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10 June 2020
Asheville Federal Prosecutor Selected as Buncombe County Bar Distinguished Young LawyerRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Caroline McLean, of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina, was selected as Buncombe County Bar Distinguished Young Lawyer for her contributions to the legal profession and the community as a member of the Bar. The announcement was made at the Buncombe Bar Annual Meeting on June 10, 2020.
AUSA McLean serves in the Civil Division of the Asheville U.S. Attorney’s Office. She is responsible for affirmative civil litigation on behalf of the United States, and defending the United States and federal agencies in a wide range of cases in federal and state court.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Murray said, “AUSA McLean has exemplified the highest level of achievement as an attorney representing the United States, federal agencies, and federal employees. She has handled difficult and challenging cases, and has demonstrated exemplary legal skill and professionalism while obtaining impressive results in a wide range of cases, including medical malpractice, employment discrimination, tax, and affirmative civil enforcement cases.”
AUSA McLean joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2018. Beyond her career in public service, AUSA McLean has contributed to the community through active participation in the Harry C. Martin Inns of Court in Asheville, an organization that promotes professionalism through mentoring and fostering collegiality within the legal profession. She also serves as a member of the Executive Board for the YMCA of Western North Carolina, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
Prior to joining the United States Attorney’s Office, AUSA McLean was a litigation attorney with Ward and Smith, P.A., where she handled complex commercial and business litigation in state and federal courts. Prior to that, she served as a law clerk for the Honorable Louise W. Flanagan of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina (USDC-EDNC). She also served as an extern for the Honorable W. Earl Britt of the USDC-EDNC, and also as an extern for the Honorable Graham C. Mullen of the United States District Court for the Western District of North Carolina.
A native of Charlotte, AUSA McLean graduated from Myers Park High School. She was selected to attend the University of Virginia (UVA) as a Jefferson Scholar. Following her graduation with distinction from UVA, AUSA McLean graduated from the University of North Carolina School of Law with High Honors, where she served as an Articles Editor on the Law Review, and was inducted into the Order of the Coif, an honorable society limited to those that graduate in the top ten percent of their class.
9 June 2020
Yuba County Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — John Maasen, 65, of Olivehurst, pleaded guilty today to possession of child pornography, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, on Jan. 16, 2019, Maasen knowingly possessed visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Maasen has a prior conviction by the State of California for lewd and lascivious acts on a child under the age of fourteen.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shea J. Kenny and Amy S. Hitchcock are prosecuting the case.
Maasen is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez on Sept. 15. Maasen faces a minimum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, as well as a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet safety education.
Worcester Man Pleads Guilty to Wildlife SmugglingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Worcester man pleaded guilty yesterday in connection with unlawfully importing and exporting salamander and turtle species.
Nathan Boss, 27, pleaded guilty to two counts of smuggling wildlife into the United States, two counts of smuggling wildlife out of the United States, and making a false statement to a federal agent. U.S. District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman scheduled sentencing for Sept. 24, 2020. Boss was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in October 2019 and indicted in November 2019.
The investigation began in 2017 when Boss lied to federal investigators about the identity of a recipient of wildlife illegally imported into the United States. Subsequently, federal investigators intercepted an inbound U.S. Postal Service package from Hong Kong that was addressed to “Shelton Boss” at an address on Mildred Avenue in Worcester. The package was found to contain four black-breasted leaf turtles (Geoemyda spengleri), a species included in the Convention for Trade in Endangered Species and Wild Fauna, an international agreement joined by the U.S. that governs the importation of designated wildlife. Specifically, any black-breasted leaf turtle imported into the United States must be declared and approved by Fish and Wildlife Service before any shipment can be received.
Boss was also found to have illegally imported an injurious species of salamander which can carry a fungal disease and is prohibited from importation into the United States. Further investigation revealed that, on multiple occasions, Boss illegally exported undeclared wildlife destined for locations in Hong Kong and Sweden.
The charges provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Ryan Noel, Special Agent in Charge, of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement made the announcement. Assistance with the investigation was provided by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Massachusetts Environmental Police and the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nadine Pellegrini of Lelling’s Criminal Division is prosecuting the case.
Woman from Oglala, SD Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Oglala, South Dakota, woman convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury was sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
Essence Belt, age 37, was sentenced on June 1, 2020, to 5 years of probation, ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and $4,000 in restitution.
Belt was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2019. Belt consumed an excessive amount of alcohol and attempted to drive to Oelrichs to acquire additional beer. Due to alcohol consumption, Belt lost control of the vehicle she was driving and crashed shortly after 9:00 a.m. on December 12, 2018. Crash data revealed that Belt was driving 85 miles per hour in a residential area, with a posted speed limit of 25 miles per hour, 5 seconds prior to the crash. The passenger in the front seat was ejected approximately 100 feet from the vehicle and is now a quadriplegic. The back seat passenger was partially ejected and sustained a hip injury. Belt also sustained serious injuries requiring hospitalization.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Wagner Man Sentenced for Threatening CommunicationsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man convicted of Threatening Communications was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Kyle Gullikson, age 29, was sentenced to time served, 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Gullikson was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 3, 2019. He pled guilty on March 24, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on or about November 5, 2019, when Gullikson knowingly and willfully transmitted threatening messages on Facebook.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Veblen Woman Sentenced in Federal Court for Mail Fraud Involving Head Start ProgramRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Veblen, South Dakota, woman was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Renee K. Olson, age 57, was sentenced to 8 months of home confinement, coupled with 5 years of probation as a result of her conviction for Mail Fraud. She was also ordered to pay $24,031.74 in restitution and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, Olson served as the Treasurer of the Region VIII Head Start Association. In September 2014 and continuing to June 2018, Olson devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud the Region VIII Head Start Association of money and property, and obtained money and property from the Region VIII Head Start Association by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, omissions, and promises. In her working capacity, Olson sent out invoices to members of the Title VIII Region. Members then paid those invoices and sent those payments to Olson. Upon receipt, Olson converted those payments and used that money for personal expenses. The money was supposed to be used to train members of Region VIII Head Start, but instead Olson deposited those checks into her personal bank account. For the purpose of carrying out and executing the scheme to defraud, and in furtherance of the scheme and artifice to defraud, Olson knowingly caused items to be placed in an authorized depository for mail matter.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri.
Union Leader Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Union FundsRead 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 Brian Arnold, 49, of Pine City, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to embezzlement of union funds. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that the defendant served as Financial Secretary with Steelworkers Local Union 104M, which represents approximately 75 workers at Anchor Glass Container Corporation, from September 2015 to August 2018. As financial secretary, Arnold was responsible for collecting dues checks, recording all receipts, maintaining receipts and disbursement records, writing and signing checks, and preparing an accurate account of all money received and paid out to report monthly to the union membership.
Between April 2016 and August 2018, Arnold embezzled $33,224.15 in union funds. The defendant made unauthorized purchases with the union’s debit card; made unauthorized ATM withdrawals from the union’s checking account; and wrote unauthorized checks to himself from the union’s checking account.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the US Department of Labor, Office of Labor Management Standards (OLMS) Buffalo Office, under the direction of the Boston-Buffalo District Office, District Director Jonathan Russo.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 10, 2020, before Judge Geraci.
U.S. Attorney's Office Recognizes 20 Law Enforcement Officers for Their Outstanding AchievementsRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray announced that 20 law enforcement officers have been selected to receive the U.S. Attorney’s Office Excellence in the Pursuit of Justice award, for their significant contributions to the
mission of the Department of Justice, and their commitment to protecting the people of the Western District of North Carolina.
“Today, we honor 20 brave men and women for their tireless efforts to keep our communities safe, uphold our Nation’s laws, and ensure public safety,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “I thank each of them for their dedication to the pursuit of justice, and for serving the people of Western North Carolina with fairness, integrity and excellence.”
Six recipients were selected to receive the Outstanding Individual Performance award for their exemplary contributions to cases prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. They are:
Clint Bridges, Gastonia Police Department Detective and Task Force Officer with DEA’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Task Force. Detective Bridges serves as the primary case agent in multiple DEA-HIDTA investigations in the Western District of North Carolina, targeting and dismantling high-level narcotics trafficking organizations. In 2019, Detective Bridges was the primary case agent for “Operation Iceberg,” which led to the seizure of more than 40 pounds of crystal methamphetamine, two kilograms of heroin, two kilograms of cocaine, 50 firearms, and $50,000 in cash, and the prosecution of 30 defendants.
Debra L. Harris, Senior Insolvency Specialist with the Internal Revenue Service, is being recognized for her exemplary work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to protect the interests of the United States in the administration of the federal tax laws in the Western District.
Anthony J. Johnson, Detective with the Asheville Police Department, has been selected for his superior investigative work in the case of United States v. Knoke. Detective Johnson’s exceptional work helped secure a 15-year sentence for a serial child abuser, and led to the identification of over a dozen victims Knoke had abused over a 50-year span.
Dennis J. Miller, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Detective and Forfeiture Coordinator, was selected for his contribution to the success of dozens of criminal and civil forfeiture prosecutions each year in the Western District. In 2019, Detective Miller was integral to this office’s success in transferring a federally forfeited drug property to Habitat for Humanity. Detective Miller also volunteered, and solicited volunteers, to physically convert the dilapidated property into a newly constructed Habitat for Humanity home, which was presented to a deserving homeowner and her young daughter.
Jason Brent Reid, Detective with the Boone Police Department and Task Force Officer with Homeland Security Investigations, has been selected for his superior investigative work in U.S. vs Frank Cromwell, a case involving an alleged child predator who is facing federal charges for producing child pornography and victimizing multiple young men. The charges against Cromwell for his alleged conduct are still pending.
Tim Stutheit, Special Agent with the FBI’s Complex Financial Crime Squad, is the recipient of the award for his superior investigative work in cases involving financial fraud. In 2019, Special Agent Stutheit was the lead agent in at least four significant cases, and his thorough work was instrumental in assisting the U.S. Attorney’s Office to successfully prosecute multiple white collar criminals, including defendants who stole money from multiple victims, some of whom were elderly.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office also selected two investigative teams to be recognized in the Outstanding Case category, for their exceptional teamwork and collaboration over the course of an investigation. Seven law enforcement officers will be recognized for their collective investigative work in the above-referenced case, U.S. vs Frank Cromwell. The recipients are:
- Boone Police Department Detective and Homeland Security Investigations Task Force Officer Jason Brent Reid.
- Homeland Security Investigations Special Agents Patrick G. Wilhelm and W. Lee Swafford.
- North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nathan Samuel Anderson.
- Watauga County Sherriff’s Office Captain Carolynn Johnson, Detective Terry A. Julian, and Detective Matt F. Rollins.
The following seven law enforcement officers were selected to receive the Outstanding Case award for their collective work in an extensive multi-agency, multi-state, and multi-defendant drug trafficking operation codenamed “Unicoi Pipeline.” This joint investigation conducted by law enforcement agencies in North Carolina and Georgia dismantled a drug conspiracy responsible for trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine between the two states, and led to the seizure of multiple pounds of methamphetamine, 65 firearms, and more than $30,000 in drug proceeds. The award recipients are:
- Clay County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Todd C. Wingate.
- Clay County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Thomas H. Woodard.
- DEA Task Force Officer and Swain County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Brian A. Leopard.
- Georgia Bureau of Investigation Assistant Special Agent in Charge Ken Howard.
- North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Brett Anders.
- Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia Lieutenant Tyler Hooks.
- Union County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia, Deputy Jay McCarter.
This year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will not host a formal award ceremony. U.S. Attorney Murray will present recipients individually with an engraved award, commemorating their outstanding efforts and contributions to the fair and proper administration of justice.
U.S. Attorney McSwain Announces Charges Against Two Convicted Felons for Illegal Possession of Firearms Amidst Ongoing Protests in PhiladelphiaRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Steven Pennycooke, 34, and Shawn Collins, 27, both of Philadelphia, PA, were each charged by criminal complaint with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The criminal complaints and arrest warrants against both men were unsealed this morning prior to their initial appearances in federal court.
Following peaceful protests on the afternoon of May 30th in response to the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, MN, civil unrest began to unfold in Philadelphia, resulting in widespread rioting, looting, burglary, arson, destruction of property, and other violent acts.
On the night of June 2nd, while a mandatory curfew was in effect, the Philadelphia Police Department received a call regarding two individuals loading an ATM onto a cart on the 4100 block of Viola Street in the Parkside section of West Philadelphia. Officers responded to the scene and observed what appeared to be a safe in the middle of the street. The officers also observed two individuals fitting the description from the original call—Pennycooke and Collins—standing near a vehicle about halfway down the block from the safe.
According to the complaint, Pennycooke removed an object, later confirmed to be a loaded 9mm Hi-Point C9 handgun, from his waistband and discarded it in the rear passenger seat of the vehicle parked nearby. Collins was also found to have a firearm in his waistband, later confirmed to be a loaded 9mm Taurus PT24/7 G2 C handgun. Both Pennycooke and Collins are convicted felons and cannot legally possess firearms. Also according to the complaint, Collins acknowledged to the arresting officer that he did not have a permit to carry a firearm.
“As I made clear last week, my Office is committed to prosecuting anybody who took advantage of the George Floyd protests to try to commit violent acts or otherwise violate federal law. There will be accountability,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “In this case, two previously convicted felons are charged with allegedly possessing firearms, which presents a clear danger to the community. We will continue to enforce the rule of law in Philadelphia and throughout the Eastern District of Pennsylvania during this period of unrest – and always.”
“Amid the recent civil unrest in the city sparked by lawless instigators, these two alleged armed felons were found among the looters,” said Michael J. Driscoll, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “Such criminal acts detract attention from the message of those who choose to peacefully protest. Today's charges demonstrate that the FBI will work swiftly with our law enforcement partners to take individuals who pose a threat to our community off the streets.”
If convicted, the defendants each face a maximum possible sentence of ten years’ imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Philadelphia Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Derek E. Hines.
An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney J. Doug Overbey Announces $79,292 Award to Address Covid-19 Pandemic in TennesseeRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey of the Eastern District of Tennessee today announced that the Blount County Sheriff’s Office received $79,292 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. Other jurisdictions can determine if they are eligible for funds and may apply immediately by visiting this website. The Justice Department is moving quickly, awarding grants on a rolling basis and aiming to have funds available for drawdown as soon as possible after receiving applications.
“This is no time for anyone to let up in the fight against COVID-19, and law enforcement cannot let down its guard against the dangers it presents. I’m very pleased to announce this grant award to the BCSO for its use in properly equipping and protecting its deputies as they continue to protect the citizens of Blount County,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude using these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment, distributing resources to hard-hit areas and addressing inmates’ medical needs.
Agencies eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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U.S. Attorney Brady Announces $58K Grant to Address COVID-19 Pandemic in Indiana CountyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady today announced that the County of Indiana, Pennsylvania, received $58,008 in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant was available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump. In addition, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency has been awarded $17.6 million in grants that can be distributed to eligible governmental agencies throughout Pennsylvania, including western Pennsylvania.
From the moment these grants became available, U.S. Attorney Brady has dedicated staff to ensure that all eligible agencies in western Pennsylvania had the opportunity to apply and receive funds promptly. Since then, the Office has worked with eligible applicants to assist them in the grant process.
"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 to Indiana County 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."
"We are truly appreciative of receiving the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding grant from the Department of Justice, which will be used in purchasing PPE and equipment for use in battling COVID-19," said R. Michael Keith, Chairman of the Indiana County Commissioners. "Funding from the grant will enable the County to replenish these unbudgeted expenses so the County can continue to operate effectively and serve the needs of the community. This grant has made it possible to work within our means of our current budget. The Indiana County Commissioners would like to thank the Department of Justice for awarding this CESF grant."
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
Two-Time Bank Robber Sentenced to 41 MonthsRead the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorney Matthew Brehm (619) 546-8983
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – June 8, 2020
SAN DIEGO – Timothy Huss of El Cajon was sentenced in federal court today to 41 months in prison and ordered to pay restitution for robbing two San Diego banks in 2019.
Huss pleaded guilty on November 19, 2019, admitting that he robbed the banks by presenting demand notes that threatened the tellers. He was apprehended by police officers after he fled the second robbery.
“Bank robberies are terrifying and dangerous experiences for tellers and customers,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer. “Thanks to the hard work of prosecutor Matt Brehm and our law enforcement partners, we achieved justice in this case.”
In his plea agreement, Huss admitted that, on September 14, 2019, at approximately 9:46 a.m., he entered the Chase Bank branch at 3490 College Avenue in San Diego, approached the teller window and presented the teller with a demand note, which requested money and threatened the teller. The teller complied with Huss’ demands and provided him with approximately $4,410. He made his getaway on foot.
Huss also admitted that, on September 20, 2019, at approximately 3:13 p.m., he entered the Well Fargo branch at 1350 Fashion Valley Road in San Diego and approached the teller window. Huss provided the teller with a demand note which read, “Keep Actin (sic) Normal. Put the cash in a bag no die (sic) or GPS or Im coming back.” The teller passed $520 in U.S. currency and $40 in bait bills to Huss, including a GPS tracker pack with a specific serial number. Huss took the bills and bait bills, placed them in a laptop bag, took the demand note and fled the bank on foot.
“The successful conclusion of this case was due to coordinated and ongoing teamwork between the SDPD Robbery Unit, the FBI, and the Violent Crime and Human Trafficking Section,” said San Diego Police Lt. Julie Epperson. “Collaboration with our law enforcement partners creates a stronger defense against criminals who prey on the public.”
FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Omer Meisel commented, “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to keep the San Diego community safe from those whose criminal behavior threatens the well-being and security of our citizens.”
This case is the result of the ongoing efforts of the Violent Crime and Human Trafficking (VCHT) Section. Formed in 2019 by U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer, the VCHT is tasked with leading collaborations between federal and local law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of cases involving violent crimes, firearms and gang cases; sex trafficking and child exploitation; civil rights, and labor trafficking. The VCHT Section oversees the Southern District of California Coordinators for Project Safe Neighborhoods, Human Trafficking, and Project Safe Childhood.
DEFENDANT Case Number 19cr4038-W
Timothy Huss Age: 30 El Cajon, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Bank Robbery – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 2113(a)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation
San Diego Police Department
Two South Dakota Men Sentenced in Carjacking IncidentRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two South Dakota men were recently sentenced by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Judge.
On May 11, 2020, Craig Hirschfeld, age 26, of Box Elder, was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund for Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence.
On June 5, 2020, Devin Byker, age 25, of Piedmont, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for Carjacking and an additional term of 7 years for Use and Brandishing of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime of Violence, both terms to run consecutively, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from Hirschfeld and Byker stealing a man’s vehicle, wallet, and cell phone at gunpoint after the man had given them a ride in June 2019 in Rapid City.
“Anyone who uses a gun to commit a crime in South Dakota is likely be charged federally and can look forward to spending a significant amount of time in federal prison somewhere outside of the state,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Hirschfeld and Byker were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Two Individuals Charged with Arson of St. Paul Health and Nutrition StoreRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced two federal criminal complaints against SAMUEL ELLIOTT FREY, 19, and BAILEY MARIE BALDUS, 19, charging them with conspiracy to commit arson. FREY and BALDUS made their initial appearance earlier today before Magistrate Judge Hildy Bowbeer in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.
According to the allegations in the complaints, on May 28, 2020, a health and nutrition store located in St. Paul, Minnesota, sustained damage due to vandalism and fire. On June 3, 2020, investigators with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) examined the store and determined that the fire and smoke damage was caused by arson. ATF investigators obtained video surveillance footage from inside the store on the night of the arson. Following ATF’s public request for tips and identifying information, investigators were able to identify FREY and BALDUS in the surveillance video footage. FREY can be seen pouring flammable hand sanitizer onto a shelving unit and lighting it on fire.
The ATF and FBI urge the public to report suspected arson, use of explosive devices, or violent, destructive acts associated with the recent unrest. Anyone with information specifically related to business fires in the Twin Cities can call 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477), email [email protected] or submit information anonymously via ReportIt.com. In addition to fires, the FBI is looking for people who may have incited or promoted violence of any kind. Anyone with digital material or tips can call 1-800-CALLFBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted jointly by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the FBI, the St. Paul Police Department, the St. Paul Fire Department, and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal Division.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew S. Ebert and Joseph S. Teirab.
The charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defendant Information:
SAMUEL ELLIOTT FREY, 19
Brooklyn Park, Minn.
Charges:
- Conspiracy to commit arson, 1 count
BAILEY MARIE BALDUS, 19
Ramsey, Minn.
Charges:
- Conspiracy to commit arson, 1 count
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Two Defendants Charged with Committing Serial Armed Robberies Throughout FloridaRead the Press Release
Miami, Florida – Two Louisiana residents, Jeremy Steven Coleman, 43, and Jennifer Lynn Freeman, 35, appeared in federal court on charges that they participated in a string of armed robberies throughout Florida.
Ariana Fajardo Orshan, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, George L. Piro, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Miami Field Office, and Alfredo Ramirez III, Director, Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD) made the announcement.
According to the criminal complaint, between June 3 through June 5, 2020, Coleman and Freeman committed five of the armed robberies at gas stations and convenience stores in South Florida.
On June 3, law enforcement responded to an armed robbery at a Shell Gas Station located at 18600 South Dixie Highway, Miami, Florida. A white male in his 30s-40s, allegedly entered the gas station and pointed what appeared to be a black pistol at the victims. The robber allegedly left with about $600.
On June 4, law enforcement responded to an armed robbery at a 7-Eleven store located at 9500 NW 7th Ave, Miami, Florida. In that robbery, a white male, matching the description of the man from the robbery of the day before, allegedly entered the 7-Eleven and walked behind the counter where the two victims were standing. The robber allegedly pointed an unknown type of rifle at the victims and left the store with $200.
On June 5, law enforcement responded to three more armed robberies. In all three, the robber matched the description of the person who had committed the robberies on June 3 and 4. One robbery occurred at a 7-Eleven store, located at 533 NW 103rd Street, Miami, Florida. The robber allegedly brandished what appeared to be a black pistol at the victims in the store and stole about $200. The second robbery that day occurred at a Chevron gas station at 17800 Collins Avenue in Sunny Isles, Florida. The robber allegedly pushed a black gun into the victim’s side, demanded that the victim open the cash register, and left the gas station with out $600. The third robbery on June 5 occurred at a Shell Gas Station, located at 13701 SW 26th St., Miami, Florida. The robber allegedly entered the gas station and approached the victim armed with what appeared to be a black pistol and pointed the firearm at the victim’s head. The robber stole about $400.
Investigation led law enforcement to a room in a South Florida hotel that appeared to be occupied by Coleman and Freeman. Officers executed a federal search warrant inside the hotel room. They found clothes that matched clothes worn by the robbers, as seen in surveillance video. Law enforcement also found what appeared to be bb-gun replicas of semi-automatic firearms, including a black replica Beretta firearm, a black replica Glock firearm, a black replica Sig Sauer firearm, and two replica .357 caliber revolvers.
The defendants had their initial appearances in federal court. Coleman was detained without bond pending trial. Freeman’s detention hearing is scheduled for Friday, June 12, before a federal magistrate judge.
U.S. Attorney Fajardo Orshan commended the investigative efforts of the FBI, including FBI’s South Florida Violent Crime Task Force, and the Miami-Dade Police Department’s Robbery Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cary O. Aronovitz and Maria Catala are prosecuting this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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 to address when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Three Baton Rouge Residents Face Federal Arson Charges in Connection with Area Business FiresRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that a criminal complaint was issued charging Terry Lemond Dorsey, age 21, Kenyatta Sheire Huggins, age 22, and Shamyrin Djhodi Johnson, age 22, all of Baton Rouge, with conspiracy to maliciously damage or destroy by fire buildings used in interstate commerce. The subjects had been previously arrested on state arson charges and were taken into custody on federal charges earlier today. These charges concern a series of arsons at four commercial properties in the Baton Rouge area.
The criminal complaint alleges that, on May 31, 2020, St. George Fire Protection District investigators responded to a fire at Tai Industries, Inc., 6410 Fieldstone Drive. On June 1, 2020, St. George Fire Protection District investigated another suspicious fire at AutoZone Auto Parts Store, 11554 Airline Highway. Also on June 1, 2020, Baton Rouge Fire Department investigators responded to two separate fires, at Tiger Tire Shop, 4415 Plank Road, and at AAA Tire Shop, 6160 Airline Highway. All four fires were determined to be arson.
The criminal complaint further alleges that, on June 4, 2020, Dorsey, Huggins, and Johnson were arrested on state charges connected to the four arsons and, after being advised of their Miranda rights, admitted to conspiring with each other to set fire to commercial buildings. They stated that, prior to setting the fires, they attended the protests on Siegen Lane in Baton Rouge. Each stated that he or she was motived to commit arson as part of the current protest activities concerning police conduct.
U.S. Attorney Fremin commended the outstanding actions and efforts of the law enforcement agencies who worked to quickly identify the suspects and bring these charges, including the St. George Fire Protection District, Baton Rouge Fire Department, Baton Rouge Police Department, East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Fire Marshal, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul Pugliese. If convicted, each defendant faces a sentence of five to twenty years in prison.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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.
Suicidal man sentenced after deliberately ramming stolen pickup truck into military baseRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 48-year-old Beeville man has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction for destruction of U.S. government property and possession of a stolen firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Brian Dale Robinson pleaded guilty Nov. 21, 2019.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos ordered Robinson to prison for 33 months to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. He was further ordered to pay restitution of more than $12,000 to Naval Air Station (NAS) in Corpus Christi. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the dangerousness of Robinson’s conduct.
At the time of his plea, Robinson admitted he knew the firearm in his possession was stolen and he intentionally damaged federal property. He had hit a barricade located at the North gate entrance of NAS - Corpus Christi.
On Oct. 7, 2019, Robinson was at a gas station in Beeville when he spotted a Dodge Ram 3500 pickup truck with the engine running. He then entered that vehicle without permission and drove straight to Corpus Christi. There, he approached the NAS and attempted to gain unauthorized access to the base by crashing through the gate. However, the vehicle became inoperable after he hit the barricade.
Robinson exited the pickup truck and fled on foot into the base with a handgun he had stolen from the vehicle and hid next to a dumpster. He was located by base security personnel who immediately arrested him. Robinson claimed he had suicidal thoughts. However, he opted to drop the weapon so no one else would be hurt. Following his arrest, they located an HS Produkt, model XDM-9, 9mm pistol loaded with a full magazine.
He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Naval Criminal Investigative Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. Thorpe Jr. prosecuted the case.
Suburban Pittsburgh Man Indicted for Obstructing Law Enforcement during Civil DisorderRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A residents of Shaler Township, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on a charge of Obstruction of Law Enforcement During Civil Disorder, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count indictment named Brian Jordan Bartels, 20, Allison Park, PA 15101.
According to the indictment and criminal complaint filed with the court, on May 30, 2020, Bartels interfered with and obstructed the Pittsburgh Police during the course of the civil disorder that occurred in connection with the protests which took place in downtown Pittsburgh on that day. In particular, Bartels is charged with initiating the destruction of a marked police vehicle that was parked on Centre Avenue above the PPG Arena. The complaint alleges that Bartels threw rocks at the vehicle, broke a window, stomped through the windshield and spray painted the vehicle. Shortly thereafter, members of the crowd set fire to the vehicle, completely destroying it.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Statement from U.S. Attorney Duncan Regarding Community DemonstrationsRead the Press Release
In recent days, many have gathered in cities throughout the Eastern District of Kentucky to express anger, frustration, and grief, and to seek understanding, equity, and justice. Those attending are exercising important rights bestowed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, including the freedom of speech, the right to peaceably assemble, and right to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. I support their exercise of these fundamental rights.
We are truly fortunate that our District has not experienced the acute violence witnessed in other areas across the country. Across our District, the majority of those demonstrating have been peaceful and responsible in presenting their message for understanding and change. Significant credit is due to the demonstrators, as well as the police departments in these communities.
As these demonstrations bear witness, there are genuine concerns regarding the influence of racism in society and people are rightly moved to pursue change. It is imperative that we work to build trust in the criminal justice system and ensure justice for all. It is equally important that we engage with community leaders to find constructive solutions to other critical problems. I pledge my commitment to these essential efforts.
The Constitution mandates equal protection under the law. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky will continue to work tirelessly to achieve just that. True Justice simply compels it.
Springfield Man Who Pointed Pistol at Police Officer Sentenced for Illegal FirearmRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Missouri, man who pointed a loaded pistol at police officers during a car and foot chase was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm.
Matthew D. Billingslea, 31, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to nine years in federal prison without parole.
On Sept. 11, 2019, Billingslea pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
A Springfield police officer attempted to stop Billingslea, who was driving a Ford Taurus, for having an inoperable headlight and rear-license-plate lamp at the intersection of Campbell Avenue and Battlefield Road near midnight on Dec. 7, 2018. When the officer activated his patrol vehicle’s lights, Billingslea refused to stop and accelerated away. Another officer located the vehicle and attempted to stop Billingslea, but he fled again. The officer soon found the Taurus, abandoned by Billingslea, in the front yard of a residence on South Roanoke Avenue.
A few minutes later, another officer located Billingslea walking north on Jefferson Avenue. When the officer asked Billingslea to take his hand out of his pocket, Billingslea was holding a loaded Kel-Tec .380-caliber semi-automatic pistol.
Billingslea pointed the firearm at the officer and yelled, “Don’t do it!” The officer took cover behind his patrol vehicle, and Billingslea hid behind a vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence on South Jefferson Avenue. Billingslea then rose from behind the vehicle and again, pointed the firearm at the officer and yelled, “Don’t do it!” Billingslea then fled through a fence on the north side of the residence and south through a back yard.
Officers used a police service canine to track Billingslea to the back yard of a residence located on South Jefferson Avenue. The service canine bit Billingslea’s right arm; he was holding the firearm in his left hand. An officer ordered Billingslea to drop the firearm and he refused. During the confrontation, Billingslea dropped the firearm, which was seized by an officer.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Billingslea has 23 prior misdemeanors and four prior felony convictions (including two firearms offenses). At the time of his arrest in this case, Billingslea was on probation for pointing a stolen firearm at the mother of one of his children.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nhan D. Nguyen. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Ozarks Drug Enforcement Team, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with federal, state, and local law enforcement to specifically identify criminals responsible for significant violent crime in the Western District of Missouri. A centerpiece of this effort is Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program that brings together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Safe Neighborhoods is an evidence-based program that identifies the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develops comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, Project Safe Neighborhoods focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Enoch Fields, age 38, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Fields was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 4, 2019. He pled guilty on March 5, 2020.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between October 28, 2018, and June 18, 2019, when Fields knowingly possessed and attempted to possess images of child pornography. Fields admitted possessing child pornography images and video files on his cell phone and in his email account.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, the Sioux Falls Police Department, the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Fields was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Seven Foreign Nationals Charged in Maritime Drug Trafficking InterdictionsRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Seven foreign nationals who were detained by the U.S. Coast Guard in international waters have been charged for their respective roles in attempting to smuggle hundreds of kilograms of cocaine and marijuana into the United States.
Since November 2018, members of the DEA Hampton Post of Duty, in partnership with DEA Bogota, Homeland Security Investigations Norfolk, and the Hampton Police Division, have been investigating maritime smuggling operations based on the Pacific coast of Colombia.
According to court documents, in May 2020, members of the investigative team learned of an operation to transport over 400 kilograms of cocaine from the area of Punta Aji on the west coast of Colombia to an awaiting vessel being dispatched from Central America.
On May 16, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Cutter Confidence detected a Go-Fast Vessel (GFV) with no indicia of nationality 123 nautical miles southeast of Punta Naranjo, Panama, in international waters. As USCG personnel approached the GFV, the crew of the GFV began to jettison fuel barrels and packages into the ocean.
After gaining positive control of the GFV, a USCG boarding team encountered Colombian nationals Dalmiro Camacho, 55, Marcos R. Salas, 28, and Yivio C. Valencia, 33, and subsequently recovered 14 bales containing approximately 494 kilograms of cocaine from the ocean.
In a separate case, according to court documents, in May 2020, members of the investigative team learned of a GFV that was planning to transport nearly 1,500 kilograms of marijuana from the area of Punta Aji to an awaiting vessel being dispatched from Central America. On May 19, USCG Cutter James detected a GFV with no indicia of nationality located in the area of 83 nautical miles southwest of El Cacao, Panama, in international waters.
After gaining positive control of the GFV, a USCG boarding team encountered Costa Rican nationals Junior Smith-Meria, 28, Juan Emiliano Sanchez-Cascante, 30, Julio Cesar-Flores, 22, and Manfred Deihann Hidalgo-Ching, 28, and subsequently seized approximately 88 bales containing approximately 1,500 kilograms of marijuana.
The defendants are charged with the manufacture, distribution, or possession of a controlled substance on a vessel. If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), Operation Fuhz. The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Jesse R. Fong, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Field Division; Raymond Villanueva, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C.; and Terry L. Sult, Chief of Hampton Police Division, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric M. Hurt is prosecuting the cases.
Investigative participation and assistance was provided by Newport News Sheriff’s Office, York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office, Newport News Police Department, and the Virginia State Police.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 4:20-mj-52 to 58.
Selection Committee Named for Project Safe Neighborhoods Grant ProgramRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Three people will begin their service as part of the selection committee for the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods grants program, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced today.
“I’m pleased that these three distinguished public servants have agreed to serve as members of an external panel that will review applications for grants under the Project Safe Neighborhoods program,” U.S. Attorney Carpenito said. “They each come from a background of extensive public service and each bring a unique perspective to this process.”
The three members of the selection committee are:
John Hoffman, currently General Counsel for Rutgers University, where he oversees a group of 21 attorneys responsible for several hundred litigation matters and general university affairs. Mr. Hoffman served as the state’s Acting Attorney General from June 2013 through March 2016. Before that, he served in the senior leadership team of Attorney General Jeffrey Chiesa, as executive assistant Attorney General, and before that he served as director of the Division of Investigations for the State Comptroller’s Office.
Hoffman also has extensive experience in federal government: seven years as a trial attorney for the Civil Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, and from 2004 to 2010 as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, where he focused primarily on economic and white-collar criminal prosecutions.
Among his achievements as Acting Attorney General, Mr. Hoffman led an initiative to equip police with body-worn cameras and established a new policy directive on police-involved shooting incidents, improving the relationship between law enforcement and diverse communities. He spearheaded several initiatives to address the heroin and opiates epidemic in the state, including the enhancement of the Prescription Monitoring Program to suppress the misuse of prescription medications, and launched the opiate antidote Narcan program to law enforcement agencies statewide resulting in nearly 3,000 overdose reversals.
J. Scott Thomson is Executive Director of Global Security at Holtec International, a diversified energy technology company. Before joining the company, Mr. Thomson was the Chief of the Camden County Police Department, where he pioneered an innovative strategy that significantly transformed the public safety profile of the city of Camden, a city that was once labeled as the “Nation’s Most Dangerous City.” He created a new police department that was responsible for achieving unprecedented reductions in crime, culminating in a 50-year low in 2018. To achieve this, Mr. Thomson developed unique strategies, harnessed technologies, and bolstered an organizational culture that led to President of the United States in 2015 recognizing his department as a model for 21st Century policing.
Mr. Thomson has served on numerous boards and committees of leading institutions including the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, the United States Attorney General Global Advisory Committee, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and was a founding member of the Harvard University Law Enforcement Summit Executive Leadership Group. He has also served as an adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University, School of Administrative Science.
From 2015 to 2019, Mr. Thomson was the elected President of the Police Executive Research Forum, a Washington, D.C., policing think-tank which represents more than 3,000 international law enforcement executives.
Andrea P. McCoy Johnson most recently served as the Re-Entry and Outreach Coordinator for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of New Jersey. A 20-year veteran of the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, Ms. McCoy Johnson’s lifelong commitment to public safety, community engagement and criminal justice reform is exhibited in her career in public service. She has combined her interests in youth, criminal justice and community engagement, while working with community groups, law enforcement, and young people.
At the U.S. Attorney’s Office, she implemented Project L.E.A.D. (Legal Enrichment and Decision-Making), where she and other colleagues worked with fifth-graders at schools in Newark, Trenton and Camden. She considered this position the perfect “retirement” position as it allowed her to serve as a liaison between the community and law enforcement, create programs that focus on youth prevention, community awareness and education and allowed her to continue to serve as a public servant who gives back to her community. She also taught criminal justice classes at Rutgers University in the School of Criminal Justice, where she shared her love of juvenile justice reform, criminal justice and community collaboration with the next generation of criminal justice leaders.
After 17 years as an Assistant Prosecutor and Unit Supervisor with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, in 2013, Andrea was elevated to the position of Executive Assistant Prosecutor, where she was responsible for all aspects of human resources, labor and contract negotiations in an Office of over 400 employees, as well as management of the support staff. Prior to that, she supervised the Juvenile Trial, Community Justice and Victim Witness Advocacy Units and served as an Assistant Prosecutor in the Juvenile Trial and Official Corruption and Economic Crime Units.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is designed to create and foster safer neighborhoods through a sustained reduction in violent crime, including, but not limited to, addressing criminal gangs and the felonious possession and use of firearms. The program's effectiveness depends upon the ongoing coordination, cooperation, and partnerships of local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies – and the communities they serve – engaged in a unified approach led by the U.S. Attorney in all 94 districts.
Sea Cucumber Smuggler Sentenced to Eight Months JailRead the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorney Melanie K. Pierson (619) 546-7976
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – June 9, 2020
SAN DIEGO –Claudia Castillo of Tijuana was sentenced in federal court today to eight months in custody for smuggling endangered sea cucumber into the United States from Mexico. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey T. Miller handed down the sentence and also ordered Castillo to pay $12,000 restitution to the government of Mexico.
Castillo previously pleaded guilty to Conspiring to Import Merchandise Contrary to Law, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371 and 545.
At the time of her guilty plea, Castillo admitted that between January 19, 2018 and September 4, 2019, she conspired with others to smuggle and illegally import sea cucumbers of the species Isostichopus fuscus into the United States from Mexico. Castillo obtained bags containing approximately 2 kg of the sea cucumbers from others in Mexico and would either smuggle the packages into the United States herself, or deliver the packages to others she recruited in order to be smuggled into the United States. Castillo directed the individuals she recruited to deliver the sea cucumbers to a self-storage unit near the border in San Ysidro, California, where the sea cucumber could be accessed by others for further transportation and sale
Castillo had the individuals she recruited provide her with photographs of the sea cucumbers within the self-storage unit as proof of delivery, and when delivery was confirmed, she would pay them $7 for each bag that was delivered. Castillo herself was stopped at the border with six bags of undeclared sea cucumbers hidden in her vehicle in May of 2018.
The sea cucumbers involved were identified as Isostichopus fuscus, a species listed on Appendix III of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). In order to import a CITES species into the United States, the importer must comply with CITES and its implementing regulations, pursuant to Section 1538(c)(1) of Title 16 of the United States Code. Sections 23.13 and 23.27 of Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations prohibits the importation of species listed under Appendix II and III, without a CITES certificate of origin and a CITES export permit from the originating country.
Castillo knew that neither she nor her assistants possessed the necessary CITES documents for the sea cucumber. In order to import a commercial quantity of sea cucumber into the United States, a license from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is required, pursuant to Section 1538(d)(1) of Title 16 of the United States Code. Neither Castillo nor her associates possessed such a license. The fair market value of the sea cucumbers illegally imported as a part of this conspiracy was between $40,000 and $95,000.
Judge Miller required payment of restitution to the government of Mexico of $12,000 for the loss of their natural resources, based on the defendant’s ability to pay.
“Illegal trafficking in fish and wildlife is big business,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer. “We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect endangered wildlife.” Brewer thanked prosecutor Melanie Pierson and U.S. Fish and Wildlife agents for their hard work on this case.
“Illegal wildlife trafficking is a serious crime that impacts species around the world including important marine species that are critical to the ocean ecosystems,” said Dan Crum, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement. “The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to impeding this illicit trade coming through our borders, and hope that today's sentencing will send a message to others who choose to ignore the law.”
DEFENDANT Case Number 19cr4039-JM
Claudia Castillo Age: 49 Tijuana, Mexico
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371
Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and $250,000 fine
AGENCY
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Office of Law Enforcement
San Diego Man Sentenced to 85 Years in Prison for 10 Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorneys Matthew Brehm (619) 546-8983 and Shital Thakkar (619) 546-8785
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – June 8, 2020
SAN DIEGO – Juan Marquis Holiday of San Diego was sentenced in federal court today to 85 years in prison after a federal jury found him guilty of robbing and attempting to rob 10 local businesses by brandishing a firearm during the robberies and, on five occasions, discharging a firearm.
During the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Battaglia noted that Holiday’s crimes were “violent and aggressive” and “caused fear in the hearts of victims.” He added: “The community should not and will not tolerate this type of physical violence and misbehavior.”
During trial, more than 12 victims testified that they were threatened with a firearm during the robberies, which occurred in January and April of 2017. Some of those victims also described having shots fired past their heads, being pistol whipped, kicked and beaten.
“This defendant committed 10 armed robberies in less than five months,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer. “The many victims of these robberies will forever live with the emotional scars of being threatened with a firearm. We are gratified that today’s sentence recognizes the pain and suffering this defendant inflicted on our community.” Brewer thanked prosecutor Matt Brehm as well as our law enforcement partners for their hard work on this case.
“The violence, intimidation, and fear imposed by Mr. Holiday was stopped when he was arrested by our law enforcement team, but today the victims of this terrifying crime spree can begin to heal knowing that justice has been delivered,” said Omer Meisel, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the San Diego Field Office. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure violent crime is stopped and follow through until justice is reached.”
Holiday’s co-defendant, Don Wayne Jones III, pleaded guilty in 2018 and was sentenced to 30 years and one day in custody.
This case is the result of the ongoing efforts of the Violent Crime and Human Trafficking (VCHT) Section. Formed in 2019 by U.S. Attorney Brewer, the VCHT is tasked with leading collaborations between federal and local law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of cases involving violent crimes, firearms and gang cases; sex trafficking and child exploitation; civil rights, labor trafficking and alien smuggling. The VCHT Section oversees the Southern District of California Coordinators for Project Safe Neighborhoods, Human Trafficking, and Project Safe Childhood.
DEFENDANT Case Number 17cr1370-AJB
Juan Marquis Holiday Age: 27 San Diego, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Interference with Commerce by Threats or Violence – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1951(a)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
Attempted Interference with Commerce by Threats or Violence – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1951(a)
Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $250,000 fine
Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence –
Title 18, U.S.C., Section 924(c)
Maximum penalty: Life in prison; a mandatory minimum seven years in prison; and $250,000 fine
Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence –
Title 18, U.S.C., Section 924(c)
Maximum penalty: Life in prison; a mandatory minimum 10 years in prison; and $250,000 fine
AGENCIES
Federal Bureau of Investigation
San Diego Police Department
San Diego Sheriff’s Department
La Mesa Police Department
VICTIM BUSINESSES
Robbery No.
Date
Victim
Address
1
1/5/2017
Arco Gas Station
3724 Del Sol Blvd, San Diego, CA
2
1/11/2017
Parry Liquor
4707 Federal Blvd., San Diego, CA
3
1/11/2017
Par Liquor
5055 Federal Blvd., San Diego, CA
4
1/11/2017
Greene Cat Liquor
5102 Imperial Avenue, San Diego, CA
5
4/6/2017
Market at the Ranch
10299 Scripps Trail, San Diego, CA
6
4/19/2017
7-Eleven
9365 Jamacha Blvd., Spring Valley, CA
7
4/20/2017
Eastridge Liquor
7705 University Ave. La Mesa, CA
8
4/20/2017
Apollo Market
2327 Reo Drive, San Diego, CA
9
4/20/2017
G&M Market
8903 Jamacha Road, Spring Valley, CA
10
4/22/2017
Victoria’s Mexican Grill
1912 Coronado Ave., San Diego, CA
Samson Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison Following Federal Drug Distribution ConvictionsRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama – On Tuesday, June 9, 2020, Derrick Lomont Hornsby, Jr., a 25-year-old man from Samson, Alabama, was sentenced to 60 months in prison, announced United States Attorney Louis V. Franklin, Sr. Following his prison sentence, Hornsby will be on supervised release for three years. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on July 3, 2018, the Samson Police Department was responding to a disturbance call at an apartment complex. When officers arrived, they noticed that the door of an adjoining apartment—where Hornsby resided— was damaged and appeared to have been forcibly opened. Officers entered the apartment to investigate further and found methamphetamine and marijuana. More drugs were found in Hornsby’s car. On December 4, 2019, a federal grand jury indicted Hornsby on two counts of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. He pleaded guilty to both charges on February 24, 2020.
The Samson Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigated this case, with assistance from the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Davidson prosecuted the case.
Springdale Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Fayetteville, Arkansas – David Clay Fowlkes, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, announced that Ricardo Uribe, age 37 of Springdale, AR was sentenced today to 60 months in federal prison followed by 4 years of supervised release on one count of Distribution of More Than 50 Grams of a Mixture of Methamphetamine. The Honorable Judge Timothy L. Brooks presided over the sentencing hearing today in the United States District Court in Fayetteville.
According to court records in March of 2019, special agents with Homeland Security Investigations, the Rogers Police Department and the Benton County Drug Unit initiated an investigation into Uribe concerning his drug distribution in Northwest Arkansas. Throughout the course of the investigation, investigators were able to conduct several controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Uribe.
Uribe was indicted by a federal grand jury in August of 2019, and entered a guilty plea in February of 2020.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Rogers Police Department, and the Benton County Drug Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Amy Driver prosecuted the case for the Western District of Arkansas.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Defrauding Social SecurityRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of government funds, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one count Indictment named Deontae Maurice Howard, 29, of Pittsburgh, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, between December 2017, and May 2019, Howard embezzled Social Security Income benefits from the Social Security Administration in excess of $1,000.00.
The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration-OIG conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pacificorp to Pay $3.4 Million in Civil Settlement for Ramsey Canyon FireRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams announced today that PacifiCorp, a Portland-based utility that provides electricity to several states, including Oregon, has agreed to pay $3.4 million to settle allegations by the United States relating to the August 2018 Ramsey Canyon Fire in Jackson County, Oregon.
The Ramsey Canyon Fire ignited on August 22, 2018 near the base of a PacifiCorp transmission line 12 miles northwest of Eagle Point, Oregon. The fire burned approximately 1,888 acres of federal, state, and private land, including 930 acres of land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The United States sought more than $4.8 million in suppression costs and resource damages.
PacifiCorp is an Oregon corporation headquartered in Portland. The company has a utility right-of-way on BLM land in Jackson and Douglas Counties on which it owns and operates the Dixonville-to-Meridian 500kV transmission line. The United States contends that the fire was caused by the failure of a connector on a transmission structure that PacifiCorp failed to properly install, inspect and maintain. The settlement is not an admission of liability of by PacifiCorp. PacifiCorp denies the United States’ contentions.
“Each year, countless Oregonians live with the recurring threat of wildfires jeopardizing their safety and personal property. Sadly, thousands of acres of public and private land are burned by preventable fires” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “Our office is committed to protecting these lands.”
“Oregon’s forest resources are important to the well-being and economy of dozens of small communities, and the BLM manages these resources for the benefit of all Americans. The loss of these lands and the cost of fighting this fire represent a significant loss to taxpayers, and we’re pleased this settlement will help recoup those costs,” said William Perry Pendley, BLM Deputy Director, Policy and Programs. “Congratulations to the career BLM employees who provided the expertise to assess the damage done to the public's lands and to recover these costs for the benefit of the American taxpayer.”
The Oregon Department of Forestry assisted the BLM and the U.S. Forest Service in investigating this case. The United States was represented in this matter by Carla McClurg, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Oshkosh Resident Sentenced to Federal Prison for Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that Brian G. Galston (age 36) of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, was sentenced on June 8, 2020, by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach for being a felon in possession of a firearm, contrary to 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g). Galston received a 60-month prison term and was ordered to serve a three-year term of supervised release following the prison term. With Galston’s consent, the sentencing was conducted via Zoom video conferencing.
According to the plea agreement and other court documents, a confidential informant advised Oshkosh Police Department (OPD) that Brian Galston, a convicted felon, was selling drugs from his apartment in Oshkosh. On May 13, 2019, OPD officers were dispatched to the apartment in response to a domestic dispute involving Galston. When OPD executed a search warrant at the apartment, officers found a loaded, Glock .45 pistol under the mattress of the bed in the master bedroom.
On June 3, 2019, OPD met with a second confidential informant, who advised that he had been purchasing crack from Galston since 2017. The informant stated he provided two firearms to Galston, including the Glock .45 pistol, as collateral for obtaining crack. The informant indicated that he has been trying to persuade Galston to return the firearm but he refused to do so and instead was threatened by Galston.
In imposing sentence, Judge Griesbach stressed that Galston’s prior record, including delivery of cocaine, child abuse, and other violent criminal convictions, warranted a significant sentence in order to protect the community and deter others from engaging in that type of conduct. Judge Griesbach also cited the need for a significant prison term because Galston possessed the firearm while involved in drug dealing.
This case was investigated by the Oshkosh Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William Roach.
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Oak Grove Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Distributing Heroin Resulting in Fatal OverdoseRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Oak Grove, Missouri, man was sentenced in federal court today for distributing the heroin that resulted in the overdose death of an Arizona man visiting his family in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
Joshua Austin Leroux, 35, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 20 years in federal prison without parole.
On Nov. 13, 2019, Leroux pleaded guilty to one count of distributing heroin that caused the death of a man identified in court documents as “M.A.C.”Leroux admitted that he distributed heroin to M.A.C. on Sept. 3, 2017. After M.A.C. acquired the heroin from Leroux, he ingested it at some point on Sept. 3, or the morning of Sept. 4, 2017. The Jackson County Medical Examiner, after conducting an autopsy, declared that the cause of M.A.C.’s death was heroin intoxication.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney D. Michael Green. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jackson County Drug Task Force.
Naples Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell today sentenced Ancelot Similien to 22 months in federal prison for preparing and filing false federal income tax returns. The court ordered Similien to pay $103,393 to the IRS in restitution. Similien had pleaded guilty on March 5, 2020.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, Similien was the owner and operator of D’Lux Tax Inc. (“DTI”), a tax preparation business located in Naples, Florida. For the tax years 2013 through 2016, Similien prepared and filed false and fraudulent Forms 1040 (Individual U.S. Income Tax Returns) for his clients. The tax returns contained material falsities, including false Schedule C business losses and false Schedule A itemized deductions. As a result, Similien caused larger income tax refunds to be issued to his clients than what they were entitled.
Similien continued to prepare and file false returns, even after suspension of his Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN), by using an EFIN assigned to another individual. Similien prepared a double set of returns, one for the IRS, and one for his clients that did not show the false items reported on the returns filed with the IRS. Similien “skimmed” some of the refunds issued to the taxpayers by retaining portions of the fraudulent refunds for his own personal use, in addition to charging the taxpayers tax return preparation fees.
“As most Americans are aware, the tax filing season was extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but that doesn’t mean crime takes a break or that the wheels of justice stop,” stated Special Agent in Charge Brian Payne of IRS Criminal Investigation. “The sentencing today of Mr. Similien should send a warning to fraudulent return preparers to beware that we are still watching. Moreover, taxpayers must practice due diligence in selecting a reputable and qualified tax return preparer.”
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey F. Michelland.
Multi-Convicted Felon Will Serve 20 Years in Prison for Violating Federal Firearms and Drug LawsRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Braddock, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 20 years’ imprisonment and 6 years’ supervised release on his conviction of violating federal drug and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Mario Tiller, 41.
In connection with the sentencing, the court was advised that on June 19, 2018, Pittsburgh Police surveilled the intersection of Federal Street and Eloise Street following citizen complaints of open-air drug trafficking in the area. During their surveillance, they saw the defendant sell suspected drugs to multiple people. Upon arresting Tiller, police seized over three dozen individually knotted bags of crack, $109 in U.S. currency, a Glock 9 millimeter pistol with six rounds of 9 millimeter ammunition in the magazine, an additional magazine containing 6 rounds of ammunition, a ZTE smart phone, and a pistol holder. The gun had been reported stolen that same morning. Tiller pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on December 5, 2019. The court was further advised that Tiller had previously been convicted of multiple crimes punishable by more than one year in prison, including two convictions for possession with intent to deliver controlled substances, two convictions for terroristic threats, and one conviction for theft by unlawful taking. Federal law prohibits anyone who has been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive, along with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Tiller. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods (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.
Montour Falls Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead 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 Michael J. Truesdail, 39, of Montour Falls, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to possession of child pornography involving prepubescent minors. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that on March 27, 2019, a federal search warrant was executed at the defendant’s Henry Street residence. A number of electronic items were seized including two computers, a hard drive, an SD card, and two thumb drives. A forensic analysis recovered more than 8,000 images and 10 video files, some of which depict children engaged in sexual activity with other children and with adults.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Robert Guyton.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 10, 2020, before Judge Geraci.
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Mobile Woman Charged After Smashing Police Car Window During Mobile ProtestsRead the Press Release
Richard W. Moore, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Alabama, announced today that a Mobile woman has been charged by criminal complaint with obstructing, impeding, and interfering with law enforcement during the course of a civil disorder that affected interstate commerce. Tia Deyon Pugh will make her initial appearance in United States District Court today at 10:30 a.m. before Magistrate Judge P. Bradley Murray.
According to the criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court and unsealed today, Pugh attended the May 31, 2020 protest in downtown Mobile following the death of George Floyd while in the custody of the Minneapolis Police Department. The affidavit filed in connection with the complaint alleges that Pugh and her fiancée both brought bats to the protest.
The complaint alleges that during the course of the protest, some individuals, including Pugh, left the main protest route and congregated on the Interstate 10 on-ramp at the intersection of Government Street and Water Street. Mobile Police Department Officers were deployed to the scene to prevent the protesters from walking up the on-ramp and blocking the westbound traffic on I-10. Protesters refused to follow MPD orders to disperse, and the scene became chaotic. During this chaos, according to the complaint, Pugh approached a marked and occupied MPD vehicle and used the bat she brought to the protest to smash in the passenger side window.
As alleged in the complaint, due to the protesters’ presence on the Water Street on-ramp, MPD was forced to close the I-10 exits at Water Street westbound and Exit 26B eastbound. These closures led to traffic disruptions on I-10. In particular, commercial vehicles carrying hazardous materials were forced to make a 19.5 mile detour to avoid the George C. Wallace Tunnel.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.Medical Technology Company President Charged in Scheme to Defraud Investors and Health Care Benefit Programs in Connection with COVID-19 TestingRead the Press Release
The president of a California-based medical technology company was charged in a complaint unsealed today in the Northern District of California, in connection with his alleged participation in schemes to mislead investors, to manipulate the company’s stock price and to conspire to commit health care fraud in connection with the submission of over $69 million in false and fraudulent claims for allergy and COVID-19 testing.
The complaint against Mark Schena, 57, of Los Altos, California, the president of Arrayit Corporation, is the first criminal securities fraud prosecution related to the COVID-19 pandemic that has been brought by the Department of Justice and charges one count of securities fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
“This defendant allegedly defrauded Medicare through illegal kickbacks and bribes, and then turned to exploiting the pandemic by fraudulently promoting an unproven COVID-19 test to the market,” said Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Working together with our law enforcement partners, the Criminal Division is committed to safeguarding the integrity of the Medicare system and protecting the investing public from securities scams.”
“The allure of cheap reliable alternatives to today’s standard blood tests panels has captured the imagination of the health care industry, making such alternatives a prime subject for fraudsters,” said U.S. Attorney David L. Anderson of the Northern District of California. “The scheme described in the complaint, in which the defendant allegedly leveraged this allure by appending the fear of the COVID-19 pandemic, amounts to a cynical multi-million dollar hoax.”
“Investigating COVID-19 fraud scams billed to federal health programs – such as those charged here – are a top priority for our agency,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven J. Ryan for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS-OIG). “The ongoing public health crisis has spawned a rash of fraudulent schemes; therefore, we will continue working with law enforcement partners to protect beneficiaries, programs and taxpayers.”
“Those seeking to maximize profits while misleading investors should expect to pay a heavy price, especially now,” said Inspector in Charge Delany De Leon-Colon of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) – Criminal Investigations Group. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is proud to work alongside the Department of Justice and our other law enforcement partners to identify and investigate anyone who capitalizes on this pandemic to commit fraud. By working together, we can keep our communities and our vulnerable populations safe from financial exploitation.”
“Scams that trade on the VA’s name to portray an air of credibility will not be tolerated,” said Special Agent in Charge Kim R. Lampkins of the Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA OIG). “These charges reflect the VA OIG’s commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate any fraudulent schemes that affect VA’s COVID-19 testing or other responses to the pandemic.”
“Today’s unsealing of the criminal complaint and the subsequent arrest of Mr. Schena are significant steps forward in this case to root out fraud and corruption being committed against the U.S. healthcare system, including the Department of Defense’s TRICARE program,” said Special Agent in Charge Bryan D. Denny, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Western Field Office. “Any attempts to subvert the integrity of the TRICARE program, especially as we all are struggling to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted, if appropriate, to preserve and recover precious taxpayer dollars.”
According to the affidavit in support of the complaint, Schena touted that Arrayit is the “only laboratory in the world that offers” revolutionary “microarray technology” that allows Arrayit to test for allergy and COVID-19 based on a drop of blood that is 250,000 times smaller than the technology touted by Theranos.
Beginning in or around 2018 and continuing to in or around February 2020, Schena and others paid kickbacks and bribes to recruiters and doctors to run an allergy screening test for 120 allergens (including things ranging from stinging insects to food allergens) on every patient regardless of medical necessity, and then made numerous misrepresentations to potential investors about Arrayit’s allergy test sales, financial condition, and its future prospects. Schena and others issued press releases and tweeted about partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, government agencies and public institutions, without disclosing that such partnerships either did not exist or were of de minimis value.
As the COVID-19 crisis began to escalate in March 2020, Schena and others made false claims concerning Arrayit’s ability to provide accurate, fast, reliable and cheap COVID-19 tests in compliance with state and federal regulations, and made numerous misrepresentations to potential investors about the COVID-19 tests and Arrayit’s future prospects for COVID-19 testing.
Schena stated that it was simple to develop a test for COVID-19 because the switch from testing for allergies to testing for COVID-19 was “like a pastry chef” who switches from selling “strawberry pies” to selling “rhubarb and strawberry pies.” Arrayit’s stock price doubled in mid-March, but Schena and others never disclosed that there were questions about the validity of its data and the accuracy of its COVID-19 test.
A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The Fraud Section uses the Victim Notification System (VNS) to provide victims with case information and updates related to this case. Victims with questions may contact the Fraud Section’s Victim Assistance Unit by calling the Victim Assistance phone line at 1-888-549-3945 or by emailing [email protected]. To learn more about victims’ rights, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/criminal-vns/victim-rights-derechos-de-las-v-ctimas. If you believe you are a victim who has invested in Arrayit, or you have taken a COVID-19 test prepared or marketed by Arrayit, please visit https://www.justice.gov/criminal-vns/case/Arrayit.
HHS-OIG’s San Francisco Regional Office and Detroit Regional Office, USPIS, the FBI, VA-OIG and DCIS investigated the case. Assistant Chiefs Jacob Foster and Justin Weitz of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney William Frentzen of the Northern District of California are prosecuting the case. The department appreciates the assistance of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn mode about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Medical Technology Company President Charged in Scheme to Defraud Investors and Health Care Benefit Programs in Connection with COVID-19 TestingRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – The president of a California-based medical technology company was charged in a complaint unsealed today in the Northern District of California, in connection with his alleged participation in schemes to mislead investors, to manipulate the company’s stock price and to conspire to commit health care fraud in connection with the submission of over $69 million in false and fraudulent claims for allergy and COVID-19 testing.
The complaint against Mark Schena, 57, of Los Gatos, California, the president of Arrayit Corporation, is the first criminal securities fraud prosecution related to the COVID-19 pandemic that has been brought by the Department of Justice and charges one count of securities fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud.
“The allure of cheap reliable alternatives to today’s standard blood tests panels has captured the imagination of the health care industry, making such alternatives a prime subject for fraudsters,” said U.S. Attorney David L. Anderson of the Northern District of California. “The scheme described in the complaint, in which the defendant allegedly leveraged this allure by appending the fear of the Covid 19 pandemic, amounts to a cynical multi-million dollar hoax.”
“This defendant allegedly defrauded Medicare through illegal kickbacks and bribes, and then turned to exploiting the pandemic by fraudulently promoting an unproven COVID-19 test to the market,” said Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Working together with our law enforcement partners, the Criminal Division is committed to safeguarding the integrity of the Medicare system and protecting the investing public from securities scams.”
“Investigating COVID-19 fraud scams billed to federal health programs – such as those charged here – are a top priority for our agency,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven J. Ryan for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “The ongoing public health crisis has spawned a rash of fraudulent schemes; therefore, we will continue working with law enforcement partners to protect beneficiaries, programs and taxpayers.”
“Those seeking to maximize profits while misleading investors should expect to pay a heavy price, especially now,” said Inspector in Charge Delany De Leon-Colon of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) – Criminal Investigations Group. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is proud to work alongside the Department of Justice and our other law enforcement partners to identify and investigate anyone who capitalizes on this pandemic to commit fraud. By working together, we can keep our communities and our vulnerable populations safe from financial exploitation.”
“Scams that trade on VA’s name to portray an air of credibility will not be tolerated,” said Special Agent in Charge Kim R. Lampkins of the Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA OIG). “These charges reflect the VA OIG’s commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate any fraudulent schemes that affect VA’s COVID-19 testing or other responses to the pandemic.”
“Today’s unsealing of the criminal complaint and the subsequent arrest of Mr. Schena are significant steps forward in this case to root out fraud and corruption being committed against the U.S. healthcare system, including the Department of Defense’s TRICARE program,” said Special Agent in Charge Bryan D. Denny, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Western Field Office. “Any attempts to subvert the integrity of the TRICARE program, especially as we all are struggling to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted, if appropriate, to preserve and recover precious taxpayer dollars.”
According to the affidavit in support of the complaint, Schena touted that Arrayit is the “only laboratory in the world that offers” revolutionary “microarray technology” that allows Arrayit to test for allergy and COVID-19 based on a drop of blood that is 250,000 times smaller than the technology touted by Theranos. Beginning in or around 2018 and continuing to in or around February 2020, Schena and others paid kickbacks and bribes to recruiters and doctors to run an allergy screening test for 120 allergens (including things ranging from stinging insects to food allergens) on every patient regardless of medical necessity, and then made numerous misrepresentations to potential investors about Arrayit’s allergy test sales, financial condition, and its future prospects. Schena and others issued press releases and tweeted about partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, government agencies and public institutions, without disclosing that such partnerships either did not exist or were of de minimis value.
As the COVID-19 crisis began to escalate in March 2020, Schena and others made false claims concerning Arrayit’s ability to provide accurate, fast, reliable and cheap COVID-19 tests in compliance with state and federal regulations, and made numerous misrepresentations to potential investors about the COVID-19 tests and Arrayit’s future prospects for COVID-19 testing.
Schena stated that it was simple to develop a test for COVID-19 because the switch from testing for allergies to testing for COVID-19 was “like a pastry chef” who switches from selling “strawberry pies” to selling “rhubarb and strawberry pies.” Arrayit’s stock price doubled in mid-March, but Schena and others never disclosed that there were questions about the validity of its data and the accuracy of its COVID-19 test.
A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The Fraud Section uses the Victim Notification System (VNS) to provide victims with case information and updates related to this case. Victims with questions may contact the Fraud Section’s Victim Assistance Unit by calling the Victim Assistance phone line at 1-888-549-3945 or by emailing [email protected]. To learn more about victims’ rights, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/criminal-vns/victim-rights-derechos-de-las-v-ctimas.
HHS-OIG’s San Francisco Regional Office and Detroit Regional Office, USPIS, the FBI, VA-OIG and DCIS investigated the case. Assistant Chiefs Jacob Foster and Justin Weitz of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney William Frentzen of the Northern District of California are prosecuting the case. The department appreciates the assistance of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn mode about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Man Pleads Guilty after Robbing a Bank with a Modified Flare GunRead the Press Release
A Tulsa man pleaded guilty Monday in U.S. District Court for robbing an Arvest Bank using a modified flare gun, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores.
Derek Dean Darity, 50, pleaded guilty to bank robbery with a dangerous weapon and to using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
“Derek Darity discharged a flare gun while robbing a bank here in Tulsa. Bank robbers like Darity should expect to meet a federal prosecutor in the courtroom. When you put in danger the lives of Oklahomans, you better believe we take notice,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “I am grateful to our law enforcement partners who investigated this case and to the Florida Highway Patrol for locating and arresting Darity so he could face justice in northern Oklahoma.”
In his written plea agreement, Darity admitted that on Oct. 21, 2019, he robbed the Arvest Bank located at 4103 S. Garnett Road in Tulsa. During the crime, Darity handed a teller a note that warned them he had a gun and demanded the tellers put all their money into a bag. He also admitted to pulling out the orange gun and firing a shot into the ceiling. The modified flare gun was loaded with a 20-gauge shotgun shell. Darity then fled from the scene with the stolen money. He was eventually arrested on Oct. 24, 2019, in White Springs, Florida.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell set sentencing for Sept. 11, 2020.
The Tulsa Police Department; FBI; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Florida Highway Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan M. Roberts is prosecuting the case.
Man Charged with Possessing Molotov Cocktails at La Mesa ProtestRead the Press Release
Assistant U. S. Attorney Andrew Haden (619) 546-6961
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – June 9, 2020
SAN DIEGO – Zachary Alexander Karas of San Diego was charged with possessing incendiary devices known as Molotov cocktails at a protest that began on May 30th in La Mesa.
According to a complaint, Karas and his girlfriend, Kali Braj Jonkuet, were sitting on the pavement at the corner of Allison Avenue and Spring Street, in front of trolley tracks, as part of the protest in La Mesa.
At the time of the protest, several fires had been set that damaged buildings and property. Officers gave orders to the crowd, including Karas, to disperse for an unlawful assembly. Karas was arrested after he failed to leave his position. After his arrest, officers discovered that Karas possessed two glass bottles with wicks that contained gasoline. Karas also had fireworks in his possession at the time of his arrest.
A special agent with the ATF inspected the Molotov cocktails and found them to be functioning incendiary devices.
“The Constitution strongly protects the First Amendment right of all to speak out and peacefully protest,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer. “My office is committed to protecting that First Amendment right. Violence, however, by a relatively small number of opportunists who sought to wreak havoc, destroy property, and threaten the safety of peaceful protestors will not be tolerated.”
“ATF partners with its local, state and federal partners to work together to arrest dangerous individuals who pose the greatest threat to public safety,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge of Los Angeles Field Division Monique Villegas. “These partnerships are true force multipliers that enable law enforcement to identify, investigate and seek prosecution against individuals who act out violently within our communities.”
“The San Diego community has the right to be safe from violence and criminal activity while engaging in lawful protests,” said FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Omer Meisel. “The possession of an incendiary device threatened the safety of the community. The FBI will continue to work closely with our state, local and federal law enforcement partners and prosecutors to protect our citizen’s right to engage in lawful protest from those individuals engaged in violence and criminal activity.”
This Karas case is the result of the ongoing efforts of the Violent Crime and Human Trafficking (VCHT) Section. Formed in 2019, by U.S. Attorney Robert S. Brewer, Jr., the VCHT is tasked with leading collaborations between federal and local law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of cases involving violent crimes, firearms and gang cases; sex trafficking and child exploitation; civil rights, labor trafficking and alien smuggling. The VCHT Section oversees the Southern District of California Coordinators for Project Safe Neighborhoods, Human Trafficking, and Project Safe Childhood.
DEFENDANT Case Number 20mj2186
Zachary Alexander Karas Age: 28 San Diego, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Possession of an Unregistered Destructive Device – Title 26, U.S.C., Section 5861
Maximum penalty: 10 years’ imprisonment and $250,000 fine
AGENCIES
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
Federal Bureau of Investigation
La Mesa Police Department
*The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Milwaukee Man Charged with Federal Offense Aiming a Laser Pointer at Law Enforcement AircraftRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on June 8, 2020, his office filed a federal criminal complaint against Jeremiah Belen (age: 38) of Milwaukee. The complaint charges Belen with aiming a laser beam at aircraft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 39A. If convicted, Belen would face a maximum of 5 years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine.
According to the criminal complaint, from May 31, 2020, through June 7, 2020, there were several incidents of individuals pointing green laser beams at law enforcement aircraft operated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) and the Wisconsin National Guard (“WNG”). The beam is potentially blinding to pilots, and has the potential of creating a dangerous incident. On the evening of June 7, 2020, law enforcement agents on the ground observed two individuals near W. Chambers Street and N. 1st Street in the City of Milwaukee pointing a green laser beam at an FBI airplane. One of the individuals pointing the laser beam matched the description of Jeremiah Belen. On June 8, 2020, Belen was arrested and made an initial appearance in federal court.
The FBI investigated the case, which will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Margaret Honrath.
A criminal complaint is merely a formal method of charging an individual and does not constitute an inference of his or her guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until such time, if ever, that the government establishes his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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For Additional Information Contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales 414-297-1700
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Luzerne County Man Sentenced to One Year One Day Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on June 5, 2020, United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Nathaniel Murphy, age 45, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, to one year and one day in prison for trafficking in heroin.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Murphy pleaded guilty to taking part in a drug trafficking conspiracy with Juan Roman-Polanco and others, distributing heroin in Luzerne County in 2016 and 2017.
Roman-Polanco, the leader of the drug trafficking organization, previously pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge, admitting to responsibility for the distribution and possession with intent to distribute over one kilogram of heroin, one kilogram of cocaine, and over 65 grams of cocaine base. Polanco was sentenced to 151 months’ imprisonment. One kilogram of heroin is the equivalent of approximately 40,000 individual doses of heroin.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Wilkes-Barre Police Department, and Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.]
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Lexington Man Pleads Guilty to Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Lexington, Ky., man, Cheike Gueye, 35, pled guilty in federal court on Monday, before Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves, to two counts of bank robbery.
According to his plea agreement, Gueye admitted that on December 11, 2019, he robbed both the Kentucky Bank and the Blue Grass Federal Savings and Loan, in Paris, Ky. Gueye admitted to entering the banks and passing tellers a note that instructed them to give him all the money in the drawers or he would kill everybody. Gueye also admitted to carrying a toy gun in the waistband of his pants and taking measures to make it visible to bank personnel. In total, Gueye took $7,881.01 from the two banks.
Gueye was indicted in February 2020.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the FBI, Louisville Field Division; J. “Butch” Best, Chief of the Paris Police Department; Michael Bosse, Chief of the Georgetown Police Department; and Tony Asbury, Bourbon County Sheriff, jointly announced the guilty plea.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, Paris Police Department, Georgetown Police Department, and the Bourbon County Sheriff’s Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Greenfield.
Gueye is scheduled to be sentenced on October 2, 2020. He faces up to 20 years in prison for each count, and a maximum fine of $250,000. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes.
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Kinston Man Sentenced to 11 Years for Assault, Robbery and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW BERN, N.C. – A Kinston man was sentenced today to 132 months in prison for his role in a violent assault and robbery of a confidential informant that resulted in assault, robbery, and firearm charges.
According to court documents, David Carr, 21, was charged with three counts: assaulting a person assisting a federal officer, robbery of money and property of the United States and brandishing a firearm during a federal crime of violence. Carr pled not guilty and went to trial, but was found guilty on all three counts on January 8, 2020.
On March 6, 2018, Carr and a co-defendant planned to sell four firearms to a confidential informant (CI) working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The CI met with Carr to discuss the deal and Carr stated he needed to get two more firearms. Carr returned a short time later with his co-defendant and told the CI that they had drugs and the guns. Once the CI was in the car, he was held at gunpoint and threatened with Carr forcing a gun into the CI’s jaw and threatening to kill him. Carr and his co-defendant robbed the CI of $2,000.00 of ATF “buy money” and a cell phone. After a struggle, the CI was able to get out of the car and run from his assailants. The defendants immediately fled the scene. Carr was arrested the following day with the ATF buy money in his possession.
Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. ATF and Kinston Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Stephany is handling the case of the government.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:19-CR-11-FL.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Jackson Man Sentenced to Almost Three Years in Prison Under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Marlon Monta Williams, 27, of Jackson, Mississippi, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Court Judge David C. Bramlette III to 33 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Michelle A. Sutphin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Mississippi. Williams was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.
On July 10, 2017, shortly after midnight, Williams was driving a car which had a broken headlight. A Hinds County Sheriff’s Deputy spotted the malfunctioning headlight while on patrol. When the deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop using lights and siren, Williams refused to stop. Williams eventually stopped the vehicle and gave the Deputy false identifying information. An assault-style rifle with a large capacity magazine was in plain view on the front passenger seat of the vehicle.
Williams was eventually correctly identified and it was discovered that he had been previously convicted of the felony offense of burglary of a dwelling in Hinds County, Mississippi. During the course of the investigation, officers learned that Williams was on probation through the Mississippi Department of Corrections at the time of the incident. The investigation also showed that the rifle had been stolen the previous year.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hinds County Sherriff’s Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charles W. Kirkham.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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.
Jackson Man Arrested Locally for Murder and Released on Bond Sentenced to Almost Six Years under Project EJECT for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Cedric Taylor, 45, of Jackson, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge David C. Bramlette III to 71 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a gun, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Michele Sutphin with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
On March 5, 2019, officers with the Jackson Police Department executed a search warrant on Taylor’s residence in Jackson while investigating the murder of Dewan Fortner, a father of nine. Investigators recovered a firearm at the residence, which Taylor later confessed to knowingly possessing. While Taylor was arrested for murder in March 2019, he was thereafter released on a $125,000 bond, even though, according to the victim’s family, Taylor admitted in court that he had hid Fortner’s body behind a building in Byram. This bond was granted despite the fact that Taylor had previous convictions for aggravated assault in Hinds County, Mississippi, and felon in possession of a firearm in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi.
“This murderer was released on bond by a local judge and would still be roaming the streets of Jackson and terrorizing law-abiding citizens if not for the work of our office and our law enforcement partners under Project EJECT. When murderers, rapists, and other violent offenders are released on bond by local judges, we are all placed in more danger, our communities and families are made less safe, and criminals are not deterred from continuing their violent activities. If we are to improve the safety and security of our Capitol City and all of Mississippi, we must ensure that violent offenders are taken off our streets and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
After being release on a local bond, Taylor was arrested on federal charges on March 29, 2019, of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and has been detained by U.S. Marshals without bond ever since. Taylor was indicted on August 6, 2019 and pled guilty before Judge Bramlette on February 25, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn Murray.
This case is part of Project EJECT, an initiative by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Project Guardian. EJECT is a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to fighting and reducing violent crime through prosecution, prevention, re-entry and awareness. EJECT stands for “Empower Justice Expel Crime Together.” PSN is bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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.
Inmate at USP Lee Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing WeaponRead the Press Release
ABINGDON, Va. – An inmate at the USP Lee in Jonesville, Virginia, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to unlawfully possessing a weapon inside the prison, United States Attorney Thomas T. Cullen announced.
Antwan Johnson, 28, of Jonesville, pleaded guilty today to one count of possessing contraband in a prison, that contraband being a weapon. Johnson, who faces up to an additional five years in prison for his most recent offense, will be sentenced on September 3, 2020.
According to information presented at his guilty plea hearing, on January 6, 2020, Johnson was subjected to a search by Bureau of Prisons Officers before being escorted into the shower area. At that time, officers were alerted to a metal object in the defendant’s right shoe. The object discovered was approximately 7.5 inches long, made of metal, sharpened to a point at one end with a handle made of fabric on the other end.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Special Assistant United States Attorney Steven J. Luckie prosecuted the case for the United States.
Inland Empire Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Third Conviction of Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
RIVERSIDE, California – A San Bernardino man who was on federal supervised release when he was found with hundreds of videos and still images depicting child pornography has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison.
Theron Charles Barron, 28, was sentenced on Monday by United States District Judge Jesus G. Bernal – the same judge who sentenced him in his first child pornography case.
In October and November 2018, Barron possessed a total of 319 videos and 47 images of child pornography. One of the videos depicted a toddler being victimized by an adult male.
During a traffic stop in October 2018, deputies of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department seized from Barron a smartphone and a digital storage device that contained child pornography. The next month, during a search of Barron’s residence, authorities recovered another storage device that contained additional videos and images depicting child pornography.
Barron pleaded guilty in December 2019 to two counts of possession of child pornography. Once he completes the 10-year prison sentence in this case, he will be on supervised release for 15 years and he will be required to register as a sex offender.
Barron was convicted in federal court of possessing child pornography in 2014 and was sentenced to one year and one day in prison. His second conviction came in 2018 in Los Angeles Superior Court.
The latest case against Barron was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eli A. Alcaraz of the Riverside Branch Office.
Indian Man Arrested After Attempting to Smuggle Marijuana into the United StatesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, NY—U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy Jr. announced today that Arshdeep Singh, 21, a citizen of India, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possessing with intent to distribute and importation of marijuana. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a $5,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Adler, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in the early morning hours of June 5, 2020, a commercial truck carrying coffee makers and bearing Prince Edward Island, Canada license plates, attempted to enter the United States at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry. The commercial truck was referred to the Vehicle and Cargo Inspection System for a non-intrusive x-ray exam, which showed inconsistencies between the cargo in the nose of the trailer and that of the rest of the load. Officers also observed that the trailer did not have a commercial seal securing the back doors. As a result, it was referred to the Peace Bridge warehouse loading dock for a physical exam. During the initial physical exam, officers offloaded the properly identified coffee makers. They also located four skids containing seven crates that differed from the rest of the load. Inspection of the crates revealed coffee grounds. Secreted under the coffee grounds were vacuum sealed bags containing a green leafy substance. Approximately 1,608 vacuum sealed bundles of suspected marijuana, weighing nearly 1,800 lbs., were removed from the original shipment containers, with an approximate value of $2,500,000.
“Recent events have created unique challenges for our Office and our partners in law enforcement as we work together to keep our communities and our Nation safe and secure,” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “While the COVID-19 response may have slowed commerce across our Nation’s borders, this arrest proves not only that criminals persist in their efforts to break the law but that law enforcement remains vigilant in its effort to uphold it.”
“This was an excellent job by our officers from start to finish,” said Port Director Jennifer De La O. “From recognizing a shipment that needed further screening, to the identification of the anomaly during the secondary scan, to the coordination with our partners at HSI, our officers are committed to intercepting these illicit drugs from being smuggled in.”
“It is unfortunate that during a global health crisis, criminals are trying to exploit a tense situation for their own benefit,” said CBP Buffalo Field Office Director Rose Brophy. “The work of the officers has been incredible and their dedication to CBP's enforcement mission is evident in these recent large load narcotics seizures.”
Singh made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and is being detained.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction Rose Brophy, Director of Field Operations, and Homeland Security Investigations - Border Enforcement Security Team, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kelly.
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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Holyoke Man Sentenced for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Holyoke man was sentenced in federal court in Springfield today for heroin distribution.
Glenn Jacobs, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni to 20 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In January 2020, Jacobs pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute heroin.
Jacobs possessed heroin with intent to distribute it on June 12, 2019 in Holyoke. The case was the result of a joint investigation into heroin trafficking in Holyoke.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Colonel Christopher Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Holyoke Police Chief Manny Febo made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd E. Newhouse of Lelling’s Springfield Branch Office prosecuted the case.
Hearing Aid Salesmen Convicted of Committing Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
A Macomb County hearing aid dealer pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Detroit on charges of Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud, United States Attorney Matthew Schneider announced today. This follows the conviction on the same charge on March 18, 2020, of a hearing aid salesman who worked for the dealer.
Schneider was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Steven M. D’Antuono of the FBI’s Detroit Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Irene Lindlow of the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, Chicago Region (DOL-OIG), and Regional Director L. Joe Rivers, U.S. Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration, Cincinnati Regional Office (DOL-EBSA).
Rasko “Ron” Djordjevic, 44, and Milija “Mike” Perkovic, 28, each pleaded guilty to one count charged in an Indictment, involving a conspiracy to commit health care fraud. The evidence revealed that from February 2015 to April 2017, Djordjevic owned and operated Sterling Hearing Care, Inc., which was marketed as a hearing aid business with multiple locations in Southeast Michigan. Perkovic, who is Djordjevic’s brother in law, worked as a salesman conducting hearing evaluations and selling hearing aids under Djordjevic’s direction.
During that time, Djordjevic and Perkovic executed a scheme to defraud Blue Cross Blue Shield into paying fraudulent claims of more than $600,000 for hearing aid products and services.
Blue Cross had certain requirements before it would pay a claim for a hearing aid device. At times, Djordjevic and Perkovic caused Blue Cross to be billed for hearing aids and services that were not provided or were unauthorized, including billing Blue Cross for two hearing aids when only one was provided, or billing Blue Cross for hearing aids that were not ordered or provided to customers who had come in for a “free” hearing test.
At times, Djordjevic and Perkovic sold hearing aids and services to customers that were not medically necessary, including customers who had no or only slight hearing loss.
Also, Djordjevic and Perkovic provided hearing aids and services that were based on fraudulent practices. For example, they: submitted claims to Blue Cross under a spouse’s insurance policy for products not provided to that spouse and used altered medical clearances from former customers to make it look like the new customer had a medical clearance. Perkovic falsely claimed, with Djordjevic’s knowledge, that he was a doctor or audiologist and used fake x-ray photographs from the internet to show customers that they had ear damage.
Moreover, Djordjevic defrauded another health insurance company, American Hearing Benefits, out of more than $132,000. AHB contracts with companies, including AudioNet, which covers active and retired UAW members, to provide discounted hearing aid products and services. AHB required hearing aid dealers such as Sterling Hearing Care to have an AHB-credentialed audiologist on staff, who would certify the customer’s need, to bill for products and services. Djordjevic did not comply with AHB’s requirement, and instead fabricated documents that he submitted for reimbursement, including certifying that a particular audiologist had examined a customer when in fact that audiologist had not done so.
“Our office has no tolerance for health care providers that deliberately mislead customers in order to sell a medical product or service and then bill insurance companies for services and products not delivered,” stated United States Attorney Schneider. “It is especially troublesome when a provider deals with elderly customers that may be particularly vulnerable to scams. Trust your instincts and never be afraid to seek a second opinion.”
“These defendants took advantage of the trust patients have in their health care providers to provide medically unnecessary services and to increase their profits,” said Steven M. D’Antuono, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “That the patients were largely elderly makes the betrayal even greater. The FBI and our partners will vigorously investigate anyone who seeks to take advantage of our elderly population through health care fraud or any other means.”
“Djordjevic and Perkovic defrauded health benefit programs, including union plans, by falsely billing for hearing devices and services that were not provided, unnecessary, or based on fraudulent marketing practices. By defrauding the health plans, Djordjevic and Perkovic put illegal profits above the best interest of patients. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of labor unions and their benefit plans,” said Irene Lindow, Special Agent-in-Charge, Chicago Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
“Criminal acts like these directly impact participants in health benefit plans by compromising their benefit coverage and eroding funds needed to pay for necessary medical treatment. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration is committed to ensuring the integrity of employee benefit programs and stopping fraud against employee sponsored health benefit programs;” said Employee Benefits Security Administration Regional Director L. Joe Rivers, of the Cincinnati Regional Office.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys John Engstrom and Andrew Lievense. The case was investigated by special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.