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15 June 2020
On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, U.S. Attorney Urges Seniors to Report Fraud to the National Elder Fraud HotlineRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Today, U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice (DOJ) in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the DOJ is also urging senior citizens to be aware of scams targeting the elderly, like fake COVID-19 testing kits and stimulus check fraud.
“It’s atrocious that fraudsters are preying on our elderly citizens at a time when so many have been isolated from family and friends due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Let me be clear that we will prosecute these criminals to the fullest extent allowed by law,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. “I urge all senior citizens who suspect they have been a victim of fraud to call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11. It’s important to report these crimes, so law enforcement can stop fraudsters from harming more people.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. Earlier this year, Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
National Elder Fraud Hotline: Earlier this year, Attorney General Barr launched the National Elder Fraud Hotline 1-833-FRAUD-11. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice. 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.
Office for Victims of Crime Awards Nearly $2 Million to Respond to Elder FraudRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice announced that the Office of Justice Programs’ Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) has awarded nearly $2 million for law enforcement training and technical assistance to improve the identification of elder fraud victims and connect victims to available resources. The department makes this announcement as communities around the world commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
“America’s seniors lose billions of dollars every year to fraud and financial scams, in many cases watching helplessly as their entire life savings disappear before their eyes,” said Office of Justice Programs (OJP) Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are fully committed to helping our law enforcement partners better recognize and combat these reprehensible crimes, bring the perpetrators to justice and begin to repair the damage and restore victims.”
The National White Collar Crime Center will receive $1,940,738 to work with the International Association of Chiefs of Police to identify current training, tools and practices being used to address elder fraud. The project will specifically study current resources available and responses to elder fraud in a rural and an urban jurisdiction in two of the Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force districts and will develop and deliver trainings for law enforcement to improve the response to elder fraud tailored to the particular needs of different types of jurisdictions. The trainings will be tested, evaluated, and revised as needed and then made available to rural and urban law enforcement agencies nationwide. The Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force brings together the resources and expertise of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for six federal districts, the FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and other law enforcement personnel.
To further combat elder fraud and prevent harm to vulnerable victims, on March 3, 2020, the Justice Department launched the National Elder Fraud Hotline, managed by the OVC, providing services to all adults ages 60 and older who may be victims of financial fraud. Case managers on the hotline assess the needs of the callers and provide information to help them report fraud or may connect them directly with the appropriate agency. Since its inception, the National Elder Abuse Hotline has received more than 1,724 calls.
“Financial fraud is the most common form of abuse suffered by seniors in our country, affecting about one in 10 older Americans,” said OVC Director Jessica Hart. “I am confident that our investment in this effort, and our collaboration with these organizations, will lead to better identification of the victims of these deplorable crimes and greater justice for those victims.”
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was launched by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations. Its purpose is to raise awareness of the cultural, social, economic, and demographic processes affecting the abuse and neglect of older persons in communities around the world.
For more information on how OVC responds to the right and needs of older victims of elder abuse and financial exploitation, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice/mdt.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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.
Norris Man Sentenced for Domestic Assault by Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Norris, South Dakota, man convicted of Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on June 15, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Alvin Bear Heels, Jr., age 45, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Bear Heels was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 9, 2020. He pled guilty on March 26, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on February 20, 2020, wherein Bear Heels assaulted his daughter at their home in Norris, by brandishing a knife at her. At the time of this incident, Bear Heels had two prior convictions in Rosebud Sioux Tribal Court for Domestic Abuse, and a prior conviction in U.S. District Court for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon against his spouse.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Bear Heels was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Newark Man Charged with Drug Trafficking in Newark’s Pilgrim Baptist Village Housing ComplexRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Newark man who was indicted in connection with his role in the distribution of heroin – some of which contained fentanyl – and cocaine base (crack) in an affordable housing complex and a nearby senior living community in Newark will make his initial court appearance today, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Elijah Kane, a/k/a “Bang,” a/k/a “G5,” 28, and his brother Joshua Kane, a/k/a “WildOut,” 24, were indicted by a federal grand jury on May 29, 2020, on charges of conspiring to distribute cocaine base, possession of heroin and cocaine base with intent to distribute, and maintaining a drug-involved premises. Elijah Kane is scheduled to appear by videoconference today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Edward S. Kiel. Joshua Kane was arraigned on the indictment before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton on June 10, 2020. Elijah and Joshua Kane were both charged previously by criminal complaint.
Four other members and conspirators have been charged by complaint with one count each of conspiring to distribute cocaine base: Ahmad Beyah, a/k/a “Goon,” 18, Sherrod Richardson, a/k/a “Drama,” 19; Yusef Ellis, a/k/a “Tweeze,” 39; and Reuben Howard, a/k/a “Ahmeer,” 38, all of Newark. Richardson is also charged with possession of heroin and cocaine base on Dec. 5, 2019, with intent to distribute. Beyah is also charged with possession of heroin and cocaine base on Mar. 4, 2020, with intent to distribute. Richardson, Ellis, and Howard appeared on April 9, 2020, by telephone conference before U.S. Magistrate Judge James B. Clark III. Beyah appeared on April 16, 2020, by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge Leda Dunn Wettre.
According to the documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
The charges and arrests resulted from an investigation by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with numerous federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. Pilgrim Baptist Village Housing Complex, Site II (Pilgrim Village), is a privately owned, affordable housing complex in the vicinity of Avon and Jelliff avenues in Newark. It consists of 46 buildings, each with four units, which are accessible via exterior entrances as well as an interior stairwell leading from each apartment to a common hallway that connects multiple buildings and semi-subterranean garages for those buildings. The buildings are clustered around internal courtyards and pedestrian walkways, and the complex is accessible on foot from Avon Avenue or Jelliff Avenue and by car from one of four driveways leading to the semi-subterranean garages. Because its location and layout make it difficult for law enforcement to surveil, Pilgrim Village is the site of an open-air illegal drug market. Since at least November 2018, law enforcement has been investigating the organization that controls this market.
Through numerous controlled purchases of narcotics, consensually recorded telephone calls and text messages, physical and electronic surveillance, and analysis of telephone call detail records, law enforcement officials determined that the defendants distributed and conspired to distribute heroin and cocaine base in and around Pilgrim Village from at least June 2019 through April 2020.
The counts of conspiracy to distribute at least 28 grams of cocaine base each carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison, and a fine of at least $5 million. The counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine base each carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $1 million. The counts of maintaining a drug-involved premises each carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $500,000.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents and task force officers of ATF, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Charlie J. Patterson in Newark; and members of the Newark Department of Public Safety, under the direction of Director Anthony F. Ambrose, with the investigation leading to the charges.
He also thanked the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson; the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Douglas Korneski; the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II; the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Armando B. Fontoura; and the U.S. Marshals Service, under the direction of Marshal Juan Mattos Jr. He also thanked the Belleville Police Department; the Nutley Police Department; the Bloomfield Police Department; the Verona Police Department; and the Orange Police Department for their assistance with this case.
The case was investigated as part of the Violent Crime Initiative (VCI). The VCI was formed in August 2017 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, and the City of Newark’s Department of Public Safety for the purpose of combatting violent crime in and around Newark. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate and pool resources to prosecute violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, the DEA, the U.S. Marshals, the Newark Department of Public Safety, the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, N.J. State Parole, Union County Jail, N.J. State Police Regional Operations and Intelligence Center/Real Time Crime Center, N.J. Department of Corrections, the East Orange Police Department, and the Irvington Police Department.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Angelica M. Sinopole of the Organized Crime & Gangs Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark.
The charges and allegations against the defendants are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New Orleans Hotel Owner Charged with Conspiracy to Defraud First NBC BankRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – The United States Attorney’s Office announced that ARVIND “MIKE” VIRA (“VIRA”), age 74, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged today with conspiracy to defraud First NBC Bank, the New Orleans-based bank that failed in April 2017.
According to the Bill of Information, from in or around April 2010 through April 2017, VIRA had a banking relationship with First NBC Bank, individually and through his companies. During that time, Bank President A acted as VIRA’S de facto loan officer and ensured that VIRA received beneficial interest rates on savings accounts, checking accounts, and loans. In return, VIRA agreed to make loans to Bank President A. VIRA agreed to keep these loans to Bank President A concealed from employees of First NBC Bank at the direction of Bank President A. Bank President A likewise concealed this relationship from others at First NBC Bank and from Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) examiners.
The Bill of Information also alleges that, at the direction of Bank President A, VIRA inflated his own assets on financial statements that he submitted to First NBC Bank in support of his loans. As a result, VIRA and Bank President A were able to defraud First NBC Bank by using nominee loans to funnel money to Bank President A without bank or regulatory scrutiny.
VIRA is charged in the Bill of Information with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1344. The maximum penalties that may be imposed upon conviction are five years in prison, a $250,000.00 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office stated that a Bill of Information is merely an accusation and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Office of Inspector General; and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sharan E. Lieberman, Matthew R. Payne, Nicholas D. Moses, and J. Ryan McLaren are in charge of the prosecution.
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NKC Woman Sentenced for Repeatedly Embezzling from Her EmployersRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A North Kansas City, Missouri, woman was sentenced in federal court today for embezzling from her employer in what was her fourth scheme to steal from a local company.
Tonya A. Topel, 42, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to two years and nine months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Topel to pay $142,606 in restitution. Today’s sentence must run consecutively to Topel’s eight-year sentence imposed on April 16, 2018.
On Jan. 21, 2020, Topel pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Topel admitted that she embezzled $116,367 from her employer, SunSource Homes.
SunSource Homes Fraud
After pleading guilty to embezzling from two local companies, according to court documents, Topel was hired by SunSource. She immediately abused her position of trust as the office manager and accountant in order to unjustly enrich herself yet again. Topel began working for SunSource as the office manager and accountant in October 2016. She started stealing from them a month later, and continued to embezzle from SunSource while she awaited sentencing for her conviction in another federal case in which she embezzled from another employer, Construction Benefits Audit Corporation (CBAC).
Topel made unauthorized purchases on company credit cards, totaling $47,665. She issued unauthorized checks to herself using one of the owner’s signature stamps, totaling $40,955. She claimed fraudulent expense reimbursements, totaling $19,713, which she added to her legitimate paychecks. Topel created $5,287 in unauthorized paychecks to herself and cashed an unauthorized check from SunSource for $2,745.
Topel used the money she embezzled from SunSource to travel to the Bahamas, Boston, Florida, and Arizona. She paid for retail purchases, restaurants, vehicles, and overdraft fees. She paid the attorney representing her in the prior federal case for embezzling from CBAC. She also presented a $20,000 check, which she fraudulently obtained from SunSource, to pay restitution in that earlier scheme to defraud CBAC. This caused management at SunSource to examine their accounting and books and discover Topel’s other thefts from their company.
Preferred Contracting Systems Fraud
Topel’s first fraud scheme occurred from October 2011 to January 2012, while Topel worked at Preferred Contracting Systems in Leawood, Kansas. In the course of those few months, she stole more than $24,000 from her employer. She was charged with five felony counts in April 2012 in Johnson County, Kansas.
Construction Benefits Audit Corporation Fraud
Topel’s second fraud scheme began she was hired as a senior auditor for CBAC, a non-profit corporation in Kansas City, Missouri, a few months later, on June 11, 2012. Topel began stealing from CBAC soon thereafter, starting on Oct. 18, 2012, while her criminal case was still pending in Kansas. She paid her criminal defense lawyer using CBAC’s credit card on Dec. 4, 2012, and she paid her restitution in Kansas on March 6, 2014, using a combination of legitimate and stolen money. She was then discharged early from probation in Kansas.
Topel continued to embezzle from CBAC, using five separate fraud schemes until she was caught in May 2016. Over the almost four years she embezzled from CBAC, Topel caused a loss of $295,677. After her embezzlement was discovered, Topel claimed she stole the money to pay for cancer treatments. In fact, Topel spent the money she embezzled on travel to the Bahamas, Hawaii, Dallas, and Boston; restaurants; entertainment such as Royals and Chiefs tickets, golf, and spas; a 2014 Ford Mustang, which she put in her daughter’s name after being caught in 2016; jewelry; and other personal spending such as clothing, dance classes, iPads, etc. Topel’s financial records showed no payments for medical treatments of any kind. Topel pleaded guilty on Sept. 18, 2017, to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft and was later sentenced to eight years in federal prison without parole.
U.S. Real Estate Equity Builder Fraud
Topel’s third fraud scheme occurred in between working for CBAC and SunSource. Topel worked at U.S. Real Estate Equity Builder (USREEB) from July 11, 2016, to Oct. 7, 2016. Topel has not been criminally charged for that fraud scheme. At today’s sentencing hearing for the SunSource fraud conviction, the court found by a preponderance of evidence that Topel’s $26,238 theft from USREEB constitutes relevant conduct in determining today’s sentence.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen D. Mahoney. It was investigated by the FBI.
Morehead Man Sentenced to 144 Months for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. - A Morehead, Kentucky man, Ranger Lacy, 43, was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison on Monday, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, for distribution of child pornography.
In his guilty plea agreement, Lacy admitted that, between November 2, 2012 and December 19, 2012, he made sexually explicit images of minors available for sharing and the images were shared with other users. A subsequent search of Lacy’s laptop and computer equipment uncovered more than 10,000 images depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Lacy also admitted that his computer had been set up to share files through a sharing network.
Lacy pleaded guilty in November 2019.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Division; and Rodney Brewer, Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, jointly made the announcement.
The investigation was directed by the FBI and Kentucky Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wade Napier.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Mid-State Securities Broker Charged with Stealing from Elderly ClientsRead the Press Release
NASHVILLE, Tenn – June 15, 2020 – A former Investments Vice President at Raymond James & Associates, Inc. (Raymond James), has been charged with stealing $933,500 from two elderly clients, announced U.S. Attorney Don Cochran for the Middle District of Tennessee.
A criminal Information charged Fredrick M. Stow, 65, of Franklin, Tennessee, with securities fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. In a separate action, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Friday filed a civil action against Stow, alleging violations of the antifraud provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
“The conduct alleged here is detestable,” said U.S. Attorney Cochran. “Protecting our senior citizens from fraudsters like this is one of our highest priorities. Today marks the 15th annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and now more than ever, we remain steadfast in condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation and remain committed to preventing and prosecuting fraud on America’s seniors.”
According to the charging documents, beginning in 1982, Stow acted as the registered representative for three brokerage accounts owned by a client who was a retired airline pilot and WWII era veteran. Stow changed firms numerous times and the client elected to move his accounts with Stow each time, ultimately transferring his accounts to Raymond James when Stow joined the firm in 2013. Over time, Stow inserted himself into the personal and financial affairs of this client and in the later years of the client’s life, he frequently visited him at his home, where he lived alone but received full-time nursing care.
In October 2015, Stow began misappropriating funds from this client’s IRA account by forging wire transfer letters of authorization to permit transfers from the client’s IRA account to a SunTrust Bank account that Stow owned jointly with his wife. Stow also began selling securities in the client’s IRA account and transferring the proceeds to Stow’s own bank account.
At the time of this client’s death at the age of 98 in March 2018, Stow had made 74 unauthorized transfers and had stolen more than $900,000 from him. The charging documents also allege that within weeks of this client’s death, Stow stole $32,000 from another elderly brokerage customer, by transferring money from the customer’s brokerage account to another SunTrust bank account that Stow owned.
If convicted, Stow faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $5 million. The government also seeks a monetary judgment and the forfeiture of any property derived from the proceeds of the criminal conduct.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the SEC. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Toussaint is prosecuting the case.
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Meridian Man Sentenced to Almost Two Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Corey Douglas Burt, 28, of Meridian, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to 21 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Kurt Thielhorn, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Burt was also ordered to pay a $1,500.00 fine.
On April 18, 2019, the Meridian Police Department was called to a motel located on South Frontage Road in Meridian. An officer responded to the scene and learned that motel staff were attempting to clean a room, but the door was locked and the person inside the room would not answer the door despite insistent knocking and verbal requests. The MPD officer was eventually able to get the occupant, Corey Burt, to answer the door.
Burt, who is member of the Latin Kings criminal street gang, was not the guest registered in the room and he was unable or unwilling to tell the officer how he had gained access to the room or who had rented the room. There was no one else in the room. The officer noticed a .380 caliber pistol on a bedside table as he was checking the room. Burt told the officer that he had gotten the gun from a friend. A check of the firearm revealed that it was reported stolen in 2017. Further investigation revealed that Burt had a prior conviction for burglary in Lauderdale County and was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
On July 24, 2019, Burt was indicted by a federal grand jury for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He pled guilty before Judge Jordan on November 7, 2019.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham.
Member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe pleads guilty to federal assault charge in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Edmond Andrew Yahnahki Shanta, 22, of Mescalero, New Mexico pleaded guilty in federal court in Las Cruces on June 4 to assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country.
According to his plea agreement, Shanta assaulted the victim on July 13, 2019 in Otero County, New Mexico within the boundaries of the Mescalero Apache Reservation. Shanta struck the victim in the face with a rock causing a deep cut and several fractures. The victim was transported to a hospital where the victim needed surgery and four days of medical care for the victim’s injuries. Shanta is an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe.
Shanta is currently in custody pending sentencing. He faces three years in prison under the terms of his plea agreement.
The FBI investigated this case. Assistant U.S Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Marvin Smith Pleads Not Guilty to Postal TheftRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that Marvin Smith, 57, a former resident of Whitingham who now lives in Florida, pleaded not guilty today in United States District Court in Burlington to charges that he stole money from the U.S. Postal Service. U.S. Magistrate Judge John M. Conroy released Smith on conditions pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
In March, the government filed an information charging Smith with two counts of misdemeanor theft of government property. The first count charges that between 2012 and 2017, Smith defrauded the Postal Service of $1000 or less by submitting falsified travel reimbursement claims in connection with his official business. The second count alleges that between 2016 and 2019, Smith stole money from his cash register drawer at the Brattleboro Post Office.
The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charges in the information are merely accusations and that Smith is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty.
If convicted, Smith faces up to one year of imprisonment and a fine of up to $100,000. The actual sentence would be determined with reference to federal sentencing guidelines.
This case was investigated by the Inspector General’s Office of the Postal Service.
Smith is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Elizabeth Quinn. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Waples.
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.
Marion Man Who Stole over $100,000 from his Grandmother Sentenced to Federal prisonRead the Press Release
A man who drained his grandmother’s checking account, living trust account, and money market savings account of $118,107.80 was sentenced today to 21 months in prison.
Andrew Garrett, age 32, from Marion, Iowa, received the prison term after a January 10, 2020 guilty plea to a one count charging him with wire fraud.
In a plea agreement, Garrett admitted his grandmother was unable to care for herself due to memory issues including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Garrett used a debit card belonging to his grandmother to spend her funds for his personal benefit. Garrett concealed his scheme to defraud by claiming the expenses were related to repairs at his grandmother’s condominium.
Garrett was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Garrett was sentenced to 21 months’ imprisonment and ordered to repay 118,107.80 in restitution. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Garrett was released on the bond previously set and is to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on a date yet to be set.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew J. Cole and investigated by the Marion Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 20-CR-2-CJW
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Man from Porcupine Sentenced for Assault on Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Porcupine, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault on a Federal Officer was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Frank Yellow Boy, age 43, was sentenced on June 9, 2020, to 6 months in federal prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Yellow Boy was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2019. The charge related to Yellow Boy physically resisting and punching an Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety officer after being arrested on March 24, 2019, at Porcupine. The assault resulted in the officer’s glasses being knocked from his face and his nose, and mouth being bloodied.
This case was investigated by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Yellow Boy was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
MSC Gayane Crew Member Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Trafficking Stemming from One of the Largest Drug Seizures in U.S. HistoryRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Vladimir Penda, 27, of the country of Montenegro, entered a plea of guilty before United States District Court Judge Harvey Bartle III on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine on a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.
In 2019, Penda, a crew member who worked on board the shipping vessel MSC Gayane as the ship’s fourth engineer, conspired with others to engage in bulk cocaine smuggling. On multiple occasions during the MSC Gayane’s voyage at sea, crew members, including Penda, helped load bulk cocaine onto the vessel from speedboats that approached under cover of darkness, traveling at high speeds. Crew members used the Gayane’s crane to hoist cargo nets full of cocaine onto the vessel and then stashed the drugs in various shipping containers.
On June 17, 2019, federal, state, and local law enforcement agents boarded the MSC Gayane when it arrived at Packer Marine Terminal in Philadelphia and seized approximately 20 tons of cocaine on the ship, with a street value of over $1 billion. This was one of the largest drug seizures in U.S. history.
“Federal agents found nearly 20 tons of cocaine hidden on this ship when it arrived in the port of Philadelphia in June 2019,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “Over the past year, prosecutors in my Office, in conjunction with our partner agencies, have been working non-stop to pursue justice in this case in order to protect our district and our country. We want to send a strong message to criminals around the world that Philadelphia is not a safe harbor for their deadly drug trafficking.”
“Mr. Penda’s guilty plea is a testament to Homeland Security Investigations commitment to holding all those involved in the transnational drug smuggling investigation aboard the MSC Gayane accountable,” said Brian A. Michael, Special Agent in Charge for HSI Philadelphia. “HSI, in collaboration with CBP, the Coast Guard, and our other federal, state and local law enforcement partners, are committed to the detection and disruption of transnational drug smuggling, and will continue to work in concert with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania to keep our communities safe.”
“Mr. Penda’s plea agreement reinforces the notion that there are severe consequences for trafficking large amounts of dangerous drugs, such as this record-breaking cocaine seizure, into our communities,” said Casey Durst, CBP’s Director of Field Operations in Baltimore. “Customs and Border Protection remains steadfast on our nation’s borders, and arm-in-arm with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, to protect our communities.”
The defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of lifetime imprisonment.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Customs and Border Protection, together with a multi-agency team of federal, state, and local partners.
Loan Officer and Real Estate Developer Sentenced for Conspiracy to Make False Statements to BanksRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia Hernandez Covington has sentenced Jonathan Marmol (41, Odessa) to 15 months in federal prison and Mordechai Boaziz (67, Miami Beach) to 90 days in federal prison for conspiracy to make false statements to financial institutions.
Marmol and Boaziz had pleaded guilty to the offenses in November 2019.
According to court documents, beginning around the summer of 2006, and continuing through August 2008, Boaziz and Marmol conspired with others to execute a scheme to influence the credit decisions of financial institutions in connection with the sale of condominium units at The Preserve at Temple Terrace, a 392-unit condominium complex located in Temple Terrace, Florida. Boaziz was a real estate developer converting The Preserve from an apartment complex into a condominium complex. Boaziz, the leader and organizer of the fraud scheme, hired Marmol to market the condominium units at the complex.
In order to recruit and entice otherwise unqualified buyers to purchase units at The Preserve, the conspirators offered to pay the prospective buyers’ down payments (“cash-to-close”). The conspirators then intentionally concealed the cash-to-close payments from the financial institutions that originated and funded the related mortgage loans.
In particular, the HUD-1 Settlement Statements submitted to the financial institutions falsely stated that the buyers brought their own cash-to-close funds to purchase the units, which influenced the financial institutions’ mortgage loan approval decisions. In reality, Boaziz funded the buyers’ cash-to-close and routed the payments through Marmol and others. Boaziz caused approximately $5.36 million in losses, and Marmol caused approximately $330,000 in losses to the victim financial institutions who financed the units at The Preserve.
This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor and Assistant United States Attorney Jay L. Hoffer.
Lima man charged as a felon in possession of firearmRead the Press Release
Justin E. Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that a federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio has returned a one-count indictment charging Dominic Wright, 25, of Lima, Ohio with felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to court documents filed in this matter, On October 16, 2019, Wright possessed a Hi-Point 380 caliber pistol and ten (10) rounds of ammunition. He was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of a 2016 conviction in Lucas County Common Pleas Court for unlawful sexual conduct with a minor.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Deyana Unis and Matthew D. Simko.
Lancaster Man Sentenced for His Role in Heroin 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 Kevin Hinca, 28, of Lancaster, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to distribute heroin, was sentenced to serve 32 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles J. Volkert, Jr., who handled the case, stated that between December 2015 and June 2016, the defendant conspired with others to distribute heroin in the Western District of New York. Hinca was identified as a heroin dealer during a 2016 DEA investigation into a larger drug-trafficking network operating in the Buffalo area.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ray Donovan.
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Lancaster Man Pleads Guilty to Charges of Sexually Abusing Children in a Kenyan OrphanageRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Gregory Dow, 61, of Lancaster, PA entered a plea of guilty before United States District Court Judge Edward G. Smith on four counts of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor in a foreign place, stemming from his operation of an orphanage in Kenya.
In early 2008, Dow and his family traveled from Lancaster County to the Republic of Kenya to start an orphanage. The orphanage, which came to be known as the Dow Family Children’s Home, was established in Bomet County, Kenya around April 2008. The defendant purported to be a Christian missionary who cared for these children and asked them to call him “Dad.” But instead of being a father figure, he preyed on their youth and vulnerability. The Dow Family Children’s Home remained in operation until September 2017, at which time Kenyan authorities suspected that Dow had sexually abused children in his care. Dow fled Kenya when the allegations came to light, returning to Lancaster County.
Acting on a tip, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated the allegations and determined that Dow had sexually abused at least four teenage girls between October 2013 and September 2017. Two of the girls were as young as 11 years old when the abuse began. The defendant’s wife even transported the victims to a medical clinic to have birth control devices implanted into their arms so that Dow could perpetrate his crimes without fear of impregnating his victims. In July 2019, he was charged in a four count Indictment. Today, the defendant pleaded guilty to all counts.
“Gregory Dow hid behind his supposed faith on the other side of the world, hoping no one in the U.S. would know or care about the children he abused. He was wrong,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “Holding those accountable who sexually abuse children, no matter where their crimes occur, will continue to be a top priority of my Office and the entire Department of Justice.”
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. 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 investigation was conducted by the FBI with assistance from Kenyan authorities, the Lancaster City Bureau of Police and the East Hempfield Township Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Stengel of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and Department of Justice Trial Attorneys Lauren Britsch and Lauren Kupersmith of the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS).
Justice Department Observes 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – Today, U.S. Attorney Scott C. Blader joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
“Crimes against the elderly target some of the most vulnerable individuals in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “My office will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to bring those who prey on the elderly to justice, especially those who take advantage of the pandemic to engage in fraud schemes.”
U.S. Attorney Blader noted two recent elder fraud prosecutions as examples of the types of cases that his office has made a priority. In December 2019, Jamie Smith, a coin broker from Baldwin, Wisconsin, was sentenced 54 months for liquidating his clients’ coins and using the funds for his personal expenses. In May 2020, Emmanual Odiah, a Nigerian national, was sentenced to 54 months for assisting an international fraud scheme by opening bank accounts in the United States to launder the proceeds of the scheme. Many of Smith’s and Odiah’s victims were elderly individuals.
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities. Major strides have already been made to that end:
• National Elder Fraud Hotline (833-FRAUD-11) - Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
• Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
• Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
• Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
• Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
Justice Department Files Civil Action to Support Major Expansion of Arlington National CemeteryRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice filed today a civil action on behalf of the Department of the Army for the taking of roadways owned or operated by Arlington County, Virginia, by eminent domain for the purpose of expanding Arlington National Cemetery. The taking and relocation of these roadways, together with future planned acquisitions from the Commonwealth of Virginia, will establish a single, contiguous parcel of land south of the existing cemetery. The incorporation of this land into the cemetery will create a 49-acre contiguous parcel available for cemetery development.
When completed, the Arlington National Cemetery Southern Expansion Project will provide for approximately 60,000 additional burial sites, including an above ground columbarium. The expansion will extend the timeline for Arlington National Cemetery to continue as an active military cemetery. The total project cost, including the related Defense Access Roads Project, is estimated at $420 million, and Congress already has appropriated $280 million in Project-related funding.
The expansion project will benefit Arlington County and its residents by, among other things, burying overhead power lines and incorporating the Air Force Memorial and surrounding vacant land into Arlington National Cemetery. The project will transform Columbia Pike from South Oak Street to Washington Boulevard by re-aligning and widening it. The project includes street-scape zones with trees on both sides of Columbia Pike, adding a new dedicated bike path, and widening pedestrian walkways. The project also provides for the construction of a new South Nash Street.
“Earlier this month, we recognized the 76th anniversary of D-Day and we remembered the heroism, service, and sacrifice of American servicemen and women in the defense of freedom,” said Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey Bossert Clark of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “But every day the ultimate sacrifice of America’s men and women is commemorated at Arlington National Cemetery, our nation’s most hallowed ground. With today’s civil action, we are proud to assist with this important expansion of Arlington Cemetery, which may now continue to serve as a burial ground for America’s fallen well into the future.”
“As part of the Expansion Project, the Department of the Army and others worked to realign roads and real estate to ensure a much needed expansion of Arlington National Cemetery so that this space can continue being a hallowed resting ground for our nation’s service members,” said U.S. Attorney G. Zachary Terwilliger for the Eastern District of Virginia. “As someone whose grandfather will forever reside at ANC with so many of his friends, brothers, and sisters of the greatest generation, it is particularly meaningful to assist in facilitating this expansion and seek court approval for just compensation for Arlington County.”
June 15, 2020 marks the 156th anniversary of Arlington National Cemetery, which was established as a military cemetery in 1864 during the American Civil War.
Congress authorized the Department of the Army to acquire land, including acquisition by condemnation, if necessary, for the expansion of Arlington National Cemetery. Congress gets its authority from the U.S. Constitution that allows the taking of public county property for a public use. In turn, the government must pay just compensation for the property. Acquisition by condemnation is an open and transparent process that assures fair treatment for landowners and taxpayers alike. The government here is providing just compensation in the form of substitute facilities, including a realigned and redesigned Columbia Pike and the construction of a new South Nash Street.
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.
Jefferson County Man Sentenced to 78 years in Federal Prison for Arson and Insurance Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A 52-year-old Groves, Texas man has been sentenced to 78 years in federal prison for violations related to an arson and insurance fraud scheme in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Cox today.
Patrick Wayne Bronnon was found guilty on Oct. 21, 2019 of 40 charges including conspiracy to commit mail fraud and use of a fire in commission of a felony. Bronnon was sentenced to 940 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone.
Breakdown: 16 counts of mail fraud and conspiracy to commit mail fraud—100 months on each count to run concurrently.
First count of Use of a Fire in commission of mail fraud (Arson)—120 months consecutive to the 100 months above.
Second count of Use of a Fire in commission of mail fraud—240 months consecutive to the 220 months above
Third count of Use of a Fire in commission of mail fraud—240 more months consecutive to the 460 months above
For a total of 940 months.
“This sentence is deserved not only because of the tremendous loss to insurance companies, but also in light of the danger Bronnon imposed on our first responders every time he set a fire,” said U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Cox. “That he put his own greed ahead of the lives of others has cost him his freedom for a long time.”
According to information presented in court, beginning in 2011, Bronnon, and others, began executing a scheme to defraud various insurance companies through fraudulent claims on homes and vehicles. The scheme involved identifying a low value property and purchasing it through a co-defendant straw purchaser. Within a few weeks of a down payment being made, Bronnon or an associate would intentionally damage the home, typically by fire or water, in order to collect insurance proceeds. In total, nine fraudulent fire claims, three fraudulent water damage claims, and two fraudulent theft claims were filed with various insurance companies on nine different addresses, totaling approximately $1.7 million in fraudulent payments. The properties were located in Port Arthur, Port Neches, Beaumont, and Sugarland, Texas.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, National Insurance Crime Bureau and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph R. Batte.
Jasper County Brothers Sentenced for Federal Drug Trafficking ViolationsRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – Two Buna, Texas brothers have been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking crimes in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Cox today.
James Joseph Fabela, 41, and Benjamin Jason Fabela, 36, each pleaded guilty on Nov. 15, 2019, to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and were each sentenced to 135 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone today. Ownership of their residence in Buna, Texas was also forfeited.
According to information presented in court, from as early as July 2016, the defendants have been involved in a drug trafficking enterprise trafficking methamphetamine in the Buna, Texas area. James Fabela and Benjamin Fabela have supervised, managed and controlled the drug trafficking organization with personal knowledge of the distribution of methamphetamine. In total, the organization sold more than 700 grams of methamphetamine in the Southeast Texas area. The defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury on Sep. 5, 2018.
This case is the result of an extensive joint investigation by 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. Six other defendants have been convicted and sentenced for their roles in the conspiracies.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Rapp.
In Announcing the Observation of the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, United States Attorney William D. Hyslop and the Department of Justice Call Upon the Community to Help Stop Elder Abuse and Elder FraudRead the Press Release
Spokane – Today, United States Attorney William D. Hyslop and the Department of Justice announced the observation of the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
United States Attorney William D. Hyslop stated, “Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. But every day should be a day we all work together to stop elder abuse and elder fraud. These are serious crimes that prey upon our most vulnerable citizens. They should be honored and respected for their years. We cannot allow fraudsters and others to take advantage of them.”
“This is everyone’s responsibility to report elder abuse and elder fraud when you see it. This is everyone’s duty to help protect our senior members of our community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this is more important than ever,” United States Attorney William D. Hyslop said.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department of Justice and the United States Attorneys will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
Over the last year, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington obtained convictions in elder fraud and elder abuse related cases brought before the United States District Court, such as the following:
• On September 12, 2019, Michelle Susan Ferrell, age 59, of Spokane Valley, was sentenced on a federal wire fraud conviction to 3 years of imprisonment, 3 years of court supervision, and to pay $99,871 restitution and forfeiture. According to information disclosed during court proceedings (No. 2:19-cr-0029-RHW), Ferrell worked as a bookkeeper for Greater Spokane County Meals on Wheels (Meals on Wheels) between May 2013 and April 2018. Meals on Wheels, which is part of the nationwide Meals on Wheels America organization operating throughout the United States, relies on government funding and private donations to provide over 1,000 meals each day to elderly and disabled residents of Spokane County. While employed at Meals on Wheels, Ferrell used the organization’s funds and bank accounts to pay for unauthorized personal expenses, including mortgage, utility, and property tax payments on her residence, and to electronically transfer funds to herself and her businesses. Ferrell concealed her thefts by making false and misleading accounting entries, creating the appearance that she was paying legitimate operating expenses of the organization. Over five years, Ferrell stole in excess of $99,000 in Meals on Wheels funds. As part of her scheme, Ferrell also defrauded the IRS by withholding Meals on Wheels payroll taxes and not remitting all the taxes to the IRS, failing to file certain quarterly payroll tax returns, and making false accounting entries.
• On July 9, 2019, Nazir Bolajoko Hamza, age 48, of Arlington, Texas, was sentenced on a federal money laundering conviction to 5 years of probation with 30 days of intermittent confinement, $98,000 in restitution, and an $11,000 money judgment. According to information disclosed during court proceedings (No. 2:18-cr-0081-RMP), the case involved a Nigerian e-mail compromise fraud scheme that targeted an elderly Spokane resident who was getting ready to close on the purchase of a house. The elderly victim was deceived by fake wire instructions into wiring what the victim believed was $98,000 for the closing on the house. Hamza was involved in the laundering of the wired funds by removing the funds from the account.
The preceding cases were prosecuted by Dan Fruchter, Tyler H.L. Tornabene and Brian Donovan, Assistant United States Attorneys for the Eastern District of Washington.
Earlier this year, Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities. Major strides have already been made to that end:
• National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
• Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
• Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
• Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
• Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to 5 Years for Firearm and Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
MEMPHIS, TN – After a three-day trial in February 2020, and jurors having deliberated for less than 40 minutes, a federal jury found Carlos Landeros-Salcedo, 26, guilty of being a prohibited person (alien) in possession of a firearm, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Carlos Landeros-Salcedo has now been sentenced to 60 months in federal prison. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.
According to information presented in court, on March 29, 2016, Memphis Police Department Organized Crime Unit detectives were called to a residence regarding a drug complaint. The homeowner and the defendant were informed of the complaint. The homeowner gave verbal and written consent for law enforcement to search the residence.
The defendant informed officers that he had a gun and powder in his bedroom. He then showed officers his room, where a gray Tanfoglio 10mm caliber pistol on the defendant’s bed was in plain view. The firearm was loaded with approximately 10 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, detectives recovered 21 small bags containing powder cocaine inside a jar in a dresser drawer, an assortment of baggies, and a black digital scale. The defendant provided a written statement admitting to possession of the drugs.
In May of 2016, when federal agents interviewed the defendant, he admitted to being a citizen of Mexico and illegally present in the United States. After being indicted in September 2016 on federal charges, the defendant avoided capture until August 2019. At the time of his arrest, the defendant was in possession of fake immigration documents.
On June 10, 2020, U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Carlos Landeros-Salcedo to 60 months in federal prison. The defendant will be subject to deportation and removal upon completion of his federal custodial sentence.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Criminal aliens not only threaten the sovereignty of our nation, but also threaten the safety of our communities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has prioritized and renewed our commitment to immigration enforcement, and this case demonstrates our focus on those violent and dangerous criminal aliens who continue to violate our laws after illegal entry. We commend the outstanding investigative work of HSI and ICE in this case."
The Department of Homeland Security Investigations – Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Marques Young prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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Hindman Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Armed Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
PIKEVILLE, Ky. - A Hindman, Kentucky man, Gary Amburgey, 46, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison on Monday, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to his plea agreement, Amburgey admitted that, from December 2018 through February 2019, he conspired with others to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Specifically, Amburgey admitted that, through an agreement, he obtained approximately five ounces of methamphetamine to distribute and that law enforcement searches uncovered more than 59 grams of methamphetamine, paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking, a stolen handgun, and a semi-automatic assault rifle. Amburgey also admitted that he purchased a firearm to avoid being robbed, and he knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm based on a prior felony conviction.
Amburgey pleaded guilty in February 2020.
Under federal law, Amburgey must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for four years, following his release.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Louisville Field Division; and Commissioner Rodney Brewer, Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by ATF and KSP. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Parman.
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
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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Harrison County man sentenced for failing to update his sex offender registrationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Gordon Eugene Mays, Jr., of Reynoldsville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for a sex offender charge, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Mays, age 55, pled guilty to one count of “Failure to Update Sex Offender Registration.” Mays, a person required to register as a sex offender, admitted to failing to update his registration in September 2018.
This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service investigated.
U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Greenup County Man Sentenced to 120 Months for Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. - A Greenup, Kentucky man, Justin Huffman, 32, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison on Monday, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Huffman admitted that, on September 21, 2019, he went to a victim’s residence in Greenup County, with a juvenile, and struck a victim in the face while in possession of a firearm, in order to retrieve some property. Prior to being stopped by officers, Huffman admitted to giving the firearm to the juvenile, to conceal it from police. The firearm was recovered by law enforcement, who then confirmed the firearm was stolen. Huffman admitted that he knowingly possessed the firearm and that he was prohibited from possessing it, as a convicted felon.
Huffman pleaded guilty in February 2020. Huffman was previously convicted, in 2013, of Second Degree Robbery, in Boyd County Circuit Court.
Under federal law, Huffman must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Louisville Field Division; Commissioner Rodney Brewer, Kentucky State Police; Sheriff Matt Smith, Greenup County Sheriff’s Department; and Chief Scott Gillum, Flatwoods Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by ATF ,KSP, Greenup County Sheriff’s Department, and Flatwoods Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco Villalobos II.
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 also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. Click here for more information about Project Guardian
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.
— END —
Former Sacramento Resident Extradited from UK to Face Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Following three and a half years of extradition litigation before courts in the United Kingdom, a former Sacramento resident was arraigned today in the Eastern District of California, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
On June 12, 2020, Brian Arthur Dempsey, 48, was extradited from the United Kingdom to the United States to stand trial on charges that he made false statements to an agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation concerning his travel to Syria. He was first arrested in the United Kingdom on Jan. 18, 2017, and has been in custody since that date.
On June 23, 2016, a grand jury, sitting in the Eastern District of California, returned an indictment charging Dempsey with a single count of making false statements in a matter involving an international terrorism investigation. The indictment alleges that on or about Aug. 22, 2013, during an interview with an FBI agent at the Fiumicino International Airport in Rome, Italy, Dempsey did knowingly and willfully make and cause to be made materially false, fictitious, and fraudulent statements and representations in a matter involving international terrorism. The false statements were related to the nature of his travel to Syria in July 2013.
This case is the product of an investigation by the FBI. The Department of Justice acknowledges and expresses its appreciation of the significant assistance provided by the UK authorities. The Office of International Affairs of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division provided significant support in securing and coordinating Dempsey’s arrest and extradition. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heiko Coppola is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Dempsey faces a maximum statutory penalty of eight years 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 defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Former Oklahoman Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering for His Role in a Nigerian Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A New York man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court for his role as a money launderer in a Nigerian romance scam that defrauded multiple victims, including elderly victims, across the United States and netted at least $1.5 million, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores.
Oluwaseun John Ogundele, 30, formerly of Norman, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering before U.S. District Court Judge Gregory K. Frizzell.
“United States Attorney General William Barr directed U.S. Attorneys to hold accountable the vast criminal element targeting America’s seniors. My office heard him loud and clear and worked with the FBI to take down a Nigerian romance fraud scheme. It is fitting that Mr. Ogundele’s conviction comes today as we recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “Con artists who cheat elder Americans out of their life savings will get a one way ticket to federal prison. I encourage victims to speak up and report these crimes to help us stop these fraudsters.”
“Mr. Ogundele and his co-conspirators used online romance scams to prey upon dozens of victims across the country, many of whom experienced significant financial loss. Today's guilty plea demonstrates the FBI and our law enforcement partners will not tolerate criminals who defraud innocent Americans," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Melissa Godbold of the Oklahoma City Field Office.
In his plea agreement, Ogundele admitted that between 2015 and November 2019, together with co-conspirators, he knowingly concealed the proceeds of a romance scam operation by moving money between and among multiple bank accounts that were opened under various aliases using fake passports and other fraudulent identification documents to obscure the source of the funds and the identities of the co-conspirators. Thereafter, Ogundele took further steps to conceal the source of the funds, took a commission for himself, and directed the remainder of the funds back to the online romance scammers in Nigeria, including in the form of vehicles and vehicle parts.
Ogundele coordinated with overseas co-conspirators who had assumed false identities on online dating websites and social media platforms with the intent to defraud victims. Ogundele opened multiple accounts using fraudulent identities then provided the account and routing numbers to the overseas co-conspirators. The overseas co-conspirators told victims they were U.S. residents working abroad. In fact, the investigation revealed that these overseas co-conspirators were located in Nigeria. As these online “relationships” continued, the overseas co-conspirators’ requests would develop into increasingly larger sums of money, with the claimed purpose that the funds were needed to complete business projects or to return to the United States. The victims were directed by the overseas co-conspirators to send funds to Ogundele and others’ bank accounts, assuring the victims that he would allocate the money as needed.
Ogundele was charged along with nine co-defendants, including: Afeez Olajide Adebara, 35, U.S. citizen residing in Norman; Joshua Naandom Ditep, 25, Nigerian citizen and lawful permanent resident of the United States residing in Norman; Paul Usoro, 25, Nigerian citizen and lawful permanent resident of the United States residing in Norman; Chibuzo Godwin Obiefuna, Jr., 26, U.S. citizen residing in Long Beach, California; Tobiloba Kehinde, 28, Nigerian citizen residing in Norman; Jamiu Ibukun Adedeji, 24, Nigerian citizen, residing in Norman; First and last name unknown #1, who maintained an address in Brooklyn, New York; First and last name unknown #2, who maintained an address in Dallas, Texas; and First and last name unknown #3, who maintained an address in Dallas, Texas. Adebara, Ditep, Usoro, Obiefuna, Kehinde, and Adedeji await trial while the three additional co-defendants remain fugitives. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case is part of an ongoing national effort by the Department of Justice to address online fraud schemes often based out of Nigeria that target U.S. citizens. The public is encouraged to report potential online fraud activity or scams to the FBI at https://www.ic3.gov/.
The FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office conducted the investigation with assistance from the FBI’s San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York Field Offices. Trial Attorneys Babasijibomi Moore and David Stier of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Nassar of the Northern District of Oklahoma are prosecuting the case.
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.
Former CEO Pleads Guilty to Embezzling $8M Intended for Injured ChildrenRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A former Arlington business executive pleaded guilty today to embezzling nearly $8 million that was intended to settle claims by children who alleged they were victims of medical malpractice.
According to court documents, Joseph E. Gargan, 59, of Round Hill, was the Chief Executive Office of the Pension Company, Inc., an Arlington business that would execute settlement agreements entered into between civil litigants. Specifically, the Pension Company was hired to transfer money from civil defendants to plaintiffs and to purchase annuities on behalf of minor plaintiffs.
The United States government entered into settlement agreements with plaintiffs in six separate matters. Each of these cases involved children who either claimed to be injured as a result of medical malpractice or who suffered the loss of a parent through alleged medical negligence that occurred at a hospital or clinic operated or insured by the federal government. The settlement agreements required the United States to pay the plaintiff a sum of money and to purchase an annuity on behalf of the injured child. From December 2015 to August 2019, the United States transferred a total of $15,925,000 to the Pension Company to purchase the annuities and execute the six settlement agreements. Gargan embezzled $6,925,000 of this money.
In addition, Gargan embezzled money from a hospital located in New York that was part of a civil settlement with a minor child. The settlement called for, among other things, $3,825,000 to be paid by the hospital to a trust to pay for the care and ongoing medical treatment of the child. The settlement agreement also provided that a portion of the $3,825,000 be paid to a structured settlement broker who would then purchase an annuity which would generate future income for the trust. The Pension Company was retained as the structured settlement broker. From October 2018 to March 2020, the hospital paid the Pension Company a total of $1,032,750 to fund the purchase of an annuity on behalf of the trust. Gargan embezzled all $1,032,750.
In some cases, Gargan attempted to conceal his criminal activity by creating false documents purporting to show that he had purchased the annuities when, in fact, he had embezzled and converted that money to his own use. Gargan also made payments to the plaintiffs falsely claiming the payments were proceeds from an annuity, when, in fact, the payments were made only to conceal his criminal conduct.
The total amount embezzled by Gargan is $7,957,750.
Gargan pleaded guilty to embezzlement of government funds and wire fraud and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison when sentenced on September 23. 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 James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge, Criminal Division, FBI Washington Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Rossie D. Alston, Jr. accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorney William Fitzpatrick 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-110.
Executions Scheduled for Four Federal Inmates Convicted of Murdering ChildrenRead the Press Release
Attorney General William P. Barr today directed the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to schedule the executions of four federal death-row inmates who were convicted of murdering children in violation of federal law and who, in two cases, raped the children they murdered.
In July 2019, Attorney General Barr directed the BOP to revise the Federal Execution Protocol to provide for the use of a single-drug, pentobarbital — similar to protocols used in hundreds of state executions and repeatedly upheld by federal courts, including the Supreme Court, as consistent with the Eighth Amendment. A district court’s preliminary injunction prevented BOP from carrying out executions under the revised protocol, but the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit vacated that injunction — clearing the way for the federal government to resume capital punishment after a nearly two-decade hiatus.
“The American people, acting through Congress and Presidents of both political parties, have long instructed that defendants convicted of the most heinous crimes should be subject to a sentence of death,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The four murderers whose executions are scheduled today have received full and fair proceedings under our Constitution and laws. We owe it to the victims of these horrific crimes, and to the families left behind, to carry forward the sentence imposed by our justice system.”
In accordance with 28 C.F.R. Part 26, the BOP has scheduled executions for the following death-sentenced inmates:
- Daniel Lewis Lee, a member of a white supremacist group, murdered a family of three, including an eight-year-old girl. After robbing and shooting the victims with a stun gun, Lee covered their heads with plastic bags, sealed the bags with duct tape, weighed down each victim with rocks, and threw the family of three into the Illinois bayou. On May 4, 1999, a jury in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas found Lee guilty of numerous offenses, including three counts of murder in aid of racketeering, and he was sentenced to death. Lee’s execution is scheduled to occur on July 13, 2020.
- Wesley Ira Purkey violently raped and murdered a 16-year-old girl, and then dismembered, burned, and dumped the young girl’s body in a septic pond. He also was convicted in state court for using a claw hammer to bludgeon to death an 80-year-old woman who suffered from polio and walked with a cane. On November 5, 2003, a jury in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri found Purkey guilty of kidnapping a child resulting in the child’s death, and he was sentenced to death. Purkey’s execution is scheduled to occur on July 15, 2020.
- Dustin Lee Honken shot and killed five people — two men who planned to testify against him, and a single, working mother and her ten-year-old and six-year-old daughters. On October 14, 2004, a jury in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Iowa found Honken guilty of numerous offenses, including five counts of murder during the course of a continuing criminal enterprise, and he was sentenced to death. Honken’s execution is scheduled to occur on July 17, 2020.
- Keith Dwayne Nelson kidnapped a 10-year-old girl rollerblading in front of her home, and in a forest behind a church, raped her and strangled her to death with a wire. On October 25, 2001, Nelson pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri to the kidnapping and unlawful interstate transportation of a child for the purpose of sexual abuse which resulted in death, and he was sentenced to death. Nelson’s execution is scheduled to occur on August 28, 2020.
Each of these inmates has exhausted appellate and post-conviction remedies, and no legal impediments prevent their executions, which will take place at U.S. Penitentiary Terre Haute, Indiana. Additional executions will be scheduled at a later date.
Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen Issues Further Update to Memo on the Applicability of the Wire Act to Non-Sports GamblingRead the Press Release
In the June 11, 2020 memorandum to all U.S. Attorneys, Assistant Attorneys General, and the FBI, the Deputy Attorney General extended the grace period until December 1, 2020, on implementing the Office of Legal Counsel's (OLC) 2018 opinion finding that all but one of the prohibitions of the Wire Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1084, apply to non-sports gambling. During the grace period, federal prosecutors should not apply the Wire Act to non-sports-related betting or wagering. The Deputy Attorney General also directed that, to ensure continuity across the country, any Wire Act charges must be reviewed and approved by the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section.
Department of Justice observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
HONOLULU, Hawaii – Today, U.S. Attorney Kenji M. Price joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
- Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
Anchorage, Alaska – Today, U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
“Schemes that target or disproportionately affect older Americans, are reprehensible and will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Schroder. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to bringing swift action against those who attempt to enrich themselves by stealing from our country’s most respected citizens. On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, I encourage Alaskans to report fraud schemes and spread the word among families and friends.”
Earlier this month, the Alaska U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI’s Anchorage Field Office partnered with AARP in a statewide telephone town hall, to help prevent senior Alaskans from falling victim to scams and other schemes attempting to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic. Through various platforms, the event reached a total of 591 listeners throughout Alaska.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11. Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11. Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama – Today, United States Attorney Louis V. Franklin, Sr., joins Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
“Fraud and abuse against the elderly are despicable crimes that target some of the most vulnerable people in our society,” stated U.S. Attorney Louis V. Franklin, Sr., from the Middle District of Alabama. “Criminals often take advantage of victims because of advanced age or illness, especially during times of crisis, and they are working overtime to stir up the health and financial fears we all are experiencing. I encourage everyone to remain diligent to avoid being victimized, and to check in on at-risk family members and friends regularly. Early detection of fraudulent activity provides the best chance of mitigating losses and identifying the perpetrator.”
In a recent case prosecuted in the Middle District of Alabama, Montreal Holley, a former Regions Bank employee, was sent to prison for taking advantage of an elderly customer and convincing her to trust only him to handle her money. In just a few months, he managed to swindle her out of over $300,000. Thankfully, bank investigators quickly identified the criminal activity and worked with federal agents to bring him to justice. In February of this year, Holley was sentenced to 37 months in prison and was ordered to pay restitution to Regions Bank, which had credited all the stolen funds back into the customer’s account.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Today, U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
“Elder abuse is a serious crime against some of our most vulnerable citizens. Our seniors deserve our best efforts to prosecute those who profit from their vulnerabilities,” Town said. “We remain committed to protecting and pursuing justice for North Alabama’s seniors.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Today, United States Attorney Michael Bailey joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
"The Department of Justice has made protecting America's seniors a top priority, and our office shares that commitment," said United States Attorney Michael Bailey. "Our seniors deserve to be treasured and treated with respect and care, not targeted by fraudulent schemes. We encourage you to call the hotline today if you suspect abuse. Let's work together to protect our seniors."
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the virus are our senior citizens. Bad actors have exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly, who are vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, through a host of scams and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic and targeting seniors by offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. Just last week, attorneys from the District of Arizona partnered with the FBI and AARP to give a telephonic town hall about current COVID-19 scams around the country. The town hall was attended by well over a thousand callers from the state who had the opportunity to ask questions and learn tips for avoiding scams.
On this day, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, dedicated to recognizing our seniors who have been victims of scams and other forms of abuse, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we will continue the fight to keep seniors safe. Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities. In recognition of that goal, the United States Attorney's Office for the District of Arizona also collaborated with the Pima Council on Aging and the FBI in January to offer an informational talk on scams for older adults.
Major strides have already been made toward the goal of preventing and disrupting elder fraud:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Attorney General Barr recently launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors, including 16 defendants charged in the District of Arizona.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2020-058_Elder Abuse Awareness Day
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
DENVER – Today, U.S. Attorney Jason R. Dunn joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
“Protecting our senior citizen community from elder fraud is an important priority for my office,” said U.S. Attorney Jason R. Dunn. “Working closely with our law enforcement partners, we will hold accountable those who take advantage of vulnerable seniors.”
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training, resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
Miami, Fl. -- Today, U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities. Major strides have already been made to that end:
National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force
Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida is one of these six districts. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
Annual Elder Justice Sweep
In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors. From January 2019 through March 2020, the Southern District of Florida charged over 25 defendants in elder fraud cases.
Money Mule Initiative
Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019, actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year. Since the initiative’s inception, the Southern District of Florida has brought money-mule related charges against more than 10 defendants.
Accountability of foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee U.S.
Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
BOISE – Today, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
“I encourage senior citizens to be particularly vigilant during these times of COVID-19, when fraudsters are working overtime to stoke health and financial fears we all are experiencing,” said U.S. Attorney Davis. “It is the Department’s mission to both prevent and prosecute fraud on our seniors through enforcement and outreach. This is being accomplished in my office by our Elder Justice Coordinator, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Mazorol.”
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end across the country:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11. Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
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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Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
Today, U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Raised in large part by my grandparents, I understand how important our seniors are and the value they add to our communities. They should be respected and revered, not targeted. Whether criminals use the COVID pandemic or seek to enrich themselves by taking advantage of a lifetime of hard work and savings, those who target our elders should know I will use every resource available to the Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.”
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: Today, U.S. Attorney Halsey B. Frank joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors by offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
“Every society has an obligation to protect its most vulnerable citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Frank. “Defrauding senior citizens, particularly in the midst of a deadly pandemic, is outrageous and despicable. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners are committed to investigating and prosecuting those who target Maine seniors.”
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities. Major strides have already been made to that end:
National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force:
Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
Annual Elder Justice Sweep:
In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
Money Mule Initiative:
Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019, actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable:
Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
St. Louis, Missouri – Today, U.S. Attorney Jeff Jensen joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
“Seniors are valuable members of our community. Unfortunately, they are often vulnerable to devious forms of abuse and fraud. Our goal is to stop such abuse before it happens and, when it does, to pursue the stiffest penalties and restitution amounts possible,” U.S. Attorney Jeff Jensen said.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
Today, U.S. Attorney Trent Shores joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
“On this day when the world highlights the problem of elder abuse and fraud, the Department of Justice continues to send a strong message that keeping our seniors safe is a top priority,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “My office will fight to hold accountable those con artists who take advantage of older Oklahomans.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds.
The District of Northern Oklahoma recently brought federal charges in multiple cases of elder fraud. In November 2019, the office charged ten men with laundering proceeds acquired through online romance scams operated from Nigeria. Fraudsters targeted multiple elder victims from across America, including Oklahoma, and netted at least $1.5 million. In another case, William Brian Mulder, 61, of Tulsa, was charged with 26 counts of Bank Fraud; 41 counts of causing the interstate transmission of moneys taken by fraud, and five counts of engaging in unlawful monetary transactions. He allegedly defrauded five federally insured financial institutions and two investor families of more than $5 million dollars. Also, in February 2020, Jacob Kyle Killough, 37, of Owasso, pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft and financial institution fraud. Killough stole checks from multiple elderly victims’ mailboxes then altered them to show the checks payable to Killough.
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
-National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
-Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
-Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors. The District of Northern Oklahoma took part in this sweep. You can find the press release here.
-Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year. In December 2019, the District of Northern Oklahoma charged a money mule, Crystal Lynne Clark, with 14 counts of aggravated identity theft. Clark allegedly used stolen credit card information from victims to purchase gift cards. She then provided her associates with the gift card information and also used the victims’ credit cards to make numerous personal purchases. See the press release here.
-Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
MEMPHIS, TN – Today, U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "It is a top priority for this office to protect our senior population across the district. To halt the scourge of abuse, exploitation and financial fraud against older citizens, we are pleased to join with the Attorney General in our firm commitment to investigate, prosecute, punish and deter crimes against our vulnerable seniors. Those who target or victimize the elderly will receive the full attention of our office and law enforcement officials in West Tennessee."
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared "Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud" to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Two cases from the Western District of Tennessee were included as part of the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in history earlier this year:
• Keith L. Dobbs, 39, disbarred Memphis attorney, has been charged with sixty-seven counts federal felony violations. Dobbs misappropriated funds from 26 victims who received veteran’s benefits and nine Social Security recipients. https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/pr/federal-grand-jury-returns-two-indictments-charging-disbarred-memphis-attorney-total
• Stephen Douglas Fry, 72, a financial advisor who stole and embezzled approximately $1.3 million from a client who had given him power of attorney to prepare tax returns and manage and invest monies following the death of her husband. https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/pr/financial-advisor-pleads-guilty-fraud-charges
Additionally, major strides have already been made to support this Department of Justice Agency Priority Goal:
• National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
• Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
• Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors. https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtn/pr/department-justice-charges-unprecedented-number-elder-fraud-defendants-nationwide-and
• Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
• Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
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Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
Mr. Higdon commented: “Today many of our senior citizens - the men and woman who paved the way for all of us – are being victimized by those who would steal their money, their years of support, their retirement, their piece of mind. There are so many scams out there targeting our seniors. Whether the scammers are trying to convince you that you have won a lottery or sweepstakes you did not enter or impersonating a grandchild in need, they are trying to get you to let your guard down so they can take your money. Please remember the old adage: ‘If it seems too good to be true, it is!’ Be skeptical, be cautious and remember there is no quick way to get rich. And, if you have questions or concerns, or if you think you have been scammed, please take advantage of the information and law enforcement contacts listed below.”
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors including four cases in the Eastern District of North Carolina: U.S. v. Tony McElveen, 7:19-CR-73; U.S. v. Furman Ford, 5:19-CR-166, U.S. v. Murray Todd, 7:19-CR-32; and U.S. v. Anthony March, 5:19-CR-383.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019, actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
- For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Department of Justice Observes the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Today, U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada joins Attorney General William P. Barr and the Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
“Elder Abuse Awareness Day reinforces the importance of not only prosecuting criminals who target seniors, but also conducting outreach to raise awareness and providing guidance to help recognize fraud schemes,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Our office looks forward to continue working with our law enforcement partners to bring to justice those who prey on the elderly.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but our senior citizens are among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus. During this time, when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly, the Department of Justice remains committed to preventing and prosecuting fraud on America’s seniors, including through its Elder Justice Initiative.
The Department of Justice will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic and targeting seniors by, among other things, offering fake testing kits and fake help to obtain stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department sends the message that it will continue the fight to keep seniors safe.
Earlier this year, Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities. Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline (833-FRAUD-11): Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors, including the following cases in the District of Nevada.
- U.S. v. Castro, et al.: Six Las Vegas-area residents with running a fraudulent mass-mailing scheme that defrauded hundreds of thousands of consumers — many of whom were elderly — into paying more than $10 million in fees for falsely promised cash prizes.
- U.S. v. Marcks, et al.: Five Las Vegas-area residents were charged in a 22-count indictment relating to an India-based telemarketing and email marketing conspiracy that targeted seniors. The defendants allegedly obtained over $2.4 million from victims residing throughout the United States.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019, the Money Mule Initiative halted the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams. For example, in 2019, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada charged four executives at PacNet Services Ltd, a payment processing company based in Vancouver, Canada, with engaging in a massive fraud scheme in which PacNet processed payments for companies that mailed fraudulent notifications to consumers (including many who were elderly or vulnerable) in the United States.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
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Department of Justice Observes 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—Today, U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and echoing voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
The Department of Justice is committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative (EJI), to preventing and prosecuting fraud on America’s seniors.
“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day affords us a valuable opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to protecting elderly Americans from fraud and abuse. Seniors fall victim to fraud schemes at far greater rates than the rest of the population,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “We all need to be vigilant in watching out for our elderly friends and love ones. Intercede when you learn that a friend or family member is contemplating sending money to someone who has contacted them by telephone or online. Your vigilance will make a difference.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world. Senior citizens are among those most vulnerable to and severely affected by the novel coronavirus. During this time when seniors are isolated from their families, friends, and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have exploited the public health emergency to prey on the elderly through a host of fraud schemes.
For a list of COVID-19-related fraud schemes and tips for protecting your friends and love ones, please visit the U.S. Attorney’s Office COVID-19 fraud webpage at www.justice.gov/usao-or/covid-19-fraud.
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities.
Recent District of Oregon elder fraud cases include:
U.S. v. Karanjit Khatkar et al.: In March 2020, two Canadian nationals were sentenced to 24 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release for conspiring to commit wire fraud and money laundering in a scheme to steal bitcoin from an elderly Oregon resident. As mandated by their plea agreements, the defendants delivered a $142,349 check as a prepayment of restitution to their victim at their change of plea hearing. At sentencing, they were ordered to pay an additional $42,162 to their victim for a total restitution order of $184,511. Read more.
U.S. v. Ronnie Stevens & Tina Ephrem: In November 2019, a Portland couple pleaded guilty to defrauding a local elderly couple of approximately $1.8 million in a scheme lasting more than two years. Ronnie Stevens aka Tim Ephrem, 50, and Tina Ephrem aka Lisa Ann Peterson, 43, each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Read more.
U.S. v. Theodore Martin Kirk: In September 2019, Theodore Martin Kirk, 64, of Klamath County, Oregon was sentenced to 15 months in prison and three years’ supervised release for stealing more than $30,000 in Social Security benefits dispersed in the name of his elderly mother, Nadine Kirk. Ms. Kirk has been missing since March 2010 and is presumed to be deceased. Read more.
Other Justice Department elder fraud initiatives include:
National Elder Fraud Hotline: Earlier this year, Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the strike force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in strike force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants.
Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019, actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those who flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
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.
Department of Justice Observes 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Today, U.S. Attorney Aaron L. Weisman joined Attorney General William P. Barr and the entire Department of Justice in observing the 15th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The Department echoes voices around the world condemning elder abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our country and the world, but among those most severely affected by the threat of the novel virus are our senior citizens. During this time when seniors are most vulnerable and isolated from their families and loved ones by social distancing and quarantine restrictions, bad actors have immediately exploited this international tragedy to prey on the elderly through a whole host of scam and fraud schemes. As the world takes this day to remember the elderly during these uncertain times, the Department of Justice remains relentlessly committed, through its department-wide Elder Justice Initiative, to prevent and prosecute fraud on America’s seniors.
The Department will aggressively prosecute fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic and targeting seniors offering them fake testing kits and fake help obtaining stimulus and Paycheck Protection Program Funds. On this day dedicated to recognizing our seniors, the Department of Justice sends a strong message that we continue the fight to keep seniors safe a top priority.
“Scammers and fraudsters are guided not by conscience, but by greed alone. They will confuse, lie to, and steal from their victims, particularly seniors, with total disregard for the financial and emotional ruins they leave behind,” said United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman. “The Department of Justice makes it our mission to both prevent and prosecute fraud on our seniors through enforcement and outreach.”
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr declared “Prevention and Disruption of Transnational Elder Fraud” to be an Agency Priority Goal, making it one of the Department’s four top priorities. Over the past year, the District of Rhode Island has brought federal charges in several cases alleging that seniors were targeted for fraud. Among the cases:
- A Boston man admitted to participating in a scheme to defraud senior citizens in Rhode Island and across the country by persuading them to send significant cash payments to various addresses in Rhode Island to secure the release of a relative from jail, purportedly arrested after being involved in a motor vehicle accident.
- Two individuals from Houston and three from the Atlanta area were charged in U.S. District Court in Providence, R.I., with allegedly participating in online romance scams that bilked more than two dozen people, most of them elderly, out of more than two million dollars.
Major strides have already been made to that end:
- National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833-FRAUD-11
Earlier this year Attorney General Barr launched a National Elder Fraud Hotline. Staffed by experienced case managers who provide personalized support to callers, the hotline serves to assist elders and caretakers who believe they have been a victim of fraud by reporting and providing appropriate services.
- Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force: Established in June 2019 to combat foreign elder fraud schemes, the Strike Force is composed of the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and six U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along with FBI special agents, Postal Inspectors, and numerous other law enforcement personnel. Since its inception, prosecutors in Strike Force districts brought cases against more than 140 sweep defendants, including a Pawtucket, RI, man who admitted to participating in an international telemarking scam operating out of Jamaica whose elder victims were contacted by telephone and told they have won cash or prizes in a lottery or sweepstakes. However, they are told their winnings will not be released to them without upfront payment of taxes or fees.
- Annual Elder Justice Sweep: In March of this year, the Attorney General announced the largest coordinated sweep of elder fraud cases in department history. The Department, together with every U.S. Attorney’s office, charged more than 400 defendants, causing over $1 billion in loss through fraud schemes that largely affected seniors.
- Money Mule Initiative: Since October 2018, the Department and its law enforcement partners began a concentrated effort across the country and around the world to disrupt, investigate, and prosecute money mule activity used to facilitate fraud schemes, especially those victimizing senior citizens. In 2019 actions were taken to halt the conduct of more than 600 domestic money mules, exceeding a similar effort against approximately 400 mules in the previous year.
- Holding foreign-based perpetrators and those that flee the United States accountable: Transnational criminal organizations are targeting our elder population in schemes including mass mailing fraud, grandparent scams, romance scams, lottery and sweepstakes scams, IRS and Social Security Administration imposter scams, and technical-support scams.
For more information on enforcement actions, training and resources, research, and victim services, please visit www.justice.gov/elderjustice.
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Department of Justice Announces Launch of Civil Rights Reporting PortalRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice today announced the launch of the Civil Rights Reporting Portal. This new online tool will make it easier for the public to report a civil rights violation.
“The department is committed to upholding the civil and constitutional rights of all people in the United States,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Reporting Portal will make it easier for the public to connect with us, which in turn makes us more effective at upholding these important rights. I encourage the public to use this portal to report civil rights violations.”
The new Civil Rights Reporting Portal – located at civilrights.justice.gov – will consolidate over 30 unique reporting pathways. The portal will dramatically ease the burden on victims of civil rights violations to identify the proper reporting channel. The form is fully accessible to people with disabilities. It is also available in both English and Spanish, with more languages to be added over the next year.
Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of civil rights violations can learn how to report violations by visiting civilrights.justice.gov.
If you believe that you are a victim of criminal civil rights violations, such as misconduct by law enforcement officers, hate crimes, or human trafficking, please contact your local FBI office.