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2 July 2020
Poplarville Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Mississippi – Brian Travis, 40, of Poplarville, Mississippi was sentenced yesterday by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr., to serve life in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Brad L. Byerley, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Travis was also ordered to pay a fine of $10,000.00.
On July 3, 2019, as part of an ongoing DEA investigation into Travis, law enforcement officials executed federal search warrants on two properties in Poplarville, Mississippi. During the execution of the warrants, law enforcement officials located approximately 19 pounds of methamphetamine. Subsequent testing indicated the methamphetamine had a purity of approximately 99%. Additional investigation revealed that Travis was involved with the distribution of kilogram quantities of methamphetamine and led to the seizure of over $40,000.00 and a car.
On August 6, 2019, Travis was charged in a federal criminal indictment. He pled guilty before Judge Guirola on November 26, 2019, to one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the DEA. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shundral Cole.
Payne County Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years for Possession of Multiple Firearms and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – BRANDON TODD HATCHETT, 46, of Ripley, Oklahoma, has been sentenced to 130 months in prison for possessing seven firearms and ammunition after having been previously convicted of a felony, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.
On June 19, 2019, Hatchett was charged by superseding indictment with one count of being a felon in possession of firearms and one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition. The superseding indictment set forth seven firearms that Hatchett possessed, including two AR-15 style rifles.
On October 13, 2019, Hatchett pled guilty to both counts of the superseding indictment.
On July 1, 2020, U.S. District Judge Timothy D. DeGiusti sentenced Hatchett to 120 months in prison on the firearms count, to be followed by 10 months of imprisonment on the ammunition count. Judge DeGiusti also imposed three years of supervised release.
According to evidence at sentencing, on April 5, 2019, Hatchett pulled up to a residence in Ripley, Oklahoma, armed with an arsenal of weapons and ammunition sitting beside him in the cab of his truck. Hatchett engaged in a confrontation with an individual at the residence, which led to a car chase through Main Street in Ripley. During the chase, Hatchett pulled his truck alongside the passenger side of the other vehicle where he fired multiple rounds from his AR-style rifle into the other vehicle. Shrapnel from one of the rounds struck the driver in the leg. Following the shooting, the Payne County Sheriff’s Department organized a manhunt for Hatchett. He was later arrested by the Logan County Sheriff’s Department. At the time of his arrest, Hatchett had all seven firearms in his possession.
On April 20, 2019, the Payne County Sheriff’s Department learned that Hatchett had purchased additional rounds of ammunition from a Walmart store. Hatchett was again arrested and held pending sentencing on both offenses.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Payne County Sheriff’s Department, and the Logan County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wilson D. McGarry and Lori Hines prosecuted the case.
Parkersburg Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Drug OffenseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Parkersburg man was sentenced to federal prison for a drug crime, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Keith Saunders, 33, was sentenced to seven years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for distribution of a quantity of methamphetamine.
“Great work by the Parkersburg Police Department and the ATF. Our communities are safer with one less drug dealer on the streets,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
Saunders admitted that on two separate occasions in 2017, he met with confidential informants working with the Parkersburg Police Department and sold the informants methamphetamine. Saunders also had attempted to sell a firearm to the confidential informant, but was unable to complete the transaction. On October 29, 2019, Saunders admitted that he sold heroin to a confidential informant again working with the Parkersburg Police Department. On October 30, 2019, a state search warrant was executed at Saunders’ home where ammunition in addition to several digital scales were located. Saunders admitted to being addicted to methamphetamine for several years and told investigators that he sold approximately half a pound of methamphetamine a week in order to support his drug addiction.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Parkersburg Police Department conducted the investigation. Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney L. Alexander Hamner handled the prosecution.
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Owner of Fraudulent Telemarketing Company Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Samuel Friedman (47, Pasco County) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, Friedman owned and operated a telemarketing operation known as SKF Enterprises, LLC. SKF targeted the Medicare-aged population to generate orders for durable medical equipment (“DME”) and cancer genetic (“CGx”) testing. SKF’s call center employees were trained to follow a script of triage questions designed to upsell DME and CGx testing to Medicare beneficiaries. SKF then packaged this information into the format of a prescription for doctors’ approval under the guise of “telemedicine,” but no proper telemedicine occurred. Rather, doctors’ signatures were secured in exchange for bribes and kickbacks. During the scheme, Friedman bribed numerous doctors, through fraudulent “telemedicine” companies, to sign and to approve thousands of DME and CGx-testing orders, regardless of medical necessity.
Once signed by doctors, Friedman sold the prescriptions to client-conspirators for submission to Medicare and the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs. The conspirators attempted to conceal their illegal kickback relationships using sham boilerplate marketing agreements. For these illegal sales, conspirators paid SKF more than $3.4 million.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristen A. Fiore.
Northridge Man Sentenced to More Than 21 Years in Federal Prison for Running $3.3 Million Scheme that Used Stolen Identities of ChildrenRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A San Fernando Valley man was sentenced today to 259 months in federal prison for overseeing a long-running $3.3 million credit card, loan and real estate fraud scheme using stolen identities, primarily that of children.
Turhan Lemont Armstrong, 50, of Northridge, was sentenced by United States District Judge R. Gary Klausner, who also ordered him to pay $3,305,609 in restitution. Judge Klausner also has ordered the forfeiture of two homes – one in Northridge, the other in Perris – purchased with illicit funds obtained from the scheme.
At the conclusion of a two-week trial that ended in May 2019, a jury found Armstrong guilty of all 51 counts in a federal grand jury indictment. The indictment included charges of conspiracy to commit financial institution fraud, financial institution fraud, making false statements to financial institutions, conspiracy to commit money laundering, money laundering, conspiracy to commit access device (credit card) fraud, access device fraud, interstate transportation of stolen vehicles, and aggravated identity theft.
Armstrong used stolen identities and Social Security numbers to obtain credit cards, open bank accounts, set up shell companies, apply for loans, and purchase homes and cars. Armstrong and his co-defendants favored using the Social Security numbers of children and people who had left the United States because they would be less likely to monitor their credit.
In addition to using fraudulently obtained credit cards to purchase goods, members of the scheme were able to use point-of-sale terminals maintained by “collusive merchants,” which allowed them to make what were essentially cash withdrawals.
Armstrong and his co-conspirators also used the fraudulent information to apply for loans from financial institutions across the country. In some instances, Armstrong obtained loans for cars that had already been exported out of the United States.
Armstrong did not report any income to the IRS for the years 2009 through 2017 – yet he maintained residences in Georgia, Florida and the Sherwood Forest neighborhood of Northridge. When authorities went to Armstrong’s apartment in Atlanta in late 2017 to arrest him pursuant to the indictment, he evaded law enforcement, only to be arrested three days later leaving his house in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Investigators executed search warrants at all three of Armstrong’s homes, as well as two storage units in the Los Angeles area, where they discovered false identity documents, hundreds of credit cards in various names, and lists of Social Security numbers belonging to other people.
“[Armstrong’s] criminal conduct was more than a series of bad decisions – it was a way of life,” prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memorandum. “The victims of [Armstrong’s] crimes run the gamut: banks, credit card issuers, car dealerships, utility companies, and the people all over the country whose identities [he] stole.”
The total loss to the victims in this case is $3,305,609, according to court documents.
Co-defendants Mounir Deiri, 59, of Van Nuys, and Andres Velarde, 57, of Culver City, each pleaded guilty in 2018 to charges in this case and are serving federal prison sentences of 51 months and 60 months, respectively.
The investigation of Armstrong was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations. Substantial assistance was provided by the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General, the Miami-Dade Police Department, and the North Miami Beach Police Department.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander B. Schwab of the Major Frauds Section, Allison L. Westfahl Kong, Chief of the General Crimes Section, and Michael Sew Hoy of the Asset Forfeiture Section.
Northeast Ohio priest indicted on charges of child pornography, child exploitation and juvenile sex traffickingRead the Press Release
Justin Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland, Ohio has returned an eight-count indictment against Robert D. McWilliams, age 40, of Strongsville. The defendant is charged with two counts of Sex Trafficking of a Minor, three counts of Sexual Exploitation of Children, one count of Transportation of Child Pornography, one count of Receipt and Distribution of Visual Depictions of Real Minors Engaged In Sexually Explicit Conduct and one count of Possession of Child Pornography.
“Today’s indictment reflect the serious and elaborate nature of the acts allegedly taken by the defendant to traffic and exploit local area children,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “The alleged acts committed in this case are a disturbing and strong reminder for parents to be vigilant about who their children talk to and what they do online.”
“Allegations of child exploitation against a trusted member of the religious community has long-term reverberations beyond just the criminal acts of the accused," said Vance Callender, special agent in charge of HSI Detroit. "Identifying people who violate their positions of public trust will always be a priority for those in HSI that investigate child exploitation."
According to court documents, from 2017-2019, McWilliams engaged in sexually explicit conduct and behavior involving minors. McWilliams pretended to be a female on social media applications, which he used to make contact with minor male victims. Allegedly, certain of McWilliams’s victims were young boys McWilliams knew because he served as a priest in parishes with which these children and their families were affiliated.
Posing as a female, McWilliams allegedly enticed the minor male victims to send sexually explicit photographs and videos, sometimes threatening to expose embarrassing information McWilliams already knew about the victims if they did not send such images. At times, McWilliams is alleged to have threatened to send those photographs to family and friends if the minor male victims did not send additional photographs and videos. McWilliams is also alleged to have followed through on this threat by sending the mothers sexually explicit photographs he received from minor male victims.
The affidavit also alleges that McWilliams was in possession of, received or distributed approximately 1,700 images and videos of child pornography and approximately 150 files of child pornography in a Dropbox cloud storage account.
Additionally, McWilliams is alleged to have used the social networking website Grindr.com to make contact with a minor male victim for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex. McWilliams allegedly met the victim on multiple occasions and, in exchange for sex, paid the victim for each act.
Anyone with knowledge of McWilliams’s contact with children should contact Homeland Security Investigations at (216) 749-9602.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Each defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after a review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This investigation is being conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Geauga County Prosecutor’s Office and Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children (“ICAC”) Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carol M. Skutnik and Bridget M. Brennan.
Nine Michigan Residents Facing Federal Charges for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge announced today that an indictment was returned charging nine Michigan residents with trafficking methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and suboxone between November 2018 and June 2020. The alleged conspiracy involved current and former inmates of the Michigan Department of Corrections procuring controlled substances from Mexico and distributing them in Alger, Luce, Allegan, Berrien, Branch, Grand Traverse, Ingham, Kent, Muskegon, Ottawa, and Van Buren Counties. The charges carry varying maximum penalties, including up to life in prison for some of the defendants.
The following individuals were charged:
Name
Age
Residence
Luis Alberto Cruz
30
Detroit, Michigan
Carlos Martinez a/k/a "Los"
41
Norton Shores, Michigan
Umberto Gavier Cruz a/k/a "Diablo"
66
Covert, Michigan
Emmanuel Alfonso Ventura a/k/a "E"
28
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Rocky Joseph Krupa a/k/a "Rock"
46
Traverse City, Michigan
Jesus Cortez
40
Lansing, Michigan
Sarah Joy McBride
32
Allegan, Michigan
Cecil William Wallis
33
Twin Lake, Michigan
Arnulfo Trevino a/k/a "Nulfo"
63
Muskegon, Michigan
Further details of the investigation are available in the criminal complaints filed in United States v. Luis Alberto Cruz, No. 1:20-mj-00145 and United States v. Carlos Martinez, No. 1:20-mj-179.
The charges are the result of a combined federal, state, and local investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Michigan Department of Corrections, the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, and the Michigan State Police and its sponsored drug trafficking task forces: the West Michigan Enforcement Team, the Southwest Enforcement Team, and the Traverse Narcotics Team.
The charges in the superseding indictment are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. The government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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New Kensington Woman Pleads to Copyright Infringement ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of copyright, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Sherry Collingwood, age 60, of New Kensington, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from January 2014, and continuing until March 2017, Collingwood willfully infringed the copyright of one or more copyrighted works, to include "Blue Bloods," "Vikings," "Dexter," "True Blood," "Breaking Bad," and "Californication," and other television shows and motion pictures that have been released for sale to the public. She did this by reproducing and distributing for private financial gain, ten or more copies of one or more copyrighted works during a 180-day period. The copies have a total retail value of more than $2,500. .
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for October 29, 2020 at 11:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Collingwood.
Morris County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking ViolationsRead the Press Release
MARSHALL, Texas – A 36-year-old Daingerfield, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking crimes in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Cox today.
Michael Leon Wood pleaded guilty on May 5, 2020, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Rodney Gilstrap. Wood also agreed to forfeiture of $3,625, which he received from selling methamphetamine.
According to information presented in court, on March 1, 2018, Wood delivered an ounce of methamphetamine to another person in exchange for $600. On Jan. 15, 2019, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Wood’s residence in Morris County and recovered approximately 50 grams of methamphetamine, $1,150 in cash, a rifle, a pistol, and a shotgun. Wood admitted to being responsible for distributing approximately 96 grams of methamphetamine.
Wood was indicted by a federal grand jury on Oct. 16, 2019 and charged with drug trafficking violations.
This case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
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Monroe County Man Sentenced to 300 Months’ Imprisonment for Fentanyl Laced Heroin Distributions Resulting in DeathsRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Vincent Ingino, age 28, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania was sentenced on July 1, 2020, to 300 months’ imprisonment followed by three-years supervised release by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for distributions of controlled substances resulting in two deaths.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Ingino was convicted by a jury in February 2020 on two counts of knowingly and intentionally distributing controlled substances that included a mixture of fentanyl and heroin, causing the deaths of two individuals. In August 2018, Ingino drove to Patterson, New Jersey to obtain bundles of heroin for resale in the Stroudsburg area. Ingino first sold fentanyl laced heroin to a 24-year-old male on August 10, 2018; he made another sale of fentanyl laced heroin to a 28-year-old male on August 11, 2018. Both men were found dead by friends and family the day after Ingino’s sales of drugs to them.
At sentencing, members of both families made moving statements to the Court, which Judge Mannion acknowledged.
The charges stem from a joint investigation involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Scranton, the Pennsylvania State Police, and detectives from the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Olshefski and Jenny Roberts.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Mission Man Indicted for Second Degree Murder and Assault with a Dangerous WeaponRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder and Assault With a Dangerous Weapon.
Nathan Blue Bird, Sr., age 37, was indicted on June 11, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 30, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is any term of years up to life in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on May 30, 2020, Blue Bird killed a man by striking him repeatedly with a metal bat.
The charges are merely accusations and Blue Bird is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Blue Bird was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Minneapolis Man Charged with Illegal Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a criminal complaint charging TROY TEASLEY, 27, with one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. TEASLEY is in custody and will make his initial appearance in U.S. District Court at a later date.
According to the allegations in the criminal complaint and law enforcement affidavit, Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) received a tip from a confidential source that TEASLEY, who was the subject of a fugitive investigation for a supervised release violation, was in Minneapolis and possessed a firearm. On June 30, 2020, law enforcement located TEASLEY in the Seven Corners neighborhood in Minneapolis in the driver’s seat of a Chevrolet Tahoe and arrested him on the felony warrant. During a search of the Tahoe, law enforcement located a loaded Glock, model 30S, .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun. TEASLEY has a previous felony conviction of aggravated robbery in Hennepin County, therefore is prohibited under federal law from possessing a firearm.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minneapolis Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was brought as part of the Twin Cities Violent Crime Task Force, a multi-agency effort that brings together additional federal and state resources to assist local law enforcement to investigate, arrest, and prosecute individuals responsible for gun violence in the Twin Cities. For more information about the Twin Cities Violent Crime Task Force, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/united-states-attorney-announces-new-twin-cities-violent-crime-task-force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Steinkamp is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
TROY TEASLEY, 27
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Charges:
- Felon in possession of a firearm, 1 count
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The charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Member of Syndicato de Nuevo Mexico prison gang charged with racketeering conspiracy, robbery, and firearms offensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Tony Gauna, 37, of Vaughn, New Mexico appeared in federal court in Albuquerque today for an initial appearance on a criminal complaint charging him with participation in a Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (“RICO”) conspiracy and other offenses related to the Syndicato de Nuevo Mexico (“SNM”) prison gang.
The complaint specifically charges Gauna with one count of RICO conspiracy, two counts of interference with commerce by threats or violence, one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to the criminal complaint, Gauna has been a member of the SNM prison gang since 2001. He allegedly committed numerous violent crimes on behalf of SNM since joining the gang. These crimes included allegedly brandishing a pistol while robbing a discount store in Albuquerque on April 15 and allegedly discharging a pistol during a restaurant robbery in Albuquerque on April 30. Gauna could not lawfully possess firearms at the time of these alleged offenses based on previous felony convictions for shooting at or from a motor vehicle, battery on a police officer, auto burglary and other crimes.
Gauna also allegedly committed other acts of violence on behalf of SNM, including a stabbing to enforce a drug debt in 2003 and a beating at a park in Roswell, New Mexico in 2009. The complaint further accuses Gauna of stealing firearms from a home in Roswell in 2009 and selling the firearms to SNM members. The criminal complaint also accuses Gauna of committing several drug trafficking offenses on behalf of SNM, including smuggling heroin into detention and correctional facilities in New Mexico.
Gauna is currently in custody pending a detention hearing on July 6. He faces up to 20 years in prison for RICO conspiracy and interference with commerce by threats or violence. Gauna faces from ten years to life in prison for discharging and from seven years to life in prison for brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. He faces up to ten years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. A criminal complaint is only an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The FBI investigated this case with assistance from the New Mexico Corrections Department, New Mexico State Police, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, Metropolitan Correctional Center, Albuquerque Police Department, and U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Las Cruces Branch Office are prosecuting the case as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force program, a nationwide Department of Justice program that combines the resources and unique expertise of federal agencies, along with their local counterparts, in a coordinated effort to disrupt and dismantle major drug trafficking organizations.
Member of Latin Kings New Bedford Chapter Charged with Unlawful Possession of Firearm Following Robbery and Shooting InvestigationsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A member of the New Bedford Chapter of the Almighty Latin King and Queen Nation (“Latin Kings”) was charged today will illegal firearm possession following an investigation into an armed robbery in New Bedford and a shooting in Boston.
Ramon Martinez, a/k/a “King Razor,” 26, was charged in a criminal complaint with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Martinez, who is currently in custody in Bristol County, will make his initial appearance in federal court at a later date.
According to charging documents, on April 30, 2020, a victim reported to police that he had been robbed and punched in New Bedford by two men who were in a black Ford Fusion. The men put a knife to the victim’s back and stole his wallet and motorized scooter. The victim was allegedly targeted because he beeped his horn at a friend and the men in the Ford Fusion believed that the victim was honking at them. During the investigation, Martinez, a known member of the Latin Kings, was identified as one of the robbers and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
According to court documents, also on April 30, 2020, police responded to a report of shots-fired in the area of Callender Street in Boston where three .45 caliber casings were recovered. Investigators viewed Martinez’s SnapChat account and observed postings related to this shooting incident.
It is further alleged that, on May 7, 2020, police observed Martinez exit a residence on Crapo Street in New Bedford and walk to the rear of a black Ford Fusion. They observed Martinez open the trunk and quickly close it, and then get into a nearby vehicle. Officers stopped the vehicle, placed Martinez under arrest for the April 30th armed robbery and located a set of keys for the Ford Fusion. In the trunk of the Fusion, officers located a Glock Model 30S .45 caliber firearm with four rounds of ammunition. Preliminary testing linked the Glock Model 30S to the casings recovered on Callender Street in Boston.
Due to multiple prior convictions, Martinez is prohibited from possessing firearms. Martinez was also known to investigators to be a member of the New Bedford Chapter of the Latin Kings.
The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New England Field Division; New Bedford Police Chief Joseph C. Cordeiro; and Boston Police Commissioner William Gross made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was also provided by the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of Lelling’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Medical Equipment Company Owner Pleads Guilty to $20 Million Health Care Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Jonathan Michael Rouffe (47, Boca Raton) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, in 2018, Rouffe and his conspirators established a conglomerate of durable medical equipment (“DME”) supply companies. During the creation of the companies, they lied to Medicare to secure billing privileges. The scheme involved placing the companies in the names of straw owners. By concealing their true ownership, the conspirators secretly gained control of multiple companies, which Medicare prohibits. This enabled the conspirators to submit high volumes of illegal DME claims while attempting to evade law enforcement scrutiny. In one year, through the conglomerate, Rouffe and his conspirators submitted more than $20 million in illegal DME claims, resulting in over $10 million in payments from Medicare and the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (“CHAMPVA”).
To attain such high volumes of claims, the conspirators used bribes and kickbacks. Specifically, Rouffe and his conspirators illegally purchased thousands of DME claims from so-called “marketers.” The marketers, for their part, had generated the claims under the guise of “telemedicine,” but no telemedicine had actually occurred. Instead, the “marketers” had bribed doctors to sign the DME brace orders that supported the claims. Rouffe and his conspirators paid millions to secure the illegal DME claims for submission to Medicare and CHAMPVA.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristen A. Fiore.
McKees Rocks Man Sentenced to Prison for Assaulting a Postal CarrierRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of McKees Rocks, PA, pleaded guilty today and was sentenced in federal court to 46 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release on conviction of assaulting a federal employee, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Raheem Jackson, 28.
According to the information presented to the court, on December 31, 2018, Jackson struck the victim, R.F., in the head with a hand railing as R.F delivered mail for the United States Postal Service. R.F. lost consciousness and suffered bleeding to the brain. Prior to imposing the sentence, Judge Ambrose emphasized the severity of the offense.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo are prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Postal Service conducted the investigation of Jackson.
Matteson, Illinois, Man Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Lavell Gordon, 30, of Matteson, Illinois, was sentenced by Judge Simon to 120 months in prison following his guilty plea to one count of distribution of crack cocaine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to documents in the case, in the spring of 2019, Gordon sold an undercover confidential informant crack cocaine on five separate occasions. On May 29, 2019, in Hammond, Indiana, during the last of these five crack cocaine sales, Gordon received two firearms in exchange for the crack cocaine, after which he was immediately arrested. He has five prior felony convictions, including convictions for armed robbery, aggravated robbery, burglary, larceny of a firearm, and resisting a peace officer.
This case is the result of the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives HIDTA Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Padilla.
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Maple Heights man indicted on arson charge from May 30 demonstrations in Downtown ClevelandRead the Press Release
Justin Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in Cleveland, Ohio has returned a one count indictment charging Timothy James Goodner, age 19, of Maple Heights with arson. According to court documents, Goodner was involved in an act of arson concerning the Shaia’s Parking Lot attendant booth on 1242 West 3rd Street on Saturday, May 30th, 2020.
“Today’s indictment reflects the continued resolve of federal law enforcement to identify, arrest, and prosecute those individuals responsible for the widespread damage in our downtown on May 30,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This defendant is alleged to have committed arson during the riot that followed an otherwise peaceful, Constitutionally-protected assembly. We will continue to seek out and prosecute those who were engaged in similar acts on that day.”
According to the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint, Goodner and other persons gathered around an attendant booth in the West 3rd Street parking lot during the demonstrations on May 30th. Images and videos released from that day show a suspect setting fire to cardboard boxes and paper towels and then placing them inside the attendant booth. Goodner is then allegedly observed contributing to the fire by placing boxes and other combustible products inside the both to help accelerate the burning.
Afterwards, the Cleveland Division of Police released images and video of suspects committing various criminal acts from the demonstrations to the media. Goodner was identified via these images from numerous anonymous tips by his clothing and a visible tattoo.
Goodner was arrested and booked into the Cuyahoga County Jail on June 22, 2020, by the Ohio State Highway Patrol on an active warrant obtained by the Cleveland Police Department for aggravated arson.
A charge 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.
This case is being investigated by the Cleveland Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Cleveland Division of Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Hanley. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio would like to acknowledge and thank the Cleveland FBI, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their assistance with this matter.
Man Charged in Federal Court for Attempting to Tear Down Statue of Andrew Jackson in Lafayette Square Amid ProtestsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Jason Charter, 25, of Washington, D.C., was arrested and charged by Criminal Complaint today with destruction of federal property, announced Michael R. Sherwin, Acting U.S. Attorney; James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge of the Criminal Division of the Washington Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and Gregory T. Monahan, Acting Chief of the United States Park Police (USPP).
The complaint alleges that on June 20, 2020, Charter, together with other individuals, destroyed the Albert Pike statue in Northwest, Washington, D.C., by pulling it from its base and setting it on fire. The complaint alleges that Charter was captured on video dousing the statue with a flammable liquid and then igniting it as it lay on the ground. Charter is depicted on video using the fire to light a cigarette.
The complaint further alleges that on June 22, 2020, Charter, together with other individuals, damaged and attempted to tear down the statue depicting Andrew Jackson at the Battle of New Orleans, located in Lafayette Square. The complaint further alleges that Charter was captured on video climbing up onto the statue and affixing a rope to the statue that was then used to try to pull the statue down. Three other men were previously charged with also destroying the Jackson statue.
The defendant appeared today before United States Magistrate Judge Deborah A. Robinson of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, where he was released pending further court proceedings. A Criminal Complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
“While the United States Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia is committed to protecting the First Amendment right of individuals to protest peacefully, today’s additional arrest in connection with the violent destruction of federal property is a testament to our further commitment to prosecuting those criminal offenders who threaten not only property, but ultimately the safety of all through their violent acts,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael R. Sherwin.
“These individuals chose to engage in unlawful activity while among fellow citizens who were conducting lawful and Constitutionally protected protest activities,” said James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Field Office’s Criminal Division. “The FBI is dedicated to protecting peaceful protesters from those threatening their safety with violence and destruction of property, and where there is a federal nexus, we will investigate and hold the wrongdoers accountable.”
“This arrest is an example of excellent investigative work by the United States Park Police Criminal Investigations and the continued partnership with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The U.S. Park Police remains committed to protecting our icons, memorials, and park resources” said United States Park Police Acting Chief Gregory T. Monahan.
In announcing the charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Sherwin, Special Agent in Charge Dawson, and Acting Chief Monahan commended the work of the FBI agents and USPP officers who apprehended the four men and are investigating the incident. This joint investigation was conducted by the United States Park Police and the FBI Washington Field Office’s Violent Crime Task Force. Significant assistance was also provided by the Washington Metropolitan Police Department. The Violent Crime Task Force is charged with investigating acts of violence impacting the District of Columbia. Tips associated with this matter or other acts of violence can be reported to the FBI at 202-278-2000 or tips.fbi.gov.
Madera County Man Charged with Marijuana Cultivation Operation in the Sierra National ForestRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned an indictment today against a Madera County man for a marijuana cultivation operation that consisted of over 1,000 marijuana plants grown in the Carter Creek watershed drainage network in the Sierra National Forest in Madera County, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
The five-count indictment charged Carson Shane Wilhite, 41, of Ahwahnee, with conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, manufacturing marijuana, damaging public lands and natural resources, possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and being a methamphetamine user in possession of firearms. According to the indictment, Wilhite was involved in the marijuana cultivation operation and, in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities, he possessed 12 firearms while using methamphetamine. The cultivation operation is alleged to have caused significant damage to the environment.
This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Forest Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Madera County Sheriff’s Office. Integral Ecology Research Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the research and conservation of wildlife and their ecosystems, analyzed and documented the environmental damage. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen A. Escobar is prosecuting the case.
If convicted of the drug conspiracy and manufacturing offense, Wilhite faces a mandatory minimum statutory penalty of 10 years and a maximum penalty of life in prison, as well as a $10 million fine. The environmental charge and the charge of being a drug user in possession of firearms carry a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possessing a firearm in connection with drug trafficking carries a mandatory minimum prison term of five years and a maximum term of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. The defendant faces a mandatory consecutive prison term of five years. In addition, he may be liable for restitution to the U.S. Forest Service for damage sustained to the land and natural resources as a result of the cultivation activities. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Louisiana Company Charged with Conspiracy to Defraud Government and Violate the Procurement Integrity ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser and Makan Delrahim, Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice, announced that CAJAN WELDING & RENTALS, LTD., a company located in Opelousas, Louisiana, was charged on July 2, 2020 in a one-count bill of information with conspiracy to defraud the United States and to violate the Procurement Integrity Act, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371.
According to the bill of information, CAJAN WELDING & RENTALS, LTD. conspired with unnamed co-conspirators to defraud the United States by corrupting and impairing the government procurement process, and by obtaining non-public pricing and cost information in order to obtain subcontract awards and payments from the U.S. Department of Energy in connection with its operation of the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
If convicted, CAJAN WELDING & RENTALS, LTD. faces a maximum fine of $500,000.00, a term of probation of up to five years, and a special assessment of $400.00.
An information is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being investigated by the United States Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Louisiana, the Department of Justice Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal II Section, and the Department of Energy’s Office of the Inspector General.
Louisiana Company Charged with Conspiracy to Defraud the Government and Violate the Procurement Integrity ActRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser and Makan Delrahim, Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice, announced that CAJAN WELDING & RENTALS, LTD., a company located in Opelousas, Louisiana, was charged on July 2, 2020 in a one-count bill of information with conspiracy to defraud the United States and to violate the Procurement Integrity Act, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371.
According to the bill of information, CAJAN WELDING & RENTALS, LTD. conspired with unnamed co-conspirators to defraud the United States by corrupting and impairing the government procurement process, and by obtaining non-public pricing and cost information in order to obtain subcontract awards and payments from the U.S. Department of Energy in connection with its operation of the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
If convicted, CAJAN WELDING & RENTALS, LTD. faces a maximum fine of $500,000.00, a term of probation of up to five years, and a special assessment of $400.00.
An information is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being investigated by the United States Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Louisiana, the Department of Justice Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal II Section, and the Department of Energy’s Office of the Inspector General.
Loris Armed Robber Sentenced to Five Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Florence, South Carolina --- United States Attorney Peter M. McCoy, Jr., announced today that Fuquan Thompson, 52, of Loris, was sentenced to five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to a conspiracy to commit armed robbery.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on March 5, 2018, Thompson entered a store in Loris wearing a black mask, brandished a firearm, and demanded money and car keys. The store clerk gave Thompson some money and the keys to the clerk’s car, and Thompson left the store. Officers, who responded and viewed Thompson on the store’s surveillance video, found Thompson a short distance from the store. In his possession, Thompson had a firearm, as well as the car keys and money he had taken from the store. Thompson ultimately pleaded guilty.
Chief United States District Judge R. Bryan Harwell sentenced Thompson to 60 months in federal prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Horry County Police Department.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Hummel of the Florence office prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Long Beach Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Mississippi – David Gray, 39, of Long Beach, Mississippi, pled guilty today before Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Brad L. Byerley, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
On May 14, 2019, Gray sold over 19 grams of methamphetamine, with a purity of approximately 96%, to an individual. On June 18, 2019, Gray sold over 54 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine to an individual.
On January 15, 2020, Gray was charged in a federal criminal indictment with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Gray will be sentenced on September 30, 2020, by Judge Guirola, and faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment and a $10,000,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shundral Cole.
Local man who attempted to entice 50 boys gets significant prison sentenceRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 31-year-old Corpus Christi man has been ordered to federal prison for producing child pornography via social media, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Lucas Antonio Nord pleaded guilty Nov. 5, 2019.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos ordered Nord to serve a 200-month sentence. At the hearing, the court heard how Nord used social media to contact minor children for the purposes of having sexual encounters and for requesting nude images of them. Before handing down the sentence, the court heard about two additional victims in other States.
Nord was further ordered to pay $3000 in restitution to a known victim and will serve the rest of his life on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
In April 2019, law enforcement learned Nord had contact with a 14-year-old minor living in Florida. He had asked the child to send him photographs of his genitalia via social media messaging.
Nord told authorities he also had actual physical sexual contact with at least two children and has attempted to solicit more than 50 boys on various social media platforms.
Nord sent the children photographs and videos of his own genitalia and sexual acts as well as videos containing commercially-produced pornography.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Corpus Christi Police Department – Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany L. Jensen prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Levy County Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Prison for "Sextortion" of Washington Teen and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA - Dustin Lee Norman, 23, of Trenton, Florida, was sentenced to 18 years in federal prison after pleading guilty on March 3, 2020, to Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Possessing Child Pornography, and Sending Interstate Transmissions of Extortionate Communications. The Court also ordered lifetime-supervised release following Norman’s prison term and that he register as a sex offender upon his release. United States Attorney Lawrence Keefe for the Northern District of Florida announced the sentence.
“The Justice Department is committed to combating the sexual exploitation of children,” said U.S. Attorney Keefe. “The community plays a critical role in protecting our loved ones as well. We ask that you vigilantly monitor your children’s cell phones and computer activity as well as their social media accounts, and report any suspected offenses to law enforcement. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to do everything within the scope its authority to support our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners as we investigate and prosecute these offenders.”
Beginning in September 2018 through October 2018, Norman persuaded, induced, enticed and coerced a female minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of that conduct. Norman contacted the minor female, who resided in the state of Washington, through a social media site and engaged her in conversations of a sexual nature, during which sexually explicit photographs were sent to him. During the same time, Norman knowingly used his cell phone and the internet to extort the minor female by threatening to post the photographs she had already provided, along with information which would identify her, on Facebook unless she sent him additional, and even more explicit, photographs and videos of herself.
“The heinous acts of this defendant will have an impact on his victim for the rest of her life,” said Rachel L. Rojas, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jacksonville Division. “He not only abused and exploited a vulnerable child, but he re-victimized her over and over again through the online circulation of her image. The FBI will continue to do everything in its power to find justice for innocent victims like her, but we must also work to stop child exploitation. I encourage parents and guardians to set aside time to teach their kids how to identify potential online predators and report them to law enforcement. Together, we can prevent other innocent children from being victimized.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Levy County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.
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 U.S. v. Dustin Lee NormanKilleen Woman Faces Federal Charge in Connection with the Disappearance of U.S. Army Specialist Vanessa GuillenRead the Press Release
Today, federal authorities filed a criminal complaint against 22-year-old Cecily Aguilar in connection with the disappearance of U.S. Army Specialist Vanessa Guillen, announced U.S. Attorney John F. Bash, U.S. Army Criminal Investigative Command (USACID) Special Agent in Charge Vanessa Neff at Fort Hood, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, San Antonio Division.
The criminal complaint charges Aguilar with one count of conspiracy to tamper with evidence. According to the complaint, 20-year-old U.S. Army Specialist Aaron Robinson told Aguilar that he killed a female soldier by striking her in the head with a hammer while on Ft. Hood on April 22, 2020. Robinson further admitted to Aguilar that he transferred the woman’s body off of Ft. Hood to a remote site in Bell County. Subsequently, Robinson enlisted the help of Aguilar in disposing of the dead female’s body. The complaint further alleges that at a later time Aguilar recognized the deceased, whom she helped Robinson mutilate and dispose of, as Vanessa Guillen. The remains found in Bell County have yet to be formally identified by authorities.
The complaint further states that earlier this week, Robinson shot and killed himself when confronted by police.
Upon conviction, Aguilar faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a maximum $250,000 fine. She remains in custody at this time awaiting her Initial Appearance in federal court in Waco. The hearing is expected to take place early next week.
Agents and investigators from USACID, FBI, Texas Rangers, Bell County Sheriff’s Office, Killeen Police Department, Belton Police Department, Texas Parks and Wildlife and the U.S. Marshals Service are continuing to investigate this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Frazier and Greg Gloff are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A criminal complaint is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
KC Man Pleads Guilty to Meth Trafficking, Illegal FirearmsRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Missouri, man pleaded guilty in federal court today to receiving a large quantity of methamphetamine shipped to his residence and to illegally possessing firearms.
Danny Sanchez, 38, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and one count of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.
Federal investigators intercepted a 23-pound package shipped from San Diego, California, on Aug. 10, 2018, that was addressed to Sanchez’s residence. Officers conducted a controlled delivery of the package, which contained more than 5.4 kilograms of methamphetamine. After removing a portion of the methamphetamine, an officer posing as a delivery driver left the package on Sanchez’s front porch. When Sanchez carried the package inside, officers executed a search warrant and entered his residence.
Inside the residence, officers found the partially opened box next to an I.O. Inc. 7.62 x 39 caliber semi-automatic rifle. Officers also found a Glock 9mm semi-automatic handgun in Sanchez’s vehicle.
Sanchez told officers that he received other packages containing methamphetamine, which he delivered for $2,000 per package.
Under federal statutes, Sanchez is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney D. Michael Green. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Missouri Western Interdiction and Narcotics Task Force (MoWIN).
Justice Department Settles Lending Discrimination Lawsuit with Maryland Used Car DealershipRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced a settlement of its race discrimination lawsuit against Guaranteed Auto Sales, a used car dealership in Glen Burnie, Maryland. The agreement also settles the United States’ claims against the dealership’s owner and manager, Kelly Ann West and Robert Chesgreen.
The settlement resolves claims that Guaranteed Auto Sales discriminated against African Americans in violation of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act by offering different terms of credit based on race to those seeking to purchase and finance used cars. The agreement, which is subject to court approval, was filed today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.
The settlement requires the dealership to implement a number of specific practices to ensure that loan terms are offered to customers on a nondiscriminatory basis. Specifically, defendants will develop written policies to govern financing decisions, including how down payment amounts are calculated and whether the down payments may be made in more than one installment; post and distribute nondiscrimination notices to potential purchasers; attend training on the requirements of the Equal Opportunity Act; and engage in ongoing record keeping and reporting to the United States.
“When people borrow money to buy a car, a house, or anything else, they have a right to be treated fairly and without regard to their race,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “The U.S. Department of Justice will not tolerate anyone who discriminates against people because of their race in deciding whether, and under what conditions, to lend them money. Our common humanity, our nation’s sense of decency, and federal law make this kind of race discrimination both un-American and illegal. Today’s settlement should send a clear message that car dealerships and other lenders must never make credit decisions based on a customer’s race. By entering into this agreement, the defendants have committed to take the steps necessary to ensure that they will provide equal treatment for borrowers of all races.”
This lawsuit, filed in September 2019, was based on the results of testing conducted by the department’s Fair Housing Testing Program, in which individuals pose as prospective car buyers to gather information about possible discriminatory practices. The complaint alleged that employees of Guaranteed Auto Sales told African American testers that they needed larger down payments than white testers for the same used cars, and told African American testers that they were required to fund their down payments in one lump sum, while they gave white testers an option of paying in two installments.
The federal Equal Credit Opportunity Act prohibits lending discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, because an applicant receives income from a public assistance program, or because an applicant has in good faith exercised any right under the Consumer Credit Protection Act. The Justice Department’s enforcement of fair lending laws is conducted by the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section. Additional information about the Section’s fair lending enforcement can be found at www.justice.gov/fairhousing.
Jersey City Police Officer Charged with Fraud Involving Off-Duty Work AssignmentsRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Jersey City police officer was charged today with conspiring to defraud Jersey City by obtaining compensation for off-duty work that she did not perform, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Gicella Sanchez, 36, of Jersey City, is charged by complaint with one count of conspiracy to defraud a local government. She is expected to appear today by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy L. Waldor.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Private contractors and businesses sometimes require the services of off-duty Jersey City police officers for certain projects, including work that could obstruct the flow of traffic. The off-duty assignments were made by a Jersey City Police Department-designated coordinator for the district in which the assignment was to be carried out. Officers receiving these off-duty assignments were required to complete and provide to the coordinator a voucher that indicated, among other things, the hours worked on particular off-duty assignments.
From November 2014 through June 2016, Sanchez conspired with another Jersey City police officer who was authorized to assign off-duty work and sign vouchers. That officer – with Sanchez’s knowledge and consent – submitted phony vouchers to Jersey City indicating that Sanchez had completed certain off-duty assignments that she never actually performed. As a result, Sanchez was compensated well over $5,000 for off-duty work she never performed.
Sanchez faces a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.
U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Denahan in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s charge.
The Jersey City Police Department is cooperating with the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Farrell of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Special Prosecutions Division in Newark.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Indictment Charges 9 Individuals Connecticut to Statewide Drug RingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Norwich Police Chief Patrick J. Daley today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford has returned an indictment charging nine individuals with narcotics offenses related to their alleged involvement in a statewide drug ring.
The indictment was returned on June 30 and unsealed yesterday after six of the defendants were arrested.
This matter stems from a joint investigation led by the FBI and the Norwich, New London and Hartford Police Departments into a narcotics distribution network that stretched from southeastern Connecticut to the Hartford, New Britain and Waterbury areas. The investigation has included court-authorized wiretaps, surveillance, search warrants, and seizures of cocaine and crack cocaine.
The four-count indictment charges each of the following individuals with conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, various quantities of cocaine and/or cocaine base (“crack cocaine”):
LUIS CARRASQUILLO, a/k/a “Cuchi,” 49, of Hartford
JASHUA CARASQUILLO, a/k/a “Chuy,” 25, of Hartford
AARON CLAYTON, a/k/a “Ace,” 52, of New Britain
DARRICK SHELBY, a/k/a “Butch, and “Butchy Brown,” 60, of Norwich
HECTOR UMPIERRE, 57, of Waterbury
DARRIN HARRIS, 44, of Norwich
JERMAINE NEWELL, 34, of Waterbury
FRANK BIGGS, 62, of Hamden
KELLY MCGILL, 50, of NorwichThe indictment alleges that, between November 2019 and March 2020, each defendant conspired to distribute various narcotics. If convicted of this charge, based on the type and quantity of narcotics involved, seven of the nine defendants face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of at least five years. Based on his criminal history, Luis Carrasquillo faces a mandatory term of imprisonment of 15 years. Harris and Newell face a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
On March 17, 2020, law enforcement conducted court-authorized searches of the residences of Luis Carrasquillo, Jashua Carrasquillo and Aaron Clayton and seized approximately three kilograms of cocaine and nearly $100,000 in cash. No arrests were made at the time due to concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Luis Carrasquillo, Jashua Carrasquillo, Clayton, Shelby, Umpierre and Newell were arrested yesterday. Harris, Biggs and McGill are being sought by law enforcement.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Norwich, New London and Hartford Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret Donovan and Maria del Pilar Gonzalez.
Independence Day Message from U.S. Attorney William M. McSwainRead the Press Release
To the Residents of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania:
I wanted to wish you and your families a wonderful holiday weekend, as we celebrate the birth of our nation on July 4th. The last four months have been a time for critical thinking about a lot of things, including our values. Self-examination is a good thing: it helps us, individually and as a nation, to improve. And putting that sort of meaningful, critical thinking into action is only possible in a free and democratic society like ours. It is one of the defining characteristics of America.
Two years ago, I reflected on the meaning of the American experiment at my investiture, and here is what I said:
“I love this country. I love what she stands for. The history of the world is largely a history of tribal warfare, monarchy, grinding poverty and misery. And then . . . there’s America. America is the greatest force for good in the history of the world. It is a country founded on ideas. And not just any ideas, but the right ideas – ideas that have unlocked human potential and enabled human flourishing. Self-government, freedom, liberty, individual rights, freedom of speech, freedom of thought, freedom of religion, free markets, capitalism, economic opportunity, and equality under the law.”
Those words were true then, they are true today, and they will remain true as we embrace the future. We have a lot of important work left to do to make our country better. We cannot be complacent. But this holiday weekend is an appropriate time to focus on what unites us as Americans. God Bless you and your families, and God Bless the United States of America.
Sincerely,
Bill McSwain
Howe Man Sentenced to 36 Months Probation, $150,000 Restitution for Conversion of Mortgaged PropertyRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ronald Justin Johnson, age 38, of Howe, Oklahoma was sentenced to 3 years of probation and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $150,117.68 for Conversion Of Mortgaged Property, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 658. The charges arose from an investigation by the United States Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General (“OIG”).
The Indictment alleged that from April 1, 2016 through July 14, 2016, the defendant knowingly and with intent to defraud, willfully disposed of and converted to his own use certain property, to-wit: thirty-two (32) head of cattle, said property having a value in excess of $1,000.00, and which was at the time of said disposition and conversion, mortgaged, pledged to and held by the United States Department of Agriculture – Farm Service Agency.
United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “People who receive the benefits of federal loan programs through the Farm Service Agency do so with the knowledge and understanding that they have certain obligations that must be fulfilled as part of the loan agreement. Failure to fulfill those obligations jeopardizes programs intended to assist those in need of funding to support agricultural businesses. I commend the Department of Agriculture OIG for its diligence in identifying and investigating these crimes in Eastern Oklahoma.”
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ben Gifford represented the United States.Harrisburg Woman Sentenced for Stealing from Credit UnionRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Brooke Shaeffer, age 24, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on June 30, 2020, by the Honorable Jennifer P. Wilson to five years of probation for stealing from Members 1st Federal Credit Union.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Shaeffer previously pleaded guilty to the crime and admitted that in March 2017, she stole approximately $19,599 while employed as a teller at the credit union’s branch in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania.
Full restitution in the amount of $19,599 was made prior to sentencing.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlo D. Marchioli prosecuted the case.
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Hammond Man Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Devon Gibson, age 24, of Hammond, Indiana was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon upon his plea of guilty to a bank fraud scheme in which he forged checks, deposited them at area ATMs, and withdrew funds, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
Mr. Gibson was sentenced to 48 months in prison. The sentence includes a two-year mandatory minimum sentence for aggravated identity theft.
“We appreciate the work of the FBI and Hammond Police Department in resolving this case,” said U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch. “These types of crimes are not victimless and our law enforcement partners will continue to investigate, and we will prosecute offenses like this one.”
According to documents in this case on March 3, 2020, Gibson pled guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. Gibson’s bank fraud scheme spanned 18 months. During that time, he created forged checks, deposited them, and withdrew as much money as the bank allowed. He recruited others to provide him with bank accounts that he could use to deposit fraudulent checks or with identity information of unknowing persons that Gibson could use to open bank accounts. Investigators were able to identify 200 fraudulent checks and over three dozen bank accounts linked to the scheme.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation GRIT Task Force and the Hammond Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra McTague.
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Glenwood Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Being A Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
Hot Springs, Arkansas – David Clay Fowlkes, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, announced that Jacob Anzaldua, age 39, of Glenwood, Arkansas, was sentenced today to 180 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release for one count of being a Felon In Possession of a Firearm. The Honorable Chief Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Hot Springs.
On or about May 4, 2018, around 3:00 a.m., Anzaldua broke into the John Pylar's Home Center located in Glenwood, Arkansas. Anzaldua was captured on surveillance footage and was observed operating a distinct 1998 Ford pick-up truck. On or about May 5, 2018, around 9:00 p.m., a Special Agent with the ASP observed the distinct 1998 Ford pick-up truck, operated by Anzaldua and attempted to stop it. Anzaldua failed to stop the vehicle and fled from the officer. Ultimately, Anzaldua's vehicle underwent a mechanical failure and came to a stop. Anzaldua was placed under arrest and his vehicle was searched. The search resulted in officers locating a loaded defaced handgun behind the center console.
Anzaldua was indicted by a federal grand jury in August 2019, and entered a guilty plea in October of 2019.
This case was prosecuted as a part of the Department of Justice=s Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative, which is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of firearms and improving the safety of residents in the Western District of Arkansas. Participants in the initiative include federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
This case was investigated by the Arkansas State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Fire, Tobacco, and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Bryan Achorn and Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA) Trent Daniels prosecuted the case for the United States.
Ghislaine Maxwell Charged in Manhattan Federal Court for Conspiring with Jeffrey Epstein to Sexually Abuse MinorsRead the Press Release
Additionally Charged With Perjury in Connection With 2016 Depositions
Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, William F. Sweeney Jr., the Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), and Dermot Shea, Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced that GHISLANE MAXWELL was arrested this morning and charged with enticing a minor to travel to engage in criminal sexual activity, transporting a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, conspiracy to commit both of those offenses, and perjury in connection with a sworn deposition. The Indictment unsealed today alleges that between at least in or about 1994 through 1997, MAXWELL and co-conspirator Jeffrey Epstein exploited girls as young as 14, including by enticing them to travel and transporting them for the purpose of engaging in illegal sex acts. As alleged, knowing that Epstein had a preference for young girls, MAXWELL played a critical role in the grooming and abuse of minor victims that took place in locations including New York, Florida, and New Mexico. In addition, as alleged, MAXWELL made several false statements in sworn depositions in 2016. MAXWELL is expected to be presented this afternoon in the in federal court in New Hampshire. This case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Alison J. Nathan.
Acting U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said: “As alleged, Ghislaine Maxwell facilitated, aided, and participated in acts of sexual abuse of minors. Maxwell enticed minor girls, got them to trust her, and then delivered them into the trap that she and Jeffrey Epstein had set. She pretended to be a woman they could trust. All the while, she was setting them up to be abused sexually by Epstein and, in some cases, Maxwell herself. Today, after many years, Ghislaine Maxwell finally stands charged for her role in these crimes.”
FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “Preserving the innocence of children is among the most important responsibilities we carry as adults. Like Epstein, Ms. Maxwell chose to blatantly disregard the law and her responsibility as an adult, using whatever means she had at her disposal to lure vulnerable youth into behavior they should never have been exposed to, creating the potential for lasting harm. We know the quest for justice has been met with great disappointment for the victims, and that reliving these events is traumatic. The example set by the women involved has been a powerful one. They persevered against the rich and connected, and they did so without a badge, a gun, or a subpoena - and they stood together. I have no doubt the bravery exhibited by the women involved here has empowered others to speak up about the crimes of which they've been subjected.”
NYPD Commissioner Dermot Shea said: “The heinous crimes these charges allege are, and always will be abhorrent for the lasting trauma they inflict on victims. I commend our investigators, and law enforcement partners, for their continuing commitment to bringing justice to the survivors of sexual assault, everywhere.”
If you believe you are a victim of the sexual abuse perpetrated by Jeffrey Epstein, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL FBI, and reference this case.
According to the Indictment[1] unsealed today in Manhattan federal court:
From at least 1994 through at least 1997, GHISLAINE MAXWELL assisted, facilitated, and participated in Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse of minor girls by, among other things, helping Jeffrey Epstein to recruit, groom, and ultimately abuse victims known to MAXWELL and Epstein to be under the age of 18. The victims were as young as 14 years old when they were groomed and abused by MAXWELL and Epstein, both of whom knew that their victims were in fact minors. As a part and in furtherance of their scheme to abuse minor victims, MAXWELL and Epstein enticed and caused minor victims to travel to Epstein’s residences in different states, which MAXWELL knew and intended would result in their grooming for and subjection to sexual abuse.
As alleged, MAXWELL enticed and groomed minor girls to be abused in multiple ways. For example, MAXWELL attempted to befriend certain victims by asking them about their lives, taking them to the movies or taking them on shopping trips, and encouraging their interactions with Epstein. MAXWELL also acclimated victims to Epstein’s conduct simply by being present for victim interactions with Epstein, which put victims at ease by providing the assurance and comfort of an adult woman who seemingly approved of Epstein’s behavior. Additionally, to make victims feel indebted to Epstein, MAXWELL would encourage victims to accept offers of financial assistance from Epstein, including offers to pay for travel or educational expenses. MAXWELL also normalized and facilitated sexual abuse by discussing sexual topics with victims, encouraging them to massage Epstein, and undressing in front of a victim.
As MAXWELL and Epstein intended, these grooming behaviors left minor victims vulnerable and susceptible to sexual abuse by Epstein. MAXWELL was then present for certain sexual encounters between minor victims and Epstein, such as interactions where a minor victim was undressed, and ultimately MAXWELL was present for sex acts perpetrated by Epstein on minor victims. That abuse included sexualized massages during which a minor victim was fully or partially nude, as well as group sexualized massages of Epstein involving a minor victim where MAXWELL was present.
As alleged, minor victims were subjected to sexual abuse that included, among other things, the touching of a victim’s breasts or genitals, placing a sex toy such a vibrator on a victim’s genitals, directing a victim to touch Epstein while he masturbated, and directing a victim to touch Epstein’s genitals. MAXWELL and Epstein’s victims were groomed or abused at Epstein’s residences in New York, Florida, and New Mexico, as well as MAXWELL’s residence in London, England.
Additionally, in 2016, while testifying under oath in a civil proceeding, MAXWELL repeatedly made false statements, including about certain specific acts and events alleged in the Indictment.
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GHISLAINE MAXWELL, 58, is charged with one count of enticing a minor to travel to engage in illegal sex acts, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, one count of conspiracy to entice a minor to travel to engage in illegal sex acts, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, one count of transporting a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, one count of conspiracy to transport a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, and two counts of perjury, each of which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.
The statutory maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be determined by the judge.
Ms. Strauss praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and the NYPD.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alex Rossmiller, Alison Moe, and Maurene Comey are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment, and the description of the Indictment set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described therein should be treated as an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Former Massachusetts Resident Involved in New Haven-Based Drug Ring Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SHAVAR BELLAMY, also known as “Lil B,” “LB” and “Little Black,” 34, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by four years of supervised release, for trafficking crack cocaine.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the sentencing occurred via videoconference.
This matter stems from an investigation headed by the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force and New Haven Police Department that targeted drug trafficking and related acts of violence by members, former members and associates of the “Island Brothers” street gang in New Haven. The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, also revealed that the drug trafficking organization had established a base of operation in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. The investigation subsequently identified a second drug trafficking network that involved the large-scale distribution of heroin.
Bellamy, who resided in Fitchburg during the investigation, regularly received crack cocaine from co-conspirators in Connecticut and distributed the drug in the Fitchburg area. He also wire-transferred proceeds of his drug sales to his Connecticut associates.
On July 9, 2019, a grand jury in New Haven returned a 15-count indictment charging Bellamy and 24 other individuals with various offenses.
Bellamy has been detained since May 30 2019, when he was arrested on state drug charges in Massachusetts. On November 22, 2019, he pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”).
Bellamy’s criminal history includes multiple convictions.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force, New Haven Police Department, Milford Police Department, Hamden Police Department, East Haven Police Department, Connecticut State Police, Connecticut Department of Correction and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan, Peter D. Markle and Elena L. Coronado.
Former Hoosick Falls Resident Charged with Receipt and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – William Hines, age 42, formerly of Hoosick Falls, New York, appeared in court today on charges of receiving and possessing child pornography.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Kevin Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
A criminal complaint alleges that in January 2017, in Rensselaer County, Hines downloaded child pornography from a foreign website and possessed numerous images of child pornography on his cell phone and a computer. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty
Hines was arrested on April 20, 2020 in Hudson, Florida, and then transported to the Northern District of New York. Today, Hines was ordered detained pending further proceedings.
If convicted of all charges in the complaint, Hines faces at least 5 years and up to 20 years in prison, at least 5 years and up to lifetime post-imprisonment supervised release, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case is being investigated by HSI with the assistance of the Hoosick Falls Police Department and the New York State Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia G. Suarez.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
Florence Man Sentenced to 156 Months for Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
COVINGTON, Ky. - A Florence, Kentucky man, Dylan G. Roland, 29, was sentenced on Thursday, to 156 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, for distribution of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to his plea agreement, Roland admitted to distributing methamphetamine in April 2019, in Boone County. Roland further admitted that officers conducted a vehicle stop of two men who had just left his residence, discovering 30 grams of methamphetamine and a firearm. Roland’s residence was then searched, where officers located 14 grams of methamphetamine, 30 grams of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, approximately $2,500 in cash, and two firearms.
Under federal law, Roland must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence; and upon his release, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for four years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and James Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Division, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by the FBI. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wade Napier.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney Robert Duncan Jr., coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
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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Federal Inmates Withdraw COVID-19 Class Action Lawsuit After Failing to Show BOP Violated Their Constitutional RightsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Eleven inmates housed at the Federal Correctional Complex in Butner, North Carolina (“FCC Butner”) voluntarily dismissed their lawsuit against Federal Bureau of Prisons (“BOP”) officials seeking release from prison as a result of the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to court documents, the federal inmates, who are represented by several advocacy groups, filed a petition for writ of habeas corpus, temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction on behalf of themselves and a purported class of current and future medically vulnerable inmates. The inmates alleged violations of their Eighth Amendment rights related to FCC Butner's response to the COVID-19 crisis, and sought relief including mass release or transfer of inmates from FCC Butner in order to facilitate social distancing. BOP officials filed substantial responses detailing the significant steps BOP and FCC Butner have taken to manage the crisis at FCC Butner.
On June 11, 2020, United States District Court Judge Louise W. Flanagan denied the inmates’ motion for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction, finding that the BOP officials made reasonable efforts toward the goals of preventing unnecessary illness and death and slowing the spread of the virus, that the claims were not appropriate under a habeas petition, and even if they were, the inmates failed to show a likelihood of success on the merits or that equity and public interests favor a temporary restraining order. (See attached order). On Monday, the inmates filed a stipulation of dismissal essentially withdrawing their remaining claims.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina commented: “Effectively managing prisons is a complex and difficult job on any day, but especially so in the midst of a global pandemic which affects so many people both inside and outside of the prison system. We are gratified that the court, in its ruling denying the inmates’ request for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction, recognized the efforts that officials at FCC Butner have made to minimize the risk of virus infection to the prisoners while doing their usual excellent job at maintaining order and ensuring the safety of the public in operating these critical facilities. I fully support the professional way in which that the FCC Butner officials continue to maintain the safety and security of the individuals housed within their institutions and the responsible manner in which they are managing the COVID-19 crisis.”
Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Bredenberg, Genna D. Petre, Christina Kelley, Mallory Brooks Storus, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Rogers defended the case on behalf of the BOP officials.
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. 5:20-HC-02088-FL.
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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.
Federal Authorities Seize over $80,000 in Funds Tied to COVID-19 Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Federal authorities have seized $80,661.05 in funds held at bank accounts allegedly used to perpetuate COVID-19 unemployment fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray. The federal seizure warrant was executed by U.S.
Picture of COVID-19 Fraud Hotline 866-720-5721 or justice.gov/DisasterComplaintFormSecret Service agents and was unsealed in federal court today. Earlier this week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced the seizure of $48,742.50, also allegedly tied to a COVID-19 unemployment fraud scheme.
Reginald A. DeMatteis, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, Charlotte Field Office, joins U.S. Attorney Murray in making today’s announcement.
The affidavit filed in support of the federal warrant alleges that the funds were seized as part of an ongoing investigation of a COVID-19 unemployment fraud scheme that implicates bank accounts purportedly opened by individuals in the Western District of North Carolina. As alleged in court documents, the bank accounts identified in the seizure warrant were allegedly used to transfer to scammers funds fraudulently obtained from federal and state unemployment benefit programs put in place to provide financial assistance to qualifying individuals impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. The warrant alleges that scammers have targeted these programs and have exploited them for their benefit.
Court documents allege that the scammers carried out the fraud by using identity theft victims’ Personally Identifiable Information (PII) to apply for unemployment benefits online. Then, at the direction of the fraudsters, bank account holders were directed to receive the fraud proceeds and to conduct financial transactions with those proceeds, or to transfer the money to other bank accounts, often located overseas. In many instances, the bank account holders that received or made transactions with the stolen funds were not aware they were being exploited to carry out financial fraud. Rather, as the filed affidavit alleges, in many instances, the individuals who opened the bank accounts used to perpetuate the fraud were led to believe they were involved in online romantic relationships with the fraudsters.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Murray commended the U.S. Secret Service for their investigative work in this case and for their ongoing efforts to combat fraud related to COVID-19. He also thanked financial institutions in Western North Carolina for their cooperation and their efforts to detect and report COVID-19 financial fraud.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Bain-Creed, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte, is handling the federal warrants.
U.S. Attorney Murray also urged the public to remain alert in detecting COVID-19 fraud and to report suspicious activity to the local authorities, or by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form. Members of the public in the Western District of North Carolina are also encouraged to call 704-344-6222 to reach their local Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator at the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Durham Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – A man who pleaded guilty to transportation of child pornography was sentenced today to eight years in prison, announced Matthew G.T. Martin, United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina.
BRIAN ROBERT ACKERMAN, 39, of Durham, North Carolina, pleaded guilty on December 13, 2019, to one count of transportation of child pornography. He was sentenced by Chief United States Chief District Judge Thomas D. Schroeder to 96 months of imprisonment followed by 15 years of supervised release.
ACKERMAN came to law enforcement’s attention following a report to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and an illicit chat conversation with an undercover FBI agent, during which ACKERMAN condoned and encouraged the undercover FBI agent to sexually abuse his purported 9-year-old daughter. Further, ACKERMAN sent child pornography to at least three individuals: an Orange County woman, the undercover FBI agent, and a person purporting to be a 16 year-old girl. The files depicted the sexual abuse of prepubescent children and at least one toddler. At the time of his arrest, investigators found ACKERMAN in possession of 41 images and 49 videos depicting child pornography.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation Task Force and the Durham Police Department with assistance from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. All are members of the North Carolina Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice to combat online child sexual exploitation and abuse, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Eric L. Iverson and Whitney N. Shaffer. 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 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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Deltona Man Sentenced for Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Bobby Morlen (54, Deltona) to two years in federal prison for theft of government funds. As part of his sentence, the court also entered a money judgment of $131,457.16, the amount of proceeds from the offense, and ordered Morlen to pay restitution. A federal jury had found Morlen guilty on January 22, 2020.
According to evidence presented at trial, Morlen’s mother was receiving benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Morlen’s mother died on August 18, 2014. Her death was not reported to the SSA or the VA, and the agencies continued to make benefit payments into her bank account. Morlen was a joint accountholder on the account into which his mother’s benefits were being deposited. He used the funds deposited after her death for his own personal expenses. In total, Morlen stole approximately $131,457.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.
Defendant Charged in Connection with Fraudulent Silver Trading Program Pleads Guilty to Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY – Denise Gunderson Rust, one of three individuals charged in connection with an alleged scheme to defraud investors by inducing them to purchase investments in a fraudulent silver trading program, pleaded guilty to money laundering in federal court late last week.
Gaylen Rust owned and managed Rust Rare Coin, Inc. (RRC), R Legacy Entertainment LLC, R. Legacy Racing Inc., R Legacy Investments LLC, R Legacy Ranch, and Legacy Music Alliance. Denise Rust was listed as the secretary of RRC and had signatory authority on several RRC bank accounts. Joshua Rust was manager of RRC from 2004 to Nov. 15, 2018. He also had signatory authority on several RRC bank accounts and managed the day-to-day operations of the RRC coin shop.
The silver trading program was offered and sold to around 700 investors throughout the United States. The defendants collected approximately $200 million.
Denise Gunderson Rust, 60, of Layton was charged in the case along with Gaylen Dean Rust, 59, of Layton and Joshua Daniel Rust, age 37, of Draper. Cases against the two men are pending.
“Denise Rust participated in one of largest and most financially destructive frauds Utah has ever seen. Based on this conduct, we have secured a conviction against her for laundering investor money for her own personal benefit,” U.S. Attorney John W. Huber said. “We remain committed to seek justice for the nearly 700 victims who have suffered catastrophic economic consequences from this fraud.”
“We are pleased at these first steps toward justice in this matter,” said Thomas Brady, Director of the Utah Division of Securities. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office has done exemplary work.
“Instead of doing the right thing, Denise Rust helped perpetuate a multi-million dollar Ponzi scheme that duped investors for more than 20 years,” said Special Agent in Charge Paul Haertel of the FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office. “This case shows just how convincing fraudsters can be. We urge due diligence when looking to invest and immediately report fraud to the FBI.”
“Denise Rust knew that the millions of dollars of investors’ money she diverted into another business was from a Ponzi scheme,” said Las Vegas Field Office Special Agent in Charge Tara Sullivan. “People who create schemes that have no purpose other than to mislead others and defraud the IRS run the very high risk of prosecution."
Denise Gunderson Rust pleaded guilty to a Felony Information charging one count of money laundering. As a part of her plea agreement, she admitted that she conducted a money transaction using proceeds derived from unlawful activity.
She admitted that by that date, she was aware that Gaylen Rust had collected millions of dollars by offering and selling a silver trading program to many investors located throughout the United States. She admitted knowing that Rust had misrepresented to investors that their money would be used to purchase and trade significant amounts of physical silver bullion.
On Oct. 17, 2018, Denise Gunderson Rust admitted she transferred $12,000 from a bank account in Utah, where investor money was pooled, to her daughter in Alaska. The payment to her daughter was unrelated to the silver trading program.
The plea agreement includes an agreement that the Court will impose a sentence of between five years’ probation and 18 months in prison. The stipulated sentencing range is subject to the approval of the Court. She has also agreed to pay restitution in the approximate amount of $1,774,357.93. The exact amount of restitution and the schedule of payments will be determined during the sentencing hearing. She also agreed to forfeit $12,000 in money she acquired traceable to the criminal conduct. A sentencing date has not been set. Denise Rust is not in custody.
The indictment charging the Rusts alleges that from around 1996 and continuing to Nov. 15, 2018, the defendants conspired to defraud investors and potential investors by offering and inducing them to purchase investments in a silver trading program. According to the indictment, Gaylen Rust, who offered and sold investments in the program, made false and fraudulent statements regarding his scheme, both directly and indirectly, to investors and potential investors through various means including meetings, phone calls, mailings, and emails.
Among other things, the indictment alleges the defendants failed to disclose to investors that their funds would be used for purposes other than to invest in silver and trading silver; that Gaylen Rust was not licensed to sell securities, trade commodities or operate a commodity pool; that investor funds were being laundered through transfers in and out of the defendants’ personal accounts; and that investment account statements provided to investors were false and not based on actual silver trades.
In order to convince investors that their investments were profitable and to convince potential investors that the silver program was earning money, the defendants operated the trading program as a Ponzi scheme. The defendants used investment money from later investors to pay the promised returns to earlier investors, creating the false impression that the silver trading program was profitable, the investments were safe and secure, and that the promised returns were being generated. Ponzi payments of approximately $150 million were made to investors, representing those payments as profits from the operation of the silver trading program.
Gaylen Rust and Joshua Rust are charged with wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy in the case. Gaylen Rust also faces two counts of securities fraud and Joshua Rust is charged with one count of money laundering.
The potential maximum penalties for wire fraud conspiracy, securities fraud and money laundering conspiracy are up to 20 years in federal prison per count. Securities fraud has a 20-year maximum sentence sand money laundering has a potential 10-year sentence.
Indictments are not findings of guilt. Individuals charged in indictments are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty in court.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys in Salt Lake City are prosecuting the case. Special agents with the Utah Division of Securities, the FBI, and IRS-Criminal Investigation are investigating the case. The Securities Exchange Commission, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, and the Utah Attorney General’s Office have filed related cases.
Cocaine and Crack Dealer Involved in Shootout Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A Portsmouth man was sentenced today to 16 years in prison for his role in trafficking five kilograms or more of cocaine and 280 grams or more of crack cocaine and for possessing with intent to distribute at least 28 grams of crack cocaine.
“Charles Algernon Boomer III has a criminal history that includes nearly 100 criminal charges, and more than 40 total convictions,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “In this case, Boomer trafficked wholesale amounts of powder and crack cocaine from two Portsmouth drug premises, one across the street from an elementary school. Boomer is precisely the type of defendant that has the full attention of this office and our investigative partners as we work together to rid our streets of criminals who pose a great danger to the safety of our communities.”
According to court documents, Boomer, 44, a 13-time felon with three drug-trafficking convictions, operated a drug premises across the street from an elementary school. That residence was the subject of a botched armed robbery in which Boomer's co-conspirator, who was providing security, exchanged gunfire with the would-be robbers and sustained gunshot wounds. Police caught Boomer trying to escape in a car while sitting on wholesale amounts of crack cocaine, powder cocaine, and marijuana, bundles of cash, and a gun loaded with an extended magazine was on the floorboard next to him. When Boomer exited the car, the arresting officer observed more cash falling out of Boomer's pant legs and recovered from Boomer's pockets even more cash and another magazine matching the gun.
Officers searched Boomer’s residence and observed more crack, powder cocaine, and marijuana in the kitchen sitting next to drug packaging and manufacturing materials, a bag of crack sitting in the driveway, and another bag of crack sitting in the backseat of a vehicle parked in front of the residence. They also recovered dozens of spent shell casings that were scattered throughout the inside and outside of the residence and observed bullet holes in the walls, furniture, and even the refrigerator.
The case was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), Operation Promotional Deceit. The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Jesse R. Fong, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Field Division; and Angela Greene, Chief of Portsmouth Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson. Assistant U.S. Attorney William B. Jackson prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:19-cr-191.
Career Criminal Sentenced to 20 Years for Armed Robbery and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Dale Clark, 47, of Shelbyville, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for Hobbs Act robbery, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and using a firearm during a federal crime of violence before the Honorable Travis R. McDonough in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Chattanooga. The convictions and sentence resulted from a plea agreement between Clark and the United States.
Court documents reflect that after 10 p.m., on July 21, 2019, Clark entered the Chally Wally convenience store in Shelbyville, and pointed a handgun at the clerk while demanding money. Clark then went behind the counter, grabbed the clerk violently by the hair, and pointed the gun at her head while forcing her to the ground. The clerk handed the money over, and was forced into a backroom. Clark threatened to "blow her head off," before striking her in the head and leaving the store with the stolen money.
Following a successful investigation, Shelbyville police officers obtained arrest and search warrants for Clark and his residence. During the search, a K-9 officer was able to locate and remove Clark from the attic, where he was hiding. In the home, officers found clothing, a mask, and a gun that all matched the robber’s from surveillance footage obtained from the convenience store. The stolen money was not recovered, as Clark admitted to using the money to pay off drug debts.
At the time of the offense, Clark was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Court records show that due to Clark’s prior lengthy criminal history, he qualified to be sentenced as an armed career criminal.
Assistant United States Attorney Joe DeGaetano represented the United States.
The case resulted from an investigation by the Shelbyville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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Bench Trial Guilty Verdict in SWGA Meth Distribution CaseRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A Moultrie, Georgia drug dealer repeatedly caught in possession of large quantities of methamphetamine with intent to distribute the drugs was found guilty of his crimes, said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Louis Sands pronounced Samuel Howard, 26, of Moultrie, guilty of two counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Howard choose a bench trial before Judge Sands, which was held on September 23-24, 2019. Judge Sands rendered his verdict late yesterday afternoon. Howard faces a mandatory minimum ten years in federal prison, up to a maximum life imprisonment. Howard’s sentencing has not been scheduled. There is no parole in the federal system.
Howard was first arrested in possession of 82.5 grams of “ice” methamphetamine on October 11, 2016. According to facts presented at trial, a confidential source notified a Thomas County-Thomasville Narcotics agent that a man known as “Cruze” would be delivering a large quantity of methamphetamine to a person on North Church Street in Meigs, Georgia within the hour. Agents discovered Howard with the packaged methamphetamine, as well as a scale with methamphetamine residue, numerous empty plastic sandwich bags and $1,819.00 in cash. Howard was again arrested on April 26, 2018, this time with 225 grams of “ice” methamphetamine. A confidential source texted Howard to meet him at a McDonald’s restaurant in Adel, Georgia to purchase methamphetamine. Howard was taken into custody at that McDonald’s in possession of methamphetamine.
“This defendant acted brazenly, continuing to push more and more methamphetamine into our communities even after his first arrest. Criminal drug dealers face severe punishment in the federal system, including life without parole,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank the DEA, the GBI and the Thomas County-Thomasville Narcotics Unit for their excellent work in this case.”
“The severe punishment this defendant will face correctly reflects the criminal activities he engaged in. He continuously poisoned the community with “Ice” methamphetamine despite having been arrested previously for “Ice” distribution. The guilty verdict removes yet another dangerous criminal from our streets and sends a clear message to others who may choose to distribute this insidious drug,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “DEA, its law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney’s Office will relentlessly pursue and ultimately prosecute criminals like Mr. Howard.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and the Thomas County-Thomasville Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Bay Area Resident Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Conspiring to Commit Mail Fraud in Connection with Disability Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO - Linda Nguyen was sentenced to two years in prison for her role in a multi-million dollar mail fraud conspiracy, announced United States Attorney David L. Anderson and Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent in Charge John F. Bennett. The sentence was handed down by the Hon. Phyllis J. Hamilton, Chief U.S. District Judge.
Nguyen pleaded guilty to the charge on July 17, 2019. According to the plea agreement, Nguyen, 68, of Union City, engaged in a scheme to defraud California’s State Disability Insurance (SDI) program. The SDI program is designed to provide partial wage replacement benefits to eligible California workers who are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy. To receive SDI benefits, a claimant must file a claim for benefits supported by a Physician/Practitioner Certification attesting to the claimant’s disability. According to the plea agreement, Nguyen admitted that from January 2013 until January 2019, she agreed with a licensed physician and others to commit mail fraud by defrauding California’s SDI program. Specifically, Nguyen admitted she helped non-disabled persons prepare and submit fraudulent applications and certifications for SDI benefits. In exchange for her services, Nguyen charged the non-disabled SDI applicants a fee equal to 10% of the SDI benefits that they received. In addition, she paid the physician for each certification he completed for the fraudulent application.
Nguyen’s plea agreement contains four examples of individuals for whom she completed fraudulent applications. The agreement further describes how Nguyen paid a physician to complete and sign the practitioner disability certifications even though the applicants were never treated by the physician. Nguyen acknowledged in the agreement that the total loss attributable to the fraudulent scheme in which she participated is estimated to be between $3,500,000 and $9,500,000.
A federal grand jury indicted Nguyen on January 29, 2019, charging her with one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1349, and one count of substantive mail fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1341. Nguyen pleaded guilty to the conspiracy count and the substantive mail fraud count was dismissed at sentencing.
In addition to the prison term, Chief Judge Hamilton ordered Nguyen to serve a three year term of supervised release, to begin at the end of the prison term, and to pay restitution.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Vieira is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Alice Pai. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI with assistance from the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General and the California Employment Development Department.
Armed Trafficker Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Lazaro Aguilar, 20, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of possessing with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, was sentenced to serve 81 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Moynihan, who handled the case, stated that Aguilar was arrested on February 16, 2018, after officers from the Rochester Police Department, who were patrolling the area of Murray Street and Lyell Avenue, saw the defendant driving a vehicle with excessively tinted windows in violation the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law. After officers pulled the vehicle over, they identified Aguilar as the driver but he did not have a valid driver’s license. After ordering the defendant to exit the vehicle, officers searched Aguilar and found 32 small bags containing a mixture of heroin and fentanyl in his pocket. Officers also recovered a loaded pistol from the defendant’s pocket. Aguilar stated that he had the handgun for his protection, and that he had been shot at earlier.
Aguilar was again arrested on September 30, 2019, with 23 additional bags of fentanyl, and over $5,000 in United States currency.
The matter was brought by the United States Attorney’s Office as part of its Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative. 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 sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief La’Ron Singletary, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito, New York Field Office.
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