and verification under the penalty of perjury, as permitted under Section 1746 of Title 28, in and in relation to a case under Title 11, In re Penh Kang, No.17-12431, by submitting a Schedules of Assets and Liabilities and a Statement of Financial Affairs, in which he fraudulently answered questions, in that KANG failed to disclose gambling losses of approximately $40,000 to $60,000, an interest in two Capital One Bank accounts, and a $50,000 life insurance policy.
KANG faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571.
KANG will be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry on January 5, 2021.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of the U.S. Trustee for the Eastern District of Louisiana with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Supervisor of the Financial Crimes Unit.
Clinton Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARK FELNER, 31, of Clinton, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for engaging in sexual activity with an underage victim in 2015 and 2016, and receiving pornographic images from the minor victim.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on multiple occasions in 2015, Felner, who was 26 at the time, traveled from Connecticut to North Carolina to engage in illegal sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl. In 2015 and 2016, when Felner and the minor victim were not physically together, the victim, at Felner’s instruction, sent pornographic images of herself through social media messaging services.
Felner was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on October 8, 2019. A memory card seized from Felner at the time of his arrest revealed pornographic images that he had received from the minor victim.
On July 15, 2020, Felner pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography.
Felner, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is scheduled to report to prison on January 7, 2021.
Felner will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of his conviction.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New London and East Lyme Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret Donovan and Neeraj Patel.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Chinese Nationals Involved in $1.1 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Two Chinese nationals involved in a $1.1 million fraud scheme involving gift cards, have both pleaded guilty and one has been sentenced for their respective roles in the conspiracy.
According to court documents, Yuchen Zhang, 23, of Manassas, and Shouming Sun, 41, of Herndon, were part of a wire fraud conspiracy in which members of the conspiracy contacted victims by telephone or through social media and assumed fictitious identities. The conspirators falsely claimed to be from the Internal Revenue Service or an employee of a financial institution, and falsely told victims they were entitled to money or under some form of immediate financial threat, such as having their personal identification information compromised by known criminals. The co-conspirators used these ruses and others to trick the victims into purchasing gift cards and then sending to them the gift cards’ redemption codes. The redemption codes allow the gift cards to be redeemed without being in possession of the physical card. Zhang, Sun and others then used the fraudulently obtained redemption codes to purchase goods totaling approximately $1.15 million.
Sun was sentenced today to seven months in prison.
Zhang pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison when sentenced on Feb. 10, 2021. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Robert E. Bornstein, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office Criminal Division; Colonel Edwin C. Roessler Jr, Fairfax County Chief of Police; and J. Russell George, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Trenga accepted the plea and set the sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney William Fitzpatrick and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Viviana Vasiu are prosecuting the cases.
This matter was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office's Transnational Organized Crime Task Force which is composed by FBI agents along with local, state, and federal partners. Significant investigative assistance was provided by the Fairfax County Police Department.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 1:20-cr-226 and Case No. 1:20-cr-113.
Chinese Company’s SoCal Subsidiary Agrees to Pay More Than $1 Million to Resolve Criminal Investigation into Bribe Payments to Jose Huizar and Illegal Contributions to Other Political FiguresRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Chinese company’s Arcadia subsidiary, established to redevelop a downtown Los Angeles hotel, has agreed to pay $1,050,000 to resolve an investigation into the company’s conduct with public officials in the City of Los Angeles, including bribery, honest services fraud, and foreign and conduit campaign contributions.
A three-year non-prosecution agreement (NPA) with Jia Yuan USA Co., Inc. is the latest development in the ongoing investigation into a wide-ranging “pay-to-play” scheme in which developers bribed Los Angeles city officials to secure official acts to benefit their real estate projects.
The China-based Shenzhen Hazens established Jia Yuan to acquire, operate and redevelop the Los Angeles Luxe City Center Hotel, which it purchased in 2014 for more than $100 million. Jia Yuan “planned a massive redevelopment that would include retail space, residential units, and hotel rooms, valued at approximately $700 million,” according to a “statement of facts” accompanying the NPA.
The NPA was executed on Monday and announced today by United States Attorney Nick Hanna and FBI Assistant Director in Charge Kristi Koons Johnson.
Under the NPA, Jia Yuan will pay the monetary penalty within two weeks and will continue to cooperate with the FBI’s ongoing public corruption probe. The NPA also requires the cooperation of Jia Yuan’s parent company, as well as other Hazens subsidiaries in the Los Angeles-area.
The NPA details several reasons why the government agreed not to prosecute the company for three years, as long as it refrains from any criminal conduct. Those reasons include the company’s timely acceptance of responsibility for its conduct; remedial measures, including terminating George Chiang as a consultant and improving its compliance program; robust and timely cooperation with the investigation, which included proactively providing the government with records located in China and in the personal possession of its chairman, as well as making the chairman available for an interview while he was located outside the reach of U.S. law enforcement; and agreeing to continue to cooperate with the United States Attorney’s Office and the FBI as the agencies continue to investigate and prosecute cases that may touch upon the company’s conduct.
The statement of facts outlines Jia Yuan’s conduct in relation to former Los Angeles City Councilmember Jose Huizar, who faces a trial in June on a 34-count racketeering indictment, and real estate development consultant George Chiang, who is scheduled to be sentenced in February after pleading guilty earlier this year to participating in a Huizar-led racketeering enterprise.
In the statement of facts, Jia Yuan admits a series of acts, including:
- a Jia Yuan employee provided Katy Perry concert tickets to Huizar soon after Huizar and “Individual 1” – previously identified as the city’s deputy mayor for economic development – intervened in a compliance issue at a Hazens-owned hotel;
- Jia Yuan employees made campaign contributions to several U.S. political candidates, some of which were later reimbursed by the company at the direction of a foreign national, who was prohibited from participating in U.S. elections;
- Jia Yuan provided in-kind contributions to several U.S. political candidates by hosting reduced-cost fundraising events at the Luxe Hotel, some of which took place at the direction of a foreign national who was prohibited from participating in U.S. elections;
- the chairman of the Hazens companies facilitated an introduction that resulted in a contract that paid indirect bribe payments to Huizar, who, in his official capacity, introduced and voted on a motion to benefit the Luxe Hotel project; and
- Chiang organized a Huizar family trip to China that Hazens partially subsidized.
After receiving all of these benefits, Huizar voted to approve the Luxe Hotel project before the city’s Planning and Land Use Management Committee, which he chaired until shortly after federal agents executed search warrants at his Boyle Heights home and city offices in November 2018.
The statement of facts also details how Chiang and Individual 1 asked the Hazens chairman on several occasions to make a $100,000 contribution to a political action committee established to benefit a Huizar relative who was planning to run for his City Council seat. While the chairman did not authorize the donation, Chiang told Huizar that Hazens would make the $100,000 donation, which prompted Huizar to take additional officials acts to approve the Luxe Hotel project.
The NPA does not preclude or limit the investigation or prosecution of individuals, including any current or former Jia Yuan officer, employee or agent.
The matter involving Jia Yuan and the criminal cases stemming from the investigation are being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Mack E. Jenkins, Chief of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section, and Assistant United States Attorneys Veronica Dragalin and Melissa J. Mills, also of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section.
Any member of the public who has information related to this investigation or any other public corruption matter in the City of Los Angeles is encouraged to send information to the FBI’s tip line at tips.fbi.gov or to contact the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office at (310) 477-6565.
Chemist sent to prison for embezzling millionsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 66-year-old Texas man has been ordered to federal prison after he admitted to wire fraud in his connection to stealing millions from a Deer Park corporation, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
James Arthur Camp, New Braunfels, pleaded guilty June 4.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nancy Atlas ordered Camp to serve a 48-month sentence to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard from the company’s chief legal officer who detailed how Camp was to obtain approval for the fraudulent invoices he submitted. In handing down the sentence, Judge Atlas noted Camp made grievous mistakes in setting up his scheme and letting it get so big for long. The court ordered he pay restitution in the amount of $11,256,712.54.
“For 19 years, Camp took advantage of his employer by embezzling more than $10 million, separate from his paycheck,” said Special Agent in Charge Perrye K. Turner of the FBI. “Today's sentencing demonstrates the ramifications of a man's years-long commitment to greed, deception and selfishness. This case should remind citizens that every action has a consequence, as Camp will now be held accountable for his actions.”
At the time of his plea, Camp admitted that from April 1998 through November 2017, he defrauded Lubrizol Corporation of $9,256,712.54. During the scheme, he submitted fraudulent invoices for laboratory services from two companies he owned, knowing they had not been performed.
Specifically, Camp admitted that one of those fraudulent laboratory charges included one from his company Bay Area Analytical in the amount of $2,774.06. Camp inputted the data into Lubrizol’s accounting system, causing it to be transmitted electronically from Deer Park to company headquarters in Wycliffe, Ohio. That fraudulent charge was then bundled with other similar charges and paid via electronic funds transfer to Bay Area Analytical’s bank account at J P Morgan Chase Bank in the amount of $12,294.23.
Camp was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined later.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Braddock prosecuted the case.