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11 May 2020
U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
Seattle— In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran is recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“During these turbulent times, I hope we will all pause and reflect for a moment on the dedication and sacrifice of our law enforcement officers who risk danger every day – not just from bad actors, but now from an invisible virus,” said U.S. Attorney Moran. “In 2019, four Washington State law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty: Kittitas County Sheriff’s Deputy Ryan Shane Thompson; Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Deputy Justin Richard DeRosier; Lynden Police Chief Michael Knapp, and Pierce County Deputy Sheriff Cooper Andrew Dyson. We remember them and their families who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep the rest of us safe.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including the 4 (for consistency with the use of numerals “89”) officers here in Washington State.
Deputy Ryan Shane Thompson (Kittitas County) was killed in a shootout on March 19, 2019. Deputy Justin Richard DeRosier (Cowlitz County) was shot and killed April 14, 2019; Lynden Police Chief Michael Knapp was struck and killed by a car on November 16, 2019, while crossing the street heading to a City Council meeting. Deputy Cooper Andrew Dyson (Pierce County) was killed in a car accident December 21, 2019, while answering an emergency call.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8 p.m. (EDT). To register to view this free online event, please visit www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Each day, law enforcement personnel leave the protection of their homes, not knowing if they will return. They rush into danger to protect us and put their lives on the line daily without hesitation. Together we must stand and honor their service, pray for those wounded, and cherish the memories of our fallen officers. Their heroism will forever be remembered.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019. Five officers in the Middle District died in the line of duty in 2019 and 2020, while numerous others have been injured.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 7:00 pm (CST). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney Birge Joins Attorney General Barr in Recognizing National Police WeekRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week is observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
"There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer," said Attorney General William P. Barr. "The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted."
"This week is our chance to express our gratitude to law enforcement officers for their commitment to public service and willingness to put their lives on the line to keep us all safe every day of the week", said U.S. Attorney Birge. "I hope you join me in thanking these honorable individuals so they know how much we value and appreciate their essential role in these challenging times."
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019. Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 PM (EDT). To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray Honors Law Enforcement Officers and Pays Tribute to Fallen Heroes in Observance of National Police WeekRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – In observance of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray honors federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers for their courage and service, and pays tribute to the brave officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“During National Police Week we pay tribute to America’s federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement officers, and we thank them for their service. Every day, the courageous men and women in law enforcement place the safety and security of their communities above their own, and do so with bravery and honor. This week is also a time to remember the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice and lost their lives in the line of duty. To all the brave, fallen officers and their families, we offer our deepest gratitude and respect, and we salute your sacrifices and your legacy,” said Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019. Among those who made the ultimate sacrifice is Officer Harris Sheldon, of the Mooresville Police Department, who was killed on May 4, 2019, while conducting a traffic stop.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.s. Attorney’s Office Honors Law Enforcement During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS — In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“The men and women of law enforcement are heroes,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “They serve on the front lines of public safety, risking their lives on a daily basis to protect the innocent and safeguard our communities. They have our enduring gratitude.”
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.s. Attorney Mike Hurst Honors Law Enforcement During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst recognizes and honors the service and sacrifice of our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10, through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“I want to sincerely thank our men and women in law enforcement for their service to our citizens and our communities. Their devotion to duty, unwavering resolve, and sacrificial actions protect every single one of us and help keep our families safe. While we recognize them during this week every year, we should all be honoring and thanking them every single day for the job they do and the professional way in which they do it. Let’s take this week to recommit ourselves to do more in the future to honor and pay respect to these real-life heroes and their families,” said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including one officer, Biloxi Police officer Robert McKeithen, in the Southern District of Mississippi.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.s. Attorney Kurt Alme Recognizes Law Enforcement Officers During Police WeekRead the Press Release
BILLINGS— In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme encouraged everyone to join him in recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
"Every day in Montana, law enforcement officers put their own lives at risk to protect us and our way of life. Some sacrifice their bodies and some give up their lives. To all of you who carry a gun and a badge out on the street, protecting us while exposing yourselves to dangers like coronavirus and worse, know that you have our sincere thanks," U.S. Attorney Alme said.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including one officer here in Montana. Gallatin County Sheriff's Deputy Jake Allmendinger was killed in an accident as he was assisting a stranded motorist.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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U.s. Attorney Jason R. Dunn Honors Law Enforcement at Start of Police WeekRead the Press Release
DENVER – In honor of National Police Week, Colorado U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn is recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“This week, we honor and celebrate the brave men and women in uniform who keep our communities safe, and we remember those lost in the line of duty,” said U.S Attorney Jason Dunn. “With a heavy heart, Colorado will add three names to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial wall – Joshua Eli Voth a Sergeant for the Colorado Department of Corrections, William James Moden a Master Trooper for the Colorado State Patrol, and Daniel H. Groves a Corporal for the Colorado State Patrol. We will never forget their unwavering commitment to put the safety and security of their communities above their own. And we recognize that behind these brave officers – and every police officer – is a family who not only supports them but sacrifices with them. To the families, we thank you for sharing with us your husbands, your wives, your fathers and your mothers.”
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, butalso in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including three officers here in Colorado.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
Twelve Defendants Sentenced in Armed Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
DES MOINES, Iowa – On May 7, 2020, the twelfth defendant was sentenced in the federal prosecution of fourteen defendants charged with drug trafficking, firearms offenses, money laundering, and lying to a federal grand jury stemming from the investigation of a multi-state, armed drug trafficking and money laundering ring announced United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum.
The drug trafficking organization was led by Robert William Lampe and Mason Leroy Snyder, who operated their drug distribution business out of various residences in the Des Moines area. Lampe and Snyder obtained marijuana primarily from Tan Fong Vang, who resided in the Minneapolis area. Vang and his parents, Charley Vang and Sindy Xiong, utilized multiple residences in Minneapolis to store and distribute thousands of pounds of marijuana. Lampe, Snyder, and their co-conspirators traveled to Minnesota to acquire the marijuana and distributed it in the Des Moines area.
Lampe and Snyder also organized the acquisition of cocaine from various sources, including Kasey Lee Cassady and Peter Gerald Blaha, before selling the cocaine to customers in the Des Moines area. Alyssa Jean Karnowski, Brett Allan Corrigan Jr., Robert Joseph Lampe Jr., Austin Eugene Brommel, and David Joseph Daughenbaugh all assisted Lampe and Snyder with their operation, including purchasing and/or distributing marijuana and/or cocaine from and on behalf of Lampe and Snyder.
Lampe and Snyder used their drug proceeds to purchase various items, including vehicles and a residence located in Des Moines. The residence was purchased from Douglas Scott Bruns, who knowingly accepted $100,000 in drug proceeds for a down payment on the residence. Bruns’s son, Ian Michael Bruns, later provided false testimony to a federal grand jury regarding the circumstances surrounding that transaction. Both men were charged and pleaded guilty to offenses involving this conduct.
The investigation culminated in federal search warrants being executed at five locations in the Des Moines metro area on August 9, 2018. On November 20, 2018, an additional search warrant was executed at one of Vang’s residences in Minnesota. During the execution of that warrant, Vang and his parents were discovered with boxes containing approximately 294 pounds of marijuana, as well as a loaded handgun.
In total, the organization was responsible for the distribution of over 100 kilograms of marijuana and over 500 grams of cocaine in the Southern District of Iowa between April 2018 and January 2019. The organization also possessed multiple firearms throughout its operation. Over $140,000 in drug proceeds were seized as a result of the investigation, as well as multiple vehicles and two residences. All defendants charged pleaded guilty or were found guilty after proceeding to a jury trial, and twelve of the fourteen defendants have been sentenced by United States District Court Judge Rebecca Goodgame Ebinger.
• Tan Fong Vang, age 29, of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 170 months.
• Mason Leroy Snyder, age 20, of Waukee, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 120 months.
• Robert William Lampe, age 23, of Des Moines, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 73 months.
• Robert Joseph Lampe Jr., age 56, of Des Moines, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 70 months.
• Brett Allan Corrigan Jr., age 25, of Des Moines, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 60 months.
• Austin Eugene Brommel, age 22, of Pleasant Hill, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 60 months.
• Alyssa Jean Karnowski, age 21, of Des Moines, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 46 months.
• David Joseph Daughenbaugh, age 21, of Des Moines, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 37 months.
• Charley Vang, age 50, of Hayfork, California, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 30 months.
• Sindy Xiong, age 47, of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 21 months.
• Douglas Scott Bruns, age 51, of Ankeny, sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 15 months.
• Ian Michael Bruns, age 22, of Des Moines, sentenced to a four-year term of probation.
• Kasey Lee Cassady, age 22, of Adel, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 16, 2020.
• Peter Gerald Blaha, age 42, of Winterset, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 10, 2020.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Saint Paul Police Department. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.Roommates Charged in Federal Court with Trafficking Cocaine and Illegally Possessing Handguns in Downtown Oak Park ApartmentRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A federal grand jury has indicted two roommates for allegedly trafficking cocaine and illegally possessing handguns in their apartment in downtown Oak Park.
An indictment returned in U.S. District Court in Chicago charges ISAIAH INGRAM, 30, and KEVIN HAGER, 34, with drug conspiracy and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. The pair is also charged with illegally possessing firearms as previously convicted felons.
Law enforcement in February searched the defendants’ apartment in downtown Oak Park and discovered distribution quantities of cocaine and crack cocaine, as well as five semiautomatic handguns, all of which were loaded. The search also revealed a money-counting machine, electronic scales, and a cooking pot and utensils with white residue on them.
Ingram is detained in federal custody without bond. His arraignment is scheduled for May 12, 2020, at 9:30 a.m., before U.S. District Judge Robert M. Dow, Jr. Hager is currently at large, and a warrant for his arrest has been issued.
The indictment was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Emmerson Buie, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of the FBI; and David Brown, Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. The Oak Park Police Department provided valuable assistance. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth R. Pozolo and Tiffany Ardam.
Holding gun offenders accountable through federal prosecution is a centerpiece of Project Guardian and Project Safe Neighborhoods – the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction strategies. Project Guardian focuses specifically on investigating, prosecuting, and preventing gun crimes, and it emphasizes the importance of using modern technologies to promote gun crime intelligence. In the Northern District of Illinois, U.S. Attorney Lausch and law enforcement partners have deployed the Guardian and PSN programs to attack a broad range of violent crime issues facing the district, including by prosecuting individuals who illegally possess firearms.
The counts for drug conspiracy and possessing a firearm during a crime of violence are each punishable by up to life imprisonment, while illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon carries a maximum sentence of ten years. If convicted, the Court must impose reasonable sentences under federal statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Rogers Man Sentenced to 13 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 today that Tyler Dellinger, age 29, of Rogers, Arkansas, was sentenced to a total of 156 months in federal prison followed by 3 years of supervised release on one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and one count of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. The Honorable Judge Timothy L. Brooks presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Fayetteville.
According to court records, on October 30, 2019, Arkansas Probation and Parole Officers along with Special Agents and Task Force Officers with the DEA, made contact with Dellinger after being advised that Dellinger was attempting to distribute heroin in northwest Arkansas and that he had a warrant out for his arrest. When the officers made contact with Dellinger, he was in possession of approximately one quarter pound of heroin, a stolen firearm with ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and a small amount of methamphetamine. Dellinger advised officers that he traveled out of state two or three times a week in order to obtain the heroin and that he purchased the firearm recently for protection.
Dellinger was indicted by a federal grand jury in November of 2019, and entered a guilty plea in February of 2020.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Arkansas State Probation and Parole. Assistant United States Attorney Kim Harris prosecuted the case for the Western District of Arkansas.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced as Part of Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 12 months’ imprisonment, plus three years of supervised release, on his conviction of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today. Mr. Harley is the second of 36 defendants to be sentenced in connection with this large-scale drug trafficking case, investigated by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force.
United States District Judge William S. Stickman, IV imposed sentence on Kyleif Harley, 28.
According to information presented to the Court, in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and drug-trafficking activity in and around the South Side area of Pittsburgh. As part of this large-scale narcotics and firearms investigation, in February of 2019, the United States received authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through June of 2019.
Intercepted communications demonstrated that Harley possessed and distributed heroin and fentanyl, and communicated directly with his co-defendant, Christopher Highsmith, who was among the leaders of the drug trafficking conspiracy, in order to develop his drug trafficking business. The court was further informed that during a traffic stop of Harley near Philadelphia on August 1, 2018, law enforcement officials seized 261 stamps bags of heroin, over 60 pills that tested positive for various forms of fentanyl, and items related to narcotics distribution that were purchased in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Harley later pleaded guilty to state charges that stemmed from the traffic stop. Harley has been detained in federal custody on his federal charge since July 25, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Adult Probation, Allegheny County Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Other assisting agencies include the Green Tree Police Department, New York City Police Department, Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Pike County Man Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison for Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama – On Friday, May 8, 2020, Calvin Lee Morris, a 34-year-old man from Banks, Alabama, was sentenced to 40 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Louis V. Franklin, Sr. Following his prison sentence, Morris will be on supervised release for three years. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on February 2, 2018, Morris was standing in the parking lot of Walter’s Grocery in Bullock County, Alabama and fired several shots at a man in a vehicle as he was driving away from the store. Although multiple rounds were found in the man’s car, including one in the headrest, he was not injured in the shooting. Surveillance camera footage recovered from the store confirmed that Morris was the gunman. Morris was arrested on February 21, 2018 in Banks, Alabama with assistance from the Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force. During the arrest, officers discovered Morris was in possession of a loaded 9mm pistol, which was found to be the same pistol used to shoot at the man’s car at Walter’s Grocery. During the sentencing hearing, it was revealed that Morris has an extensive criminal history and has had a number of previous encounters with law enforcement that indicate violent tendencies.
Morris was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2019 on one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He pleaded guilty to that charge on December 18, 2019. Additional state charges related to the shooting are pending.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office, the Bullock County Sheriff’s Office, the Eufaula Police Department, the Pike County Sheriff’s Office, the Troy Police Department, and the United States Marshals Service (USMS) investigated this case, with assistance from the District Attorney’s Office for the 3rd Judicial Circuit. Assistant United States Attorney Verne Speirs prosecuted the case.
Pennsylvania State University to Pay $151,000 to Resolve Potential False Claims LiabilityRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG, PA - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Pennsylvania State University has agreed to pay the United States $151,000 to resolve potential liability under the False Claims Act.
According to U.S. Attorney David J. Freed, the investigation arose from alleged mischarges to various grants and contracts from the National Science Foundation, the Department of the Navy, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Air Force. The grants and contracts were awarded to Penn State in 2012-2017 and the isolated alleged mischarges identified occurred in 2013-2016.
“We are fortunate in the Middle District of Pennsylvania to be the home of a major research university,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “Part of the important work that takes place at such institutions involves appropriate management of federal grants and contracts. When mischarges occur, investigative arms of federal grant-making entities have a responsibility to act to on behalf of the taxpayers. In this matter, a cooperative investigation among all parties has resulted in a fair settlement and appropriate policy changes to prevent a reoccurrence of such mischarges.”
"The integrity of the DoD grant and contracting process is a top priority for the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS)," stated Special Agent in Charge Leigh-Alistair Barzey, DCIS Northeast Field Office. "The settlement agreement announced today is the result of a joint investigative effort and demonstrates the DCIS' commitment to work with the USAO-MDPA and its law enforcement partners to ensure that claims submitted to the U.S. Department of Defense by academic institutions are reasonable, allocable, allowable and supported by adequate documentation."
"Those who do business with the federal government must ensure they charge the US taxpayer appropriately. The Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI), along with its law enforcement partners, has, and always will, aggressively investigate and seek justice to protect the USAF procurement process and ensure the trust of the American taxpayer," stated Special Agent-in-Charge Jason T. Hein, OSI, Office of Procurement Fraud for the Air Force.
Pennsylvania State University cooperated with the investigation and has implemented policy changes to prevent mischarges in the future. The settlement agreement is not an admission of liability by Penn State.
This matter was investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the NSF Office of Inspector General, the NASA Office of Inspector General, the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. The investigation was handled by Assistant United States Attorney, Tamara J. Haken and the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) Unit within the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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Pelham Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Michael Baez, 39, of Pelham, pleaded guilty in federal court to distributing cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2019, Baez sold cocaine to a cooperating individual on multiple occasions. One transaction took place in a parking lot in Nashua. Additional deals occurred at the defendant’s residence in Pelham, New Hampshire. In total, Baez sold over 420 grams of cocaine to the cooperating individual.
Baez is scheduled to be sentenced on August 19, 2020.
“Drug trafficking threatens the health and safety of residents of Pelham, Nashua and other communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Cocaine traffickers should understand that this illegal conduct will lead to federal prosecution. Federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies will continue to work closely together to identify and prosecute those who are responsible for selling drugs in the Granite State.”
“Time after time, Michael Baez pushed thousands of dollars’ worth of cocaine from his home, where he once left the dangerous narcotic out on his grill, on his back deck, ready for pickup,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “By pleading guilty today to drug distribution, Baez is finally accepting responsibility for being part of a problem that has exacted a terrible toll on our communities. This case is a great example of the resolve of the FBI New Hampshire’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force to rid our streets of those who are intent on flooding them with illicit drugs.”
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police, Nashua Police Department, Manchester Police Department, Dover Police Department, and Portsmouth Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski.
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Op Ed: U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Pens Op Ed to Recognize Law Enforcement During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
On April 10, 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as "Peace Officers Memorial Day" and the week in which it falls as "Police Week," recognizing the essential role our law enforcement agencies play in safeguarding the rights and freedoms guaranteed to every American citizen by the Constitution.
Each day, the members of our law enforcement agencies fulfill their duty to serve the people by, in the words of President Kennedy, "safeguarding life and property, by protecting them against violence and disorder, and by protecting the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression and intimidation."
Each year, communities across the United States come together during National Police Week to commemorate police officers, past and present, who, by their faithful service and loyal devotion to duty, protect our communities.
We especially pay tribute to and remember those law enforcement officers who have suffered debilitating injuries in the line of duty or who have made the ultimate sacrifice and the family members, friends, and fellow officers they have left behind.
During the week of May 10-16, a number of virtual activities are taking place across the nation. Please visit our twitter page for more information at: https://twitter.com/USAO_EDTN, #PoliceWeek2020, or #PoliceWeek.
The 32nd Annual Candlelight Vigil will be held on May 13th across the nation. This year the names of 307 officers killed in the line of duty and will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC. https://nleomf.org/virtual-candle and #UnitedByLight.
Over 800,000 law enforcement officers serve communities across the United States, including the dedicated members of law enforcement who protect and serve the citizens of east Tennessee.
A top priority of the United States Department of Justice is to support all of our law enforcement partners throughout the country. Attorney General Barr has emphasized to U.S. Attorneys our commitment to support law enforcement in the performance of their duties and affirm the critical role of police officers in our society.
All federal, state, and local law enforcement partners play a vital role in ensuring that there is justice for victims. State and local officers comprise eighty-five percent of all law enforcement. They are the backbone of our law enforcement efforts. In the Eastern District of Tennessee, we value and respect the job they do.
Since the first recorded death in 1791, more than 21,000 law enforcement officers in the United States have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Statistics from the National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund from January 1 through May 6, 2020, indicate 84 officers have been killed in the line of duty across the nation this year already, 18 of which were firearms-related.
In November 2019, the Department of Justice announced a new initiative, Project Guardian, designed to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearm laws across the country. This new initiative involves a combined-agency approach on gun crimes, emphasizing improved information-sharing and coordination in the prosecution of federal and state firearms laws and reviewing cases involving gun crimes to determine whether federal or state prosecution would be more appropriate. Currently, 251 cases have been brought forward to U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide for prosecution.
As U.S. Attorney, I am committed to this program, and our office backs our law enforcement partners every step of the way. None of us can combat violent crime on his own. Working together, however, we can have a meaningful impact.
During this week dedicated to remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, I would like to say THANK YOU to all members of local, state, and federal law enforcement for their dedication and the sacrifices they make each day to make our community, state, and nation safe.
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Ohio’s top federal and state law enforcement officials commemorate Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, Ohio’s top federal and state law enforcement officials are asking the public to set aside some time this week to recognize or thank a law enforcement officer for their service. National Police Week is observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
Click here to view the video clip of Governor Mike DeWine, U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman, U.S. Attorney David DeVillers and Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“Police Week is a time to honor and remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, but it is also a time to express appreciation to those who put their lives on the line for our community’s peace and security,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This week, I’m asking everyone in Northern Ohio to take some time to thank a law enforcement officer and to express your gratitude for their service to our community.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019. Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day Honor the Service and Sacrifice of Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland — National Police Week recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. This year, the week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“I am honored to work with the exceptional men and women of Maryland law enforcement. The courage and faithfulness with which you serve is inspirational, and as U.S. Attorney, I am proud to be part of such a dedicated profession that risks all in service to others,” said U.S. Attorney Robert K. Hur. “During this week of national recognition, I want to reaffirm my strong support for law enforcement and to ensuring that they have the equipment, training, and resources necessary to protect the health and safety of officers while they are protecting the public. Today, and every day, it is appropriate that we thank and honor the members of law enforcement for their dedication and professionalism. We will never forget their service.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including Kyle David Olinger of the Montgomery County Police Department here in Maryland.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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Nation Pays Tribute to Service and Sacrifice of Law Enforcement OfficersRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Tim Garrison will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and tribal law enforcement. The week is being observed this year from Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“Although we are grateful we did not witness any line-of-duty deaths of law enforcement officers in the Western District of Missouri in 2019,” Garrison said, “we are observing National Police Week in the shadow of the recent death of Springfield, Missouri, police officer Chris Walsh, who will be honored in Washington, D.C., at the national law enforcement memorial in 2021. We honor the memory of all of our nation’s law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect and serve their communities.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 PM (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
Mexican National Sentenced in Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Senior United States District Judge Laurie Smith Camp sentenced Rodolfo Genchi-Villal today to a term of imprisonment of 46 months. Genchi-Villal will serve a 5-year term of supervised release following his release from the Bureau of Prisons. There is no parole in the federal system. Genchi-Villal will be deported from the United States to Mexico after serving his prison term.
Genchi-Villal, 36, was convicted of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine with Juan Aguilar-Pacheco and Luis Angel Lorenzo-Gallardo in the Omaha area between May 2, 2019, and August 6, 2019. Genchi-Villal was arrested while he delivered approximately one pound of methamphetamine to a customer waiting in a parking lot.
On March 2, 2020, co-defendant Juan Aguilar-Pacheco was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 57 months and a 5-year term of supervised release. Aguilar-Pacheco will also be deported from the United States to Mexico after his prison term. The remaining defendant in the case, Luis Angel Lorenzo-Gallardo, is scheduled to be sentenced on June 1, 2020.
The case was primarily investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force.
Louisville Native Returns Home to Join U.S. Attorney's Office's Fight Against Violent Crime & Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – United States Attorney Russell Coleman is today announcing his appointment of Frank Dahl as a federal prosecutor in the Louisville, Kentucky-based U.S. Attorney’s Office which serves the 53 counties and nearly 2.5 million people of the Western District of Kentucky.
“As we begin Police Week, I can think of few more tangible ways to honor our law enforcement partners than to add a respected and experienced prosecutor of Frank Dahl’s caliber to our fight against violent crime and drug trafficking here in Louisville and across the Commonwealth,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “Frank is well-respected by law men and women from his many years with one of our most important partners, the Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. His service as ‘a fed’ here will only enhance our relationship with that premier office.”
“As much as I was sorry to see Frank leave our office in 2018, I am just as happy to see that he has returned to Kentucky,” said Jefferson Commonwealth’s Attorney Tom Wine. “He has a keen mind and a great grasp of the law which will benefit the US Attorney’s Office as well as ours. I look forward to Frank working with our prosecutors as we continue to collaborate with the US Attorney's Office for the [Western District] of Kentucky.”
Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Dahl is a Louisville native and a graduate of the University of Louisville and UofL’s Brandeis School of Law. While in law school, he worked as a law clerk for the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and subsequently served as an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney in the office after his graduation. During his 12-year tenure as a state prosecutor in Louisville, Dahl rose quickly through the ranks and became the narcotics section chief. He tried numerous cases involving violent crime, drug trafficking, homicide, and firearms offenses.
In 2018, Dahl began work as an AUSA in Evansville Indiana, working for the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. During his time with that office, he earned a reputation as a prolific case developer and handled a variety of cases involving drug trafficking organizations, violent crime, firearms offenses, and drug overdoses. During his time in Evansville, Dahl worked with both federal and state law enforcement agencies located in Kentucky in support of his work in Indiana.
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Local strip mall property settles ADA allegationsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – The owners of a property known as A-S 76 on Highway 290 have settled allegations under Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to remove barriers and greatly improve physical accessibility, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
The United States initiated an investigation into A-S 76 Hwy 290 Bingle L.P. as part of a compliance review of strip shopping centers after receiving a complaint regarding a similar property. The investigation revealed that physical barriers existed at various locations in the parking lot and access points of the shopping center.
The settlement agreement requires the property owner to remedy all access barriers within six months.
Under the ADA, persons with disabilities shall be afforded the opportunity to participate in or benefit from the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages or accommodations equal to that afforded to other individuals. Title III mandates that no individual shall be discriminated against on the basis of a disability by any person who owns, leases or operates a place of public accommodation.
The Bingle Property is a place of public accommodation. As such, the owner is subject to Title III requirements.
The United States Attorney is authorized to commence a civil action, when he believes discrimination exists, seeking full compliance with the ADA, including requiring the owners and operators of places of public accommodations to remedy the violations.
The owner denies the allegations that it violated the ADA, but agreed to remedy all the alleged violations the United States has identified.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Keith Edward Wyatt and Annalisa Cravens handled this investigation with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Raymond Babauta.
Lawrenceburg Man Sentenced to 30 Months for Wire and Tax FraudRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. — A Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, man, Joe G. Peavler, 53, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on Monday, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, after previously admitting to committing wire fraud and assisting in the preparation of a false income tax return.
In his plea agreement, Peavler admitted that, between 2004 and 2018, he managed a warehouse owned by someone else and, during that time, he devised a plan to rent space in the warehouse to two separate entities, keeping the money for himself without knowledge or authority by the owners. Peavler’s fraud scheme was furthered by interstate wire communications. Peavler also admitted to failing to declare this rent money on his tax returns, for each of the years he received the rent.
Peavler pleaded guilty in January 2020.
Under federal law, Peavler must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years, following his release. As part of his sentence, Peavler was also ordered to pay an excess of $1.5 million in restitution.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge for the Louisville Division of FBI; and Bryant Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and IRS. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Roth and Ken Taylor.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s efforts to identify and prosecute those persons who facilitate elder financial exploitation.
The Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Mission, being carried out through the Kentucky Elder Justice Task Force, is to seek justice for victims of elder financial exploitation. Anyone who knows someone who may be a victim of an elder financial exploitation, is encouraged to contact law enforcement.
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Kalamazoo Urogynecologist and Nurse Practioner Face Charges Related to Health Care Fraud and Adulteration of Medical DevicesRead the Press Release
Potential Victims Can Contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office Directly
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney Andrew B. Birge announced today separate charges brought against Roger D. Beyer, M.D., and his wife, Susan E. Wright, N.P., J.D. Dr. Beyer was the owner of Women’s Health Care Specialists, P.C. ("WHCS"), an obstetrics-gynecology practice in Kalamazoo, and Urological Solutions of Michigan, PLC ("USM"), a medical practice consisting of traveling nurse practitioners in West Michigan.
The Felony Information filed against Dr. Beyer charges him with conspiracy to commit health care fraud. The United States alleges that Dr. Beyer conspired to fraudulently bill Medicare for therapy services, known as pelvic muscle rehabilitation ("PMR") therapy, provided by USM, using more-lucrative and inappropriate diagnostic codes. The PMR therapy was provided purportedly to treat mostly elderly female patients with fecal or urinary incontinence, primarily in the greater Traverse City, Kalamazoo, and Grand Rapids areas.
The United States also alleges in the Felony Information that Dr. Beyer directed his staff at USM and WHCS to reuse a single-user (one patient only) rectal pressure sensor on multiple patients as part of the PMR therapy. Additionally, the United States alleges that WHCS staff also reused a single-use (disposable, one use only) anorectal manometry catheter on multiple patients as part of an initial diagnostic study with patients with potential fecal incontinence. Both instances of reuse were inconsistent with the device clearance by the Food & Drug Administration ("FDA") and the devices’ instructions for use. Further, this reuse resulted in the adulteration and possible contamination of these devices.
In a separate Felony Information, the United States charges Ms. Wright with misprision of health care fraud and the adulteration of a medical device. The United States alleges that Ms. Wright knew that USM fraudulently billed Medicare for evaluation and management ("E&M") services to patients on the same date of service as the PMR therapy, but she never informed authorities. The Felony Information against Ms. Wright similarly charges her with adulteration of a medical device, specifically the rectal pressure sensor in the manner described above for Dr. Beyer.
Both Dr. Beyer and Ms. Wright have signed plea agreements in their respective cases, and plea hearings are scheduled for May 15, 2020.
USM patients who were also Medicare beneficiaries may have been charged copays for the billing of their PMR therapy using the more lucrative diagnostic codes. Those same patients may also have been improperly charged copays for E&M services billed alongside their PMR therapy. Additionally, patients of USM and WHCS who received PMR therapy or diagnostic anorectal manometry may have been the recipients of services using adulterated medical devices. This adulteration posed a risk of infectious disease transmission. Such patients can review the press release issued by the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services on June 11, 2019, encouraging patients of Dr. Beyer and his practices to consult with their treating physicians about undergoing any testing:
https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339--499502--,00.html
Individuals who may have been affected by the fraudulent billing or device adulteration can contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan to obtain information about victim rights and the progression of these cases. The U.S. Attorney’s Office website includes a page with forms and information related to this case specifically for victims:
https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdmi/victim-and-witness-assistance-program/vw-large-cases/Beyer_Wright
Alternatively, potential victims may call Kathy Schuette, Victim Witness Coordinator, at (616) 808-2034.
Charges in an information are only allegations and are not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty, and the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Justice Department Releases $61 Million in Awards to Support Efforts to Combat Violent Crime in Seven U.S. CitiesRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department announced that the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) and the Office of Justice Programs’ Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) have awarded more than $61 million in grant funding to support the Attorney General’s Operation Relentless Pursuit (ORP) initiative.
Launched on Dec. 18, 2019, ORP aims to intensify federal law enforcement resources into seven American cities with violent crime levels several times the national average – Albuquerque, Baltimore, Cleveland, Detroit, Kansas City, Memphis, and Milwaukee.
“While violent crime is down across the country as a whole, some communities remain caught in the grips of violent actors,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “That’s why I launched Operation Relentless Pursuit last December – an initiative to combat violent crime in seven cities where it remains stubbornly high. Today’s grant awards are critical to our mission. We cannot succeed in eradicating crime without resources – the most vital of which are the brave men and women who serve and protect our communities each day. These funds will boost the forces that need them most.”
“Successful strategies to target and reduce violent crime are extremely resource intensive,” said COPS Office Director Phil Keith. “There is no greater resource than additional men and women on the front lines of the relentless fight against gangs, drug traffickers and those that mean harm to our nation’s communities. The funding announced today is greatly needed for the Operation Relentless Pursuit jurisdictions and the COPS Office is honored to dedicate resources for this effort.”
“The responsibility for fighting crime and violence belongs to agencies at every level of government, and winning that fight turns on our ability to deploy our collective resources wisely and effectively,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are eager to make these funds available so that our federal, state and local partners can continue the vital and noble work of protecting America’s most dangerous communities.”
The COPS Office, through its COPS Hiring Program (CHP), awarded a total of $51 million to be used to hire 214 sworn law enforcement officers for state and local law enforcement task forces. The recipients of the funding will deploy existing veteran officers to task force duties and use the CHP funding to hire new recruits to backfill those positions, as practical. Officers deployed to Operation Relentless Pursuit task forces as a result of CHP funding must be sworn, career law enforcement officers of the awarded agency, and their work on the task force must benefit their jurisdiction. In addition, they are required to work with their respective U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) and relevant federal agencies to investigate and prosecute suspects involved in gangs, drug trafficking, and other violent crime – related issues.
For a breakdown of the awards, please click here. For more information on the COPS Hiring Program ORP grants, please visit: https://cops.usdoj.gov/pdf/2020AwardDocs/chp/FY20_Relentless_Pursuit_Fact_Sheet.pdf
The Bureau of Justice Assistance is making $10 million available to support Operation Relentless Pursuit. BJA funds will support efforts such as the hiring of additional prosecutors, overtime expenses for task force members, multi-agency investigations, mobile data terminals and modern technological platforms, and development of strategic plans to address gaps in combating violent crime.
Justice Department Files Statement of Interest Regarding Section 201 of the Voting Rights ActRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today filed a Statement of Interest in a South Carolina federal court to promote the proper and uniform interpretation of the Voting Rights Act. The Statement of Interest is part of the Department of Justice’s continuing efforts around the country to enforce our nation’s federal voting rights laws.
The lawsuit in question, brought by private plaintiffs, involves constitutional and statutory challenges to South Carolina’s witness requirement for absentee ballots. Although private plaintiffs’ constitutional claims relate to the COVID-19 pandemic, plaintiffs have also asked the court to enjoin South Carolina’s witness requirement permanently as a violation of Section 201 of the Voting Rights Act.
The Statement of Interest explains that Section 201 prohibits denial of the right to vote to citizens who fail to prove their qualifications by the voucher of registered voters or members of any other class. However, South Carolina’s absentee witness requirement does not violate Section 201 because it neither requires witnesses to vouch for a voter’s qualifications nor limits the set of acceptable witnesses to registered voters or any other relevant class. The Statement of Interest also explains that a claim under Section 201 must be heard by a three-judge federal district court. The Statement of Interest does not take a position on any of the private plaintiffs’ other claims.
“The Voting Rights Act outlaws certain practices that deprive Americans of the right to vote because of race and other protected traits. The Voting Rights Act does not outlaw all voting-related requirements enacted by the States,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “Congress has entrusted the U.S. Department of Justice with enforcement of the Voting Rights Act and the other federal voting rights laws. These laws protect the right of Americans to vote for their preferred candidates. We will continue to enforce them fairly, including by explaining to courts the legal framework that governs challenges to the voting laws enacted by the States.”
“This office will always ensure that the people of South Carolina have their voices heard in the voting booth,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina, Peter M. McCoy, Jr. “This filing indicates that we take that duty seriously, and we will continue to do so.”
Section 201 of the Voting Rights Act is a permanent, nationwide prohibition on the use of tests and devices in our elections. These unlawful procedures include literacy tests, educational achievement or knowledge tests, good moral character requirements, and voucher requirements.
More information about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting rights laws is available on the Department of Justice website at https://www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section. Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws may be reported to the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division at 1-800-253-3931.
Justice Department Awards More Than $8 Million to Address COVID-19 Pandemic in MinnesotaRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced that the state of Minnesota received more than $8 million in Department of Justice grants to respond to the public safety challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.
The grant, awarded to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, is available under the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation. In addition to these funds, more than $3.6 million in funds have been allocated to local jurisdictions within the District of Minnesota. Those jurisdictions can find out if they are eligible and apply by visiting the Bureau of Justice Assistance website at https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553. The Justice Department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.
“These funds will provide additional resources for our dedicated public safety officials as they continue to selflessly serve the public during this pandemic,” said United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald. “Additionally, these funds are designed to be flexible to support a wide range of initiatives and projects, including purchasing protective gear and supplies, to help keep our front line officers safe.”
“The outbreak of COVID-19 and the public health emergency it created are sobering reminders that even the most routine duties performed by our nation’s public safety officials carry potentially grave risks,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “These funds will provide hard-hit communities with critical resources to help mitigate the impact of this crisis and give added protection to the brave professionals charged with keeping citizens safe.”
The law gives jurisdictions considerable latitude in the use of these funds for dealing with COVID-19. Potential uses include hiring personnel, paying overtime, purchasing protective equipment and distributing resources to hard-hit areas. Funds may also be used to help correctional facilities cover costs related to COVID-19, including, but not limited to, sanitation, contagion prevention and measures designed to address the related medical needs of inmates, detainees and correctional personnel.
Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for the emergency funding. Local units of government and tribes will receive direct awards separately according to their jurisdictions’ allocations. For a list of all awards thus far, visit the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program webpage.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
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United States Attorney’s Office, District of Minnesota: (612) 664-5600
Jefferson County man sentenced for role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jansen V. Carr, of Ranson, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years probation for selling cocaine, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Carr, age 35, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base” in October 2019. Carr admitted to selling cocaine base for $250 in August 2018 in Berkeley County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and Assistant U.S Attorney Timothy D. Helman prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the Martinsburg Police Department, the Charles Town Police Department, and the Ranson Police Department investigated.
This prosecution was brought as a part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Co-located Strike Forces Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations against a continuum of priority targets and their affiliate illicit financial networks. These prosecutor-led co-located Strike Forces capitalize on the synergy created through the long-term relationships that can be forged by agents, analysts, and prosecutors who remain together over time, and they epitomize the model that has proven most effective in combating organized crime.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Jackson Woman Sentenced to 10 Months for Soliciting Kickbacks and Obstructing JusticeRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Jackson, Ky., woman, Theresa C. Merced, 81, was sentenced to five months imprisonment to be followed by five months of home detention, and was ordered to pay a $55,000 fine, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, following her convictions for soliciting kickbacks from a toxicology laboratory in exchange for urine drug testing referrals, lying to law enforcement agents about the kickback she received, and then attempting to cover up the kickback by requesting the alteration of certain financial records.
Merced, the office manager of a substance abuse treatment clinic in Jackson previously admitted that, between December 2018 and August 2019, she solicited kickbacks from the CEO of a toxicology lab in exchange for urine drug test referrals. In August 2019 the CEO delivered to Merced a $4,000 check as part of a larger package of promised inducements, which she caused to be cashed. When Merced was questioned about the check by law enforcement agents in September 2019, she denied knowledge of it, and stated that the $4,000 was probably a loan from the lab CEO to her husband. Shortly after her interview with the agents concluded, Merced called the lab CEO and asked that he alter the lab’s financial records so that the entry for the $4,000 check would say “rent/loan,” consistent with the lie she told the agents.
Under federal law, Merced must serve 85 percent of her prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years. As a special condition of her supervised release, Merced is prohibited from working in any capacity in which she influences referrals for medical testing.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Atlanta Field Office, and Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Kentucky Office of Attorney General, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul McCaffrey.
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Horizon City Man Faces Federal Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
In El Paso today, federal authorities filed a criminal complaint against 29–year-old Alex R. Barron for federal firearms charges, including a charge of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition and a charge involving the prohibited possession of a machine gun, announced U.S. Attorney John F. Bash and FBI Special Agent in Charge Luis M. Quesada, El Paso Division.
On May 8, 2020, federal authorities executed a series of search warrants, including a search warrant for the defendant’s residence, in connection with an investigation into the alleged posting on a social media application of a photograph of an AR-15 style rifle with a caption stating “…#watchoutwalmartimcoming #droplikeflys…” After recovering multiple firearms, including at least one fully automatic firearm equipped with a suppressor, and ammunition, authorities arrested Barron.
Barron’s criminal history reveals a 2012 felony conviction for a drug-related offense in El Paso County.
Upon conviction, Barron faces up to ten years in federal prison for each of the firearms charges. He remains in custody at this time.
The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, El Paso Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety are investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ian Hanna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
A criminal complaint is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
High Point Man Sentenced to 11.5 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm Offenses and Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
GREENSBORO, NC - On Monday, May 11, 2020, a judge in federal district court sentenced a High Point resident, JABRELL CRAIG SMITH, to a 138-month prison term, announced United States Attorney Matthew G.T. Martin of the Middle District of North Carolina.
Following a three day trial in Greensboro in January 2020, the jury found SMITH, age 27, guilty on all four charges in the Indictment, including possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, knowingly possessing a firearm after previously being convicted of a felony offense, and knowingly possessing a unregistered firearm.
Evidence presented at trial showed that on May 29, 2017, at approximately 2:00 a.m., officers from the Greensboro Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit followed and approached a black Chevrolet Malibu in the parking lot of a gas station located at 3302 South Holden Road in Greensboro. Police found an Intratec Tec-9 9mm Luger firearm sticking out from under the front passenger seat where SMITH had been seated. When officers recovered the weapon, they noticed that a red dot sighting system situated on top of the weapon was turned on and that a round of live ammunition had been chambered, making the Tec-9 ready to fire. The magazine contained twenty-six additional rounds of live ammunition. In the door pocket of the front passenger seat, officers recovered a plastic baggie containing 3.32 grams of heroin. At trial, the government presented text messages, videos, and photographs to establish that SMITH possessed the heroin for the purpose of distribution and that he was previously familiar with, and had access to, the Tec-9. The Tec-9 had a modification, a forward grip attached to the frame of the weapon, which made it subject to additional regulation and registration in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
At sentencing, the United States District Court imposed an aggregate 138-month prison term on all of the charges and a 4-year period of federal supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Greensboro Police Department, the High Point Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John M. Alsup.
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Hardy County man sentenced for methamphetamine distributionRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Larry Allen Lyons, of Moorefield, West Virginia, was sentenced today to five years’ probation, with the first three months incarceration, for methamphetamine distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Lyons, age 55, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine” in January 2020. Lyons admitted to working with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine from March 2018 to May 2018 in Mineral, Grant, and Randolph Counties.Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Potomac Highlands Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; and the Ravenswood Police Department investigated.
This prosecution was brought as a part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Co-located Strike Forces Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations against a continuum of priority targets and their affiliate illicit financial networks. These prosecutor-led co-located Strike Forces capitalize on the synergy created through the long-term relationships that can be forged by agents, analysts, and prosecutors who remain together over time, and they epitomize the model that has proven most effective in combating organized crime.
Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.
Gresham Man Charged with Smuggling and Importing Misbranded Chloroquine from China for Attempted ResaleRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams announced today that a Gresham, Oregon man has been charged with illegally purchasing, importing, and offering for sale chloroquine, the active pharmaceutical ingredient in prescription drugs used to treat malaria.
Matthew Owens, 42, has been charged by criminal complaint with smuggling and the receipt in interstate commerce of misbranded drugs and the delivery thereof for pay.
“Together, Americans are facing a public health emergency without precedent in our lifetimes. We are heartened by the countless examples of public service by front-line health workers, law enforcement, and ordinary Americans alike. These heroic acts of service inspire us all,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “And yet, there are some individuals actively trying to profit off the pandemic, and, in the process, putting more lives as risk. We will not let these selfish and dangerous criminal acts continue unchecked.”
“Drugs that are produced and distributed outside the FDA’s oversight present the prospect of harm to the public health. The FDA’s drug approval process is designed to ensure that patients receive safe and effective drugs,” said Special Agent in Charge Lisa L. Malinowski, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations (FDA-OCI) Los Angeles Field Office. “The FDA will not tolerate those who attempt to place the public health at risk, especially during a pandemic and we will take appropriate action to protect consumers from bad actors who take advantage of a crisis to deceive the public.”
“It’s unconscionable that individuals would prioritize their own greed over the health of others, particularly during a public health crisis,” said Eben Roberts, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Seattle. “Illicit distribution of narcotics put unsuspecting consumers at serious risk. HSI, and our law enforcement partners, will continue to seek and bring to justice anyone who attempts to use the current health emergency to exploit others.”
According to court documents, on April 13, 2020, HSI contacted FDA-OCI after a package containing 122.8 grams of a white powder was intercepted at a FedEx facility in Memphis, Tennessee. The package originated in Xiaoshan, China, and was addressed to Owens’ Gresham apartment. The enclosed substance was declared as ammonium polyphosphate but was later determined to be chloroquine. An invoice included with the substance described it as a “sample” having “no commercial value”, statements commonly used by persons improperly importing items and attempting to avoid detection.
Investigators searched FDA records and found neither “Hangzhou Weishi Electronic Commerce Co Ltd,” the entity who shipped the package, nor “Matthew Owens” as having registered any drug manufacturing facilities. A search of Oregon Medical Board, Oregon Board of Pharmacy, and Oregon State Board of Nursing public databases found no records indicating that Owens was a physician, pharmacist, or registered nurse.
As the investigation continued, special agents from FDA-OCI and HSI learned that two additional shipments were sent from China to Owens’ apartment. One contained resveratrol, a chemical commonly found in dietary supplements. The second contained polyacrylamide, a chemical compound primarily used in wastewater treatment, but also as an ingredient in certain cosmetics.
On April 27, 2020, agents from HSI, FDA-OCI, FBI, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) executed a search at Owens’ apartment. They seized laptop computers, cell phones, an unopened bag of clear, empty capsules for encapsulating pharmaceuticals, a foil bag containing an unknown powder, and a material safety data sheet for polyacrylamide.
A forensic search of Owens’ cell phones and Facebook Messenger messages associated with his cell phone number revealed conversations discussing the purchase and receipt of chloroquine from Alibaba.com, the world’s largest online business-to-business trading platform. Other messages discussed the offering of chloroquine for sale as a treatment for COVID-19.
Owens made his first appearance in federal court today after having been served a summons to appear on May 8, 2020. If convicted, Owens faces a maximum sentence of 23 years in federal prison, 3 years’ supervised release, and a $500,000 fine.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the FDA-OCI and HSI with assistance from the FBI and U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS). It is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
On March 27, 2020, the FDA issued a public notice warning of the dangers of using chloroquine phosphate and warning the public to be wary of anyone claiming to have a product to prevent or cure COVID-19. The U.S. Attorney’s Office joins the FDA in imploring the public not to take any form of chloroquine unless it has been prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider and is obtained through a legitimate source.
If you or someone you know is in danger or experiencing a health emergency, please call 911.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Gilmer County woman sentenced for role in a methamphetamine distribution operationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kisha Starr Riggs, of Glenville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 12 months incarceration for her involvement in a methamphetamine distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Riggs, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Methamphetamine in Proximity to a Protected Location” in October 2019. Riggs admitted to selling methamphetamine near Glenville State College in September 2018 in Gilmer County.Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Flower is prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mountain Lakes Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force investigated.
Senior U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided.
Former Rancho Cordova Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Bank FraudRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Monica Nunes, 40, of formerly of Rancho Cordova, pleaded guilty Thursday to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, Nunes and her co-defendants, Johnathon Ward and Talalima Toilolo, conspired to defraud financial institutions using a scheme called “refund fraud” or “force post refund fraud.” This scheme exploited the merchant refund process used by businesses and retail establishments to pay back customers for returns, reimbursements, and erroneous charges. The defendants posed as merchants and executed fraudulent debit or credit card refunds, which caused the unauthorized transfer of money from a merchant bank account to an account under the defendants’ control.
The defendants committed this scheme by stealing or purchasing point-of-sale (POS) terminals that were used by businesses to process bankcard transactions. The defendants programmed each terminal to make it appear as if it was authorized by a particular merchant, connected the terminals to payment processing intermediaries, and executed refund transactions even though no purchases had been made. The payment processors, falsely believing the terminals were authorized, approved the refunds and caused the merchants’ banks to transfer funds to the defendants’ accounts. The defendants then drained the stolen funds from the accounts. The indictment alleges that this scheme caused at least $3.5 million in intended losses.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Regional Enforcement Allied Computer Team (REACT) Task Force, which includes investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Artuz is prosecuting the case.
Charges are pending against Ward and Toilolo. The charges are only allegations; they are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Nunes is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Morrison C. England Jr. on Aug. 6. Nunes faces a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
Former Emory University professor and Chinese “Thousand Talents” participant convicted and sentenced for filing a false tax returnRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – Xiao-Jiang Li has pleaded guilty to a criminal information charging him with filing a false tax return and was sentenced by a U.S. District Judge on the same day. Dr. Li, a former Emory University professor and Chinese Thousand Talents Program participant, worked overseas at Chinese Universities and did not report any of his foreign income on his federal tax returns.
“This defendant thought that he could live two, separate lives—one here at Emory University and one in China as a Thousand Talents Program participant,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “Eventually, the truth caught up to this defendant, and he is now a convicted felon who is ordered to repay over $35,000 to the IRS.”
“The Department of Justice remains vigilant over programs such as the Thousand Talents Program that recruits professors and researchers to work for China,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “In this case, Li was caught in his lack of transparency. We are grateful for the work our partners have done to bring light to this case.”
“IRS Criminal Investigation is diligent when it comes to enforcing tax laws directed at those who attempt to defraud our nation’s tax system," said James E. Dorsey, Special Agent in Charge of Atlanta Field Office. “This sentencing is an example that federal tax crimes will not go unpunished. Those consequences include being a convicted felon and paying back all the taxes owed including penalties and interest.”
“Li's actions demonstrated a flagrant disrespect for the law and taxpayers,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI and our federal partners will always pursue individuals like Li, who victimize innocent taxpayers for their own personal gain.”
“Our watchdog agency will continue to aggressively investigate anyone who does not adhere to agency rules regarding the disclosure of foreign funding and affiliations,” said Special Agent in Charge Derrick L. Jackson, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to bring these types of cases to justice.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges and other information presented in court: In late 2011, while employed at Emory University, Li joined the Thousand Talents Program, a Chinese-government talent recruitment initiative that targets professors and researchers to work in China. Starting in 2012 and continuing until 2018, Li, while still working at Emory University researching, among other things, the use of large animal models to investigate Huntington’s disease, also worked at two Chinese universities—first at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and then at Jinan University—conducting similar large animal model research. Over those six years, Li earned at least $500,000 in foreign income that he never reported on his federal income tax returns.
Li’s false income tax returns came to light after the National Institutes of Health (“NIH”) reviewed Li’s NIH research grant applications and became concerned that he had failed to disclose, among other things, foreign research activity. Those concerns prompted Emory University, and later, federal law enforcement, to investigate the matter, which revealed Li’s false tax returns.
Xiao-Jiang Li, 63, of Atlanta, Georgia, pleaded guilty on May 8, 2020, and was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $35,089. He was also ordered to file lawful income tax returns for the years 2012 through 2018 within the first two months of his probation and fully cooperate with the Examination Division, Internal Revenue Service, in making a complete and accurate determination of all taxes, penalties, and interest that he owes.
The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Department of Health and Human Services OIG investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Samir Kaushal and Department of Justice National Security Division Trial Attorney Matthew J. McKenzie prosecuted the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Former Emory University Professor and Chinese “Thousand Talents” Participant Convicted and Sentenced for Filing a False Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
On May 8, 2020, Dr. Xiao-Jiang Li, 63, of Atlanta, Georgia, pleaded guilty to a criminal information charging him with filing a false tax return and has been sentenced by a U.S. District Judge on the same day. Dr. Li, a former Emory University professor and Chinese Thousand Talents Program participant, worked overseas at Chinese Universities and did not report any of his foreign income on his federal tax returns.
“The Department of Justice remains vigilant over programs such as the Thousand Talents Program that recruits professors and researchers to work for China,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers. “In this case Li was caught in his lack of transparency. We are grateful for the work our partners have done to bring light to this case.”
“This defendant thought that he could live two, separate lives — one here at Emory University and one in China as a Thousand Talents Program participant,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “Eventually, the truth caught up to this defendant, and he is now a convicted felon who is ordered to repay over $35,000 to the IRS.”
"As this case demonstrates, the FBI is committed to working with our partners to prevent individuals from utilizing the Chinese Government’s talent plan programs to commit fraud against the United States government and our universities," said Acting Assistant Director Robert R. Wells of the FBI's Counterintelligence Division.
"Li's actions demonstrated a flagrant disrespect for the law and all taxpayers," said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. "The FBI and our federal partners will always pursue individuals like Li, who victimize innocent taxpayers for their own personal gain."
“IRS Criminal Investigation is diligent when it comes to enforcing tax laws directed at those who attempt to defraud our nation’s tax system," said James E. Dorsey, Special Agent in Charge of Atlanta Field Office. “This sentencing is an example that federal tax crimes will not go unpunished. Those consequences include being a convicted felon and paying back all the taxes owed including penalties and interest.”
“Our watchdog agency will continue to aggressively investigate anyone who does not adhere to agency rules regarding the disclosure of foreign funding and affiliations,” said Special Agent in Charge Derrick L. Jackson, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to bring these type cases to justice.”
According to the charges and other information presented in court: In late 2011, while employed at Emory University, Li joined the Thousand Talents Program, a Chinese-government talent recruitment initiative that targets professors and researchers to work in China. Starting in 2012 and continuing until 2018, Li, while still working at Emory University researching, among other things, the use of large animal models to investigate Huntington’s disease, also worked at two Chinese universities — first at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and then at Jinan University — conducting similar large animal model research. Over those six years, Li earned at least $500,000 in foreign income that he never reported on his federal income tax returns.
Li’s false income tax returns came to light after the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reviewed Li’s NIH research grant applications and became concerned that he had failed to disclose, among other things, foreign research activity. Those concerns prompted Emory University, and later federal law enforcement, to investigate the matter which revealed Li’s false tax returns.
Li was sentenced to one year of probation on a felony charge and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $35,089. He was also ordered to file lawful income tax returns for the years 2012 through 2018 within the first two months of his probation and fully cooperate with the IRS, in making a complete and accurate determination of all taxes, penalties, and interest that he owes.
The IRS Criminal Investigations, FBI, and Department of Health and Human Services investigated this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Samir Kaushal and Department of Justice National Security Division Trial Attorney Matthew J. McKenzie prosecuted the case.
Former Co-Owner and CEO of Pharmacy Pleads Guilty in Prescription Drug Billing SchemeRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Today an additional defendant pled guilty in a long-running investigation into a prescription drug-billing scheme involving a Haleyville, Ala.-based pharmacy, Northside Pharmacy doing business as Global Compounding Pharmacy. U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp, Jr., U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Special Agent in Charge Derrick L. Jackson, Defense Criminal Investigative Service Special Agent in Charge Cynthia Bruce, United States Postal Inspector in Charge, Houston Division Adrian Gonzalez, and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Acting Special Agent in Charge Andrew Thornton announced the guilty plea.
John Jeremy Adams, 39 of Panama City Beach, Florida entered a guilty plea before U.S. District Judge L. Scott Coogler to one count of conspiring to commit health care and mail fraud, 16 counts of health care fraud, one count of conspiring to pay kickbacks to a prescriber, and seven counts of spending the proceeds of health care fraud. According to the plea agreement, Adams stipulated to a 10-year sentence.
Adams is the former owner and chief executive officer of Northside Pharmacy doing business as Global Compounding Pharmacy. Mr. Adam’s guilty plea brings the total number of defendants who have pled guilty in the larger investigation to 23. Those who have previously pled guilty include two nurse practitioners, the COO, a vice president of sales, an operations manager, a district manager, and multiple sales representatives. Trial against the four remaining defendants is set for June 29, 2020:
- James A. Mays, III, 44 of Winfield, Alabama, a pharmacist, charged in 20 counts;
- Jessica Linton, 37 of Clearwater, Florida, the manager of the billing team at Global, charged in 24 counts;
- Lisa Holmes, 41 of Troy, Alabama, a district manager supervising sales representatives at Global, charged in 12 counts; and
- John Gladden, 50, of Tallahassee, Florida, a district manager supervising sales representatives at Global, charged in nine counts.
“Our Office and partner agencies intend to investigate and prosecute all those who treat our health insurance plans as their personal piggy banks,” lead prosecutor Chinelo Diké-Minor said. “It may take time, but we intend to see that justice is done.”
“These defendants committed a reprehensible federal crime when they chose to steal funds designated to care for the sick,” United States Attorney Jay Town said. “Especially in this day and time where our health care system has the potential to be overwhelmed, we can ill afford to allow the wellness of many to be sacrificed by the greed of a few. I want to thank our partner agencies for their continued efforts to put a stop to health care fraud. We will continue to stand with them to not only uncover these frauds...but see them prosecuted in a federal courtroom.”
“It is sad to think that there are those who are so greedy they would steal from the sick,” FBI Special Agent in Charge Sharp said. “Today, Adam's has admitted to his greed and now, he along with his partners in crime, will be held accountable.”
“It’s more important than ever that we thoroughly investigate and bring to justice those who seek Federal health care programs as a way to line their own pockets,” said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General in Atlanta. “Together with our law enforcement partners we will continue to flush out the health care fraud.”
"I trust this sentence sends a message to those who would exploit government programs intended to help current and former military members and their families," DCIS Special Agent in Charge Cynthia Bruce said. "The DCIS, with our law enforcement partnerships, will dedicate all the time that is needed and resources available to bring these offenders to justice."
“In addition to undermining public health and safety, health care fraud cheats Americans out of more than eighty billion dollars a year in higher premiums and increased out-of-pocket expenses,” said Adrian Gonzalez, Postal Inspector in Charge, Houston Division. “The United States Postal Inspection Service is committed to investigations with our law enforcement partners whenever health care fraudsters try to involve the U.S. Mail in their nefarious schemes, as in this case against John Jeremy Adams, who was doing business as Global Compounding Pharmacy.”
According to the plea agreement, Mr. Adams participated in a scheme to cause the pharmacy he co-owned to bill for medically unnecessary prescription drugs. He paid prescribers to issue prescriptions and directed employees to get medically unnecessary drugs for themselves, family members, and friends, to alter prescriptions to add non-prescribed drugs, to automatically refill prescriptions regardless of patient need, to routinely waive and discount co-pays to induce patients to obtain and retain medically unnecessary drugs, and to bill for drugs without patients’ knowledge. According to the plea agreement, when prescription drug administrators attempted to police this conduct, the defendants evaded and obstructed those efforts, including by providing false information in response to audits and diverting their billing through affiliated pharmacies. The scheme targeted multiple health insurance plans, including the pharmacy’s Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama plan, as well as plans providing health insurance to the elderly, disabled, members of the military, and veterans—Medicare, TRICARE, and CHAMPVA, among others.
According to the plea agreement, Mr. Adams as directed the scheme and also joked about it. It describes a text exchange between him and another defendant in which they discuss altering prescriptions. She tells him she will be getting him white out as a birthday gift, and he responds “Yep. Made us money.”
The maximum punishment for the 18 U.S.C. § 1349 health care and mail fraud conspiracy charge is 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for health care fraud is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for the 18 U.S.C. § 371 kickback conspiracy charge is 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for the 18 U.S.C. § 1957 spending statute charge is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The FBI, HHS-OIG, DCIS, USPIS, IRS-CI, investigated the cases, which Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chinelo Dike-Minor, Don Long, and Edward Canter are prosecuting. The Veteran Affairs Office of Inspector General Criminal Investigations Division provided assistance in the investigation.
EDVA Honors Fallen Law Enforcement Heroes During Police WeekRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney G. Zachary Terwilliger and the Eastern District of Virginia will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local law enforcement.
“During Police Week, our nation appropriately pauses to celebrate the service and bravery of police officers from around the country who selflessly gave their last full measure of devotion,” said Terwilliger. “We will forever be in their debt for keeping our communities safe and allowing us the luxury of pursuing those ideals set forth by our founding fathers of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Led by Attorney General Barr, the Department is committed to supporting our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers and their families. EDVA has their back, and they most certainly have our deepest thanks. Respect. Honor. Remember.”
National Police Week events began yesterday and will continue through Saturday.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
In addition to honoring and recognizing our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners on Terwilliger's Twitter account and on EDVA’s Twitter account, EDVA leadership across the District will celebrate our law enforcement partners in various ways, including visiting local law enforcement divisions in Alexandria, Newport News, Norfolk, and Richmond to deliver breakfast and lunch to police departments.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including two officers here in the Eastern District of Virginia.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Ashland Man Sentenced to 57 Months for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
ASHLAND, Ky. - An Ashland man, Danny P. Chaffin Jr., 38, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison on Monday, before U.S. District Court Judge David L. Bunning, after previously pleading guilty to bank robbery.
According to Chaffin’s plea agreement, he admitted that on April 5, 2019, he robbed the Bluegrass Community Federal Credit Union in Ashland. Chaffin admitted to wearing a black mask and running into the Credit Union and demanding the teller to “Give me all the money now!” The teller complied, and Chaffin was able to take $12,506. Chaffin was arrested the following day in possession of $10,256 of the bank’s money.
Chaffin pleaded guilty in January 2020.
Under federal law, Chaffin must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years, following his release.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; James Robert Brown, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Chief Todd Kelley, Ashland Police Department; jointly announced the sentencing.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Ashland Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Moynahan.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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10 May 2020
Wisconsin’s Two U.s. Attorneys Acknowledge Police WeekRead the Press Release
In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorneys Matthew D. Krueger (Eastern District of Wisconsin) and Scott C. Blader (Western District of Wisconsin) recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
"Our country’s safety and prosperity depend on the rule of law, which requires law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Krueger. “The men and women who serve as police officers deserve our deepest thanks, especially now as they report to work daily at greater risk to themselves. Our police officers epitomize the highest value of sacrifice for the good of others. We especially remember Officer Rittner and Officer Hetland who made the ultimate sacrifice last year.”
“I am inspired every day by the unwavering commitment of America’s law enforcement officers to protect us as they face challenges and threats such as violence, terrorism, and now a pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “They are dedicated to making our communities safer and our country more secure, and the heroes who have given their lives in service to us will not be forgotten.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including Milwaukee Police Officer Matthew Rittner on February 16 and Racine Police Officer John Hetland on June 17.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
In addition, the Milwaukee Police Department lost Officer Kou Her, who was killed on June 18 when a driver ran a red light and struck Her’s vehicle as he was driving home after his shift. The other driver has been charged with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). To register to view this free online event, please www.LawMemorial.org/.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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United States Attorney Weisman Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Aaron L. Weisman recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
United States Attorney Arron L. Weisman added, “Every day we as a community ask our police officers to put themselves in harm’s way to protect us. Given what we as a nation are going through today, they do so at even greater peril. Yet, without hesitation they stand tall on the front lines twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. We will never stop being grateful.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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United States Attorney Richard P. Donoghue Recognizes National Police WeekRead the Press Release
BROOKLYN, NY— In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Richard P. Donoghue salutes the service and sacrifice of federal, state and local law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” stated Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“During National Police Week, I join the staff of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York in extending our thanks and deepest appreciation to the members of law enforcement who perform extraordinary and selfless service by protecting our communities from every threat imaginable, including an invisible virus,” stated United States Attorney Donoghue. “We will never forget those brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice, and we remember, too, their families who have suffered the profound loss of a parent, child or sibling who chose a vocation to serve their fellow New Yorkers.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
- Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including New York City Police Department Detective Brian Simonsen in the Eastern District of New York. At least 41 members of the New York City Police Department, one member of the Sands Point Police Department and one volunteer with the Suffolk County Auxiliary Police have died from the Coronavirus.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The candlelight vigil can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
- Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including New York City Police Department Detective Brian Simonsen in the Eastern District of New York. At least 41 members of the New York City Police Department, one member of the Sands Point Police Department and one volunteer with the Suffolk County Auxiliary Police have died from the Coronavirus.
United States Attorney Michael Bailey Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Michael Bailey and the entire District of Arizona office recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. National Police Week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“While most of us are apt to run or hide from danger, the men and women in law enforcement run toward it. They accept the risk of death or injury as part of their calling – to serve as a barrier between members of the public and victimization,” said United States Attorney Michael Bailey. “We take this week to thank law enforcement officers, and their families, for their service and their sacrifice on our behalf.”In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including two officers here in the District of Arizona.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.U.S. Attorneys Acknowledge Police WeekRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorneys Matthew D. Krueger (Eastern District of Wisconsin) and Scott C. Blader (Western District of Wisconsin) recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“Our country’s safety and prosperity depend on the rule of law, which requires law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Krueger. “The men and women who serve as police officers deserve our deepest thanks, especially now as they report to work daily at greater risk to themselves. Our police officers epitomize the highest value of sacrifice for the good of others. We especially remember Officer Rittner and Officer Hetland who made the ultimate sacrifice last year.”
“I am inspired every day by the unwavering commitment of America’s law enforcement officers to protect us as they face challenges and threats such as violence, terrorism, and now a pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Blader. “They are dedicated to making our communities safer and our country more secure, and the heroes who have given their lives in service to us will not be forgotten.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including Milwaukee Police Officer Matthew Rittner on February 16 and Racine Police Officer John Hetland on June 17.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
In addition, the Milwaukee Police Department lost Officer Kou Her, who was killed on June 18 when a driver ran a red light and struck Her’s vehicle as he was driving home after his shift. The other driver has been charged with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be a live stream to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT).
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney Trent Shores Recognizes National Police Week and the Selfless Work Performed by Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
TULSA, Okla.— U.S. Attorney Trent Shores recognizes and is thankful for the work our law enforcement partners perform every day in communities throughout northeastern Oklahoma. During National Police Week—Sunday, May 10 through Saturday May 16, 2020—the contributions and selfless sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement will be honored.
Law enforcements’ dedication to Oklahoma’s communities continues, regardless of natural disasters or pandemics. Recently sheriffs, chiefs, troopers, agents, marshals and officers joined together with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Oklahoma to create a public service announcement, letting the public know: We have your back and our work continues.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
"I salute the unrelenting commitment of our police officers to serve and protect our communities. Every day, the courageous men and women of America’s police forces put their lives on the line so that others may enjoy their unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “The sacrifice of our law enforcement officers does not go unnoticed. Police officers answer the call whenever and wherever they are needed, including in times of a public health crisis. In 2019 alone, 89 officers were killed in the line of duty, and this year, 92 law enforcement officers have died from coronavirus nationwide. I acknowledge their sacrifice; I acknowledge their deeply felt losses, and I mourn with their families.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“We salute and honor those brave men and women of federal, state, county, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies that respect and enforce the rule of law and who put their lives on the line every day so that Americans can safely live in peace. Being a law enforcement officer is a tough job, and this week we pay tribute and recognize those we have lost while courageously acting in the line of duty.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney Recognizes National Police Week, Honors Maine Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Halsey B. Frank will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10, through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“We owe a profound debt of gratitude to the men and women of law enforcement,” U.S. Attorney Frank said. “Law enforcement officers are in the community protecting all of us, day or night, even in the midst of this global pandemic. Here in Maine, we had many examples of heroic and selfless acts by police officers in 2019, including Waterville officer Timothy Hinton, who despite being shot in both arms by an assailant during a traffic stop last December, continued to pursue the shooter. And we will never forget Detective Benjamin Campbell of the Maine State Police, who died tragically in April of last year while assisting a motorist. The employees of the U.S. Attorney’s Office are honored to work with our federal, state, local and tribal partners.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019, including Detective Campbell, who died on April 3, 2019, while assisting a stopped motorist on Interstate 95.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 p.m. (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney McAllister Recognizes Police Week in KansasRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“Here in Kansas, we lost an officer in the line of duty already this year,” McAllister said. “We will not forget Mike Mosher or any of the other law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives to keep us safe.” Officer Mosher of the Overland Park Police Department was shot and killed May 3 while responding to a hit-and run-incident.
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
Based on data collected and analyzed by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 89 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2019. Already this year, one Kansas officer died in the line of duty. Overland Park Police Office Officer Mosher was shot and killed May 3 while responding to a possible hit and run.
Comprehensive data tables and brief narratives describing most of the fatal attacks last year are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2019.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). The online event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNLEOMF.
U.S. Attorney for Utah Recognizes Law Enforcement Officers as National Police Week BeginsRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY – U.S. Attorney John W. Huber is recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement as National Law Enforcement Week begins. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.
“As we begin another week amidst the upheaval of the pandemic, may we pause to remember our law enforcement heroes,” Huber said today. “These men and women continue to risk their own personal safety on our behalf. They are selfless, brave and dedicated to preserving peace and ensuring justice.”
“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”
“Utah police officers make our communities better places to live in ways both large and small. We observe daily examples of their commitment to the communities they serve, from metro Salt Lake City to the Navajo Nation in southern Utah. Police officers do extraordinary things, often making split-second decisions. They deserve our appreciation and thanks,” Huber said. “We also remember those officers who have given their lives in the line of duty in Utah. This week gives us a chance to pay tribute to the service of those who serve us.”
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.
The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). To register to view this free online event, please www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.
To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.