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Friday 3 April 2020
U.S. Attorney Brady Announces Nearly $60 Million in Grants Available to Support Prisoners’ Successful Reentry into Their CommunitiesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady today announced that nearly $60 million in Department of Justice grants is available to support the successful reentry of justice involved individuals into communities. These funding opportunities are available for state and local governments, non-profit and for profit organizations, and institutes of higher education to support the successful reentry of adult and juvenile offenders into their communities.
"Ensuring the safe and successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals is an important component of our crime reduction strategy," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "These grants provide communities with the opportunity to develop and implement comprehensive and collaborative programs that effectively serve the needs of reentrants."
"Our nation is facing difficult public safety challenges that demand strong and immediate action. The high rate of recidivism poses a dire threat to community safety and is being met with a robust response by this Administration," said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. "The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this persistent challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions."
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including adult and juvenile reentry initiatives and research projects designed to improve our knowledge of what works in reentry programming.
A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future.
Correctional Adult Reentry Education, Employment, and Recidivism Reduction Strategies Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17104
Total Available $7.2 million Deadline 4/27/2020
Improving Community Supervision Outcomes Through Swift, Certain, and Fair Responses
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17096
Total Available $3 million Deadline 4/28/2020
Improving Reentry for People with Substance Use Disorders Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/SCASUD20
Total Available $13.2 million Deadline 4/27/2020
Innovations in Reentry Initiative: Building System Capacity & Testing Strategies to Reduce Recidivism
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17281
Total Available $4 million Deadline 5/4/2020
Research and Evaluation on Promising Reentry Initiatives
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17295
Total Available $6 million Deadline 5/5/2020
Review and Validation of the First Step Act Risk Assessment Tool
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-fsa
Total Available: Determined after selection Deadline 4/10/2020
Second Chance Act Community-Based Reentry Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17110
Total Available $13.5 million Deadline 5/4/2020
Second Chance Act Evaluation Participation Support
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17680
Total Available $4 million Deadline 4/28/2020
Second Chance Act Youth Offender Reentry Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/media/document/ojjdp-2020-17350.pdf
Total Available $7 million Deadline 4/28/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.
For resources and additional information on applying for OJP grant opportunities, please see the WDPA Grants Resource Page at https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/grants.
U.s. Attorney's Office and IRS Warn the Public About Scammers Targeting Economic Relief PaymentsRead the Press Release
Detroit, MI – U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider and Sarah Kull, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI) in Detroit, warned Michigan residents to watch out for scammers attempting to steal COVID-19 Economic Impact Payments.
”The people of Michigan will soon be receiving coronavirus relief checks and scammers are ready to take advantage of us,” stated United States Attorney Matthew Schneider. ”I urge everyone to protect themselves by hanging up on robocalls, ignoring online offers and fact-checking information before giving out any personal information. If you feel you’ve been the victim of a scam, please contact the federal hotlines listed below.”
“I urge the public not to fall victim to fraudsters attempting to steal Economic Impact Payments being sent out. The IRS will not call, text, email or otherwise contact you to ask for your information. This money is meant for you. Don’t fall victim to scammers,” said IRS Special Agent in Charge Kull.
The Treasury Department and the IRS announced that distribution of Economic Impact Payments will begin in the next three weeks and will be distributed automatically, with no action required for most people. Information from the 2018 or 2019 tax return, if filed, will be used to calculate payment. Most individuals do not need to take any action. Social Security beneficiaries who are not typically required to file tax returns will not need to file to receive a payment. Instead, payments will be automatically deposited into their bank accounts. The IRS will calculate and automatically send payment to those eligible. The IRS will deposit the economic relief check into the direct deposit account previously provided in the tax returns. If banking information was not provided, the IRS will send a check via mail. The IRS will NOT contact anyone to request banking info, will not ask for confirmation of personal information to send or expedite an economic impact payment, or require payment of a fee.
If anyone receives a call claiming to be from the IRS or any entity related to the Economic Impact Payment, the call is a scam and recipients should not engage with the scammer and absolutely should not give out bank account, debit account or PayPal account information-- even if the person claims it is necessary to get the relief check.
It will take a few weeks before the Treasury mails out the Economic Impact Payments. If a person receives a “check” for an odd amount or a check that requires verification of the check online or by calling a number, it is a fraud. U.S. Attorney Schneider and IRS Special Agent in Charge Kull reminded everyone to be vigilant about promptly collecting mail from their mailbox in order to prevent the theft of any economic relief checks delivered there.
Don’t be a victim! Visit www.irs.gov for the latest information on new scams and schemes. The IRS has set-up a “hotline” email address for Michigan residents to report fraud to the IRS: [email protected] To find out more about Department of Justice resources and information, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Residents can also report Suspected Fraud to the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 and [email protected] .
###Two Winnemucca Residents Charged with Conspiracy to Steal Multiple Firearms from Federal Firearms LicenseeRead the Press Release
RENO, Nev. — George Wyatt Elms and Travis Klyn made their initial appearances today for allegedly conspiring to steal dozens of firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Frederic D. Winston for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
As alleged in the complaint, on February 19, 2020, Elms, 31, and Klyn, 39, both Winnemucca residents, conspired to steal 25 firearms from an FFL in Winnemucca. Surveillance footage from that day depicted an individual — wearing what appears to be a clown mask — pacing back and forth, and shining a flashlight through a warehouse. According to video surveillance, three individuals were able to gain entry to the warehouse by first removing a panel in the roof. They dropped down approximately ten feet onto a nearby staircase, and then broke through a door. On surveillance video, one individual used a pickaxe to break the glass of a gun case, and the others loaded firearms into their backpacks.
Elms and Klyn are charged with one count of conspiracy to steal, take, or carry away firearms from the premises of an FFL. Elms is also charged with one count of theft of firearms from the premises of an FFL. Elms and Klyn appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Carla Baldwin, who scheduled a preliminary hearing on April 16, 2020.
If convicted, the statutory maximum sentence for conspiracy to steal, take, or carry away firearms from the premises of an FFL is five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, and theft of firearms from the premises of an FFL is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case is the product of an investigation by the ATF and the Winnemucca Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Rachow is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide program by the Department of Justice that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN. For more information about PSN, visit www.justice.gov/usao-nv.
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Two Rochester Men Arrested, Charged for Their Roles in Three Home InvasionsRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Robert Forbes, Jr., a/k/a Ra Ra, a/k/a Henny, 34, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with Hobbs Act robbery conspiracy, aiding and abetting the possession and discharge of a firearm in furtherance of, and carrying a firearm during and in relation to, a crime of violence, and aiding and abetting. In addition, Eric Lowe, 26, also of Rochester, was arrested and charged with Hobbs Act robbery and possession and brandishing of a firearm in furtherance of, and carrying and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to, a crime of violence. The Hobbs Act charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and the firearms charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, the defendants are facing charges for their roles in three home invasions in the City of Rochester:
• In the early morning hours of January 7, 2020, Rochester Police Officers responded to a home invasion at a residence on Glide Street in Rochester. When officers arrived, the victim stated that when he returned home with his girlfriend, he found two individuals, one who was armed with a handgun, inside his residence wearing ski masks. The victim advised investigators that a large gold chain, which had a unique medallion of Jesus on it, approximately one ounce of marijuana, a PlayStation, Apple IPad, and $600.00 cash was taken during the home invasion. In addition, the victim stated that the suspects kept asking where the money was.
• Late in the evening of March 25, 2020, Rochester Police Officers were dispatched to a residence on Avenue E in Rochester, for the report of another home invasion robbery. When officers arrived, the victim indicated that two males forced their way into her residence with handguns and robbed her. The victim stated she was tied up with a bed sheet and the suspects kept asking her where the drugs and money were.
• Just a few hours later, in the early morning hours of March 26, 2020, Rochester Police Officers were dispatched to a residence on Wellington Avenue in Rochester. One of the residents stated that the suspects began asking where the money and drugs were. One of the suspects held a knife to a female victim while the other pointed a gun at a male victim. The suspects eventually left the residence with a Gucci purse, which contained credit/debit cards and two Louis Vuitton wallets, a Sony PlayStation 4, two cell phones, a key fob for a Lexus parked in the driveway, and approximately $2,000.00 in cash.Later in the day on March 26, 2020, Forbes’ vehicle was stopped by police on Upper Falls Boulevard. A search of the vehicle located surgical masks in the glove box, a black ski mask in the front passenger door, and zip ties in the rear seat behind the rear center console, items commonly used in homes invasions.
On April 1, 2020, while conducting surveillance, officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop of a vehicle being driven by Forbes at North Clinton Avenue and Norton Street. Forbes immediately fled from officers and took them on a 13 minute, high-speed chase which ended when Forbes crashed into a marked Rochester Police car on West Ridge Road. After being taken into custody, police found 10 waxine baggies of a powdery substance which field-tested positive for the presence of heroin.
Eric Lowe was arrested on March 27, 2020. He made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Marian W. Payson and was detained. Robert Forbes was arrested on April 1, 2020. He made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was also detained.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief La’Ron Singletary; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Gary Loeffert.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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President’s Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice Holds Teleconferences Related to Social Problems Impacting Public SafetyRead the Press Release
This week, the President’s Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice held hearings on social problems impacting public safety, specifically homelessness, federal programming, and substance abuse. The hearings were held over three days via teleconference. Each teleconference featured a panel of expert witnesses who provided testimony and, subsequently, answered questions from the Commissioners.
On Tuesday, March 31, the Commission received testimony regarding homelessness from Salt Lake City (Utah) Police Chief Mike Brown; John Ashmen, President/CEO of Citygate Network, and; Chief Brian Redd of the Utah Department of Public Safety, State Bureau of Investigation.
Testimony and discussions focused on the intersection of public safety and homelessness. Chief Brown asserted that “law enforcement is consistently put in the position of triaging homelessness, which often is a symptom of underlying mental health and/or substance use issues.” John Ashmen, CEO of Citygate Network, suggested that the number of people experiencing homelessness in the United States “confirms that homeless services providers and the law enforcement community need to collaborate like never before.” Chief Brian Redd provided a detailed account of the successes of Operation Rio Grande, an initiative to address public safety issues in the Rio Grande District of downtown Salt Lake City near Utah’s 1,000-bed homeless shelter. An additional encampment of more than 2,000 individuals had formed around the shelter, resulting in an open-air drug market, violence, victimization, and public health concerns. The Operation deployed a three-pronged approach: law enforcement, treatment and housing, and dignity of work – designed to help individuals become self-sufficient.
The panelists also outlined the pressures law enforcement professionals are currently experiencing in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, whether mitigating the risks of the virus from hitting the homeless population or balancing public safety with prisoner safety.
On Wednesday, April 1, the Commission heard testimony regarding federal programming from Christopher M. Patterson, Regional Administrator of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in Region IX; Dr. Matt Miller, Acting Director for Suicide Prevention, Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and; Dr. Robert Marbut, Jr., Executive Director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness.
Testimony and discussions focused on federal programming for social issues. Chris Patterson of HUD spoke of the Foster Youth to Independence program. As youth age out of foster care, they become vulnerable to homelessness, trafficking, and other dangers. Mr. Patterson underscored that it is crucial to get youth into proper housing through a voucher program as they age out of the foster care system. Dr. Miller called attention to the term “lethal means safety,” which “refers to decreasing the mortality associated with certain forms commonly used to implement suicide.” He stated that suicide is often an impulsive act, further noting that the chances of suicide and death by suicide increase “up to six times” when individuals have access to firearms. Dr. Robert Marbut, Jr. argued that officers often have more success getting homeless into recovery programs through innovative law enforcement programs that feature constant engagement with those requiring assistance.
On Thursday, April 2, the Commission heard testimony regarding substance abuse from Carson Fox, CEO of the National Association of Drug Court Professionals; Mike Sena, Executive Director of the Northern California High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA); Middlesex County (Mass.) Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian; Sue J. DeLacy, Chief Deputy Probation Officer for the Orange County (Calif.) Probation Department, and; Michael B. Stuart, United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia.
Testimony and discussion focused on public safety and substance abuse. Mr. Fox asserted that law enforcement plays a role in the success of treatment courts across the nation. When law enforcement work side-by-side with other providers and agencies, it significantly affects the outcome. Mike Sena argued that to successfully address substance abuse in our communities, the public safety community needs real-time data. He suggested that HIDTA’s ODMap, which tracks real-time overdose data, be adapted nationwide. Sheriff Koutoujian addressed the need for Medicated Assisted Treatment programs to treat those who are experiencing opioid dependence throughout jail and prison systems nationwide. U.S. Attorney Stuart called attention to the opioid crisis in the Southern District of West Virginia. He called for a substantive discussion for developing a picture of what victory over substance abuse would look like.
For more information on the Commission, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/ag/presidential-commission-law-enforcement-and-administration-justice. Audio recordings and transcripts of the hearings will be posted online once available.
Please note, these hearings were originally to take place in person in Orange County, Calif., but were changed to teleconference format in response to CDC recommendations regarding Covid-19.
Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office and IRS Criminal Investigation Warn Taxpayers to be Alert for Scams Related to Covid-19 Economic Impact PaymentsRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Maryland U.S. Attorney Robert K. Hur and Special Agent in Charge Kelly R. Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) today warned taxpayers to be alert about possible scams relating to COVID-19, especially in connection with economic impact payments. The announcement is an effort to prevent taxpayers in need from being victimized by criminals using the recently approved payments as an opportunity to commit a crime.
U.S. Attorney Robert K. Hur stated, “My office and the entire law enforcement community are committed to bringing to justice fraudsters who are preying on citizens during this unprecedented public health crisis. We will also continue our outreach efforts to make the public aware of scams and frauds. I urge citizens to remain vigilant and to be skeptical of any telephone calls, e-mails, or websites that request personal information or banking information, while promising money or services that seem too good to be true.”
“During this time of crisis, scammers and thieves prey on those most vulnerable in our community in an attempt to personally benefit by stealing their money and personal identifying information,” said IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Kelly Jackson. “Please help us protect everyone in your community by telling family, friends and elderly neighbors to be on the lookout for these potential scams.”
In a matter of weeks, COVID-19 economic impact payments will be on their way. For most Americans, this will be a direct deposit into your bank account. For the unbanked individuals who have traditionally received tax refunds via paper check, they will receive their economic impact payment through the mail.
Scammers may try to get you to sign over your check to them or get you to “verify” your filing information in order to steal your money. Your personal information could then be used to file false tax returns in an identity theft scheme. Because of this, everyone receiving a COVID-19 economic impact payment is at risk.
U.S. Attorney Hur and Special Agent in Charge Jackson offer the following information and tips to spot a scam and understand how the COVID-19 related economic impact payments will be issued.
- The IRS will deposit your payment into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check).
- The IRS will NOT call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do NOT give your bank account number, debit account number, or PayPal account information to anyone—even if someone claims it's necessary to get your check. It's a scam.
- If you receive a call, do NOT engage with scammers, even if you want to tell them that you know it's a scam. Just hang up.
- If you receive texts or e-mails claiming that you can get your money faster by sending personal identifying information or clicking on links, delete these texts and e-mails. Do NOT click on any links in those texts or e-mails.
- Reports are swirling about bogus checks. If you receive a “check” in the mail now, it’s a scam. It will take the Treasury Department a few more weeks to mail out the COVID-19 economic impact payments. If you receive a “check” for an odd amount (especially one with cents), or a check that requires you to verify the check online or by calling a number, it’s a scam.
In these uncertain and trying times, we need to remain vigilant. Please help law enforcement protect your community by telling family, friends, and elderly neighbors to be on the lookout for these potential scams. You work hard for your money, do NOT become a victim of these scams. If something sounds too good to be true, it is probably fraudulent.
For more information, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/coronavirus or DOJ’s website at https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
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- The IRS will deposit your payment into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check).
Man Who Sold Heroin and Fentanyl Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
An Alabama man who sold heroin and fentanyl in Iowa was sentenced today to eight months in prison.
Torrance Brown, age 27, from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, received the prison sentence after a November 12, 2019 guilty plea to distribution of a controlled substance.
Information disclosed at sentencing and in a plea agreement showed that in July and August 2019, Brown sold a substance containing heroin and fentanyl on two occasions in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In total, Brown sold 1.54 grams of heroin in exchange for a total of $440. Cedar Rapids police officers attempted to arrest Brown in August 2019. However, Brown would not get out of his car or follow commands and a K-9 unit was required to get Brown out of his car.
Brown was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Brown was sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Corkery and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Cedar Rapids Police Department, and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 19-CR-94.
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Man Found with Gun and Drugs After Assaulting Woman Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Dubuque man who unlawfully possessed a loaded gun while a drug user was sentenced today to five years in prison.
Anthony Vincenzo Smith, age 27, from Dubuque, Iowa, received the prison sentence after an October 15, 2019 guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a drug user.
Information disclosed at sentencing and in a plea agreement showed that on May 19, 2019, Dubuque police officers were dispatched to a residence to investigate an assault. Officers spoke with a woman who Smith had punched in the head several times. The woman told officers that Smith had guns and drugs with him. Officers located Smith at a nearby hotel. They searched Smith’s hotel room and found a digital scale, a loaded magazine containing seven rounds of ammunition, a loaded Taurus PT709 handgun, $815 in United States currency, and 25.88 grams of cocaine. The gun had previously been reported stolen. Smith was under the influence of marijuana and cocaine at the time. He also admitted that he intended to distribute some of the cocaine in his possession. Smith has a prior felony drug conviction from 2014.
Smith was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Smith was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Corkery and investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from its Project Guardian partners. For more information about Project Guardian, please see /media/1122011/dl?inline.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 19-CR-1030.
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Lawton Bank Robbery Suspect ArrestedRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – John Scott Brooks, 36, of Lawton, has been arrested and charged with robbing the Southwest Oklahoma Federal Credit Union (SOFCU), announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.
According to an affidavit in support of a criminal complaint filed today, Brooks pulled into a drive-thru lane of SOFCU, located at 6714 West Gore Boulevard during the morning on March 23. He allegedly handed a demand note to a teller, along with what appeared to the teller to be an explosive device. Brooks then held up a tablet that was counting down time, and the teller then provided cash to Brooks. After bank surveillance photos were published in the media and a search warrant was executed at Brooks’ residence in Lawton, law enforcement obtained information that led to Brooks’ arrest yesterday.
Today, Brooks made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Suzanne Mitchell in Oklahoma City, and he was ordered detained pending further proceedings in the case. If found guilty of bank robbery, Brooks faces a maximum potential penalty of twenty years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000, and mandatory restitution.
This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation—Oklahoma City Field Office and the Lawton Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Kumeiga is prosecuting the case.
The public is reminded that this charge is merely an allegation and that Brooks is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Reference is made to public filings for more information. To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.
Lake Worth Businessman Pleads Guilty to Evading Taxes on Millions in Income, Stashing Funds in Secret Accounts Around the WorldRead the Press Release
A Lake Worth, Florida, businessman pleaded guilty today to tax evasion and willful failure to file a Report of Foreign Bank or Financial Account, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan for the Southern District of Florida.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Dusko Bruer owned and operated a company that bought U.S.-made agricultural machinery and parts and sold them throughout the world. Beginning in 2003, the company did not pay Bruer a salary. Instead, Bruer used millions of dollars from the company’s bank accounts to pay his personal expenses, make investments abroad, and make transfers to an employee and his family. From 2007 through 2011, Bruer transferred over $5.8 million of the company’s profits to foreign financial accounts. Bruer used the company’s profits to buy a yacht, purchase a waterfront home for his girlfriend and himself, purchase a home for an employee, and buy real property in Serbia. Between 2007 and 2014, Bruer failed to report more than $7.7 million in income and did not pay taxes of more than $2.7 million that were due to the United States.
Although Bruer’s company had a number of employees and reaped millions of dollars in profits, Bruer never filed a corporate tax return for the company nor did the company ever pay taxes on its income. Bruer also never filed employment tax returns during those years reporting wages that the company paid to its employees nor did the company withhold and pay over payroll taxes.
From 2007 through 2015, Bruer maintained financial accounts in Croatia, Germany, Serbia, and Switzerland. He did not report his ownership of the accounts to the Financial Crime Enforcement Network (FinCEN) by filing a Report of Foreign Bank or Financial Account (FBAR), despite knowing he had an obligation to do so. In 2010, an account he held at a subsidiary of Credit Suisse AG in Zurich, Switzerland reached a year-end high value of $6,177,586. Bruer used the assets in his foreign accounts for personal use, including the purchase of a yacht for $1,350,000 and a 3,200 square foot home in Lake Worth, Florida, with 100 feet of waterfront frontage for approximately $1,650,000.
From 1999 to 2014, Bruer never filed a personal tax return nor did he pay tax on his income. In 2015, Credit Suisse closed his account in Switzerland and advised him to enter the IRS’s Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Program (OVDP), by which taxpayers could avoid criminal prosecution by making a voluntary disclosure directly to IRS-Criminal Investigation, filing six years of delinquent or amended income tax returns, as well as delinquent or amended FBARs, paying back taxes, interest, and certain penalties on the six tax years in the disclosure period, and paying a penalty on the highest aggregate account balance of their noncompliant offshore assets. Bruer did not enter into the OVDP because he determined that the cost would be too high. Instead, Bruer made a “quiet” disclosure that involved filing several delinquent tax returns with the IRS, not flagging the returns in anyway or paying the taxes, penalties and interest that would be paid in OVDP.
The returns Bruer filed as part of his “quiet” disclosure were false because they disclosed only the funds he held in the Credit Suisse account and not the funds he held in the accounts in Croatia, Germany, Serbia, nor did they report the income he earned from his company.
United States District Court Judge Senior District Judge Kenneth A. Marra scheduled sentencing for June 12, 2020. Bruer faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison for each charge, three years of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Fajardo Orshan commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Senior Litigation Counsel Mark F. Daly of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Aurora Fagan, who are prosecuting the case. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and U.S. Attorney Fajardo Orshan also thanked the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Croatia for their assistance in this matter.
Additional information about the Tax Division’s enforcement efforts can be found on the division’s website.
Justice Department Settles Retaliation Claim Against Texas OrganizationRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice today announced that it has reached a settlement agreement with Southwest Key Programs (SKP), an organization that operates detention centers in several states, including Texas. The settlement resolves a claim that SKP retaliated against a former employee in violation of the antidiscrimination provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
“Employers should never retaliate against workers for stating that they will file a discrimination complaint with the government,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will vigorously pursue claims involving employers that retaliate against workers and we are pleased to have recovered financial compensation from Southwest Key Programs for the affected worker.”
According to the Department’s investigation, a former SKP employee applied for several jobs with SKP after receiving his renewed employment authorization documentation. However, an SKP human resource staffer told the former employee that SKP would not rehire him because he previously stated that he would file a discrimination complaint regarding a dispute about his employment documentation. The Department also concluded that the SKP staffer further retaliated against the former employee by spreading misinformation about him to SKP colleagues to prevent him from being rehired.
The INA’s antidiscrimination provision generally prohibits employers from retaliating against workers because they intend to file a discrimination complaint, or for exercising rights protected under that provision.
Under the terms of the settlement agreement, SKP will, among other things, give the former employee front pay, and back pay plus interest, totaling over $68,000; pay a civil penalty; train its workers; and be subject to departmental monitoring.
The Civil Rights Division’s Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER) is responsible for enforcing the antidiscrimination provision of the INA. Among other things, the statute prohibits discrimination against individuals who are authorized to work based on their citizenship status and national origin in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral for a fee; unfair documentary practices; retaliation; and intimidation.
Employers can find information on how to avoid unlawful discrimination based on citizenship status or national origin here. Workers can find information about their rights under the antidiscrimination provision of the INA here. For more information about protections against employment discrimination under the INA, call IER’s worker hotline at 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); call IER’s employer hotline at 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); sign up for a free webinar; email [email protected]; or visit IER’s English and Spanish websites. Subscribe to GovDelivery to receive updates from IER.
Applicants or employees who believe they were subjected to discrimination based on their citizenship, immigration status, or national origin in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral for a fee; discrimination in the employment eligibility verification process (Form I-9 and E-Verify) based on their citizenship, immigration status, or national origin; or retaliation can file a charge or contact IER’s worker hotline for assistance.
Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan and pleading not guilty on March 30 was:
Marc Buetow, 52, of San Diego, CA, on charges of conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession with intent to distribute. If convicted of the most serious crime, Buetow faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Buetow was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 18-89.
Appearing on April 2 was:
Courage Dane DeCrane, 20, of Pryor, on charges of aggravated sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact. If convicted of the most serious crime, DeCrane faces a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least five years to life of supervised release. DeCrane was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-16.
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston and pleading not guilty on March 31 was:
Amanda Jean Holland, 38, of Sunburst, on charges of theft of mail by postal employee and destruction of mail by postal employee. If convicted of the most serious crime, Holland faces a maximum five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years of supervised release. The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-16.
If any of the above cases are of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor the progress of the case regularly through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Federal, State, and Local Law Enforcement Warn Against Teleconferencing Hacking During Coronavirus PandemicRead the Press Release
As our country finds new ways of communicating during the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan residents have turned to video-teleconferencing (VTC) platforms, such as Zoom, to stay connected. Unfortunately, as the FBI reported this week, there has been a rise in the number of so-called “Zoom-bombing,” or video hacking across the United States. The State of Michigan has seen several instances of such hacking just this week. Hackers are disrupting conferences and online classrooms with pornographic and/or hate images and threatening language.
Michigan’s chief federal, state, and local law enforcement officials are joining together to warn anyone who hacks into a teleconference can be charged with state or federal crimes. Charges may include – to name just a few – disrupting a public meeting, computer intrusion, using a computer to commit a crime, hate crimes, fraud, or transmitting threatening communications. All of these charges are punishable by fines and imprisonment.
“You think Zoom bombing is funny? Let’s see how funny it is after you get arrested,” stated Matthew Schneider, United States Attorney for Eastern Michigan. “If you interfere with a teleconference or public meeting in Michigan, you could have federal, state, or local law enforcement knocking at your door.”
Western District of Michigan U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge advised video conference users: “Whether you run a business, a law enforcement meeting, a classroom or you just want to video chat with family, you need to be aware that your video conference may not be secure and information you share may be compromised. Be careful. If you do get hacked, call us.”
“It is a shame that during a pandemic which is causing fear and anxiety across the globe that there are wrongdoers seeking to disrupt virtual environments which have become essential to communication, teleworking and online learning,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven M. D’Antuono. “While Michiganders are sheltering in place, it is important to practice good cyber hygiene. We encourage our communities to visit fbi.gov or ic3.gov to learn more about tips they can take to keep their devices secure.”
“We were alerted to this problem by a Michigan reporter who participated in a Zoom conference that was hijacked,” stated Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. “Since then we have learned of other incidents around the country. There are steps people can take to protect their cybersecurity and we encourage all users to follow the proper procedures to ensure their teleconferences are secure.”
Robert Stevenson, Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police stated, “While the state is practicing social distancing, our law enforcement partners are coming together to help keep the people of Michigan safe during this crisis. Please report any incidents of hacking or any other type of fraud to your local, state or federal law enforcement agency.”
As individuals continue the transition to online lessons and meetings, law enforcement recommends exercising due diligence and caution in your cybersecurity efforts. The following steps can be taken to mitigate teleconferencing threats:
- Do not make the meetings or classroom public. In Zoom, there are two options to make a meeting private: require a meeting password or use the waiting room feature and control the admittance of guest.
- Do not share a link to a teleconference or classroom on an unrestricted publicly available social media post. Provide the link directly to specific people.
- Manage screensharing options in Zoom, change screensharing to “Host Only.”
- Ensure users are using the updated version of remote access/meeting applications. In January, 2020, Zoom updated their software. In their security update, the teleconference software provider added passwords by default for meetings and disabled the ability to randomly scan for meetings to join.
- Lastly, ensure that your organization’s telework policy or guide addresses requirements for physical and information security.
If you were a victim of a teleconference hijacking, or any cyber-crime for that matter, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx. Click here for more information regarding teleconference hijacking: https://www.ic3.gov/media/2020/200401.aspx.
Additionally, if you receive a specific threat during a teleconference, please report it to the FBI at https://tips.fbi.gov/ or call the FBI Detroit Division at (313) 965-2323.
Federal, State and Local Law Enforcement Warn Against Teleconferencing Hacking During Coronavirus PandemicRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN - As our country finds new ways of communicating during the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan residents have turned to video-teleconferencing (VTC) platforms, such as Zoom, to stay connected. Unfortunately, as the FBI reported this week, there has been a rise in the number of so-called "Zoom-bombing," or video hacking across the United States. The State of Michigan has seen several instances of such hacking just this week. Hackers are disrupting conferences and online classrooms with pornographic and/or hate images and threatening language.
Michigan’s chief federal, state, and local law enforcement officials are joining together to warn anyone who hacks into a teleconference can be charged with state or federal crimes. Charges may include – to name just a few – disrupting a public meeting, computer intrusion, using a computer to commit a crime, hate crimes, fraud, or transmitting threatening communications. All of these charges are punishable by fines and imprisonment.
"You think Zoom bombing is funny? Let’s see how funny it is after you get arrested," stated Matthew Schneider, United States Attorney for Eastern Michigan. "If you interfere with a teleconference or public meeting in Michigan, you could have federal, state, or local law enforcement knocking at your door."
Western District of Michigan U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge advised video conference users: "Whether you run a business, a law enforcement meeting, a classroom or you just want to video chat with family, you need to be aware that your video conference may not be secure and information you share may be compromised. Be careful. If you do get hacked, call us."
"It is a shame that during a pandemic which is causing fear and anxiety across the globe that there are wrongdoers seeking to disrupt virtual environments which have become essential to communication, teleworking and online learning," said Special Agent in Charge Steven M. D’Antuono. "While Michiganders are sheltering in place, it is important to practice good cyber hygiene. We encourage our communities to visit fbi.gov or ic3.gov to learn more about tips they can take to keep their devices secure."
"We were alerted to this problem by a Michigan reporter who participated in a Zoom conference that was hijacked," stated Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. "Since then we have learned of other incidents around the country. There are steps people can take to protect their cybersecurity and we encourage all users to follow the proper procedures to ensure their teleconferences are secure."
Robert Stevenson, Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police stated, "While the state is practicing social distancing, our law enforcement partners are coming together to help keep the people of Michigan safe during this crisis. Please report any incidents of hacking or any other type of fraud to your local, state or federal law enforcement agency."
As individuals continue the transition to online lessons and meetings, law enforcement recommends exercising due diligence and caution in your cybersecurity efforts. The following steps can be taken to mitigate teleconferencing threats:
• Do not make the meetings or classroom public. In Zoom, there are two options to make a meeting private: require a meeting password or use the waiting room feature and control the admittance of guest.
• Do not share a link to a teleconference or classroom on an unrestricted publicly available social media post. Provide the link directly to specific people.
• Manage screensharing options in Zoom, change screensharing to "Host Only."
• Ensure users are using the updated version of remote access/meeting applications. In January, 2020, Zoom updated their software. In their security update, the teleconference software provider added passwords by default for meetings and disabled the ability to randomly scan for meetings to join.
• Lastly, ensure that your organization’s telework policy or guide addresses requirements for physical and information security.
If you were a victim of a teleconference hijacking, or any cyber-crime for that matter, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx. Click here for more information regarding teleconference hijacking: https://www.ic3.gov/media/2020/200401.aspx.
Additionally, if you receive a specific threat during a teleconference, please report it to the FBI at https://tips.fbi.gov/ or call the FBI Detroit Division at (313) 965-2323.
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El Departamento de Justicia Resuelve una Denuncia contra una Organización en Tejas Motivada por RepresaliasRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, D.C. – El Departamento de Justicia anunció hoy que ha llegado a un acuerdo conciliatorio con Southwest Key Programs (SKP), una organización que opera centros de detención en varios estados, entre ellos Tejas. El acuerdo resuelve una denuncia que afirmó que SKP había tomado represalias contra un exempleado, en contra de la disposición antidiscriminatoria de la ley de Inmigración y Nacionalidad («INA», por sus siglas en inglés).
«Los empleadores nunca deben tomar represalias contra un trabajador porque el mismo haya declarado que va a presentar una denuncia de discriminación ante el Gobierno», afirmó Eric Dreiband, el Fiscal General Auxiliar de la División de Derechos Civiles. «El Departamento de Justicia seguirá persiguiendo enérgicamente denuncias relacionadas con empleadores que toman represalias contra sus trabajadores por haber hecho valer sus derechos y nos complace haber recuperado compensación monetaria de Southwest Key Programs para el trabajador afectado».
Según la investigación del Departamento, un exempleado de SKP había solicitado varios puestos con SKP tras recibir su documentación renovada de autorización para trabajar. No obstante, un miembro del personal de recursos humanos de SKP le dijo al exempleado que SKP no lo iba a recontratar por haber declarado anteriormente que iba a presentar una denuncia de discriminación motivada por una discusión acerca de su documentación de empleo. Más aún, el Departamento concluyó que el miembro del personal de SKP tomó represalias adicionales contra el exempleado al difundir mala información errónea sobre él ente colegas de SKP para prevenir que fuera recontratado. Por lo general, la disposición antidiscriminatoria de la INA prohíbe que los empleadores tomen represalias contra sus trabajadores porque los mismo tengan la intención de presentar una denuncia de discriminación o por haber hecho valer sus derechos en virtud de esa disposición.
Conforme a los términos del acuerdo conciliatorio, entre otras cosas, SKP pagará pagos anticipados, y pagos retroactivos más intereses, al exempleado, un total que asciende a 68.000 $; pagará una sanción civil; capacitará a sus trabajadores y se someterá a la supervisión del Departamento.
La Sección de Derechos de Inmigrantes y Empleados (IER, por sus siglas en inglés) es responsable de hacer cumplir la disposición antidiscriminatoria de la INA. Entre otras cosas, la ley prohíbe que se discrimine a individuos que cuentan con la debida autorización para trabajar con base en su estatus de ciudadanía y nacionalidad de origen en los procesos de contratación, despido o reclutamiento o recomendación por comisión; las prácticas documentales injustas; las represalias o la intimidación.
Los empleadores encontrarán más información sobre cómo evitar la discriminación ilícita por motivos de estatus de ciudadanía o nacionalidad de origen aquí. Los trabajadores encontrarán más información acerca de sus derechos en virtud de la disposición antidiscriminatoria de la INA aquí. Para más información sobre las protecciones que ofrece la INA contra la discriminación en el empleo, llame a la línea directa de la IER para trabajadores al 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY para personas con discapacidades auditivas); inscríbase a un seminario en línea gratuito; envíe en correo electrónico a [email protected]; o visite las páginas web de la IER en inglés y español. Para recibir las últimas noticias de la IER, inscríbase a GovDelivery.
Aquellos aspirantes o empleados que creen haber sido sometidos a: discriminación por motivos de su ciudadanía, estatus migratorio o nacionalidad de origen en los procesos de contratación, despido o reclutamiento o recomendación por comisión; discriminación en el proceso de la verificación de la elegibilidad para trabajar (Formulario I-9 e E-Verify) con base en su ciudadanía, estatus migratorio o nacionalidad de origen; o represalias pueden presentar una denuncia o deben llamar a la línea directa de la IER para trabajadores para pedir ayuda.
Dominican National Charged with Unlawful Reentry Following Alleged Involvement in Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominical national was arrested and charged today with one count of unlawful re-entry of a deported alien.
Joel Perez Matos, 35, who resided in Boston, was charged with unlawfully re-entering the United States after being deported. According to the charging documents, Perez Matos unlawfully re-entered the United States after being deported in December 2019. Perez Matos had previously been removed in February 2016, and had unlawfully returned to the United States later that year. Following his appearance in federal court today, Perez Matos was detained.
According to court documents, on March 22, 2020, within a few months of having been removed from the United States, Perez Matos was arrested by the Stow Police Department and charged with a heroin-related offense. At the time of his arrest, Perez Matos was in possession of a cell phone that had allegedly been used the previous day to set up a drug transaction with a Massachusetts resident. On March 22, 2020, that resident died of an apparent drug overdose. When arrested, Perez Matos presented police with an out-of-state driver’s license in a fake name.
Perez Matos faces a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Marcos D. Charles, Acting Field Office Director, Enforcement and Removal Operations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Boston, made the announcement today. The Stow Police Department also provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Abely, Deputy Chief of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the case
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Department of Justice makes $850 million available to help public safety agencies address COVID-19 pandemicRead the Press Release
Indianapolis – The Department of Justice announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has presented Indiana law enforcement and first responders with challenges they have not seen before.” said United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler. “They are on the frontlines for the citizens of Indiana and deserve to be protected. This funding will help keep our public safety professionals safe.”
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://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
Department of Justice Makes $850 Million Available to Public Safety Agencies to Aid Covid-19 ResponseRead the Press Release
PORTLAND—This week, the Department of Justice announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. State, local and tribal law enforcement agencies in Oregon are eligible to receive nearly $10 million in supplemental funding.
The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation passed by the Congress and signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately to receive these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available within days.
“In a matter of weeks, I have seen countless examples from across our state and country of law enforcement officers and other public safety professionals going far above and beyond their regular duties to serve our communities in this time of great need,” said U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams. “I’m pleased to join the department in announcing this much needed funding and will do everything in my power to expedite its distribution to eligible law enforcement agencies here in Oregon.”
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund applicants on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, purchase protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program recipient agencies are candidates for direct emergency funding. A complete list of jurisdictions eligible for direct funding and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
Jurisdictions not eligible for direct funding are advised to contact the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission to determine how they can receive funding through the state distribution.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://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.
Department of Justice Makes $850 Million Available to Help Public Safety Agencies Address the COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT/LAFAYETTE/ALEXANDRIA/LAKE CHARLES/MONROE, La. – U.S. Attorney David C. Joseph announced today that the Department of Justice is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
The State of Louisiana is eligible to apply for $9,688,333 to distribute throughout the state. In addition, law enforcement agencies in Louisiana that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations. The amount allocated for these Louisiana agencies is $5,039,792.
“Law enforcement officers and first responders are working harder than ever during this crisis and need our support,” said U.S. Attorney Joseph. “The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding (CESF) Program will provide them additional financial support as we battle the coronavirus pandemic. This funding will fund overtime and new hiring, buy personal protective equipment, provide training, pay for travel expenses, and address the medical needs of inmates in Louisiana’s jails and detention centers.”
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to January 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.
Attachments:
- BJA FY 2020 Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding State
- FY 2020 Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Allocations - State
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 Makes $850 Million Available to Help Public Safety Agencies Address COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
BOISE – The Department of Justice announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
There are 16 eligible county and municipal government agencies throughout Idaho with eligible program allocations ranging from $33,705 to $363,360. The total available award amount for Idaho is $1,567,287.
“Amidst waning resources and challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, local agencies must continue their mission critical work,” said U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis. “I am pleased the Department of Justice has made more than $1.5 million available for Idaho’s front line responders. Providing this emergency funding to our public safety partners will help reinforce their essential mission of keeping Idaho communities safe.”
“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://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.
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DOJ Makes $850 Million Available to Help Public Safety Agencies Address Covid-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that $5,382,711 in grant funding has been made available to Alaska public safety agencies to help them address the COVID-19 pandemic.
This is part of the Department of Justice’s announcement in making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
“Now more than ever, it is important that our state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners have the resources they need to ensure our communities are safe during this pandemic,” said Bryan Schroder, U.S. Attorney for the District of Alaska. “I strongly encourage our front-line public safety professionals to apply for these funds, which could be used for protective equipment and supplies that can save lives.”
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
Alaska’s allocation as well as other state/territory allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh186/files/media/document/fy20-cesf-state-allocations.pdf. In addition to the state’s allocation, several Alaska jurisdictions that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are also eligible to apply to BJA for additional emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.
Cedar Rapid Man Sentenced to More Than a Decade in Prison for Helping Bring Meth to IowaRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who worked with others to bring drugs from California to Iowa was sentenced today to more than eleven years in federal prison.
Kasey Charles Konzem, age 43, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a July 15, 2019, guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
In a plea agreement, Konzem admitted going to California with another individual who brought pounds of methamphetamine back to Iowa. Konzem also admitted sending money transfers to facilitate the drug trafficking. Konzem’s criminal history includes a 2002 conviction for inflicting corporal injury upon a spouse or cohabitant, battery, burglary, and multiple theft offenses. Konzem has previously been convicted for drug offenses in California and Iowa.
Konzem was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Konzem was sentenced to 140 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Konzem is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Nydle and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force consisting of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 19-CR-0023.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Thursday 2 April 2020
Wasilla Man Charged with Identity Theft and False StatementsRead the Press Release
Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder announced today that Jay Osmond Gardner, 55, of Wasilla, has been charged with identify theft and false statements, after allegedly obtaining a state ID using the identification of another individual to travel interstate and avoid contact with law enforcement. Gardner was a person of interest in a homicide investigation and had multiple warrants out for his arrest.
According to the charging document, on Dec. 3, 2019, Gardner was contacted by law enforcement at his Wasilla residence regarding an unrelated investigation being conducted by the Alaska State Troopers. Gardner’s sister, Cher Jammes, who lived in a trailer on the same property, was also interviewed by law enforcement.
Gardner’s true Alaska state ID card was issued in his birth name and identity of Jay Osmond Gardner on March 1, 2019. It is alleged that, on Jan. 22, 2020, a renewal of an Alaska state ID was issued to Gardner after he fraudulently presented himself to be Cher Jammes, in name and appearance.
On March 25, 2020, Gardner allegedly presented the fraudulently obtained ID card to several Alaska Airlines employees at the Anchorage Airport in an attempt to check in for a flight reserved in the name of Cher Jammes. While attempting to check in for the flight, Gardner was approached by an AST investigator and a Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Gardner was asked to verify him name, boarding pass, and identification. In doing so, Gardner stated his name was Cher Jammes and presented the fraudulent ID card, but asked to be called “Janey” because he was teased while growing up with the name Cher. Gardner was subsequently arrested and is currently in federal custody.
If the public has any further information regarding Gardner and any suspected criminal activity, please contact the Alaska State Troopers at (907) 746-9111.
If convicted, Gardner faces a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in federal prison. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Alaska State Troopers (AST) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander.
The charges in the criminal complaint are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
WARNING: Potential Fraud Scams Surrounding COVID-19/Economic Impact PaymentsRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The United States Attorney’s Office and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) warned Kentucky taxpayers today to be alert about possible scams relating to COVID-19 economic impact payments.
U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman and Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI Cincinnati Field Office, made the announcement today in an effort to prevent taxpayers in need from being victimized a second time by criminals using the recently approved payments as an opportunity to commit a crime.
“Despite the uncertainty of recent events, some things remain crystal clear: the men and women of federal law enforcement remain on the job to protect Kentucky families; dedicated and talented special agents of IRS Criminal Investigative Division and career federal prosecutors stand ready to protect the tax payer,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Please consult the safety tips to stop fraud before it happens.”
“Ruthless criminals will take this opportunity to prey upon our fears in order to try and line their own pockets by stealing your money or your personal information,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office.”
COVID-19 economic impact payments will be on their way in a matter of weeks. For most Americans, this will be a direct deposit into your bank account. For the unbanked, elderly or other groups we have traditionally seen receive tax refunds via paper check, they will receive their economic impact payment in this manner as well.
Scammers may try to get you to sign over your check to them or use this as an opportunity to get you to “verify” your filing information in order to receive your money, using your personal information at a later date to file false tax returns in an identity theft scheme. Because of this, everyone receiving money from the government from the COVID-19 economic impact payment is at risk.
United States Attorney Coleman and Special Agent in Charge Jackson offer the following information and tips to spot a scam and understand how the COVID-19 related economic impact payments will be issued.
- The IRS will deposit your check into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check).
- The IRS will not call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do not give out your bank account, debit account, or PayPal account information - even if someone claims it's necessary to get your check. It's a scam.
- If you receive a call, don't engage with scammers or thieves, even if you want to tell them that you know it's a scam, or you think that you can beat them. Just hang up.
- If you receive texts or emails claiming that you can get your money faster by sending personal information or clicking on links, delete them. Don't click on any links in those emails.
- Reports are also swirling about bogus checks. If you receive a “check” in the mail now, it’s a fraud - it will take the Treasury a few weeks to mail those out. If you receive a “check” for an odd amount (especially one with cents), or a check that requires that you verify the check online or by calling a number, it’s a fraud.
Don’t become a victim by allowing criminals to exploit your emotions. Stay strong, tell your family, friends and neighbors about these scams.
For more information, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/coronavirus.
Virginia Coronavirus Fraud Task Force, IRS-CI Warn of Potential COVID-19 Economic Impact Payment ScamsRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – The Virginia Coronavirus Fraud Task Force and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI) are warning taxpayers to be alert about possible scams relating to COVID-19 economic impact payments.
United States Attorneys Thomas T. Cullen and G. Zachary Terwilliger, along with Kelly R. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI Washington DC Field Office, made the announcement today in an effort to prevent taxpayers in need from being victimized by criminals using the recently approved payments as an opportunity to commit a crime.
“During this time of crisis, scammers and thieves prey on those most vulnerable in our community in an attempt to personally benefit by stealing their money and personal identifying information,” Special Agent in Charge Jackson said today. “Please help us protect everyone in your community by telling family, friends and elderly neighbors to be on the lookout for these potential scams.”
“While most act selflessly and responsibly in a crisis like this, there are fraudsters out there who are attempting to scam and exploit good people,” said U.S. Attorney Terwilliger. “We are likely to see an uptick in government check scams tied to coronavirus-relief, including advanced-fee schemes promising government relief checks, student loan relief, and adjustments in other government benefits, such as increased social security payments. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
“As we have seen over the past few weeks, the worst among us are finding new ways to exploit a global pandemic and prey upon the vulnerable,” said U.S. Attorney Cullen. “Americans need to be extremely vigilant in protecting their personal, financial, and tax information. Assume all unsolicited phone calls and emails regarding IRS or COVID-19 refunds and are potentially fraudulent. Do not respond and report them to law enforcement.”
In a matter of weeks, COVID-19 economic impact payments will be on their way. For most Americans, this will be a direct deposit into your bank account. For the unbanked individuals who have traditionally received tax refunds via paper check, they will receive their economic impact payment through the mail.
Scammers may try to get you to sign over your check to them or get you to “verify” your filing information in order to steal your money. Your personal information could then be used to file false tax returns in an identity theft scheme. Because of this, everyone receiving a COVID-19 economic impact payment is at risk.
Special Agent in Charge Jackson offers the following information and tips to spot a scam and understand how the COVID-19 related economic impact payments will be issued.
- The IRS will deposit your payment into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check).
- The IRS will NOT call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do NOT give your bank account, debit account, or PayPal account information to anyone - even if someone claims it’s necessary to get your check. It’s a scam.
- If you receive a call, do NOT engage with scammers, even if you want to tell them that you know it’s a scam. Just hang up.
- If you receive texts or emails claiming that you can get your money faster by sending personal identifying information or clicking on links, delete these texts and emails. Do NOT click on any links in those texts or emails.
- Reports are swirling about bogus checks. If you receive a “check” in the mail now, it’s a scam. It will take the Treasury a few more weeks to mail out the COVID-19 economic impact payments. If you receive a “check” for an odd amount (especially one with cents), or a check that requires you to verify the check online or by calling a number, it’s a scam.
- Remember, the federal government will not ask you to pay anything up front to get a legitimate benefit. No fees. No charges. Anyone who asks for an up-front payment for a promised benefit is a scammer.
The Virginia Coronavirus Fraud Task Force:
https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdva/covid-19-fraud
Western Virginia Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator, Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Baudinet, [email protected] or 540-278-1494.
Eastern Virginia Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator, Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin G. Cooke, [email protected] or 804-819-5416.
To report a COVID-19 fraud scheme or suspicious activity, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) by calling the NCDF Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or sending an email to [email protected].
For more information, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/coronavirus
FBI at: https://www.ic3.gov or 804-261-1044.
To report fraudulent activity to the Virginia State Police, Virginians can contact the Virginia Fusion Center (VFC) at [email protected].
For continuing information on the COVID-19 virus and the federal response, check https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
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United States prevails in lawsuit by State of New Mexico and City of Albuquerque challenging Department of Homeland Security’s policies for parole of asylum seekersRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – United States Attorney John C. Anderson announced today that the federal government has prevailed in a lawsuit filed by the State of New Mexico and the City of Albuquerque challenging the practices of the Department of Homeland Security and certain high-ranking federal immigration officials in temporarily paroling aliens seeking asylum in the United States.
United States District Judge James O. Browning dismissed the lawsuit on March 31 after finding DHS fully complied with the law. The court found DHS acted within its power and discretion by paroling aliens in New Mexico and elsewhere without providing them with travel assistance to other parts of the country.
The State of New Mexico and City of Albuquerque previously filed the lawsuit on June 10, 2019. In dismissing the lawsuit, the court found sovereign immunity protected the federal government from liability and the defendants’ claims were not reviewable under the Administrative Procedures Act. The court also found that the federal government’s policies satisfied the Due Process Clause and other constitutional standards.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Manuel Lucero represented the United States in this matter.
United States Attorney’s Office and IRS warn of possible economic impact payment scamsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman and Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI Cincinnati Field Office, Bryant Jackson, warned Ohioans today to be alert for possible scams related to upcoming economic impact payments made during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Everyone should expect that scammers will try to take advantage of this crisis and the upcoming economic impact payments,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “They will try to find a way to get recipients to divulge personal information such as a Social Security number or bank account information. Alternatively, fraudsters may try to pressure recipients into making phony payments or otherwise relinquishing funds. We are strongly encouraging everyone to be on high alert, both before and after the payments arrive, for potential scams.”
“Ruthless criminals will take this opportunity to prey upon our fears in order to try and line their own pockets by stealing your money or your personal information,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office.
The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service announced this week that COVID-19 economic impact payments will begin in the next three weeks. For many Americans, this will be done through direct deposit into their bank account. For the unbanked, elderly or other groups that have traditionally seen receive tax refunds via paper check, economic impact payments will be received similarly.
United States Attorney Herdman and Special Agent in Charge Jackson offer the following information and tips to spot a scam and understand how the COVID-19 related economic impact payments will be issued.
- The IRS will deposit your check into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check).
- The IRS will not call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do not give out your bank account, debit account, or PayPal account information - even if someone claims it's necessary to get your check. It's a scam.
- If you receive a call, don't engage with scammers or thieves, even if you want to tell them that you know it's a scam, or you think that you can beat them. Just hang up.
- If you receive texts or emails claiming that you can get your money faster by sending personal information or clicking on links, delete them. Don't click on any links in those emails.
- Be on the look-out for bogus checks. If you receive a “check” in the mail now, it’s a fraud - it will take the Treasury a few weeks to mail those out. If you receive a “check” for an odd amount (especially one with cents), or a check that requires that you verify the check online or by calling a number, it’s a fraud.
- Scammers will often attempt to trick you into signing over your stimulus check or pressure you into “verify” your filing information in order to receive your money. They will then use your personal information at a later date to file false tax returns.
Report fraud related to the COVID-19 crisis to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or email tips to the United States Attorney’s Office at [email protected]
For more information, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/coronavirus.
United States Attorney for the District of Columbia Timothy J. Shea Announces Launch of Metropolitan Area COVID-19 Anti-Fraud Task ForceRead the Press Release
The pandemic outbreak of COVID-19 poses an unprecedented threat to the public health and economic security of the District of Columbia and this country. Unfortunately, some have chosen to profit from public panic by exploiting vulnerable citizens—like the sick and elderly—and to take advantage of vital public institutions combatting the pandemic—including hospitals, urgent care providers, and emergency response agencies. The pandemic is dangerous enough without abusive scams and manipulations that prey on fear and undermine the heroic efforts of nurses, doctors, and others serving on the front lines of the public health crisis. Such conduct cannot be tolerated.
That is why the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is spearheading the formation of the Washington Metropolitan Area COVID-19 Anti-Fraud Task Force, a coalition of local and federal law enforcement agencies, Inspectors General, and the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia. The Task Force is committed to detecting, interfering with, and deterring fraud, price-gouging, hoarding schemes, and other wrongdoing aimed at capitalizing on the public health emergency. This collaboration will afford law enforcement the opportunity to communicate on investigative leads, leverage investigative resources, and deploy all available tools to address the threat, including criminal investigations and prosecutions and civil enforcement actions.
In announcing the formation of the Task Force, U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Shea stated, “The challenges posed by the spread of COVID-19 threaten the safety and security of the District of Columbia and our nation. We will not allow anyone to take advantage of our citizens during this public health emergency. We are committed to detecting, investigating, disrupting, and prosecuting these fraudsters and will devote whatever time, energy, and resources are necessary to do so. This Task Force is the centerpiece of this effort. I am grateful to our law enforcement partners, including Attorney General Racine and our federal partners throughout the Metropolitan Area for joining in this initiative. It is the least we can do to support the efforts of the front-line heroes combatting this crisis—nurses, doctors, emergency responders, and public health officials—who put their lives on the line each day.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is pleased to announce that the following agencies are part of the Task Force:
- District of Columbia, Office of the Attorney General
- District of Columbia, Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking
- District of Columbia, Enforcement & Consumer Protection Division
- District of Columbia, Office of Inspector General
- Federal Bureau of Investigation, Washington Field Office
- Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Washington Field Office
- Homeland Security Investigations, Washington Field Office
- Metropolitan Police Department, District of Columbia
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Office of Inspector General
- Pension Benefits Guaranty Corporation, Office of Inspector General
- United States Agency for International Development, Office of Inspector General
- United States Army Criminal Investigation Division, Washington-Metro Fraud Resident Agency
- United States General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Mid-Atlantic Division
- United States Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Washington, D.C. Resident Agency
- United States Department of Homeland Security, Office of the Inspector General, Major Frauds & Corruption Unit
- United States Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Washington Regional Office
- United States Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General
- United States Department of Treasury, Inspector General for Tax Administration
- United States Department of Treasury, Office of Inspector General
- United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Washington Division Office
- United States Postal Inspection Service
- United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General
- United States Secret Service, Washington Field Office
- United States Securities and Exchange Commission, Office of Inspector General
- United States Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General
- Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, Office of the Inspector General
The Task Force will work to identify scams aimed at exploiting fears and spreading disinformation about the pandemic. So far, law enforcement in the District of Columbia and throughout the country have received reports of individuals and businesses using the internet to sell fake cures for COVID-19, market products falsely claiming to mitigate COVID-19, and fraudulently retail COVID-19 supplies, such as face masks and hand sanitizer. There are also reports of suppliers hoarding vital supplies, such as personal protective equipment (PPE), and attempting to sell it at inflated prices. There also are reports of phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and reports of malware being inserted onto mobile apps designed to track the spread of the virus. Collaborating through the Task Force will position local and federal agencies to rapidly investigate such reports and put a stop to wrongdoing.
As part of this launch, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has already provided training via teleconference to local and federal law enforcement partners on criminal and civil enforcement measures available to combat COVID-19 fraud schemes, created a Pandemic Fraud Hotline through which citizens can report suspected scams via phone or email, released multiple consumer advisories, and begun to share investigative leads.
These steps are in line with the U.S. Attorney General’s direction to prioritize the detection, investigation, and prosecution of all criminal conduct related to the current pandemic. The Task Force will work in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Justice’s broader federal effort to address price gouging and hoarding schemes through the COVID-19 Anti-Hoarding and Anti-Price Gouging Task Force led by the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey.
Citizens and others who suspect fraud or other criminal wrongdoing related to the pandemic should report it to the COVID-19 Pandemic Fraud Hotline by phone at 202-252-7022 or by email at [email protected]. District of Columbia residents can also submit complaints of suspected scams to the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia by calling its Consumer Protection Hotline at 202-442-9828 or by emailing [email protected].
United States Attorney William M. McSwain Announces More Than $36 Million Available to Fight Human Trafficking and Assist VictimsRead the Press Release
PHILADEPHIA, PA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that more than $36 million in Department of Justice grants are available to help communities combat human trafficking and serve adults and children who are victimized in trafficking operations.
“Human trafficking is horrific crime – one that strips victims of their dignity and often leaves them traumatized, with lasting physical and emotional scars,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “Human traffickers pose a serious threat to public safety, which is why the Department of Justice and my Office have made prosecution of these crimes a top priority. This is both a national and local problem, and these grants will help fund programs designed to assist those directly and indirectly affected by this serious issue.”
“Human traffickers pose a dire threat to public safety and countering this threat remains one of the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight against this insidious crime. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”
The funding is available through the Office of Justice Programs (OJP), the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local, and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs that support human trafficking task forces and services for human trafficking survivors.
The following funding opportunities are currently available, with several more coming in the near future:
- Missing and Exploited Children Training and Technical Assistance Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17351
Total Available: $1.8 million
Deadline: April 6, 2020
Through this program, OJP seeks to improve and expand the development and implementation of training and technical assistance on effective responses to missing and exploited children’s issues for multidisciplinary teams of prosecutors, state and local law enforcement, child protection personnel, medical providers, and other child-serving professionals. Additionally, this program will provide support for the implementation of all National Missing Children’s Day activities. The following entities are eligible to apply for and receive funds pursuant to this grant: nonprofit and for-profit organizations and institutes of higher education.
- Research and Evaluation on Trafficking in Persons
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17324
Total Available: $2.5 million
Deadline: April 20, 2020
Through this solicitation, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) – a research, development, and evaluation arm of the Department of Justice – continues to build upon its efforts to better understand, prevent, and respond to trafficking in persons in the United States. Applicants should propose research projects that, first and foremost, have clear implications for criminal justice policy and practice in the United States. NIJ is also particularly interested in research projects addressing both sex and labor trafficking. The following entities are eligible to apply for and receive funds pursuant to this grant: states (including territories); units of local government; federally recognized Indian tribal governments that perform law enforcement functions; nonprofit and for-profit organizations; and institutes of higher education.
- Specialized Training and Technical Assistance on Housing for Victims of Human Trafficking
https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-specialized-tta-on-housing-for-victims-of-human-trafficking.pdf
Total Available: $2 million
Deadline: May 14, 2020
The selected applicant will work with victim service providers assisting trafficking victims to identify challenges and opportunities to better meet the full range of housing needs of survivors of human trafficking. Priority support will be given to current grantees of the Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC). The selected applicant must be able to assist service providers on a national scale in leveraging existing federal, state, local, and private housing programs and initiatives that trafficking survivors may qualify for, and should demonstrate partnerships with relevant housing stakeholders. The following entities are eligible to apply for and receive funds pursuant to this grant: nonprofit, nongovernmental victims’ service organizations with the capacity to serve human trafficking victims.
- Improving Outcomes for Child and Youth Victims of Human Trafficking
https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-ht-improving-outcomes-for-child-and-youth.pdf
Total Available: $6 million
Deadline: May 18, 2020
OVC is seeking applications for states or tribes to develop, enhance, and coordinate programs and activities geared toward improving outcomes for child and youth victims of sex and labor trafficking. The overall goal of the program is to improve responses for child and youth victims of trafficking with a focus on coordination at the statewide or tribal jurisdiction level to create effective change across systems. The following entities are eligible to apply for and receive funding pursuant to this grant: states (including territories) and federally recognized Indian tribal governments.
- Integrated Services for Minor Victims of Labor Trafficking
https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-services-for-minor-victims-of-labor-trafficking.pdf
Total Available: $8 million
Deadline: May 18, 2020
The purpose of this program is to develop, expand, or strengthen victim service programs for minor victims of labor trafficking, whose victimization occurred when they were under the age of 18. Organizations funded under this program will provide (directly and through partnerships) services that minor victims of labor trafficking often require to address their needs for safety, security, and healing. The following entities are eligible to apply for and receive funding pursuant to this grant: states and territories; units of local government; Indian tribes; and nonprofit, nongovernmental victims’ services organizations with the capacity to serve human trafficking victims.
- Services for Victims of Human Trafficking
https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-services-for-victims-of-human-trafficking.pdf
Total Available: $16.5 million
Deadline: May 18, 2020
OVC is seeking applications to support services for victims of all forms of human trafficking throughout the United States. This program furthers the Department’s mission by enhancing the field’s response to victims of human trafficking. The following entities are eligible to apply for and receive funding pursuant to this grant: states and territories; units of local government; Indian tribes; and nonprofit, nongovernmental victims’ services organizations with the capacity to serve human trafficking victims.
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, please visit: https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.
United States Attorney William D. Hyslop Announces Efforts to Combat Covid-19 ScamsRead the Press Release
Spokane, Washington – William D. Hyslop, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that the United States Department of Justice has established a coordinated, nationwide response to allegations of a wide array of fraudulent and otherwise illegal schemes to exploit the national emergency caused by COVID-19 (the coronavirus).
United States Attorney Hyslop stated, “The U.S. Attorney’s Office, together with its law enforcement partners, is fully operational and is continuing to fulfill its public safety mission, including ferreting out COVID-19 fraud schemes. Essential law enforcement functions including investigations, the preparation and execution of warrants, filing of charges, and case litigation continue. Make no mistake, the Eastern District of Washington’s federal prosecutors and support staff are working with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement to safeguard our justice system and protect the safety and security of our nation during this challenging time.”
If you (or someone you know) believe you have been the target or victim of a coronavirus-related scam, you are strongly encouraged to make a report to the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline (866.720.5721), or to the NCDF email address ([email protected]). The NCDF is a national coordinating agency within the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division. The NCDF’s mission is to improve and further the detection, prevention, investigation, and prosecution of criminal conduct related to emergencies, such as the COVID-19 outbreak, and to advocate for the victims of such conduct. The NCDF Hotline is available to receive reports from the public of potential fraud 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Callers will be connected with a live operator or can leave a message detailing their report.
In addition, the public may also make such reports to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center by visiting www.IC3.gov. The FBI is alert to fraudsters attempting to exploit the COVID-19 outbreak. The FBI has extensive expertise in cybercrime and is presently monitoring issues relating to phishing attempts and efforts to infect emails, links, and postings with malware. Crime tips of any kind, including alleged civil rights violations, can be submitted to the FBI by visiting
tips.fbi.gov or by calling the FBI Seattle Field Office, which has a robust presence in Eastern Washington, at 206.622.0460. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington has appointed a Coronavirus Coordinator to: (a.) serve as the legal counsel on matters relating to the coronavirus in Eastern Washington; (b.) oversee prosecution of coronavirus-related cases; and (c.) support public outreach and awareness activities relating to the coronavirus.
Fraudsters devise numerous methods for defrauding people, such as creating websites, contacting people by phone and email, and posting disinformation on social media platforms. Examples of scams linked to COVID-19 include:
• Testing scams: Scammers are selling fake at-home test kits or going door-to-door performing fake tests for money.
• Treatment scams: Scammers are offering to sell fake cures, vaccines, and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19.
• Provider scams: Scammers are contacting people by phone and email, pretending to be doctors and hospitals that have treated a friend or relative for COVID-19, and demanding payment for that treatment.
• Phishing scams: Scammers posing as national and global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are sending phishing emails designed to trick recipients into downloading malware or providing personal identifying and financial information.
• App scams: Scammers are creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.
• Investment scams: Scammers are offering online promotions on various platforms, including social media, claiming that the products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19, and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These promotions are often styled as “research reports,” make predictions of a specific “target price,” and relate to microcap stocks, or low-priced stocks issued by the smallest of companies with limited publicly available information.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office again urges the public to report coronavirus-related scams and to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from known and emerging scams, such as:
• Independently verify the identity of any company, charity, or individual that contacts you regarding COVID-19.
• Check the websites and email addresses offering information, products, or services related to COVID-19. Be aware that scammers often employ addresses that differ only slightly from those belonging to the entities they are impersonating. For example, they might use “cdc.com” or “cdc.org” instead of “cdc.gov.”
• Be wary of unsolicited emails offering information, supplies, or treatment for COVID-19 or requesting your personal information for medical purposes. Legitimate health authorities will not contact the general public this way.
• Do not click on links or open email attachments from unknown or unverified sources. Doing so could download a virus onto your computer or device.
• Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer is operating and up to date.
• Ignore offers for a COVID-19 vaccine, cure, or treatment. Remember, if there is a medical breakthrough, you won’t hear about it for the first time through an email, online ad, or unsolicited sales pitch.
• Check online reviews of any company offering COVID-19 products or supplies. Avoid companies whose customers have complained about not receiving items.
• Research any charities or crowdfunding sites soliciting donations in connection with COVID-19 before giving. Remember, an organization may not be legitimate even if it uses words like “CDC” or “government” in its name or has reputable looking seals or logos on its materials. For online resources on donating wisely, visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website.
• Be wary of any business, charity, or individual requesting payments or donations in cash, by wire transfer, gift card, or through the mail. Don’t send money through any of these channels.
• Be cautious of “investment opportunities” tied to COVID-19, especially those based on claims that a small company’s products or services can help stop the virus. If you decide to invest, carefully research the investment beforehand. For information on how to avoid investment fraud, visit the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) website.
For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization www.who.int, and the Washington Department of Health www.doh.wa.gov websites.
U.S. Attorney, IRS warn of potential fraud scams surrounding COVID-19 economic impact paymentsRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The United States Attorney’s Office and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) warned Ohio taxpayers today to be alert about possible scams relating to COVID-19 Economic Impact Payments.
U.S. Attorney David M. DeVillers and Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-CI Cincinnati Field Office, made the announcement today in an effort to prevent taxpayers in need from being victimized by criminals using the recently approved federal payments as an opportunity to commit a crime.
“As your stimulus checks come in, so will the scams,” U.S. Attorney DeVillers said. “Beware of anyone seeking personal information in exchange for promises about your check.”
“Ruthless criminals will take this opportunity to prey upon our fears in order to try and line their own pockets by stealing your money or your personal information,” said Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office.”
COVID-19 economic impact payments will be issued in the coming weeks. For most Americans, the checks will be a direct deposit into a bank account. For the unbanked, elderly or other groups who have traditionally received tax refunds via paper check, they will receive their economic impact payment by paper check as well.
Scammers may try to get taxpayers to sign over their checks or “verify” filing information.
U.S. Attorney DeVillers and Special Agent in Charge Jackson offer the following information and tips to spot a scam and understand how the COVID-19 related economic impact payments will be issued:
- The IRS will deposit your check into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return (or, in the alternative, send you a paper check).
- The IRS will not call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do not give out your bank account, debit account, or PayPal account information – even if someone claims it's necessary to get your check. It's a scam.
- If you receive a call, don't engage with scammers or thieves, even if you want to tell them that you know it's a scam, or you think that you can beat them. Just hang up.
- If you receive texts or emails claiming that you can get your money faster by sending personal information or clicking on links, delete them. Do not click on the links.
- Bogus checks may also exist. If you receive a “check” in the mail now, it is not legitimate. Treasury checks have not yet been mailed. If you receive a “check” for an odd amount (especially one with cents), or a “check” requiring you to verify the “check” online or by calling a phone number, it is a fraud.
- The IRS will not ask you to send money before it will issue your economic impact payment. If someone asks you to send money to get your payment, do not send money.
For more information, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/coronavirus.
To report fraud related to the coronavirus, email [email protected] or call 1-866-720-5721.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and IRS Caution the Public About Scammers Targeting Economic Relief PaymentsRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, NC – Watch out for scammers attempting to steal your COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) Economic Impact Payments, is the warring issued today by U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray and Matthew D. Line, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI) in Charlotte.
“We continue to warn the public about scammers taking advantage of the Coronavirus crisis to line their own pockets. With economic relief payments soon on the way, scammers will get even more aggressive and more creative to get their hands on your money. Remain vigilant and warn your friends and family about COVID-19 scams. Also, do your part in helping us catch scammers and report suspected fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.
“I urge the public not to fall victim to fraudsters attempting to steal Economic Impact Payments being sent out. The IRS will not call, text, email or otherwise contact you to ask for your information. This money is meant for you. Don’t fall victim to scammers,” said Matthew D. Line, Special Agent in Charge, IRS-CI, Charlotte Field Office.
The Treasury Department and the IRS announced that distribution of Economic Impact Payments will begin in the next three weeks and will be distributed automatically, with no action required for most people. Information from 2018 or 2019 tax return, if filed, will be used to calculate payment. Most individuals do not need to take any action. The IRS will calculate and automatically send payment to those eligible.
The IRS will deposit the economic relief check into the direct deposit account previously provided in your tax returns. If banking information was not provided, the IRS will send you a check via mail. The IRS will NOT contact you to request your banking info, will not ask you to confirm personal information to send or expedite your economic impact payment, or require you to pay a fee.
If you receive a call claiming to be from the IRS or any entity related to the Economic Impact Payment, do not engage scammers or thieves. Do not give out your bank account, debit account or PayPal account information, even if someone claims it is necessary to get your check. It’s a scam!
It will take a few weeks before the Treasury mails out the Economic Impact Payments. If you receive a “check” for an odd amount or a check that requires you to verify the check online or by calling a number, it is a fraud. Also, be vigilant about collecting your mail soon after it is delivered, to prevent the theft of economic relief checks arriving in your mailbox.
Don’t be a victim! Education is the best way to avoid being defrauded by scammers. Visit www.irs.gov for the latest information on new scams and schemes. To find out more about Department of Justice resources and information, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
To report suspected fraud the Justice Department urges you to call the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline by calling 866-720-5721 or sending an email to [email protected].
U.S. Attorney's Office and IRS Warn the Public About Scammers Targeting Economic Relief PaymentsRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MI – U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge and Sarah Kull, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI) in Detroit, warned West Michigan residents to watch out for scammers attempting to steal COVID-19 Economic Impact Payments.
"With relief payments coming soon, we want people to be mindful that scammers are out there looking for ways to get their hands on those checks and personal account information. Remain vigilant, warn your friends and family about COVID-19 scams and report suspected fraudulent activity to the federal hotlines," said U.S. Attorney Birge.
"I urge the public not to fall victim to fraudsters attempting to steal Economic Impact Payments being sent out. The IRS will not call, text, email or otherwise contact you to ask for your information. This money is meant for you. Don’t fall victim to scammers," said IRS Special Agent in Charge Kull.
The Treasury Department and the IRS announced that distribution of Economic Impact Payments will begin in the next three weeks and will be distributed automatically, with no action required for most people. Information from the 2018 or 2019 tax return, if filed, will be used to calculate payment. Most individuals do not need to take any action. Social Security beneficiaries who are not typically required to file tax returns will not need to file to receive a payment. Instead, payments will be automatically deposited into their bank accounts. The IRS will calculate and automatically send payment to those eligible. The IRS will deposit the economic relief check into the direct deposit account previously provided in the tax returns. If banking information was not provided, the IRS will send a check via mail. The IRS will NOT contact anyone to request banking info, will not ask for confirmation of personal information to send or expedite an economic impact payment, or require payment of a fee.
If anyone receives a call claiming to be from the IRS or any entity related to the Economic Impact Payment, the call is a scam and recipients should not engage with the scammer and absolutely should not give out bank account, debit account or PayPal account information-- even if the person claims it is necessary to get the relief check.
It will take a few weeks before the Treasury mails out the Economic Impact Payments. If a person receives a "check" for an odd amount or a check that requires verification of the check online or by calling a number, it is a fraud. U.S. Attorney Birge and IRS Special Agent in Charge Kull reminded everyone to be vigilant about promptly collecting mail from their mailbox in order to prevent the theft of any economic relief checks delivered there.
Don’t be a victim! Visit www.irs.gov for the latest information on new scams and schemes. The IRS has set-up a "hotline" email address for Michigan residents to report fraud to the IRS: [email protected] To find out more about Department of Justice resources and information, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Residents can also report Suspected Fraud to the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 and [email protected] .
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U.S. Attorney Michael Bailey Announces More Than $83 Million Available to Support School SafetyRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – U.S. Attorney Michael Bailey today announced that more than $83 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities improve school security and protect students, teachers and faculty from threats of violence.
“School violence is no longer an abstract threat but has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities. Moving to meet this challenge is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to tighten school security and improve the reporting of threats.
A number of funding opportunities for school safety are currently open:
- Research and Evaluation on School Safety
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308
Total Available $5 million. Deadline 4/13/2020.
- STOP Act School Violence Program (FY20)
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308
Total Available $71.4 million. Deadline 4/13/2020.
- Strategies to Support Children Exposed to Violence
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17926
Total Available $7 million. Deadline 4/27/2020.
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.
RELEASE NUMBER: 2020-040_School Safety Grants
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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.- Research and Evaluation on School Safety
U.S. Attorney Keefe Announces More Than $163 Million Available to Fight Addiction CrisisRead the Press Release
TALLAHASSE, FLORIDA – Lawrence Keefe, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida,
today announced that communities across northern Florida are eligible to apply for a portion of
more than $163 million in Department of Justice grants nationwide to help communities across
America address the nation’s addiction crisis.“Our nation is facing the difficult challenge of curbing substance addiction, which threatens
public safety and is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T.
Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs (OJP).
“The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making
historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to
innovative and diverse solutions.”Added U.S. Attorney Keefe: “So much of the criminal activity in Northern Florida – from its urban
centers to the most rural areas – can be traced back to addiction. From the addicts who commit
crimes to support their habits to the dealers who keep them hooked, this is a scourge on every
community, and the grants available to help can make a meaningful impact across the District.”The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety
funding and crime victim assistance in state, local, and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs
support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to prevent overdose
deaths and break the cycle of addiction and crime.A number of funding opportunities that address the addiction crisis are currently open:
Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17098
Total Available $1.75 million Deadline 5/14/2020Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/COSSAP20
Total Available $27 million Deadline 5/21/2020Enhancing Community Responses to America's Addiction Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims
https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-enhancing-community-response-to-drug-crisis.pdf
Total Available: $19 million Deadline: 5/4/2020Family Drug Court Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17090
Total Available $18.2 million Deadline 4/8/2020 (Extended)Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17754
Total Available $28.1 Deadline 5/5/2020Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17051
Total Available $7.2 million Deadline 4/13/2020 (Extended)Mentoring Opportunities for Youth Initiative
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-16930
Total Available $48 million Deadline 4/13/2020Opioid Affected Youth Initiative
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17352
Total Available $9 million Deadline 4/20/2020Research and Evaluation on Drugs and Crime
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17275
Total Available $1 million Deadline 4/20/2020Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners
https://bja.ojp.gov/RSAT20
Total Available $4.5 million Deadline 4/6/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit
https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.
The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that
serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access
available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern
District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office,
Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Announces More Than $60 Million in Grants Available to Support Prisoners' Successful Reentry into Their CommunitiesRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that nearly $60 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address public safety by supporting successful reentry of adult and juvenile offenders into their communities.
"Our nation is facing difficult public safety challenges that demand strong and immediate action. The high rate of recidivism poses a dire threat to community safety and is being met with a robust response by this Administration," said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. "The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this persistent challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions."
"The U.S. Attorney’s office will continue to make a concerted effort to cooperate with our law enforcement and community partners to be both smart and tough on crime. Our office components include crime prevention, prosecution of serious and violent criminals, and the successful reentry of ex-offenders," said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey.
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including adult and juvenile reentry initiatives and research projects designed to improve our knowledge of what works in reentry programming.
A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future.
Correctional Adult Reentry Education, Employment, and Recidivism Reduction Strategies Program:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17104
Total Available $7.2 million Deadline 4/27/2020
Improving Community Supervision Outcomes Through Swift, Certain, and Fair Responses:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17096
Total Available $3 million Deadline 4/28/2020
Improving Reentry for People with Substance Use Disorders Program:
https://bja.ojp.gov/SCASUD20
Total Available $13.2 million Deadline 4/27/2020
Innovations in Reentry Initiative: Building System Capacity & Testing Strategies to Reduce Recidivism:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17281
Total Available $4 million Deadline 5/4/2020
Research and Evaluation on Promising Reentry Initiatives :
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17295
Total Available $6 million Deadline 5/5/2020
Review and Validation of the First Step Act Risk Assessment Tool:
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-fsa
Total Available: Determined after selection Deadline 4/10/2020
Second Chance Act Community-Based Reentry Program:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17110
Total Available $13.5 million Deadline 5/4/2020
Second Chance Act Evaluation Participation Support:
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17680
Total Available $4 million Deadline 4/28/2020
Second Chance Act Youth Offender Reentry Program:
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/media/document/ojjdp-2020-17350.pdf
Total Available $7 million Deadline 4/28/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
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U.S. Attorney Invites Local Nominations for Attorney General's Distinguished Service in Policing AwardRead the Press Release
PORTLAND—U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams announced today that the Department of Justice is requesting local nominations for the fourth annual Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Policing. The nomination period is open now and will close on Friday, April 24, 2020 at 5pm PDT.
The Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Policing recognizes state, local, or tribal sworn, rank-and-file police officers, deputies, and troopers for exceptional efforts and innovations in community policing, criminal investigations, and field operations.
“Law enforcement is the toughest job in America. The challenges our officers face on a daily basis are more complex, more difficult, and more extensive than ever before,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “We are grateful for every man and woman in blue for their dedication and sacrifice. Among those who have answered the call of public service, several individuals in the past year performed in ways that surpassed even the highest expectations of the profession. I look forward to recognizing these individuals with the fourth annual Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Policing.”
“Serving alongside state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers, deputies, and troopers in Oregon has been the highest honor of my career,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “It is entirely fitting that we should recognize the sacrifices they make on a daily basis to keep our communities safe and protect the rights we hold dear as Americans. I look forward to joining Attorney General Barr in recognizing the recipients of this distinguished award.”
Nominations may be submitted by the potential recipient’s supervisors, coworkers, or members of their local community. Nominations may include references and URL links to news sources and promotional or other materials that describe or substantiate the activity, program, or initiative for which the nominee is being nominated. Please note: nominees must have been in a non-supervisory position at the time the nominated event, activity, and/or program occurred to be an eligible candidate for this award.
Nominations must be submitted through an online form. The online application will direct the nominating individuals to complete the following fields:
- Name and rank of nominee(s) (must be rank-and-file officers, deputies, or troopers in a nonsupervisory position), the lead agency name, and the size of population served by the agency
- Name and affiliation of the nominating individual
- Nomination category for the action(s), program(s), or initiative(s) for which the nominee(s) is being nominated (Criminal Investigations, Field Operations, or Innovations in Policing)
- A detailed description of the specific action(s), program(s), or initiative(s) of the nominee(s) for which s/he is being nominated
- Agency point of contact information
Nominations must be submitted by 5pm PDT on Friday, April 24, 2020. In the event that agencies or other nominating parties are unable to access the online nomination form, nomination letters may be sent via email. The nomination letter should be no longer than three pages and should include all of the fields listed above. Nominations submitted in letter format must be sent via email to [email protected] by 5pm PDT on Friday, April 24, 2020.
Detailed information regarding the nomination process for this award is available at www.justice.gov/ag/policing-award.
Please direct all general inquiries to [email protected].
Three Alabama U.S. Attorneys and the Alabama Attorney General Partner to Protect AlabamiansRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama - United States Attorney Louis V. Franklin, Sr. for the Middle District of Alabama, United States Attorney Jay E. Town for the Northern District of Alabama, United States Attorney Richard W. Moore for the Southern District of Alabama, and Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, announce they are joining forces to uncover, investigate, prosecute, and dismantle any fraud, price gouging, or scarce material hoarding related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
“Unfortunately, criminals have never seen a crisis that they couldn’t find a way to exploit,” stated U.S. Attorney Louis V. Franklin. “They will use any tragedy or crisis to take advantage of those who are most vulnerable and in need of assistance. I would remind everyone to remain vigilant and always verify offers or claims before making any decision with regard to the COVID-19 pandemic. I stand with my colleagues and will use every tool available to ensure the safety of our citizens.”
“While the crisis has brought out the very best in most Americans, there are those unfortunate exceptions among us that the rule of law will deal with,” U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town said. “There is no daylight between Alabama’s three United States Attorneys and the Alabama’s Attorney General. We will not allow a public health crisis become a public safety crisis, which is why we will continue to share crime intelligence about not only COVID-19 related frauds, but all criminal activities in the Great State.”
“It is critical that our citizens be aware that various frauds are being attempted during this coronavirus pandemic,” U.S. Attorney Richard W. Moore said. “I encourage everyone to read the list of potential scams below and be prepared to exercise common sense caution if you are contacted by anyone pitching anything resembling one of these scenarios. We will vigorously prosecute fraud victimizing the citizens of Alabama, but we prefer that our citizens first exercise prudence and help us avoid becoming unnecessary victims. The U.S. Attorneys and our Alabama Attorney General are dedicated to a coordinated prosecution of those who take advantage of our citizens during this difficult time.”
“I am proud to join with my federal partners as a force multiplier in identifying and holding accountable those criminals who prey upon Alabamians during times of crisis,” said Attorney General Steve Marshall. “Whether through scams targeting a victim’s confidential information or price gouging the public, those who seek to exploit the vulnerable during this time of emergency are on our radar.”
Some examples of Coronavirus and COVID-19 scams include:- Treatment scams: Scammers are offering to sell fake cures, vaccines, and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19.
- Hoarding and Price Gouging scams: The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has designated certain health and medical resources necessary to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic as “scarce,” including respirator masks, ventilators, and other medical protective equipment. These designated materials are subject to the hoarding prevention measures that trigger both criminal and civil remedies.
- Supply scams: Scammers are creating fake shops, websites, social media accounts, and email addresses claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand, such as surgical masks. When consumers attempt to purchase supplies through these channels, fraudsters pocket the money and never provide the promised supplies.
- Provider scams: Scammers are also contacting people by phone and email, pretending to be doctors and hospitals that have treated a friend or relative for COVID-19, and demanding payment for that treatment.
- Charity scams: Scammers are soliciting donations for individuals, groups, and areas affected by COVID-19. Be sure to verify the legitimacy of any organization before donating.
- Phishing scams: Scammers posing as national and global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are sending phishing emails designed to trick recipients into downloading malware or providing personal identifying and financial information.
- App scams: Scammers are also creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.
- Investment scams: Scammers are offering online promotions on various platforms, including social media, claiming that the products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19, and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These promotions are often styled as "research reports," make predictions of a specific "target price," and relate to microcap stocks, or low-priced stocks issued by the smallest of companies with limited publicly available information.
- Stimulus Check Scams: Scammers are contacting people via email or phone and are telling them that their check, as part of the stimulus package responding to COVID-19, is already waiting for them and that all they need to do is to provide personal information, such as bank account numbers and social security numbers, which are the key pieces of information needed to perpetrate identity theft.
If you believe you have been a target or victim of a scam or fraud, or have knowledge of any hoarding or price-gouging of critical medical supplies, you can report it without leaving your home to:- National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721
- Consumer Interest Division of the Alabama Attorney General’s Office using the online form available at https://www.alabamaag.gov/consumercomplaint, or by calling 1-800-392-5658
Three Alabama U.S. Attorneys and the Alabama Attorney General Partner to Protect AlabamiansRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – United States Attorney Jay E. Town for the Northern District of Alabama, United States Attorney Louis V. Franklin for the Middle District of Alabama, United States Attorney Richard W. Moore for the Southern District of Alabama, and Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall join forces to uncover, investigate, prosecute, and dismantle any frauds, price gouging, or scarce material hoarding related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
“While the crisis has brought out the very best in most Americans, there are those unfortunate exceptions among us that the rule of law will deal with,” U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town said. “There is no daylight between Alabama’s three United States Attorneys and the Alabama’s Attorney General. We will not allow a public health crisis to become a public safety crisis, which is why we will continue to share crime intelligence about not only COVID-19 related frauds, but all criminal activities in the Great State.”
“Unfortunately, criminals have never seen a crisis that they couldn’t find a way to exploit,” U.S. Attorney Louis V. Franklin said. “They will use any tragedy or crisis to take advantage of those who are most vulnerable and in need of assistance. I would remind everyone to remain vigilant and always verify offers or claims before making any decision with regard to the Covid-19 pandemic. I stand with my colleagues and will use every tool available to ensure the safety of our citizens.”“It is critical that our citizens be aware that various frauds are being attempted during this coronavirus pandemic,” U.S. Attorney Richard W. Moore said. “I encourage everyone to read the list of potential scams below and be prepared to exercise common sense caution if you are contacted by anyone pitching anything resembling one of these scenarios. We will vigorously prosecute fraud victimizing the citizens of Alabama, but we prefer that our citizens first exercise prudence and help us avoid becoming unnecessary victims. The U.S. Attorneys and our Alabama Attorney General are dedicated to a coordinated prosecution of those who take advantage of our citizens during this difficult time.”
“I am proud to join with my federal partners as a force multiplier in identifying and holding accountable those criminals who prey upon Alabamians during times of crisis,” said Attorney General Steve Marshall. “Whether through scams targeting a victim’s confidential information or price gouging the public, those who seek to exploit the vulnerable during this time of emergency are on our radar.”
Some examples of coronavirus and COVID-19 scams include:
• Treatment scams: Scammers are offering to sell fake cures, vaccines, and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19.
• Hoarding and Price Gouging scams: The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has designated certain health and medical resources necessary to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic as “scarce,” including respirator masks, ventilators, and other medical protective equipment. These designated materials are subject to the hoarding prevention measures that trigger both criminal and civil remedies.
• Supply scams: Scammers are creating fake shops, websites, social media accounts, and email addresses claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand, such as surgical masks. When consumers attempt to purchase supplies through these channels, fraudsters pocket the money and never provide the promised supplies.
• Provider scams: Scammers are also contacting people by phone and email, pretending to be doctors and hospitals that have treated a friend or relative for COVID-19, and demanding payment for that treatment.
• Charity scams: Scammers are soliciting donations for individuals, groups, and areas affected by COVID-19.
• Phishing scams: Scammers posing as national and global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are sending phishing emails designed to trick recipients into downloading malware or providing personal identifying and financial information.
• App scams: Scammers are also creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.
• Investment scams: Scammers are offering online promotions on various platforms, including social media, claiming that the products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19, and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These promotions are often styled as "research reports," make predictions of a specific "target price," and relate to microcap stocks, or low-priced stocks issued by the smallest of companies with limited publicly available information.
• Check Scams: Scammers are contacting people over email and are telling them that their check, as part of the stimulus package responding to COVID-19, is already waiting for them and that all they need to do is to provide personal information, such as bank account numbers and Social Security Numbers, which are the key pieces of information needed to perpetrate identity theft.
If you believe you have been a target or victim of a scam or fraud or have knowledge of any hoarding or price-gouging of critical medical supplies, you can report it without leaving your home to:
• National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or via email at [email protected]
• Consumer Interest Division of the Alabama Attorney General’s Office using the online form available at https://www.alabamaag.gov/consumercomplaint, or by calling 1-800-392-5658Three Alabama U.S. Attorneys and the Alabama Attorney General Partner to Protect AlabamiansRead the Press Release
Mobile, Ala. – United States Attorney Richard W. Moore for the Southern District of Alabama, United States Attorney Louis V. Franklin for the Middle District of Alabama, United States Attorney Jay E. Town for the Northern District of Alabama, and Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall join forces to uncover, investigate, prosecute, and dismantle any frauds, price gouging, or scarce material hoarding related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
“It is critical that our citizens be aware that various frauds are being attempted during this coronavirus pandemic,” U.S. Attorney Richard W. Moore said. “I encourage everyone to read the list of potential scams below and be prepared to exercise common sense caution if you are contacted by anyone pitching anything resembling one of these scenarios. We will vigorously prosecute fraud victimizing the citizens of Alabama, but we prefer that our citizens first exercise prudence and help us avoid becoming unnecessary victims. The U.S. Attorneys and our Alabama Attorney General are dedicated to a coordinated prosecution of those who take advantage of our citizens during this difficult time.”
“Unfortunately, criminals have never seen a crisis that they couldn’t find a way to exploit,” U.S. Attorney Louis V. Franklin said. “They will use any tragedy or crisis to take advantage of those who are most vulnerable and in need of assistance. I would remind everyone to remain vigilant and always verify offers or claims before making any decision with regard to the Covid-19 pandemic. I stand with my colleagues and will use every tool available to ensure the safety of our citizens.”
“While the crisis has brought out the very best in most Americans, there are those unfortunate exceptions among us that the rule of law will deal with,” U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town said. “There is no daylight between Alabama’s three United States Attorneys and the Alabama’s Attorney General. We will not allow a public health crisis become a public safety crisis, which is why we will continue to share crime intelligence about not only COVID-19 related frauds, but all criminal activities in the Great State.”
“I am proud to join with my federal partners as a force multiplier in identifying and holding accountable those criminals who prey upon Alabamians during times of crisis,” said Attorney General Steve Marshall. “Whether through scams targeting a victim’s confidential information or price gouging the public, those who seek to exploit the vulnerable during this time of emergency are on our radar.”Some examples of coronavirus and COVID-19 scams include:
• Treatment scams: Scammers are offering to sell fake cures, vaccines, and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19.
• Hoarding and Price Gouging scams: The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has designated certain health and medical resources necessary to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic as “scarce,” including respirator masks, ventilators, and other medical protective equipment. These designated materials are subject to the hoarding prevention measures that trigger both criminal and civil remedies.
• Supply scams: Scammers are creating fake shops, websites, social media accounts, and email addresses claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand, such as surgical masks. When consumers attempt to purchase supplies through these channels, fraudsters pocket the money and never provide the promised supplies.
• Provider scams: Scammers are also contacting people by phone and email, pretending to be doctors and hospitals that have treated a friend or relative for COVID-19, and demanding payment for that treatment.
• Charity scams: Scammers are soliciting donations for individuals, groups, and areas affected by COVID-19.• Phishing scams: Scammers posing as national and global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are sending phishing emails designed to trick recipients into downloading malware or providing personal identifying and financial information.
• App scams: Scammers are also creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.
• Investment scams: Scammers are offering online promotions on various platforms, including social media, claiming that the products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19, and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These promotions are often styled as "research reports," make predictions of a specific "target price," and relate to microcap stocks, or low-priced stocks issued by the smallest of companies with limited publicly available information.
$1,000 Check Scams: Scammers are contacting people over email and are telling them that their $1,000 check, as part of the stimulus package responding to COVID-19, is already waiting for them and that all they need to do is to provide personal information, such as bank account numbers and Social Security Numbers, which are the key pieces of information needed to perpetrate identity theft.
If you believe you have been a target or victim of a scam or fraud or have knowledge of any hoarding or price-gouging of critical medical supplies, you can report it without leaving your home to:
• National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or via email at [email protected]
• Consumer Interest Division of the Alabama Attorney General’s Office using the online form available at https://www.alabamaag.gov/consumercomplaint, or by calling 1-800-392-5658The Dalles Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison for Transporting and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—Jonathan David Murphy, 42, of The Dalles, Oregon, was sentenced today to seven years in federal prison and five years’ supervised release for transporting and possessing child pornography.
According to court documents, in 2017, local and federal law enforcement conducted undercover investigations of online peer-to-peer file sharing programs being used to exchange images of child pornography. Three separate investigations led investigators to an internet protocol (IP) address registered to a home Murphy shared with his fiancée in The Dalles.
In June 2018, investigators executed a federal search warrant at the residence and Murphy consented to an interview. Murphy admitted to using uTorrent, a peer-to-peer file sharing network, to download and share child pornography.
On February 27, 2020, Murphy pleaded guilty to one count each of transportation and possession of child pornography. After his release from prison, Murphy will be required to register as a sex offender.
This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by Natalie Wight, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at (503) 224-4181 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, child victims suffer re-victimization each time the image of their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s website at www.missingkids.org.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Salvadoran National Pleads Guilty and is Sentenced for Illegal Reentry after DeportationRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Salvadoran national pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to illegally reentering the United States after being deported.
Following the acceptance of his plea, U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani sentenced Oscar Armand Mejia, 42, of Lynn, to a sentence of “time-served,” approximately 6 weeks’ imprisonment. Following the sentencing hearing, Mejia will be transferred to ICE custody and be placed into removal proceedings.
According to court records, Mejia was arrested in 2008 by the Brockton Police and charged with assault and battery and drunk driving. Mejia was later convicted and ordered to serve a sentence of 90 days. After completing his sentence in Nov. 4, 2008, he was placed into removal proceedings and deported to El Salvador. Sometime after his removal, Mejia illegally reentered the United States, was subsequently arrested by the Stoughton Police, and charged with drunk driving. Mejia appeared in state court, posted bail and was released. ICE was not contacted at that time. Mejia later defaulted in state court by failing to appear and a warrant was issued for his arrest. On Feb. 24, 2020, ICE located and arrested Mejia.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Marcos D. Charles, Acting Field Office Director, Enforcement and Removal Operations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
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Presque Isle Woman Sentenced to over Nine Months for Passing Counterfeit MoneyRead the Press Release
Bangor, Maine: A Presque Isle woman was sentenced today in federal court in Bangor for passing counterfeit money, U.S. Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced.
U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Vicky LeClerc, 29, to a time-served sentence and two years of supervised release. LeClerc has been in federal custody since June 27, 2019. She pleaded guilty on December 4, 2019.
According to court records, in December 2018, LeClerc contacted a person who was selling clothes on Facebook. She stated that she wished to purchase the clothes for $20 and the seller agreed. She later met with the seller and paid for the clothes with a $50 bill. The seller became suspicious that the $50 bill was counterfeit because it did not feel correct. She brought the bill to the Presque Isle Police Department, which confirmed the bill was counterfeit. At the time of the sale, LeClerc was aware that the $50 bill was counterfeit.
The Presque Isle Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service investigated the case.
Oklahoma City Man Pleads Guilty in Hoax Bomb Threat CaseRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Kenyata O’Keefe Thomas, 42, of Oklahoma City, entered a guilty plea today to intentionally conveying false and misleading information by making a hoax bomb threat to the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO), announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.
"Our campuses should be a place of safety for students to learn and grow, and for faculty and staff to serve students without fear of an attack," said U.S. Attorney Downing. "Our office and law enforcement partners, including the FBI, have zero tolerance for actions like this hoax bomb threat that disrupt the safety and sense of well-being on our campuses. Here, the hoax was made on the day that Oklahomans were already reflecting on the horrific act of the Oklahoma City bombing—the deadliest domestic terrorism attack in our Nation’s history."
A criminal information was filed in March 2020 against Thomas that charged him with a single count of making a hoax bomb threat on April 19, 2019. According to the information, Thomas intentionally conveyed false and misleading information to UCO that an unnamed person was planning to detonate a bomb on UCO’s campus. Thomas made the hoax bomb threat on the 24th anniversary of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City.
At sentencing, Thomas faces up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing will take place in approximately ninety days.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation—Oklahoma City Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, with assistance from the University of Central Oklahoma Police Department and the Edmond Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Stoneman prosecuted the case.
Reference is made to court filings for further information. To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.
Nevada U.S. Attorney Announces Nearly $60 Million in Grants Available to Support Prisoners' Successful Reentry into Their CommunitiesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced that nearly $60 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities across the country address public safety by supporting successful reentry of adult and juvenile offenders into their communities.
“Our nation is facing difficult public safety challenges that demand strong and immediate action. The high rate of recidivism poses a dire threat to community safety and is being met with a robust response by this Administration,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this persistent challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”
“These grant opportunities demonstrate the Department of Justice’s commitment to providing a successful pathway for adult and juvenile offenders returning to their communities,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “We know that effective reentry means safer communities and, therefore, I encourage our law enforcement and community partners to apply.”
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including adult and juvenile reentry initiatives and research projects designed to improve our knowledge of what works in reentry programming.
A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future.
- Correctional Adult Reentry Education, Employment, and Recidivism Reduction Strategies Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17104
Total Available: $7.2 million Deadline: 4/27/2020
- Improving Community Supervision Outcomes Through Swift, Certain, and Fair Responses
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17096
Total Available: $3 million Deadline: 4/28/2020
- Improving Reentry for People with Substance Use Disorders Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/SCASUD20
Total Available: $13.2 million Deadline: 4/27/2020
- Innovations in Reentry Initiative: Building System Capacity & Testing Strategies to Reduce Recidivism
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17281
Total Available: $4 million Deadline: 5/4/2020
- Research and Evaluation on Promising Reentry Initiatives
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17295
Total Available: $6 million Deadline: 5/5/2020
- Review and Validation of the First Step Act Risk Assessment Tool https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-fsa
Total Available: Determined after selection Deadline: 4/10/2020
- Second Chance Act Community-Based Reentry Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17110
Total Available: $13.5 million Deadline: 5/4/2020
- Second Chance Act Evaluation Participation Support
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17680
Total Available: $4 million Deadline: 4/28/2020
- Second Chance Act Youth Offender Reentry Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/media/document/ojjdp-2020-17350.pdf
Total Available: $7 million Deadline: 4/28/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
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Nevada U.S. Attorney Announces More Than $83 Million Available to Support School SafetyRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced that more than $83 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities across the country improve school security and protect students, teachers and faculty from threats of violence.
“School violence is no longer an abstract threat but has become a tragic reality in too many of America’s communities. Moving to meet this challenge is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”
“Through these grant opportunities, the Department of Justice is further expanding its efforts to reduce school violence,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “This new funding will help protect children, teachers, and faculty throughout Nevada.”
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to tighten school security and improve the reporting of threats.
A number of funding opportunities for school safety are currently open, with another opening in the near future:
- Research and Evaluation on School Safety
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17308
Total Available: $5 million Deadline: 4/13/2020
- STOP Act School Violence Program (FY20)
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17312
Total Available: $71.5 million Deadline: 6/9/2020
- Strategies to Support Children Exposed to Violence
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17926
Total Available: $7 million Deadline: 4/27/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities.
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Nevada U.S. Attorney Announces More Than $163 Million Available to Fight Addiction CrisisRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced that more than $163 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address America’s addiction crisis.
“Our nation is facing the difficult challenge of curbing substance addiction, which threatens public safety and is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”
“The cycle of addiction not only affects the individual and their loved ones, but also their community and public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “The OJP grant funds will provide assistance and needed resources to treatment providers, drug courts, and other organizations, serving as a lifeline to help stem the tide of substance addiction. These grants demonstrate the Department of Justice’s commitment to stopping the drug abuse and addiction cycle.”
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to prevent overdose deaths and break the cycle of addiction and crime.
A number of funding opportunities that address the addiction crisis are currently open:
- Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17098
Total Available: $1.75 million Deadline: 5/14/2020
- Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/COSSAP20
Total Available: $27 million Deadline: 5/21/2020
- Enhancing Community Responses to America's Addiction Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims
https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-enhancing-community-responses-to-drug-crisis.pdf
Total Available: $19 million Deadline: 5/4/2020
- Family Drug Court Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17090
Total Available: $18.2 million Deadline: 4/8/2020 (Extended)
- Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17754
Total Available: $28.1 Deadline: 5/5/2020
- Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17051
Total Available: $7.2 million Deadline: 4/13/2020 (Extended)
- Mentoring Opportunities for Youth Initiative
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-16930
Total Available: $48 million Deadline: 4/13/2020
- Opioid Affected Youth Initiative
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17352
Total Available: $9 million Deadline: 4/20/2020
- Research and Evaluation on Drugs and Crime
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17275
Total Available: $1 million Deadline: 4/20/2020
- Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners
https://bja.ojp.gov/RSAT20
Total Available: $4.5 million Deadline: 4/6/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
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More than $19 Million in Grant Opportunities Available for Western Pennsylvania, Including $1.4 Million Dedicated to Help Public Safety Agencies Address COVID-19 Pandemic, under DOJ’s Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding ProgramRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH – The Department of Justice has announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
According to U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady, $1,412,067 of the funds will go to these eligible governmental agencies in Western Pennsylvania: the Counties of Allegheny, Blair, Cambria, Erie and Indiana; the Cities of Pittsburgh, Altoona, Erie, Johnstown and McKeesport; as well as Indiana Borough, Wilkinsburg Borough and Penn Hills Township. In addition, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency is eligible for up to $17.6 million in grants that can be distributed to eligible governmental agencies throughout Pennsylvania, including western Pennsylvania.
"The men and women on the front line of this pandemic deserve our deepest appreciation for answering the call to serve regardless of the danger," U.S. Attorney Brady said. "The public safety funds being made available through DOJ’s Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program can be used for the most pressing needs of our state and local partners, including new hiring and overtime pay, training, critical personal protective equipment and supplies, and the medical needs of prisoners."
"This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals," said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. "We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents."
The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received. Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.
For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553.
For more information about the Office of Justice Programs, please visit https://www.ojp.gov/.
For resources and additional information on applying for OJP grant opportunities, please see the WDPA Grants Resource Page at https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdpa/grants.
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.
Missoula drug trafficker sentenced to more than 16 years in prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Missoula man convicted at trial of trafficking methamphetamine and heroin and illegally having firearms was sentenced today to 16 years and three months in prison and 10 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
A jury in December found Allan Roy Goodman, 43, guilty on all counts, including conspiracy to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute meth, distribution of a controlled substance, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, prohibited person in possession of a firearm and obstruction of justice.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.
The prosecution’s evidence showed that Goodman was a prolific meth and heroin dealer. Goodman sold drugs to a confidential source who was working for the Missoula High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, and two witnesses testified about selling Goodman a pistol for heroin.
Law enforcement served a search warrant on Sept. 12, 2019 on Goodman’s garage and recovered two firearms. Goodman had been convicted of felonies on two prior occasions.
The prosecution also presented evidence showing that in early October 2019, Goodman and another person assaulted a cooperating witness while all were incarcerated in Shelby.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force, the Missoula HIDTA Task Force and the Northwest Drug Task Force.
This case is part of Project Guardian, the U.S. Department of Justice’s initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws, and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the USDOJ’s initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 through 2018. Through these initiatives, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.
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Manhattan U.S. Attorney Announces Settlement of Fraudulent Billing and Kickback Lawsuit Against Compounding Pharmacies and OwnersRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, Director of the Defense Health Agency of the U.S. Department of Defense (“DoD”), Scott J. Lampert, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”), Michael Mikulka, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Office of Investigations, Labor Racketeering and Fraud, of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (“DOL-OIG”), and Thomas W. South, Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Investigations of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Office of Inspector General (“OPM-OIG”), announced today that the United States has filed a lawsuit and simultaneously settled civil healthcare fraud claims against FPR SPECIALTY PHARMACY LLC and MEAD SQUARE PHARMACY, INC. (“MEAD SQUARE” and together, the “Pharmacies”), and their owners, CHRISTOPHER K. CASEY and WILLIAM RUE (collectively, “Defendants”), for their submission of fraudulent claims for reimbursement to federal healthcare programs for compounded prescription drugs in violation of the False Claims Act and the Anti-Kickback Statute. Specifically, as alleged in the Government’s complaint, the Pharmacies sold prescription drugs to federal healthcare program beneficiaries in states in which the Pharmacies were not licensed, improperly induced patients to purchase expensive custom compounded medications by waiving all or part of the substantial co-payments required under the federal healthcare programs, and paid sales representatives per-prescription commissions to illegally induce more prescriptions to be written. In connection with the settlement agreements, which were approved today by U.S. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer, Defendants agreed to pay a total of $426,000, and admitted to and accepted responsibility for the conduct alleged in the complaint. The amounts paid by Defendants under the settlements are based on the Office’s assessment of their ability to pay based on the financial information they provided.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Pharmacies, like other participants in the healthcare industry, must follow the rules. The defendants here brazenly flouted basic rules on licensing and kickbacks to line their pockets with dollars from federal healthcare programs. That is a prescription for intervention by my Office and our partners.”
According to the complaint filed in Manhattan federal court:
During the relevant period, from 2011 through 2015, the Pharmacies dispensed a compounded prescription analgesic cream known as Focused Pain Relief from their facility in Victor, New York, to patients around the country. Many of the Pharmacies’ patients were beneficiaries of federal healthcare programs such as TRICARE, Medicare, federal employee workers’ compensation programs overseen by DOL, and the Federal Employee Health Benefit Program. CASEY and RUE co-owned and managed FPR SPECIALTY PHARMACY, while CASEY owned and managed MEAD SQUARE, for which RUE also worked for a time.
The rules governing federal healthcare programs require pharmacies dispensing prescriptions to their members to be licensed with the appropriate state authorities in order to request reimbursement for the cost of the medications. The Pharmacies violated the False Claims Act by dispensing and requesting reimbursement for hundreds of prescriptions of Focused Pain Relief dispensed to federal healthcare program beneficiaries located in states where the Pharmacies were not licensed to operate by the appropriate state authorities, and by failing to disclose that they were not licensed. The Pharmacies also violated the False Claims Act by billing federal healthcare programs for prescriptions dispensed in states in which they had obtained their state licenses under false pretenses, including by failing to inform state authorities that they had previously dispensed drugs in the states without a license and by failing to disclose CASEY’s criminal history on pharmacy license applications.
In addition, the Pharmacies violated the Anti-Kickback Statute by engaging in two separate illegal practices. First, the Pharmacies regularly charged federal healthcare program beneficiaries co-payments substantially below program requirements (which often exceeded $100) in order to induce them to purchase expensive prescriptions of Focused Pain Relief, for which the federal healthcare programs paid hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars each. And second, the Pharmacies often paid illegal kickbacks to their sales representatives in the form of sales commissions tied to the number of Focused Pain Relief prescriptions written by the physicians to whom each representative marketed.
As part of the settlement agreements, Defendants agreed and accepted responsibility for the following:
- The Pharmacies sold prescriptions to customers covered by federal healthcare programs who were located in several states in which they were not licensed or no longer licensed by the relevant state pharmacy boards to operate as out-of-state mail-order pharmacies or otherwise sell prescription drugs to residents of those states.
- The Pharmacies did not disclose, in connection with their applications to state pharmacy boards, which were usually signed by CASEY, when they had previously sold mail-order prescription drugs to residents of those states where the Pharmacies either were not licensed or had license applications pending but were not yet licensed.
- The Pharmacies often did not charge customers who were covered by federal healthcare programs the required co-pays or coinsurance payments mandated by those programs for prescription drugs, in connection with their sales of Focused Pain Relief to those customers.
- The Pharmacies entered into agreements with independent sales agents and distributors to solicit physicians to prescribe Focused Pain Relief. These agreements, which were often signed by RUE, generally provided that the Pharmacies would pay the sales agents and distributors specific sums as sales commissions for each prescription of Focused Pain Relief prescribed by a physician assigned to the particular agent or distributor. The Pharmacies actually paid their sales agents and distributors sales commissions on a per-prescription basis, in accordance with these agreements.
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As part of today’s settlement, MEAD SQUARE also entered into a corporate integrity agreement with HHS-OIG, through which it agreed to implement compliance measures and submit to monitoring. FPR SPECIALTY PHARMACY dissolved in 2016.
In connection with the filing of the lawsuit and settlement, the Government intervened in a private whistleblower lawsuit that had been filed under seal pursuant to the False Claims Act.
Mr. Berman thanked DoD, HHS-OIG, DOL-OIG, and OPM-OIG for their assistance with the case.
The case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Frauds Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Jean-David Barnea is in charge of the case.
- The Pharmacies sold prescriptions to customers covered by federal healthcare programs who were located in several states in which they were not licensed or no longer licensed by the relevant state pharmacy boards to operate as out-of-state mail-order pharmacies or otherwise sell prescription drugs to residents of those states.