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Thursday 18 June 2020
Wyoming Man Sentenced to Twenty Years for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge announced today that Anthony Michael Assfy, 29, formerly of Wyoming, Michigan, was sentenced by the Hon. Robert J. Jonker to 240 months in federal prison for distributing fentanyl resulting in death. On January 30, 2020, after a three-day trial, a jury found the defendant guilty of six drug trafficking charges: delivery of fentanyl resulting in death, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine, distribution of heroin and crack cocaine (three counts), and possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine.
The evidence at trial demonstrated that on August 29, 2018, Assfy sold fentanyl to a Solon Township resident who used the fentanyl and died. Upon arriving at the overdose scene, detectives from the Kent Area Narcotics Enforcement Team (KANET) found evidence that indicated Assfy was the decedent’s dealer. Law enforcement posed as the victim to set up a purchase of narcotics from Assfy on August 30, 2018. Assfy arrived at the Grand Rapids deal site and was arrested by law enforcement. In addition to the fentanyl that Assfy intended to deliver to the victim, law enforcement discovered another 36 grams of fentanyl and nearly 4 grams of crack cocaine concealed in Assfy’s possession.
After posting bond on his state charges, Assfy continued to deal heroin and crack cocaine until November 2018. He was charged for distributing heroin and crack cocaine to a law enforcement agent on three occasions during this timeframe. On November 13, 2018, law enforcement searched a residence that Assfy used as a deal location and seized another 19 grams of heroin and some crack cocaine, for which Assfy was charged.
“Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 80 – 100 times more potent than morphine and is cheap to produce,” said U.S. Attorney Birge. “All too often, we find fentanyl mixed together with heroin or fentanyl being passed off as heroin in our West Michigan communities. Due to fentanyl’s potency, ingestion is often deadly. Anyone who deals in a deadly drug like fentanyl should understand they face serious federal time in prison.”
This case was investigated by KANET, the Kent County Sheriff’s Department, the Kentwood Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Vito S. Solitro and Joel S. Fauson.
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Vincent Raymond Rios Sentenced to Prison in Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that defendant VINCENT RAYMOND RIOS (Rios) , age 45, from Chalan Pago, Guam was sentenced in the United States District Court of Guam to 27 years imprisonment for Conspiracy to Distribute Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1); 20 years imprisonment for Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute, in violation of 21 U.SC. § 841(a)(1); and 10 years imprisonment for two counts of Money Laundering, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1957. The Court ordered the terms of imprisonment to run concurrently. The Court also ordered five years of supervised release following imprisonment, participation in a 500-hour drug treatment program, and a mandatory $400 assessment fee. In addition, defendants convicted of a federal drug offense may no longer qualify for certain federal benefits.
During October 2016, Special Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) began an investigation after Rios attempted to transfer
$300,000.00 in drug proceeds through a local bank. On November 16, 2016, the U.S. Postal Inspector and Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agents and Task Force Officers intercepted three suspicious packages in the mail. One package contained 18.7 pounds of methamphetamine with a 98% purity level. Further investigation revealed that Rios and Sueann Baker (Baker) traveled to Washington State to purchase the drugs. Rios concealed the drugs in air mattresses, which were then mailed to Guam. When Rios and Baker returned to Guam, they attempted to claim the packages at a local mail box service. Rios further conspired with other people on Guam to distribute the drugs throughout the island.
ATF seized substantial amounts and types of property owned by Rios. This included $1,183,939.00 in cash from safe deposit boxes at Coast360 and Bank of Guam, in addition to $14,745.00 from a Mercedes Benz. The Court also ordered forfeiture of real estate, including an Apusento Gardens condominium and a home in Gloria Circle, Dededo. Both residences were purchased with illegal proceeds of drug trafficking.
U.S. Attorney Anderson stated, “I congratulate our law enforcement partners for the results of their hard work in dismantling this extensive drug trafficking enterprise. This case reflects not only the substantial terms of imprisonment facing drug traffickers. Criminals will also lose all the benefits, in whatever form, related to their illegal activity. The public rightfully deserves protection from this scourge on our island.”
This was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Rosetta L. San Nicolas, Assistant United States Attorney in the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands.
Vermont Man Charged with Traveling to Meet Minor for SexRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Robert McAdam, age 47, of Rutland, Vermont, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with traveling across state lines with the intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The charge in the complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The criminal complaint alleges that, between February 7, 2019 and June 16, 2020, McAdam exchanged text messages with an undercover investigator who was posing as the adult father of a 15-year-old girl. In these exchanges, McAdam discussed his interest in having sex with the girl. In furtherance of this interest, McAdam traveled to New York earlier this month to meet with the undercover officer in person. After this meeting, McAdam arranged to have sex with the minor in a hotel room in Queensbury, New York, to take place on June 16, 2020. On this date, McAdam traveled from Vermont to a predetermined hotel room in Queensbury. Upon arrival to the hotel, McAdam was encountered by law enforcement and arrested.
McAdam initially appeared in court on Monday before United States Magistrate Judge Christian F. Hummel. Following a second hearing held today, Judge Hummel ordered McAdam detained.
The charge filed against McAdam carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, including investigators with the New York State Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Williams.
This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc/.
UVM ER Doctor Indicted for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that a federal grand jury returned an indictment on June 18, 2020, which charged Eike Blohm, 38, of South Burlington, Vermont, with one count of production of child pornography. The indictment also includes notice that, in the event that Blohm is convicted of production of child pornography as charged in the indictment, the government intends to seek forfeiture of real and personal property owned by Blohm. Blohm made his initial appearance in federal court on May 22, 2020. At that hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge John M. Conroy ordered Blohm detained pending trial. The date on which Blohm will be arraigned on the indictment has not been set.
According to court records and proceedings, an employee at the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVM MC) discovered a camera hidden in a unisex employee bathroom in the Emergency Department. Investigators with the Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations (CUSI) recovered the camera and discovered approximately 1,300 videos on the camera. Approximately 900 videos depicted hospital employees in various states of undress in at least two bathrooms at UVM MC. Approximately 21 videos showed a minor child bathing nude at another location, and a number of those videos showed the minor’s genitalia. The child’s identity and the location where the child was filmed are known to law enforcement. In addition, investigators searched Blohm’s iPad pursuant to a search warrant. Investigators found approximately 132 images of child pornography that did not involve the known minor.
U.S. Attorney Christina Nolan emphasized that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. If convicted, Blohm’s sentence will be determined by the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the impact, if any, of any mandatory minimum prison terms applicable to any count of conviction.
U.S. Attorney Nolan commended the efforts of the Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations and Homeland Security Investigations.
Barbara A. Masterson, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont, and James E. Burke IV, Trial Attorney with the Department of Justice’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, are handling the prosecution of Blohm. Lisa B. Shelkrot of Langrock Sperry & Wool, LLP, represents Blohm.
U.S. Attorney Nolan noted that this prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
U.S. Attorney McSwain Announces Charges against Philadelphia Man for Blowing up an ATM and Illegal Possession of a Firearm during ProtestsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that David Elmakayes, 24, of Philadelphia, PA, was charged by criminal complaint with malicious damage of property with an explosive device and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The defendant is currently in federal custody and will make his initial appearance in federal court tomorrow. The government will be seeking the defendant’s detention pending trial on these charges.
Following peaceful protests on May 30, 2020, in response to the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, MN, civil unrest began to unfold in Philadelphia later that day and continued for several days thereafter. Widespread looting, burglary, arson, destruction of property, and other violent acts occurred.
The complaint alleges that on June 3, 2020, at approximately 11:45 p.m., Elmakayes used an explosive device to heavily damage an automated teller machine (ATM) on the sidewalk at 217 East Westmoreland Street in North Philadelphia. When he was arrested a short time later, he had three more explosive devices in his possession, as well as a .32 caliber pistol.
“Blowing up an ATM and illegal firearms possession are not acts of protest against perceived injustice. They are federal felonies and will be treated as such,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “As alleged, Elmakayes tried to take advantage of the unrest in Philadelphia to get away with a violent crime. Now he will face the consequences.”
“It is always disconcerting when individuals take advantage of sensitive situations to destroy property and terrorize our communities,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge John Schmidt, ATF Philadelphia Field Division. “When individuals choose to recklessly put innocent lives in danger, we commit our resources and unique capabilities in working with our law enforcement partners to bring those responsible to justice. This arrest is an example of how a joint effort with the Philadelphia Police Department and the Philadelphia Fire Marshal’s office did exactly that. We will continue to work together to ensure the safety of our citizens.”
If convicted, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum of fifteen years’ imprisonment, three years’ supervised release, and a $500,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Philadelphia Police Department, and the Philadelphia Fire Marshal’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. LaBar
An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Stockton Residents Charged with Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned an indictment today against two Stockton residents, charging them with sexual exploitation of a child, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, between April and June 2020, Jonathan Michael Thornton, 36, and Katherine Leann Herrera, 30, produced images depicting a victim under the age of 10 engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Thornton then distributed the images on a darknet website. Thornton operates a photography business called Thornton Photography. The indictment also charges Thornton with distribution of child pornography.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mira Chernick is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Thornton and Herrera each face a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information.
Two Sentenced for Robbing Two Cell Phone Stores at GunpointRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Chief U.S. District Judge Martin Reidinger sentenced to prison two men responsible for the armed robberies of two cell phone stores located in Buncombe and Henderson Counties, announced Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Joining U.S. Attorney Murray in making today’s announcement is John A. Strong, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, Sheriff Quentin Miller of the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Lowell S. Griffin of the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office, and Chief David Zack of the Asheville Police Department.
Shyleek Vyshonne Davidson, 21, of Hendersonville, N.C. was sentenced to 120 months in prison and five years of supervised release, and Okoye Unique Porter, 26, of Hendersonville, was sentenced to 151 months in prison and three years of supervised release. The third co-defendant, Kristoff Michael Hunter, 25, of Asheville, will be sentenced at a later date.
According to filed documents and statements made in court, the men robbed at gunpoint two cell phone stores located in Asheville and in neighboring Hendersonville. On May 19, 2019, Hunter and Davidson robbed the AT&T wireless store located at 335 Airport Road in Asheville. Court records show that Hunter and Davidson entered the store with their faces covered, pointed a firearm at an employee and ordered him to lie down while they proceeded to steal approximately $200 in cash from the register and at least 26 Samsung and LG phones from the store cabinets.
The next day, on May 20, 2019, at about 9:30 a.m., law enforcement responded to a robbery call made from the Verizon Wireless store located at 1602 Four Seasons Blvd in Hendersonville. Court records show that all three defendants entered the store, brandished firearms at the store employees, and fled with approximately 157 stolen iPhones valued at $147,986, and $311 in cash. Law enforcement arrested the three men the same day, after locating them through a tracking device one of the store employees had slipped in the robbers’ bag.
Porter, Davidson and Hunter pleaded guilty to robbery of businesses affecting interstate commerce, also known as “Hobbs Act” robbery. Davidson and Hunter also pleaded guilty to carrying and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence and aiding and abetting.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Murray thanked the FBI, the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Asheville Police Department for their investigation of this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Pritchard, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville, prosecuted the case.
Twelve Indicted following Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force Investigation into Drug Trafficking in Pittsburgh and BeyondRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Twelve defendants from Allegheny, Lawrence and Westmoreland Counties have been charged with drug trafficking following a months-long wiretap investigation into narcotics trafficking in the City of Pittsburgh and greater Allegheny County region, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. This Indictment is related to a larger investigation into the narcotics trafficking activities of the "11 Hunnit" neighborhood street gang operating in the Hill District neighborhood of Pittsburgh and beyond. A total of 22 defendants have been charged in four separate, but related, indictments stemming from this investigation.
"Every citizen in western Pennsylvania deserves to live in a community free from the violence and devastation created by drug trafficking," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "For too long, the "11 Hunnit" gang has terrorized the law-abiding residents of the City of Pittsburgh and the Hill District. Through the four indictments of 22 members and associates of "11 Hunnit," we have effectively dismantled this gang and its grip on our city."
The Indictment, returned on June 15 and unsealed today, charges the following individuals with conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms grams or more of cocaine, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, from in and around November 2019, and continuing thereafter until in and around June 2020:
• Donald Epps, age 65, of New Kensington, PA;
• Michael Glenn, age 57, Pittsburgh, PA;
• Michael Turner, age 47, of Wampum, PA;
• Gary Wilkinson, age 56, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Dion Williams, age 44, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Ivan Upsher, age 58, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Gerald Bogan Jr., age 39, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Charles King, age 57, of Pittsburgh, PA;
• Jeffrey Brown, age 50, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
• Michael Jones, age 69, of Monessen, PA.
The Indictment additionally charges Defendant Glenn and the following individuals with conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base (in the form commonly known as "crack") in the Western District of Pennsylvania, from in and around November 2019, and continuing thereafter until February 2020:
• Timothy Harris, age 57, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
• Giles Davis, age 60, of Pittsburgh, PA.
With respect to Defendants Epps, Glenn, Turner, Wilkinson, Williams, Upsher, Bogan, King Brown, and Jones, each of whom is charged with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than ten years to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, or both. With respect to Defendants Glenn, Harris and Davis, each of whom is charged with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentences imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Jerome A. Moschetta is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police (Bureau of Narcotics Investigations) led the multi-agency investigation that also included the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office and the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General. This Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty
Three Fort Dodge Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun and Meth ConvictionsRead the Press Release
Three Fort Dodge men who conspired to distribute methamphetamine and illegally possessed stolen firearms were sentenced in federal prison. Osborne and Petersen were sentenced January 28, 2020, and Swan was sentenced on June 18, 2020.
Marcus Swan, 29, pled guilty December 31, 2019, Lucas Osborne, 30, pled guilty August 20, 2019, and Kenneth Petersen, 41, pled guilty on September 10, 2019. Each pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession of stolen firearms.
Evidence showed that together the defendants possessed five guns that were stolen during a burglary in Kossuth County, Iowa. Swan and Petersen were also prohibited from possessing firearms based on their prior felony convictions. Osborne was an unlawful user of methamphetamine and therefore also prohibited from possessing firearms. Additionally, evidence shows that the three distributed methamphetamine from October 2018 through February 2019. In total the methamphetamine conspiracy involved the distribution of over 16 pounds of methamphetamine in and around the Fort Dodge area.
Each were sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Osborne was sentenced to 153 months’ imprisonment and must serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. Petersen was sentenced to 98 months’ imprisonment, with a 4-year term of supervised release following the prison term. Swan was sentenced to 102 months’ imprisonment and a 4-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Each are being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until they can be transported to a federal prison.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mikala Steenholdt and investigated by the Fort Dodge Police Department, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, Kossuth County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-3017. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Two Pennsylvania Women Sentenced for Yellowstone National Park ViolationsRead the Press Release
Federal District Court Magistrate Judge Mark L Carman sentenced TARA L. DAVOLI, age 31, and SARAH A. PIOTROWSKI, age 30, both of Philadelphia for being off trail in a thermal area. The charges stemmed from a June 11, 2020 incident where both women were observed off the boardwalk walking in a thermal area, which resulted in damage to orange bacterial mats at Opal Pool in the Midway Geyser Basin. Multiple witnesses observed the two walking on the feature and confronted them in an effort to get them to stop.
Davoli and Piotrowski each received a sentence of two days imprisonment and were ordered to pay a $350.00 fine and restitution for each in the amount of $106.92 for damages to Opal Pool. They have been banned from Yellowstone National Park for two years and will serve two years unsupervised release. The amount of restitution was based on a damage assessment conducted by the Yellowstone geologist and a thermal research crew.
“The rules in our National Parks are there for a reason - to protect visitors and the natural beauty we all want to experience and enjoy. Just taking a few steps off the boardwalk in a thermal area may seem harmless, but it can really damage the ecosystem and potentially put visitors in danger..” stated United States Attorney Mark A. Klaassen. “We support the National Park Service and Park Rangers who work to enforce these rules so we can all continue to enjoy amazing places like Yellowstone and preserve the park for future generations.”
"We appreciate the support of the Wyoming U.S. Attorney's Office in continuing to help us protect Yellowstone's resources," said Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Cam Sholly. "The successful investigation and prosecution of these types of cases help prevent future degradation of resources committed by irresponsible visitors."
The National Park Service investigated this case.
South Lake Tahoe Man Charged with Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned an indictment today against Timothy Mackey, 39, of South Lake Tahoe, charging him with distribution of child pornography, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, between Feb. 5 and Feb. 26, Mackey distributed visual depictions of children engaging in sexually explicit activity. Mackey worked as a snowboarding instructor and had applied to become a foster parent prior to his arrest.
Anyone who has information related to this case or who believes their child may be a victim can contact the FBI at [email protected].
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mira Chernick is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Mackey faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information.
South Bend, Indiana Woman SentencedRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND – Freda Binder, age 43, of South Bend, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio for distribution of more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Ms. Binder was sentenced to 60 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, on October 23, 2018, Freda Binder agreed to sell methamphetamine. She met with the buyer at her home in South Bend and received $1800 for the methamphetamine. She then told the buyer to meet her at a restaurant on West Western Avenue in South Bend where she gave the buyer four ounces of methamphetamine. On October 29, Ms. Binder again sold four ounces of methamphetamine for $2000, though she directed the buyer to meet at a different location when she delivered the methamphetamine. On November 1, 2018, Ms. Binder again sold four ounces of methamphetamine for $1,000.
This case included Kenneth Sanders, who was sentenced on 2/5/2020 to 120 months, and Maurice Sylvester, who was sentenced to 130 months on 2/13/2020.
This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Laporte County Drug Task Force and Michigan City Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Schaffer.
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Serial Fraudster Sentenced to 87 MonthsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Dharmesh Patel, 31, formerly of Stevens Point, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to 87 months in prison for committing aggravated identity theft and wire fraud. Patel pled guilty to those charges on March 13, 2020.
Patel co-owned and ran the Baymont Inn & Suites Hotel in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. To execute a series of frauds, Patel stole the identity of an individual, J.L., who worked at the hotel. Patel used J.L.’s identity primarily with businesses to obtain merchandise for the Stevens Point hotel, and another hotel he operated, the Baymont Inn & Suites Hotel in Coralville, Iowa. For example, Patel used J.L.’s name and identity to purchase 110 fifty-five inch televisions which were shipped to the Baymont Inn in Stevens Point, but which Patel moved—with other merchandise obtained by fraud—to the Baymont Inn in Iowa. The total loss from Patel’s schemes exceeded $500,000.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson stated that Patel stood out from other white collar defendants because of his lengthy criminal history. Judge Peterson noted that a significant sentence was necessary to specifically deter Patel and to protect the public from his crimes. Judge Peterson stated that Patel’s ongoing criminal behavior and the current scheme to defraud showed that Patel “was a menace.”
The charges against Patel were the result of an investigation conducted by the Stevens Point Police Department, the Coralville, Iowa Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary J. Corey and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea.
Senate Unanimously Confirms Peter M. McCoy Jr. as United States Attorney for the District of South CarolinaRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, South Carolina --- Peter M. McCoy, Jr. has been unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate as the United States Attorney for the District of South Carolina.
“I could not be more proud to be confirmed as U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney McCoy. “Since the Attorney General appointed me in late March, I have watched the remarkable people of this office work through unprecedented times to continue the important work of this office: keeping the people of South Carolina safe. Having the opportunity to lead this office is among the greatest honors of my professional career. I also look forward to my continued work with our federal, state, and local partners, who continue to do amazing work throughout the state. I am thankful to the President for my nomination, the Attorney General for his support of my prior appointment, to Senators Graham and Scott for their recommendation and endorsement, and to my family for their unwavering support.”
As U.S. Attorney, McCoy is the chief federal law enforcement officer responsible for federal criminal prosecutions and civil litigation involving the United States in the District of South Carolina. He supervises an office of approximately 62 Assistant United States Attorneys, 75 support staff, and 18 contract support staff, all of whom are responsible for prosecuting federal crimes affecting the district, including narcotics and firearms cases, gang violence, human trafficking, white-collar crime, securities fraud, public corruption, terrorism, and civil rights violations. The office also defends the United States in civil cases and collects debts owed to the United States.
Immediately prior to his initial appointment as U.S. Attorney on March 30, McCoy was a partner at McCoy and Stokes Law Firm. McCoy also served as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives and focused his legislative work on protecting children and keeping neighborhoods safe.
A Charleston, S.C., resident and graduate of Hampden-Sydney College and Regent University Law School, McCoy spent more than five years as a criminal prosecutor in the Ninth Circuit Solicitor’s Office, handling thousands of crimes involving violence, guns, and drugs. As a legislator, McCoy was the lead sponsor of legislation requiring the mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse as well as legislation establishing a mandatory minimum sentence for anyone who commits a crime while out on bond. He worked to pass statutes that ensure violent repeat criminal offenders do not remain out on bond if they continue to commit crimes.
For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-sc.
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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.
San Bernardino County Man Who Made Threats to Injure Congressional Staffers and Intern Sentenced to One Year in PrisonRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Twentynine Palms man was sentenced today to 12 months and one day in federal prison for making harassing telephone calls to government offices and for threatening to injure congressional staffers and an intern who answered the calls.
Robert Eric Stahlnecker, 48, was sentenced by United States District Judge Stephen V. Wilson.
At a two-day trial in February, a federal jury found Stahlnecker guilty of one count of making threats by interstate commerce and five counts of anonymous telecommunications harassment. The jury acquitted him of two counts of threatening federal employees.
According to the evidence presented at trial, on September 26, 2019, Stahlnecker made eight telephone calls within a seven-minute span to the Washington, D.C., office of Sen. Sherrod Brown of Ohio. During the calls, Stahlnecker berated the intern who answered the call, insulted the intern by using vulgar language and, finally, threatened to come to the senator’s office to kill her.
Between September and November 2019, Stahlnecker made multiple abusive telephone calls to staff members and interns of multiple members of Congress. Stahlnecker made more than 10,000 calls to government agencies and elected officials between January and November of last year, according to court documents. More than half of defendant’s telephone calls in 2019 were to the Veterans Affairs complaint line (3,600 calls) and the two United States senators from California (2,500 calls), court papers state.
Stahlnecker has been in federal custody since his arrest in this case in December 2019.
“Since 2007…Stahlnecker has been convicted five times for verbally abusing and threatening government employees,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memorandum. “The convictions in this case represent a small fraction of defendant’s decade-long campaign to abuse and threaten government employees.”
The United States Capitol Police and the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General investigated this case.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Peter H. Dahlquist and Robert S. Trisotto of the Riverside Branch Office.
Rocky Mount Tax Return Preparer Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy and Filing False Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Rocky Mount, NC woman pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to prepare and file false tax returns.
According to court documents, Bertha Battle, aka “Bug”, 40 years old, conspired with others to file false tax returns for the 2013 through 2016 tax years for clients of Community Tax Services LLC located in Rocky Mount. Battle and her co-conspirators allegedly filed tax returns that claimed false education credits, among other illegitimate items, in order to fraudulently generate clients’ tax refunds. The IRS total loss was 2.2 million dollars. Battle previously pled guilty to similar federal tax charges in 2009.
Battle pleaded guilty today to a conspiracy to prepare and file false tax returns and faces up to five years imprisonment when she is sentenced during the court’s November 2020 term.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Kimberly Swank accepted the plea. The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI) assisted in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan Ontjes is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:19-CR-00077-1FL.
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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.
Rochester Area Psychiatrist Guilty of Health Care FraudRead 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 Muhammad Cheema, MD, 47, of Pittsford, NY, pleaded guilty to health care fraud before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Field, who is handling the case, stated that between 2013 and 2017, Dr. Cheema submitted approximately 5,000 false claims for psychotherapy services that he did not render. Based on these false claims, the defendant obtained payments totaling approximately $218,368 from health care benefit programs, including those operated by Excellus, MPV and others.
The plea is the result of an investigation by Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Robert Guyton, and investigators from the New York State Department of Financial Services-Criminal Investigation Bureau, under the direction of Superintendent Linda Lacewell.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 6, 2020, at 9:15 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.
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Robbinsville Man Is Sentenced to 12 Years for Sexually Abusing A Minor on Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Joseph Dwayne Jumper, 39, of Robbinsville, N.C., was sentenced today to 144 months in prison for the sexual abuse of a minor in Indian Country, announced Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. In addition to the prison term imposed, U.S. District Judge Martin Reidinger also ordered Jumper to serve a lifetime of supervised release, and to register as a sex offender after he is released from prison.
Chief Doug Pheasant, of the Cherokee Indian Police Department, joins U.S. Attorney Murray in making today’s announcement.
According to court documents and today’s sentencing hearing, between July and August 2018, Jumper, who is an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, sexually abused a minor female entrusted in his care. As Jumper previously admitted in court, the defendant sexually abused the victim on multiple occasions. The sexual abuse took place in Graham County, within the boundaries of the Indian reservation.
On January 3, 2020, Jumper pleaded guilty to two counts of abusive sexual contact of a child under 12.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Murray thanked the Cherokee Indian Police Department for their investigation of this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Pritchard, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville, prosecuted the case.
Reno Woman Sentenced for Extortion Scheme Targeting Parents of Missing PersonsRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A Reno, Nevada woman was sentenced today to five years and 10 months in prison for schemes to extort money from parents of two missing persons, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
Rozarri Verion Young, 24, pleaded guilty in August 2018 to two counts of interstate transmission of a threat to injure with intent to extort related to text messages she sent to the mother of a missing Gridley woman and the mother of a missing 16-year-old girl from Aurora, Colorado.
“A person who exploits a family for personal gain during the crisis of a missing child is among the cruelest of criminals,” said Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “The FBI will ensure those who attempt to extort vulnerable families of missing children face justice. To help families of the missing, please continue to share posters found on websites managed by local law enforcement, the FBI, and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.”
According to court documents, a Facebook page was established to aid in the search for a missing Gridley woman that had received significant coverage in local and regional media. Through the page, Young, who was then in Reno, Nevada, acquired the cellphone number of the missing woman’s mother. On April 4, 2017, Young sent a series of text messages to the mother saying to “pay me or she’s dead.” The Gridley woman had last been seen in Yuba City on March 30, 2017. Law enforcement treated this investigation as a kidnapping.
The threats were traced to Young’s phone and the investigation later linked Young to a similar scheme aimed at the mother of a missing 16‑year-old girl from Aurora, Colorado. According to court documents, on April 3, 2017, Young called and sent texts to the girl’s mother offering to give back her daughter if she would send $2,000. The girl has been missing since July 15, 2016.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heiko P. Coppola prosecuted the case.
Raleigh Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years for Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of His Drug SalesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man was sentenced today to 143 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm and possessing with the intent to distribute marijuana, cocaine, crack, and heroin.
Jawone Reginald Bennett, 42, was named in a four-count indictment filed in the Eastern District of North Carolina on April 17, 2019. Count One charged Distribution of a Quantity of Cocaine Base (Crack); Count Two charged Possession with Intent to Distribute a Quantity of Marijuana, Cocaine, and 28 grams or more of Cocaine Base (crack); Count Three charged Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, and Count Four charged Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. On November 27, 2019, pursuant to a written plea agreement, the defendant pled guilty to Counts Two and Four.
Based upon to court documents, in August 2018, a drug investigation began focusing on Bennett after a confidential informant advised the Raleigh Police Department about Bennett being engaged in drug trafficking activities. On August 23, 2018, agents utilized a confidential informant to purchase crack cocaine from Bennett at a local hotel where he was staying. On August 24, 2018, a search warrant was executed on Bennett’s hotel room. Based on the sale of crack cocaine and the search warrant on Bennett’s hotel room, he’s accountable for possessing 59.83 grams of crack cocaine, 28.15 grams of cocaine powder, and 154.62 grams of marijuana. Additionally, Bennett was in possession of two firearms that he used to further his drug tracking sales.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, and the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel W. Smith prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:19-cr-00171-D-1.
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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.
Raleigh Man Arrested for Setting Multiple Fires to Raleigh BusinessesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man was arrested yesterday for setting fires inside two Raleigh businesses after a demonstration over the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina announced.
Richard Rubalcava, of Raleigh, North Carolina, was arrested by special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) and is charged by complaint with two counts of maliciously damaging or destroying, or attempting to damage or destroy, by means of fire or an explosive, any building or other real or personal property affecting interstate or foreign commerce. Rubalcava will make his initial appearance June 19, 2020, by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert T. Numbers, II.
According to the complaint, on May 30, 2020, at approximately 12:13a.m., a fire was discovered at the Dollar General Express located at 149 East Davie Street, Raleigh, after it had been looted by rioters. Video surveillance was obtained from the Dollar General Express. The video shows Rubalcava enter the business and place numerous items in a Dollar General Bag. Rubalcava leaves and re-enters the business numerous times. Each time Rubalcava enters the business, he would steal items from the store. Further video surveillance captured Rubalcava inside the Dollar General Express setting fire to miscellaneous items located on an aisle endcap. Rubalcava appears to exit the store after setting the fire.
Additionally on May 30, 2020, video surveillance from Budacai Restaurant located at 120 East Martin Street, Raleigh, was given to the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) in regards to the restaurant being looted and a fire being set inside. After reviewing the video surveillance, RPD identified one of the subjects that entered the business as Rubalcava. The video surveillance showed Rubalcava entering the restaurant three times. The second time Rubalcava entered he stole the cash register. The third time Rubalcava entered he attempted to set a plant on fire inside the restaurant. After the plant would not ignite, Rubalcava ignited a towel and places the burning towel on a countertop. Surveillance video from both fires shows Rubalcava wearing the same clothing. Rubalcava admitted to RPD officers that he set the fire inside of Budacai Restaurant.
The counts charged in the criminal complaint carry a statutory mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a maximum fine of $250,000.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina credited the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, and the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) with the investigation leading to today’s arrest. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel W. Smith of the of the U.S. Attorney's Office’s Criminal Division.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Raleigh Blood Gang Member Sentenced to 13 Years for Illegally Possessing a Firearm and a Variety of DrugsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh Blood gang member was sentenced today to 156 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm and possessing with the intent to distribute marijuana, cocaine, crack, and heroin.
On December 5, 2019 Brooks Prentice Lesane, 37, was named in a three-count indictment filed in the Eastern District of North Carolina. Count One charged Possession With Intent to Distribute a Quantity of Marijuana, a Quantity of Cocaine, a Quantity of Cocaine Base (Crack), and a Quantity of Heroin; Count Two charged Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Count Three charged Possession of a Firearm by a Felon on May 2, 2019. On March 16, 2020, pursuant to a written plea agreement, the defendant pled guilty to Counts One and Two.
Based upon court documents, on May 2, 2019, the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) began an investigation into the drug trafficking activities of Lesane, a known felon, after a confidential informant positively identified Lesane as trafficking various controlled substances, including marijuana, heroin, and cocaine base (crack), from his residence and throughout Raleigh. A search warrant was then executed at Lesane’s residence. RPD officers seized a 9mm handgun loaded with 9 rounds of ammunition, 19.42 grams of crack, 46.03 grams of heroin, 252.77 grams of marijuana, 20.43 grams of fentanyl mixed with heroin, and 8.97 grams of cocaine with a converted drug weight of 168.5 kilograms.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, and the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel W. Smith prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:19-cr-00486-D-1.
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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.
Queens Man Charged in Connection with Arson of an NYPD Vehicle in ManhattanRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, John B. DeVito, the Special Agent-in-Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”), Dermot Shea, the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), and Daniel A. Nigro, the Commissioner of the New York City Fire Department (“FDNY”), announced today the arrest of VICTOR A. SANCHEZ-SANTA in connection with his attempts to destroy a police car in midtown Manhattan. SANCHEZ-SANTA was arrested this morning and will be presented in Manhattan federal court before U.S. Magistrate James L. Cott later today.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman stated: “As alleged, the defendant selected a clearly marked NYPD vehicle, walked up beside it, started a fire under the vehicle, and fled the scene. In allegedly doing so, he maliciously targeted law enforcement. Arson is also a threat to more than its immediate victim, with the potential to destroy and terrify far beyond the place where a fire is set. We have the quick response of members of the NYPD, FDNY, and ATF to thank for controlling the fire and identifying the defendant so he can face the significant charge for his alleged crime.”
ATF Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito said: “The use of fire as a weapon places our communities at risk and greatly endangers our citizens. ATF and our partners will vigorously investigate and bring those responsible to justice by means of the Strategic Explosive Arson Response (SEAR) Task Force.”
NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said: “Torching an NYPD vehicle, as alleged, is not just an isolated crime but a threat to all New Yorkers. The hard work of our detectives and law enforcement partners in this case ensures there will be justice.”
Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro said: “Arson is a callous act that senselessly puts the lives of New Yorkers and first responders in danger. The excellent teamwork of our Fire Marshals, the NYPD, and ATF continues to seek justice against those who use fire to harm others and destroy property.”
According to the allegations in the Complaint[1]:
On June 9, 2020, at approximately 1:20 a.m., SANCHEZ-SANTA stopped his car beside a marked NYPD vehicle on West 42nd Street in Manhattan. He got out of his car, took a cloth glove in his hand and held the glove to a flame until it ignited. He then put the burning glove underneath the NYPD vehicle, and got back into his car, leaving the glove burning beneath the police car.
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SANCHEZ-SANTA, 19, of Queens, New York, is charged with one count of arson, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of the Strategic Explosive and Arson Response Task Force of the ATF, the NYPD, and the FDNY.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Josiah Pertz is in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint, and the description of the Complaint set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Pittsburgh Man Named in PFA Indicted for Threats Made via Text and Phone CallsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – A resident of Allegheny County has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of transmitting threats in interstate commerce, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count Indictment, returned on June 9, named William Jackson, age 48, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, on August 2, 2019, Jackson sent a text message to an individual threatening to harm that individual; made a telephone call to the individual stating that he intended to kill one of the individual’s children; and made a telephone call to the individual stating that he intended to injure the individual’s parents. According to state court records, the target of Jackson’s threats had an active Protection from Abuse order against the defendant.
"One of my highest priorities is the investigation and prosecution of federal crimes related to domestic violence, including firearms violence and cyberstalking," said U.S. Attorney Brady, who has been a member of Attorney General William Barr’s Domestic Violence Working Group since June of 2019. "Abusers beware: I will use the tools of federal prosecution to stop and prevent domestic violence and to keep victims safe from abuse. I also want to thank the Bridgeville Police Department for actively pursuing this defendant’s conduct and bringing this case to our attention."
The law provides for a total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a $750,000 fine, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bridgeville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pekin, Ill., Couple Indicted on Charges of Child Sexual ExploitationRead the Press Release
PEORIA, Ill. – A grand jury this week returned indictments charging Rachel Miller, 28, and Sebastian Sale, 29, both of the 1400 block of Summit Dr., Pekin, Ill., with alleged sexual exploitation of minors. Both were previously arrested and charged in criminal complaints and were ordered detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Miller is charged with two counts of production of child pornography. The indictment alleges that in March 2019, Miller used a cell phone to send images of herself engaging in sexual activity with a prepubescent male. In January 2020, the indictment alleges Miller used a cellphone to send a video of an adult engaged in sexual activity with a minor child.
Sale is charged with one count of attempted production of child pornography in June 2019, three counts of distribution and one count of possession of child pornography.
If convicted, for each count of production and attempted production of child pornography, the statutory penalty is 15 to 30 years in prison. For each count of distribution and possession of child pornography, the maximum penalty is 20 years in prison
The charges are the result of an investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations and the Washington, Ill., Police Department.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation; each defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a Department of Justice initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Ormond Beach Man Indicted for Threatening A Member of CongressRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida– United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging James Lapin (34, Ormond Beach) with threatening to assault and murder an elected member of the United States House of Representatives. If convicted, Lapin faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, on or about December 20, 2019, Lapin threatened to assault and murder an elected Representative of the United States House of Representatives (“Member of Congress”) by sending a communication to the Member of Congress’s District of Columbia office. The communication contained a threat to injure the congressional member, specifically indicating that the individual needed to wear a “bullet proof [vest]” and that the Member of Congress would be “dead.”
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the United States Capitol Police, with assistance from the Ormond Beach Police Department and the United States Marshals Service. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sean P. Shecter.
Operation Free Market Update: Michigan Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Michigan man pled guilty to a federal drug charge, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Gary Jerome Johnson, also known as Sosa, 29, pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl.
“Fentanyl is the leading cause of drug death in West Virginia. It is a devastating drug that has devastated too many of our families,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Out-of-state drug dealers have caused enough harm in West Virginia. This is another out of state drug dealer headed to prison.”
Johnson admitted that on May 2, 2019, he was a passenger in a vehicle that was pulled over for a traffic stop in Huntington. After learning that Johnson was wanted out of Michigan for absconding from parole, he was placed under arrest and taken to the West Virginia State Police detachment in Huntington for processing. A Trooper found approximately 16 grams of fentanyl in his cruiser. Johnson admitted he intended to sell the controlled substance.
Johnson faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on September 21, 2020.
Operation Free Market was a long-term drug investigation in the Huntington area. The investigation was the result of a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West. It was part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS), a Department of Justice program that seeks to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas and to identify wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers.
The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
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Omaha Man Sentenced to 84 Months for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Mark H. King, 57, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha for distribution of child pornography. United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced King to 84 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal prison system. After his release from prison, King will serve a 7-year term of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender. King was also ordered to pay $18,000 in restitution.
In February 2019 investigators with Homeland Security Investigations identified a Northwest Omaha residence uploading child pornography onto a blogging website. Agents went to the residence and had contact with King, who admitted to viewing child pornography on the internet and chatting with others on the internet who shared child pornography. Agents seized King’s cell phone and computer and located at least 588 images and 14 video files depicting child pornography, including videos of adult males raping infants and toddlers. The devices also contained evidence of King sharing child pornography with others.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.
Omaha Gang Member Sentenced for Attempted Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on June 15, 2020, Tevonta Reair Tiller, age 23, of Omaha, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Robert W. Pratt for Attempted Armed Bank Robbery. Tiller was sentenced to 94 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.
On the morning of January 25, 2019, two individuals, with their faces partially covered, entered the outer doors of the Cobalt Credit Union in Council Bluffs. A man carried a pistol and Tevonta Tiller carried a large bag. After opening the doors of the Credit Union, they could not get inside the lobby because the inner doors of the vestibule were locked. Tiller and his accomplice then left the scene and returned to their stolen vehicle. They drove across the street from the Credit Union, abandoned the vehicle, and disappeared. Law enforcement searched the vehicle and found evidence that identified Tiller, a known member of the Bloods gang in Omaha.
This case was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Papillion Police Department, La Vista Police Department K-9 Unit, and the Great Plains Violent Crimes Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison on Federal Drug ChargeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Columbus, Ohio man was sentenced to federal prison for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Darrell Gossett, 34, was sentenced to 70 months in prison and four years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“Hundreds of grams of illicit drugs and another out-of-state drug dealer,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “The drugs and the out-of-state drug dealer are now off our streets and the dealer is headed to federal prison for many years. The people of West Virginia are surely safer as a result of cases like this.”
Gossett previously admitted that on November 6, 2019, he possessed more than 250 grams of methamphetamine hidden inside his vehicle. Investigators were approaching 2403 Whitman Creek Road in Whitman to investigate possible drug activity when Gossett quickly backed out of the location, striking a police cruiser. A subsequent search of his vehicle led to the seizure of the methamphetamine. Gossett admitted that he planned on selling the methamphetamine.
The Logan County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Nowles Heinrich handled the prosecution.
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Nurse Pleads Guilty to Stealing Fentanyl from HospitalRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Overland Park, Kansas, nurse pleaded guilty in federal court today to stealing fentanyl from a hospital pharmacy.
Julie Lynne Grant, 50, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes to one count of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud.
Grant was a registered nurse who worked at the Hospital Corporation of America Midwest Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri, at the time of the offense.
By pleading guilty today, Grant admitted that she ordered a compounded fentanyl intravenous (IV) bag from the HCA RMC pharmacy on April 4, 2019. Grant, using another name, falsely told the pharmacy that a patient’s fentanyl IV bag had run dry and another bag was needed. Grant picked up the IV bag shortly afterward, signing a false name on the pharmacy delivery signature receipt page to conceal her true identity. However, a pharmacist recognized the patient’s name because he had delivered a fentanyl IV bag for the patient an hour earlier. The pharmacist became suspicious and checked on the patient. He saw the fentanyl IV bag he had previously delivered was still at the patient’s bedside. He confronted Grant, who claimed it was a mistake, and they returned the fentanyl IV bag to the pharmacy.
According to today’s plea agreement, HCA RMC staff immediately started an internal investigation. The tamper seal over the IV port of the fentanyl bag was torn, and the patient sticker label on the IV bag was slightly wrinkled as if the bag had been squeezed. Grant refused to take a drug screening test and was sent home and subsequently terminated. The investigation revealed that Grant had tampered with the fentanyl IV bag when she extracted the controlled substance from the bag and later replaced an unknown liquid back into the IV bag in an effort to conceal her theft of fentanyl.
The investigation also revealed that Grant had received another fentanyl IV from the pharmacy for another patient at about 8 p.m. the night before, approximately an hour after her shift ended. This fentanyl IV bag was ultimately logged in and purportedly used on another patient by the ICU nursing staff. This patient was intubated and unable to communicate whether he/she received any relief from the fentanyl IV. The patient passed away on April 4, 2019.
Grant started working at Olathe Medical Center as a part-time RN on April 29, 2019. When Grant submitted her employment application, Grant omitted her prior employment at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, St. Joseph Medical Center, and HCA Midwest Research Medical Center under the previous employment section. On May 20, 2019, through their normal reporting mechanisms, Olathe Medical Center identified possible suspicious activity regarding Grant’s dispensation of medication. Grant ultimately admitted to tampering with a fentanyl IV bag while working at HCA Midwest Health Research Medical Center. Grant was terminated on May 31, 2019, for failing to provide a complete list of previous employers on her employment application. Law enforcement obtained a hair sample from Grant, which tested positive for the presence of fentanyl and hydrocodone.
Today’s plea agreement also cites Grant’s suspicious behavior with controlled substances at other facilities where she had previously worked, including HCA Overland Park Regional Medical Center, AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, and St. Joseph Medical Center.
Under federal statutes, Grant is subject to a sentence of up to four years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations and the Johnson County, Kan., Sheriff’s Department.
North Kingstown Man Charged with Transferring Obscene Material to a MinorRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A North Kingstown man made an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Providence on Wednesday, arrested by members of the Providence FBI Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force on a federal criminal complaint charging him with transfer of obscene material to a person under sixteen.
It is alleged that Neil Streich, 57, transferred obscene images of himself to a person he believed to be a 10-year-old girl.
It is alleged in court documents that for approximately three months Streich communicated online with an individual he believed to be a 10-year-old girl from Pennsylvania. During those communications he requested that the girl provide him with images to show that she was, in fact, a 10-year-old girl as she described to him. Three days after receiving a non-sexually explicit image from the purported 10-year-old, it is alleged that Streich began transmitting obscene images of himself to the girl.
The person Streich allegedly communicated with was, in fact, an undercover FBI Special Agent.
At the time of Streich’s arrested, FBI agents, with the assistance of North Kingstown Police and the United States Marshals Service, executed a court-authorized search of Streich’s residence and seized electronic devices allegedly owned by Streich. A preliminary forensic examination of the devices alleged revealed the online application and username used by Streich to communicate with the purported 10-year-old girl.
A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Streich appeared on Wednesday before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan and was released on unsecured bond.
Neil Streich’s arrest and initial appearance is announced by United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman and Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division Joseph R. Bonavolonta.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. McAdams.
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Nine Additional Defendants Arrested as Part of A Long-Standing Drug Trafficking Ring; Over A Kilogram of Deadly Fentanyl, an Illegal FIrearm, and over $200,000 Cash SeizedRead 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 nine defendants were arrested and charged in a criminal complaint for their roles in a large and long standing illegal narcotics ring operating in Western New York. Charged with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute, and distributing, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, one kilogram or more of heroin, and five kilograms or more of cocaine are:
• Jose Roman Jr.;
• Peter Pacheco;
• Xavier Gonzalez;
• Nathaniel Claudio;
• Isiah Claudio;
• Phillip Coleman;
• Angel Ortiz, a/k/a "Peewee;"
• Hector Rivera-Torres; and
• Luis Ortiz, a/k/a Luis Ortiz-Rivera.Assistant U.S. Attorney Everardo Rodriguez, who is handling the case, stated that according to the filed complaint, since 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Rochester Police Department, the Greece Police Department, New York State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives began investigating the illegal narcotics trafficking activities of the defendants who are responsible for the distribution of large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine in Rochester.
On June 18, 2020, investigators executed search warrants at 12 residences in Rochester, and on one car associated with the defendants. During the execution of those search warrants, they seized over one kilogram of fentanyl, approximately $200,000 in cash, a firearm, scales, and materials used to process and package illegal narcotics for resale.
“For the second time since the pandemic began, hundreds of law enforcement officers risked their own well-being and set out early this morning to take down nine more defendants whose sole goal is to profit from the sale of deadly narcotics in the Rochester area,” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “As a result of the brave investigative efforts of our law enforcement partners, the illegal activities of a total of 26 dangerous drug peddling defendants have come to an end in our community.”
DEA Special Agent-in-Charge Ray Donovan stated, “A local investigation turned into one of the largest drug takedown in Rochester history. This criminal network was a major threat to the quality of life in Rochester by trafficking millions of dollars-worth of fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin into Rochester and surrounding areas. Twenty-eight members of the organization have been charged as a result of a collaborative law enforcement effort focused on saving lives by decreasing drug use, overdoses, and drug-related violence.”
On April 30, 2020, investigators executed search warrants at 24 residences in Rochester, West Henrietta, Penfield, Greece, Irondequoit, and Syracuse, and on 12 cars associated with defendants who were previously arrested. During the execution of those search warrants, they seized eight firearms; approximately 3.5 kilograms of fentanyl; and approximately two kilograms of cocaine and crack cocaine. In addition, investigators seized $928,400 in cash and over $500,000 worth of jewelry.
The nine defendants arrested and charged today brings the total number of defendants arrested in a larger investigation to 28. Eight of the defendants made initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen. A ninth defendant was arrested in Puerto Rico and will appear before a magistrate judge there.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Rochester Resident Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ray Donovan, New York Field Division; the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief La’Ron Singletary; the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eric Laughton; the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Patrick Phelan; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito; the U.S. Marshal Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina; the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter; the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Kevin Henderson; and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, under the direction of Acting Commissioner Anthony J. Annucci. Additional assistance was provided by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Buffalo and Syracuse Resident Offices.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Nigerian Businessman Pleads Guilty to $11 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Nigerian entrepreneur who operated a group of companies known as the Invictus Group pleaded guilty today to a computer based intrusion fraud scheme that caused $11 million in losses to his victims.
According to court documents, Obinwanne Okeke, 32, and other conspirators engaged in a conspiracy from approximately 2015 to 2019 to conduct various computer based frauds. The conspirators obtained and compiled the credentials of hundreds of victims, including victims in the Eastern District of Virginia and elsewhere. As part of the scheme, Okeke and others engaged in an email compromise scheme targeting Unatrac Holding Limited, the export sales office for Caterpillar heavy industrial and farm equipment. In April 2018, a Unatrac executive fell prey to a phishing email that allowed conspirators to capture login credentials. The conspirators sent fraudulent wire transfer requests and attached fake invoices. Okeke participated in the effort to victimize Unatrac through fraudulent wire transfers totaling nearly $11 million, which funds were transferred overseas.
Okeke pleaded guilty to a conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Okeke faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison when sentenced on October 22. 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, and Martin Culbreth, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert J. Krask accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Samuels and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Mattis are prosecuting the case.
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. 4:19-cr-084
Niagara Falls Woman Sentenced for Her Role in Cocaine ConspiracyRead 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 Katherine Dejesus-Gonzalez, 36, of Niagara Falls, NY, who was convicted of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who handled the case, stated that between October 2017 and July 19, 2018, the defendant conspired with Edgar Joel Jimenez-Rodriguez, Jose Garcia-Santiago, and others to sell cocaine. On May 26, 2018, the New York State Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle being driven by co-conspirator Jose Garcia-Santiago. Dejesus-Gonzalez was a passenger. Troopers seized five kilograms of cocaine from the vehicle.
In addition, investigators intercepted conversations involving the defendant facilitating drug trafficking activities with her co-conspirators. In September 2017, the U.S. Postal Service intercepted packages arriving from Puerto Rico which were addressed to various residences in Niagara Falls. Postal inspectors seized approximately five kilograms of cocaine that were intended for the defendant and her co-conspirators. One of the packages was addressed directly to the defendant’s home address. Another was addressed to the home of Garcia-Santiago.
Edgar Joel Jimenez-Rodriguez and Jose Garcia-Santiago were previously convicted.The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ray Donovan, New York Field Division; the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent Thomas Licata; and the New York State Police Community Narcotics Enforcement Team (CNET), under the direction of Lieutenant Kevin Reyes and Major Mary Clark.
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New Haven Man Sentenced for Possessing Firearms in StamfordRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOEL CRUZ-BERRIOS, also known as “Krack,” 23, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to approximately 15 months of imprisonment, time already served, and three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing firearms.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2019, Cruz-Berrios arranged to trade firearms with an individual in Stamford. On January 22, 2019, Stamford Police officers arrested Cruz-Berrios, Nyejire Redmond and Victor Berrios-Sanchez after they traveled from New Haven to a parking garage in Stamford. At the time the arrests, Berrios-Sanchez possessed a loaded .22 caliber revolver, a .25 caliber semi-automatic handgun and three .25 caliber rounds of ammunition, and Redmond possessed a loaded .45 caliber automatic handgun that had been reported stolen in New Britain in December 2018. Redmond was sitting in the backseat of the vehicle next to a sleeping, unrestrained child who was approximately two years old.
Cruz-Berrios has three prior convictions, and he was on probation from a prior felony conviction when he was arrested in this case.
Cruz-Berrios has been detained in state custody since March 13, 2019. On November 4, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of firearm by a convicted felon.
Redmond previously pleaded guilty to possessing a stolen firearm and, on April 16, 2020, was sentenced to approximately 15 months of imprisonment, time served. Berrios-Sanchez, of New Haven, pleaded guilty in state court to firearm offenses and was sentenced to 31 months of incarceration.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Stamford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria del Pilar Gonzalez.
This prosecution has been brought through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Murray County man pleads guilty to producing child pornographyRead the Press Release
ROME, Ga. - Daniel Strickland has pleaded guilty to producing child pornography of two minors in his care. A federal grand jury had indicted Strickland in November 2019.
“Strickland produced child pornography of children under his supervision,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “By bringing this perpetrator to justice, we hope this will be at least a small step toward the victims living a normal life.”
“Much of our success in bringing defendants like this to justice is because of our partnerships with local and state law enforcement agencies like the Murray County Sheriff Office,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. ‘We will never relax our combined resources when it comes to protecting a vulnerable and defenseless child.”
“It is of the utmost importance of the Murray County Sheriff’s Office to provide safety and security to each and every one of our citizens, especially our children,” said Murray County Sheriff Gary Langford.
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges, and other information presented in court: The Murray County, Georgia, Sheriff's Office and the FBI learned in February 2019, that Strickland had allegedly abused a minor girl who was under his care. A subsequent investigation revealed that Strickland took sexually explicit photos of this minor girl, and another minor girl, that he previously babysat. In July 2019, Strickland pleaded guilty to two counts of child molestation arising from these incidents in Murray County Superior Court.
Daniel Strickland, 46, of Chatsworth, Georgia, pleaded guilty to two counts of producing child pornography before U.S. District Court Judge Steven D. Grimberg. Under the terms of Strickland’s plea agreement, the government and Strickland are recommending that the Court impose a sentence of between 20 and 25 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for September 16, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.
Anyone with information, or who may have been a victim in this case, please contact the Murray County Sheriff’s Office 706-695-4592 or the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 770-216-3000.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Murray County Sheriff’s Office are investigating this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alex R. Sistla and Nicholas Hartigan are prosecuting the case.
This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In February 2006, the Attorney General launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices around the country, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Murderer of Virginia State Police Special Agent Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Weems man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for his illegal possession of a firearm that was used to kill Virginia State Police Special Agent Michael Walter in May 2017.
“As a front line law enforcement officer protecting the citizens of Virginia, Special Agent Walter risked his life to protect the people of Richmond,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “From his time as a United States Marine who participated in Operation Desert Storm, to his many years as a veteran Virginia State Police Special Agent, and as the founder of the non-profit youth Blackhawk wrestling program, Special Agent Walter’s life was one of service. As a loving husband and father to his three children, Special Agent Walter was loved, adored, and idolized by his friends, family, and by all that knew him. Due to Travis Ball’s selfish and brutal crime, the Walter family, the Virginia State Police, and the Commonwealth of Virginia will never be the same. At a time of unprecedented and appropriate focus on interactions between individuals and law enforcement, we must not lose sight of the ultimate sacrifice given by the good and honorable law enforcement officers, and their surviving loved ones, who protect and serve for the rest of us.”
According to court documents, on May 26, 2017, Travis Ball, 30, shot and killed Special Agent Walter during a traffic stop in the Mosby Court public housing community in Richmond. At the time of the murder, Ball possessed a FIE, model Titan, .25 caliber, semi-automatic pistol. Believing that he was wanted in Lancaster County for a probation violation, Ball resisted arrested and shot Special Agent Walter once in the head. Text messages found on Ball’s cellphone later revealed that two days prior to the murder he told his girlfriend he was not going back to jail and would “end up killing something.” On May 27, 2017, Special Agent Walter died from the gunshot wound inflicted by Ball.
The sentence imposed in this case will run consecutive to the 36 year sentence for capital murder that Ball received in the City of Richmond Circuit Court related to the murder of Special Agent Walter.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erik S. Siebert and Stephen E. Anthony prosecuted the case.
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. 3:19-cr-128.
Modesto Methamphetamine Dealers Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Being an Illegal Alien in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned an indictment today against Raymond Rodriguez, 72, and Rigoberto Guerra-Salcedo, 54, charging them with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possessing a firearm while being an alien unlawfully in the United States, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, Rodriguez sold kilogram quantities of methamphetamine to a confidential informant working for law enforcement in 2019 and 2020. A covert investigation determined that Guerra-Salcedo was supplying methamphetamine to Rodriguez. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement officers followed Guerra-Salcedo as he delivered wholesale amounts of methamphetamine to Rodriguez.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Team (TRIDENT), the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Lee is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Rodriguez and Guerra-Salcedo face a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Minnesota Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Iowa Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced June 17, 2020, to more than 2 years in federal prison.
Emmanuel Fuentes, 35, from Madelia, Minnesota, received the prison term after a December 30, 2019, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that from July 2019 through August 2019, Fuentes was involved in the distribution of more than 150 grams of pure methamphetamine. In two separate investigative operations, in July and August 2019, law enforcement seized more than ten ounces of methamphetamine from Fuentes.
Fuentes was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Fuentes was sentenced to 31 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Fuentes is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-4053. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Michigan Man Sentenced to Prison for Selling MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Pontiac, Michigan man was sentenced to 46 months in prison and three years of supervised release for selling methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Milik Robinson, 23, previously admitted that on August 19, 2019 he sold an ounce of methamphetamine to a confidential informant behind a residence located at 915 Washington Avenue in Huntington.
“It’s a constant theme - out of state drug dealer in West Virginia selling drugs to our good people, causing havoc and pain, and, too often, worse,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “There is another constant theme - out of state drug dealer arrested in the Southern District of West Virginia and headed to federal prison.”
The Cabell County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews and USAttyStuart
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Michigan Man Arrested for 2014 Hack of UPMC HR Databases and Theft of Employees’ Personal InformationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – The man who allegedly hacked the human resource databases of University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and stole PII of over 65,000 UPMC employees was arrested Tuesday morning in Detroit, Michigan, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. Justin Sean Johnson was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft associated with the 2014 hack of UPMC. Johnson is alleged to have then sold employees’ Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and W-2 information on the dark web, resulting in the filing of thousands of false IRS tax returns.
The 43-count indictment, returned on May 20 and unsealed today, named Justin Sean Johnson, a/k/a "TDS", a/k/a "DS", 29, originally from Michigan. Johnson made an initial appearance yesterday in Federal Court in the Eastern District of Michigan. The government intends to seek the detention of the defendant pending trial.
"Justin Johnson stands accused of stealing the names, Social Security numbers, addresses and salary information of every employee of Pennsylvania’s largest health care system," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "After his hack, Johnson then sold UPMC employees’ PII to buyers around the world on dark web marketplaces, who in turn engaged in massive campaign of further scams and theft. His theft left over 65,000 victims vulnerable to years of potential financial fraud. Hackers like Johnson should know that our office will pursue you relentlessly until you are in custody and held accountable for your crimes."
"Investigating identity theft and refund fraud cases is a priority for our office," said Tom Fattorusso, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. "Unfortunately, through no fault of their own, the people whose identities are stolen in cases like this are often victimized repeatedly. Initially, they have to deal with the stress of knowing their personal information was stolen. Criminals then use the stolen information to file false tax returns, or they sell it to other criminals who use it to file false returns. This causes a hardship for the innocent victims when they try to file their own tax returns. Victims are then left to deal with credit issues caused by the unscrupulous actions of the criminals."
"This case is another example of the commitment of the U.S. Secret Service, IRS-Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and our other law enforcement partners to investigate and bring to justice individuals who commit complex cyber fraud", said Timothy Burke, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Secret Service, Pittsburgh Field Office. "The healthcare sector has become an attractive target of cyber criminals looking to update personal information for use in fraud; the Secret Service is committed to detecting and arresting those that engage in crimes against our Nation’s critical systems for their own profit."
"This investigation was an excellent example of a partnership between law enforcement agencies, working together to bring down a nationwide fraud conspiracy. I fully commend the hard work and countless hours put forth by all of the law enforcement agencies involved, which resulted in bringing this individual and the other co-defendants in this case to justice," stated James Giehl, Acting Inspector in Charge.
According to the Indictment, Johnson, using a dark web moniker identified by an acronym in the Indictment as "TDS" or "DS" in 2014 infiltrated and "hacked" into the human resource server databases at UPMC in January 2014, and stole sensitive PII and W-2 information belonging to tens of thousands of UPMC employees. The information was sold by Johnson on dark web forums for use by conspirators, who promptly filed hundreds of false form 1040 tax returns in 2014 using UPMC employee PII. These false 1040 filings claimed hundreds of thousands of dollars of false tax refunds, which they converted into Amazon.com gift cards, which were then used to purchase Amazon merchandise which was shipped to Venezuela.
Additionally, the indictment alleges that Johnson, since 2014 through 2017, as TDS or DS, regularly sold other PII to buyers on dark web forums, which could be used to commit identity theft and bank fraud.
The scheme resulted in approximately $1.7 million in false tax return refunds.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 for the conspiracy to defraud the United States; 20 years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 for each count of wire fraud, and a mandatory 24 months in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 for each count of aggravated identity theft. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Agents from the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty and is Sentenced for Felony Illegal Re-Entry after Previous DeportationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced today that NAZARIO CRUZ-MUNOZ, age 35, was sentenced on June 10, 2020 on a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) by U. S. District Judge Ivan Lemelle.
According to the indictment, NAZARIO CRUZ-MUNOZ (“CRUZ”), reentered the United States after he was previously deported on July 23, 2015. CRUZ faced a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment. CRUZ pled guilty as charged to the indictment and was sentenced on the same date to credit for time served. He has been detained since January 28, 2020. He will be turned over to federal immigration authorities for deportation back to Mexico.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Louisiana State Police and United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.
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Merrillville Woman Indicted for Mail FraudRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Dina Al-Sbeihi, 36, of Merrillville, Indiana, was charged by way of an Indictment with three counts of mail fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to documents in the case, it is alleged that between July 2015 and August 2019, Al-Sbeihi engaged in a scheme to defraud consumers by selling counterfeit medical devices, namely counterfeit Juverderm and Restalyne. Juvederm and Restalyne are prescription dermal fillers that are injected into the skin and are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The Indictment alleges that Al-Sbeihi imported counterfeit Juvederm and Restalyne products from foreign manufacturers located in the People’s Republic of China and elsewhere. The counterfeit products were packaged and branded to look like authentic Juvederm and Restalyne products. These foreign-made dermal fillers had not been approved by the FDA and, as a result, the safety and efficacy of the products were unknown.
According to the Indictment, Al-Sbeihi sold these counterfeit products through her retail company The Beauty Pharmacy falsely representing them to be genuine. Al-Sbeihi used the U.S. Mails to ship the counterfeit products to her customers. It is alleged that Al-Sbeihi earned more than $260,000 from consumers by selling counterfeit Juverderm and Restalyne products to customers in the United States.
“The importing of counterfeit medical devices and selling them as legitimate creates a great concern for the public purchasing these counterfeit products,” said U.S. Attorney Kirsch. “Consumers have a right not to be misled in the manner alleged in this case. I want to thank the law enforcement agencies that investigated this case.”
“Distributing medical devices of unknown origin and components instead of FDA-approved devices places the U.S. public health at risk,” said Lynda M. Burdelik, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Chicago Field Office. “We will aggressively pursue and bring to justice those who attempt to subvert FDA requirements, which are designed to ensure the safety and quality of devices distributed to American consumers.”
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abizer Zanzi.
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Man charged with attempted sexual coercion of Columbia County minorRead the Press Release
AUGUSTA, GA: A Florida man has been arraigned in U.S. District Court on charges related to his alleged attempts to coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity.
Gordon T. Cooper, 46, of Clermont, Fla., appeared in a virtual hearing before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Brian K. Epps regarding his indictment on charges of Attempted Coercion and Enticement, and Transfer of Obscene Matter to a Minor, said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. The maximum penalty for the charges are up to life in prison and substantial fines and penalties, followed by a registration as a sex offender and a period of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Our law enforcement partners remain vigilant in monitoring cyber traffic for predators targeting vulnerable citizens, especially children,” said U.S. Attorney Christine. “Likewise, our office continues to be aggressive in prosecuting those found responsible for illegal online activities.”
According to court documents and testimony, the investigation began when the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was alerted by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about online traffic targeting a minor who resides in Columbia County. The messages were attempting to induce the minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and shared obscene material with the minor. GBI investigators monitoring the messages identified and arrested Cooper.
“This indictment illustrates the great work of law enforcement to investigate and prosecute crimes against children,” said Vic Reynolds, Director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. “The GBI is committed to working with our local, state, and federal partners to ensure that child sexual exploitation cases are aggressively pursued.”
Criminal indictments contain only charges; defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This investigation took place under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood (PSC). The case is being investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorney and PSC Coordinator Tara M. Lyons.
Man Convicted of Intent to Distribute Cocaine to Johnston County Sentenced to More Than 19 YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Miami, Florida man was sentenced to 235 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute five (5) kilograms or more of Cocaine and Possession with the Intent to Distribute of five (5) kilograms or more of Cocaine.
Julio Rodriguez-Diaz, 50, was named in an Indictment filed on February 19, 2020 charging him with Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute five (5) kilograms or more of Cocaine and Possession with the Intent to Distribute five (5) kilograms or more of Cocaine. On March 5, 2020, after a four-day trial, Rodriguez-Diaz was convicted on all charges.
According to the investigation, Rodriguez-Diaz, was a member of the Gulf Cartel Drug Trafficking Organization and conspired with a co-defendant, Eugenio Carlos-Alfonso, who pled guilty on the day of trial, to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fifty (50) kilograms of cocaine from South Texas to Johnston County, North Carolina via tractor-trailer. The fifty (50) kilograms were hidden in the trailer of the tractor-trailer when stopped by deputies with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office for speeding. A law enforcement canine alerted on the trailer and as a result, two duffle bags containing the fifty (50) kilograms of cocaine were found and seized. Rodriguez-Diaz, a passenger, and the driver of the truck, Eugenio Carlos-Alfonso, were taken into custody, but claimed no knowledge of the drugs. Following their arrest, law enforcement learned that Rodriguez-Diaz and his co-defendant were couriers who worked for the Gulf Cartel. To date, this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation, entitled Relentless Pursuit, has resulted in the indictment of eight defendants and the seizure of over sixty-seven (67) kilograms of cocaine and approximately $2.2 million in United States Currency.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelly L. Sandling and Lucy Brown prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:19-cr-00111-D-4.
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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.
MS-13 Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Role in Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Maryland man pleaded guilty today to driving three men associated with MS-13 who had just committed an armed robbery away from the scene of the crime.
“MS-13 is a transnational gang of vicious thugs that primarily preys on people and businesses in our nation’s vibrant immigrant communities,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Members of those communities should feel confident, as demonstrated today in court, that members and associates of MS-13 that commit violent acts here will be held accountable.”
According to court documents, Willian Alexis Benavides Pena, 26, is a member of MS-13’s Pinos Locos Salvatruchos (“PLS”) clique. On the morning of Aug. 18, 2017, several PLS members and associates travelled from Maryland to Herndon at the direction of the clique’s then-leader in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Some of those individuals, wearing masks and brandishing firearms, proceeded to rob a store in the 1100 block of Elden Street of approximately $19,500. Those men then entered a neighboring restaurant and kept its patrons and staff on the floor for several minutes before fleeing through the rear exit. Benavides Pena, knowing that a robbery had been committed, drove three of the armed robbers away from the scene and back to Maryland.
“This guilty plea is an example of the FBI and Safe Streets Task Force's continued work and commitment to dismantling MS-13 and ending the gang's violence that affects our communities,” said James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office Criminal Division. “The violence perpetrated by MS-13 members and associates will not be tolerated, and we thank our law enforcement partners who work every day to bring violent criminals to justice.”
Benavides Pena pleaded guilty to acting as an accessory after the fact to a Hobbs Act robbery. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison when sentenced on September 22. 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.
“This case, which started at the local level with detectives from Herndon Police Department and Northern Virginia Regional Gang Task Force, exemplifies the tremendous investigative cooperation among local, state, and federal partners in combatting violent crime in our communities,” Maggie DeBoard, Chief of Herndon Police Department said. “Our community remains safer today due to the arrest and conviction of this dangerous individual.”
The case was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), Operation Blue Heat. The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
This matter was investigated by the FBI, Washington Field Office’s Northern Virginia Safe Streets/HIDTA Task Force which is composed of FBI agents working in partnership with local, state and federal agencies within Northern Virginia. The Herndon Police Department provided significant investigative assistance in this matter. The Northern Virginia Safe Streets/HIDTA Task Force is charged with investigating, disrupting and dismantling the most egregious and violent gangs and drug trafficking enterprises operating in Northern Virginia to include MS-13. Information regarding gang activity within Northern Virginia can be referred to the FBI by calling 202-278-2000 or tips.fbi.gov.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge, Criminal Division, FBI Washington Field Office; Maggie A. DeBoard, Town of Herndon Police Chief; and Marcus G. Jones, Montgomery County Chief of Police, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Liam O'Grady accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Blanchard is prosecuting the case.
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-123.
Louisville Riot Activity Results in Multiple Federal Indictments for Pharmacy Looting, Carjacking, and Armed FelonsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced federal indictments returned against multiple individuals in Louisville, Kentucky, as a result of civil unrest in Jefferson County during the period Monday, June 1, through Wednesday, June 3, 2020. The defendants charged are alleged to have engaged in robbing area pharmacies, a carjacking, and the illegal possession of firearms.
“Our black neighbors and the safety of the neighborhoods in which they live matter,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Which is why looting local pharmacies for dangerous drugs, carrying weapons as a convicted felon, carjacking, and a felon traveling to our city to put police and protestors at risk will not be tolerated by federal law enforcement here. These federal charges, with more to come, seek to respond to lawlessness that has nothing to do with constitutionally-protected protest and everything to do with exploiting Louisville’s challenges for their own gain.”
“Protecting our community’s First Amendment right to peacefully protest is of utmost importance to the FBI. The individuals named in these indictments attempted to subvert peaceful protests for their own personal gain and ultimately threatened the rights and safety of law-abiding citizens,” Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown, FBI Louisville Field Office. “FBI Louisville will continue working alongside our law enforcement partners to identify, locate, and apprehend those exploiting nonviolent protests and to ensure individuals wanting to be heard can do so safely.”
“At the request of the Attorney General, ATF has deployed resources and is supporting our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to uphold the rule of law,” stated ATF Louisville Division Special Agent in Charge, R. Shawn Morrow. “These defendants threatened the safety of Metro Louisville and were acting outside of residents who were peacefully assembled. Further, ATF will continue to aggressively investigate the illegal use of firearms and the often resulting violent crime in order to secure the safety of our communities.”
Pharmacy Robberies
● Vontreil Bailey, 30, of Louisville, has been charged with conspiracy to commit burglary involving controlled substances. According to a criminal complaint, on June 2, 2020, LMPD responded to a burglary in progress at Walgreens on 5201 S. 3rd St. Louisville, Kentucky. Police observed multiple people fleeing the business when they arrived. Bailey was detained at that time with the prescriptions still in hand. During a Law Enforcement interview on June 6, 2020, an employee of the business advised that the burglary had severely affected Walgreens’ ability to conduct business as patients prescriptions had been stolen, and the pharmacy was left in disarray.
Bailey has numerous previous convictions including: multiple convictions for theft by deception, menacing, fleeing and evading police, wanton endangerment, robbery and burglary.
● Jean-Pierre Crowdus, 31, Frederick D. Eaves, 31, and Channel Lewis, 26, all of Louisville, Kentucky, have also all been charged federally with Conspiracy to Commit Burglary Involving Controlled Substances for breaking in and looting at the CVS drug store at 3130 Portland Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky.
Eaves has also been charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
The charges carry a penalty of no more than 10 years, a maximum fine of $250,000 and no more than three years of supervised release.
Carjacking
● Damion Lemont Hayes, 20, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with carjacking. Hayes was on a felony diversion at the time of the carjacking as a result of a February 2020 conviction for charges that were initially filed as complicity to murder and complicity to robbery.
According to a criminal complaint, on June 2, 2020, the victim was driving a black 2017 Subaru Forester with a friend down Bardstown Road. The two victims ran into protestors and police activity on Bardstown – they parked to see what was going on. As the victims were walking they were asked for a ride by two females and five males. They all walked back to the victims’ Subaru, however, only three of the males got in the car.
The victim continued to drive down Bardstown, but was caught in traffic. According to the victim, she was uncomfortable with the men in the car, and told them she needed to get gas. She was directed by one of the men to BP, where one of the men put $20 worth of gas in the Subaru. The driver was then directed to drive to three different houses.
The victim reported she wanted the men out of the car, and as she turned to tell them she needed to get home one of the men in the rear passenger side of the car pointed a gun at her. At that point both victims were forced out of the car. The men attempted to take their cell phones, according to the complaint. A minor struggle ensued and one of the men was sprayed with mace by the owner of the car.
The victims reported they were left at Strader and Wheeler Street in Louisville at 12:23 a.m. on June 3, 2020.
On June 4, 2020, at approximately 1:40 a.m. LMPD officers were in pursuit of the Subaru, which flipped into the median off I-64. At that time five people were inside the vehicle, all of whom were taken to the University of Louisville Hospital. One of the occupants at the time of the crash was defendant Hayes, who was arrested by LMPD on state charges.
The federal carjacking charge carries a penalty of no more than 15 years, a maximum fine of $250,000 and no more than three years of supervised release.
Felons in Possession of Firearms
● Brian N. Dean, Jr., 24 of Louisville, is charged by a Grand Jury Indictment with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. According to a criminal complaint, on June 3, 2020, LMPD officers responding to a call of shots fired identified Dean as a person who matched the description of a subject who pointed a gun at an individual. Officers approached Dean, upon noticing the outline of a gun in his pocket he was detained, and officers recovered a Glock, model 43, 9mm, with a loaded magazine.
Dean was previously convicted in Jefferson County, Kentucky, with Robbery in the Second Degree (two counts) and Burglary in the Second Degree; all felonies.
● Tevin R. Patton, 27, of Memphis, Tennessee, has also been charged for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. The federal criminal complaint asserts that the Memphis, Tennessee, man drew a firearm in downtown Louisville.
According to the criminal complaint, on Monday, June 1, 2020, at approximately 10:20 pm Patton was viewed by law enforcement who were conducting surveillance near South 5th St. in downtown Louisville. During the surveillance, a U.S. Secret Service special agent observed Patton pull out a gun.
Law enforcement at the scene then dispersed the crowd with tear gas and flash bang devices, striking Patton with pepper balls once he was observed pointing the gun in the air. Upon being struck by the pepper balls, Patton ran to his car and fled the scene. Police then stopped Patton’s vehicle and located a Springfield Armory USA, model XDs-45, .45 caliber pistol in his vehicle, partially loaded with four rounds remaining in a ten round magazine.
In 2013, Patton pleaded guilty to Aggravated Burglary, a felony, out of Tennessee. Additionally, in 2016 Patton pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, a felony, out of Tennessee. In 2016, Patton was charged with 4th Degree Domestic Violence and Fleeing or Evading Police, 1st Degree.
If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence for being a convicted felon unlawfully possessing a firearm is no more than ten years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Secret Service, and the Louisville Metro Police Department are investigating these cases.
The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Lexington Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Marijuana Trafficking and Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Lexington man, Javantez L. Masters, 21, pleaded guilty on Thursday, before Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves, to possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to Masters’ plea agreement, he admitted that, on September 23, 2019, searches of his residence and vehicle uncovered more than 16 kilograms of marijuana, approximately $35,644 in cash, a loaded rifle, two pistols, , magazines, ammunition, and an active marijuana grow operation. He was also in possession of a vacuum sealer, vacuum sealer bags, and a money counter. Masters further admitted that he had the firearms for protection. Masters, who had a prior drug felony conviction, was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Masters was indicted in February 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by ATF and the Lexington Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Rieker.
Masters is scheduled to be sentenced on October 9, 2020. He faces up to 10 years in prison for the marijuana offense; a minimum of five years and a maximum of life for the armed drug trafficking offense, which must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed; and up to 10 years on the possession by a convicted felon offense. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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 Eastern District of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney Robert Duncan Jr., coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian.
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Leader of Trenton Drug Trafficking Organization IndictedRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A federal grand jury today indicted the leader of a Trenton drug-trafficking organization for his role overseeing and managing the distribution of large amounts of heroin in the Trenton area, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Robert M. Gbanapolor, 33, of Trenton, was charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin with the intent to distribute and distribution. Gbanapolor and 10 others were previously charged by complaint in June 2019. He will be arraigned on a date to be determined.
Eight other members of this drug trafficking conspiracy have previously pleaded guilty in this case. The charges against two other defendants remain pending on complaint.
According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court:
From June 2018 through May 2019, the defendants and others engaged in a heroin trafficking conspiracy in the areas of Stuyvesant Avenue, Hoffman Avenue, and Highland Avenue in Trenton, as well as in the area of Barbary Road in Philadelphia.
Through the interception of telephone calls and text messages pursuant to court-authorized wiretap orders, controlled purchases of heroin, the use of confidential sources of information, and other investigative techniques, law enforcement learned that Gbanapolor obtained regular bulk supplies of heroin from Duane Paulino-Escalera, whom Gbanapolor referred to as “Papi.”
Members of the conspiracy distributed the heroin supplied by Papi to other conspirators, distributors, sub-dealers, and end-users in and around Trenton. Law enforcement officers intercepted numerous discussions among the conspirators regarding issues such as heroin quality and availability, branding, quantity and customer satisfaction.
The charge against Gbanapolor carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum potential penalty of 40 years in prison, and a $5 million fine.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Division, Camden Resident Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson; and task force officers of the Trenton Police Department, under the direction of Police Director Sheilah Coley, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanked detectives and officers of the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Christine A. Hoffman; detectives and officers of the Gloucester Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief Harry Earle; members of the N.J. State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan; detectives and officers of the Bordentown Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Pesce; and special agents of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Charlie J. Patterson for their assistance.
This case is being conducted under the auspices of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric A. Boden and Michelle S. Gasparian of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment and the original complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.