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Monday 11 May 2020
Nation Pays Tribute to Service and Sacrifice of Law Enforcement OfficersRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Tim Garrison will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and tribal law enforcement. The week is being observed this year from Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“Although we are grateful we did not witness any line-of-duty deaths of law enforcement officers in the Western District of Missouri in 2019,” Garrison said, “we are observing National Police Week in the shadow of the recent death of Springfield, Missouri, police officer Chris Walsh, who will be honored in Washington, D.C., at the national law enforcement memorial in 2021. We honor the memory of all of our nation’s law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect and serve their communities.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 PM (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
Mexican National Sentenced in Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Senior United States District Judge Laurie Smith Camp sentenced Rodolfo Genchi-Villal today to a term of imprisonment of 46 months. Genchi-Villal will serve a 5-year term of supervised release following his release from the Bureau of Prisons. There is no parole in the federal system. Genchi-Villal will be deported from the United States to Mexico after serving his prison term.
Genchi-Villal, 36, was convicted of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine with Juan Aguilar-Pacheco and Luis Angel Lorenzo-Gallardo in the Omaha area between May 2, 2019, and August 6, 2019. Genchi-Villal was arrested while he delivered approximately one pound of methamphetamine to a customer waiting in a parking lot.
On March 2, 2020, co-defendant Juan Aguilar-Pacheco was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 57 months and a 5-year term of supervised release. Aguilar-Pacheco will also be deported from the United States to Mexico after his prison term. The remaining defendant in the case, Luis Angel Lorenzo-Gallardo, is scheduled to be sentenced on June 1, 2020.
The case was primarily investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force.
Louisville Native Returns Home to Join U.S. Attorney's Office's Fight Against Violent Crime & Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is today announcing his appointment of Frank Dahl as a federal prosecutor in the Louisville, Kentucky-based U.S. Attorney’s Office which serves the 53 counties and nearly 2.5 million people of the Western District of Kentucky.
“As we begin Police Week, I can think of few more tangible ways to honor our law enforcement partners than to add a respected and experienced prosecutor of Frank Dahl’s caliber to our fight against violent crime and drug trafficking here in Louisville and across the Commonwealth,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Frank is well-respected by law men and women from his many years with one of our most important partners, the Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. His service as ‘a fed’ here will only enhance our relationship with that premier office.”
“As much as I was sorry to see Frank leave our office in 2018, I am just as happy to see that he has returned to Kentucky,” said Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney Tom Wine. “He has a keen mind and a great grasp of the law which will benefit the US Attorney’s Office as well as ours. I look forward to Frank working with our prosecutors as we continue to collaborate with the US Attorney's Office for the [Western District] of Kentucky.”
Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Dahl is a Louisville native and a graduate of the University of Louisville and UofL’s Brandeis School of Law. While in law school, he worked as a law clerk for the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and subsequently served as an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney in the office after his graduation. During his 12-year tenure as a state prosecutor in Louisville, Dahl rose quickly through the ranks and became the narcotics section chief. He tried numerous cases involving violent crime, drug trafficking, homicide, and firearms offenses.
In 2018, Dahl began work as an AUSA in Evansville Indiana, working for the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. During his time with that office, he earned a reputation as a prolific case developer and handled a variety of cases involving drug trafficking organizations, violent crime, firearms offenses, and drug overdoses. During his time in Evansville, Dahl worked with both federal and state law enforcement agencies located in Kentucky in support of his work in Indiana.
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Local strip mall property settles ADA allegationsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – The owners of a property known as A-S 76 on Highway 290 have settled allegations under Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to remove barriers and greatly improve physical accessibility, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
The United States initiated an investigation into A-S 76 Hwy 290 Bingle L.P. as part of a compliance review of strip shopping centers after receiving a complaint regarding a similar property. The investigation revealed that physical barriers existed at various locations in the parking lot and access points of the shopping center.
The settlement agreement requires the property owner to remedy all access barriers within six months.
Under the ADA, persons with disabilities shall be afforded the opportunity to participate in or benefit from the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages or accommodations equal to that afforded to other individuals. Title III mandates that no individual shall be discriminated against on the basis of a disability by any person who owns, leases or operates a place of public accommodation.
The Bingle Property is a place of public accommodation. As such, the owner is subject to Title III requirements.
The United States Attorney is authorized to commence a civil action, when he believes discrimination exists, seeking full compliance with the ADA, including requiring the owners and operators of places of public accommodations to remedy the violations.
The owner denies the allegations that it violated the ADA, but agreed to remedy all the alleged violations the United States has identified.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Keith Edward Wyatt and Annalisa Cravens handled this investigation with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Raymond Babauta.
Lawrenceburg Man Sentenced to 30 Months for Wire and Tax FraudRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — A Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, man, Joe G. Peavler, 53, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on Monday, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, after previously admitting to committing wire fraud and assisting in the preparation of a false income tax return.
In his plea agreement, Peavler admitted that, between 2004 and 2018, he managed a warehouse owned by someone else and, during that time, he devised a plan to rent space in the warehouse to two separate entities, keeping the money for himself without knowledge or authority by the owners. Peavler’s fraud scheme was furthered by interstate wire communications. Peavler also admitted to failing to declare this rent money on his tax returns, for each of the years he received the rent.
Peavler pleaded guilty in January 2020.
Under federal law, Peavler must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years, following his release. As part of his sentence, Peavler was also ordered to pay an excess of $1.5 million in restitution.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge for the Louisville Division of FBI; and Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and IRS. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Roth and Ken Taylor.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s efforts to identify and prosecute those persons who facilitate elder financial exploitation.
The Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Mission, being carried out through the Kentucky Elder Justice Task Force, is to seek justice for victims of elder financial exploitation. Anyone who knows someone who may be a victim of an elder financial exploitation, is encouraged to contact law enforcement.
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Kalamazoo Urogynecologist and Nurse Practioner Face Charges Related to Health Care Fraud and Adulteration of Medical DevicesRead the Press Release
Potential Victims Can Contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office Directly
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney Andrew B. Birge announced today separate charges brought against Roger D. Beyer, M.D., and his wife, Susan E. Wright, N.P., J.D. Dr. Beyer was the owner of Women’s Health Care Specialists, P.C. ("WHCS"), an obstetrics-gynecology practice in Kalamazoo, and Urological Solutions of Michigan, PLC ("USM"), a medical practice consisting of traveling nurse practitioners in West Michigan.
The Felony Information filed against Dr. Beyer charges him with conspiracy to commit health care fraud. The United States alleges that Dr. Beyer conspired to fraudulently bill Medicare for therapy services, known as pelvic muscle rehabilitation ("PMR") therapy, provided by USM, using more-lucrative and inappropriate diagnostic codes. The PMR therapy was provided purportedly to treat mostly elderly female patients with fecal or urinary incontinence, primarily in the greater Traverse City, Kalamazoo, and Grand Rapids areas.
The United States also alleges in the Felony Information that Dr. Beyer directed his staff at USM and WHCS to reuse a single-user (one patient only) rectal pressure sensor on multiple patients as part of the PMR therapy. Additionally, the United States alleges that WHCS staff also reused a single-use (disposable, one use only) anorectal manometry catheter on multiple patients as part of an initial diagnostic study with patients with potential fecal incontinence. Both instances of reuse were inconsistent with the device clearance by the Food & Drug Administration ("FDA") and the devices’ instructions for use. Further, this reuse resulted in the adulteration and possible contamination of these devices.
In a separate Felony Information, the United States charges Ms. Wright with misprision of health care fraud and the adulteration of a medical device. The United States alleges that Ms. Wright knew that USM fraudulently billed Medicare for evaluation and management ("E&M") services to patients on the same date of service as the PMR therapy, but she never informed authorities. The Felony Information against Ms. Wright similarly charges her with adulteration of a medical device, specifically the rectal pressure sensor in the manner described above for Dr. Beyer.
Both Dr. Beyer and Ms. Wright have signed plea agreements in their respective cases, and plea hearings are scheduled for May 15, 2020.
USM patients who were also Medicare beneficiaries may have been charged copays for the billing of their PMR therapy using the more lucrative diagnostic codes. Those same patients may also have been improperly charged copays for E&M services billed alongside their PMR therapy. Additionally, patients of USM and WHCS who received PMR therapy or diagnostic anorectal manometry may have been the recipients of services using adulterated medical devices. This adulteration posed a risk of infectious disease transmission. Such patients can review the press release issued by the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services on June 11, 2019, encouraging patients of Dr. Beyer and his practices to consult with their treating physicians about undergoing any testing:
https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339--499502--,00.html
Individuals who may have been affected by the fraudulent billing or device adulteration can contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan to obtain information about victim rights and the progression of these cases. The U.S. Attorney’s Office website includes a page with forms and information related to this case specifically for victims:
https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdmi/victim-and-witness-assistance-program/vw-large-cases/Beyer_Wright
Alternatively, potential victims may call Kathy Schuette, Victim Witness Coordinator, at (616) 808-2034.
Charges in an information are only allegations and are not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty, and the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Justice Department Releases $61 Million in Awards to Support Efforts to Combat Violent Crime in Seven U.S. CitiesRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department announced that the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) and the Office of Justice Programs’ Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) have awarded more than $61 million in grant funding to support the Attorney General’s Operation Relentless Pursuit (ORP) initiative.
Launched on Dec. 18, 2019, ORP aims to intensify federal law enforcement resources into seven American cities with violent crime levels several times the national average – Albuquerque, Baltimore, Cleveland, Detroit, Kansas City, Memphis, and Milwaukee.
“While violent crime is down across the country as a whole, some communities remain caught in the grips of violent actors,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “That’s why I launched Operation Relentless Pursuit last December – an initiative to combat violent crime in seven cities where it remains stubbornly high. Today’s grant awards are critical to our mission. We cannot succeed in eradicating crime without resources – the most vital of which are the brave men and women who serve and protect our communities each day. These funds will boost the forces that need them most.”
“Successful strategies to target and reduce violent crime are extremely resource intensive,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “There is no greater resource than additional men and women on the front lines of the relentless fight against gangs, drug traffickers and those that mean harm to our nation’s communities. The funding announced today is greatly needed for the Operation Relentless Pursuit jurisdictions and the COPS Office is honored to dedicate resources for this effort.”
“The responsibility for fighting crime and violence belongs to agencies at every level of government, and winning that fight turns on our ability to deploy our collective resources wisely and effectively,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are eager to make these funds available so that our federal, state and local partners can continue the vital and noble work of protecting America’s most dangerous communities.”
The COPS Office, through its COPS Hiring Program (CHP), awarded a total of $51 million to be used to hire 214 sworn law enforcement officers for state and local law enforcement task forces. The recipients of the funding will deploy existing veteran officers to task force duties and use the CHP funding to hire new recruits to backfill those positions, as practical. Officers deployed to Operation Relentless Pursuit task forces as a result of CHP funding must be sworn, career law enforcement officers of the awarded agency, and their work on the task force must benefit their jurisdiction. In addition, they are required to work with their respective U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) and relevant federal agencies to investigate and prosecute suspects involved in gangs, drug trafficking, and other violent crime – related issues.
For a breakdown of the awards, please click here. For more information on the COPS Hiring Program ORP grants, please visit: https://cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/2020AwardDocs/chp/FY20_Relentless_Pursuit_Fact_Sheet.pdf
The Bureau of Justice Assistance is making $10 million available to support Operation Relentless Pursuit. BJA funds will support efforts such as the hiring of additional prosecutors, overtime expenses for task force members, multi-agency investigations, mobile data terminals and modern technological platforms, and development of strategic plans to address gaps in combating violent crime.
Justice Department Files Statement of Interest Regarding Section 201 of the Voting Rights ActRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today filed a Statement of Interest in a South Carolina federal court to promote the proper and uniform interpretation of the Voting Rights Act. The Statement of Interest is part of the Department of Justice’s continuing efforts around the country to enforce our nation’s federal voting rights laws.
The lawsuit in question, brought by private plaintiffs, involves constitutional and statutory challenges to South Carolina’s witness requirement for absentee ballots. Although private plaintiffs’ constitutional claims relate to the COVID-19 pandemic, plaintiffs have also asked the court to enjoin South Carolina’s witness requirement permanently as a violation of Section 201 of the Voting Rights Act.
The Statement of Interest explains that Section 201 prohibits denial of the right to vote to citizens who fail to prove their qualifications by the voucher of registered voters or members of any other class. However, South Carolina’s absentee witness requirement does not violate Section 201 because it neither requires witnesses to vouch for a voter’s qualifications nor limits the set of acceptable witnesses to registered voters or any other relevant class. The Statement of Interest also explains that a claim under Section 201 must be heard by a three-judge federal district court. The Statement of Interest does not take a position on any of the private plaintiffs’ other claims.
“The Voting Rights Act outlaws certain practices that deprive Americans of the right to vote because of race and other protected traits. The Voting Rights Act does not outlaw all voting-related requirements enacted by the States,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “Congress has entrusted the U.S. Department of Justice with enforcement of the Voting Rights Act and the other federal voting rights laws. These laws protect the right of Americans to vote for their preferred candidates. We will continue to enforce them fairly, including by explaining to courts the legal framework that governs challenges to the voting laws enacted by the States.”
“This office will always ensure that the people of South Carolina have their voices heard in the voting booth,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina, Peter M. McCoy, Jr. “This filing indicates that we take that duty seriously, and we will continue to do so.”
Section 201 of the Voting Rights Act is a permanent, nationwide prohibition on the use of tests and devices in our elections. These unlawful procedures include literacy tests, educational achievement or knowledge tests, good moral character requirements, and voucher requirements.
More information about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting rights laws is available on the Department of Justice website at https://www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section. Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws may be reported to the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division at 1-800-253-3931.
Justice Department Awards More Than $8 Million to Address COVID-19 Pandemic in MinnesotaRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced that the state of Minnesota received more than $8 million in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant, awarded to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation. In addition to these funds, more than $3.6 million in funds have been allocated to local jurisdictions within the District of Minnesota. Those jurisdictions can find out if they are eligible and apply by visiting the Bureau of Justice Assistance website at https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. The Justice Department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
“These funds will provide additional resources for our dedicated public safety officials as they continue to selflessly serve the public during this pandemic,” said United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald. “Additionally, these funds are designed to be flexible to support a wide range of initiatives and projects, including purchasing protective gear and supplies, to help keep our front line officers safe.”
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude in the use of these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment and distributing resources to hard-hit areas. Funds may also be used to help correctional facilities cover costs related to COVID-19, including, but not limited to, sanitation, contagion prevention and measures designed to address the related medical needs of inmates, detainees and correctional personnel.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations. For a list of all awards thus far, visit the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program webpage.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Jefferson County man sentenced for role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jansen V. Carr, of Ranson, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years probation for selling cocaine, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Carr, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base” in October 2019. Carr admitted to selling cocaine base for $250 in August 2018 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and Assistant U.S Attorney Timothy D. Helman prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the Martinsburg Police Department, the Charles Town Police Department, and the Ranson Police Department investigated.
This prosecution was brought as a part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Co-located Strike Forces Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations against a continuum of priority targets and their affiliate illicit financial networks. These prosecutor-led co-located Strike Forces capitalize on the synergy created through the long-term relationships that can be forged by agents, analysts, and prosecutors who remain together over time, and they epitomize the model that has proven most effective in combating organized crime.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Jackson Woman Sentenced to 10 Months for Soliciting Kickbacks and Obstructing JusticeRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Jackson, Ky., woman, Theresa C. Merced, 81, was sentenced to five months imprisonment to be followed by five months of home detention, and was ordered to pay a $55,000 fine, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, following her convictions for soliciting kickbacks from a toxicology laboratory in exchange for urine drug testing referrals, lying to law enforcement agents about the kickback she received, and then attempting to cover up the kickback by requesting the alteration of certain financial records.
Merced, the office manager of a substance abuse treatment clinic in Jackson previously admitted that, between December 2018 and August 2019, she solicited kickbacks from the CEO of a toxicology lab in exchange for urine drug test referrals. In August 2019 the CEO delivered to Merced a $4,000 check as part of a larger package of promised inducements, which she caused to be cashed. When Merced was questioned about the check by law enforcement agents in September 2019, she denied knowledge of it, and stated that the $4,000 was probably a loan from the lab CEO to her husband. Shortly after her interview with the agents concluded, Merced called the lab CEO and asked that he alter the lab’s financial records so that the entry for the $4,000 check would say “rent/loan,” consistent with the lie she told the agents.
Under federal law, Merced must serve 85 percent of her prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years. As a special condition of her supervised release, Merced is prohibited from working in any capacity in which she influences referrals for medical testing.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Atlanta Field Office, and Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Kentucky Office of Attorney General, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul McCaffrey.
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Horizon City Man Faces Federal Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
In El Paso today, federal authorities filed a criminal complaint against 29–year-old Alex R. Barron for federal firearms charges, including a charge of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition and a charge involving the prohibited possession of a machine gun, announced U.S. Attorney John F. Bash and FBI Special Agent in Charge Luis M. Quesada, El Paso Division.
On May 8, 2020, federal authorities executed a series of search warrants, including a search warrant for the defendant’s residence, in connection with an investigation into the alleged posting on a social media application of a photograph of an AR-15 style rifle with a caption stating “…#watchoutwalmartimcoming #droplikeflys…” After recovering multiple firearms, including at least one fully automatic firearm equipped with a suppressor, and ammunition, authorities arrested Barron.
Barron’s criminal history reveals a 2012 felony conviction for a drug-related offense in El Paso County.
Upon conviction, Barron faces up to ten years in federal prison for each of the firearms charges. He remains in custody at this time.
The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, El Paso Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety are investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ian Hanna is 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.
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.
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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.
High Point Man Sentenced to 11.5 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm Offenses and Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
GREENSBORO, NC - On Monday, May 11, 2020, a judge in federal district court sentenced a High Point resident, JABRELL CRAIG SMITH, to a 138-month prison term, announced United States Attorney Matthew G.T. Martin of the Middle District of North Carolina.
Following a three day trial in Greensboro in January 2020, the jury found SMITH, age 27, guilty on all four charges in the Indictment, including possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, knowingly possessing a firearm after previously being convicted of a felony offense, and knowingly possessing a unregistered firearm.
Evidence presented at trial showed that on May 29, 2017, at approximately 2:00 a.m., officers from the Greensboro Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit followed and approached a black Chevrolet Malibu in the parking lot of a gas station located at 3302 South Holden Road in Greensboro. Police found an Intratec Tec-9 9mm Luger firearm sticking out from under the front passenger seat where SMITH had been seated. When officers recovered the weapon, they noticed that a red dot sighting system situated on top of the weapon was turned on and that a round of live ammunition had been chambered, making the Tec-9 ready to fire. The magazine contained twenty-six additional rounds of live ammunition. In the door pocket of the front passenger seat, officers recovered a plastic baggie containing 3.32 grams of heroin. At trial, the government presented text messages, videos, and photographs to establish that SMITH possessed the heroin for the purpose of distribution and that he was previously familiar with, and had access to, the Tec-9. The Tec-9 had a modification, a forward grip attached to the frame of the weapon, which made it subject to additional regulation and registration in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
At sentencing, the United States District Court imposed an aggregate 138-month prison term on all of the charges and a 4-year period of federal supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Greensboro Police Department, the High Point Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John M. Alsup.
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Hardy County man sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Larry Allen Lyons, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years’ probation, with the first three months incarceration, for methamphetamine distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lyons, age 55, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” in January 2020. Lyons admitted to working with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine from March 2018 to May 2018 in Mineral, Grant, and Randolph Counties.Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; and the Ravenswood Police Department investigated.
This prosecution was brought as a part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Co-located Strike Forces Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations against a continuum of priority targets and their affiliate illicit financial networks. These prosecutor-led co-located Strike Forces capitalize on the synergy created through the long-term relationships that can be forged by agents, analysts, and prosecutors who remain together over time, and they epitomize the model that has proven most effective in combating organized crime.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Gresham Man Charged with Smuggling and Importing Misbranded Chloroquine from China for Attempted ResaleRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams announced today that a Gresham, Oregon man has been charged with illegally purchasing, importing, and offering for sale chloroquine, the active pharmaceutical ingredient in prescription drugs used to treat malaria.
Matthew Owens, 42, has been charged by criminal complaint with smuggling and the receipt in interstate commerce of misbranded drugs and the delivery thereof for pay.
“Together, Americans are facing a public health emergency without precedent in our lifetimes. We are heartened by the countless examples of public service by front-line health workers, law enforcement, and ordinary Americans alike. These heroic acts of service inspire us all,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “And yet, there are some individuals actively trying to profit off the pandemic, and, in the process, putting more lives as risk. We will not let these selfish and dangerous criminal acts continue unchecked.”
“Drugs that are produced and distributed outside the FDA’s oversight present the prospect of harm to the public health. The FDA’s drug approval process is designed to ensure that patients receive safe and effective drugs,” said Special Agent in Charge Lisa L. Malinowski, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations (FDA-OCI) Los Angeles Field Office. “The FDA will not tolerate those who attempt to place the public health at risk, especially during a pandemic and we will take appropriate action to protect consumers from bad actors who take advantage of a crisis to deceive the public.”
“It’s unconscionable that individuals would prioritize their own greed over the health of others, particularly during a public health crisis,” said Eben Roberts, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Seattle. “Illicit distribution of narcotics put unsuspecting consumers at serious risk. HSI, and our law enforcement partners, will continue to seek and bring to justice anyone who attempts to use the current health emergency to exploit others.”
According to court documents, on April 13, 2020, HSI contacted FDA-OCI after a package containing 122.8 grams of a white powder was intercepted at a FedEx facility in Memphis, Tennessee. The package originated in Xiaoshan, China, and was addressed to Owens’ Gresham apartment. The enclosed substance was declared as ammonium polyphosphate but was later determined to be chloroquine. An invoice included with the substance described it as a “sample” having “no commercial value”, statements commonly used by persons improperly importing items and attempting to avoid detection.
Investigators searched FDA records and found neither “Hangzhou Weishi Electronic Commerce Co Ltd,” the entity who shipped the package, nor “Matthew Owens” as having registered any drug manufacturing facilities. A search of Oregon Medical Board, Oregon Board of Pharmacy, and Oregon State Board of Nursing public databases found no records indicating that Owens was a physician, pharmacist, or registered nurse.
As the investigation continued, special agents from FDA-OCI and HSI learned that two additional shipments were sent from China to Owens’ apartment. One contained resveratrol, a chemical commonly found in dietary supplements. The second contained polyacrylamide, a chemical compound primarily used in wastewater treatment, but also as an ingredient in certain cosmetics.
On April 27, 2020, agents from HSI, FDA-OCI, FBI, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) executed a search at Owens’ apartment. They seized laptop computers, cell phones, an unopened bag of clear, empty capsules for encapsulating pharmaceuticals, a foil bag containing an unknown powder, and a material safety data sheet for polyacrylamide.
A forensic search of Owens’ cell phones and Facebook Messenger messages associated with his cell phone number revealed conversations discussing the purchase and receipt of chloroquine from Alibaba.com, the world’s largest online business-to-business trading platform. Other messages discussed the offering of chloroquine for sale as a treatment for COVID-19.
Owens made his first appearance in federal court today after having been served a summons to appear on May 8, 2020. If convicted, Owens faces a maximum sentence of 23 years in federal prison, 3 years’ supervised release, and a $500,000 fine.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the FDA-OCI and HSI with assistance from the FBI and U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS). It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
On March 27, 2020, the FDA issued a public notice warning of the dangers of using chloroquine phosphate and warning the public to be wary of anyone claiming to have a product to prevent or cure COVID-19. The U.S. Attorney’s Office joins the FDA in imploring the public not to take any form of chloroquine unless it has been prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider and is obtained through a legitimate source.
If you or someone you know is in danger or experiencing a health emergency, please call 911.
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.
Gilmer County woman sentenced for role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kisha Starr Riggs, of Glenville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for her involvement in a methamphetamine distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Riggs, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location” in October 2019. Riggs admitted to selling methamphetamine near Glenville State College in September 2018 in Gilmer County.Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Lakes Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Former Rancho Cordova Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Bank FraudRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Monica Nunes, 40, of formerly of Rancho Cordova, pleaded guilty Thursday to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, Nunes and her co-defendants, Johnathon Ward and Talalima Toilolo, conspired to defraud financial institutions using a scheme called “refund fraud” or “force post refund fraud.” This scheme exploited the merchant refund process used by businesses and retail establishments to pay back customers for returns, reimbursements, and erroneous charges. The defendants posed as merchants and executed fraudulent debit or credit card refunds, which caused the unauthorized transfer of money from a merchant bank account to an account under the defendants’ control.
The defendants committed this scheme by stealing or purchasing point-of-sale (POS) terminals that were used by businesses to process bankcard transactions. The defendants programmed each terminal to make it appear as if it was authorized by a particular merchant, connected the terminals to payment processing intermediaries, and executed refund transactions even though no purchases had been made. The payment processors, falsely believing the terminals were authorized, approved the refunds and caused the merchants’ banks to transfer funds to the defendants’ accounts. The defendants then drained the stolen funds from the accounts. The indictment alleges that this scheme caused at least $3.5 million in intended losses.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Regional Enforcement Allied Computer Team (REACT) Task Force, which includes investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Artuz is prosecuting the case.
Charges are pending against Ward and Toilolo. The charges are only allegations; they are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Nunes is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Morrison C. England Jr. on Aug. 6. Nunes faces a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Former Emory University professor and Chinese “Thousand Talents” participant convicted and sentenced for filing a false tax returnRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – Xiao-Jiang Li has pleaded guilty to a criminal information charging him with filing a false tax return and was sentenced by a U.S. District Judge on the same day. Dr. Li, a former Emory University professor and Chinese Thousand Talents Program participant, worked overseas at Chinese Universities and did not report any of his foreign income on his federal tax returns.
“This defendant thought that he could live two, separate lives—one here at Emory University and one in China as a Thousand Talents Program participant,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “Eventually, the truth caught up to this defendant, and he is now a convicted felon who is ordered to repay over $35,000 to the IRS.”
“The Department of Justice remains vigilant over programs such as the Thousand Talents Program that recruits professors and researchers to work for China,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “In this case, Li was caught in his lack of transparency. We are grateful for the work our partners have done to bring light to this case.”
“IRS Criminal Investigation is diligent when it comes to enforcing tax laws directed at those who attempt to defraud our nation’s tax system," said James E. Dorsey, Special Agent in Charge of Atlanta Field Office. “This sentencing is an example that federal tax crimes will not go unpunished. Those consequences include being a convicted felon and paying back all the taxes owed including penalties and interest.”
“Li's actions demonstrated a flagrant disrespect for the law and taxpayers,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI and our federal partners will always pursue individuals like Li, who victimize innocent taxpayers for their own personal gain.”
“Our watchdog agency will continue to aggressively investigate anyone who does not adhere to agency rules regarding the disclosure of foreign funding and affiliations,” said Special Agent in Charge Derrick L. Jackson, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to bring these types of cases to justice.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges and other information presented in court: In late 2011, while employed at Emory University, Li joined the Thousand Talents Program, a Chinese-government talent recruitment initiative that targets professors and researchers to work in China. Starting in 2012 and continuing until 2018, Li, while still working at Emory University researching, among other things, the use of large animal models to investigate Huntington’s disease, also worked at two Chinese universities—first at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and then at Jinan University—conducting similar large animal model research. Over those six years, Li earned at least $500,000 in foreign income that he never reported on his federal income tax returns.
Li’s false income tax returns came to light after the National Institutes of Health (“NIH”) reviewed Li’s NIH research grant applications and became concerned that he had failed to disclose, among other things, foreign research activity. Those concerns prompted Emory University, and later, federal law enforcement, to investigate the matter, which revealed Li’s false tax returns.
Xiao-Jiang Li, 63, of Atlanta, Georgia, pleaded guilty on May 8, 2020, and was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $35,089. He was also ordered to file lawful income tax returns for the years 2012 through 2018 within the first two months of his probation and fully cooperate with the Examination Division, Internal Revenue Service, in making a complete and accurate determination of all taxes, penalties, and interest that he owes.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Department of Health and Human Services OIG investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Samir Kaushal and Department of Justice National Security Division Trial Attorney Matthew J. McKenzie prosecuted the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Former Emory University Professor and Chinese “Thousand Talents” Participant Convicted and Sentenced for Filing a False Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
On May 8, 2020, Dr. Xiao-Jiang Li, 63, of Atlanta, Georgia, pleaded guilty to a criminal information charging him with filing a false tax return and has been sentenced by a U.S. District Judge on the same day. Dr. Li, a former Emory University professor and Chinese Thousand Talents Program participant, worked overseas at Chinese Universities and did not report any of his foreign income on his federal tax returns.
“The Department of Justice remains vigilant over programs such as the Thousand Talents Program that recruits professors and researchers to work for China,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “In this case Li was caught in his lack of transparency. We are grateful for the work our partners have done to bring light to this case.”
“This defendant thought that he could live two, separate lives — one here at Emory University and one in China as a Thousand Talents Program participant,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “Eventually, the truth caught up to this defendant, and he is now a convicted felon who is ordered to repay over $35,000 to the IRS.”
"As this case demonstrates, the FBI is committed to working with our partners to prevent individuals from utilizing the Chinese Government’s talent plan programs to commit fraud against the United States government and our universities," said Acting Assistant Director Robert R. Wells of the FBI's Counterintelligence Division.
"Li's actions demonstrated a flagrant disrespect for the law and all taxpayers," said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. "The FBI and our federal partners will always pursue individuals like Li, who victimize innocent taxpayers for their own personal gain."
“IRS Criminal Investigation is diligent when it comes to enforcing tax laws directed at those who attempt to defraud our nation’s tax system," said James E. Dorsey, Special Agent in Charge of Atlanta Field Office. “This sentencing is an example that federal tax crimes will not go unpunished. Those consequences include being a convicted felon and paying back all the taxes owed including penalties and interest.”
“Our watchdog agency will continue to aggressively investigate anyone who does not adhere to agency rules regarding the disclosure of foreign funding and affiliations,” said Special Agent in Charge Derrick L. Jackson, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to bring these type cases to justice.”
According to the charges and other information presented in court: In late 2011, while employed at Emory University, Li joined the Thousand Talents Program, a Chinese-government talent recruitment initiative that targets professors and researchers to work in China. Starting in 2012 and continuing until 2018, Li, while still working at Emory University researching, among other things, the use of large animal models to investigate Huntington’s disease, also worked at two Chinese universities — first at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and then at Jinan University — conducting similar large animal model research. Over those six years, Li earned at least $500,000 in foreign income that he never reported on his federal income tax returns.
Li’s false income tax returns came to light after the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reviewed Li’s NIH research grant applications and became concerned that he had failed to disclose, among other things, foreign research activity. Those concerns prompted Emory University, and later federal law enforcement, to investigate the matter which revealed Li’s false tax returns.
Li was sentenced to one year of probation on a felony charge and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $35,089. He was also ordered to file lawful income tax returns for the years 2012 through 2018 within the first two months of his probation and fully cooperate with the IRS, in making a complete and accurate determination of all taxes, penalties, and interest that he owes.
The IRS Criminal Investigations, FBI, and Department of Health and Human Services investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Samir Kaushal and Department of Justice National Security Division Trial Attorney Matthew J. McKenzie prosecuted the case.
Former Co-Owner and CEO of Pharmacy Pleads Guilty in Prescription Drug Billing SchemeRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Today an additional defendant pled guilty in a long-running investigation into a prescription drug-billing scheme involving a Haleyville, Ala.-based pharmacy, Northside Pharmacy doing business as Global Compounding Pharmacy. U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp, Jr., U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Special Agent in Charge Derrick L. Jackson, Defense Criminal Investigative Service Special Agent in Charge Cynthia Bruce, United States Postal Inspector in Charge, Houston Division Adrian Gonzalez, and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Andrew Thornton announced the guilty plea.
John Jeremy Adams, 39 of Panama City Beach, Florida entered a guilty plea before U.S. District Judge L. Scott Coogler to one count of conspiring to commit health care and mail fraud, 16 counts of health care fraud, one count of conspiring to pay kickbacks to a prescriber, and seven counts of spending the proceeds of health care fraud. According to the plea agreement, Adams stipulated to a 10-year sentence.
Adams is the former owner and chief executive officer of Northside Pharmacy doing business as Global Compounding Pharmacy. Mr. Adam’s guilty plea brings the total number of defendants who have pled guilty in the larger investigation to 23. Those who have previously pled guilty include two nurse practitioners, the COO, a vice president of sales, an operations manager, a district manager, and multiple sales representatives. Trial against the four remaining defendants is set for June 29, 2020:
- James A. Mays, III, 44 of Winfield, Alabama, a pharmacist, charged in 20 counts;
- Jessica Linton, 37 of Clearwater, Florida, the manager of the billing team at Global, charged in 24 counts;
- Lisa Holmes, 41 of Troy, Alabama, a district manager supervising sales representatives at Global, charged in 12 counts; and
- John Gladden, 50, of Tallahassee, Florida, a district manager supervising sales representatives at Global, charged in nine counts.
“Our Office and partner agencies intend to investigate and prosecute all those who treat our health insurance plans as their personal piggy banks,” lead prosecutor Chinelo Diké-Minor said. “It may take time, but we intend to see that justice is done.”
“These defendants committed a reprehensible federal crime when they chose to steal funds designated to care for the sick,” United States Attorney Jay Town said. “Especially in this day and time where our health care system has the potential to be overwhelmed, we can ill afford to allow the wellness of many to be sacrificed by the greed of a few. I want to thank our partner agencies for their continued efforts to put a stop to health care fraud. We will continue to stand with them to not only uncover these frauds...but see them prosecuted in a federal courtroom.”
“It is sad to think that there are those who are so greedy they would steal from the sick,” FBI Special Agent in Charge Sharp said. “Today, Adam's has admitted to his greed and now, he along with his partners in crime, will be held accountable.”
“It’s more important than ever that we thoroughly investigate and bring to justice those who seek Federal health care programs as a way to line their own pockets,” said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General in Atlanta. “Together with our law enforcement partners we will continue to flush out the health care fraud.”
"I trust this sentence sends a message to those who would exploit government programs intended to help current and former military members and their families," DCIS Special Agent in Charge Cynthia Bruce said. "The DCIS, with our law enforcement partnerships, will dedicate all the time that is needed and resources available to bring these offenders to justice."
“In addition to undermining public health and safety, health care fraud cheats Americans out of more than eighty billion dollars a year in higher premiums and increased out-of-pocket expenses,” said Adrian Gonzalez, Postal Inspector in Charge, Houston Division. “The United States Postal Inspection Service is committed to investigations with our law enforcement partners whenever health care fraudsters try to involve the U.S. Mail in their nefarious schemes, as in this case against John Jeremy Adams, who was doing business as Global Compounding Pharmacy.”
According to the plea agreement, Mr. Adams participated in a scheme to cause the pharmacy he co-owned to bill for medically unnecessary prescription drugs. He paid prescribers to issue prescriptions and directed employees to get medically unnecessary drugs for themselves, family members, and friends, to alter prescriptions to add non-prescribed drugs, to automatically refill prescriptions regardless of patient need, to routinely waive and discount co-pays to induce patients to obtain and retain medically unnecessary drugs, and to bill for drugs without patients’ knowledge. According to the plea agreement, when prescription drug administrators attempted to police this conduct, the defendants evaded and obstructed those efforts, including by providing false information in response to audits and diverting their billing through affiliated pharmacies. The scheme targeted multiple health insurance plans, including the pharmacy’s Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama plan, as well as plans providing health insurance to the elderly, disabled, members of the military, and veterans—Medicare, TRICARE, and CHAMPVA, among others.
According to the plea agreement, Mr. Adams as directed the scheme and also joked about it. It describes a text exchange between him and another defendant in which they discuss altering prescriptions. She tells him she will be getting him white out as a birthday gift, and he responds “Yep. Made us money.”
The maximum punishment for the 18 U.S.C. § 1349 health care and mail fraud conspiracy charge is 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for health care fraud is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for the 18 U.S.C. § 371 kickback conspiracy charge is 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for the 18 U.S.C. § 1957 spending statute charge is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The FBI, HHS-OIG, DCIS, USPIS, IRS-CI, investigated the cases, which Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chinelo Dike-Minor, Don Long, and Edward Canter are prosecuting. The Veteran Affairs Office of Inspector General Criminal Investigations Division provided assistance in the investigation.
EDVA Honors Fallen Law Enforcement Heroes During Police WeekRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney G. Zachary Terwilliger and the Eastern District of Virginia will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local law enforcement.
“During Police Week, our nation appropriately pauses to celebrate the service and bravery of police officers from around the country who selflessly gave their last full measure of devotion,” said Terwilliger. “We will forever be in their debt for keeping our communities safe and allowing us the luxury of pursuing those ideals set forth by our founding fathers of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Led by Attorney General Barr, the Department is committed to supporting our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers and their families. EDVA has their back, and they most certainly have our deepest thanks. Respect. Honor. Remember.”
National Police Week events began yesterday and will continue through Saturday.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
In addition to honoring and recognizing our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners on Terwilliger's Twitter account and on EDVA’s Twitter account, EDVA leadership across the District will celebrate our law enforcement partners in various ways, including visiting local law enforcement divisions in Alexandria, Newport News, Norfolk, and Richmond to deliver breakfast and lunch to police departments.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including two officers here in the Eastern District of Virginia.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Ashland Man Sentenced to 57 Months for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. - An Ashland man, Danny P. Chaffin Jr., 38, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison on Monday, before U.S. District Court Judge David L. Bunning, after previously pleading guilty to bank robbery.
According to Chaffin’s plea agreement, he admitted that on April 5, 2019, he robbed the Bluegrass Community Federal Credit Union in Ashland. Chaffin admitted to wearing a black mask and running into the Credit Union and demanding the teller to “Give me all the money now!” The teller complied, and Chaffin was able to take $12,506. Chaffin was arrested the following day in possession of $10,256 of the bank’s money.
Chaffin pleaded guilty in January 2020.
Under federal law, Chaffin must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years, following his release.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Chief Todd Kelley, Ashland Police Department; jointly announced the sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Ashland Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Moynahan.
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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Sunday 10 May 2020
Wisconsin’s Two U.s. Attorneys Acknowledge Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorneys Matthew D. Krueger (Eastern District of Wisconsin) and Scott C. Blader (Western District of Wisconsin) recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
"Our country’s safety and prosperity depend on the rule of law, which requires law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Krueger. “The men and women who serve as police officers deserve our deepest thanks, especially now as they report to work daily at greater risk to themselves. Our police officers epitomize the highest value of sacrifice for the good of others. We especially remember Officer Rittner and Officer Hetland who made the ultimate sacrifice last year.”
“I am inspired every day by the unwavering commitment of America’s law enforcement officers to protect us as they face challenges and threats such as violence, terrorism, and now a pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “They are dedicated to making our communities safer and our country more secure, and the heroes who have given their lives in service to us will not be forgotten.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including Milwaukee Police Officer Matthew Rittner on February 16 and Racine Police Officer John Hetland on June 17.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
In addition, the Milwaukee Police Department lost Officer Kou Her, who was killed on June 18 when a driver ran a red light and struck Her’s vehicle as he was driving home after his shift. The other driver has been charged with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). To register to view this free online event, please www.LawMemorial.org/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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United States Attorney Weisman Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Aaron L. Weisman recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
United States Attorney Arron L. Weisman added, “Every day we as a community ask our police officers to put themselves in harm’s way to protect us. Given what we as a nation are going through today, they do so at even greater peril. Yet, without hesitation they stand tall on the front lines twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. We will never stop being grateful.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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United States Attorney Richard P. Donoghue Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
BROOKLYN, NY— In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Richard P. Donoghue salutes the service and sacrifice of federal, state and local law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” stated Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“During National Police Week, I join the staff of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York in extending our thanks and deepest appreciation to the members of law enforcement who perform extraordinary and selfless service by protecting our communities from every threat imaginable, including an invisible virus,” stated United States Attorney Donoghue. “We will never forget those brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice, and we remember, too, their families who have suffered the profound loss of a parent, child or sibling who chose a vocation to serve their fellow New Yorkers.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
- Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including New York City Police Department Detective Brian Simonsen in the Eastern District of New York. At least 41 members of the New York City Police Department, one member of the Sands Point Police Department and one volunteer with the Suffolk County Auxiliary Police have died from the Coronavirus.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The candlelight vigil can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
- Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including New York City Police Department Detective Brian Simonsen in the Eastern District of New York. At least 41 members of the New York City Police Department, one member of the Sands Point Police Department and one volunteer with the Suffolk County Auxiliary Police have died from the Coronavirus.
United States Attorney Michael Bailey Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Michael Bailey and the entire District of Arizona office recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. National Police Week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“While most of us are apt to run or hide from danger, the men and women in law enforcement run toward it. They accept the risk of death or injury as part of their calling – to serve as a barrier between members of the public and victimization,” said United States Attorney Michael Bailey. “We take this week to thank law enforcement officers, and their families, for their service and their sacrifice on our behalf.”In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including two officers here in the District of Arizona.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.U.S. Attorneys Acknowledge Police WeekRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorneys Matthew D. Krueger (Eastern District of Wisconsin) and Scott C. Blader (Western District of Wisconsin) recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“Our country’s safety and prosperity depend on the rule of law, which requires law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Krueger. “The men and women who serve as police officers deserve our deepest thanks, especially now as they report to work daily at greater risk to themselves. Our police officers epitomize the highest value of sacrifice for the good of others. We especially remember Officer Rittner and Officer Hetland who made the ultimate sacrifice last year.”
“I am inspired every day by the unwavering commitment of America’s law enforcement officers to protect us as they face challenges and threats such as violence, terrorism, and now a pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “They are dedicated to making our communities safer and our country more secure, and the heroes who have given their lives in service to us will not be forgotten.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including Milwaukee Police Officer Matthew Rittner on February 16 and Racine Police Officer John Hetland on June 17.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
In addition, the Milwaukee Police Department lost Officer Kou Her, who was killed on June 18 when a driver ran a red light and struck Her’s vehicle as he was driving home after his shift. The other driver has been charged with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be a live stream to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT).
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney Trent Shores Recognizes National Police Week and the Selfless Work Performed by Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla.— U.S. Attorney Trent Shores recognizes and is thankful for the work our law enforcement partners perform every day in communities throughout northeastern Oklahoma. During National Police Week—Sunday, May 10 through Saturday May 16, 2020—the contributions and selfless sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement will be honored.
Law enforcements’ dedication to Oklahoma’s communities continues, regardless of natural disasters or pandemics. Recently sheriffs, chiefs, troopers, agents, marshals and officers joined together with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Oklahoma to create a public service announcement, letting the public know: We have your back and our work continues.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
"I salute the unrelenting commitment of our police officers to serve and protect our communities. Every day, the courageous men and women of America’s police forces put their lives on the line so that others may enjoy their unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “The sacrifice of our law enforcement officers does not go unnoticed. Police officers answer the call whenever and wherever they are needed, including in times of a public health crisis. In 2019 alone, 89 officers were killed in the line of duty, and this year, 92 law enforcement officers have died from coronavirus nationwide. I acknowledge their sacrifice; I acknowledge their deeply felt losses, and I mourn with their families.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“We salute and honor those brave men and women of federal, state, county, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies that respect and enforce the rule of law and who put their lives on the line every day so that Americans can safely live in peace. Being a law enforcement officer is a tough job, and this week we pay tribute and recognize those we have lost while courageously acting in the line of duty.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney Recognizes National Police Week, Honors Maine Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Halsey B. Frank will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10, through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“We owe a profound debt of gratitude to the men and women of law enforcement,” U.S. Attorney Frank said. “Law enforcement officers are in the community protecting all of us, day or night, even in the midst of this global pandemic. Here in Maine, we had many examples of heroic and selfless acts by police officers in 2019, including Waterville officer Timothy Hinton, who despite being shot in both arms by an assailant during a traffic stop last December, continued to pursue the shooter. And we will never forget Detective Benjamin Campbell of the Maine State Police, who died tragically in April of last year while assisting a motorist. The employees of the U.S. Attorney’s Office are honored to work with our federal, state, local and tribal partners.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including Detective Campbell, who died on April 3, 2019, while assisting a stopped motorist on Interstate 95.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 p.m. (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney McAllister Recognizes Police Week in KansasRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“Here in Kansas, we lost an officer in the line of duty already this year,” McAllister said. “We will not forget Mike Mosher or any of the other law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives to keep us safe.” Officer Mosher of the Overland Park Police Department was shot and killed May 3 while responding to a hit-and run-incident.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019. Already this year, one Kansas officer died in the line of duty. Overland Park Police Office Officer Mosher was shot and killed May 3 while responding to a possible hit and run.
Comprehensive data tables and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks last year are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney for Utah Recognizes Law Enforcement Officers as National Police Week BeginsRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY – U.S. Attorney John W. Huber is recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement as National Law Enforcement Week begins. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“As we begin another week amidst the upheaval of the pandemic, may we pause to remember our law enforcement heroes,” Huber said today. “These men and women continue to risk their own personal safety on our behalf. They are selfless, brave and dedicated to preserving peace and ensuring justice.”
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“Utah police officers make our communities better places to live in ways both large and small. We observe daily examples of their commitment to the communities they serve, from metro Salt Lake City to the Navajo Nation in southern Utah. Police officers do extraordinary things, often making split-second decisions. They deserve our appreciation and thanks,” Huber said. “We also remember those officers who have given their lives in the line of duty in Utah. This week gives us a chance to pay tribute to the service of those who serve us.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). To register to view this free online event, please www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney Duncan Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky.— In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr., joins U.S. Attorney General William P. Barr in recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“When someone agrees to ‘protect and serve,’ they are making a significant commitment to the communities on behalf of themselves and their families,” said U.S. Attorney Duncan. “It can be very difficult work but they selflessly perform it, making themselves available to people in need and working tirelessly to enforce the law and protect us all. This week, please join us in paying tribute to our police officers, by thanking the brave men and women who carry a badge and dedicate themselves to protecting and serving, even when their job puts them in harm’s way every day.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including two officers here in the Eastern District of Kentucky.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). To register to view this free online event, please www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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U.S. Attorney Bill Powell salutes law enforcement during National Police WeekRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA — In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“It is often during a crisis that we see how much we depend upon those who serve the public. During National Police Week we take some time to recognize and honor those in blue who protect us every day, during a pandemic and every other crisis. Our office has the great privilege to work with law enforcement every day. While they will never get all the thanks they deserve, we reserve this week to remind everyone of their importance in our lives and our communities,” said Powell.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 PM (EDT). To register to view this free online event, please www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis Commends Law Enforcement Partners During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
BOISE – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“I am grateful for the professionalism, dedication and quiet courage our law enforcement partners continually demonstrate under demanding and often dangerous circumstances,” said U.S. Attorney Davis. “My office sees firsthand how brave men and women of law enforcement fulfill their sworn duty to uphold justice every day without question and without expectation of thanks. We want them to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation. This week, and every day, we have their backs and they have our thanks.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019. Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
In Idaho, there have been a total of 72 fallen officers since 1883. Each of these officers are remembered for their brave service to our state at the Idaho Peace Officers’ Memorial. For more information about the memorial and for a list of these honored Idaho heroes please visit idahopeaceofficersmemorial.com.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 6:00 pm (MDT). The online event can be viewed at www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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Op Ed: U.S. Attorney Erica MacDonald Warns of A Potential Heightened Risk of Child Exploitation Due to Increased Time Spent OnlineRead the Press Release
In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, schools across Minnesota have switched to distance learning for the time being. As a result, children of all ages have access to and are using electronic devices at an unprecedented rate. This dramatic increase in time our children spend online creates a target rich environment for child predators who use various online methods to sexually exploit our children.
The sexual exploitation and abuse of a child is a despicable crime affecting some of the most vulnerable members of our community. No child should ever have to suffer the pain of such vile acts. Regrettably, the ever growing use of technology has provided child predators with more tools and opportunities than ever to perpetrate their insidious crimes.
The online sexual exploitation of children is a massive problem. During March 2020, the onset of new distance learning methods driven by COVID-19, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received 2,027,520 reports of online child sexual exploitation, a 106 percent increase over March 2019. This is not just a national problem. It is a problem right here in Minnesota. In 2019, my office received a 43 percent increase in the number of online child exploitation case referrals over 2018. Thus far, our 2020 numbers remain equally and disturbingly high.
There is no specific profile for victims; rather, children across all demographics can be targeted. The only commonality is youth, as the average age of a victim is only fifteen years old.
This type of crime causes very real harm and has a lasting impact, especially on young victims. Images and videos do not easily disappear from the Internet and the long-term effects on victims and their families can be devastating.
There is also one commonality among predators: their willingness to target some of the most vulnerable members of our society to satisfy their prurient interests. Predators seek to take advantage of the trusting nature of young people and to prey on their youth and the vulnerability that comes with growing up. They set up fake profiles on social medial apps, gaming sites and other social networking tools. They scour social media to find children willing to befriend someone they do not know. They falsely represent themselves as someone else, such as a famous person, a new kid in town, a friend of a friend, another high school student and even modeling agents. They then cultivate an online relationship with their victims, building trust to solicit the sexually explicit images. This can happen quickly. In one case, it took only thirty minutes from the time the predator met the child on Facebook messenger to when the minor victim was producing sexually explicit images and videos for the perpetrator to exploit.
I write today to raise our collective awareness of this issue as we all adjust to the rhythms of life during COVID-19. This type of exploitation thrives in secret. The more we talk about it the more effective we are at combatting these heinous crimes.
With the fact that children are spending more time online comes the need for vigilance regarding our children’s online social interaction. The threat from online child predators is both real and unobtrusive but can be mitigated by teaching our children how to use the internet safely and responsibly and by monitoring their use as appropriate for their age.
Preventing children from becoming victims is an important priority for federal law enforcement officials in Minnesota. In my office, we have a team of prosecutors who are specially trained to investigate and prosecute online child exploitation cases and work with law enforcement not only solve these crimes but to provide education and training to prevent the crimes from occurring. FBI Special Agent in Charge Rainer Drohshagen and I penned a joint letter to the Minnesota Department of Education explaining the heightened risk of online exploitation due to kids’ increased online presence and emphasizing the need for vigilance.
I encourage parents, grandparents, siblings, teachers, and all caregivers to review the library of resources deployed by our partners at the FBI regarding child exploitation and other crimes related to COVID-19 at https://www.fbi.gov/coronavirus. Additional resources and data are available from NCMEC at www.missingkids.org.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota has engaged and continues to engage parents, teachers, community leaders and law enforcement on this issue to offer practical resources, tips and case examples, and we will continue to do so. Now more than ever, however, we need everyone to join us in the fight for our children’s safety. This is an issue that cannot be spoken about enough. The predators are relentless; therefore, we too must be relentless. Look for red flags, talk to your children, and know where to report.
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Attorney General William P. Barr Honors Nation’s Law Enforcement During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, Attorney General William P. Barr recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10, through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. National Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers nationwide were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2019.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019, released by the FBI on May 4, 2020.
The names of all fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 p.m. EDT. To view this free online event, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
Saturday 9 May 2020
Broome County Repeat Offender Sentenced to over 18 Years in Prison for Child Pornography CrimesRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – James W. O’Brien, age 64, of Binghamton, New York, was sentenced yesterday to 220 months in prison for transporting, receiving, and possessing child pornography, announced United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith; Thomas F. Relford, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and New York State Police Superintendent Keith Corlett.
In connection with his guilty plea on October 23, 2019, O’Brien admitted to uploading image files depicting child pornography on three separate occasions in June and July 2017. Search warrants executed on O’Brien’s electronic devices on May 31, 2018, revealed 650 images and 8 video files depicting the sexual exploitation of children. These files included eight nude images of a female victim, whose identity is known to law enforcement, which O’Brien received through a text exchange with the victim.
The defendant was previously convicted in 2008 in Chenango County (New York) Court of Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child less than 16 years of age, in violation of New York State Penal Law Section 263.16, and was sentenced to six (6) months in jail, to be followed by 10- year term of probation.
Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy also imposed a 15-year term of supervised release, which will start after O’Brien is released from prison, and ordered him to pay restitution in the amount of $3,000 per victim for each of the three identified minors depicted in the images and videos that O’Brien transported, received, and possessed. As a result of his conviction, O’Brien will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the New York State Police, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sahar L. Amandolare.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Friday 8 May 2020
Waterloo Felon Sentenced to More Than Seven Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Loaded .357 Magnum in a CarRead the Press Release
A Waterloo felon who was found with a gun in a car just four months after he was arrested for possessing a different gun in a car was sentenced today to more than seven years in federal prison.
Columbus Tre Lawrence, age 27, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 4, 2019 guilty plea to one count of possessing a firearm as a prohibited person.
At the guilty plea and sentencing hearings, Lawrence admitted that, on August 28, 2018, he possessed a loaded .357 magnum caliber pistol while a passenger in a car. Lawrence is a felon and has been prohibited from possessing any firearms or ammunition for many years.
At the time of his arrest in August 2018, Lawrence was on pretrial release in state court on pending firearms-related charges. In April 2018, Lawrence was found in a car with a handgun, arrested, and released pending trial. That handgun had an obliterated serial number. Lawrence later pled guilty in state court to possessing the firearm in April 2018, and then he was indicted in federal court for the possessing a firearm in August 2018.
Lawrence was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Lawrence was sentenced to 85 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Lawrence is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tim Vavricek and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Waterloo Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-2058.
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U.S. Attorney’s Letter to Norman City Mayor – Allow Places of Worship to OpenRead the Press Release
A unified message emanates today from the chief federal law enforcement officer in the Western District of Oklahoma and the chief law officer of the State of Oklahoma. Places of worship in Norman, if they so choose, should be allowed to meet this Mother’s Day Sunday.
On April 27, 2020, United States Attorney General William P. Barr issued a memorandum directing United States Attorneys to monitor state and local directives that could violate the constitutional rights and the civil liberties of citizens, including discrimination against religious institutions and those with religious beliefs. To this end, U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing today sent a letter to convey the concern of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) with a proclamation issued by the Mayor of Norman. In that letter, U.S. Attorney Downing urged the Mayor to consider amending the proclamation to include the opening of places of worship. Indeed, places of worship should be trusted to honor social distancing and sanitation guidelines to the same extent as secular institutions.
Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter has also expressed his concerns on behalf of the State.
Attached hereto is a copy of U.S. Attorney Downing’s
Letter to Norman Mayor .U.S. Attorney Seeks Reporting of Discrimination and Sexual Harassment in Housing Resulting from COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams is asking anyone who has witnessed or experienced discrimination or sexual harassment by a landlord, property manager, maintenance worker, or anyone with control over housing to report this conduct.
The COVID-19 pandemic and public health emergency has impacted many Americans’ ability to pay their rent and has increased housing insecurity. It is violation of the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) for housing providers to exploit this crisis by sexually harassing tenants in exchange for rent or other housing needs.
“Nobody should feel unsafe in their own apartment or home—particularly in the midst of a global pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “Our office stands ready to investigate allegations of sexual harassment by anyone in control of housing and, where appropriate, we will pursue enforcement action. We will work closely with our enforcement partners to investigate any federal violations of Oregonians’ civil rights. The first step is reporting of such discrimination.”
The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division in coordination with U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country. The initiative’s goal is to address sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing.
Last fall the U.S. Attorney’s Office hosted two roundtables to bring awareness to this type of predatory discrimination. Now, during the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Attorney Williams asks for the community to be even more vigilant given the increased vulnerability of individuals.
The Department of Justice has filed lawsuits across the country where a pattern or practice of sexual harassment in housing is alleged. Investigations frequently uncover sexual harassment that has been ongoing for years. Many individuals do not know that being sexually harassed by a housing provider can violate federal law or that the Department of Justice may be able to help.
Discrimination based on race, sex, religion, national origin, disability, and other protected classes is unlawful under several federal laws, including FHA, and may result in criminal or civil liability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by FHA. Further, violent acts of hate based upon these and other protected classes violate federal hate crimes statutes. Discrimination can arise in many different contexts in addition to housing, including education, employment, health and safety, and places of public accommodation.
“It is important that we all work together to address unlawful discrimination, including violent acts or threats based upon protected classes,” U.S. Attorney Williams emphasized. “As in all emergencies, the COVID-19 outbreak has affected people of many different races, religions, and ethnicities, as well as those with disabilities. Laws prohibiting unlawful discriminatory behavior must and will be vigorously enforced.”
If you believe you are a victim of discrimination based on race, sex, religion, national origin, disability, or other protected classes, you can find information about how to file a complaint at https://www.justice.gov/crt/how-file-complaint and https://www.justice.gov/crt/fcs. Anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, can also email [email protected]. The U.S. Attorney’s Office Civil Rights Coordinator can be reached by calling (503) 727-1000.
U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces $33,541 Award to Address COVID-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that Shelbyville Police department received $33,541 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“As this country continues to fight COVID-19, our office remains committed to deterring, investigating, and prosecuting those who seek to take advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will help many of the communities struggling in these trying times and provide some much-needed relief to our district,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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Two Waterloo Men Who Possessed Guns Near an Area Where Shots Were Fired Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Two Waterloo men who were located near handguns in an area where shots were fired were sentenced on May 7, 2020, to federal prison.
Chaston Fox, age 27, and Jayontae Gates, age 19, both from Waterloo, Iowa, received prison terms after pleading guilty on January 15, 2020. Chaston Fox pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and received a sentence of
47 months in prison. Jayontae Gates pled guilty to being a drug user in possession of firearm and ammunition and received a sentence of 18 months in prison.
In plea agreements, both Fox and Gates admitted they were found in an area where gunfire had been heard. Fox was located walking near a bag containing marijuana, a digital scale and baggies, and a Ruger .22 caliber revolver. Fox was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of a prior felony conviction for theft in the first degree. Gates was located in the area of the gunfire entering a nearby apartment. Inside the apartment, law enforcement recovered a Ruger .22 caliber pistol. Gates had live .22 caliber ammunition in his pockets. Gates was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he was a user of illegal drugs.
Fox and Gates were sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Fox was sentenced to 47 months’ imprisonment. He must serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. Gates was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Liz Dupuich and a Federal Task Force composed of the Waterloo Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms assisted by the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office and Cedar Falls Police Department.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-2077-CJW.
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Three Illegal Aliens admit to reentry chargesRead the Press Release
ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA – Two Mexican citizens and a Guatemalan citizen have admitted to reentry charges, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Pedro Celestino Lunez-Gomez, citizen of Mexico, age 38, Jose Luis Lunez-Gomez, a citizen of Mexico, age 25, and Fredy Evaristo Cortez-Cahuec, a citizen of Guatemala, age 30, each pled guilty to one count of “reentry of a Removed Alien.” The four were found in January 2020 in Lewis County.
Each man was sentenced to time served today.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen D. Warner prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security Immigrations and Customs Enforcement investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Ten Defendants Indicted in Federal Investigation That Dismantled Mexico-To-Chicago Cocaine PipelineRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — Ten individuals are facing criminal charges as part of a federal investigation that disrupted a Mexico-to-Chicago cocaine pipeline.
During the investigation, law enforcement seized approximately 18 kilograms of cocaine and more than $300,000 in suspected illicit drug proceeds. The alleged drug trafficking occurred in the South Loop and Streeterville neighborhoods of Chicago, as well as suburban locations.
The indictments were returned Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Chicago. Two of the defendants remain at large, and warrants have been issued for their arrests. Arraignments for the other eight defendants have not yet been scheduled.
The charges were announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; and Robert J. Bell, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Substantial assistance was provided by the Milwaukee, Wisc., Field Division of the DEA, Calumet City Police Department, Chicago Police Department, Evergreen Park Police Department, Gurnee Police Department, Oak Park Police Department, Palos Heights Police Department, Peoria Police Department, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys A.J. Dixon and Ashley A. Chung represent the government.
According to the indictments and criminal complaints previously filed in the case, ANDRES VILLEGAS, 30, of Berwyn, worked with suppliers in Mexico to transport cocaine into the United States. Villegas conspired with a network of traffickers to distribute the drugs in the Chicago area, the charges allege.
The charges describe several drug transactions last year in Chicago and the suburbs. One of the deals occurred in a high-rise parking garage in the Streeterville neighborhood on Chicago’s Near North Side, while another occurred in a parking garage in the South Loop neighborhood on the city’s Near South Side, according to the charges. Other transactions cited in the charges occurred in Plainfield and Bolingbrook.
Charged in four separate indictments with drug conspiracy are Villegas; GUSTAVO AVILA, 23, of Plainfield; AARON ADAMS, 41, of Peoria; ADRIAN CURTIS, 42, of Peoria; DAVID PALM, 50, of Chicago; ALVIN BROWN, 51, of Chicago; SANTIAGO MERAZ, 35, of Milwaukee, Wisc.; JORGE VALDEZ, 33, of Milwaukee, Wisc.; ISIDRO MOYA, 59, of Chicago; and EDUARDO CARRIZALES, 45, of Laredo, Texas.
Moya and Meraz are currently at large.
The public is reminded that indictments contain only charges and are not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the Court must impose reasonable sentences under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Ten 'Most Wanted' Fugitives At-Large in Middle GeorgiaRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – The U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia is urging citizens to report the whereabouts of ten wanted fugitives to authorities.
In March, Macon Regional Crimestoppers, a community-run organization dedicated to increasing the safety of citizens, publicized a list of the top 15 Most Wanted fugitives in the Macon regional area. To date, five of 15 wanted persons have been captured, all as a direct result of citizen tips leading to their capture. The remaining fugitives at-large are wanted for violent crimes in Baldwin, Bibb, Crawford, Houston, Monroe and Peach counties, including aggravated assault, armed robbery and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. To view the list of wanted persons, please visit www.crimestop.us. Citizens can safely and anonymously report tips at 1-877-68CRIME. Crimestoppers provides rewards up to $1,000 for tips leading to the arrest of wanted fugitives. All individuals charged with a crime are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of competent jurisdiction.
“We are asking citizens to safely report the whereabouts of these wanted fugitives to Crimestoppers or their local authorities,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney. “We are proud to support Macon Regional Crimestoppers and our law enforcement partners. Creating safer neighborhoods is a community-wide effort, and we are fortunate to live in a region where law enforcement and citizens work together to achieve this common goal law.”
“In the midst of a pandemic, Macon Regional Crimestoppers remains committed to removing criminals from our streets,” said Warren Selby, Jr., Macon Regional Crimestoppers Chairman. “Our partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and all our law enforcement partners, continues to be successful due to the engagement of our citizens. Please help us continue our success by Making the Call!”
In February 2019, the U.S. Attorney’s Office made a public commitment with Macon Regional Crimestoppers to release a quarterly list throughout 2019 of the Most Wanted violent offenders. 41 of the 45 Top 15 Most Wanted fugitives in 2019 were captured. Macon Regional Crimestoppers is a local non-profit serving Bibb, Baldwin, Houston, Jones, Twiggs, Crawford, Monroe, and Peach counties. The organization partners with law enforcement agencies and community groups to provide anonymous rewards for tips that lead to criminal arrests. To learn more about Macon Regional Crimestoppers, please visit www.crimestop.us.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office partnership with Macon Regional Crimestoppers is a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The partnership is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see https://www.justice.gov/archives/projectguardian.
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.
St. Louis City Man Sentenced for Striking a Guard at the Social Security AdministrationRead the Press Release
St. Louis, Missouri – After having served approximately 26 months in pretrial detention, Slaven Nedic, 28, of St. Louis, was sentenced to three years of probation. Nedic appeared today before U.S. District Judge John A. Ross.
According to court documents, on March 9, 2018, Nedic entered the lobby of the Crestwood office of the Social Security Administration and punched an armed guard in the face. He also attempted to obtain control of the guard’s firearm during the ensuing physical confrontation. An unarmed employee of the administrative agency heard the altercation, and came to the guard’s aid. The two were able to restrain Nedic until local law enforcement officials arrived. Nedic has been in custody since his arrest on March 9, 2018.
The case was handled by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracy Berry handled the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Santa Monica Man Admits Orchestrating Online Romance Scam that Conned Four Women into Investing in His Bogus CompaniesRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A Santa Monica man has agreed to plead guilty to a federal fraud charge for a romance scam in which he deceived women he met online and elsewhere into investing tens of thousands of dollars into his sham sound design and software companies, only to take the money and spend it on himself.
Antonio Mariot Wilson, a.k.a. “Dr. Tony Mariot” and “Brice Carrington,” 57, agreed to plead guilty to one count of wire fraud, according to a plea agreement filed today in United States District Court.
Between May 2015 and October 2018, Wilson met four women, including on Bumble and other dating apps, and convinced them to engage in romantic relationships with him before conning them into giving him hundreds of thousands of dollars for his purported businesses, according to his plea agreement. One of Wilson’s victims, whom he met at a gym where he worked as a manager, was actress Jenifer Lewis, whose credits include the television series, “Black-ish.”
To create a false impression of legitimacy and prestige, Wilson falsely claimed to be a Navy SEAL, an Oxford University graduate, and an Oxford professor teaching biblical antiquities at UCLA.
Relying on the intimacy he created in his victims through these false impressions, Wilson induced his victims to invest in one of his two companies: Ultimate FX, which he claimed was a sound design company, and 2nd Life, a purported software business designed to provide animated instruction on applying for government benefits.
Wilson conned the victims to invest in these companies by making false statements, such as claiming that the ABC television network and EA Sports video game developer had used Ultimate FX for their shows and games. Wilson also falsely claimed that investors – real people whose identities he used without authorization – had valued 2nd Life at more than $30 million and wanted to invest in the company. Wilson also falsely stated that 2nd Life had a present valuation of $3.2 million, court documents state.
But in reality, Wilson stole the victims’ money and used it to fund his own lifestyle and pay his own personal expenses, concealing the fact that he previously pleaded guilty to carrying out a very similar scheme to defraud Ultimate FX investors. Wilson served a four-year term in federal prison after pleading guilty in 2009 to wire fraud and tax evasion charges in the Northern District of California.
Wilson also admitted that he sold unregistered 2nd Life securities by distributing “shareholder agreements” and “stock purchase agreements” to the victims. After accepting his victims’ funds, Wilson used the money to pay off his credit card debt, pay his rent and buy luxury items.
Through this scheme, Wilson received a total of $387,000 from his victims.
Wilson will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison upon entering his guilty plea, which will occur at a hearing to be set in the coming weeks.
The FBI investigated this matter.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alexander C.K. Wyman of the Major Frauds Section.
San Francisco Resident Arrested for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – Chad Andrew Carter was arrested for possessing child pornography, announced United States Attorney David L. Anderson and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Tatum King.
According to a criminal complaint filed on April 30, 2020, Carter, 44, of San Francisco, Calif., is alleged to have knowingly possessed child pornography. As detailed in the complaint, an individual using the handle “TopRod” was observed in a Zoom chat room displaying and streaming child pornography videos. Zoom is a video-conferencing and photo and video-sharing platform. The user “TopRod” was traced to an IP address and email account in defendant’s name. On January 4, 2018, HSI agents executed a search warrant on defendant’s residence and seized various electronic devices. In a review of those devices, agents identified approximately 3,077 image files and 469 video files containing child pornography, including images and videos of victims as young as three-to-five years old.
The complaint charges Carter with possession of child pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2251(a)(4)(B).
Carter’s detention hearing occurred on May 7, 2020, before the Honorable Susan van Keulen, U.S. Magistrate Judge. Carter was released with conditions, including monitoring of his computer and electronics use and prohibiting contact with minors. Carter’s next appearance is scheduled for May 27, 2020, at 10:30 a.m.
Criminal complaints merely allege that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted on the possession of child pornography charge, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, five years to a life term supervised release, a fine of $250,000, a special assessment of $5,000, criminal forfeiture, and restitution. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court only after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Ward is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Margoth Turcios and Llessica Chan Fierro. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by HSI.
Salt Lake City Man Charged with Armed Robberies of Convenience Stores in Three CitiesRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY – A federal complaint filed Wednesday charges Hector Fernando De La Rosa, age 22, of Salt Lake City with brandishing a firearm during three convenience store robberies in Murray, Salt Lake City, South Salt Lake City in late January.
The complaint alleges De La Rosa brandished a firearm during a Jan. 21, 2020, robbery of a Maverik convenience store at 4800 South 530 West in Murray, a Jan. 22 robbery of a 7-Eleven at 1157 West California Avenue in Salt Lake City, and a Jan. 28, 2020, robbery of a 7-Eleven at 2700 South 420 East in South Salt Lake City.
De La Rosa is charged with three counts of robbery and three counts of brandishing a firearm during each of the robberies. He is also charged with possession of a firearm and ammunition following a felony conviction.
According to the complaint, two individuals went into the Maverik in Murray and the 7- Eleven in Salt Lake City. One of the suspects, wearing a gray Puma hoodie, has been identified as De La Rosa. The second individual has not been identified. Cigarettes were taken from the Maverik and a firearm was brandished to get the cashier to open cash registers. The complaint alleges the suspects told the cashier he would be shot if he did not open the cash register. The defendants stole $246 from the store.
De La Rosa and the second suspect used similar tactics in the robbery the next day at 7- Eleven in Salt Lake City, the complaint alleges. As they approached the register, the cashier saw one suspect pull out a handgun and pull the slide back. The second suspect, De La Rosa, also pointed a handgun at the cashier. The cashier ran to a backroom and called the police. One suspect immediately fled the store. The suspect wearing the gray hoodie, De La Rosa, tried to grab the cash register before fleeing as well.
De La Rosa is charged with the Jan. 28 robbery at the 7-11 in South Salt Lake City. Cigarettes and cash were stolen from the store along with the cashier’s cell phone.
Using store surveillance video, law enforcement officers were able to identify a white 1992 Toyota Camry and determined it had been stolen in West Valley City. A day later, West Valley City police officers were involved in a vehicle pursuit involving a different stolen car, the complaint alleges. The driver crashed into several parked cars. Officers ultimately spiked the tires, but the driver kept driving. He later left the car and fled from police officers. He was ultimately tackled and arrested.
The suspect was identified as Hector De La Rosa. He was wearing the same clothing worn in the South Salt Lake City robbery. A black revolver was also located in the stolen vehicle De La Rosa had been driving just prior to his arrest.
The potential maximum penalty for each of the three robberies is 20 years in federal prison. The potential penalty for possession of a firearm following a felony conviction is 10 years in prison. Each count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence has a potential life sentence with a seven-year minimum mandatory sentence. Penalties imposed for each brandishing count run consecutive to any sentence imposed for the robberies.
De La Rosa is currently in state custody. An initial appearance will be set for him.
Complaints are not findings of guilt. Individuals charged in a complaint are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty in court.
FBI special agents and Salt Lake City police officers are investigating the case with assistance with the West Valley City Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case.