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18 June 2020
Nine Additional Defendants Arrested as Part of A Long-Standing Drug Trafficking Ring; Over A Kilogram of Deadly Fentanyl, an Illegal FIrearm, and over $200,000 Cash SeizedRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy Jr. announced today that nine defendants were arrested and charged in a criminal complaint for their roles in a large and long standing illegal narcotics ring operating in Western New York. Charged with conspiring to possess with intent to distribute, and distributing, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, one kilogram or more of heroin, and five kilograms or more of cocaine are:
• Jose Roman Jr.; • Peter Pacheco; • Xavier Gonzalez; • Nathaniel Claudio; • Isiah Claudio; • Phillip Coleman; • Angel Ortiz, a/k/a "Peewee;"
• Hector Rivera-Torres; and
• Luis Ortiz, a/k/a Luis Ortiz-Rivera.Assistant U.S. Attorney Everardo Rodriguez, who is handling the case, stated that according to the filed complaint, since 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Rochester Police Department, the Greece Police Department, New York State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives began investigating the illegal narcotics trafficking activities of the defendants who are responsible for the distribution of large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine in Rochester.
On June 18, 2020, investigators executed search warrants at 12 residences in Rochester, and on one car associated with the defendants. During the execution of those search warrants, they seized over one kilogram of fentanyl, approximately $200,000 in cash, a firearm, scales, and materials used to process and package illegal narcotics for resale.
“For the second time since the pandemic began, hundreds of law enforcement officers risked their own well-being and set out early this morning to take down nine more defendants whose sole goal is to profit from the sale of deadly narcotics in the Rochester area,” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “As a result of the brave investigative efforts of our law enforcement partners, the illegal activities of a total of 26 dangerous drug peddling defendants have come to an end in our community.”
DEA Special Agent-in-Charge Ray Donovan stated, “A local investigation turned into one of the largest drug takedown in Rochester history. This criminal network was a major threat to the quality of life in Rochester by trafficking millions of dollars-worth of fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin into Rochester and surrounding areas. Twenty-eight members of the organization have been charged as a result of a collaborative law enforcement effort focused on saving lives by decreasing drug use, overdoses, and drug-related violence.”
On April 30, 2020, investigators executed search warrants at 24 residences in Rochester, West Henrietta, Penfield, Greece, Irondequoit, and Syracuse, and on 12 cars associated with defendants who were previously arrested. During the execution of those search warrants, they seized eight firearms; approximately 3.5 kilograms of fentanyl; and approximately two kilograms of cocaine and crack cocaine. In addition, investigators seized $928,400 in cash and over $500,000 worth of jewelry.
The nine defendants arrested and charged today brings the total number of defendants arrested in a larger investigation to 28. Eight of the defendants made initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen. A ninth defendant was arrested in Puerto Rico and will appear before a magistrate judge there.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Rochester Resident Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ray Donovan, New York Field Division; the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief La’Ron Singletary; the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eric Laughton; the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Patrick Phelan; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito; the U.S. Marshal Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina; the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter; the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Kevin Henderson; and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, under the direction of Acting Commissioner Anthony J. Annucci. Additional assistance was provided by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Buffalo and Syracuse Resident Offices.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Nigerian Businessman Pleads Guilty to $11 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Nigerian entrepreneur who operated a group of companies known as the Invictus Group pleaded guilty today to a computer based intrusion fraud scheme that caused $11 million in losses to his victims.
According to court documents, Obinwanne Okeke, 32, and other conspirators engaged in a conspiracy from approximately 2015 to 2019 to conduct various computer based frauds. The conspirators obtained and compiled the credentials of hundreds of victims, including victims in the Eastern District of Virginia and elsewhere. As part of the scheme, Okeke and others engaged in an email compromise scheme targeting Unatrac Holding Limited, the export sales office for Caterpillar heavy industrial and farm equipment. In April 2018, a Unatrac executive fell prey to a phishing email that allowed conspirators to capture login credentials. The conspirators sent fraudulent wire transfer requests and attached fake invoices. Okeke participated in the effort to victimize Unatrac through fraudulent wire transfers totaling nearly $11 million, which funds were transferred overseas.
Okeke pleaded guilty to a conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Okeke faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison when sentenced on October 22. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Martin Culbreth, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert J. Krask accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Samuels and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Mattis are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:19-cr-084
Niagara Falls Woman Sentenced for Her Role in Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Katherine Dejesus-Gonzalez, 36, of Niagara Falls, NY, who was convicted of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who handled the case, stated that between October 2017 and July 19, 2018, the defendant conspired with Edgar Joel Jimenez-Rodriguez, Jose Garcia-Santiago, and others to sell cocaine. On May 26, 2018, the New York State Police conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle being driven by co-conspirator Jose Garcia-Santiago. Dejesus-Gonzalez was a passenger. Troopers seized five kilograms of cocaine from the vehicle.
In addition, investigators intercepted conversations involving the defendant facilitating drug trafficking activities with her co-conspirators. In September 2017, the U.S. Postal Service intercepted packages arriving from Puerto Rico which were addressed to various residences in Niagara Falls. Postal inspectors seized approximately five kilograms of cocaine that were intended for the defendant and her co-conspirators. One of the packages was addressed directly to the defendant’s home address. Another was addressed to the home of Garcia-Santiago.
Edgar Joel Jimenez-Rodriguez and Jose Garcia-Santiago were previously convicted.The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ray Donovan, New York Field Division; the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent Thomas Licata; and the New York State Police Community Narcotics Enforcement Team (CNET), under the direction of Lieutenant Kevin Reyes and Major Mary Clark.
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New Haven Man Sentenced for Possessing Firearms in StamfordRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JOEL CRUZ-BERRIOS, also known as “Krack,” 23, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to approximately 15 months of imprisonment, time already served, and three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing firearms.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in January 2019, Cruz-Berrios arranged to trade firearms with an individual in Stamford. On January 22, 2019, Stamford Police officers arrested Cruz-Berrios, Nyejire Redmond and Victor Berrios-Sanchez after they traveled from New Haven to a parking garage in Stamford. At the time the arrests, Berrios-Sanchez possessed a loaded .22 caliber revolver, a .25 caliber semi-automatic handgun and three .25 caliber rounds of ammunition, and Redmond possessed a loaded .45 caliber automatic handgun that had been reported stolen in New Britain in December 2018. Redmond was sitting in the backseat of the vehicle next to a sleeping, unrestrained child who was approximately two years old.
Cruz-Berrios has three prior convictions, and he was on probation from a prior felony conviction when he was arrested in this case.
Cruz-Berrios has been detained in state custody since March 13, 2019. On November 4, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of firearm by a convicted felon.
Redmond previously pleaded guilty to possessing a stolen firearm and, on April 16, 2020, was sentenced to approximately 15 months of imprisonment, time served. Berrios-Sanchez, of New Haven, pleaded guilty in state court to firearm offenses and was sentenced to 31 months of incarceration.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Stamford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria del Pilar Gonzalez.
This prosecution has been brought through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Murray County man pleads guilty to producing child pornographyRead the Press Release
ROME, Ga. - Daniel Strickland has pleaded guilty to producing child pornography of two minors in his care. A federal grand jury had indicted Strickland in November 2019.
“Strickland produced child pornography of children under his supervision,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “By bringing this perpetrator to justice, we hope this will be at least a small step toward the victims living a normal life.”
“Much of our success in bringing defendants like this to justice is because of our partnerships with local and state law enforcement agencies like the Murray County Sheriff Office,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. ‘We will never relax our combined resources when it comes to protecting a vulnerable and defenseless child.”
“It is of the utmost importance of the Murray County Sheriff’s Office to provide safety and security to each and every one of our citizens, especially our children,” said Murray County Sheriff Gary Langford.
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges, and other information presented in court: The Murray County, Georgia, Sheriff's Office and the FBI learned in February 2019, that Strickland had allegedly abused a minor girl who was under his care. A subsequent investigation revealed that Strickland took sexually explicit photos of this minor girl, and another minor girl, that he previously babysat. In July 2019, Strickland pleaded guilty to two counts of child molestation arising from these incidents in Murray County Superior Court.
Daniel Strickland, 46, of Chatsworth, Georgia, pleaded guilty to two counts of producing child pornography before U.S. District Court Judge Steven D. Grimberg. Under the terms of Strickland’s plea agreement, the government and Strickland are recommending that the Court impose a sentence of between 20 and 25 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for September 16, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.
Anyone with information, or who may have been a victim in this case, please contact the Murray County Sheriff’s Office 706-695-4592 or the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 770-216-3000.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Murray County Sheriff’s Office are investigating this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alex R. Sistla and Nicholas Hartigan are prosecuting the case.
This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In February 2006, the Attorney General launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices around the country, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Murderer of Virginia State Police Special Agent Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Weems man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for his illegal possession of a firearm that was used to kill Virginia State Police Special Agent Michael Walter in May 2017.
“As a front line law enforcement officer protecting the citizens of Virginia, Special Agent Walter risked his life to protect the people of Richmond,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “From his time as a United States Marine who participated in Operation Desert Storm, to his many years as a veteran Virginia State Police Special Agent, and as the founder of the non-profit youth Blackhawk wrestling program, Special Agent Walter’s life was one of service. As a loving husband and father to his three children, Special Agent Walter was loved, adored, and idolized by his friends, family, and by all that knew him. Due to Travis Ball’s selfish and brutal crime, the Walter family, the Virginia State Police, and the Commonwealth of Virginia will never be the same. At a time of unprecedented and appropriate focus on interactions between individuals and law enforcement, we must not lose sight of the ultimate sacrifice given by the good and honorable law enforcement officers, and their surviving loved ones, who protect and serve for the rest of us.”
According to court documents, on May 26, 2017, Travis Ball, 30, shot and killed Special Agent Walter during a traffic stop in the Mosby Court public housing community in Richmond. At the time of the murder, Ball possessed a FIE, model Titan, .25 caliber, semi-automatic pistol. Believing that he was wanted in Lancaster County for a probation violation, Ball resisted arrested and shot Special Agent Walter once in the head. Text messages found on Ball’s cellphone later revealed that two days prior to the murder he told his girlfriend he was not going back to jail and would “end up killing something.” On May 27, 2017, Special Agent Walter died from the gunshot wound inflicted by Ball.
The sentence imposed in this case will run consecutive to the 36 year sentence for capital murder that Ball received in the City of Richmond Circuit Court related to the murder of Special Agent Walter.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erik S. Siebert and Stephen E. Anthony prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:19-cr-128.
Modesto Methamphetamine Dealers Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Being an Illegal Alien in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned an indictment today against Raymond Rodriguez, 72, and Rigoberto Guerra-Salcedo, 54, charging them with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possessing a firearm while being an alien unlawfully in the United States, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, Rodriguez sold kilogram quantities of methamphetamine to a confidential informant working for law enforcement in 2019 and 2020. A covert investigation determined that Guerra-Salcedo was supplying methamphetamine to Rodriguez. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement officers followed Guerra-Salcedo as he delivered wholesale amounts of methamphetamine to Rodriguez.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Team (TRIDENT), the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Lee is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Rodriguez and Guerra-Salcedo face a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Minnesota Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Iowa Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine was sentenced June 17, 2020, to more than 2 years in federal prison.
Emmanuel Fuentes, 35, from Madelia, Minnesota, received the prison term after a December 30, 2019, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Evidence at the plea and sentencing hearings showed that from July 2019 through August 2019, Fuentes was involved in the distribution of more than 150 grams of pure methamphetamine. In two separate investigative operations, in July and August 2019, law enforcement seized more than ten ounces of methamphetamine from Fuentes.
Fuentes was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Fuentes was sentenced to 31 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Fuentes is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and investigated by the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-4053. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Michigan Man Sentenced to Prison for Selling MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Pontiac, Michigan man was sentenced to 46 months in prison and three years of supervised release for selling methamphetamine, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Milik Robinson, 23, previously admitted that on August 19, 2019 he sold an ounce of methamphetamine to a confidential informant behind a residence located at 915 Washington Avenue in Huntington.
“It’s a constant theme - out of state drug dealer in West Virginia selling drugs to our good people, causing havoc and pain, and, too often, worse,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “There is another constant theme - out of state drug dealer arrested in the Southern District of West Virginia and headed to federal prison.”
The Cabell County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor handled the prosecution.
Follow us on Twitter: SDWVNews and USAttyStuart
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Michigan Man Arrested for 2014 Hack of UPMC HR Databases and Theft of Employees’ Personal InformationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – The man who allegedly hacked the human resource databases of University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and stole PII of over 65,000 UPMC employees was arrested Tuesday morning in Detroit, Michigan, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. Justin Sean Johnson was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of conspiracy, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft associated with the 2014 hack of UPMC. Johnson is alleged to have then sold employees’ Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and W-2 information on the dark web, resulting in the filing of thousands of false IRS tax returns.
The 43-count indictment, returned on May 20 and unsealed today, named Justin Sean Johnson, a/k/a "TDS", a/k/a "DS", 29, originally from Michigan. Johnson made an initial appearance yesterday in Federal Court in the Eastern District of Michigan. The government intends to seek the detention of the defendant pending trial.
"Justin Johnson stands accused of stealing the names, Social Security numbers, addresses and salary information of every employee of Pennsylvania’s largest health care system," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "After his hack, Johnson then sold UPMC employees’ PII to buyers around the world on dark web marketplaces, who in turn engaged in massive campaign of further scams and theft. His theft left over 65,000 victims vulnerable to years of potential financial fraud. Hackers like Johnson should know that our office will pursue you relentlessly until you are in custody and held accountable for your crimes."
"Investigating identity theft and refund fraud cases is a priority for our office," said Tom Fattorusso, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation. "Unfortunately, through no fault of their own, the people whose identities are stolen in cases like this are often victimized repeatedly. Initially, they have to deal with the stress of knowing their personal information was stolen. Criminals then use the stolen information to file false tax returns, or they sell it to other criminals who use it to file false returns. This causes a hardship for the innocent victims when they try to file their own tax returns. Victims are then left to deal with credit issues caused by the unscrupulous actions of the criminals."
"This case is another example of the commitment of the U.S. Secret Service, IRS-Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and our other law enforcement partners to investigate and bring to justice individuals who commit complex cyber fraud", said Timothy Burke, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Secret Service, Pittsburgh Field Office. "The healthcare sector has become an attractive target of cyber criminals looking to update personal information for use in fraud; the Secret Service is committed to detecting and arresting those that engage in crimes against our Nation’s critical systems for their own profit."
"This investigation was an excellent example of a partnership between law enforcement agencies, working together to bring down a nationwide fraud conspiracy. I fully commend the hard work and countless hours put forth by all of the law enforcement agencies involved, which resulted in bringing this individual and the other co-defendants in this case to justice," stated James Giehl, Acting Inspector in Charge.
According to the Indictment, Johnson, using a dark web moniker identified by an acronym in the Indictment as "TDS" or "DS" in 2014 infiltrated and "hacked" into the human resource server databases at UPMC in January 2014, and stole sensitive PII and W-2 information belonging to tens of thousands of UPMC employees. The information was sold by Johnson on dark web forums for use by conspirators, who promptly filed hundreds of false form 1040 tax returns in 2014 using UPMC employee PII. These false 1040 filings claimed hundreds of thousands of dollars of false tax refunds, which they converted into Amazon.com gift cards, which were then used to purchase Amazon merchandise which was shipped to Venezuela.
Additionally, the indictment alleges that Johnson, since 2014 through 2017, as TDS or DS, regularly sold other PII to buyers on dark web forums, which could be used to commit identity theft and bank fraud.
The scheme resulted in approximately $1.7 million in false tax return refunds.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 for the conspiracy to defraud the United States; 20 years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 for each count of wire fraud, and a mandatory 24 months in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 for each count of aggravated identity theft. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Agents from the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty and is Sentenced for Felony Illegal Re-Entry after Previous DeportationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced today that NAZARIO CRUZ-MUNOZ, age 35, was sentenced on June 10, 2020 on a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) by U. S. District Judge Ivan Lemelle.
According to the indictment, NAZARIO CRUZ-MUNOZ (“CRUZ”), reentered the United States after he was previously deported on July 23, 2015. CRUZ faced a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment. CRUZ pled guilty as charged to the indictment and was sentenced on the same date to credit for time served. He has been detained since January 28, 2020. He will be turned over to federal immigration authorities for deportation back to Mexico.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Louisiana State Police and United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.
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Merrillville Woman Indicted for Mail FraudRead the Press Release
HAMMOND – Dina Al-Sbeihi, 36, of Merrillville, Indiana, was charged by way of an Indictment with three counts of mail fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Kirsch.
According to documents in the case, it is alleged that between July 2015 and August 2019, Al-Sbeihi engaged in a scheme to defraud consumers by selling counterfeit medical devices, namely counterfeit Juverderm and Restalyne. Juvederm and Restalyne are prescription dermal fillers that are injected into the skin and are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The Indictment alleges that Al-Sbeihi imported counterfeit Juvederm and Restalyne products from foreign manufacturers located in the People’s Republic of China and elsewhere. The counterfeit products were packaged and branded to look like authentic Juvederm and Restalyne products. These foreign-made dermal fillers had not been approved by the FDA and, as a result, the safety and efficacy of the products were unknown.
According to the Indictment, Al-Sbeihi sold these counterfeit products through her retail company The Beauty Pharmacy falsely representing them to be genuine. Al-Sbeihi used the U.S. Mails to ship the counterfeit products to her customers. It is alleged that Al-Sbeihi earned more than $260,000 from consumers by selling counterfeit Juverderm and Restalyne products to customers in the United States.
“The importing of counterfeit medical devices and selling them as legitimate creates a great concern for the public purchasing these counterfeit products,” said U.S. Attorney Kirsch. “Consumers have a right not to be misled in the manner alleged in this case. I want to thank the law enforcement agencies that investigated this case.”
“Distributing medical devices of unknown origin and components instead of FDA-approved devices places the U.S. public health at risk,” said Lynda M. Burdelik, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Chicago Field Office. “We will aggressively pursue and bring to justice those who attempt to subvert FDA requirements, which are designed to ensure the safety and quality of devices distributed to American consumers.”
The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the judge after a consideration of federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abizer Zanzi.
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Man charged with attempted sexual coercion of Columbia County minorRead the Press Release
AUGUSTA, GA: A Florida man has been arraigned in U.S. District Court on charges related to his alleged attempts to coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity.
Gordon T. Cooper, 46, of Clermont, Fla., appeared in a virtual hearing before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Brian K. Epps regarding his indictment on charges of Attempted Coercion and Enticement, and Transfer of Obscene Matter to a Minor, said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. The maximum penalty for the charges are up to life in prison and substantial fines and penalties, followed by a registration as a sex offender and a period of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Our law enforcement partners remain vigilant in monitoring cyber traffic for predators targeting vulnerable citizens, especially children,” said U.S. Attorney Christine. “Likewise, our office continues to be aggressive in prosecuting those found responsible for illegal online activities.”
According to court documents and testimony, the investigation began when the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was alerted by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about online traffic targeting a minor who resides in Columbia County. The messages were attempting to induce the minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and shared obscene material with the minor. GBI investigators monitoring the messages identified and arrested Cooper.
“This indictment illustrates the great work of law enforcement to investigate and prosecute crimes against children,” said Vic Reynolds, Director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. “The GBI is committed to working with our local, state, and federal partners to ensure that child sexual exploitation cases are aggressively pursued.”
Criminal indictments contain only charges; defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This investigation took place under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood (PSC). The case is being investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorney and PSC Coordinator Tara M. Lyons.
Man Convicted of Intent to Distribute Cocaine to Johnston County Sentenced to More Than 19 YearsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – A Miami, Florida man was sentenced to 235 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute five (5) kilograms or more of Cocaine and Possession with the Intent to Distribute of five (5) kilograms or more of Cocaine.
Julio Rodriguez-Diaz, 50, was named in an Indictment filed on February 19, 2020 charging him with Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute five (5) kilograms or more of Cocaine and Possession with the Intent to Distribute five (5) kilograms or more of Cocaine. On March 5, 2020, after a four-day trial, Rodriguez-Diaz was convicted on all charges.
According to the investigation, Rodriguez-Diaz, was a member of the Gulf Cartel Drug Trafficking Organization and conspired with a co-defendant, Eugenio Carlos-Alfonso, who pled guilty on the day of trial, to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute fifty (50) kilograms of cocaine from South Texas to Johnston County, North Carolina via tractor-trailer. The fifty (50) kilograms were hidden in the trailer of the tractor-trailer when stopped by deputies with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office for speeding. A law enforcement canine alerted on the trailer and as a result, two duffle bags containing the fifty (50) kilograms of cocaine were found and seized. Rodriguez-Diaz, a passenger, and the driver of the truck, Eugenio Carlos-Alfonso, were taken into custody, but claimed no knowledge of the drugs. Following their arrest, law enforcement learned that Rodriguez-Diaz and his co-defendant were couriers who worked for the Gulf Cartel. To date, this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation, entitled Relentless Pursuit, has resulted in the indictment of eight defendants and the seizure of over sixty-seven (67) kilograms of cocaine and approximately $2.2 million in United States Currency.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelly L. Sandling and Lucy Brown prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:19-cr-00111-D-4.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
MS-13 Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Role in Armed RobberyRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Maryland man pleaded guilty today to driving three men associated with MS-13 who had just committed an armed robbery away from the scene of the crime.
“MS-13 is a transnational gang of vicious thugs that primarily preys on people and businesses in our nation’s vibrant immigrant communities,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Members of those communities should feel confident, as demonstrated today in court, that members and associates of MS-13 that commit violent acts here will be held accountable.”
According to court documents, Willian Alexis Benavides Pena, 26, is a member of MS-13’s Pinos Locos Salvatruchos (“PLS”) clique. On the morning of Aug. 18, 2017, several PLS members and associates travelled from Maryland to Herndon at the direction of the clique’s then-leader in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Some of those individuals, wearing masks and brandishing firearms, proceeded to rob a store in the 1100 block of Elden Street of approximately $19,500. Those men then entered a neighboring restaurant and kept its patrons and staff on the floor for several minutes before fleeing through the rear exit. Benavides Pena, knowing that a robbery had been committed, drove three of the armed robbers away from the scene and back to Maryland.
“This guilty plea is an example of the FBI and Safe Streets Task Force's continued work and commitment to dismantling MS-13 and ending the gang's violence that affects our communities,” said James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office Criminal Division. “The violence perpetrated by MS-13 members and associates will not be tolerated, and we thank our law enforcement partners who work every day to bring violent criminals to justice.”
Benavides Pena pleaded guilty to acting as an accessory after the fact to a Hobbs Act robbery. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison when sentenced on September 22. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
“This case, which started at the local level with detectives from Herndon Police Department and Northern Virginia Regional Gang Task Force, exemplifies the tremendous investigative cooperation among local, state, and federal partners in combatting violent crime in our communities,” Maggie DeBoard, Chief of Herndon Police Department said. “Our community remains safer today due to the arrest and conviction of this dangerous individual.”
The case was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), Operation Blue Heat. The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
This matter was investigated by the FBI, Washington Field Office’s Northern Virginia Safe Streets/HIDTA Task Force which is composed of FBI agents working in partnership with local, state and federal agencies within Northern Virginia. The Herndon Police Department provided significant investigative assistance in this matter. The Northern Virginia Safe Streets/HIDTA Task Force is charged with investigating, disrupting and dismantling the most egregious and violent gangs and drug trafficking enterprises operating in Northern Virginia to include MS-13. Information regarding gang activity within Northern Virginia can be referred to the FBI by calling 202-278-2000 or tips.fbi.gov.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge, Criminal Division, FBI Washington Field Office; Maggie A. DeBoard, Town of Herndon Police Chief; and Marcus G. Jones, Montgomery County Chief of Police, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Liam O'Grady accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorney John C. Blanchard is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:20-cr-123.
Louisville Riot Activity Results in Multiple Federal Indictments for Pharmacy Looting, Carjacking, and Armed FelonsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman today announced federal indictments returned against multiple individuals in Louisville, Kentucky, as a result of civil unrest in Jefferson County during the period Monday, June 1, through Wednesday, June 3, 2020. The defendants charged are alleged to have engaged in robbing area pharmacies, a carjacking, and the illegal possession of firearms.
“Our black neighbors and the safety of the neighborhoods in which they live matter,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Which is why looting local pharmacies for dangerous drugs, carrying weapons as a convicted felon, carjacking, and a felon traveling to our city to put police and protestors at risk will not be tolerated by federal law enforcement here. These federal charges, with more to come, seek to respond to lawlessness that has nothing to do with constitutionally-protected protest and everything to do with exploiting Louisville’s challenges for their own gain.”
“Protecting our community’s First Amendment right to peacefully protest is of utmost importance to the FBI. The individuals named in these indictments attempted to subvert peaceful protests for their own personal gain and ultimately threatened the rights and safety of law-abiding citizens,” Special Agent in Charge Robert Brown, FBI Louisville Field Office. “FBI Louisville will continue working alongside our law enforcement partners to identify, locate, and apprehend those exploiting nonviolent protests and to ensure individuals wanting to be heard can do so safely.”
“At the request of the Attorney General, ATF has deployed resources and is supporting our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to uphold the rule of law,” stated ATF Louisville Division Special Agent in Charge, R. Shawn Morrow. “These defendants threatened the safety of Metro Louisville and were acting outside of residents who were peacefully assembled. Further, ATF will continue to aggressively investigate the illegal use of firearms and the often resulting violent crime in order to secure the safety of our communities.”
Pharmacy Robberies
● Vontreil Bailey, 30, of Louisville, has been charged with conspiracy to commit burglary involving controlled substances. According to a criminal complaint, on June 2, 2020, LMPD responded to a burglary in progress at Walgreens on 5201 S. 3rd St. Louisville, Kentucky. Police observed multiple people fleeing the business when they arrived. Bailey was detained at that time with the prescriptions still in hand. During a Law Enforcement interview on June 6, 2020, an employee of the business advised that the burglary had severely affected Walgreens’ ability to conduct business as patients prescriptions had been stolen, and the pharmacy was left in disarray.
Bailey has numerous previous convictions including: multiple convictions for theft by deception, menacing, fleeing and evading police, wanton endangerment, robbery and burglary.
● Jean-Pierre Crowdus, 31, Frederick D. Eaves, 31, and Channel Lewis, 26, all of Louisville, Kentucky, have also all been charged federally with Conspiracy to Commit Burglary Involving Controlled Substances for breaking in and looting at the CVS drug store at 3130 Portland Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky.
Eaves has also been charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
The charges carry a penalty of no more than 10 years, a maximum fine of $250,000 and no more than three years of supervised release.
Carjacking
● Damion Lemont Hayes, 20, of Louisville, Kentucky, has been charged with carjacking. Hayes was on a felony diversion at the time of the carjacking as a result of a February 2020 conviction for charges that were initially filed as complicity to murder and complicity to robbery.
According to a criminal complaint, on June 2, 2020, the victim was driving a black 2017 Subaru Forester with a friend down Bardstown Road. The two victims ran into protestors and police activity on Bardstown – they parked to see what was going on. As the victims were walking they were asked for a ride by two females and five males. They all walked back to the victims’ Subaru, however, only three of the males got in the car.
The victim continued to drive down Bardstown, but was caught in traffic. According to the victim, she was uncomfortable with the men in the car, and told them she needed to get gas. She was directed by one of the men to BP, where one of the men put $20 worth of gas in the Subaru. The driver was then directed to drive to three different houses.
The victim reported she wanted the men out of the car, and as she turned to tell them she needed to get home one of the men in the rear passenger side of the car pointed a gun at her. At that point both victims were forced out of the car. The men attempted to take their cell phones, according to the complaint. A minor struggle ensued and one of the men was sprayed with mace by the owner of the car.
The victims reported they were left at Strader and Wheeler Street in Louisville at 12:23 a.m. on June 3, 2020.
On June 4, 2020, at approximately 1:40 a.m. LMPD officers were in pursuit of the Subaru, which flipped into the median off I-64. At that time five people were inside the vehicle, all of whom were taken to the University of Louisville Hospital. One of the occupants at the time of the crash was defendant Hayes, who was arrested by LMPD on state charges.
The federal carjacking charge carries a penalty of no more than 15 years, a maximum fine of $250,000 and no more than three years of supervised release.
Felons in Possession of Firearms
● Brian N. Dean, Jr., 24 of Louisville, is charged by a Grand Jury Indictment with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. According to a criminal complaint, on June 3, 2020, LMPD officers responding to a call of shots fired identified Dean as a person who matched the description of a subject who pointed a gun at an individual. Officers approached Dean, upon noticing the outline of a gun in his pocket he was detained, and officers recovered a Glock, model 43, 9mm, with a loaded magazine.
Dean was previously convicted in Jefferson County, Kentucky, with Robbery in the Second Degree (two counts) and Burglary in the Second Degree; all felonies.
● Tevin R. Patton, 27, of Memphis, Tennessee, has also been charged for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. The federal criminal complaint asserts that the Memphis, Tennessee, man drew a firearm in downtown Louisville.
According to the criminal complaint, on Monday, June 1, 2020, at approximately 10:20 pm Patton was viewed by law enforcement who were conducting surveillance near South 5th St. in downtown Louisville. During the surveillance, a U.S. Secret Service special agent observed Patton pull out a gun.
Law enforcement at the scene then dispersed the crowd with tear gas and flash bang devices, striking Patton with pepper balls once he was observed pointing the gun in the air. Upon being struck by the pepper balls, Patton ran to his car and fled the scene. Police then stopped Patton’s vehicle and located a Springfield Armory USA, model XDs-45, .45 caliber pistol in his vehicle, partially loaded with four rounds remaining in a ten round magazine.
In 2013, Patton pleaded guilty to Aggravated Burglary, a felony, out of Tennessee. Additionally, in 2016 Patton pleaded guilty to aggravated assault, a felony, out of Tennessee. In 2016, Patton was charged with 4th Degree Domestic Violence and Fleeing or Evading Police, 1st Degree.
If convicted at trial, the maximum sentence for being a convicted felon unlawfully possessing a firearm is no more than ten years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Secret Service, and the Louisville Metro Police Department are investigating these cases.
The indictment of a person by a Grand Jury is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Lexington Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Marijuana Trafficking and Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Lexington man, Javantez L. Masters, 21, pleaded guilty on Thursday, before Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves, to possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to Masters’ plea agreement, he admitted that, on September 23, 2019, searches of his residence and vehicle uncovered more than 16 kilograms of marijuana, approximately $35,644 in cash, a loaded rifle, two pistols, , magazines, ammunition, and an active marijuana grow operation. He was also in possession of a vacuum sealer, vacuum sealer bags, and a money counter. Masters further admitted that he had the firearms for protection. Masters, who had a prior drug felony conviction, was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Masters was indicted in February 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by ATF and the Lexington Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Rieker.
Masters is scheduled to be sentenced on October 9, 2020. He faces up to 10 years in prison for the marijuana offense; a minimum of five years and a maximum of life for the armed drug trafficking offense, which must run consecutively to any other sentence imposed; and up to 10 years on the possession by a convicted felon offense. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
This is another case prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney Robert Duncan Jr., coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian.
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Leader of Trenton Drug Trafficking Organization IndictedRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A federal grand jury today indicted the leader of a Trenton drug-trafficking organization for his role overseeing and managing the distribution of large amounts of heroin in the Trenton area, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Robert M. Gbanapolor, 33, of Trenton, was charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin with the intent to distribute and distribution. Gbanapolor and 10 others were previously charged by complaint in June 2019. He will be arraigned on a date to be determined.
Eight other members of this drug trafficking conspiracy have previously pleaded guilty in this case. The charges against two other defendants remain pending on complaint.
According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court:
From June 2018 through May 2019, the defendants and others engaged in a heroin trafficking conspiracy in the areas of Stuyvesant Avenue, Hoffman Avenue, and Highland Avenue in Trenton, as well as in the area of Barbary Road in Philadelphia.
Through the interception of telephone calls and text messages pursuant to court-authorized wiretap orders, controlled purchases of heroin, the use of confidential sources of information, and other investigative techniques, law enforcement learned that Gbanapolor obtained regular bulk supplies of heroin from Duane Paulino-Escalera, whom Gbanapolor referred to as “Papi.”
Members of the conspiracy distributed the heroin supplied by Papi to other conspirators, distributors, sub-dealers, and end-users in and around Trenton. Law enforcement officers intercepted numerous discussions among the conspirators regarding issues such as heroin quality and availability, branding, quantity and customer satisfaction.
The charge against Gbanapolor carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum potential penalty of 40 years in prison, and a $5 million fine.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Division, Camden Resident Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson; and task force officers of the Trenton Police Department, under the direction of Police Director Sheilah Coley, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanked detectives and officers of the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Christine A. Hoffman; detectives and officers of the Gloucester Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief Harry Earle; members of the N.J. State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan; detectives and officers of the Bordentown Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Pesce; and special agents of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Charlie J. Patterson for their assistance.
This case is being conducted under the auspices of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric A. Boden and Michelle S. Gasparian of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment and the original complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lame Deer man admits attempting to sexual abuse minorRead the Press Release
BILLINGS – A Lame Deer man today admitted allegations that he attempted to sexually abuse a minor in 2018, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Jason Jay Tallbull, 39, pleaded guilty to attempted sexual abuse of a minor. Tallbull faces a maximum 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least five years to a lifetime of supervised release.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Tallbull was detained pending further proceedings.
The prosecution said in court records that Tallbull and the victim, a boy who was between the ages of 12 and 16, were at Tallbull's residence on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation in December 2018. Tallbull was drunk and the victim joined him in the basement, where both were drinking and talking. At some point, the victim tried to leave, but Tallbull made a sexually-charged comment and grabbed the victim's hand to pull him close. The victim tried to resist and hit Tallbull, but Tallbull overpowered the victim and knocked him out.
The victim woke up on Tallbull's bed and was not wearing the same clothes. The victim had injuries on various areas of his body and underwent a sexual assault examination. Law enforcement responded to Tallbull's house. Blood samples from Tallbull's mattress belonged to both the victim and Tallbull.
When interviewed by the FBI, Tallbull said he and the victim had been drinking in the basement. He said he did not remember exactly what occurred, but that he felt like something happened. Tallbull admitted he was probably physically attracted to the victim.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Dake is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
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Lafayette Convicted Felon Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Three Armed CarjackingsRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced that Manuel King, 30, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to serve 20 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for three armed carjackings.
King, a previously convicted felon, carjacked three separate people on February 20, 2019. The first victim was standing next to his Jeep Grand Cherokee in a Wal-Mart parking lot when King approached and threatened him with a Kimber 9mm semi-automatic pistol. King took the victim’s wallet and drove away in the vehicle. Shortly thereafter, King crashed the Jeep and proceeded to carjack a second victim. He crashed that car and then carjacked a third victim. King was pursued by police, eventually crashing the third car into a pond. At that point, he was arrested and was still in possession of the 9mm pistol he used during each carjacking incident. King’s wallet was found in the second victim’s vehicle.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Lafayette Police Department, and Lafayette City Marshal’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. McCoy prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Kissimmee Man Sentenced for Aiding and Abetting the Filing of More Than 100 Fraudulent L-1 and E-2 Visa ApplicationsRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza today sentenced Carl Farey (55, Kissimmee) to 10 months in federal prison for aiding and abetting visa fraud. The court also ordered Farey removed from the United States, pursuant to an agreed-upon judicial removal order.
According to court documents, from 2013 through 2020, agents from Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) Document and Benefits Fraud Task Force identified more than 115 E-2 and L-1A employment-based nonimmigrant visa petitions associated with Farey and his two companies, of which he is the sole employee. Like many business visa petitions, these petitions require supporting documentation to establish that the beneficiary meets the minimum requirements to be approved for an L-1A/E-2 nonimmigrant visa or visa extension.
Farey’s services included completing immigration benefits application forms for the aliens by inputting false and fraudulent information into the application forms. Farey also altered and manipulated documents he had received from the aliens, and attached the resulting false and fraudulent documents as supporting evidence to immigration benefits applications. In order to distance himself from the fraudulent applications, Farey did not list his name as preparer on the applications and did not submit the applications himself. Instead, Farey provided completed immigration benefits applications to his clients, and instructed them to place those immigration benefits applications, along with the fraudulently altered, manipulated, created, and forged documents attached to those immigration benefits applications, in the mail and send them to U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services processing centers in Vermont, California, and Texas.
“Immigration document and benefit fraud can have serious national security, public safety, and economic consequences,” said HSI Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David J. Pezzutti. “The HSI Orlando Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force (DBFTF) will continue to work with partners like the U.S. Department of State - Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - Fraud Detection and National Security to protect the integrity of our lawful immigration system.”
This case was the culmination of the combined investigative efforts of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Department of State – Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Criminal Enforcement Unit, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - Fraud Detection and National Security. These agencies comprise HSI’s Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force, which was created to combat visa fraud and other similar crimes. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda Daniels.
Kentucky Man Sentenced to Prison for Engaging in Illicit Sexual Conduct While Traveling and Residing in CambodiaRead the Press Release
A Kentucky resident was sentenced in federal court today to 21 years in prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release after a guilty plea on Jan. 16, 2020, for being a U.S. citizen who engaged and attempted to engage in illicit sexual conduct with two minor females while he traveled and resided in Cambodia.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Robert M. Duncan Jr. for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jerry Templet of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Nashville, and Kentucky State Police Commissioner Rodney Brewer made the announcement.
Micky Rife, 36, formerly of Salyersville, Kentucky, was sentenced today before U.S. District Judge Gregory F. Van Tatenhove. In his plea agreement, Rife admitted that between Sept. 3, 2012, and Dec. 9, 2018, he traveled in foreign commerce, and between March 7, 2013, and Dec. 9, 2018, he resided in Cambodia, and that during those periods of time, he touched two minor females under their clothing and inside or on their genital areas on more than one occasion. He further admitted that both minor victims were under the age of 12 when the illicit conduct occurred.
Rife was previously indicted for two separate counts of the same offense in February 2019. He pleaded guilty to a single-count information filed on Jan. 16, 2020.
The investigation was conducted in Cambodia and Kentucky by HSI and the Kentucky State Police. Trial Attorney Lauren S. Kupersmith of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Marye prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Jury Finds Little Rock Man Guilty of Extortion and Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LITTLE ROCK—In the first federal criminal jury trial in the state since the coronavirus pandemic began in March, a federal jury found Devion Cumbie, 24, guilty on all seven counts for which he was indicted: production of child pornography, two counts of attempted production of child pornography, and four counts of extortion.
The jury returned their verdict Thursday afternoon after deliberating for just under four hours. United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr., presided over the three-day trial, and Judge Moody will sentence Cumbie, of Little Rock, at a later date.
“This defendant used the internet to manipulate his victims,” said Cody Hiland, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “Today’s verdict sends a clear message to those who engage in these disgusting acts under the cloak of perceived anonymity: you will be identified, and you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent available to us under federal law.”
Testimony during the trial established that in late 2018, a 16-year-old girl in Colorado sent a Facebook message to “Chink Capone,” the online persona of an actor named Alex Drummond. However, the Facebook page actually belonged to Cumbie, posing as Drummond’s online persona. The two began talking, and Cumbie told the minor he might like to meet her soon but would first need to see some photographs of her in her underwear. Cumbie eventually convinced the minor to send him a partially nude photograph. Cumbie then threatened the minor that he would post the photo to her Facebook page unless she sent him a video of herself naked. The minor told her mother, and they reported the conduct to police.
Investigation revealed that Cumbie had conducted a similar scheme with numerous other victims, four of whom testified at trial, and some of whom were minors. Additionally, Cumbie was on pretrial release awaiting trial on federal gun charges while he engaged in the conduct that led to the child pornography and extortion charges. Cumbie was indicted by a federal grand jury in July 2019, and his first trial in February 2020 ended in a hung jury. A superseding indictment was filed earlier this month, resulting in this week’s trial and conviction. Cumbie is still awaiting trial on the separate firearms charges.
“Today’s conviction closes the book on a criminal who took advantage of women and minors over the internet,” said FBI Little Rock Special Agent in Charge Diane Upchurch. “Mr. Cumbie disguised his true identity on the internet and then callously exploited numerous victims for his own sexual gratification. Our agents and law enforcement partners worked tirelessly on this investigation, and we feel like justice has been served with the jury’s verdict.”
The statutory penalty for production of child pornography, as well as attempted production of child pornography, is not less than 15 years imprisonment, not more than 30 years imprisonment, and not less than five years of supervised release. The statutory penalty for extortion is not more than two years imprisonment and not more than one year of supervised release. All offenses of conviction include a potential penalty of not more than a $250,000 fine.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, and the case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kristin Bryant and Erin O’Leary.
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This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at
https://www.justice.gov/edar
Twitter:
@EDARNEWS
Judge Hands Down Max Sentence for Man Who Threatened to Kill an AUSARead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A U.S. District Judge handed down the maximum sentence in a case involving death threats against an Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA), said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Kent Allen Crawford of Savannah, Georgia, previously pleaded guilty to one count of sending a death threat through the U.S. Postal Service. Today, Crawford was sentenced to the maximum 120 months in prison by U.S. District Judge William T. Moore, Jr. during a hearing conducted in Savannah federal court. There is no parole in the federal system.
The defendant admitted he mailed a letter to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia on June 18, 2019, threatening to kill Assistant U.S. Attorney Theodore Hertzberg. Crawford went on to write that if AUSA Hertzberg was not present, he would “kill whichever U.S. Attorney was there. It really makes no difference to me. A U.S. Attorney is going to die.”
“The defendant received the maximum penalty for threatening to kill a prosecutor, sending a clear message that death threats against law enforcement are taken seriously,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “I want to thank the FBI and our fellow prosecutors at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District for their assistance in this case.”
“We appreciate the great work of Middle District of Georgia U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler and Assistant U.S. Attorney and Criminal Chief Michael T. Solis in navigating this challenging case to its successful conclusion,” said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. “A key to our strength in protecting the citizens of our communities is in our collaborative efforts to promote the rule of law.”
"Crawford has a habit of threatening law enforcement and this sentencing should make it clear to him that the U.S. Government takes those threats very seriously," said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. "He now has ample time to reflect on the decisions he made that led to his lengthy incarceration."
This case was investigated by the FBI. Criminal Chief and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Solis prosecuted the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Jacksonville Felon Indicted for Possessing Unregistered Sawed Off Shotgun in Furtherance of Meth DealingRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an indictment charging Steven Michael Smith (35, Jacksonville) with possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, possessing a short-barreled shotgun in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime, possessing firearms as a convicted felon, and possessing an unregistered short-barreled shotgun and an unregistered short-barreled weapon made from a shotgun. If convicted, Smith faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment for possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison for possessing the shotgun in furtherance of drug trafficking, and up to 10 years in federal prison for the firearms possession offenses. The indictment also notifies Smith that the United States intends to forfeit four firearms, which are alleged to have been involved in the offenses.
According to the
indictment , on April 30, 2020, Smith possessed methamphetamine that he intended to distribute. In furtherance of that drug trafficking crime, Smith possessed a Winchester 16-gauge shotgun with a barrel measuring less than 18 inches in length. The short-barreled shotgun, as well as a Mossberg 12-gauge weapon (made from a shotgun), also with a barrel measuring less than 18 inches in length, were not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, as required.Smith had been previously convicted of at least four felonies. Therefore, he is prohibited from possessing any firearms or ammunition under federal law.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Cofer Taylor.
This is another case prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety—one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Italian national sentenced to federal prison for attempting to evade U.S. national security trade sanctionsRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: An Italian national has been sentenced to federal prison after his conviction for violating national security laws.
Gabriele Villone of Italy was sentenced to 28 months in prison for conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (ECRA), said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
“The defendant tried to obtain industrial equipment from the United States on behalf of a Russian energy company in violation of U.S. sanctions,” said U.S. Attorney Christine. “We will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law those who threaten our national security.”
As described in court documents and testimony, Villone, along with two Russian nationals, an Italian national, a U.S. citizen and various companies, conspired to obtain a power turbine from the United States without a license on behalf of a Russian energy company based in St. Petersburg. Villone and some of his co-defendants were arrested in Savannah, Ga., while attempting to complete the illegal transaction.
According to the indictment, the conspiracy began when an unnamed Russian government-controlled business contracted with Oleg Nikitin, a Russian national, and KS Engineering (“KSE”), the Russian-based energy company, to purchase a power turbine from a U.S.-based manufacturer for approximately $17.3 million. Evidence in the case established the intent of the Russian company to use the turbine on a Russian Arctic deepwater drilling platform. For reasons of national security, the U.S. Department of Commerce expressly prohibited any unlicensed shipment or transfer of the turbine to the Russian company for that purpose.
The indictment further alleged that Nikitin, KSE, and another KSE employee, Anton Cheremukhin, hired Villone, Bruno Caparini and GVA International to obtain the turbine on their behalf. Villone, Caprini and GVA then employed the services of Dali Bagrou and World Mining and Oil Supply (“WMO”) of Dacula, Ga., to procure the turbine from a U.S.-based manufacturer and to have the turbine shipped overseas. The parties conspired to conceal the true end user of the turbine from both the U.S. manufacturer and the U.S. government by submitting false documentation that stated it would be used by a U.S. company in and around Atlanta.
“The illegal transfer of technology that allows our adversaries to gain a military advantage will never be tolerated,” said Special Agent in Charge Cyndy Bruce, DCIS Southeast Field Office. “The United States will continue to conduct investigations to ensure our critical technologies are secure and those who seek to infiltrate our defense systems are brought to justice.”
“This defendant was part of a bold, shameless scheme to undermine United States sanctions,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “This direct threat to national security was upended because of a collaborative investigation by federal law enforcement partners and now justice is being served to those involved in it.”
“The export and cargo environment examinations are a critical component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s trade enforcement and border security missions,” said Donald F. Yando, Director of CBP Field Operations Atlanta. “CBP remains committed to working with our partners and enforcing the laws and regulations that are in place to protect the American public.”
The Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, Office of Export Enforcement, as well as the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case with assistance from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer G. Solari and Steven H. Lee are prosecuting the case with Trial Attorney William A. Mackie of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
Indictment Charges Three Men with Violent Robbery of Stamford JewelerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney John H. Durham, Chief State’s Attorney Richard J. Colangelo, Jr., FBI Special Agent in Charge David Sundberg, Stamford Police Chief Timothy Shaw and Greenwich Police Chief James J. Heavey, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned a superseding indictment yesterday charging ROBERT RALLO, 56, of Brooklyn, New York, THOMAS LIBERATORE, 62, of White Plains, New York, and PAUL PROSANO, also known as “Tony Pro,” 60, of Brooklyn, with federal offenses in connection with the March 28 robbery of Marco Jewelers in Stamford, Connecticut. During the robbery, the owner of Marco Jewelers was shot and killed.
As alleged in court documents, on March 28, 2020, at approximately 2:48 p.m., Stamford Police Officers responded to Marco Jewelers, located at 16 Sixth Street in Stamford. When officers arrived, they found evidence of a robbery and encountered the storeowner, Mark Vuono, lying on the ground in front of an open safe. Emergency medical personnel arrived and pronounced Vuono deceased.
It is further alleged that investigators collected and analyzed surveillance video from Marco Jewelers, surrounding businesses and Stamford city cameras. Video obtained from Marco Jewelers revealed that, on March 28, Prosano drove Rallo and Liberatore in a black Jaguar to Marco Jewelers. Rallo and Liberatore then entered the store. Rallo, armed with a handgun, engaged in a physical altercation with Vuono, while Liberatore stole items from the display cases. Vuono, who also possessed a firearm, and Rallo struggled next to a large open safe. During the more than three-minute struggle, Rallo reached into the safe and pulled out a third firearm, a .357 Magnum revolver. Rallo subsequently shot and killed Vuono with the .357 revolver.
It is alleged that, following the robbery, law enforcement located the black Jaguar in Staten Island and maintained surveillance on the vehicle. On March 30, at approximately 5:30 p.m., a black BMW X3, driven by Prosano, pulled up beside the black Jaguar. Rallo exited the rear door of the BMW and entered the driver’s door of a black Jaguar. The two vehicles then left the area and rapidly accelerated. The Jaguar crashed on Tompkins Street. Rallo attempted to flee on foot, but was quickly apprehended. The BMW crashed into a tree and parked car at the intersection of Daniel Low Terrace and Corson Avenue. Prosano also attempted to flee and was apprehended.
A search of the BMW revealed 63 rings, eight bracelets, two tie pins, an earring and a cufflink, and a search of Prosano’s residence revealed 23 pairs of earrings and three rings. It is alleged that these items were stolen from Marco Jewelers on March 28. Liberatore also was arrested on March 30.
The defendants have been detained in New York on state parole violation charges since their arrests.
The superseding indictment charges Rallo, Liberatore and Prosano with interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act robbery), an offense that carries a maximum term imprisonment of 20 years, and with interstate transportation of stolen property, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
The indictment also charges Rallo, aided and abetted by Liberatore, with using a firearm to cause a death during a robbery. If convicted of this offense, Rallo and Liberatore face a mandatory term of imprisonment of life, or death if the government seeks the death penalty in this matter.
It is alleged that prior to the Marco Jewelers robbery, on March 18, 2020, Liberatore drove a Honda Civic he had stolen from a car dealer in Yonkers, New York, to Byram Jewelers in Greenwich, Connecticut. He entered the store at approximately 4:45 p.m. and asked a store employee to show him engagement rings. He then pointed a pistol at the employee, stole several rings, smashed a display case with his pistol and stole other items before exiting the store.
On June 3, 2020, Liberatore was charged in a separate indictment with one count of interference with commerce by robbery, one count of possession and brandishing of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle. If convicted of the firearm charge, Liberatore faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years, which must be imposed consecutively to any other sentence.
It is alleged that each defendant has an extensive criminal history and the three men met while serving their respective sentences within the New York State Department of Corrections.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stamford Police Department and Greenwich Police Department, with the assistance of the New York Police Department, Yonkers (N.Y.) Police Department and New Rochelle (N.Y.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis and Rahul Kale.
Indictment Charges 3 Men with Trafficking HeroinRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that a grand jury New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging WILTON REYNOSO, also known as Manuel Jose Echevarria-Lugo, 47, a citizen of the Dominican Republic residing in Waterbury; TYSON QUINONES, also known as “Ty,” 34, of Waterbury; and DEESHAWN PITTMAN, also known as “Low,” 30, of New Haven, with trafficking heroin.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, in late 2019, the DEA New Haven Task Force began an investigation into the distribution of heroin in New Haven. The investigation, which included thousands of intercepted communications over court-authorized wiretaps, revealed that Pittman and others were distributing heroin and crack cocaine to a large customer base in New Haven County. Pittman was supplied with heroin by Quinones, who also distributed heroin and cocaine to his own customers in and around Waterbury. Quinones was supplied with heroin from Reynoso, who received large quantities of heroin from a source in New York.
On June 13, 2020, investigators sought to arrest the three defendants after intercepting a series of calls that, as alleged, indicted that Reynoso and Quinones were planning to conduct a 200-gram heroin transaction, with a portion of the drugs possibly destined for Pittman. On that date, Pittman was arrested at his residence, a search of which revealed approximately 50 grams of a mixture of suspected heroin and fentanyl, and more than $15,000 in cash. Quinones was arrested at the anticipated meeting place. A subsequent search of his residence revealed a stolen, loaded 9mm pistol. Reynoso fled from the meeting scene in his vehicle, which was found abandoned nearby. He was arrested a short time later after he returned to the vehicle. A search of a location in Waterbury that Reynoso used to store, process and package narcotics revealed more than kilogram of a mixture of suspected heroin and fentanyl.
Each of the defendants, who are detained, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams of more of heroin, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham noted that the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges are possible. He further noted that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck and Waterbury Police Departments.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys H. Gordon Hall and John T. Pierpont, Jr.
Idaho Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Solicit Sexual Abuse Images of A 9-Year-Old ChildRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announced that Aaron Kirk Woolman (58, Hagerman, Idaho) has pleaded guilty to attempting to entice a 9-year-old child to engage in sexual activity and produce pornographic images of herself. Woolman faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison. Woolman was arrested by FBI agents at his home in Idaho on December 11, 2019, and transported to Jacksonville, where he remains in custody pending sentencing.
According to court documents, on August 7, 2019, an undercover FBI agent from Jacksonville, posing as a parent of a 9-year-old child, made contact with Woolman in an online chat application. During several chat sessions, Woolman solicited the “parent” to send him pornographic images of the child. Woolman also engaged in conversations via text messaging with an undercover FBI agent posing as the 9-year-old child. During these conversations, Woolman solicited the “child” to engage in sexual activity, produce explicit images of herself, and send these images to Woolman. Woolman tried to convince the “child” to comply with his requests by sending the “child” explicit images of himself and adult pornography.
On December 13, 2019, FBI agents and other law enforcement personnel executed a search warrant at Woolman’s home, where he was arrested. Woolman admitted to communicating with the “dad” and the 9-year-old “girl” for a couple of weeks. He also admitted that he had sent the “girl” a picture of his penis and acknowledged that he had asked the “girl” for a picture of her in the shower, and for other explicit pictures of her.
A search of Woolman’s online cloud storage account revealed several images and videos depicting young children engaged in sexual acts with adults. Woolman’s smart phone also contained child sex abuse images. FBI agents also recovered a loaded handgun in the drawer of Woolman’s nightstand, stored together with a quantity of marijuana, baggies, and a digital scale.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Jacksonville and Boise, Idaho), as well as the Gooding County (Idaho) Sheriff’s Office and the Twin Falls (Idaho) Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Huntington Woman Sentenced for Selling HeroinRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. - A Huntington woman was sentenced in federal court for selling heroin, according to United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Amanda Layne, 41, was sentenced to 18 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
Layne previously admitted that on August 30, 2018, she sold 10 grams of heroin to a confidential informant at 106 Lawson Avenue in Huntington. As part of her plea agreement, Layne also admitted that officers found 114 grams of heroin in her home and that she intended to sell the heroin in exchange for money.
“We mean business in Huntington and everywhere else in the Southern District of West Virginia,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We are getting the drugs off the street - in this case more than 100 grams of heroin - and putting the poison peddlers and pushers behind bars.”
The West Virginia State Police, the Drug and Violent Crime Task Force West and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Stephanie S. Taylor prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
The case was prosecuted as part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS), an enforcement surge that seeks to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas.
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Huntington Woman Sentenced for Federal Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington woman caught with drugs in 2015 was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Kaley Elizabeth Bowen, 29, previously pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine base and marijuana.
“In these times, we encourage and support businesses as they do all they can to survive, but not this type of business. Ms. Bowen’s business was dealing drugs out of her apartment- heroin, cocaine base and marijuana. Fortunately, this business is ‘Closed’ and the drugs never hit the street,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart.
Bowen admitted that on November 21, 2015, Huntington police officers came to her residence located at 1441 7th Avenue, Apartment 5, in response to a reported domestic dispute. When officers arrived, they found Bowen in the residence and observed multiple items consistent with drug distribution. Officers secured a search warrant for Bowen’s residence and during the search, officers seized approximately 300 grams of heroin, 27 grams of cocaine base, and 155 grams of marijuana. Bowen admitted that she intended to sell the drugs.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Huntington Police Department conducted the investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
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High Society Hit Squad Gang Member Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A member of a Petersburg gang called High Society Hit Squad, or H$2X, was sentenced today to nearly six years in prison for possessing a firearm after having been convicted of a felony.
According to court documents, Daekwon Castelle, aka Dae Stackcz, 22, of Petersburg, was arrested in September 2019, just five months after he pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding involving a firearm, and was released from state custody. At the time of his arrest, Castelle was in possession of a loaded .45 caliber firearm with a round in the chamber. Additionally, at the time of arrest, Castelle was in possession of a distribution quantity fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance and nearly $800 in cash.
Testimony at today’s sentencing hearing showed that between April 2019 and the date of Castelle’s arrest in September 2019, he distributing cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, pills, and marijuana. Testimony also showed that Castelle was often armed when he was dealing drugs.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Washington Field Division; and Kenneth A. Miller, Director of Public Safety, Petersburg Bureau of Police, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson. Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela Mastandrea-Miller prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-005.
Hancock County Woman Sentenced to Almost Five Years in Prison for Selling a Firearm to a FelonRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Janette Marie Asplund, 36, of Hancock County, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola Jr. to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for knowingly selling a firearm to a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent-in-Charge Kurt Thielhorn with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Asplund was also ordered to pay a $2,500 fine.
In July 2019, Asplund knowingly sold a shotgun to a person who she knew was a convicted felon. Federal law specifically prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms or ammunition. Asplund was indicted on July 24, 2019, and pled guilty before Judge Guirola on January 23, 2020.
U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the investigation by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.
Grand Jury - June 2020Read the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced the federal Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska has returned 37 Unsealed Indictments charging 39 defendants. Indictments are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
* Jesse Alcantar, age 26, of Redlands, California, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) on or about November 15, 2019. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about November 15, 2019.
* Nolan Lee Al-Jaddou, age 35, is charged with transmission of an interstate communication containing a threat to injure the person of another on or about March, 25, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Jason L. Bates, age 48, of Omaha, is charged with coercion and enticement of a minor beginning on or about March 30, 2020, through on or about April 6. 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Lashannon D. Bland, age 40, of Omaha, is charged in a three-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendant with possession with intent to distribute a detectable amount of cocaine (mixture) on February 6, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, $1,000,000 fine, three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with using or possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime on or about February 6. 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count III charges the defendant with felon in possession of a firearm on or about February 6. 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Lorenzo Cristobal-Francisco, age 34, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about June 8, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Isidro De La Luz Reyes, age 47, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about May 31, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Timothy Raymond Denney, age 35, of Santee Indian Reservation, Nebraska, is charged with assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country on or about May 3, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* John A. Duncan, age 36, of Omaha, is charged in a two-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendant with receipt and distribution of child pornography on or about February 9, 2019 and continuing to on or about March 3, 2019. The maximum possible penalty is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and a $35,000 additional special assessment and $3,000 Restitution. Count II charges the defendant with possession of child pornography on or about February 6, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and a $17,000 additional special assessment and $3,000 Restitution.
* Wendy A. Eckert, age 40, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to deliver 500 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) and 5 grams more of methamphetamine (actual) beginning on November 1, 2018, and continuing through October 23, 2019. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, ten-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Jesus Frias-Garcia, age 48, is charged with fraudulent use of a social security number on or about October 22, 2014 and continuing through March 17, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, one-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment.
* Bernardo Juan Garcia Raymundo, age 27, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about May 3, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Derrick Ray Geesaman, age 30, of Niobrara, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendant with assault of a spouse, intimate partner, or dating partner by strangulation in Indian Country on or about March 31, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with domestic assault by an habitual offender in Indian Country on or about March 31, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Jorge Gonzalez Renteria, age 27, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation following a felony conviction on or about May 14, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Jason J. Griess, age 30, of Ashton, Nebraska, is charged in a four-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendant with production of child pornography on or about December 28, 2018 and continuing to on or about January 1, 2019. The maximum possible penalty is 30 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and a $50,000 additional special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with production of child pornography on or about December 28, 2018 and continuing to on or about January 1, 2019. The maximum possible penalty is 30 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and a $50,000 additional special assessment. Count III charges the defendant with production of child pornography on or about March 17, 2019. The maximum possible penalty is 30 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and a $50,000 additional special assessment. Count VI charges the defendant with distribution of child pornography on or about August 10, 2019 and continuing through August 16, 2019. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and a $35,000 additional special assessment.
* Leah Hallstrom, age 35, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Adam Ross, age 26, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, are charged in a two-count Indictment. Count I charges Hallstrom with conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to deliver 500 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) beginning on May 22, 2019, and continuing through February, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges both defendants with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) on February 17, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $5,000,000 fine, four-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* William L. Hawkins, age 42, of Omaha, is charged in a three-count Indictment. Counts I and II charge the defendant with distribution of a detectable amount of cocaine (mixture) on or about January 8, 2020 and on March 2, 2020. The maximum possible penalty, on each count, if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, $1,000,000 fine, three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count III charges the defendant with possession of ammunition as a felon on or about March 6. 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Samuel Izaguirre, age 19, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with being an unlawful user in possession of ammunition on or about May 29. 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Nicholas James Kuhr, age 26, of Omaha, is charged with coercion and enticement of a minor beginning on or about March 17, 2020, through on or about March 23, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment and $5,000 additional special assessment.
* Gregory B. Lane, age 53, is charged in a nine-count Indictment. Counts I through VIII charge the defendant with Wire Fraud from on or about March 22, 2019 and continuing through September 3, 2019. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment for each count. Count IX charges the defendant with theft of postal property on or about March 22, 2019 and continuing through September 3, 2019. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 3 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 1-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Tanner J. Leichleiter, age 30, of Tekamah, Nebraska, and Nora Gilda Guevara Tirana, age 42, of Tekamah, Nebraska, are charged in a two-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendants with kidnapping and aiding and abetting beginning on or about April 19, 2020, through on or about April 20, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment. Count II charges Leichleiter with prohibited person in possession of firearms beginning on or about April 19, 2020 and continuing through April 20, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment.
* Harold Gene Linscomb, age 31, of Houston, Texas, Zachary Daniel Harris, age 28, of Houston, Texas, and Kion Verdier, age 27, of Manvel, Texas are charged in a four-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendants with conspiracy to commit bank larceny on or about January 1, 2020 and continuing through April 12, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendants with bank theft on or about April 11, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count III charges the defendants with bank theft on or about April 12, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count IV charges Harris with carjacking on or about April 12, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Vicente Lopez Andrade, a/k/a Alfredo Delapaz Espericueta, age 39, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about October 20, 2019, following an aggravated felony conviction. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Carlos Jesus Lorenzana, a/k/a Carlos De Jesus Lorenzana-Cifuentes, a/k/a Carlos De Jesus Lorenzana Cifuentes, a/k/a Carlos Gonzales Gonzales, age 34, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to deliver 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) on February 18, 2020. The maximum possible penalty for each if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $5,000,000 fine, four-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about February 18, 2020.
* Victor Mar Betancourt, age 46, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about March 27, 2020, following an aggravated felony conviction. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a 3-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Victor Manuel Roman-Degante, age 29, is charged with distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about February 4, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Jonathan Daniel Rooney, age 25, is charged with manslaughter in Indian Country on or about May 16, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Ronche L. Scaife, age 37, of Omaha, is charged with felon in possession of ammunition on or about April 21, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment.
* Odies Scott, age 56, of Omaha, is charged with felon in possession of a firearm on or about March 5, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment.
* Robert Charles Shelton, age 55, of Laughlin, Nevada, is charged in a two-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendant with transportation of child pornography with a prior sex offense on or about October 16, 2019. The maximum possible penalty is 40 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and a $35,000 additional special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with possession of child pornography with a prior sex offense on or about October 16, 2019. The maximum possible penalty is 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and a $17,000 additional special assessment.
* Jeremy T. Smith, age 43, of Omaha, is charged in a three-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendant with distribution of a detectable amount of crack cocaine on or about January 15, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 30 years’ imprisonment, $2,000,000 fine, six-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams of cocaine (mixture) on or about March 6, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $8,000,000 fine, eight-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count III charges the defendant with using or possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime on or about March 6, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ to life consecutive imprisonment to drug charge, a $250,000 fine, a five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Austin M. Thomas, age 29, is charged with theft of mail matter by postal employee on or about September, 2019 and continuing through January, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Juan Carlos Torres-Torres, a/k/a Juan Jose Torres. a/k/a Primo, age 34, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged in a three-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendant with 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about February 7, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (mixture) on or about February 10, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, $10,000,000 fine, five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count III charges the defendant with possession with intent to distribute a detectable amount of methamphetamine (mixture) on or about April 21, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, $1,000,000 fine, three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency seized on or about April 21, 2020.
* Lacee Dawn Tuttle, age 38, of Pierce, Nebraska, is charged in a four-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendant with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about July 14, 2019. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $5,000,000 fine, life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with obstruction of justice on or about July 14, 2019. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count III charges the defendant with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about October 22, 2019. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 40 years’ imprisonment, $5,000,000 fine, life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count IV charges the defendant with obstruction of justice on or about October 22, 2019. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 20 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
* Raul Valdez Rivas, age 26, of Omaha, is charged with coercion and enticement of a minor beginning on or about April 16, 2020, through on or about April 29, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment and $5,000 additional special assessment.
* Richard T. Walker, II, age 27, of Omaha, is charged with abusive sexual contact with a child under 12 beginning on or about January 19, 2020, through on or about February 8, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a life term of supervised release, a $100 special assessment and $5,000 additional special assessment.
* Travis S. Walker, age 20, of Winnebago Indian Reservation, Nebraska, is charged with felon in possession of firearm on or about June 1, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and $100 special assessment.
* Roemello Weaver, age 21, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment. Count I charges the defendant with possession with intent to distribute marijuana on or about April 14, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ imprisonment, $250,000 fine, two-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Count II charges the defendant with of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about April 14, 2020. The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 5 years’ to life imprisonment consecutive to the drug charge, $250,000 fine, five-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
Fresno Man Indicted for Possession for Sale of 137 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today against a Fresno man, charging him with possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, Jesus Lopez-Zepeda, 27, negotiated to sell 60 kilograms of methamphetamine an undercover officer for $240,000. On March 12, agents seized approximately 137 pounds of methamphetamine from Lopez-Zepeda’s residence, as well as a firearm and three rifles.
This case is the product of an investigation by the High Impact Investigation Team (HIIT), a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Initiative (HIDTA), composed of personnel from the California Department of Justice, Homeland Security Investigations, Fresno Police Department, Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, Kings County Sheriff’s Office, Fresno County District Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen A. Servatius is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Lopez-Zepeda faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine for the drug offense and a mandatory five year consecutive term on the firearms charge. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Former Treasurer of Moraga Community Foundation Charged with FraudRead the Press Release
OAKLAND – Francis Robert Fritzky, the former treasurer of the Moraga Community Foundation was charged yesterday with wire fraud and filing a false tax return, announced United States Attorney David L. Anderson and IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter.
According to an information filed with the court, from at least June 2016 through July 2019, Fritzky was the treasurer of the Moraga Community Foundation (the Foundation) and also on the Foundation’s board of directors. According to the Foundation’s bylaws, the board members and officers were not entitled to compensation or a salary for their services as board members and/or officers. As treasurer, Fritzky was responsible for maintaining and keeping records of the Foundation’s bank accounts, funds, assets, and liabilities. He also had signatory authority on the Foundation’s bank accounts and had access to the money contained within those bank accounts. According to the information, from June 23, 2016, and continuing through July 24, 2019, Fritzky allegedly made unauthorized withdrawals of more than $250,000 from the Foundation’s bank accounts to himself, to a company in which he held majority ownership interest, and to a foundation he founded and controlled. He also allegedly provided false financial reports to the Foundation’s board of directors. For example, Fritzky represented that the ending balance for one of the Foundation’s funds in December 2018 was more than $108,000 and that the ending balance of the other fund was more than $37,000 when the combined balances for both funds was allegedly less than $2,000. Court documents further allege that Fritzky filed IRS Form 990-EZ, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax, for the Foundation, falsely reporting that the Foundation’s “Cash, savings and investments” at the end of the year was $111,275, when in fact it was less than that amount.
Fritzky was charged with wire fraud and aiding and abetting, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1343, 2 and making and subscribing a false tax return, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7206(1)(a). The maximum statutory penalty for wire fraud is twenty years in prison and a fine of $250,000. The maximum statutory penalty for making and subscribing a false tax return is three years in prison and a fine of $250,000. However, any sentence will 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.
The charges contained in the information are mere allegations. As in any criminal case, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Frtizky’s first court appearance in this matter has yet to be scheduled.
The case is being prosecuted by the Special Prosecutions Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the Moraga Police Department and IRS Criminal Investigation.
Former Salyersville Resident Sentenced to 252 Months for Engaging in Illicit Sexual Conduct While Traveling and Residing in CambodiaRead the Press Release
FRANKFORT, Ky. — A former resident of Salyersville, Kentucky, Micky Rife, 37, was sentenced in federal court on Thursday, to 252 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Gregory F. Van Tatenhove, after pleading guilty on January 16, 2020, that he, a U.S. citizen, engaged and attempted to engage in illicit sexual conduct with two minor females while he traveled and resided in Cambodia. .
Rife previously admitted that between September 3, 2012, and December 9, 2018, he traveled in foreign commerce, and between March 7, 2013 and December 9, 2018, he resided in Cambodia. During those time frames, he touched two minor females under their clothing and inside or on their genital areas on more than one occasion. He further admitted that both minor victims were under the age of 12 when the illicit conduct occurred.
Rife was previously indicted for two separate counts of the same offense in February 2019. He pleaded guilty to a single count Information filed on January 16, 2020.
Under federal law, Rife must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 20 years, following his release. Rife will also be required to pay $2,000 in restitution.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Jerry Templet, Special Agent in Charge, Department of Homeland Security- Homeland Security Investigations (DHS-HSI), Nashville, and Rodney Brewer, Commissioner, Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted in Cambodia and Kentucky by HSI and the Kentucky State Police. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Marye and Trial Attorney Lauren S. Kupersmith of the Child Obscenity and Exploitation Section of the U.S. Department of Justice.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Former DIA Analyst Sentenced for Leaking Classified Information to JournalistsRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A former employee of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for leaking classified information to two journalists in 2018 and 2019.
“When our nation’s secrets are published, in print or online, those secrets are made available to all of our adversaries,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Frese’s choice to betray his oath to his country had real consequences and caused actual harm to the safety of this country and its citizens.”
According to court documents, Henry Kyle Frese, 31, of Alexandria, was employed by DIA as a counterterrorism analyst from February 2018 to October 2019, and held a Top Secret//Sensitive Compartmented Information security clearance. United States government agencies have confirmed that in the spring and summer of 2018, News Outlet 1 published eight articles, all authored by the same journalist (Journalist 1) that contained classified NDI that related to the capabilities of certain foreign countries’ weapons systems. These articles contained classified intelligence from five intelligence reports (the Compromised Intelligence Reports) made available to appropriately cleared recipients in the first half of 2018. The topic of all of these initial five Compromised Intelligence Reports – foreign countries’ weapons systems – was outside the scope of Frese’s job duties as an analyst covering CT topics. The media articles, and the intelligence reporting from which they were derived, both contained information that is classified up to the TS//SCI level, indicating that its unauthorized disclosure could reasonably be expected to result in exceptionally grave damage to the national security. The intelligence reporting was marked as such.
“Frese repeatedly passed classified information to a reporter, sometimes in response to her requests, all for personal gain,” said John C. Demers, Assistant Attorney General for National Security. “When this information was published, it was shared with all of our nation’s adversaries, creating a risk of exceptionally grave harm to the security of this country. His conviction and sentence demonstrate the Department’s commitment to the investigation and prosecution of such betrayals by clearance holders as part of our mandate to protect our citizens and defend the national security of the United States.”
According to court documents, Frese and Journalist 1 lived together at the same residential address from January 2018 to November 2018. Throughout 2018 and 2019, Frese and Journalist 1 “followed” each other on Twitter, and on at least two occasions Frese re-Tweeted Journalist 1’s tweets announcing the publications of articles containing NDI classified at the Top Secret level.
“The American people expect those entrusted with our nation's most sensitive secrets to keep those secrets safe. Mr. Frese did just the opposite,” said Alan E. Kohler, Jr., Assistant Director of the FBI's Counterintelligence Division. “The FBI is committed to protecting the national security interests of the United States and will vigorously pursue investigations into current and former clearance holders who leak classified information.”
In or about April of 2018, Journalist 1 introduced Frese to a second journalist (Journalist 2). Subsequently, Frese began texting and speaking with Journalist 2 by telephone. Between mid-2018 and late September 2019, Frese orally transmitted NDI classified at the Top Secret level to Journalist 1 on 12 separate occasions, and orally transmitted NDI classified at the Secret level to Journalist 1 on at least four occasions. Frese knew the information was classified at the Secret and Top Secret levels because the intelligence products from which he had learned the classified information had visible classification markings as to the classification level of the information, and the intelligence products accessed by Frese were stored on secure, classified government information systems.
“When Mr. Frese chose to provide classified information to members of the media, he violated his oath to serve the United States as a trusted government employee,” said Timothy R. Slater, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Washington Field Office. “Put in the hands of our adversaries, this information causes damage and harm to our country. This investigation and today's sentencing serve as a reminder that unauthorized disclosures of classified information is a crime, and will not be tolerated.”
In relation to one of the 12 times Frese orally transmitted Top Secret NDI to Journalist 1, in or about mid-April to early May 2018, Frese accessed an intelligence report unrelated to his job duties on multiple occasions, which contained NDI classified at the Top Secret//SCI level (Intelligence Report l). A week after Frese accessed Intelligence Report 1 for the second time, Frese received an April 27, 2018 Twitter Direct Message (DM) from Journalist 1 asking whether Frese would be willing to speak with Journalist 2. Frese stated that he was “down” to help Journalist 2 if it helped Journalist 1 “progress.” During the same April 27, 2018, Twitter exchange, Journalist 1 indicated that a certain United States military official told Journalist 2 that the official was not aware of the subject matter discussed in Intelligence Report 1. Frese characterized the official’s denial as “weird” and commented on the source of information contained within Intelligence Report 1.
Several days after the April 27, 2018, Twitter exchange, Frese searched on a classified United States government computer system for terms related to the topics contained in Intelligence Report 1. A few hours after searching for terms related to the topic of Intelligence Report l, Frese spoke by telephone with Journalist 1, and several hours later he spoke by telephone with Journalist 2. Immediately after the call with Journalist 2, Journalist 1 called Frese. During at least one of the calls with Journalist 1 and Journalist 2, Frese orally passed Top Secret NDI derived from Intelligence Report 1. Approximately 30 minutes after Frese spoke with the two journalists, Journalist 1 published an article (Article 1) which contained Top Secret NDI, orally communicated by Frese and derived from Intelligence Report 1 classified at the Top Secret//SCI level.
On at least 30 separate occasions in 2018, Frese conducted searches on classified government systems for information regarding the classified topics he discussed with Journalists 1 and 2. On multiple occasions in 2018 and 2019, Frese conducted searches on classified government systems because of specific requests for information from Journalists 1 and 2.
Additionally, between early 2018 and October 2019, Frese communicated with an employee of an overseas CT consulting group (Consultant 1) via social media. On at least two occasions, Frese transmitted classified NDI related to CT topics to Consultant 1, using a social media site’s direct messaging feature.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Neil Hammerstrom and Danya E. Atiyeh, and Trial Attorney Jennifer Kennedy Gellie of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:19-cr-304.
Former DIA Analyst Sentenced for Leaking Classified Information to JournalistsRead the Press Release
A former employee of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for leaking classified information to two journalists in 2018 and 2019.
“Frese repeatedly passed classified information to a reporter, sometimes in response to her requests, all for personal gain,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “When this information was published, it was shared with all of our nation's adversaries, creating a risk of exceptionally grave harm to the security of this country. His conviction and sentence demonstrate the Department’s commitment to the investigation and prosecution of such betrayals by clearance holders as part of our mandate to protect our citizens and defend the national security of the United States.”
“The American people expect those entrusted with our nation's most sensitive secrets to keep those secrets safe. Mr. Frese did just the opposite,” said Assistant Director Alan E. Kohler Jr. of the FBI's Counterintelligence Division. “The FBI is committed to protecting the national security interests of the United States and will vigorously pursue investigations into current and former clearance holders who leak classified information.”
“When our nation’s secrets are published, in print or online, those secrets are made available to all of our adversaries,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Frese’s choice to betray his oath to his country had real consequences and caused actual harm to the safety of this country and its citizens.”
“When Mr. Frese chose to provide classified information to members of the media, he violated his oath to serve the United States as a trusted government employee,” said Timothy R. Slater, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Washington Field Office. “Put in the hands of our adversaries, this information causes damage and harm to our country. This investigation and today's sentencing serve as a reminder that unauthorized disclosures of classified information is a crime, and will not be tolerated.”
According to court documents, Henry Kyle Frese, 31, of Alexandria, was employed by DIA as a counterterrorism analyst from February 2018 to October 2019, and held a Top Secret//Sensitive Compartmented Information security clearance. United States government agencies have confirmed that in the spring and summer of 2018, News Outlet 1 published eight articles, all authored by the same journalist (Journalist 1) that contained classified NDI that related to the capabilities of certain foreign countries’ weapons systems. These articles contained classified intelligence from five intelligence reports (the Compromised Intelligence Reports) made available to appropriately cleared recipients in the first half of 2018. The topic of all of these initial five Compromised Intelligence Reports – foreign countries’ weapons systems – was outside the scope of Frese’s job duties as an analyst covering CT topics. The media articles, and the intelligence reporting from which they were derived, both contained information that is classified up to the TS//SCI level, indicating that its unauthorized disclosure could reasonably be expected to result in exceptionally grave damage to the national security. The intelligence reporting was marked as such.
According to court documents, Frese and Journalist 1 lived together at the same residential address from January 2018 to November 2018. Throughout 2018 and 2019, Frese and Journalist 1 “followed” each other on Twitter, and on at least two occasions Frese re-Tweeted Journalist 1’s tweets announcing the publications of articles containing NDI classified at the Top Secret level.
In or about April of 2018, Journalist 1 introduced Frese to a second journalist (Journalist 2). Subsequently, Frese began texting and speaking with Journalist 2 by telephone. Between mid-2018 and late September 2019, Frese orally transmitted NDI classified at the Top Secret level to Journalist 1 on 12 separate occasions, and orally transmitted NDI classified at the Secret level to Journalist 1 on at least four occasions. Frese knew the information was classified at the Secret and Top Secret levels because the intelligence products from which he had learned the classified information had visible classification markings as to the classification level of the information, and the intelligence products accessed by Frese were stored on secure, classified government information systems.
In relation to one of the 12 times Frese orally transmitted Top Secret NDI to Journalist 1, in or about mid-April to early May 2018, Frese accessed an intelligence report unrelated to his job duties on multiple occasions, which contained NDI classified at the Top Secret//SCI level (Intelligence Report l). A week after Frese accessed Intelligence Report 1 for the second time, Frese received an April 27, 2018 Twitter Direct Message (DM) from Journalist 1 asking whether Frese would be willing to speak with Journalist 2. Frese stated that he was “down” to help Journalist 2 if it helped Journalist 1 “progress.” During the same April 27, 2018, Twitter exchange, Journalist 1 indicated that a certain United States military official told Journalist 2 that the official was not aware of the subject matter discussed in Intelligence Report 1. Frese characterized the official’s denial as “weird” and commented on the source of information contained within Intelligence Report 1.
Several days after the April 27, 2018, Twitter exchange, Frese searched on a classified United States government computer system for terms related to the topics contained in Intelligence Report 1. A few hours after searching for terms related to the topic of Intelligence Report l, Frese spoke by telephone with Journalist 1, and several hours later he spoke by telephone with Journalist 2. Immediately after the call with Journalist 2, Journalist 1 called Frese. During at least one of the calls with Journalist 1 and Journalist 2, Frese orally passed Top Secret NDI derived from Intelligence Report 1. Approximately 30 minutes after Frese spoke with the two journalists, Journalist 1 published an article (Article 1) which contained Top Secret NDI, orally communicated by Frese and derived from Intelligence Report 1 classified at the Top Secret//SCI level.
On at least 30 separate occasions in 2018, Frese conducted searches on classified government systems for information regarding the classified topics he discussed with Journalists 1 and 2. On multiple occasions in 2018 and 2019, Frese conducted searches on classified government systems because of specific requests for information from Journalists 1 and 2.
Additionally, between early 2018 and October 2019, Frese communicated with an employee of an overseas CT consulting group (Consultant 1) via social media. On at least two occasions, Frese transmitted classified NDI related to CT topics to Consultant 1, using a social media site’s direct messaging feature.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danya E. Atiyeh, Neil Hammerstrom and Trial Attorney Jennifer Gellie for the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section of the National Security Division prosecuted the case.
Former Cumru Township Police Lieutenant Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Timothy Woll, 54, of Sinking Spring, Pennsylvania, has pled guilty to child exploitation charges before United States District Court Judge Edward G. Smith.
Woll was charged by Information in March 2020 with transportation of child pornography and access with intent to view child pornography. The charges arise from the defendant’s intent to view and to transport images of child pornography from his personal, home computer onto his personal Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage account in January 2019. An investigation of the defendant’s computer led to the discovery that his OneDrive account contained nearly 200 unique images of child pornography. During the time of this investigation and Woll’s subsequent arrest, the defendant was employed as a police lieutenant and evidence custodian for the Cumru Township Police Department in Berks County.
“This is an appalling case,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “The defendant was a member of a law enforcement organization charged with enforcing the law and protecting the public, but instead he chose to break the law and acquire child pornography. We stand ready with our federal and local partners to identify and prosecute all those who would prey upon minor children, no matter who they are.”
“The FBI works every day to track down those who seek out child pornography, because the demand for these depraved images leads to the continued sexual exploitation of young children,” said Michael J. Driscoll, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “The fact that a fellow law enforcement officer was involved with such material was extraordinarily disheartening to all of us. We and our partners will never stop working to save kids from physical and emotional harm.”
Woll faces a five year mandatory minimum term of imprisonment and a statutory maximum sentence of 40 years, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $500,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Berks County District Attorney’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly Harrell.
Former Achille Mayor Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Firearms Stolen from Police Department Evidence RoomRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that David Shane Northcutt, age 42, of Achille, Oklahoma was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment, and 2 years of supervised release for Possession of Stolen Firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(j) and 924(a)(2). The charges arose from an investigation by the Achille Police Department, the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
The Indictment alleged that on or about March 5, 2019, the defendant knowingly possessed firearms which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce, knowing and having reasonable cause to believe the firearms were stolen.
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. First Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Wilson represented the United States at the sentencing hearing.
Felon Sentenced to 57 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
St. Louis, Missouri –United States District Judge Ronnie L. White sentenced Leavie Morris, 30, of St. Louis, to 57 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to the plea agreement, on August 24, 2019, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officers received a radio assignment regarding an armed man with a black shoulder bag, who was firing shots in the area of 11th Street and Salisbury in the City of St. Louis. When officers arrived in the area, they saw Morris in a nearby Phillip 66 parking lot with a black shoulder bag.
When officers asked Morris to show his hands, he turned away from the officers and fled. An officer pursued him. Morris continued to ignore multiple commands from the officer. Eventually, the officer tased Morris but he continued fleeing and resisting. When Morris finally fell to the ground, he again continued resisting and reaching toward his bag. After handcuffing Morris, officers recovered a .40 caliber Glock 23 Gen 4 semi-automatic pistol with an extended twenty-two round magazine from the black shoulder bag. There was a round in the chamber of the pistol. The extended magazine was also loaded.
At the time defendant possessed the aforementioned firearm, he knew he had been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year.
This case was investigated by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.
Federal Complaint Filed Against Austin Man for Multi-Million Dollar Fraud Scheme Related to the SBA Paycheck Protection Program During COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
In Austin today, federal authorities arrested Michael George McQuarn, 51 of Austin, for allegedly defrauding the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program of more than $2 million.
U.S. Attorney John F. Bash; SBA Office of Inspector General (SBA OIG) Central Region Special Agent in Charge Donald Abram; Acting IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Special Agent in Charge Rodrick Benton, Houston Field Office; Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration Office of Investigations (TIGTA) Special Agent in Charge Gary L. Smith, Mid-States Field Division; Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG) Special Agent in Charge Laurie L. Younger, Dallas; and, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton made today’s announcement.
This year, Congress has authorized over $600 billion in emergency financial assistance to millions of Americans suffering economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. A portion of those funds included forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses (payroll, rent, utilities, mortgage payments, etc.) through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). In order to receive funding, businesses must submit an application along with supporting documentation which must be approved by the SBA.
A criminal complaint unsealed this morning charges McQuarn with wire fraud and making false statements to the SBA. The complaint alleges that beginning in April 2020, McQuarn implemented a scheme whereby he submitted fraudulent applications and supporting paperwork of two fictitious companies he created—Vantastic Voyages, LLC and Happy Days Movers, LLC—to secure SBA-backed PPP loans. McQuarn claimed the funds were for legitimate business purposes when, in fact, the money was used for his own personal use, including purchasing a 26’ Pavati Wake Boat and a Rolls Royce. The complaint further alleges that McQuarn fraudulently received in excess of $2 million in PPP funds.
“The Paycheck Protection Program was designed to help Americans struggling with financial hardship during the pandemic. Our office will be aggressive in targeting anyone who defrauds this critical program,” stated U.S. Attorney Bash.
“The defendant egregiously sought personal gain from a program intended to assist hardworking Americans in this challenging time,” said SBA OIG Central Region Special Agent in Charge Abram. “SBA OIG and its law enforcement partners will aggressively pursue allegations of wrongdoing to maintain the integrity of SBA’s programs. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and pursuit of justice.”
“We are pleased to join our law enforcement partners in pursuit of those individuals using the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to defraud the nation’s financial institutions and government relief programs,” stated FDIC-OIG Special Agent in Charge Younger.
Upon conviction, McQuarn faces terms of imprisonment up to 20 years for wire fraud and up to five years for making false statements to the SBA.
SBA OIG, IRS-CI, FDIC-OIG, TIGTA and the Texas Attorney General’s Office are conducting this ongoing investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Devlin, Michael Galdo and Robert Almonte are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
If anyone believes that they or their family are the victims of a scam or attempted fraud involving stimulus payments related to COVID-19 fraud, they can report it without leaving their home. Please contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or by email at [email protected]. If it is a cyber scam, they may also submit a complaint at www.ic3.gov.
It is important to note that a criminal complaint is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Fayetteville Man Pleads Guilty to Obtaining VA Benefits through FraudRead the Press Release
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Matthew G.T. Martin, United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina, announced today that WILLIE DOSHER CAIN pleaded guilty to a felony count of theft of government funds related to healthcare fraud.
CAIN, age 73, of Fayetteville, N.C., pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Judge Thomas D. Schroeder in federal court in Winston-Salem, to one count of theft of government funds, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 641. CAIN also agreed to the forfeiture of $155,041.30, a condominium located in Carolina Beach, a Toyota Sienna van, and a mobility scooter.
According to documents filed with the court, CAIN, a US Army and Fayetteville Police Department veteran, represented to the VA that as a result of shrapnel wounds sustained in Vietnam in 1965, he had suffered the loss of use of both legs, as well as loss of bowel and bladder control, that he was unable to perform daily activities such as dressing and bathing without assistance, and that he was dependent on a wheelchair or motorized scooter for mobility. Filed documents further state, however, that CAIN in fact maintained an active lifestyle throughout this time, including working as a firearms and concealed carry instructor, enjoying beach activities, playing basketball, dancing, and attending social events. He also bought a condominium at Carolina Beach on the third floor of a building which had no elevator. The investigation revealed that as a result of his false claims, CAIN received hundreds of thousands of dollars of VA benefits to which he was not entitled, in the form of direct payments for aid and attendance, modifications to his home, and the purchase and adaptation of vehicles.
The defendant faces a maximum penalty of ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, or both, and a term of supervised release of not more than three years. Sentencing will occur in Winston-Salem on September 29, 2020 at 09:30am.
The case was investigated by the Veterans Affairs – Office of the Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Frank J. Chut, Jr. and Meredith Ruggles.
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FBI Agent Honored for Nearly Two Decades of Protecting ChildrenRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Tim Garrison, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, presented the annual Crystal Kipper & Ali Kemp Memorial Award to FBI Special Agent Mike Daniels.
The award, which is usually presented during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in April, was delayed this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Garrison presented the award to Daniels yesterday during a ceremony at the FBI regional headquarters in Kansas City.
In presenting the award, Garrison noted the theme for the 2020 Crime Victims’ Rights week was Seek Justice – Ensure Victims’ Rights – Inspire Hope. “In his time investigating crimes against children,” Garrison said, “Mike has exemplified these ideals.”
Daniels began his career with the FBI 20 years ago, and for the past 17-plus years has investigated cases of violent crimes against children.“Mike is committed to protecting children,” Garrison said. “Not only has he identified and arrested numerous perpetrators, but Mike has been successful in identifying and locating victims. Although Mike has an affable, calm demeanor, when there is a child in our community that is in danger, Mike kicks into high gear and focuses on stopping the exploitation and working to achieve justice for these vulnerable members of society.”
Among the cases successfully investigated by Daniels, defendant Conner Michael Webb was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to producing child pornography of a 2-year-old victim. Another defendant, Cory Stahl, sponsored a 9-year-old victim through a local mentoring service. Stahl sexually assaulted the child victim and manufactured 740 pornographic images, which he distributed over the internet. Stahl was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to producing child pornography.
“The Assistant U.S. Attorneys in our office who have worked closely with Mike over the years, know he is willing to do what it takes to achieve justice – including working long hours, appearing in court on short notice, and empathetically engaging with victims,” said Garrison. “We appreciate all the work Mike has done to successfully prosecute cases in our district.”
The Crystal Kipper & Ali Kemp Memorial Award
This is the 17th year for the award to be presented in memory of Crystal Kipper and Ali Kemp, two young women who were both fatal victims of tragic crimes. Crystal Kipper was an 18-year-old Gladstone, Mo., resident who was murdered after her car broke down on Interstate 29, just north of Platte City, on Feb. 24, 1997. Ali Kemp was a 19-year-old Blue Valley North High School graduate who was murdered on June 18, 2002, while she worked at the Foxborough neighborhood swimming pool in Leawood, Kan.
The Crystal Kipper & Ali Kemp Memorial Award is presented by the U.S. Attorney’s Office each year to recognize the outstanding work of an individual or organization in recognition of a valued contribution to preventing and responding to the exploitation of children.
Ex-tribal police officer sentenced for abusing child Fort Peck Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS– A Wolf Point man and former tribal police officer who admitted touching a child’s genitals on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation was sentenced today to time served of 324 days in custody and two years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Mychal Thomas Damon, 28, pleaded guilty in February to felony child abuse.
U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The prosecution said in court records that the crime occurred in May 2018 when the victim, who was under the age of 14, and her mother spent the night at Damon’s house. During the night, the victim got up and sat with Damon on a recliner. Damon placed his hand inside the girl’s shorts and touched her in the genital area.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cassady Adams and Lori Suek prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and the Wolf Point Police Department.
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Enrolled member of Zuni Pueblo sentenced to 85 months in federal prison for kidnappingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Adrianne Cellicion, 44, of Zuni, New Mexico was sentenced in federal court in Santa Fe on June 16 to 85 months in prison for kidnapping and carjacking in Indian Country. Cellicion is an enrolled member of Zuni Pueblo.
A jury convicted Cellicion of these offenses crimes on June 5, 2019. According to evidence introduced at trial, Cellicion and two co-defendants Preston John, 25, of Gallup, New Mexico and Brando Largo, 28, of Crownpoint, New Mexico were traveling as passengers in an vehicle driven by the victim. They ordered the victim to an area behind a building where Largo put a chain around the victim’s neck and choked the victim. Cellicion then taped the victim’s hands together. They blindfolded the victim and restrained the victim’s hands and legs. John held the victim’s neck and took the victim’s cell phone. They also tied the victim to a nearby tree with John’s belt before fleeing the scene with all his belongings. The victim eventually escaped from the restraints, hitchhiked back to Gallup and reported the incident to law enforcement. Cellicion was later arrested at a motel nearby.
John pleaded guilty to kidnapping on July 5, 2019. He is serving a sentence of five years in prison. Largo pleaded guilty to kidnapping on July 9, 2019. He is serving a sentence of 84 months in prison.
The Gallup office of the FBI investigated the case with assistance from the Gallup Police Department and Navajo Nation Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Murphy and Frederick Mendenhall prosecuted the case.
Eleven Charged with Federal Gun Law ViolationsRead the Press Release
Law enforcement agencies in the Cedar Rapids area continue to make communities safer by partnering to reduce gun related crimes and violence. United States Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr. announced charges and arrests in eleven federal gun cases within the last 30 days.
“COVID 19 has not affected federal, state and local law enforcement’s unwavering commitment to investigating and prosecuting offenses involving firearms,” said United States Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr. “Convicted felons, drug users, and those who have committed domestic violence are legally barred from possessing guns or ammunition. Those that do will be held accountable.”
“The Cedar Rapids Police Department appreciates the continued partnership with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa as we are both concerned about violent crime,” said Cedar Rapids Chief of Police Wayne Jerman. “Our community is safer today because of the commitment of the U.S. Attorney to prosecute crimes involving the use or possession of illegal drugs and firearms. In some cases, convicted felons, who are not allowed to lawfully possess a gun, are accused of further crimes committed while in possession of a firearm. This is particularly concerning and the reason that we value the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in helping us hold individuals accountable.”
Special Agent in Charge Kristi Johnson of the FBI noted, “These charges and arrests prove our partnerships with local law enforcement and the communities we serve are crucial to the mission against gun violence.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge of the Kansas City Field Division Marino Vidoli said, “As these cases show, ATF and our law enforcement partners in the Cedar Rapids area are absolutely committed to finding those who use firearms to threaten or inflict harm on members of our community, and bringing them to justice.”
The work of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies has resulted in the following charges in federal court in Cedar Rapids in the last month:
Trever Carl Christopherson, age 31, Rhamond Bolden, age 26, Thomas Anthony Wallace, age 33, Jerell Jackson, age 23, Tony Rhen Brown, age 59, Daniel James Abbott, age 48, and Henry Wilke Eilders, age 42, all of the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, area, have been charged with various violations of federal law including being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. The charges are contained in complaints and indictments filed within the last 30 days in United States District Court in Cedar Rapids. Four additional defendants, whose charges remain under seal, have also been charged with violating federal firearm laws.
The indictment against Abbott alleges that in September and October of 2019, he possessed multiple firearms while being an unlawful user of methamphetamine. The indictment also alleges that two firearms seized in September of 2019 were possessed by Abbott in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, specifically possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. An additional four guns were seized as part of this investigation in March 2020. The case file is 20-CR-32.
The indictment against Eilders alleges that in March 2020, Eilders possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, specifically conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine and or 50 grams or more of pure methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine. This case is part of a larger drug-trafficking investigation, wherein investigators seized a gun from Eilder’s co-defendant, George Ashby, age 60, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Ashby is facing drug and gun charges as well. The case file is 20-CR-00027.
The indictments filed against Christopherson and Jackson allege that each possessed a firearm while being an unlawful user of a controlled substance. Christopherson is alleged to have been a methamphetamine user while possessing a firearm. Jackson is alleged to have been a marijuana user while possessing a firearm.
The indictment filed against Bolden alleges that he possessed a firearm as a felon. Bolden is a felon based on a prior federal conviction for being a drug user in possession of a firearm.
The indictment filed against Wallace alleges that he possessed a firearm while being an unlawful user of marijuana and after having two prior convictions for domestic abuse.
The indictment filed against Brown alleges that he possessed two firearms while being an unlawful user of heroin and after having previously been convicted of two felonies. Brown has also been charged with conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of substance containing methamphetamine.
If convicted on these charges, all defendants face at least a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, $100 in special assessments, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.
As with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and each defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The cases were 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.
These cases were investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department, the Marion Police Department, the Hiawatha Police Department, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
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Eighteen People Charged in Connection with Drug Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
CAMDEN, N.J. – Eighteen people have been charged for their alleged roles in a drug trafficking organization that distributed fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine in Camden, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced today.
Eleven defendants were arrested today and are expected to appear June 19, 2020, by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen M. Williams: Angel Rodriguez, 30; Manuel Bonilla, 35; Anderlis Martinez-Espinal, 19; Miguel Rodriguez, 27, Julio Medina, 29; Janet Lorenzo, 47; Normali Santiago, 36; Ray Santos, 35, all of Camden; Franklin Lorenzo-Gonzalez, 25, of Pennsauken, New Jersey; Bernardo Carambot, 36, and Alberto Perez, 26, both of Philadelphia.
Juan Cabrera, 30; Jabriel Rosa, 38; Hector Lopez, 31; Brian Smith, 33; Hector Mendez, 36; Pedro Yera, 25; Christian Rosario, 25; all of Camden, remain at large.
Each defendant is charged by complaint with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine.
According to the documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From at least 2018, the defendants have all allegedly been members of a drug trafficking organization that dealt fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine in 300-400 blocks of Beckett Street, the 400 block of Royden Street, and the 600 block of Pine Street in Camden, where they distributed drugs to customers on foot and in vehicles. The organization also supplied drugs to customers and other distributors elsewhere, including areas in Philadelphia, Paulsboro, New Jersey, and Martinsburg, West Virginia.
Angel Rodriguez, Manuel Bonilla, Juan Cabrera, and Franklin Lorenzo-Gonzalez are the alleged leaders and managers, who obtained bulk supplies of narcotics, prepared and packaged those narcotics for street level sales, provided fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine for resale to customers, collected drug proceeds, operated multiple stash locations, and oversaw the daily sales and operation of the organization. Other members of the organization assisted in managing the sales on the street. High-level members of the drug trafficking organization laundered drug proceeds through bulk vehicle purchases and real estate.
The conspiracy charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 30 years in prison and a maximum potential penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine.
U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI’s South Jersey Violent Offender and Gang Task Force, South Jersey Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia, Michael Driscoll in Philadelphia; special agents of the FBI’s Eastern Panhandle Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge of FBI Pittsburgh, Michael Christman in Pittsburgh; the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan; the Camden County Police Department, under the direction of Chief Joseph D. Wysocki; the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Jill S. Mayer; the Camden County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff Gilbert L. Wilson; special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jason Molina, Newark Division; special agents of FBI Newark, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Douglas Korneski; special agents of FBI New York, Criminal Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jacqueline Maguire; the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Christine Hoffman; the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, under the direction of Attorney General Josh Shapiro; the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, under the direction of Director Jared M. Maples; and special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation in Newark, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Montanez, with the investigation leading to the charges announced today.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alisa Shver of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Camden.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaints are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Detroit Man Sentenced for His Role in Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Detroit, Michigan man was sentenced to 12 months in prison and three years of supervised release for his role in a federal drug conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Tevin Robinson, 26, previously admitted that in April 2017 he came to Huntington with the intent to distribute oxycodone and Xanax. Officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle in which Robinson was a passenger on Interstate 64. Officers located more than 200 oxycodone pills and 53 Xanax pills.
“Far too many Detroit drug dealers have flooded Huntington and Charleston with opioids and other addictive and dangerous drugs. I have been laser focused on holding out of state drug peddlers accountable for the harm they have caused in our communities.” United States Attorney Mike Stuart said.
The investigation was conducted by the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
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