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15 July 2020
Norwich Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Transportation and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Robert Bresee, age 57, of Norwich, New York, was sentenced today to 180 months (15 years) in prison for transporting and possessing child pornography, announced 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).
Bresee, who was previously convicted in Chenango County Court of Rape in the First Degree, and sentenced to 15 years’ in prison, admitted that while on post-release supervision from that offense he uploaded 70 images of child pornography to a Google account, and possessed an additional 21 images on his cellular telephone.
Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy also imposed a 15-year term of supervised release, which will start after Bresee is released from prison, and ordered a $200 special assessment. Bresee, who is currently designated a Risk Level 3 Sexually Violent Offender, will be required to continue to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
Bresee’s case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Norwich Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Norfolk Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for First Degree Murder in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Joseph Lloyd James, 49, of Norfolk, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha to life imprisonment for First Degree Murder in Indian Country by United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher. On November 5, 2018, James murdered Phyllis Hunhoff of Yankton, South Dakota, on the Santee Sioux Indian Reservation in Nebraska. There is no parole in the federal system. As part of his plea agreement, he waived his right to appeal, to seek a pardon, or seek a commutation.
Phyllis Hunhoff regularly traveled from her home in Yankton to her mother’s home in Utica, South Dakota. Her regular practice was to call her mother upon returning to Yankton. On November 4, 2018, at approximately 10 p.m., Phyllis Hunhoff left her mother’s residence, alone, to drive home to Yankton. She did not call her mother as she did not make it home. Having not heard from her daughter, her mother began repeatedly calling her phone to determine her whereabouts. All calls were unanswered.
James and other men were near Phyllis Hunhoff’s mother’s residence as she was leaving. James and another man encountered Phyllis Hunhoff outside of the residence and got into her car with her inside. James, Phyllis Hunhoff, and another man traveled to Norfolk, Nebraska, arriving at about 11:00 p.m. When they arrived in Norfolk, James remained in the vehicle, and the other man left the vehicle. James drove Phyllis Hunhoff’s vehicle, with her inside, to the Santee Sioux Indian Reservation in Knox County, Nebraska.
During the early morning hours of November 5, 2018, while on the Santee Sioux Indian Reservation, James killed Phyllis Hunhoff. He stabbed her with a knife and strangled her. She died in her vehicle as a result of the bleeding and strangulation. James drove Phyllis Hunhoff’s vehicle to a gas station on the Santee Sioux Indian Reservation. Video from the gas station showed James putting gasoline into her vehicle and driving away. Later, James returned in the same vehicle to the gas station and pumped gasoline into a soda bottle. James put the bottle containing the gasoline into the vehicle. He then drove to a wooded location on the Santee Sioux Indian Reservation in Knox County, Nebraska, where he set fire to Hunhoff’s body and her vehicle to conceal evidence of the murder. He abandoned the body and vehicle and left the area.
Law enforcement officers investigated the murder and obtained evidence, including surveillance footage of James at the gas station during the early morning hours of November 5, 2018. Santee Police recovered the shirt James was wearing when he killed Phyllis Hunhoff. Her DNA was on James’ shirt. James’s DNA was on clothing Phyllis Hunhoff was wearing when he killed her.
“Your conduct has taken a life and altered the lives of others,” Judge Brian C. Buescher told James before imposing a life sentence. “I hope you remember the pain you caused for everyday of your sentence which will be for the rest of your life.”
U.S. Attorney Kelly stated, “This was a brutal, horrific, and senseless murder and we hope that today’s life sentence brings some small comfort for the family.”
FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Kristi Johnson said, “The Santee Sioux Nation Tribal Police, Knox County Sheriff and Nebraska State Patrol partnered with FBI Omaha to investigate the brutal murder of Phyllis Hunhoff. Those efforts brought us to Joseph James’s life sentence today. The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement and Native American partners and to fight crime on tribal land.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Nebraska State Patrol, Knox County Sheriff’s Office, Santee Sioux Nation Tribal Police, Yankton County Sheriff’s Office, Yankton Police Department (South Dakota), Norfolk Police Department, the University of Nebraska Medical Center, the Nebraska State Fire Marshal, and the Lincoln Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jody B. Mullis and Sean P. Lynch.
New York Man Charged with Wire Fraud in Alleged Multi-Million Dollar Cryptocurrency Investment SchemeRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – Douglas Jae Woo Kim has been charged in a criminal complaint with wire fraud in connection with a multi-million dollar scheme to raise money for bogus cryptocurrency investments announced United States Attorney David L. Anderson and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge John L. Bennett.
Kim, 27, of New York, NY, made his initial federal court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sallie Kim this morning to face the charge. The allegations describing the crime appear in an affidavit filed together with the complaint on July 9, 2020. According to the complaint and affidavit, Kim represented to friends and acquaintances that he was a cryptocurrency trader and requested loans for business purposes or to trade cryptocurrency. The complaint describes how Kim used cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) to finance transactions as part of the scheme and how, on multiple occasions, he transferred some or all of the assets he received from his victims to online gambling sites operating outside the United States.
According to the affidavit, in October 2017, Kim contacted a victim by text message and said he was looking for investors interested in making what he called a short-term loan for a “fairly modest operation.” According to Kim, he was investing in a cryptocurrency operation in which he would make profit from fees charged to a peer-to-peer network and from exchange transactions. Kim represented to the victim that he already had $300,000 to $400,000 in financial holdings and that the operation “isn’t very risky to me.” Kim later emailed the victim details of the investment. Shortly after receiving cryptocurrency from the victim to finance the investment, Kim transferred about half of it to a bitcoin sportsbook and casino located outside the United States.
In an agreement dated January 1, 2018, Kim set out the terms of similar investment with a second victim. The agreement called for the victim to provide ETH valued at approximately $200,000. The same day, Kim converted more than half of the funds to BTC and, in the following days, transferred substantially all the converted cryptocurrency to his account with an offshore casino.
In the ensuing weeks and months, Kim convinced his victims to provide funds, all or part of which were transferred to cryptocurrency gambling sites. In sum, Kim convinced his victims to provide to him over $4.5 million. According to the affidavit, Kim’s victims all stated they would not have loaned money to Kim if they had known he was using the proceeds for gambling purposes.
Kim is charged with one count of wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343.
The complaint merely alleges that a crime has been committed, and Kim, like all defendants, is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, he faces a maximum statutory penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss resulting from the scheme. In addition, the court may order additional terms of supervised release and restitution. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court only after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Kim’s next appearance is scheduled for August 19, 2020 before Judge Kim for status.
The prosecution is being handled by the Office of the U.S. Attorney, Northern District of California’s new Corporate Fraud Strike Force and is the result of an investigation by the FBI.
Neenah Man Indicted on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on July 14, 2020, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Jesse K. Bell (age: 32) of Neenah, Wisconsin.
According to the indictment, in May of 2020, Bell was in possession of pornographic images of children under 12 years old. Bell is charged with one count of possession of child pornography, contrary to Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(5)(b). He faces a sentence of up to 20 years of incarceration in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Neenah Police Department with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Brown County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 U.S. Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Milford Man Who Distributed Drugs to Overdose Victim Sentenced to 21 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANTHONY AMATO, 31, of Milford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 21 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing fentanyl and heroin.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 26, 2019, the Milford Police Department and emergency medical personnel responded to a Milford rooming house on a report of a drug overdose at the location. Inside the residence, a 28-year-old male was pronounced deceased. At the scene, investigators interviewed witnesses and collected evidence related to narcotics use, including needles and wax folds, some of which contained suspected heroin.
The investigation revealed that the overdose victim and Amato, who resided in another room in the rooming house, were together in the afternoon of August 24, 2019. On August 29, 2019, a court-authorized search of Amato’s room revealed multiple ripped wax folds and other narcotics-related evidence. Some of the wax folds were marked with the same stamp as the wax folds found in the victim’s room. Laboratory analysis of the wax folds revealed fentanyl and heroin residue.
Subsequent review of text communications between Amato and the victim revealed that Amato provided the victim with heroin on August 24, 2019.
Amato’s criminal history includes multiple convictions for narcotics-related offenses in Connecticut.
Amato has been detained since his federal arrest on September 10, 2019. On January 3, 2020, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin.
This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and the Milford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria del Pilar Gonzalez.
Members of Jersey City Gangs Charged in Connection with Shooting of ChildRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Three members of allied Jersey City gangs were charged with the July 7, 2020, shooting of a 12-year old child, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced today.
Marc Taylor, a/k/a “Bando,” 18, Jashawn Tate, a/k/a “Trilly,” 18, and Damari Blackwell, a/k/a “Juggy,” 18, all of Jersey City, are each charged by complaint with one count of assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering activity and one count of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. They are scheduled to make their initial appearances July 16, 2020, by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge James B. Clark III.
According to the documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Taylor, Tate, and Blackwell are associated with three violent street gangs, which have operated pursuant to an alliance since at least September 2019. These gangs historically were associated with specific neighborhoods in Jersey City: the Marion Gardens Housing Complex, Rutgers Avenue, and the Curries Woods Housing Projects. Since the inception of this alliance, members and associates of Marion, Rutgers, and Curries Woods have operated as a cohesive unit, particularly with respect to their retaliatory acts of violence against rival gangs.
On July 7, 2020, Taylor, Tate, and Blackwell drove to rival gang territory and approached a group of individuals. Taylor fired numerous rounds with a .45 caliber handgun through the front passenger seat window of a vehicle while Blackwell simultaneously attempted to fire a Tec-9 assault pistol through the sunroof. A 12-year-old was shot in the leg. Following this assault, Tate attempted to evade law enforcement by fleeing Jersey City in a stolen car and crashed, which resulted in the apprehension of the three defendants. This targeted assault in rival gang territory appears to be a retaliation for a previous shooting.
On the count of assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering activity, Taylor, Tate, and Blackwell each face up to 20 years in prison. For their respective charges for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, Taylor, Tate, and Blackwell each face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison, which must run consecutively to any term of imprisonment imposed on any other charges.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited the Jersey City Police Department, under the direction of Public Safety Director James Shea; the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Esther Suarez; special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Charlie J. Patterson, Newark Field Division; and special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Denahan in Newark, with the investigation leading to the charges and arrests.
This investigation was conducted as part of the Jersey City Violent Crime Initiative (VCI). The VCI was formed in 2018 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Jersey City Police Department, for the sole purpose of combatting violent crime in and around Jersey City. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate to strategize and prioritize the prosecution of violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Jersey Division, the U.S. Marshals, the Jersey City Police Department, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, New Jersey State Parole, the Hudson County Jail, and the New Jersey State Police Regional Operations and Intelligence Center/Real Time Crime Center.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Desiree Grace Latzer of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit in Newark.
Man charged with arson for setting fire to Seattle’s East Police Precinct during Capitol Hill ProtestRead the Press Release
Seattle – A former Seattle resident, who most recently resided in Tacoma, was arrested July 14, 2020, on a federal arson charge for setting fire to the outside of the Seattle Police East Precinct during the occupied protest known as ‘CHOP’, announced U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran. ISAIAH THOMAS WILLOUGHBY, 35, will make his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:30 p.m. today.
“This is the third case we have charged federally for the criminal acts that tainted otherwise peaceful protests. Other crimes remain under investigation and may result in additional federal charges,” said U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran. “Those who worked to turn protests into riots will not escape accountability for their criminal conduct.”
According to the criminal complaint, in the early morning hours of June 12, 2020, a person in distinctive clothing was captured on surveillance video near debris piled next to the wall of the Seattle Police East Precinct. In the video, the suspect appears to use a small can, similar to a gas can, to pour a liquid on the debris. The suspect steps out of frame, then appears to return with something that he lights on fire and tosses on the debris pile. The pile begins to burn, and the suspect walks away. The fire scorched the side of the building, but was extinguished by those nearby using fire extinguishers, and pulling the flaming debris from the building.
After the Seattle Police Department released pictures of the arson suspect, various people recognized him as WILLOUGHBY and noted that the distinctive sweatshirt came from a clothing line he represents. Relatives of WILLOUGHBY reported to police that he was in Seattle in the Capitol Hill Organized Protest Zone (CHOP) at the time of the fire. Following the fire, WILLOUGHBY took steps to remove posts from his social media accounts that may have linked him to the arson. However, at least some of his FaceBook posts remain, noting his anger at police and his knowledge of the East Precinct building.
WILLOUGHBY was originally arrested and charged in state court. WILLOUGHBY was arrested last night without incident at a Seattle residence.
“We support every American’s right to protest,” said ATF Seattle Field Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Mickey French. “But when someone turns to an act of violence, putting many lives in danger, ATF will work to ensure he or she is held accountable.”
“This defendant’s actions are another example, seen many times around the country, where recent peaceful protests and their message, were overshadowed by violence. In this case, he will have to answer for it,” said Raymond Duda, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Seattle.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has charged two other defendants with crimes related to the civil unrest in May and June 2020. Margaret Aislinn Channon is charged with five counts of arson for setting police vehicles on fire the evening of May 30, 2020. Devinare Antwan Parker is charged with possession of an improvised destructive device for the improvised firearm he brought to a protest on May 31, 2020.
Arson is punishable by a mandatory minimum 5 years in prison and up to 20 years in prison.
The charges contained in the complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), the FBI and the Seattle Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Greenberg.
MS-13 Leader in El Salvador Charged with RICO and Terrorism OffensesRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A federal indictment has been unsealed charging an MS-13 leader in El Salvador with a racketeering conspiracy and conspiring to provide material support to terrorists based on his role as a leader of La Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13).
The defendant, Armando Eliu Melgar Diaz, 30, is the first MS-13 leader to face terrorism charges in the United States.
“In 2017, the President directed the Department of Justice to go to war against MS-13, and we did just that,” said Attorney General William Barr. “In coordination with our partners at the Department of Homeland Security, the Justice Department’s law enforcement components have successfully investigated, charged, and arrested command and control elements of MS-13 responsible for murder. Joint Task Force Vulcan’s operations have significantly degraded MS-13’s capabilities. While there is still work to be done, the Department of Justice remains committed to protecting Americans threatened by MS-13, and we will not rest until we have successfully defeated this transnational criminal organization.”
“MS-13 is a transnational gang of vicious predators 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 with this announcement, that members and associates of MS-13 that commit violent acts here will be held accountable.”
“Today’s announcements are the result of tremendous teamwork and coordination between prosecutors and law enforcement officers across the United States and Central America,” said John Durham, Director of Joint Task Force Vulcan. “MS-13 is a violent transnational criminal organization, whose criminal activities respect no boundaries. The only way to defeat MS-13 is by targeting the organization as a whole, focusing on the leadership structure, and deploying a whole-of-government approach against a common enemy.”
MS-13 has tens of thousands of members located in the United States, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and elsewhere. The organization is responsible for murders, extortion, violence, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and other crimes, and has been designated as a terrorist organization by the government of El Salvador.
“This enforcement action sends a clear message that the FBI and our law enforcement partners represented on the Violent Gang Safe Streets Task Forces remain aggressive in investigating and dismantling gang activity that brings violence and fear into our communities,” said Timothy R. Slater, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. “We will use all available tools in our investigative and legal arsenal to disrupt MS-13’s leadership, take these violent offenders off the streets, and ultimately bring justice to the victims of these brutal acts.”
“Homeland Security Investigations is committed to leveraging its unique cross-border authorities to identify and bring to justice members of violent gangs and other transnational criminal organizations,” said Jerry Templet, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville. “These violent transnational criminal networks threaten the safety and security of the law-abiding public, and HSI will continue to work with our federal, state and local partners to identify and seek prosecution of these dangerous individuals.”
According to court documents, Melgar Diaz moved to the United States from El Salvador in 2003, and settled in Virginia. After moving to Virginia, he joined the Gangster Locos Salvatruchas, also known as GLS, a clique of MS-13. In February 2013, Melgar Diaz was deported to El Salvador, but illegally returned to the United States in approximately August of 2013. In November 2016, Melgar Diaz was once again deported to El Salvador. He has resided in El Salvador since 2016.
After his return to El Salvador, Melgar Diaz allegedly continued to be an active member of MS-13. In approximately May 2017, Melgar Diaz allegedly became the Corredor, or leader, of the MS-13 East Coast Program. As Corredor, Melgar Diaz oversaw the activities of approximately 20 MS-13 cliques in the United States, including in Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, California, Ohio, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and the District of Columbia. Melgar Diaz allegedly also oversaw MS-13 activities internationally in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico. Melgar Diaz allegedly coordinated financing for MS-13 by collecting dues and drug trafficking proceeds, aided in trafficking cocaine and marijuana, facilitated communications between MS-13 leaders in El Salvador and cliques in the United States, and authorized acts of violence in the United States, including murder. The money Melgar Diaz allegedly received from members in the United States was used to support MS-13’s violent activities in El Salvador, including by purchasing weapons.
Melgar Diaz is currently in custody El Salvador, where he is facing drug trafficking and conspiracy to commit murder charges.
In August 2019, Attorney General Barr created Joint Task Force Vulcan to carry out the recommendations of the MS-13 subcommittee formed under the Attorney General’s Transnational Organized Crime Task Force, which was the result of President Trump’s February 2017 Executive Order directing the Departments of Justice, State, and Homeland Security, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to coordinate a whole-of-government approach to dismantle transnational criminal organizations, such as MS-13, and restore safety for the American people. The principal purpose of JTFV is to coordinate and lead the efforts of the Justice Department and U.S. law enforcement agencies against MS-13 in order to dismantle the group.
The JTFV has successfully implemented the whole-of-government approach to law enforcement relating to MS-13; increased coordination and collaboration with foreign law enforcement partners, including El Salvador, Mexico, Honduras and Guatemala; designated priority MS-13 programs, cliques and leaders, who have the most impact on the U.S., for targeted prosecutions; and coordinated significant MS-13 indictments in United States Attorney’s Offices across the country, such as the Eastern District of New York, the Eastern District of Virginia, and the District of Nevada.
Federal prosecutors from the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Criminal Division, as well as 10 United States Attorney’s Offices have been assigned to serve the JTFV in full-time capacities: the Eastern District of New York; the Eastern District of Virginia; the District of Nevada; the Southern District of California; the District of Massachusetts; the Northern District of Ohio; the District of New Jersey; the Eastern District of Texas; the District of Utah; and the District of Columbia. In addition, all Department of Justice law enforcement agencies are involved in the effort – the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; and the Bureau of Prisons. The Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations has also played a critical role in JTFV.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Timothy R. Slater, Assistant Director in Charge, FBI Washington Field Office; and Jerry Templet, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, made the announcement after the indictment was unsealed.
Terwilliger would like to thank John Demers, Assistant Attorney General for National Security, and Brian Rabbitt, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division, for their assistance with this case.
Terwilliger also recognizes the following U.S. Attorneys for their assistance in this prosecution: Donald Q. Cochran, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee; Ryan K. Patrick, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas; Erin Nealy Cox, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas; and R. Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Terwilliger would also like to thank Attorney General Raul Melara of El Salvador for the assistance of his office in the investigation, as well as investigators from El Salvador’s Policia Nacional Civil (“PNC”) Centro Antipandilla Transnacional (“CAT”) unit for their assistance.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin L. Rosenberg and Matthew W. Shepherd, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Patterson 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. 1:20-cr-103.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
MS-13 Gang Members Indicted for Six Murders on Long IslandRead the Press Release
A 24-count indictment was unsealed yesterday in federal court in Central Islip charging eight members of the violent transnational criminal organization La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as the “MS-13,” with multiple racketeering offenses in connection with six murders, two attempted murders, a kidnapping conspiracy and narcotics trafficking conspiracies, as well as related charges including assault in aid of racketeering and firearms offenses. The defendants Carlos Alfaro, Jose Moises Blanco, Oseas Gonzalez, Jose Jonathan Guevara-Castro, Victor Lopez-Morales, Ever Morales-Lopez, David Sosa-Guevara and Kevin Torres allegedly are members of one of two subgroups or “cliques” of the MS-13 operating on Long Island: the Hollywood Locos Salvatruchas (“Hollywood”) clique and the Sailors Locos Salvatruchas Westside (“Sailors”) clique. Sosa-Guevara and Torres allegedly were the New York leaders of the Hollywood and Sailors cliques, respectively, and were in direct communication with high-ranking MS-13 leaders in El Salvador.
Blanco and Gonzalez were arrested yesterday morning in Salisbury and Charlotte, North Carolina, respectively, appeared in the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina and were both detained. Blanco and Gonzalez will be transferred to the Eastern District of New York and arraigned at a later date before United States Circuit Judge Joseph F. Bianco. Alfaro, Lopez-Morales, Morales-Lopez and Sosa-Guevara, who are in state custody, and Torres, who is in federal custody, will also be arraigned at a later date before Circuit Judge Bianco. Guevara-Castro remains at large.
Two additional MS-13 members, both of whom were juveniles at the time they allegedly committed the crimes, have separately been charged with racketeering offenses and several murders. By statute, those cases remains under seal at this time.
Attorney General William P. Barr; Seth D. DuCharme, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; William F. Sweeney, Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); Ray Donovan, Special Agent-in-Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, New York Division (DEA); Madeline Singas, District Attorney, Nassau County District Attorney’s Office (NCDAO); and Patrick J. Ryder, Commissioner, Nassau County Police Department (NCPD), announced the arrests and indictment.
“In 2017, the President directed the Department of Justice to go to war against MS-13, and we did just that,” said Attorney General Barr. “In coordination with our partners at the Department of Homeland Security, the Justice Department’s law enforcement components have successfully investigated, charged, and arrested command and control elements of MS-13 responsible for murder. Joint Task Force Vulcan’s operations have significantly degraded MS-13’s capabilities. While there is still work to be done, the Department of Justice remains committed to protecting Americans threatened by MS-13, and we will not rest until we have successfully defeated this transnational criminal organization.”
“As alleged, the defendants committed multiple murders and other violent and wanton crimes on Long Island to further MS-13’s vicious code,” stated Acting United States Attorney DuCharme. “Victims were hacked with machetes, one shot numerous times and another decapitated. This Office, working tirelessly with our local and federal law enforcement partners, will not rest until violent gangs are eradicated from the communities they have terrorized.” Mr. DuCharme expressed his grateful appreciation to all the members of the FBI’s Long Island Gang Task Force, the DEA, the NCPD and the NCDAO, as well as to the members of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), the FBI’s Charlotte Safe Streets Task Force, and the United States Attorneys’ Offices for the Western District of North Carolina, the Middle District of North Carolina, and the Eastern District of Virginia, for their outstanding assistance and partnership in this case.
"Putting these men in a federal prison for the rest of their lives, or facing possible death sentences, may not mean much to them as members of MS-13 because it fits their macho bravado,” stated FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Sweeney. “But it means a tremendous amount of relief to the communities on Long Island they've terrorized by using machetes to murder teenagers. Our work over the last few years on the FBI Long Island Gang Task Force illustrates how vitally important it is to partner with those communities, gain their trust, and doggedly investigate these deplorable crimes. We've seen a vast improvement, but I want the community to know we're not going anywhere, our work is not done. If we can keep the lines of communication open, we can stop the violence before it turns deadly. Reach out and know we're here to help.”
“This investigation outlines the strategy used to kidnap, assault and murder six individuals by alleged members of MS-13. Each act is distinctive, but all are clear examples of the charged extreme violence and savagery of the defendants. I commend our law enforcement partners for their diligent and meaningful work,” stated DEA Special Agent-in-Charge Donovan.
“This indictment strikes yet another heavy blow to MS-13 and will further dismantle the brutal gang that terrorized so many communities,” stated District Attorney Singas. “Thanks to the relentless and collaborative efforts of law enforcement at the federal, state, and local levels MS-13 is on the run, gang violence is down, and our communities are safer. I commend the US Attorney’s Office, the FBI, DEA and NCPD for their outstanding work bringing this case.”
“This indictment is another step forward in eradicating the vicious MS-13 gangs from our communities which ultimately ensures the safety of our neighborhoods and residents. The six victims of gruesome murders are a stark reminder that we must continue our enforcement of all illegal gangs and never stop pursuing justice. I congratulate all of the investigators and their respective agencies for their hard work and dedication, who continue to work together to bring an end to this violence,” stated NCPD Commissioner Ryder.
As detailed in the indictment and in the government’s detention letter, in 2016 and 2017 the Sailors and Hollywood cliques of the MS-13 gang, both of whom had a significant presence in the Roosevelt and Freeport areas of Nassau County, collaborated in the criminal activities on behalf of the MS-13, including the murders of suspected rival gang members.
Murder of Oscar Acosta
Torres is charged in connection with his leadership role in the murder of 19-year- old Oscar Acosta, who was suspected of associating himself with the MS-13’s principal rival on Long Island, the 18th Street gang. Torres allegedly ordered a “greenlight,” or authorization, to kill Acosta and assigned specific roles for other Sailors to the plan and carry out the murder. On April 29, 2016, those MS-13 members lured Acosta to a wooded area near an elementary school in Brentwood. Once there, they brutally beat Acosta with tree limbs, knocking him unconscious. They then bound Acosta’s hands and feet, and coordinating with the local Sailors clique leader in Brentwood, moved Acosta to a more secluded area near an abandoned psychiatric hospital. They carried him into the woods behind a warehouse and stabbed and slashed him to death with a machete. The MS-13 members then buried Acosta’s body in a shallow grave, which was discovered in September 2016.
Murder of Kerin Pineda
The indictment charges Gonzalez, Guevara-Castro, Lopez-Morales, Morales-Lopez, Sosa-Guevara and Torres with the murder of 20-year-old Kerin Pineda, who was believed to be a member of the rival 18th Street gang. Torres allegedly ordered the “greenlight” for Pineda, marking him for death. Members of the Sailors clique coordinated with members of the Hollywood clique and devised the plan. On May 21, 2016, MS-13 members, armed with machetes, lured Pineda to a secluded wooded area near the Merrick-Freeport border. Torres, Lopez-Morales and Sosa-Guevara allegedly acted as lookouts for police and stayed in contact with the MS-13 members in the woods while they waited for Pineda. When Pineda arrived, he was surrounded and violently attacked by the MS-13 members, including both charged juveniles, who each took turns hacking and slashing him with their machetes. Pineda’s corpse was buried in a hole that had been dug the day before. Before leaving the scene, the MS-13 members contacted the lookouts who advised them that they could safely leave.
Murder of Josue Amaya-Leonor
Hollywood clique members Alfaro, Blanco, Gonzalez and Lopez-Morales are charged in connection with their roles in the murder of 19-year-old Josue Amaya-Leonor on September 4, 2016 because of his perceived association with the 18th Street gang. Amaya-Leonor was lured to a secluded wooded area deep into the Roosevelt Preserve to smoke marijuana. Once there, he was allegedly surrounded by the machete-wielding MS-13 members – including one of the charged juveniles – struck repeatedly and killed. The MS-13 members dug a hole and buried Amaya-Leonor’s body, which was not found until May 2018.
Murder of Javier Castillo
Torres is charged for his role in authorizing the murder of 15-year-old Javier Castillo on October 10, 2016 for his perceived association with the 18th Street gang. Members of the Sailors clique in Brentwood convinced Castillo, who lived in Central Islip, to go with them to Cow Meadow Park, a secluded area in Freeport, to smoke marijuana. Once there, the MS-13 members, including one of the charged juveniles, allegedly attacked and killed Castillo, each taking turns hacking him with a machete. Torres also served as the lookout for police in the area during the murder. The MS-13 members dug a hole and buried Castillo’s body, which was not discovered until October 2017.
Murder of Carlos Ventura-Zelaya
Alfaro is charged with the October 14, 2016 murder of 24-year-old Carlos Ventura-Zelaya in Roosevelt. Ventura-Zelaya had been marked for death by the MS-13 because of his suspected membership in the rival 18th Street gang. On the night of the murder, Alfaro and other MS-13 members spotted Ventura-Zelaya on the street in Roosevelt. Alfaro, armed with a 9mm handgun, got out of the car, approached Ventura-Zelaya, and allegedly fired all nine rounds from the gun, striking and killing Ventura-Zelaya.
Murder of Angel Soler
The racketeering charges against Hollywood clique members Lopez-Morales and Sosa-Guevara include the July 21, 2017 murder of 15-year-old Angel Soler and an August 2017 conspiracy to kidnap a victim identified in the indictment as John Doe #3. Soler was a suspected 18th Street gang member, and Sosa-Guevara allegedly ordered his murder. Lopez-Morales and other MS-13 members allegedly carried out the murder, luring Soler to wooded lot near Milburn Creek in Roosevelt to smoke marijuana. The group attacked Soler with machetes and a pickaxe, and buried his body in a shallow grave. The following day, MS-13 members went back to lay cement over Soler’s body to better conceal it.
Kidnapping Conspiracy
Just weeks after the Soler murder, Lopez-Morales and Sosa-Guevara allegedly planned the kidnapping, assault, and/or murder of John Doe #3, an MS-13 member who had violated the rules of the gang. Specifically, Sosa-Guevara instructed Lopez-Morales and two other MS-13 members to kidnap John Doe #3 and wait for further guidance from MS-13 leadership to kill or brutally assault him. On August 6, 2017, Lopez-Morales and the other gang members’ plan to kidnap John Doe #3 was foiled by law enforcement, who had been intercepting the calls arranging the attack, and Lopez-Morales was taken into custody.
Attack on Suspected Rivals
The indictment charges Hollywood clique members Alfaro and Gonzalez with attacking a group of males who had gathered in front of a house in Brentwood on July 18, 2016. That night, the MS-13 members allegedly agreed to drive around the area “hunting” for rival gang members to kill. Four of the gang members, including Alfaro, were selected to participate, armed with two handguns and a machete. While driving around Brentwood that night, the MS-13 members spotted a group of males whom they believed were members of the rival Bloods street gang. Alfaro and two other MS-13 members concealed their faces with bandanas, ran over to the group and attacked them. One victim, identified in the indictment as John Doe #1, was shot in the leg. Another victim, identified in the indictment as John Doe #2, was shot and slashed in the head, face and arms. John Doe #2 sustained disfiguring injuries, but survived the attack.
Cocaine and Marijuana Distribution
The indictment charges various members of the Sailors clique with conspiring to distribute cocaine and marijuana, and members of the Hollywood clique with conspiring to distribute marijuana, stemming from the MS-13 cliques’ alleged street-level sales of cocaine and marijuana on Long Island, the proceeds of which were used to help finance the MS-13’s criminal operations.
Additionally, during the execution of court-authorized search and seizure warrants at the North Carolina residences of both Blanco and Gonzalez yesterday, law enforcement agents and officers recovered additional evidence, including machetes, firearms, ammunition, narcotics, and MS-13 related paraphernalia.
The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, each defendant faces up to life in prison, and is eligible for the death penalty.
In August 2019, Attorney General Barr created Joint Task Force Vulcan to carry out the recommendations of the MS-13 subcommittee formed under the Attorney General’s Transnational Organized Crime Task Force, which was the result of President Trump’s February 2017 Executive Order directing the Departments of Justice, State, and Homeland Security, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to coordinate a whole-of-government approach to dismantle transnational criminal organizations, such as MS-13, and restore safety for the American people. The principle purpose of JTFV is to coordinate and lead the efforts of the Justice Department and U.S. law enforcement agencies against MS-13 in order to dismantle the group.
This indictment is the latest in a series of federal prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York targeting members of the MS-13, a violent transnational criminal organization. The MS-13’s leadership is based in El Salvador and Honduras, but the gang has thousands of members across the United States, comprised primarily of immigrants from Central America. With numerous branches, or “cliques,” the MS-13 is the largest and most violent street gang on Long Island. Since 2003, hundreds of MS-13 members, including dozens of clique leaders, have been convicted on federal felony charges in the Eastern District of New York. A majority of those MS-13 members have been convicted on federal racketeering charges for participating in murders, attempted murders and assaults. Since 2010, this Office has obtained indictments charging MS-13 members with carrying out more than 55 murders in the Eastern District of New York, and has convicted dozens of MS-13 leaders and members in connection with those murders. These prosecutions are the product of investigations led by the FBI’s Long Island Gang Task Force, comprising agents and officers of the FBI, the NCPD, the SCPD, the Nassau County Sheriff’s Department, the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department, the Suffolk County Probation Office, the New York State Police, the Hempstead Police Department, the Rockville Centre Police Department and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Long Island Criminal Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Paul G. Scotti, Justina L. Geraci and Megan E. Farrell are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Assistant District Attorney Jared Rosenblatt of the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office.
The Defendants:
CARLOS ALFARO (“Russo”)
Age: 23
Roosevelt, New YorkJOSE MOISES BLANCO (“Cuervo”)
Age: 30
Salisbury, North CarolinaOSEAS GONZALEZ (“Manota” and “Cordero”)
Age: 28
Charlotte, North CarolinaJOSE JONATHAN GUEVARA-CASTRO (“Suspechoso”)
Age: 25
Formerly of Roosevelt, New York, and Annapolis, MarylandVICTOR LOPEZ-MORALES (“Persa”)
Age: 32
Roosevelt, New YorkEVER MORALES-LOPEZ (“Kyen,” “Inke,” and “White Boy”)
Age: 26
Freeport, New YorkDAVID SOSA-GUEVARA (“Risky”)
Age: 28
Roosevelt, New YorkKEVIN TORRES (“Quieto” and “Inquieto”)
Age: 24
Freeport, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 20-CR-251 (JFB)
Los Angeles County Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Heroin, Methamphetamine, and Cocaine on the DarknetRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Catherine Stuckey, 27, of Woodland Hills, pleaded guilty Tuesday to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, from June 2018 through May 2019, Stuckey conspired with others to operate several darknet vendor accounts, including “RaiseAppeals” on Dream Marketplace, “Diablow” on Silk Road 3.0, and “RaisedByDiablow” on Nightmare Marketplace. Through these accounts, Stuckey and her co-conspirators sold large quantities of heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine to customers throughout the United States. Law enforcement searched the residences of Stuckey and her co-conspirators on May 16, 2019. Stuckey possessed more than 23 kilograms of methamphetamine, 1.9 kilograms of heroin, and 2.7 kilograms of cocaine.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Northern California Illicit Digital Economy Task Force (NCIDE), composed of agents from Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and IRS Criminal Investigation. The NCIDE Task Force is a federal task force focused on targeting all forms of darknet and cryptocurrency activity in the Eastern District of California. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Grant B. Rabenn and Paul Hemesath are prosecuting the case.
Stuckey is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on Oct. 20. Stuckey faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, a 10-year mandatory minimum, and a $10 million fine. The actual sentence, however, will 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.
Leader of Worcester Latin Kings Chapter Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A leader of the Worcester Chapter of the Massachusetts Almighty Latin King and Queen Nation (“Latin Kings”) pleaded guilty today to drug distribution charges.
Alvin Mojica, a/k/a “King Humble,” 32, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of cocaine. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel scheduled sentencing for Oct. 28, 2020. Mojica was arrested and charged in December 2019, at which time he was the leader of the Worcester based Chapter of the Latin Kings.
During the plea proceedings, Mojica admitted that in May 2019 he distributed just under 14 grams of cocaine to a cooperating witness in an audio/video recorded transaction.
The Latin Kings are a violent criminal enterprise comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Latin Kings adhere to a national manifesto, employ an internal judiciary and use a sophisticated system of communication to maintain the hierarchy of the organization. As alleged in court documents, the gang uses drug distribution to generate revenue, and engages in violence against witnesses and rival gangs to further its influence and to protect its turf.
Mojica is the third defendant to plead guilty in the case.
The charge provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a minimum of three years and up to life of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Commissioner Carol Mici of the Massachusetts Department of Correction; and Worcester Police Chief Steven M. Sargent made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was also provided by the FBI North Shore Gang Task Force and the Bristol County and Suffolk County District Attorney’s Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard and Mark Grady of Lelling’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Lawrence Contractor Sentenced to a Year and a Day in Oread Hotel Tax CaseRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Kansas building contractor was sentenced Wednesday to a year and a day in prison and fined $25,000 for conspiring to deprive the city of Lawrence of sales tax revenues in connection with the development of a seven-story hotel adjacent to the University of Kansas campus. After completing his sentence, the defendant will serve three years on supervised release.
Thomas S. Fritzel, 54, Lawrence, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of criminal conspiracy. Fritzel, part owner and manager of Oread Inn LC, was a party to an agreement with the city to finance the more than $40 million hotel project, including $11 million worth of street repairs and a public parking garage.
Oread Inn LC was to pay all costs up front and to be repaid $11 million for public improvements. The money to repay Oread Inn LC was to come from an incremental increase in property tax, a sales tax and an additional 1 percent tax on sales within a portion of the redevelopment district.
In his plea, Fritzel admitted that he and others caused false monthly Kansas sales tax returns to be submitted to the state of Kansas. The reports classified certain sales as occurring within the redevelopment district when in fact they occurred outside the district. As a result, the city of Lawrence lost a portion of sales taxes it was due.
The city of Lawrence filed a civil lawsuit against Fritzel seeking the lost revenue and the parties settled that case in 2017.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard commended the FBI, the Lawrence Police Department and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rich Hathaway for their work on the case.
Kokomo resident arrested on federal animal cruelty chargesRead the Press Release
Indianapolis – United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced today that Krystal Cherika Scott, 19, Kokomo, Ind. was arrested and charged with two counts of Making and Distributing Animal Crush Videos, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 48 (the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act).
“As decent human beings, we have a great responsibility to protect and have compassion for the animals that inhabit this earth.” said Minkler. “It is unconscionable to think that any human being could possible bring themselves to such acts upon an animal. We cannot allow this behavior in a decent and moral society. That is why Ms. Scott must face the consequences of her choices.”
Beginning at least on or about May 3, 2020, and continuing until at least July 8, 2020, Scott, began posting images and videos over various social media platforms, that depicted Scott torturing and graphically killing cats and dogs by hanging, skinning and other means.
Scott’s conduct attracted the attention of several private citizens who began using publicly available information to attempt to identify the perpetrator. The concerned citizens shared and collected information so that they could provide it to law enforcement and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
On June 16, 2020, the Boise, Idaho Police Department received information from some of those concerned citizens, and immediately opened an investigation. After reviewing the videos and images, the officers concluded that they constituted “animal crush videos,” which is a federal violation.
On June 18, 2020, Boise Police Department contacted the FBI who began working to identify the perpetrator. Working in conjunction with the Boise Police Department and the Ada County Idaho Sheriff’s Office, the investigation revealed that Krystal Cherika Scott of Kokomo Indiana, was responsible for torturing and killing the animals, then posting the videos. Scott obtained the animals, at least in part, by responding to online ads from individuals who were seeking to give away their unwanted pets for adoption.
The FBI Indianapolis Field Office joined the investigation, and learned that Kokomo Police Department had recently contacted Scott after receiving similar animal cruelty complaints in May and June. At that time, Kokomo Police were unable to make an arrest and were unaware of the other investigations involving Scott.
As agents worked to gather evidence, Scott continued to post images of dead animals on Instagram and Tik-Tok as late as July 8th, 2020. On July 9, 2020, the Honorable Doris L. Pryor, Magistrate Judge in the Southern District of Indiana, approved the execution of search warrants seeking additional evidence from Scott’s person, residence, and vehicles, as well as the search and seizure of evidence obtained by the Kokomo Police Department.
On July 14, 2020, Special Agents of the FBI and other law enforcement officers executed the warrants. During the search, the FBI recovered numerous animal parts and skulls that were consistent with the size of cats and dogs. Agents also discovered approximately three live dogs, twelve live cats, and several lizards.
FBI recovered and seized the cellular phone used to produce and distribute the animal crushing videos. A full forensic analysis of the phone is currently underway. Scott told officers that her mother did not participate in acts of animal crushing or posting animal crushing videos.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Boise Police Department, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Resident Agency in Boise, Idaho and the Indianapolis Field Office. The Kokomo Police Department also assisted with this case.
“Animal abusers have total power over that animal and, if someone is willing to be that cruel to an animal, evidence suggests they may target vulnerable humans as well,” said Special Agent in Charge Paul Keenan, FBI Indianapolis. “In November of 2019, the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act was passed to address this issue and to assist law enforcement to better target intervention efforts with respect to animal cruelty and the crimes for which it serves as a marker. Our agents and law enforcement partners will continue to diligently work to identify and investigate those who would perpetrate these crimes.”
“This case is an outstanding example of society’s intolerance to animal cruelty and the public’s willingness to do the right thing,” said Special Agent in Charge Paul Haertel of the FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office. “Tips poured in from all over the world, assisting in an intense and technically complex investigation to find the alleged perpetrator and put a stop to the senseless and horrific abuse of innocent animals.”
“The Boise Police Department is thankful to have played a role in the investigation into this disturbing crime. We had concerned people from all over the world contact us about the terrible images they were seeing on social media. Our officers and detectives worked hard to investigate leads here in Boise and partnered with the FBI as the investigation grew and moved out of state.” said Boise Police Department Deputy Chief Ron Winegar. “We also want to thank the Ada County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance as well as the public for their many tips and patience as we worked to see this investigation through.”
According to Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany Preston who is prosecuting this case for the government, the defendant faces up to 7 years’ imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $250,000.
A charge is not evidence of guilt. All parties are presumed innocent until proven otherwise in federal court.
In October 2017, United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced a Strategic Plan designed to shape and strengthen the District’s response to its public safety challenges. This demonstrates the office’s firm commitment to violent crime and crimes committed using the dark web. See United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana Strategic Plan Sections 2.3 and 4.6.
Kentucky Woman Pleads Guilty in $4 Million Warranty Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Tammy Newsome, 54, of Ashland, Kentucky, entered a guilty plea to mail fraud for her role in a scheme to defraud Toyota of more than $4.3 million, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Newsome joins three other individuals who previously entered guilty pleas for their roles in the fraud scheme.
Newsome faces up to 20 years in prison when she is sentenced on October 15, 2020, and will be required to pay restitution of up to $4.3 million to Toyota.
“Newsome played a critical role in perpetrating this $4 million fraud scheme,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “I commend the great investigative work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the FBI, the W.V. State Police, and the W.V. Insurance Commissioner. Toyota may have suffered the loss but, ultimately, it’s consumers who really pay. These fraud schemes rip off every consumer. That’s why we work so hard to hold those responsible accountable.”
Newsome was employed as an administrative assistant for a Kentucky used car dealership, Big Blue Motor Sales, which bought trucks at wholesale prices at auction, obtained hundreds of copies of Kentucky and West Virginia residents’ driver’s licenses, fraudulently titled the trucks in the name of those residents, and induced Toyota to repurchase the trucks at 150% of value.
The scheme relied on Newsome to make false representations to the Department of Motor Vehicles to obtain false vehicle titles in the names of false owners. The titles obtained by Newsome were then used by other scheme participants to induce Toyota to repurchase the vehicles. Newsome admitted that she made false representations to the DMV, delivered cash bribes to other scheme participants, and forged signatures of false owners so that checks issued by Toyota in the name of a false owner could be deposited into Big Blue Motor Sales’ bank account.
The United States Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia Office of the Insurance Commissioner conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Former Assistant United States Attorney Stefan Hasselblad and Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew J. Tessman and Steven I. Loew are handling the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:19-CR-00250.
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Kansas Priest Sentenced for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas priest who pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography was sentenced today to 37 months in federal prison, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said. The defendant also was ordered to pay $5,000 under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act.
In his plea, Christopher Rossman, 47, who formerly served at the Annunciation Catholic Church in Baldwin City, Kan., admitted that investigators found child pornography on his Samsung Galaxy tablet. The crime occurred in September 2016 when monitoring software installed on Rossman’s computer devices reported he had visited adult pornography and child pornography websites. The archdiocese forwarded the report to law enforcement.
When investigators tried to find Rossman in Baldwin City, they learned that his sister had taken possession of the Galaxy tablet and tried to run over it a number of times. A forensics examination found files on the device depicting prepubescent females engaged in sexual activities.
McAllister commended FBI task force agent Angie Jones for her work on the case and the Archdiocese for it its cooperation. McAllister and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel prosecuted.
Justice Department Files Civil Action to Shut Down Chicago Area Tax Return PreparerRead the Press Release
The United States has filed a complaint seeking to bar a Chicago area tax return preparer from preparing federal income tax returns for others, the Justice Department announced today.
The civil complaint against Anthony Jones was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, and alleges that Jones prepared federal income tax returns for several Chicago area taxpayers that significantly understated his customers’ tax liabilities by fabricating or manipulating his customers’ business income or expenses. The suit also charges that Jones misrepresents his customers’ filing statuses.
According to the complaint, the IRS interviewed several of Jones’ customers, who allegedly stated that they did not generate the business income or incur the business expenses reported on the returns Jones prepared for them, and did not give Jones any reason to believe that such income or expenses were legitimate. The complaint alleges that, by repeatedly understating his customers’ tax liabilities, Jones has caused substantial harm to the United States.
Return preparer fraud is one of the IRS’s Dirty Dozen Tax Scams and taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers.
In the past decade, the Department of Justice Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website. An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page. If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details.
Indictment unsealed charging six men with sexual exploitation of minorsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman announced today that a four-count indictment was unsealed in the Northern District of Ohio charging six men with conspiracy to engage in sexual exploitation of children, sexual exploitation of children, conspiracy to receive visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and conspiracy to access with intent to view child pornography.
Named in the indictment are David Pece, age 30, of Highland Heights, Ohio; Myron Brown, age 59, of Columbia, South Carolina; Mark Delacruz, age 31, of Temple City, California; Steven Foster, age 45, of Portsmouth, Ohio; Richard Avery, age 52, of Safford, Arizona and Ethan Shives, age 30, of Big Pool, Maryland.
According to the indictment, from November 2015 through March 2016, the defendants worked together in a group, and with others, to convince minor victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct online. Allegedly, this conduct was often preformed via webcam so that the defendants could record and view the material.
The indictment states that the defendants conspired together online with the intent to lure their minor victims into one or more chatroom-based websites. Once the minors visited these chatroom-based websites, the defendants and others would entice the victims to engage in sexually explicit acts, which they would then record.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by agents with the Detroit Division of the FBI. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Gaughan Andrachik.
IRS Criminal Investigation and United States Attorney remind taxpayers of the tax filing deadline; urge and to remain vigilant of scamsRead the Press Release
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas remind taxpayers of the July 15 filing and payment deadline and warn against an increase in tax and COVID-19 scams.
Due to COVID-19, the original filing deadline and tax payment due date for 2019 was postponed from April 15 to July 15. Taxpayers filing Form 1040 series returns must file Form 4868 by July 15 to obtain the automatic extension to Oct. 15.
“Although the extension provides additional time to file the tax return – it is not an extension to pay any taxes due”, said Adam Steiner, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation division in the St. Louis Field Office. “For people facing hardships who cannot pay in full, including those affected by COVID-19, the IRS has several options available to help. The IRS encourages taxpayers to visit IRS.gov as soon as possible to explore these options and avoid accruing interest and penalties after the July 15 deadline.”
As the filing deadline is today, taxpayers should beware of tax and COVID-19 related scams. “Criminals use the tax filing deadline as an opportunity to steal personal and financial information”, said U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister for the District of Kansas. “Taxpayers should remain vigilant and know that the IRS will not initiate contact with them via phone, email or social media to request personal or financial information.”
In the last few months, the IRS Criminal Investigation division (CI) has continued to see a tremendous increase in a variety of Economic Impact Payment scams and other financial schemes. CI continues to work with its law enforcement partners to put a stop to these schemes and bring criminals to justice.
Taxpayers can report COVID-19 scams to the National Center for Disaster Fraud. Taxpayers can also report fraud or theft of their Economic Impact Payments to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). Unsolicited (phishing) e-mails that appear to be from the IRS should be forwarded to [email protected].
For the most up-to-date information about the tax filing deadline and IRS impersonation scams, taxpayers can visit IRS.gov.
IRS Criminal Investigation and United States Attorney remind taxpayers of the tax filing deadline; urge and to remain vigilant of scamsRead the Press Release
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri remind taxpayers of the July 15 filing and payment deadline and warn against an increase in tax and COVID-19 scams.
Due to COVID-19, the original filing deadline and tax payment due date for 2019 was postponed from April 15 to July 15. Taxpayers filing Form 1040 series returns must file Form 4868 by July 15 to obtain the automatic extension to Oct. 15.
“Although the extension provides additional time to file the tax return – it is not an extension to pay any taxes due”, said Adam Steiner, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation division in the St. Louis Field Office. “For people facing hardships who cannot pay in full, including those affected by COVID-19, the IRS has several options available to help. The IRS encourages taxpayers to visit IRS.gov as soon as possible to explore these options and avoid accruing interest and penalties after the July 15 deadline.”
As the filing deadline is today, taxpayers should beware of tax and COVID-19 related scams. “Criminals use the tax filing deadline as an opportunity to steal personal and financial information”, said U.S. Attorney Jeff Jensen for the Eastern District of Missouri. “Taxpayers should remain vigilant and know that the IRS will not initiate contact with them via phone, email or social media to request personal or financial information.”
In the last few months, the IRS Criminal Investigation division (CI) has continued to see a tremendous increase in a variety of Economic Impact Payment scams and other financial schemes. CI continues to work with its law enforcement partners to put a stop to these schemes and bring criminals to justice.
Taxpayers can report COVID-19 scams to the National Center for Disaster Fraud. Taxpayers can also report fraud or theft of their Economic Impact Payments to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). Unsolicited (phishing) e-mails that appear to be from the IRS should be forwarded to [email protected].
For the most up-to-date information about the tax filing deadline and IRS impersonation scams, taxpayers can visit IRS.gov.
Highest-Ranking Member of Brunswick County Bloods Gang Sentenced to More Than 29 Years for Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Tabor City Bloods leader Nicholas Shamar Griffin was sentenced today to 350 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute a Quantity of Cocaine and 280 grams or more of Cocaine Base (Crack), and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Quantity of Cocaine and Aiding and Abetting.
According to court documents, Griffin, 40, pled guilty to the charges on February 21, 2020.
In 2017 and 2018, investigators determined that the Defendant was a significant supplier of controlled substances in Brunswick County. The investigation also showed that Griffin was the highest-ranking member of the Bloods street gang in Brunswick County.
On July 31, 2018, members of the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle operated by Griffin. Officers approached the vehicle, and Griffin appeared nervous and fumbled with his wallet. The two passengers in the vehicle also appeared nervous and appeared to be concealing something.
All three passengers were asked to exit the vehicle. As one of the passengers exited the vehicle, he dropped two baggies containing 55.86 grams of cocaine on the ground and kicked the bags behind the rear tire of the vehicle. Griffin later admitted to officers that the cocaine was his.
Two months later, on September 28, 2018, Griffin got into gang-related argument with a victim. As the victim walked away, Griffin shot the victim in the back.
Griffin then fled to South Carolina to hide from law enforcement. On November 29, 2018, Griffin was arrested in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
That effort has been implemented through the Take Back North Carolina Initiative of The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement. For more information about this initiative click here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/tbnc.
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 (ATF) and the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott A. Lemmon prosecuted 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. 7:18-cr-00174-D.
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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.
Henryetta Woman Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Brandis Nicole Fish, age 36, of Henryetta, Oklahoma entered a guilty plea to Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), punishable by not less than 5 years to not more than 40 years imprisonment, a fine up to $5,000,000.00 or both.
The Indictment alleged that from on or about January 27, 2020, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Trails Task Force. The Oklahoma Safe Trails Task Force is comprised of the FBI and nine partner agencies including: Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police, Okmulgee Police Department, Okmulgee Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, District 25 District Attorney’s Investigators, Cherokee Nation Police, Tahlequah Police Department, and Wagoner Police Department. The task force is focused on combating and reducing crime related to tribal jurisdictions across Oklahoma.
The Honorable Kimberly E. West, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.
Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Conway represented the United States at the change of plea hearing.
Harrison County man sentenced to 25 years for drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert Michael Junkins, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 300 months of incarceration for drug and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
In June 2019, a jury deliberated for less than one hour before finding Junkins, age 51, guilty of two counts of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine,” one count of “Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Offense,” and two counts of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.”
Junkins had methamphetamine in his possession on three separate occasions. Having been convicted of a felony drug offense, Junkins also illegally had several firearms and ammunition. The crimes occurred in August and September 2017 and November 2018 in Harrison County.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon S. Flower and Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Elkins Police Department investigated.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Goldsboro Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Goldsboro man was sentenced today to 240 months in prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fifty (50) grams or more of methamphetamine and distributing fifty (50) grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, James Nathan Crawford, Jr., also known as “Stacks,” 25, had engaged in a multi-year conspiracy to distribute large amounts of crystal methamphetamine and heroin throughout Goldsboro, Kinston, and Sampson County. At sentencing, the judge held Crawford accountable for over 1.7 kilograms of methamphetamine and over 500 grams of heroin, noting that Crawford had been in charge of others involved in the conspiracy. Crawford was a known leader in a local set of the United Blood Nation gang.
The investigation was part of OCDETF Operation Carolina’s Ice Fall, which targeted large-scale methamphetamine dealers operating in and around Goldsboro. An Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets. To date, Operation Carolina’s Ice Fall has resulted in the prosecutions of 26 individuals for their role in methamphetamine distribution and other crimes.
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 and Explosives, the Goldsboro Police Department, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura S. Howard 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-356-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.
Gainesville Gun Violence Initiative Secures Convictions for Three Men with Histories of Violence and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Three Alachua County men, each with multiple prior felony convictions, were sentenced in late June, 2020, to federal prison terms ranging from 5 to 17 years followed by supervised release for firearm and drug offenses. United States Attorney Lawrence Keefe for the Northern District of Florida announced the sentences.
These federal convictions result from the joint efforts of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies that form the Gainesville Gun Violence Initiative (GVI). The Gainesville GVI was established in April, 2019, by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida in an effort to stem the escalating gun violence in Gainesville and the surrounding area. As GVI partners, the State Attorney’s Office for the Eight Judicial Circuit, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Gainesville Police Department, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the Alachua Police Department, the University of Florida Police Department, and the Florida Department of Corrections share this commitment to protecting public safety.
“The Gainesville Gun Violence Initiative gets results. There is still more work to be done, but I am confident that we will continue to remove violent felons from the streets and make our communities safer,” said U.S. Attorney Keefe. “My staff and I remain committed to supporting our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners and I applaud the dedicated professionals who brought these men to justice.”
Darris Orr, (33), of Gainesville, Florida, received concurrent federal prison sentences of 10 and 17 years on June 29, 2020, after pleading guilty on January 28, 2020, to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Eutylone (a synthetic cathinone, more commonly known as “bath salts”), and Marijuana. During a traffic stop on May 14, 2019, officers of the Gainesville Police Department searched a vehicle Orr was a passenger in and discovered a loaded 9 millimeter (9mm) pistol in the glove box. Orr admitted owning the gun and was arrested for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. He was indicted on August 6, 2019. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms conducted a follow-up investigation and a federal warrant was issued for Orr’s arrest. When Orr was later apprehended on September 5, 2019, he was in possession of 77 grams of Eutylone (more commonly known as “bath salts”), approximately 150 pills containing Methamphetamine, and approximately half a pound of Marijuana. Orr had prior felony convictions including drug possession with the intent to sell, felony battery, burglary, and victim/witness tampering.
"This is a result of excellent cooperation between local and federal authorities to address gun violence on the streets of Gainesville," said Chief Tony Jones of the Gainesville Police Department.
Curtis Lee Woods Jr., (29), also of Gainesville, was sentenced on June 30, 2020, after pleading guilty on January 28, 2020, to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison. On July 29, 2019, Woods ran from Alachua County Sheriff’s Office warrant investigators as they attempted to apprehend him on an outstanding arrest warrant for Attempted Murder. As investigators caught up with Woods, they saw him throw something over the 15 foot wall that boxed him in. Once Woods was in custody, sheriff’s deputies located and recovered a loaded 9mm pistol from the other side of the wall. Forensics experts from the sheriff’s office recovered Woods’ fingerprint from the slide of the pistol. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms conducted a follow-up investigation. Woods had prior felony convictions including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, robbery with a deadly weapon, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and false imprisonment.
“I applaud the hard work of everyone involved in the successful completion of this case,” said Alachua County Sheriff, Sadie Darnell. “Make no mistake, violent crime involving guns and drugs will not be tolerated in our community. We will continue to work with all our partners to make sure that those who choose to resort to violence with firearms are dealt with accordingly.”
Fermon Green III, (39), of Hawthorne, Florida, was sentenced on June 30, 2020, after pleading guilty on March 3, 2020, to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison. On September 28, 2019, Alachua County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call from a female who said Green threatened her with a firearm inside her own home, and that he was still on the porch outside her residence. When deputies arrived and questioned him, Green denied he had a firearm but a search revealed that he was in possession of a 9mm pistol that had previously been reported stolen. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms conducted a follow-up investigation. Green had prior felony convictions including child abuse, battery on a law enforcement officer, felony battery, burglary, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
“Our law enforcement partnerships play such a vital role in fighting violent crime and protecting the public,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge, Daryl McCrary, “This sentencing is another example that working jointly with our partners is making our communities safer.”
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Elsey prosecuted the cases, which were investigated by the Gainesville Police Department, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, all member agencies of the Gainesville Gun Violence Initiative.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Press Release - Gainesville Gun Violence InitiativeFour South Dakotans Sentenced in Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Michael Ernesti of Sioux Falls, Melissa Herrboldt of Harrisburg, Preston Langeland of Yankton, and Kane Marshall of Harrisburg, all of whom were convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, have been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Ernesti, age 30, was sentenced to 95 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Herrboldt, age 25, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Langeland, age 31, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Marshall, age 25, was sentenced to 55 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. They were also all ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Ernesti, Herrboldt, Langeland, and Marshall were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on June 6, 2019. Ernesti pled guilty on October 10, 2019, Herrobldt pled guilty on November 4, 2019, Langeland pled guilty on March 5, 2020, and Marshall pled guilty on April 6, 2020.
These four defendants worked together to distribute fentanyl, which was received through the mail, throughout the Yankton area and elsewhere.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the Yankton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
All defendants were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service after their sentencing.
Four Indicted for Murder-for-Hire Targeting DEA Task Force OfficerRead the Press Release
A four-person cabal has been charged with plotting a hit on a DEA task force officer, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.
A federal grand jury indicted Manuel Garcia Gomez, 22, Jorge Humberto Velazco Larios, 27, Eva Denisse Gomez Garcia, 38, and Alicia Yuritzi Juarez Martinez, 31, for conspiracy to use interstate commerce in the commission of murder-for-hire.
Mr. Gomez and Mr. Larios have been arrested and will make their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Renee Toliver this afternoon at 2 p.m. Ms. Garcia and Ms. Martinez remain fugitives and are believed to be in Mexico.
“The Justice Department will not stand for retaliatory violence against officers and agents,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “These defendants were plotting to murder a federal task force officer – a man who routinely risks his life to combat the scourge of drugs in our community. We are grateful to our partners at the DEA and FBI who worked tirelessly to keep the officer safe and help bring his would-be killers to justice.”
According to the indictment, unsealed today, Mr. Gomez – who was behind bars at Johnson County Jail on a methamphetamine charge – allegedly told another individual at the jail he wanted to “off” the DEA agent assigned to his case. He set the budget at $20,000: $5,000 up front and $15,000 following the hit.
In a subsequent phone call with an individual outside the jail, Mr. Gomez confirmed he wanted the agent murdered.
Mr. Gomez then called his girlfriend, Ms. Martinez, and his sister, Ms. Garcia, to arrange for delivery of the murder-for-hire fee. He advised them that the co-defendant in his drug case, Mr. Larios, would also contribute to the up-front payment.
Meanwhile, Mr. Larios, also behind bars, called an unindicted co-conspirator and asked him to deliver money to a workshop “so we can take care of something.”
On June 11, the unindicted co-conspirator, referred to in court documents by the nickname “Roberto,” made a $3,000 “down payment” for the murder of the agent. Five days later, he made an additional $2,000 payment on behalf of Mr. Gomez and Mr. Larios.
Mr. Gomez once again called his contact outside the jail. He described the DEA agent he wanted killed, then instructed the individual to call Ms. Martinez and Ms. Garcia, who he said had documents that could help the hit man figure out the name of the target. Mr. Gomez said the women were “badasses” who “know everything that is going on.”
Shortly thereafter, Ms. Garcia received a photo of DEA task force officer “T.H.” via the messaging app, WhatsApp. The following day, she flashed the image during a jailhouse video call with Mr. Gomez.
“Yes, that’s him,” Mr. Gomez told Ms. Garcia, smiling.
“Drug trafficking is inherently violent and traffickers will stop at nothing to protect their profits and their lifestyle,” said Eduardo A. Chavez, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Dallas Field Division. “DEA agents and task force officers constantly put themselves in harm’s way to ensure these individuals are brought to justice. We appreciate our federal partners’ swift efforts to bring accountability to their nefarious intentions.”
"The Dallas Violent Crime Task Force is dedicated to protecting our citizens. This includes ensuring the safety of our law enforcement partners," said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew DeSarno. "The defendants wanted to harm a DEA task force officer and that is unacceptable. Fortunately, we were able to prevent a dangerous act from occurring and successfully apprehend a group of violent criminals."
An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
If convicted, these defendants face up to 10 years in federal prison. (Had the hit been carried out as planned, they would have faced a possible death sentence or life imprisonment.)
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office, Violent Crime Task Force, conducted the investigation in close collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administrations’ Dallas Field Division. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Marshals Service, and U.S. Customs & Border Protection assisted in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Calvert is handling the prosecution.
Forsyth County Resident Charged with Federal Gun, Drug Violations Following a High Speed ChaseRead the Press Release
GREENSBORO, N.C. – Matthew G.T. Martin, United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina, announced today that DARTAGNAN BLAZE SURRATT, age 21, of Winston-Salem, NC, was charged with violations of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), felon in possession of a firearm, Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D), possession with intent to distribute marihuana, and Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(i), possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The Complaint alleges that on June 7, 2020, at approximately 2:30 a.m., a Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office deputy attempted to stop a black 2019 Buick Cascada convertible for speeding on U.S. Highway 421 southbound in Lewisville, NC. The driver failed to stop, resulting in a high speed chase that ended in a crash, when the driver of the Buick failed to effectively reduce speed while exiting the highway and collided with a raised concrete median. The driver fled from the car, was caught nearby, and was identified as SURRATT.
According to the Complaint, when officers checked on a female passenger in the vehicle, the convertible top was down and officers could see an unsealed bottle of liquor on the floorboard and smell an odor of marihuana coming from the vehicle. Inside the car, officers found several ounces of marihuana, more than $7,000 in U.S. currency, and four firearms: a Ruger, model EC9, 9mm pistol, loaded with ammunition; a Romarm/Cugir Arms Factory, model WASR 10, 7.62x39mm caliber rifle; a Volunteer Enterprises Incorporated, model Commando Mark V, .45 caliber rifle, made into a pistol by taking the stock off, with an attached 30 round stick magazine; an Anderson Manufacturing, model AM-15, 5.56mm caliber rifle loaded with ammunition; and, three additional magazines. Officers also found fireworks, a digital scale and other items of drug paraphernalia, a set of handcuffs, a handcuff key, and an apparent protest sign inside the car. The investigation also developed photographic evidence of SURRATT posing with the Anderson Arms AM-15 rifle.
The Complaint also alleges that SURRATT has previously been convicted of a felony offense, punishable by more than one year imprisonment, and therefore could not lawfully possess a firearm. He was on state supervised probation for that prior felony at the time of these alleged offenses.
A detention hearing and preliminary hearing were held on July 14, 2020, and SURRATT was ordered detained while awaiting further proceedings in the case.
If convicted under Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), felon in possession of a firearm, SURRATT may be sentenced to a maximum of 10 years imprisonment, a fine not to exceed $250,000.00, or both, and 3 years of supervised release. If convicted of the drug charge under Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D), SURRATT may be sentenced to not more than 5 years imprisonment, a fine not to exceed $250,000.00, or both, and not less than 2 years of supervised release. If convicted under Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(i), possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, SURRATT may be sentenced to imprisonment for not less than 5 years and not more than life (to run consecutively with any other term of imprisonment), a fine not to exceed $250,000.00, or both, and not more than 5 years of supervised release.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The case has been investigated by the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Former Rikers Correctional Officer Pleads Guilty to Smuggling Contraband for InmatesRead the Press Release
Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, William F. Sweeney Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), and Margaret Garnett, the Commissioner of the New York City Department of Investigation (“DOI”), announced today that JOSHUA ALBA pled guilty before United States Magistrate Judge Robert W. Lehrburger to one count of conspiring to commit honest services wire fraud, for his role in smuggling packages containing contraband to inmates detained at the Anna M. Kross Center (“AMKC”) on Rikers Island, in return for thousands of dollars in cash bribes.
Acting U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said: “As he has now admitted, Joshua Alba abused his authority as a correctional officer to smuggle contraband into a prison facility in return for cash bribes. Contraband smuggling schemes threaten the security of our prisons and jeopardize the safety of inmates and other guards, and my office will continue to aggressively pursue those correctional officers who betray their duties for the lure of easy money.”
FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “Keeping illegal contraband out of our jails is an ongoing challenge for corrections officers. It’s hard to imagine why an insider on the job would assist with this process, the results of which put everyone in the facility at risk. There’s no excuse for this type of irresponsible and illegal behavior. Today’s arrest has effectively landed Alba on the other side of the law.”
DOI Commissioner Margaret Garnett said: “This former City Correction Officer allegedly used his access and influence to funnel contraband into Rikers Island in exchange for thousands of dollars in cash, according to the charges. This scheme isn’t original; it isn’t inventive, but it is dangerous for staff and inmates and must be acted on swiftly through rigorous investigation and prosecution. DOI thanks the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York and the New York Field Office of the FBI for their partnership in uncovering this alleged crime.”
According to allegations in the criminal complaint, the information, and other documents filed in federal court, as well as statements made in public court proceedings:
Rules and regulations promulgated by the New York City Department of Correction (“NYCDOC”) prohibit correction officers and other staff from introducing or delivering contraband into NYCDOC facilities, and provide that “[e]mployees shall not enter into any transaction with an inmate, nor carry, convey, or make accessible to an inmate within a facility/command any intoxicant, opiate, narcotic, or other contraband article, nor traffic with an inmate in any manner.”
As alleged in the Information and Complaint, and as he admitted today in court, at various points during the course of this scheme JOSHUA ALBA flouted those rules and regulations by agreeing to deliver contraband, including tobacco, to a particular inmate (“Inmate-1”), who was housed in the section of the AMKC to which ALBA typically was assigned during his tours of duty in return for cash bribes. ALBA obtained the contraband from an individual in the Bronx (“CC-1”), who arranged the deliveries in coded conversations with Inmate-1 that occurred over recorded prison phone calls. ALBA made these contraband deliveries from at least December 2018 until July 2019, in return for at least $5,000 in cash bribes.
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ALBA, 30, of Queens, New York, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress, and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. ALBA is scheduled to be sentenced by United States District Judge Lorna G. Schofield on a date to be determined.
Ms. Strauss praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and DOI.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Lara Pomerantz and Jarrod L. Schaeffer are in charge of the prosecution.
Former Missouri Resident Pleads Guilty to Charges Related to Vehicle Odometer Roll Back SchemeRead the Press Release
WILFRED J. ALBANESE, 49, formerly of Waterbury, Connecticut and Blue Springs, Missouri, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to fraud and identity theft offenses stemming from the sale of numerous used vehicles with altered odometers.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between approximately August 2014 and October 2015, Albanese, while residing in Missouri, sold approximately 48 vehicles with altered odometers to unsuspecting purchasers. As part of the scheme, Albanese purchased high-mileage used vehicles and then used a variety of means to alter or reduce the mileage shown on the vehicles’ odometers. He also concealed mechanical issues with those vehicles by removing “check engine” lights from the instrument panels, providing buyers with phony maintenance receipts and vehicle history reports, and concealing rust and other damage to the vehicle through paint or other means. Albanese obtained Certificates of Title for the used vehicles he purchased. Under the assumed identities of the persons listed on those Certificates of Title, he advertised and sold the vehicles to customers on Craigslist.org. Most of the victim purchasers resided in Missouri.
On May 22, 2019, a grand jury in the Western District of Missouri returned a 20-count indictment charging Albanese and his accomplice with offenses related to this scheme. Albanese was located and arrested in New London, Connecticut, on July 18, 2019. The case was subsequently transferred from the Western District of Missouri to the District of Connecticut for further prosecution.
Albanese, who has been detained since his arrest, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of at least two years. Judge Shea scheduled sentencing for October 9, 2020.
This matter has been investigated by the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Office of Odometer Fraud Investigation, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha Freismuth of the District of Connecticut, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Casey of the Western District of Missouri.
NHTSA estimates that odometer fraud in the U.S. results in consumer losses of more than $1 billion annually. Individuals with information relating to odometer tampering should call NHTSA’s odometer fraud hotline at (888) 327-4236 or (202) 366-4761. More information on odometer fraud is available on the NHTSA website at https://www.nhtsa.gov/odometer-fraud.
Former Lincoln Daycare Worker Pleads Guilty to Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Titus J. Miller, age 27, of Lincoln, Nebraska, entered a plea of guilty today in federal court in Lincoln before United States Magistrate Judge Cheryl R. Zwart for producing child pornography. Miller admitted to the sexual exploitation of five children between August 17, and October 15, 2019. Magistrate Judge Zwart set Miller’s sentencing for October 15, 2020, at 12:00 p.m., before Senior United States District Judge Richard G. Kopf. Miller faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 on each count. After release from any imprisonment, Miller would be subject to a term of supervised release of not less than five years and up to life and will also be required to register as a sex offender.
Miller was employed at Playful Painters Daycare, located in Lincoln. Miller worked at night and was a supervisor at the daycare. During the time periods of the Indictment, Miller produced videos of minor victims, with ages ranging from 4 to 6 years old, engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Miller used a cellular phone to produce the videos and transported some of the videos to a person in Alabama.
United States Attorney Kelly expressed his appreciation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lincoln Police Department for their thorough investigation upon receiving notification of children being placed at risk of being sexually abused.
FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Kristi Johnson said today, “Titus Miller’s sexual abuse of 5 innocent children is an especially heinous crime. The FBI will use all its investigative strength to bring those who exploit children to justice. The FBI’s Lincoln office, together with the Lincoln Police department, worked tirelessly on the investigation which has now concluded with Miller’s guilty plea.”
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lincoln Police Department.
Former Honolulu police officer sentenced to four years for committing civil rights offensesRead the Press Release
HONOLULU, Hawaii – John Rabago, 44, of Honolulu, Hawaii, was sentenced today in federal court by U.S. District Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi to 48 months of imprisonment for his role in violating an individual’s constitutional rights. In December 2019, Rabago pled guilty to one count of conspiring to deprive a person of his civil rights, and to one count of acting under color of law to deprive the same individual of his rights.
U.S. Attorney Kenji M. Price for the District of Hawaii stated that according to court documents and information presented in court, on January 28, 2018, while working as on-duty officers, Rabago and Reginald Ramones conspired to force an individual to lick a urinal in a public bathroom. According to court documents, in a separate and unrelated incident prior to January 2018, Rabago made another individual place his head in a public bathroom toilet in order to avoid arrest.
“The defendant’s egregious conduct in this case is out-of-step with the tremendous work performed by police officers every day in Honolulu. I commend the work that our dedicated police officers do day-in and day-out to protect our communities. Prosecutions like these show that a uniform and a badge will not insulate those who violate the civil rights of others from the long arm of the law,” said U.S Attorney Price.
“The FBI is committed to ensuring the protection of the civil rights of all citizens regardless of class, status, or creed,” said Special Agent in Charge Eli S. Miranda of the FBI’s Honolulu Field Office.
Rabago’s co-defendant, Ramones, previously pled guilty to misprision of a felony and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 22, 2020.
This case was investigated by the Honolulu Division of the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Timothy Visser of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Brady for the District of Hawaii.
Former Federal Corrections Officer Sentenced for Lying to Federal AuthoritiesRead the Press Release
RICHMOND - A former corrections officer with the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Federal Correctional Institution in Petersburg was sentenced yesterday to 54 months in prison for willfully making false statements to federal agents during a federal criminal civil rights investigation.
On February 12, a federal jury convicted Chikosi Legins, 41, of willfully making materially false statements to federal investigators during their investigation of allegations that Legins had sexually assaulted a prisoner, B.L., on two occasions. Specifically, the jury found that Legins falsely denied that he had engaged in a sexual act with any inmate at any time at FCI-Petersburg, and that Legins lied about what he was doing with B.L. in an unattended office in the prison at the time B.L. said that Legins had assaulted him. The jury acquitted Legins of one count of depriving B.L. of his civil rights, one count of aggravated sexual assault, and two counts of sexual abuse of a ward.
“Legins abused the power and authority of his office to mislead law enforcement,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “When confronted by federal agents about alleged abuses, he lied - repeatedly and emphatically. His abuse and obstruction were a complete rejection of his law enforcement oath, and this prosecution and today's sentence demonstrate our commitment to protecting all members of our society.”
“The Department of Justice will ensure that those who willfully mislead officers to prevent justice for victims of civil rights violations are prosecuted,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division.
“Legins lied to investigators in an attempt to cover up the truth. Today, justice is served. He will rightly serve time for his willful attempt to impede a civil rights investigation,” said Russell W. Cunningham, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Washington Field Office.
The jury heard evidence that, on one occasion, Legins took B.L. into an unmonitored, unstaffed office area of the prison after staff in the office had left for the day. Legins told federal investigators that he and B.L. were engaged in “conversation” while Legins tried to use a computer and printer in the office, but a BOP computer expert testified that computer records showed that no one had attempted to use the computer in question at that time. Evidence presented at trial included the testimony of a DNA expert, who testified that DNA matching Legins had been recovered from the victim and from the victim’s clothing.
This case was investigated by the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General and FBI’s Richmond Division, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas A. Garnett and Trial Attorney Kathryn E. Gilbert of the Civil Rights Division.
Former Federal Corrections Officer Sentenced for Lying to Federal AuthoritiesRead the Press Release
A former corrections officer with the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Federal Correctional Institution in Petersburg, Virginia (FCI-Petersburg), was sentenced Tuesday to 54 months in prison for willfully making false statements to federal agents during a federal criminal civil rights investigation, announced the Department of Justice.
On Feb. 12, 2020, a federal jury convicted Chikosi Legins, 41, of willfully making materially false statements to federal investigators during their investigation of allegations that Legins had sexually assaulted a prisoner, B.L., on two occasions. Specifically, the jury found that Legins falsely denied that he had engaged in a sexual act with any inmate at any time at FCI-Petersburg, and that Legins lied about what he was doing with B.L. in an unattended office in the prison at the time B.L. said that Legins had assaulted him. The jury acquitted Legins of one count of depriving B.L. of his civil rights, one count of aggravated sexual assault, and two counts of sexual abuse of a ward.
“The Department of Justice will ensure that those who willfully mislead officers to prevent justice for victims of civil rights violations are prosecuted,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division.
“Legins abused the power and authority of his office to mislead law enforcement,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “When confronted by federal agents about alleged abuses, he lied - repeatedly and emphatically. His abuse and obstruction were a complete rejection of his law enforcement oath, and this prosecution and today's sentence demonstrate our commitment to protecting all members of our society.”
“Legins lied to investigators in an attempt to cover up the truth. Today, justice is served. He will rightly serve time for his willful attempt to impede a civil rights investigation,” said Russell W. Cunningham, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Washington Field Office.
The jury heard evidence that, on one occasion, Legins took B.L. into an unmonitored, unstaffed office area of the prison after staff in the office had left for the day. Legins told federal investigators that he and B.L. were engaged in “conversation” while Legins tried to use a computer and printer in the office, but a BOP computer expert testified that computer records showed that no one had attempted to use the computer in question at that time. Evidence presented at trial included the testimony of a DNA expert, who testified that DNA matching Legins had been recovered from the victim and from the victim’s clothing.
This case was investigated by the Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General and FBI’s Richmond Division, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas A. Garnett and Trial Attorney Kathryn E. Gilbert of the Civil Rights Division.
Former Chicago Police Officer Sentenced to Nearly Six Years in Federal Prison for Fraudulently Obtaining Search Warrants and Obstructing JusticeRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A former Chicago Police officer was sentenced today to nearly six years in federal prison for fraudulently obtaining search warrants and stealing cash and drugs from properties he searched.
U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Kennelly imposed the 71-month sentence on DAVID SALGADO after a hearing in federal court in Chicago. Last month, Judge Kennelly sentenced Salgado’s former Chicago Police partner, XAVIER ELIZONDO, to seven years and three months in prison.
The sentences were announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; and Emmerson Buie, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of the FBI. The Chicago Police Department provided valuable assistance.
Salgado, 39, and Elizondo, 48, both of Chicago, were assigned to a gang team in the Chicago Police Department’s Tenth District. The officers conspired to submit materially false information to state court judges to fraudulently obtain search warrants that enabled them to enter various properties and seize cash and drugs. The officers would then steal the items and falsify police reports to conceal the thefts.
A jury in October 2019 convicted Elizondo and Salgado on all counts against them, including conspiracy to commit theft, deprivation of civil rights, embezzlement, and obstruction of justice. Salgado was also convicted of making a false statement to the FBI.
“The defendants fundamentally betrayed the trust placed in them by the public and the state’s criminal justice system,” Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean J.B. Franzblau and Ankur Srivastava argued in the government’s joint sentencing memorandum. “The defendants not only harmed individual victims, but they also impaired the public’s confidence in law enforcement.”
Former CEO of Lancaster County Oil & Gas Company Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for $65 Million Bank FraudRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Jeffrey Lyons, 59, of Lancaster, PA was sentenced to fourteen years in prison, and ordered to pay restitution of $53 million to Fulton Bank and $550,000 to the IRS, by Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl for orchestrating a massive bank fraud scheme over many years.
In October 2019, Lyons, the former CEO of Worley & Obetz, pleaded guilty to one count of defrauding Fulton Bank of over $65 million between 2003 and 2018. Lyons also pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion. The defendant admitted that he, along with Worley & Obetz’s two controllers, Karen Connelly and Judith Avilez, committed bank fraud by providing Fulton Bank with dozens of fraudulent financial statements and a fraudulently altered supply agreement between Worley & Obetz and its largest customer, Giant Food. Worley & Obetz was an oil and gas company in Manheim, PA, that provided services and home heating oil, gasoline, diesel, and propane to its customers.
Lyons enlisted the help of the Worley & Obetz controllers to create the fraudulent financial statements, making it appear to the bank and the company’s owners that it had over $55 million in accounts receivable from Giant Food for purported fuel that Giant had supposedly purchased from Worley & Obetz. In truth, Giant rarely purchased fuel from Worley & Obetz after 2011, and when they did, it was in small amounts. The falsified financial statements made Worley & Obetz appear to have millions more revenue and accounts receivable than it did. Each month, for more than fifteen years, Lyons and the company controllers created false Worley & Obetz financial statements, which Lyons presented to Fulton Bank in support of his request for additional loans or extensions on existing lines of credit. Fulton Bank relied on the fraudulent financial statements when it lent Worley & Obetz over $65 million.
Lyons used the Fulton loans to pay Worley & Obetz expenses, which included his annual salary of over $500,000. He also used the borrowed money to make Worley & Obetz appear profitable when it was actually operating at a loss, to pay interest on the earlier loans he borrowed from Fulton, and to fund some of his personal expenses including real estate worth millions. Additionally, from 2012 through 2017, Lyons failed to report over $1.4 million of income to the IRS.
After Lyons’ scheme was discovered, Worley & Obetz and its related companies did not have the assets to repay the massive amount of Fulton loans that Lyons had accumulated. In June 2018, Worley & Obetz declared bankruptcy. It notified its approximately 275 employees that they no longer had jobs and, after 72 years, the family-owned company closed its doors forever. As a result of Lyons’ fraud, many in the Manheim, PA community suffered greatly – both financially and emotionally.
“The scope and duration of the fraud committed by Lyons is simply stunning,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “He stole tens of millions of dollars from bank lenders, all while willfully ignoring his fiduciary duty to the company and the hundreds of people who made their livelihoods working there. This case is a tragedy for the many honest, hardworking people who placed their trust in Lyons. My Office will continue to work aggressively with our law enforcement partners to protect innocent individuals and businesses from being victimized by financial fraud.”
“Over the course of 15 years, at Jeffrey Lyons’ direction, financial records were repeatedly falsified to inflate his company’s revenue,” said Michael J. Driscoll, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “This long-running scheme helped prop Lyons up both personally and professionally, as Worley & Obetz amassed millions upon millions in fraudulent loans. In the end, though, his actions bankrupted the business, cost hundreds of innocent people their jobs, and have landed Lyons in federal prison. The FBI is committed to holding accountable anyone engaged in such egregious financial fraud.”
“Mr. Lyons willfully and intentionally violated his known legal duty to file a correct tax return and pay his fair share of taxes,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso. “His failure to report all of his income is a violation of tax laws; one that the courts do not take lightly, as evidenced by the sentence handed down today.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, IRS Criminal Investigations, and Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tiwana Wright.
Felon and Marijuana Grower Sentenced to a Year in Federal Prison for Unlawfully Possessing GunsRead the Press Release
A convicted felon, illegal user of controlled substances, and marijuana grower who unlawfully possessed two guns was sentenced today to a year in federal prison.
Brian Anderson, age 52, from New Hartford, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 9, 2019 guilty plea to being a felon and an unlawful user of controlled substances in possession of a firearm.
Information at sentencing showed that law enforcement searched Anderson’s home in New Hartford in June 2018. Officers were initially searching the home looking for endangered rattlesnakes that Anderson allegedly possessed. During the search, officers found the body of one dead rattlesnake. But officers also found a marijuana grow operation, including over 120 marijuana plants, and two guns nearby. Anderson was prohibited from possessing guns because he had previously been convicted of the felony offense of manufacturing marijuana and possessing marijuana with the intent to distribute. He also had a previous conviction for illegally possessing two handguns.
Anderson was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Anderson was sentenced to 12 months’ and one day in prison. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Waterloo Police Department, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-cr-3054.
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Fayetteville Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Fayetteville man was sentenced today to 120 months in prison for Cocaine Base (Crack), Marijuana, and Firearm crimes.
According to court documents, Joey Eduardo Ayala, 37, pled guilty to Distribution of 28 Grams or More of Cocaine Base (Crack), Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Quantity of Marijuana, and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime on March 11, 2020.
On February 17, 2018, an agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) met with a confidential informant (CI) who provided information about Ayala’s cocaine and crack sales. The CI also stated he observed Ayala possessing a handgun during his drug transactions.
A joint investigation with the Fayetteville Police Department (FPD), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) began utilizing this CI to make multiple controlled purchases from Ayala. On ten separate occasions, Ayala sold controlled substances to the confidential informant, including cocaine, cocaine base (crack), methamphetamine, and marijuana.
On March 28, 2018, the Florence County South Carolina Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Ayala. The rental vehicle was emitting a strong odor of air freshener that was placed around the gearshift. The officer also noticed a large sum of U.S. currency in the center console. Ayala gave law enforcement consent to search the vehicle. Inside the vehicle was $34,200 in U.S. currency, 0.5 grams of crack cocaine, and 2 grams of marijuana.
On March 13, 2019, Ayala was observed leaving his residence. Agents conducted a traffic stop and informed Ayala that there was a warrant for his arrest and for a search of his residence. Subsequent to arrest, Ayala stated that there was marijuana in the vehicle. Ayala admitted buying ounce quantities of cocaine and pound quantities of marijuana. Ayala reiterated that there was marijuana and a handgun in the vehicle. Lastly, Ayala stated he had a “few pounds” of marijuana at the residence and a small amount of cocaine.
A search of the vehicle revealed: two cell phones, a .40 caliber handgun, marijuana, and cocaine.
A search of Ayala’s residence found: cocaine, marijuana, suspected MDMA (methamphetamine) pills, U.S. currency, a money counter, a vacuum sealer and bags, digital scales, and a 9mm handgun. According to the agent, a search of the vehicle and the residence found a total of two ounces of cocaine (56.7 grams), 16 pounds of marijuana (7.2576 kilograms), approximately 1 ounce (28.35 grams) of MDMA, two firearms (noted above), and $6,500 in U.S. currency.
Based on the investigation, from February 2016 to March 13, 2019, Ayala is conservatively accountable for 1,336.6 grams of cocaine, 75.89 grams of cocaine base (crack), 54.298 grams of methamphetamine, 28.35 grams of MDMA, and 12.1451 kilograms of marijuana. Additionally, Ayala possessed a firearm in connection with his drug trafficking activities.
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 ATF, FBI, Fayetteville Police Department, and the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott A. Lemmon prosecuted 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. 5:19-cr-00473-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.
Eleven defendants charged in Hawaii federal court with racketeering and other offensesRead the Press Release
HONOLULU, Hawaii – Kenji M. Price, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Hawaii, Eli S. Miranda, Special Agent in Charge of the Honolulu Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Tom Murdock, Special Agent in Charge of the Seattle Field Office of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (“IRS-CI”), Josh Allen, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Office of the Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigative Division (“EPA-CID”), Lucia Cabral-Dearmas, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Honolulu Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), and Aaron Joseph, Regional Agent in Charge of the Seattle Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”) announced the unsealing of a Superseding Indictment today charging MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR., and 10 other defendants with racketeering conspiracy and other offenses. The Superseding Indictment includes charges against MISKE for his role in the kidnapping and murder of 21-year-old Johnathan Fraser in July 2016.
A prior Indictment, which charged MISKE and another defendant with participation in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy, was also unsealed today.
Eight of the defendants were arrested today. One defendant has not been arrested and remains at large. Two of the defendants, LANCE BERMUDEZ and DAE HAN MOON, were already in state custody. The case has been assigned to United States District Judge Derrick K. Watson.
As alleged in the Superseding Indictment unsealed today in Hawaii federal court[1]:
From at least in or about the late 1990s, up to and including the date of the Superseding Indictment, MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR., aka “Bro,” JOHN B. STANCIL, KAULANA FREITAS, aka “Shorty,” LANCE L. BERMUDEZ, aka “Hammah,” DEA HAN MOON, aka “Dayday,” PRESTON M. KIMOTO, HARRY K. KAUHI, aka “Harry Boy,” NORMAN L. AKAU III, HUNTER J. WILSON, and JARRIN K. YOUNG, the defendants, and others known and unknown, conspired to conduct and participate in the conduct of the affairs of a racketeering enterprise, the “Miske Enterprise,” through a pattern of racketeering activity. The racketeering activity included acts involving murder, kidnapping, arson, and robbery. It also included acts relating to murder-for-hire, chemical weapons, extortionate credit transactions, racketeering, interference with commerce through robbery and extortion, drug trafficking, wire fraud, fraud in connection with identification documents, financial institution fraud, the Currency and Foreign Transactions Reporting Act, money laundering, and obstruction of justice.
From at least in or about March 2016 and continuing to on or about July 30, 2016, MISKE conspired with others to kidnap and murder 21-year-old Johnathan Fraser. In March 2016, MISKE instructed a co-conspirator to develop a plan for kidnapping and murdering Fraser, and told that co-conspirator that he/she could name the price for carrying out the murder. In or about June 2016, MISKE arranged for the purchase of a Boston Whaler vessel that could be used to dump Fraser’s body into the ocean after Fraser was kidnapped and killed. On or about July 30, 2016, Fraser was kidnapped and killed. On that same day, another of MISKE’s co-conspirators took Fraser’s significant other on a “spa day,” thereby ensuring that Fraser and his significant other would be separated from each other when Fraser was kidnapped.
MISKE and other members and associates of the Miske Enterprise participated in various other acts of violence:
- In or about 2016, MISKE, STANCIL, BERMUDEZ, MOON, and KAUHI conspired to commit the murder-for-hire of an individual (“Victim-1”) whom MISKE suspected of cooperating with law enforcement.
- On or about May 23, 2017, MISKE and STANCIL attempted to cause the death of another person (“Victim-2”) and committed an assault of Victim-2, and did so using at least one firearm.
- From the late 1990s and continuing to in or about 2018, MISKE, STANCIL, BUNTENBAH, and others known and unknown, conspired to commit assaults in aid of racketeering.
- In or about October 2017, MISKE, KIMOTO, and others known and unknown conspired to kidnap another person (“Victim-3”) in Honolulu, Hawaii. Two of MISKE’s co-conspirators, acting on MISKE’s instructions, kidnapped Victim-3 in Honolulu and restrained him/her in their vehicle.
- In or about 2016, STANCIL, BERMUDEZ, KAUHI, and AKAU participated in a gunpoint robbery of another person (“Victim-4”) during which they robbed Victim-4 of methamphetamine.
- On or about August 24, 2016, BERMUDEZ and WILSON participated in a gunpoint robbery of another person (“Victim-5”) during which they robbed Victim-5 of controlled substances.
In or about March 2017, MISKE, STANCIL, and FREITAS, and others known and unknown, conspired to release a chemical weapon, namely, chloropicrin, into nightclubs in Honolulu, Hawaii. As part of this conspiracy, chloropicrin was released into two different nightclubs.
Multiple defendants conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including methamphetamine, cocaine, oxycodone, and marijuana.
Between on or about April 21, 2017 and July 3, 2017, MISKE and others participated in a scheme to defraud Bank of Hawaii through the preparation and submission of materially false documents as part of loan applications.
* * *
Charts containing the name, ages, charges, and maximum penalties for the defendants are set forth below. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Price praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI, IRS-CI, EPA-CID, HSI, and ATF. He also thanked the Honolulu Police Department for the work of personnel who participated in this matter in their role as Task Force Officers with the FBI, and thanked the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Coast Guard Investigative Service, the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, the Hawaii National Guard, 93rd Civil Support Team, and the Office of Investigations–Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration for their assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Nammar, Micah Smith, and Mark A. Inciong are in charge of the prosecution. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marion Percell is in charge of the forfeiture component of the case.
The charges contained in the Superseding Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
COUNT
CHARGE
DEFENDANT(s) (AGE)
MAX. PENALTIES
1Racketeering conspiracy
18 U.S.C. §1962(d)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR. (46)
JOHN B. STANCIL (32)
KAULANA FREITAS (32)
LANCE L. BERMUDEZ (29)
DAE HAN MOON (24)
PRESTON M. KIMOTO (41)
HARRY K. KAUHI (47)
NORMAN L. AKAU III (47)
HUNTER J. WILSON (26)
JARRIN K. YOUNG (26)
20 years in prison2
Murder in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. § 1959(a)(1)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
Mandatory minimum of life in prison or death3
Conspiracy to Commit Murder in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. § 1959(a)(5)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
10 years in prison
4
Murder-for-Hire Conspiracy Resulting in Death
18 U.S.C. § 1958
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
Mandatory minimum of life in prison or death5
Kidnapping Using a Facility of Interstate Commerce Resulting in Death
18 U.S.C. § 1201(a)(1)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
Life in prison or death 6Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping Using a Facility of Interstate Commerce
18 U.S.C. § 1201(c)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR. Life in prison or death 7Murder-for-Hire Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1958
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
JOHN B. STANCIL
LANCE L. BERMUDEZ
DAE HAN MOON
HARRY K. KAUHI 10 years in prison 8Assault and Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 1959(a)(5)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
JOHN B. STANCIL 20 years in prison 9Firearm Offense
18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(iii)MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
JOHN B. STANCILLife in prison
Mandatory consecutive term of 10 years in prison
10Conspiracy to Commit Assaults in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. § 1959(a)(6)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
MICHAEL J. BUNTENBAH (48) Three years in prison 11Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping Using a Facility of Interstate Commerce
18 U.S.C. § 1201(c)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
PRESTON M. KIMOTO Life in prison 12Conspiracy to Use a Chemical Weapon
18 U.S.C. § 229(a)(2)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
JOHN B. STANCIL
KAULANA FREITAS Life in prison 13Use of a Chemical Weapon
18 U.S.C. § 229(a)(1)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
JOHN B. STANCIL
KAULANA FREITAS Life in prison 14Use of a Chemical Weapon
18 U.S.C. § 229(a)(1)
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
JOHN B. STANCIL Life in prison 15Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute Cocaine
21 U.S.C. § 846
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
MICHAEL J. BUNTENBAHLife in prison
Mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison
16Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances
21 U.S.C. § 846
MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR.
JOHN B. STANCIL
KAULANA FREITAS
LANCE L. BERMUDEZ
DAE HAN MOON
PRESTON M. KIMOTO
MICHAEL J. BUNTENBAH
HARRY K. KAUHI
NORMAN L. AKAU III
HUNTER J. WILSON
JARRIN K. YOUNGLife in prison
Mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison
17Firearm Offense
18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i)
JOHN B. STANCIL
LANCE L. BERMUDEZ
HARRY K. KAUHI
NORMAN L. AKAU III
HUNTER J. WILSON
JARRIN K. YOUNGLife in prison
Mandatory consecutive term of five years in prison
18Hobbs Act Robbery
18 U.S.C. § 1951JOHN B. STANCIL
LANCE L. BERMUDEZ
HARRY K. KAUHI
NORMAN L. AKAU III 20 years in prison 19Firearm Offense
18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii)
JOHN B. STANCIL
LANCE L. BERMUDEZ
HARRY K. KAUHI
NORMAN L. AKAU III Mandatory consecutive term of seven years in prison 20Hobbs Act Robbery
18 U.S.C. § 1951
LANCE L. BERMUDEZ
HUNTER J. WILSON Mandatory consecutive term of seven years in prison 21Firearm Offense
18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii)
LANCE L. BERMUDEZ
HUNTER J. WILSON Mandatory consecutive term of seven years in prison 22Bank Fraud
18 U.S.C. § 1344(2) MICHAEL J. MISKE, JR. 30 years in prison
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Superseding Indictment constitutes only allegations, and every fact described herein should be treated as an allegation.
Eight Arrested in Connection with Jake’s Fireworks Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas - U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Cox announced today that eight individuals have been arrested in the Eastern District of Texas pursuant to a federal indictment which alleges drug and money laundering violations.
A federal grand jury returned the 24-count indictment on June 3, 2020, charging the following individuals with drug trafficking and money laundering crimes:
Jake Ellis Daughtry, 34, of Nederland, Texas;
Joseph Ellis Daughtry, 64, of Nederland;
Kip William Daughtry, 46, of Vidor, Texas;
Sandra Miller Daughtry, 72, of Nederland;
Jordan Lee King, 31, of Nederland;
Tanner John Jorgensen, 28, of Nederland;
Austin Wayne Dial, 28, of Nederland; and
Jesse Lee Hackett, 37, of The Woodlands, Texas.
The defendants were arrested by a joint law enforcement task force today and will make initial appearances in federal court this afternoon, July 15, 2020, and tomorrow, July 16, 2020. A ninth defendant is already in custody.
According to court documents, the defendants are charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, a controlled substance analogue resulting in death; conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, a date rape drug over the internet to an unauthorized purchaser; maintaining a drug-involved premises; possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, a controlled substance analogue; and money laundering.
The defendants are alleged to be the head of a Chemical Trafficking Organization (“CTO”) cell operating on a national scale. Investigation of the organization began in 2018 when DEA West Palm Beach, Florida intercepted mail parcels of a chemical identified as 1,4 butanediol, commonly referred to as “BDO.” BDO is a chemical manufactured only for industrial or laboratory use as a floor stripper or vehicle wheel cleaner and is not intended for human consumption. Investigators determined that when BDO is ingested, it immediately metabolizes into GHB (a known date-rape drug) with the same effects, causing potential overdoses, addiction, and death.
DEA traced the seized parcels to their origination point, Right Price Chemicals, a business located on Twin City Highway in Nederland, Texas, and owned by Jake Daughtry, Joe Daughtry and Sandra Daughtry. Also located at Right Price Chemicals is a seasonal fireworks business called “Jake’s Fireworks.” Agents determined that since 2016, Right Price Chemicals has distributed approximately 7,000 gallons of BDO over thousands of orders, and that those sales generated $4.5 million.
Agents additionally determined that Jake’s Fireworks operated as a front for Right Price Chemicals, allowing individuals to purchase BDO on a walk-in basis. Customers could also obtain BDO from Jake’s Fireworks through internet orders, and have the chemical shipped to their home. Right Price Chemicals also distributed bulk quantities BDO to mid-level dealers, who, in turn, sold or distributed the chemical to users. Investigators determined that at least two deaths—one in Virginia and one in Florida—were directly caused by BDO sold by Right Price Chemicals. Right Price Chemicals distributed BDO in 48 states across the country.
Investigators have also determined that the proceeds from the distribution and sale of BDO, which total over $1 million, have been laundered through several bank and retirement accounts throughout Southeast Texas. Those accounts have now been seized.
If convicted of the criminal charges, the defendants face a minimum term of 20 years, and up to life, in federal prison.
In addition to pursuing criminal charges, on July 13, 2020, the Eastern District sought and obtained a temporary restraining order against Jake’s Fireworks and any other businesses housed within the Twin City Highway location in Nederland. This civil injunctive relief immediately shuts down operations of the business and any further distribution of BDO and other chemicals. Jake Daughtry, Joe Daughtry, Sandra Daughtry, and Kip Daughtry also face civil penalties under the Controlled Substance Act.
“I am proud of our team’s investigation and interdiction of this dangerous chemical trafficking organization,” said U.S. Attorney Steve Cox. “The joint efforts of our Criminal and Civil Divisions led to the arrest of suspected drug traffickers, the seizure of bank accounts, and the shutdown of a suspected drug front, making the Eastern District of Texas a safer place for all.”
“The DEA Miami and Houston Field Divisions combined forces to target and neutralize a Chemical Trafficking Organization that was responsible for the nationwide distribution of a chemical product, that when consumed, is immediately metabolized into GHB. This chemical, often used by sexual predators as a date-rape drug, can cause overdose, addiction and death,” stated DEA Special Agent in Charge Steven S. Whipple. “This investigation highlights DEA’s commitment to the protection of our communities by working alongside our state, federal and local law enforcement partners to identify the most significant threats to the public safety.”
This is an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) case and is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration West Palm Beach, Florida, and Beaumont; United States Postal Service; Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. Essential support and coordination was provided by numerous components of DEA headquarters and the Department of Justice’s multi-agency Special Operations Division (SOD), including assigned attorneys from the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle S. Englade and Robert Wells.
An indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
East Hartford Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that HANEEF BROOKS, 41, of East Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Victor A. Bolden to one count of possession for a firearm by a convicted felon.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the guilty plea proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2019, after a spate of gun violence in Hartford, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, DEA, Hartford Police Department and other law enforcement agencies initiated an investigation targeting gang-related drug distribution and associated violence in north Hartford.
On July 15, 2019, investigators conducted a controlled purchase of a 7.62x39mm Norinco SKS rifle from Brooks for $300. Prior to that date, Brooks was convicted in state court of felony weapon possession and drug offenses.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Brooks was arrested on September 13, 2019.
At sentencing, which is not scheduled, Brooks faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
Brooks is released on a $30,000 bond pending sentencing.
The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer R. Laraia.
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.
Des Moines Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Des Moines, Iowa—On July 10, 2020, Vance Allan Misel, age 31, of Des Moines, appeared before United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger and was sentenced to nine years in prison for possession of child pornography with eight years of supervised release to follow his prison term. Misel pleaded guilty to the offense on April 13, 2020. Misel was also ordered by the Court to pay $1,000 restitution and a $100 special assessment.
Misel was found to have possessed more than 150 images of child pornography and to have obstructed justice by deleting images of child pornography upon learning of a search warrant being executed at his residence. During the investigation, law enforcement located on-line postings of Misel, in which, Misel expressed a desire to engage in sexual abuse of minor females and to exchange child pornography, among other things.
This matter was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations with assistance of the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney's office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Department of Justice Seeks Recovery of Approximately $3.5 Million in Corruption Proceeds Linked to Ex-President of the GambiaRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice filed a civil forfeiture complaint seeking the forfeiture of a Maryland property acquired with approximately $3,500,000 in corruption proceeds by the ex-president of The Gambia, Yahya Jammeh, through a trust set up by his wife, Zineb Jammeh.
According to the complaint, Yahya Jammeh corruptly obtained millions of dollars through the embezzlement of public funds and the solicitation of bribes from businesses seeking to obtain monopoly rights over various sectors of the Gambian economy. The complaint further alleges that Yahya Jammeh conspired with his family members and close associates to utilize a host of shell companies and overseas trusts to launder his corrupt proceeds throughout the world, including through the purchase of a multimillion-dollar mansion in Potomac, Maryland, which the United States seeks to forfeit through the filing of the civil forfeiture complaint.
“Yahya Jammeh is a former president of The Gambia who allegedly plundered hundreds of millions of dollars from his country and laundered part of those funds to corruptly acquire real estate in the United States,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt. “Our action today highlights the tireless work of the Criminal Division’s Kleptocracy Initiative and their global law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of the U.S. financial system and recover the ill-gotten gains of corrupt officials.”
“Ex-Gambian President Yahya Jammeh and his wife thought that they could hide funds stolen from the Gambian people by buying a mansion in Potomac, Maryland,” said U.S. Attorney Robert K. Hur for the District of Maryland. “This action demonstrates that the United States will not allow criminals to profit from their crimes and will seek justice for crime victims both here and abroad.”
“The seizure of this property is just another example of our continued efforts to protect the U.S. financial infrastructure by denying a safe haven for foreign kleptocrats,” said Acting Executive Associate Director Alysa Erichs of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “HSI will not tolerate our country being used by foreign officials to hide their corrupt activities and launder their illicit proceeds.”
The investigation was conducted by HSI’s Illicit Proceeds and Foreign Corruption Group in Miami, with the assistance of the HSI Office of the Special Agent in Charge for Baltimore and the HSI Attaché Office in Dakar. HSI established this group in 2003 to conduct investigations into the laundering of proceeds emanating from foreign public corruption, bribery and embezzlement. HSI’s goal is to prevent foreign-derived, ill-gotten gains from entering the U.S. financial infrastructure.
The case is being handled by Trial Attorneys Steven Parker and Kaycee Sullivan of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Wine for the District of Maryland. Substantial assistance was provided by the government of The Gambia and Michael Quinley of the Criminal Division’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance, and Training.
HSI Miami Illicit Proceeds and Foreign Corruption Investigations Group was established in 2003 to target corrupt foreign officials around the world that attempt to utilize U.S. financial institutions to launder illicit funds. Since inception, the group has seized over $500 million in ill-gotten gains traced to foreign corruption. To report suspicious activity, reach out to your local HSI office or call 1-866-347-2423.
The Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative is led by a team of dedicated prosecutors in the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, in partnership with federal law enforcement agencies, and often with U.S. Attorney’s Offices, to forfeit the proceeds of foreign official corruption and, where appropriate, to use those recovered assets to benefit the people harmed by these acts of corruption and abuse of office.
A civil forfeiture complaint is merely an allegation that money or property was involved in or represents the proceeds of a crime. These allegations are not proven until a court awards judgment in favor of the United States.
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.
Departamento de justicia anuncia operación contra líderes clave de grupo criminal MS-13Read the Press Release
Hoy, el presidente Donald J. Trump y el fiscal general William P. Barr anunciaron casos importantes relacionados con la Fuerza de Tarea Conjunta Vulcano (JTFV), una iniciativa lanzada en agosto de 2019 destinada a detener, desmantelar y, en última instancia, destruir a la MS-13.
El presidente Trump y el fiscal general Barr anunciaron varios casos importantes relacionados con la Operación Vulcano, entre ellos la primera vez que un miembro de la MS-13 ha sido acusado de un delito relacionado con el terrorismo, la eliminación coordinada y multidistrital del liderazgo de la clica de Hollywood de la MS-13 y la decisión del fiscal general de solicitar la pena de muerte contra un acusado de la MS-13.
“El Presidente ordenó al Departamento de Justicia que fuera a la guerra contra la MS-13 en el 2017, nosotros lo hicimos”, dijo el Fiscal General Barr. “En coordinación con nuestros socios en el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional, los componentes de aplicación de la ley del Departamento de Justicia han investigado con éxito los elementos de mando y control de la MS-13 responsables de asesinato. Las operaciones de la Fuerza de Tarea Conjunta Vulcano han degradado significativamente las capacidades del MS-13. Aunque todavía queda trabajo por hacer, el Departamento de Justicia sigue comprometido con la protección de los estadounidenses amenazados por la MS-13, y no descansaremos hasta que hayamos derrotado con éxito a esta organización criminal transnacional”.
“Los anuncios de ahora son el resultado del tremendo trabajo en equipo y la coordinación entre los fiscales y los agentes de la ley en los Estados Unidos y América Central”, dijo el director de JTFV, John Durham. “La MS-13 es una organización criminal transnacional violenta, cuyas actividades criminales no respetan límites. La única forma de derrotar al MS-13 es atacando a la organización como un todo, enfocándose en la estructura de liderazgo y desplegando un enfoque de gobierno completo contra un enemigo común”.
En una acusación dada a conocer ayer, Melgar Díaz fue acusado en el Distrito Este de Virginia de conspirar para proporcionar apoyo material a terroristas; conspirando para matar o mutilar personas en el extranjero; conspirando para cometer actos de terrorismo trascendiendo las fronteras nacionales; conspirando para financiar el terrorismo; y conspirando para involucrarse en el narcoterrorismo, además de la conspiración del crimen organizado y el narcotráfico. Esta es la primera vez que un miembro de MS-13 ha sido acusado de delitos relacionados con el terrorismo.
Alexi Sáenz fue acusado en 2017 en el Distrito Este de Nueva York. Se alega que entre 2016 y 2017 cometió siete asesinatos: el asesinato del 28 de enero de 2016 de Michael Johnson; el asesinato de Oscar Acosta el 29 de abril de 2016, los asesinatos de Kayla Cuevas y Nisa Mickens el 13 de septiembre de 2016; el asesinato de Javier Castillo el 10 de octubre de 2016; el asesinato de Dewann Stacks el 13 de octubre de 2016, y el asesinato de Esteban Alvarado-Bonilla el 30 de enero de 2017. Dos de las víctimas eran estudiantes de secundaria de Brentwood asesinados con un machete y un bate de béisbol. El fiscal general ha presentado un Aviso de intención de buscar la pena de muerte para Sáenz.
En una acusación de 24 cargos dada a conocer ayer, el Distrito Este de Nueva York, acusó a ocho miembros de MS-13, incluidos los líderes del Programa East Coast Hollywood, con cargos de Organizaciones corruptas e influenciadas por el crimen organizado (RICO) y Crimen violento en ayuda de la extorsión (VICAR) relacionados con seis asesinatos, dos intentos de asesinato, secuestro, narcóticos y ofensas relacionadas con armas de fuego.
En una acusación de 21 cargos hecha pública ayer en el Distrito de Nevada, 13 miembros de MS-13, incluidos los líderes de la clica “Hollywood Locos” y el Programa de Los Ángeles, fueron acusados de varios delitos, incluida la Empresa Criminal Continua (CCE por sus siglas en inglés), distribución de narcóticos y cargos de armas.
En agosto de 2019, el fiscal general Barr creó la Fuerza de Tarea Conjunta Vulcano para implementar las recomendaciones del subcomité MS-13 creado bajo la Fuerza de Tarea de Delincuencia Organizada Transnacional del fiscal general, que fue el resultado de la Orden Ejecutiva de febrero de 2017 del presidente Trump que ordenaba que los Departamentos de Justicia, Estado y de Seguridad Nacional, y la Oficina del Director de Inteligencia Nacional para coordinar un enfoque que incluía a todo el gobierno para desmantelar las organizaciones criminales transnacionales, como la MS-13, y restaurar la seguridad del pueblo estadounidense. El propósito principal de JTFV es coordinar y liderar los esfuerzos del Departamento de Justicia y las agencias de aplicación de la ley de EE. UU. contra la MS-13 para desmantelarla.
La JTFV ha implementado con éxito el enfoque de la participación de todo el gobierno para la aplicación de la ley en relación con la MS-13; mayor coordinación y colaboración con socios extranjeros encargados de la aplicación de la ley, incluyendo los socios en El Salvador, México, Honduras y Guatemala; programas prioritarios designados MS-13, clicas y líderes, que tienen el mayor impacto en los EE. UU., para enjuiciamientos selectivos; y coordinó importantes acusaciones en contra de la MS-13 en las oficinas del Fiscal de los Estados Unidos en todo el país, como el Distrito Este de Nueva York, el Distrito Este de Virginia y el Distrito de Nevada.
Se han asignado fiscales federales del División de Seguridad Nacional del Departamento de Justicia y la División Criminal, también 10 oficinas del fiscal General de los Estados Unidos para prestar servicios a la JTFV a tiempo completo: el Distrito Este de Nueva York; el Distrito Este de Virginia; el Distrito de Nevada; el Distrito Sur de California; el Distrito de Massachusetts; el Distrito Norte de Ohio; el Distrito de Nueva Jersey; el Distrito Este de Texas; el Distrito de Utah; y el Distrito de Columbia. Además, todas las fuerzas del orden público del Departamento de Justicia agencias están involucradas en este esfuerzo: el FBI, la Administración de Control de Drogas; la Agencia de Control de Bebidas Alcohólicas, Tabaco, Armas de Fuego y Explosivos; el Servicio de Alguaciles Federales de EE. UU., y la Oficina de Prisiones Federales. La división de investigaciones del Departamento de Seguridad Nacional también ha tenido un papel importante en la JTFV.
El fiscal general Barr también agradeció al fiscal general Raúl Melara de El Salvador por la asistencia de su oficina, así como de investigadores de la Policía Nacional Civil de El Salvador, y al Centro Antipandillas Transnacional por su apoyo.
Cumberland Man Sentenced for Robbing Two BanksRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Cumberland man who previously admitted to robbing banks in Providence and Pawtucket within a month of one another in mid-summer 2019 was sentenced today to 30 months in federal prison.
Christopher S. Oladapo, 29, admitted to the court that he robbed a Providence branch of Citizens Bank on July 27, 2019, of $3,286, and that he robbed a Citizens Bank branch in Pawtucket on August 31, 2019, of $2,031. In both instances, he handed tellers threating notes demanding cash.
Oladapo admitted that in the first robbery he handed a note to a teller that read “Don’t be a hero there’s two of us in here Give me all the money in your draw Call police 15 mins after I walk out Your being watched keep your hands where I can see.”
In the second robbery he passed a note to a teller that read, “act normal give me all the money you have, you are being watched. Give me the note back and don’t call the police for 20 minutes.”
Oladapo pleaded guilty on February 3, 2020, to two counts of bank robbery. At sentencing today, U.S. District Court Judge William E. Smith sentenced Oladapo to 30 months in federal prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Additionally, Oladapo was ordered by the court to pay restitution to Citizens Bank totaling $5,299.
Oladapo’s sentence is announced by United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman, Providence Police Chief Colonel Hugh T. Clements, Jr., Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, and Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division Joseph R. Bonavolonta.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine D. Lowell and Sandra R. Hebert.
The robberies were investigated by the Providence and Pawtucket Police Departments, with the assistance of the FBI.
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Criminal Investigation and United States Attorney remind taxpayers of the tax filing deadline; urge and to remain vigilant of scamsRead the Press Release
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the
Southern District of Illinois remind taxpayers of the July 15 filing and payment deadline and warn against an increase in tax and COVID-19 scams.Due to COVID-19, the original filing deadline and tax payment due date for 2019 was postponed from
April 15 to July 15. Taxpayers filing Form 1040 series returns must file Form 4868 by July 15 to obtain the automatic extension to Oct. 15.“Although the extension provides additional time to file the tax return – it is not an extension to pay any taxes due”, said Adam Steiner, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal
Investigation division in the St. Louis Field Office. “For people facing hardships who cannot pay in full, including those affected by COVID-19, the IRS has several options available to help. The
IRS encourages taxpayers to visit IRS.gov as soon as possible to explore these options and avoid accruing interest and penalties after the July 15 deadline.”As the filing deadline is today, taxpayers should beware of tax and COVID-19 related scams.
“Criminals use the tax filing deadline as an opportunity to steal personal and financial information”, said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft for the Southern District of Illinois.
“Taxpayers should remain vigilant and know that the IRS will not initiate contact with them via phone, email or social media to request personal or financial information.”In the last few months, the IRS Criminal Investigation division (CI) has continued to see a tremendous increase in a variety of Economic Impact Payment scams and other
financial schemes. CI continues to work with its law enforcement partners to put a stop to these schemes and bring criminals to justice.
Taxpayers can report COVID-19 scams to the National Center for Disaster Fraud. Taxpayers can also report fraud or theft of their Economic Impact Payments to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax
Administration (TIGTA). Unsolicited (phishing) e- mails that appear to be from the IRS should be forwarded to [email protected].For the most up-to-date information bout the tax filing deadline and IRS impersonation scams, taxpayers can visit IRS.gov.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 36 Months in Prison for Possessing a Stolen Firearm on MetrolinkRead the Press Release
St. Louis, Missouri – Lautha Anderson, 26, of St. Louis, Missouri, was sentenced to 36 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He appeared in federal court today before U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey.
According to court documents, on May 1, 2018, Anderson was a passenger on the Metro train heading eastbound from Lambert Airport. St. Louis County Police Department officers conducted a ticket check on the train. Anderson informed officers he did not have a validated ticket. While acting anxious and nervous, Anderson informed officers that he had something in his pocket. Anderson pulled out a loaded 9mm magazine. Officers then conducted a pat down and located a stolen 9mm Glock semiautomatic pistol in Anderson’s waistband.
Prior to May 1, 2018, Anderson was convicted of at least one felony crime in a court of law punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. At the time he knowingly possessed the firearm, Anderson knew he was a convicted felon.
The St. Louis County Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Ocala, FL – Malcolm Straughter (35, Ocala) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
Straughter was indicted on May 20, 2020.
According to court documents, on March 19, 2020, a City of Ocala police officer stopped Straughter in his vehicle for a traffic infraction. After the officer smelled the odor of marijuana coming from within the vehicle, a search revealed six bags of marijuana and a loaded 9mm firearm under Straughter’s seat. The firearm had an obliterated serial number and was later confirmed as stolen.
Straughter has prior state felony convictions for possession of a short-barreled shotgun, possession of cocaine, and robbery with a firearm and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Ocala Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tyrie Boyer.
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 and enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. For more information on Project Guardian visit www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm and Ammunition OffenseRead the Press Release
Ocala, FL – Curtis Duncan (30, Ocala) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
Duncan had been indicted on May 20, 2020.
According to court documents, on March 30, 2020, City of Ocala police officers responded to a disturbance at an apartment complex, where a victim told the officers that Duncan had pointed a gun at her during an argument over a cellphone. The victim described the firearm and the vehicle that Duncan had been driving when he left the scene. A short time later, officers stopped Duncan in the same vehicle and recovered a loaded .380 caliber handgun from a bag that Duncan had strapped around his torso.
Duncan has prior state felony convictions including home invasion robbery, and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Ocala Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tyrie Boyer.
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 and enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. For more information on Project Guardian visit www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
Clinton Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARK FELNER, 31, of Clinton, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to one count of receipt of child pornography stemming from his interactions with an underage victim in 2015 and 2016.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on multiple occasions in 2015, Felner, who was 26 at the time, traveled from Connecticut to North Carolina to engage in illegal sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl. In 2015 and 2016, when Felner and the minor victim were not physically together, the victim, at Felner’s instruction, sent pornographic images of herself through social media messaging services.
Felner was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on October 8, 2019. A memory card seized from Felner at the time of his arrest revealed pornographic images that he had received from the minor victim.
Judge Thompson scheduled sentencing for October 7, 2020, at which time Felner faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Felner will also be required to register as a sex offender as a result of his conviction.
Felner is released on a $50,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New London and East Lyme Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret Donovan and Neeraj Patel.
This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.
Canadian Parent in College Admissions Case SentencedRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Canadian man was sentenced to prison today for paying approximately $200,000 to conspire with others to secure his children’s admission to college by cheating on their college entrance exams.
David Sidoo, 61, of Vancouver, Canada, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to three months in prison, one year of supervised release and ordered to pay a fine of $250,000. In March 2020, Sidoo pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.
In 2011, Sidoo agreed to pay $100,000 to co-conspirator William “Rick” Singer to have another co-conspirator, Mark Riddell, secretly take the SAT in place of his older son. The following year, Sidoo agreed to pay $100,000 to have Riddell take the SAT in place of his younger son.
As part of the scheme, Sidoo engaged in various other types of fraud related to the college admissions and application process. In the summer of 2012, Riddell flew to Vancouver to take a high school exam for Sidoo’s older son. In the fall of 2013, Sidoo and Singer crafted a college application admissions essay for Sidoo’s son that falsely claimed that Sidoo’s son had been held up at gunpoint by members of a Los Angeles street gang and that he had then been rescued by a rival gang member. In 2015 and 2016, Riddell, Singer and Sidoo explored cheating on various graduate school admissions tests, although they ultimately did not pursue this plan.
Singer and Riddell have previously pleaded guilty and are cooperating with the government’s investigation.
Case information, including the status of each defendant, charging documents and plea agreements are available here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/investigations-college-admissions-and-testing-bribery-scheme.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric S. Rosen, Justin D. O’Connell, Leslie A. Wright, Kristen A. Kearney, Karin M. Bell and Stephen E. Frank of Lelling’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.