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27 April 2020
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Charge following Safe Streets Task Force Investigation of South Side GangRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to narcotics trafficking in connection with a large-scale investigation conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
James Givner, 26 pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of heroin and fentanyl before United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV. He also pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine. Mr. Dunbar is one of 36 defendants charged in the Indictment.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in 2017, the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force initiated an investigation primarily targeting the Darccide/Smash 44, or DS44, neighborhood gang, and its 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 Givner sold heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine base to customers, as well as facilitated drug transactions for co-defendant Christopher Highsmith. The court was further informed that during a traffic stop on January 14, 2019, the Allegheny County Police, Givner possessed more than 180 stamp bags of heroin, and a baggie containing cocaine base. In connection with his guilty plea, Mr. Givner accepted responsibility for distributing or possessing with intent to distribute 220 grams of heroin and fentanyl, and 6 grams of cocaine base. He also admitted to possessing a firearm in connection with his drug trafficking activity.
Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for Sept. 11, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years up to 40 years of imprisonment, a fine of $6,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Mr. Givner remains in custody pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Christy C. Wiegand is prosecuting 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 YorkCityPolice Department,Mount Oliver Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Yonkers Police Department,United States MarshalsFugitive Task Force, and the United States Postal InspectionService.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task ForceProgram (OCDETF).The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination thatallows federal and state agencies to work togetherto successfully identify, investigate,and prosecutemajor interstate and international drug traffickingorganizations and other criminal enterprises.
Philadelphia Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening Both a Lehigh County Solicitor and a Private AttorneyRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Samuel Meeker, 38, of Philadelphia, PA, pleaded guilty today to two counts of interstate communication of threats against two individuals: a Lehigh County public official and a private attorney. United States District Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl presided over the guilty plea hearing in Reading via video teleconference.
On August 9, 2019, the defendant left a threatening telephone voice message for a Lehigh County Solicitor using the Lehigh County Law Department’s internet voicemail system. The defendant threatened physical force against the victim and communicated his desire that the entire County of Lehigh be destroyed and wiped from the map.
Two days later, on August 11, 2019, the defendant left a telephone voice message for a private lawyer, who was the personal and estate attorney for the defendant’s father. The defendant threatened force against the lawyer and all other partners in the lawyer’s law firm, stating that the defendant would destroy them.
“Specific threats of violence like the ones made here must be taken very seriously and deserve an immediate response from law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “Meeker made vile threats against multiple innocent people, including a public servant. I am thankful to the FBI for their swift handling of this potentially explosive situation.”
“You can't just call and threaten people with violent physical harm and not face repercussions,” said Michael J. Driscoll, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Philadelphia Division. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners have to take you at your word and intervene, because protecting human life is our absolute priority. Samuel Meeker is being held appropriately accountable for his actions.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kishan Nair.
Pennsylvania Man Involved in Multistate Bank Fraud and Identity Theft Scheme Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Peter Quinn, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, announced that ANTHONY C. INNARELLA, SR., 63, formerly of Kunkletown, Pennsylvania, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden to bank fraud and identity theft offenses.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Innarella and another individual possessed multiple fake driver’s licenses and credit cards in the names of other people and used these fraudulent forms of identification to register phony businesses with municipal offices and county clerks to obtain trade name certificates. They also obtained Employer Identification Numbers (“EINs”) from the Internal Revenue Service in the names of the phony businesses. Between approximately October 2016 and May 2017, Innarella and the other individual, posing as business owners, traveled to banks in Connecticut, Delaware, Virginia, New Jersey, Massachusetts and elsewhere and used the fraudulent identifications, trade name certificates and EINs to open new business bank accounts. Numerous fraudulent accounts were linked to legitimate accounts of the people whose identities Innarella and the other individual had used.
Through this scheme, more than $1 million was transferred into the fraudulent business bank accounts, and Innarella and the other individual withdrew cash and cashier’s checks totaling approximately $363,000 from the accounts.
On April 5, 2017, Innarella was arrested by the Fairfield Police Department in connection with a fraudulent bank account he had opened at a Wells Fargo Bank branch in Fairfield. At the time of his arrest, he and his co-conspirator possessed numerous counterfeit driver’s licenses and credit cards in other individuals’ names, several cellphones bearing sticker labels with the names of different individuals, more than $34,000 in cash, and other items connecting him to a bank fraud and identity theft scheme. State charges against Innarella are pending.
Innarella has been detained in federal custody since June 13, 2019. Prior to that date, he was in state custody in Connecticut and New Jersey.
Innarella pleaded guilty to one count conspiracy to commit bank fraud, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of two years. A sentencing date is not scheduled.
This matter is being investigated by the Connecticut Financial Crimes Task Force, U.S. Secret Service, Greenwich Police Department, Fairfield Police Department, Delaware State Police and Virginia State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia E. King in coordination with State’s Attorney for the Fairfield (Conn.) Judicial District, Delaware Attorney General’s Office, Prince William County (Va.) Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, and the Cape May County (N.J.) Prosecutor’s Office.
Op Ed: Crime Victims and Public Safety During Covid-19Read the Press Release
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981and established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. Likewise, the current Administration has implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.
In FY 2020, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) will award more than $1.6 billion in victim assistance formula funding to support domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, child advocacy programs, homicide support groups, identity theft services, and local victim assistance programs. Through initiatives such as Project Guardian and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Justice Department is using more data, resources, and technology than ever before to prevent firearms from illegally coming into possession of known domestic abusers and violent offenders.
This year Victims’ Rights Week has occurred in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, from the beginning of the coronavirus crisis, Attorney General Barr made it clear that the critical law enforcement mission of the Justice Department will continue. All of us in law
enforcement – federal, state, local and tribal - are committed to maintaining public safety and the rule of law amidst this crisis.
As the coronavirus outbreak in this country intensified, we have seen proposals advocating the indiscriminate wholesale release of prisoners from state and federal custody. The Department of Justice is taking a proactive, but lawful and safe, approach to expanding the use of home confinement, but only for those inmates who do not pose a danger to their communities. The Attorney General has made clear that public safety, including the safety of victims, is paramount.
Put in other words, we cannot let a public health crisis become a public safety crisis. For example, sending domestic abusers home in the midst of this crisis, where victims of domestic abuse are more isolated than ever, is irresponsible.
While violent crime is decreasing during the pandemic, domestic violence calls for service are on the rise. People are more isolated. Abusive partners are under more stress. The options for escape are limited. These situations are especially dangerous for police, who are killed or injured all too often responding to domestic violence calls.
In the federal prison system alone, prisoners in federal custody have been convicted of child exploitation and violent crimes. COVID-19 presents real risks but so does allowing serious criminals such as violent gang members and child predators to roam free.
Police are already at elevated risk to this virus, and some have lost their lives to it. The last thing they need is additional burdens from released prisoners who go on to commit more crimes against a vulnerable community.
Attorney General Barr makes it crystal clear that our paramount concern must always be the safety of our communities. We, in the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee, dedicate ourselves to protecting the rights of victims and preventing victimization not only as we paused to recognize National Crime Victims’ Rights Week but also during this crisis and throughout the year.
J. Douglas Overbey
United States Attorney
Eastern District of TennesseeNDTX Round-Up: April 17-23Read the Press Release
CHARGED – WILLIAM ADAM JONATHAN SMITH aka “Detroit”
On April 22, William Adam Jonathan Smith, 30, was charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to engage in child sex trafficking. During an anti-human trafficking sting, agents encountered a juvenile female as well as an adult female, Charity Cantu, engage in prostitution. In a subsequent interview, Cantu admitted that at the direction of Smith she assisted grooming the minor into a commercial sex worker. Smith rented hotel rooms for commercial sex work with commercial sex clients and receive all the compensation that the minor made.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence, and like all defendants, Smith is innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Smith faces up to life in federal custody. This case was investigated by HSI, Texas Attorney General’s Office, and Denton Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Doug Allen.
SENTENCING – MCKINNLEY BRIAN HOBBS aka “Coach”
On April 17, McKinnley Hobbs, 39, was sentenced to 77 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Hobbs helped coordinate the delivery and distribution of cocaine to persons known and unknown throughout the Northern District of Texas. This case was investigated by the Dallas Police Department and the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Phelesa Guy.
SENTENCING – TROY ANYHONY PEEBLES
On April 22, Troy Anthony Peebles, 47, was sentenced via video teleconference to six months (time served) for impersonation of an officer or employee of the United States. Peebles admits that following a flight from Belize to the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol officers conducted a routine screening, only to discover contraband in his luggage. Claiming to be a Special Agent with the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Services, Peebles flashed a faux badge and attempted to proceed through the checkpoint. Prosecutors revealed a subsequent search of Peebles’ phone revealed photos of him dressed in a “federal agent” jacket and fraternizing with state and local law enforcement officers. This case was investigated by the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Dana.
SENTENCING – TARA TENISE JONES
On April 22, Tara Tenise Jones, 38, was sentenced to 15 months in federal custody for felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm in a school zone. Previously convicted of a felony, Jones unlawfully possessed a .40 caliber Magnum Research Deseret Eagle. She admitted to carrying the firearm onto the grounds of Thompson Elementary school in Mesquite, Texas. This case was investigated by Mesquite Police Department and the ATF and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Boyle.
Man from Deming, New Mexico faces federal meth trafficking chargeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Lorenzo Sanchez, 39, of Deming, New Mexico, appeared in federal court in Las Cruces, New Mexico today for an initial appearance on a criminal complaint charging him with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to the criminal complaint, Sanchez allegedly possessed approximately 809 grams of methamphetamine in his vehicle at the time of a traffic stop in Luna County, New Mexico on Aug. 22, 2019. Sanchez also allegedly possessed $5,000 from selling narcotics.
On April 23, special agents from Homeland Security Investigations and other law enforcement agencies tried to arrest Sanchez at a home between Deming and Columbus, New Mexico on an arrest warrant issued in federal court. However, Sanchez barricaded himself inside the home. After a three-hour standoff, Homeland Security Investigations special agents arrested Sanchez without incident.
Sanchez is currently in custody pending a detention hearing on April 30. If convicted, he faces up to life imprisonment for the charged offenses. A criminal complaint is only an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The Homeland Security Investigations and the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Border Drug Task Force investigated this case with assistance from the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Saltman is prosecuting this case.
Local Pharmacist Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Distribution of OxycodoneRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Hong Truong (54, Dunedin) has pleaded guilty to the unlawful distribution of oxycodone outside the scope of professional practice. Truong faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. She has agreed to a money judgment in the amount of $766,819 to the United States, representing the proceeds of her illegal drug distribution.
According to the
plea agreement , Truong was a licensed pharmacist who owned and operated HP Pharmacy located in Pinellas Park, Florida. Under federal regulations, pharmacists registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration, such as Truong, were responsible for the proper prescribing and dispensing of controlled substance prescriptions. At HP Pharmacy, Truong filled Schedule II controlled substance prescriptions for oxycodone and hydromorphone that were outside the usual course of professional practice and not issued for a legitimate medical purpose. In connection with these prescriptions, Truong ignored and failed to resolve red flags, in violation of her responsibility as a pharmacist. For example, in return for filling 30 mg oxycodone and 8 mg hydromorphone prescriptions, Truong charged and only accepted in cash, a higher-than-market-per-pill price – usually $5-6 per pill. Truong ordered a much higher volume of opiates for HP Pharmacy inventory than average in comparison to other Florida pharmacies and those across the United States. Further, Truong and the pharmacy tech she employed, Jessica Evans, falsely noted on the back of many prescriptions that the prescriptions had been verified with the prescriber’s office, when they had not. Evans has also pleaded guilty for her role in the scheme and is awaiting sentencing.Truong also filled prescriptions for “opiate naïve” patients (those who had never been previously prescribed opiates) without consulting with the prescribing physician or the patient as to the diagnosis and need for the prescription. Many of Truong’s opiate patients were young, healthy-looking, and had traveled far distances to Truong’s small pharmacy in Pinellas Park, usually after visiting a prescribing physician located in Tampa.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Attorney’s Office’s Opioid Fraud Abuse and Detection Unit. The OFAD Unit focuses on opioid-related fraud and abuse by medical and health care professionals who have contributed to the prescription opioid epidemic. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelley Howard-Allen and Greg Pizzo.
Houston man gets significant sentence after multiple Metro PCS robberiesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 20-year-old resident of Houston has received a major federal sentence following his convictions on four counts of aiding and abetting interference with commerce by robbery and three counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Jamal Tyrea Allen pleaded guilty Jan. 31, admitting to four robberies that occurred in April 2018 and the related firearms offenses.
Today, U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison ordered Allen to serve a total of 48 months for his role in the robberies. He also received an 84-month sentence for the first firearms charge and another 168 months for the subsequent brandishing charges to be served consecutively to each other and the other term imposed. The total 25-year prison sentence will be immediately followed by five years of supervised release.
On or about April 9, 2018, Allen entered the Metro PCS located on Long Point Road in Houston where he pointed a pistol at an employee. He took money from the register and demanded to know where iPhones were located. The employee said they were out, and Allen eventually fled with the cash.
Five days later, he entered another Metro PCS on Woodforest Boulevard and again pointed a firearm at another employee, demanding iPhones. When the cashier said he did not know where they were, Allen chambered a round into the firearm and continued making demands. He found the phones, then fled with them as well as stolen cash.
Allen robbed another Metro PCS April 24, 2018, where he also made violent threats. He walked into the Little York Road location, pulled out a handgun and pointed it at a female employee, stating “You need to find me money or I am going to kill you.” When she informed him they did not have any iPhones, he got increasingly angry and threatened to kill her. She gave him money from the cash register while he was still pointing his firearm and making death threats.
Finally, on April 27 the same year, he arrived at Metro PCS on Airline Drive and made similar demands and threats. There, he pointed a firearm to the head of an employee, saying he was not playing and that he would shoot him. Once a second cashier entered the lobby, Allen made them get money from the cash register and forced both to the store’s back room at gunpoint.
After leaving the store, law enforcement stopped Allen, found the money and iPhones in the car and took him into custody.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI and Houston Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Stotts is prosecuting the case.
Honduran Citizen Sentenced for Illegal Reentry after DWI ConvictionRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Honduran man pleaded guilty and was sentenced today for illegal reentry into the United States.
“Ruiz-Lopez has repeatedly disregarded our nation’s laws by illegally entering the United States on at least four separate occasions,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Ruiz-Lopez’s habitual criminal behavior, such as felony-level drunk driving and failure to attend court hearings, also is indicative of his lack of respect for the laws of this country.”
According to court documents, Alexis Giovanni Ruiz-Lopez, 35, has illegally entered the United States at least four times since 2004. In August 2004, Ruiz-Lopez was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Laredo, Texas, after illegally entering the United States without inspection or permission of a designated official. Although Ruiz-Lopez was convicted of illegal entry and sentenced to three years’ probation, he was released on his own recognizance and failed to appear at a subsequent immigration hearing. Ruiz-Lopez was not apprehended for another ten years, until he was arrested in Mississippi and removed to Honduras in January 2014.
After his first removal in 2014, Ruiz-Lopez illegally reentered the United States. In January 2015, Ruiz-Lopez was arrested in Houston, Texas, and on April 6, 2015, Ruiz-Lopez was removed for a second time to Honduras. Ruiz-Lopez then illegally returned to the United States, and in December 2015, he was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol in Texas. After being convicted for illegal reentry and sentenced to 30 days’ confinement, Ruiz-Lopez was removed to Honduras for a third time.
Following his third removal to Honduras, Ruiz-Lopez illegally reentered the United States once more. In April 2017, Ruiz-Lopez was arrested in Richmond for public intoxication, and in October 2019, he was arrested in Chesterfield County for driving while intoxicated. On November 14, 2019, Ruiz-Lopez was convicted in Chesterfield General District Court for DWI and related charges.
After serving his sentence in Chesterfield, Ruiz-Lopez was transferred to federal custody. He pleaded guilty in federal court to illegal reentry. U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson then sentenced him to over five months incarceration. The defendant had already as of today been in custody that length of time and so was transferred to ICE custody for prompt deportation.
“ICE is committed to upholding our immigration laws and protecting public safety,” said Matthew Munroe, Acting Field Office Director for the ICE ERO Washington, D.C. Field Office. “Ruiz-Lopez was removed from the U.S. three times. He was afforded due process in immigration and criminal court but chose to repeatedly return, flouting U.S. law.”
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Matthew Munroe, Acting Field Office Director for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Washington, D.C. Field Office, made the announcement after Senior U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorneys S. David Schiller and Thomas Garnett prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:17-cr-66.
Harvard University Agrees to Pay over $1.3 Million to Resolve Allegations of Overcharging NIH GrantsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Harvard University has agreed to pay $1,359,791 to resolve allegations that Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health (HSPH) overcharged certain grants funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). This settlement resulted from Harvard’s self-disclosure of issues that it identified on NIH and HRSA grants by a particular professor and her team between at least 2009 and 2014.
Colleges and universities receiving federal grants are required to accurately track their time and effort and only charge grants for time and effort that employees spent working on those grants. Overstating time and effort spent on grants can result in awarding agencies (in this case NIH and HRSA) paying more than is justified.
The government contends that the HSPH professor, Donna Spiegelman, and her team overstated the time and effort spent working on certain NIH grants for which they provided support (and where they were not principal investigators or key personnel). The overcharges were associated with statistical analysis support that the professor and her team provided to other HSPH professors on grant-related research. The government alleges that Professor Spiegelman and her team inappropriately charged their time and effort by evenly distributing their time across all grants for which they provided statistical support, without accurately accounting for the time they actually spent on particular grants. The government further alleges that Professor Spiegelman overstated a portion of her time and effort on a HRSA-funded President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (“PEPFAR”) grant, on which she was key personnel. As a result, between 2009 and 2014, Professor Spiegelman and her team allegedly overcharged certain NIH and HRSA grants by approximately $1,359,791.
This settlement also resolves allegations that HSPH knew or should have known that the manner in which Professor Spiegelman, and those working under her direction, were charging time and effort had resulted in or would result in overcharges to these NIH grants. HSPH did not timely review Professor Spiegelman’s historical timekeeping to determine whether she and her team had overcharged grants, despite questions being raised for several years about these timekeeping practices.
“As this resolution shows, this Office will continue to examine whether colleges and universities, and their professors, are appropriately using government funding,” said United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling. “Grant fraud wastes scarce government resources and limits the availability of funding for other research. We commend Harvard for itself disclosing the alleged overcharges at the School of Public Health and for taking steps to prevent future recurrences.”
“Institutions that receive government-funded research grants have an obligation to the American taxpayer to accurately account for their use of those funds,” said Phillip Coyne, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General. “This settlement demonstrates OIG’s commitment to ensuring that taxpayer dollars are not wasted, and that organizations that receive these funds are truthful in their dealings with federal agencies like the NIH and HRSA”
Since Harvard disclosed these potential overcharges to NIH and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2016, it investigated the potential overcharges by the professor and others at HSPH, disclosed its findings, and worked cooperatively to explain the overcharges. In addition, Harvard has put in place additional internal controls and safeguards aimed at preventing overcharges from occurring in the future.
United States Attorney Lelling and HHS OIG SAC Coyne made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian M. LaMacchia and Jessica J. Weber of Lelling’s Affirmative Litigation Unit handled the matter.
Hartford Man Admits Selling Crack and FentanylRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KENDALL FAIR, 20, of Hartford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Jeffrey A. Meyer to distributing crack cocaine.
Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2019, after a spate of gun violence in Hartford, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, DEA, Hartford Police Department and other law enforcement agencies initiated an investigation targeting gang-related drug distribution and associated violence in north Hartford. Between August and September 2019, investigators made three controlled purchases of crack and two controlled purchases of crack and fentanyl from Fair.
On September 13, 2019, investigators arrested Fair at his residence. During a search of Fair’s bedroom, investigators seized approximately 15 grams of crack, a quantity of cocaine, and six bags of fentanyl.
Fair pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of cocaine base (“crack”), an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Judge Meyer scheduled sentencing for July 21, 2020.
Fair has been detained since his arrest.
The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.
Georgia Residents Charged in Utah Bank Fraud Scheme, Targeted Homeless Individuals to Cash ChecksRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY – Three Georgia residents, accused of running an interstate criminal fraud scheme and preying on vulnerable individuals to facilitate their crimes, are charged in a 28-count federal complaint unsealed Friday.
Malik Wright, age 22, Tony Hutchinson, age 22, and Joseph D. Jackson, age 22, all of Atlanta, are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, 15 counts of possession of counterfeit securities, and 12 counts of aggravated identity theft in the complaint.
“These serious allegations outline a troubling scenario – out-of-state suspects recruited vulnerable adults into their plan that targeted Utah financial institutions for fraud,” U.S. Attorney John W. Huber said today. “Rest assured, during Utah’s stay at home directive, my office and our partners continue our work to keep Utah safe.”
The complaint alleges the defendants traveled from Atlanta to various states, including Utah, in rental cars. They obtained bank account numbers and bank routing information for checking accounts for several businesses, including stealing checks from the mail. Jackson and other conspirators used the stolen information to make counterfeit checks that were drawn against the victim businesses’ accounts.
Jackson directed Wright and Hutchinson to the location of homeless shelters. Wright and Hutchinson then targeted homeless individuals, who had government-issued identification cards, to act as check cashers of the counterfeit checks, the complaint alleges.
Once Wright and Hutchinson identified viable check cashers, conspirators, including Jackson, made counterfeit checks payable to the check cashers. Wright and Hutchinson took the check cashers to a Walmart and purchased clothing for them to change into so they would not appear to be homeless individuals, according to the complaint. After getting new clothes, the check cashers were driven to locations where the counterfeit checks were negotiated.
According to the complaint, on Dec. 10, 2019, the defendants attempted to cash seven checks totaling $13,860.95 at various Zions Bank branches drawn on the account of a Utah business. As a result of these efforts, the bank lost $11,882.73. A day later, the defendants attempted to cash seven checks totaling $11,882.51 at various Zions Bank branches. Six of the checks were cashed, causing a $9,893.10 to Zions Bank.
Law enforcement officers stopped Wright and Hutchinson on Dec. 11, 2019, after employees at a Layton branch of Zions Bank alerted police that an individual was in the bank attempting to cash a fraudulent check. The suspect fled the bank and got into a Silver GMC Yukon. Officers were able to find the vehicle and conduct a traffic stop. Wright and Hutchinson were in the front seats of the vehicle.
The individual who went into the bank was interviewed and told officers that earlier in the day, Wright and Hutchinson approached him near the homeless shelter, flashed a large amount of cash, and asked him if he wanted to make some money. Wright and Hutchinson drove the individual to Layton and told him he would be given checks with his name on them. He said he would go into banks, cash the checks, and give the money to Hutchinson. He would then receive a small portion of the money back.
At the time of the traffic stop, Wright and Hutchinson were in possession of 15 counterfeit checks purporting to be drawn on numerous actual business accounts. According to the complaint, two other homeless men passed fraudulent checks in Utah on behalf of Wright, Hutchinson, and Jackson on Dec. 10, 2019 and Dec. 11, 2019.
The complaint alleges Wright, Hutchinson, and Jackson are part of a group that travels around the country running bank fraud schemes that prey on homeless and vulnerable individuals to cash checks for them. According to the complaint, they traveled in Colorado, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and other states to achieve the goals of the conspiracy.
Wright and Hutchinson are in custody in Utah. Jackson was arrested recently in Georgia and has an appearance in federal court in Atlanta Monday. Wright and Hutchinson have detention hearings Tuesday afternoon.
The potential maximum penalty for the conspiracy to commit bank fraud is 30 years in prison. Each of the possession of counterfeit securities counts has a potential maximum penalty of 10 years. Aggravated identity theft counts have mandatory minimum two-year penalties that run consecutive to the sentence for any other counts.
Postal inspectors from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and officers with the Layton Police Department are investigating the case.
Complaints are not findings of guilt. Individuals charged in complaints are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Eighth Circuit Upholds Determination that Wells Fargo is Liable for Penalties for Engaging in Abusive Tax Shelter SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a precedential opinion on Friday, April 24, 2020, affirming a district court decision that a transaction designed to generate massive foreign tax credits (referred to as the STARS tax shelter) lacked economic substance and business purpose and was subject to the accuracy-related penalty for negligence, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman and Deputy Assistant Attorney General Joshua Wu of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.
In Wells Fargo v. United States, No. 17-3578, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the decision of the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota and the position of the United States. Wells Fargo, like several other U.S. banks, had entered into the STARS shelter, a transaction promoted to them by Barclays PLC and KPMG as a method of generating foreign tax credits on U.S. income. The Eighth Circuit rejected the transaction as an economic sham subject to penalties, consistent with the decisions of three other courts of appeals. In rejecting Wells Fargo’s appeal, the court agreed with the government that “STARS was an elaborate and unlawful tax avoidance scheme, designed to exploit the differences between the tax laws of the U.S. and the U.K. and generate U.S. tax credits for a foreign tax that Wells Fargo did not, in substance, pay.”
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman thanked Tax Division attorney Judith Hagley and former Tax Division attorneys Gilbert Rothenberg and Richard Farber, who handled the case on appeal for the government, as well as Chief Senior Litigation Counsel Dennis Donohue, Senior Litigation Counsel Kari Larson, trial attorneys William Farrior, Harris Phillips, Matthew Johnshoy, and former Tax Division attorney Viki Economides Farrior, who litigated the case in the district court.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Dominican National Sentenced for Health Care Fraud, Misuse of a Social Security Number, ID TheftRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE – A Dominican national in the United States illegally, who admitted to fraudulently gaining access to Medicaid benefits with the use of a stolen identity and Social Security number, was sentenced today to two years and one day in federal prison.
Martha Martinez Lara, 48, previously admitted to the court that in August 2015, she applied for Medicaid benefits in Rhode Island using a stolen identity, date of birth, and Social Security number of another person. Lara’s application for Medicaid coverage was approved, and from approximately September 2015 through January 2019, she obtained RIte Care benefits totaling $11,288.46.
An investigation by Homeland Security Investigations agents determined that the identity and Social Security number used by Lara belonged to a person living in Puerto Rico who told investigators that she never lived nor visited Rhode Island.
Lara, who was arrested on August 1, 2019, pleaded guilty on December 2, 2019, to an information charging her with false representation of a Social Security number, aggravated identity theft, and health care fraud.
Lara was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., to 24 months in federal prison, one year supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $11,288.46, announced United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman, Phillip Coyne, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and Homeland Security Investigations Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Molina.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dulce Donovan.
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Department of Justice Combats Sexual Harassment Related to Housing During COVID-19 PandemicRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – The Department of Justice is dedicated to combatting sexual harassment in housing. Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the Department has heard reports of landlords sexually harassing tenants who are experiencing financial hardship and are unable to afford rent. This conduct is illegal and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for theWestern District of Michigan will tirelessly pursue landlords and others who abuse their authority by preying upon the vulnerable.
"Sexual harassment in housing is often underreported, but it is an egregious violation of a person’s right to fair housing," Andrew Birge, United States Attorney for the Western District of Michigan said. "Landlords or property managers using the coronavirus crisis as an opportunity to extort sexual acts, or even commit assaults, against vulnerable tenants struggling to pay rent is intolerable. Our office is dedicated to uncovering such violations where they exist and vigorously enforcing the law."
The Department of Justice, through the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Civil Rights Division, enforces the federal Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination prohibited by the Act. The Justice Department brings cases each year involving unlawful landlord conduct, including allegations that defendants have exposed themselves sexually to current or prospective tenants, requested sexual favors in exchange for reduced rents or making necessary repairs, made unrelenting and unwanted sexual advances to tenants, and evicted tenants who resisted their sexual overtures. More information about the Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is available on its webpage at https://www.justice.gov/crt/sexual-harassment-housing-initiative.
The Department encourages anyone who has experienced sexual harassment in housing, or knows someone who has, to contact the Civil Rights Division by calling 1-(844) 380-6178 or emailing [email protected].
Individuals in West Michigan who believe they may have been victims of discrimination may also present a complaint to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan by calling (616) 808-2004 or emailing [email protected].
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Chenango County Man Arrested on Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK - Patrick M. Kain, age 33, of Norwich, New York, was arrested and charged today with sexually exploiting a child, announced United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Susan Ferensic, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The federal criminal complaint charges that in February 2019, Kain sexually exploited a child under the age of 6 for the purpose of producing visual depictions of that abuse. The charges in the pending federal complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
If convicted of the charge alleged in the complaint, Kain faces a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 25 years, a maximum sentence of 50 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
Kain appeared today before United States Magistrate Judge Miroslav Lovric, and was detained pending further proceedings.
This case is being investigated by the FBI, the New York State Police, and the Chenango County District Attorney’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Gadarian as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
California Man Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison for Arson of Northwest Restaurant and Assault on a Police OfficerRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Ryan Jaselskis, 24, of Northridge, CA, was sentenced yesterday to 48 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for arson at the Comet Ping Pong Restaurant in Northwest, and for attacking a Park Police Officer at the Washington Monument last year, announced Timothy J. Shea, United States Attorney for the District of Columbia; Ashan Benedict, Special Agent in Charge (SAC), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Peter Newsham, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD); Gregory Dean, Chief of the D.C. Fire Department; and Gregory T. Monahan, Acting Chief of the United States Park Police (USPP).
Jaselskis pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to one count of arson and one count of assault on a federal law enforcement officer on December 17, 2019. He was sentenced by the Honorable Judge Timothy Kelly.
“Arson is a serious crime, endangering firefighters who respond to the scene and the general public who are exposed to this danger, said U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Shea. “This defendant has also been convicted of assaulting a police officer, a crime we will not tolerate in the District of Columbia.”
According to the government’s evidence, on the evening of January 23, 2019, the defendant walked into the Comet Ping Pong restaurant in the 5300 block of Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C., carrying a bag containing lighter fluid. He walked to the back bar area and doused the curtains with lighter fluid and ignited them, causing a fire. As the flames burned up the curtains towards the ceiling, the defendant left the restaurant. A restaurant patron and two kitchen employees were able to extinguish the fire after the defendant departed the restaurant. The defendant was captured on video surveillance wearing a distinctive blue jacket with white sleeves and red trim.
Less than two weeks later, on Monday, February 4, 2019, United States Park Police officers encountered the defendant inside the fenced area at the Washington Monument. The defendant was wearing the distinctive blue jacket with white sleeves and red trim. When the officers asked the defendant to stand, he jumped up and began fighting officers. During the struggle, the defendant struck one of the officers in the nose, drawing blood. The officers were eventually able to detain the defendant. In addition to the bloody nose, the officer suffered a cut on his left hand, and scrapes to both legs.
The Comet Ping Pong Restaurant had previously been the target of an attack in 2016 when an individual entered the dining room with a rifle and opened fire.
In announcing the sentencing, U.S. Attorney Shea, SAC Benedict, Chief Newsham, Chief Dean, and Acting Chief Monahan commended the work of the MPD officers, ATF agents, and D.C. Fire Marshals who investigated the case. They also acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, including Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Floyd and Legal Assistant Kate Abrey.
Buffalo Man Convicted by Federal Jury Sentenced on Multiple Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Darryl M. Greene, 48, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted by a federal jury of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute, and distributing, 500 grams or more of cocaine, and two counts of attempting to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Misha Coulson, who handled the trial of the case, stated that on July 27, 2017, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) executed a search warrant on a suspicious package mailed from San Diego, California. The package was addressed to an associate of the defendant. Inside, inspectors discovered one kilogram of cocaine.
On July 28, 2017, USPIS and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted a controlled delivery of the package. A package of sham cocaine was delivered to the associate’s Kensington Avenue residence. Within five minutes of the package’s delivery, Greene arrived at the residence and departed with the package. He was arrested a short time later and released.
On August 3, 2017, the USPIS executed a search warrant on another suspicious package from San Diego, California, which was addressed to a recipient identified as “W. Greene” at 1631 Hertel Avenue in Buffalo. The defendant resided at that residence. The second package contained a ½ kilogram of cocaine, and the defendant was once again arrested.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, under the direction of Inspector-in-Charge Joseph W. Cronin, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ray Donovan.
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Brooklyn Man Sentenced for Breaking into Kingston Store and Stealing FirearmsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Latrell Davis, age 19, of Brooklyn, New York, was sentenced today to time served (10 months in prison), to be followed by 180 days of home confinement, for stealing two firearms from Safeshoot, LLC, a federally licensed firearms dealer in Kingston, New York.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and John B. Devito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also sentenced Davis to 3 years of supervised release, which is to begin with 180 days of home confinement.
Davis pled guilty on November 13, 2019. As part of his plea, Davis admitted that, on February 27, 2019, Davis and his co-conspirator entered Safeshoot by breaking an exterior window. Davis and his co-conspirator then pried open a glass display case, removed two firearms, and left Safeshoot with the firearms.
The case was investigated by the ATF and the Town of Ulster Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashlyn Miranda.
26 April 2020
Los Angeles Woman Convicted of Cocaine and Marijuana Trafficking and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Los Angeles woman was convicted on Thursday, by a federal jury sitting in Lexington, of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana, along with conspiracy to commit money laundering offenses.
After nine days of deliberation, following a 29-day trial, the jury convicted 41-year old Katharine E. Matthews of conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 100 kilograms or more of marijuana and conspiracy to commit money laundering offenses.
According to testimony at trial, Matthews partnered with Robert W. Carlson to move cocaine and marijuana, belonging to the Sinaloa Cartel, from California to East Coast cities including Lexington, Louisville, New York, Charlotte, Atlanta, and Miami, using private planes. Over the course of the conspiracy, Matthews moved thousands of kilograms of cocaine and over 100 kilograms of marijuana to these cities. She also brought millions of dollars from the East Coast back to California to be handed over to the cartel.
Matthew was indicted in October 2017. Her charges stemmed from a larger investigation into drug trafficking and money laundering activities that was precipitated by a drug seizure from a private plane that arrived, from Van Nuys Airport in Southern California, at Bluegrass Airport in Lexington, in April 2017
Before Matthews’s trial began, several other defendants involved in the conspiracy pleaded guilty. Carlson pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine in February 2018. In his plea agreement, Carlson admitted to conspiring with Isaac Basilio Rosas, Cedric Allen Oronce Fajardo, and others to transport and distribute drugs found on the plane that landed in Lexington in April 2017. Carlson also admitted to planning and organizing that trip. Carlson was sentenced to 200 months in prison and five years of supervised release in October 2019. Basilio Rosas pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine in January 2018. He was sentenced to 108 months in prison in May 2018. Oronce Fajardo pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine in July 2017. He is scheduled for sentencing later this year.
Two other defendants, Robert Earl Wallace and Kendra Michelle Caprice Tally also pleaded guilty for their roles in the drug conspiracy. In February 2020, Wallace pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute cocaine. Wallace, a private pilot, admitted in his plea agreement that he flew as many as ten trips for Carlson and his associates, where drugs and/or drug proceeds were moved to locations across the country. Wallace admitted that he did at least one of those trips after he learned the trips’ purpose and that that trip involved moving at least 80 kilograms of cocaine.
Tally, who was a passenger on a flight that landed in Lexington in April 2017, with cocaine and methamphetamine on the plane, pleaded guilty in February 2020 to the felony offense of lying to federal agents. She admitted in her plea agreement that she knew that there were controlled substances on the flight, but falsely told Homeland Security agents that she did not know the plane was carrying controlled substances. Tally was sentenced to a three-year term of probation.
Robert Chipperfield Jr., Nader Sarkhosh, and Torrey Ward, Matthews’ remaining co-defendants, were acquitted at trial.
“This investigation, and the resulting prosecutions, helped disrupt a major drug trafficking and money laundering organization operating across the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr. “The convictions are the result of hard work and dedication of the trial team and the investigators that brought this important matter to trial. We are also appreciative of the efforts of the men and women of the jury. They were asked to observe testimony, review evidence, and then ultimately deliberate in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, which undoubtedly added an additional level of difficulty. The Court undertook health safety measures to limit and minimize potential exposure to the virus, and the jurors faithfully discharged their duty. They bore that responsibility admirably. I thank the jurors for their important public service.”
U. S. Attorney Duncan; Steven L. Igyarto, Resident Agent in Charge, Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; and Rodney L. Brewer, Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, jointly made the announcement.
The Department of Homeland Security and the Kentucky State Police conducted the investigation, with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration. The United States was represented in this case by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dmitry Slavin, Roger West, and Will Moynahan.
Matthews will appear for sentencing on August 4, 2020. Wallace will appear for sentencing on June 16, 2020. Both face a maximum of life in prison. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal sentencing statutes before imposing a sentence.
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25 April 2020
May 1 Deadline for Victims to File Statements Before Sentencing in Atchison Clean Air Act CaseRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – Victims in the Atchison Clean Air Act case have until May 1 to file statements. Anyone who would like to submit a written victim impact statement for the court’s consideration can email those statements to [email protected]
A federal judge has set a May 27, 2020, hearing for the sentencing of Harcros Chemicals, Inc., and MGP Ingredients Inc., for violating the federal Clean Air Act when a cloud of toxic chlorine gas formed over Atchison, Kan., in 2016, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
The hearing is set for 1:30 p.m. in room 403 of the Frank Carlson Federal Building at 444 S.E. Quincy St. in Topeka before U.S. District Judge Daniel D. Crabtree.
“Many people were affected by the release of the gas in Atchison,” said U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister. “We know that 140 individuals including members of the public, first responders, employees of MGP Ingredients and Harcros Chemicals sought medical attention at the time of the incident.”
“I want everyone to be aware that the sentencing hearing will be open to the public,” McAllister continued.
Both companies have pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Air Act and each has agreed to pay a $1 million fine.
McAllister said that he wants to assure that anyone impacted by the incident is afforded the right to be reasonably heard and not to be excluded from court. Due to time constraints, it may be impractical for each victim to speak at the sentencing hearing. However, anyone who would like to submit a written victim impact statement for the court’s consideration, please email those statements to [email protected] .
More information about the case is available at https://www.justice.gov/usao-ks/victim-witness
24 April 2020
Warning: Potential Fraud Scams Surrounding SBA LoansRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The United States Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Small Business Administration warns Kentuckians to be alert about possible scams relating to the CARES Act. SBA’s Office of Inspector General has published a list of possible scams and fraud schemes to raise public awareness: https://www.sba.gov/document/report--sba-programs-scams-fraud-alerts.
U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman, Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Louisville Field Office, SBA OIG Eastern Region Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kupperbusch and Robert Coffey, SBA Kentucky Acting District Director, made the announcement today in an effort to prevent those in need from being victimized a second time by criminals using the program as an opportunity to commit fraud.
“Every dollar that these thieves steal is a dollar that’s not putting someone back to work or that’s failing to assist small businesses rebuild,” said U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “We will do our job in law enforcement but urge small business owners to use an abundance of caution to avoid becoming a victim.”
“Those seeking to profit from the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to exploit the opportunities presented to them,” said Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Louisville Field Office. “As we have witnessed with other types of COVID-19 related fraud, criminals are attempting to prey upon entities during their time of fear and anxiety. The FBI along with our partners are working every day to keep Americans safe during this unprecedented time.”
“Fraudsters prey upon those in vulnerable positions, and this is a critical time for our nation’s small businesses,” said SBA OIG’s Eastern Region Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kupperbusch. “SBA OIG and its law enforcement partners are actively working together to root out fraud in SBA’s programs and bring those responsible to justice. The public is encouraged to learn about potential fraud schemes and scams as a safeguard to being victimized.”
When the CARES Act was signed into law, the doors were opened for small businesses to access $349 billion in federal aid at a most crucial time for entrepreneurs that are balancing the health and safety of their families and themselves while operating their small business. Not only did small businesses take note of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), but, unfortunately, so did those with bad intentions
“With so much money involved, it is little wonder that hackers and others sought ways to defraud these desperate businesses at a most critical time,” said Robert Coffey, SBA Kentucky Acting District Director. “Entrepreneurs must be on guard against these attempts. The best defense is to exercise your business acumen when presented with offers, for example, if someone approaches you to help you get your funding faster by giving your bank account information.”
Entrepreneurs should remember that if anyone asks you for money, they are not legitimate, nor are emails that end in anything but “.gov”. Even if someone has some details about your loan request, do not fill in the blanks by providing information that you have already provided through the application process. A confidential, legitimate source has this information already. SBA does not reach out to initiate a loan.
If you have any doubt, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your nearest SBA office to ask. As you are working harder than ever to preserve your business and its employees amid the Coronavirus pandemic, do not allow bad actors to hinder your efforts.
If you have questions, please refer to the official SBA website where most of your questions can be answered. The address is: www.sba.gov and stay up to date on the most current information by following Kentucky SBA on Twitter @SBA_Kentucky.
You are encouraged to report fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement, or misconduct involving SBA programs to the SBA OIG hotline at (800) 767-0385, or online at: https://sbax.sba.gov/oigcss/.
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United States Attorney William M. McSwain Provides Information about Current Community ResourcesRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain released a compilation of government and legal resources today that are available to the Philadelphia community during the coronavirus pandemic. This list includes updated information for legal services organizations, as well as other resources provided by both the state and federal government.
“My Office is committed to providing our District with up-to-date information to help the community through this unprecedented time,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “We have all been forced to adjust to major changes in our daily lives, and we hope that these legal and governmental resources can make that process a little easier for many.”
The below information is available and accurate as of April 24, 2020.
Legal Resources
The following organizations are dedicated to providing free legal assistance to members of the Philadelphia community regarding civil issues. This includes, but is not limited to, homeownership, unemployment, healthcare, and family advocacy. None of the following organizations is affiliated with the Department of Justice. For more detailed information on a specific organization, please visit the website listed below.
Community Legal Services (CLS) (www.clsphila.org)
- Walk-in Intakes: CLOSED until further notice.
- Telephone Intakes: OPEN. For all CLS Units, call (215) 981-3700 and press the option for the relevant issue (for example, to reach the Employment Unit, Press 7).
Philadelphia Legal Assistance (www.philalegal.org)
- Walk-in intakes CLOSED until April 30, 2020.
- Telephone and Online Intakes: OPEN.
- Telephone Intake: (215) 981-3800 (Monday-Thursday: 9:30 a.m. to noon)
- Family Law Intake: (215) 981-3838 (Monday-Thursday: 9:30 a.m. to noon)
- Unemployment Compensation Application Service Hotline: (215) 999-6910 (Monday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Tuesday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.;
Wednesday & Thursday: 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
SeniorLAW Center (www.seniorlawcenter.org)- Walk-in Intakes: CLOSED until further notice.
- Telephone Intakes: OPEN.
- Philadelphia: (215) 988-1242
- Bucks/Montgomery: (610) 910-0210
- Delaware/Chester: (610) 910-0215
- Statewide: 1 (877) 727-7529
Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity (PLSE) (www.plsephilly.org)- PLSE is in the process of continuing its operations remotely. For the most current information, please email [email protected] or call (267) 519-5323.
Other Government Resources
This list contains updates on city government services, state and federal courts, and some federal government departments. For more detailed information on a specific organization, please visit the website listed below.
City of Philadelphia (www.phila.gov)
- All Philadelphia city government buildings are CLOSED to the public.
- Information regarding access to city services can be found here.
- There is no scheduled interruption to trash services. Starting April 6, 2020, recycling will be collected every other week.
- Philadelphia Free Libraries are CLOSED, but the public can access online resources here.
- PennDOT Centers: All PennDOT Driver’s License and Photo License Centers are CLOSED until further notice. License expirations are extended to May 31, 2020. For more information, please visit www.penndot.gov.
- PA Turnpike: Cash payments are temporarily suspended.
- SEPTA: Bus, subway, and regional rail services are limited. Information on schedules and open routes, can be found here.
- Parks & Recreation: Philadelphia Parks & Recreation buildings, playgrounds, athletic courts, and restrooms are CLOSED. This includes all rec centers, older adult centers, environmental centers, ice rinks, and the Organic Recycling Center. Some older adult centers are open to provide food. Please find that information here.
Social Security Administration (www.ssa.gov/onlineservices/)
- All Social Security Administration offices are CLOSED until further notice.
- All online and phone services are still available. Please call 1 (800) 772-1213 or visit the website for online services. Hours for online services are the following: Weekdays: 5 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturday: 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday: 8 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
IRS (www.irs.gov)
- The income tax filing deadline has been EXTENDED until July 15, 2020.
United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania
- Physical access to federal courthouses in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania is RESTRICTED, although certain proceedings are still taking place.
- All orders from the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania concerning the coronavirus pandemic can be found here.
United States Bureau of Prisons (BOP) (www.bop.gov)
- The United States Bureau of Prisons has suspended all social and legal in-person visitation.
- For more information on the BOP’s modified operations during the pandemic, please visit their coronavirus overview page found here.
First Judicial District of Pennsylvania (www.courts.phila.gov)
- The First Judicial District is currently CLOSED until May 1, 2020, although certain proceedings are still taking place.
- All orders from the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania concerning the coronavirus pandemic can be found here.
Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (www.cor.pa.gov)
- The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections has suspended all in-person visitation to state prisons. They now offer video visitation.
If you or someone you know has been the target or victim of a fraud scheme related to the coronavirus, please report the incident to the national hotline at The National Center for Disaster Fraud at 1-866-720-5721 or at [email protected].U.S. Attorney Asks Public to Report Housing-Related Sexual HarassmentRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: U.S. Attorney Halsey B. Frank is asking Mainers who have been the victim of housing-related sexual harassment resulting from the current COVID-19 crisis to report such practices to the Department of Justice.
“While the vast majority of landlords have been incredibly understanding and accommodating to their tenants during this crisis,” said U.S. Attorney Frank, “there have been reports of some landlords who have responded to requests to defer rent payments with demands for sexual favors and other unwelcome sexual conduct. This behavior is reprehensible and will not be tolerated. The Attorney General has asked all U.S. Attorneys to investigate reports of housing-related sexual harassment resulting from the current crisis, and my office and the Department of Justice are ready to do whatever we can to stop this predatory behavior.”
In October 2017, the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice launched an initiative to combat sexual harassment in housing. Since launching the initiative, the Department has filed 14 lawsuits alleging a pattern or practice of sexual harassment in housing. Recently, for example, the Department settled a sexual harassment lawsuit against the owners and managers of Kansas rental properties alleging that one of the owners sexually harassed numerous tenants. The owners agreed to pay $160,000 in damages and civil penalties to resolve the lawsuit.
Individuals who believe they may have been victims of sexual harassment in housing can call the DOJ Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative at 1-844-380-6178, or send an email to [email protected], describing your experience or the experience of someone you know.
Two men arrested and charged with bank theftRead the Press Release
HONOLULU, Hawaii – Ameer A. Davis, 23, of Kaneohe, Hawaii, was charged on April 20, 2020 by federal complaint with bank theft as an agent of, or as a person connected in a capacity with a federally insured bank. On April 23, 2020, Landon L. Williams, 19, of Ft. Shafter, Hawaii, was charged by federal complaint with conspiring with Davis in the theft.
U.S. Attorney Kenji M. Price for the District of Hawaii announced that the complaints allege that on February 3, 2020, Davis was an employee of Pacific Courier, Inc. (PCI), an armored services provider. PCI had a contract to use its armored vans to transport money under the care, custody, and control of First Hawaiian Bank (FHB), whose deposits are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. On February 3, the PCI armored van in which Davis was riding parked at the Ala Moana Shopping Center. Davis and all other occupants got out of the armored van, leaving it unattended. Around 10:45 a.m., Williams and another individual exited a vehicle parked near the PCI armored van wearing Spiderman masks. Using a key left for them by Davis, they opened a side door of the PCI armored van and removed bags containing approximately $400,000 in federally insured funds.
The charges in these complaints are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
These cases are being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Honolulu Police Department. They are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marshall H. Silverberg.
Two San Francisco Women Charged with Robbery Affecting Interstate Commerce in Alleged Scheme to Steal Merchandise While Threatening to Spread COVID-19Read the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California unsealed charges today in a criminal complaint charging Carmelita Barela and Rosetta Shabazz with committing robbery affecting interstate commerce in connection with a scheme to steal merchandise from a Walgreens while claiming to have COVID-19, announced United States Attorney David L. Anderson and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge John F. Bennett.
“It is an unfortunate reality that there will be those in our community who try to take advantage of the current pandemic to prey on people’s fear of contracting COVID-19,” said U.S. Attorney Anderson. “While many in our community can remain safe by sheltering in place, store managers and clerks are putting themselves out into the world for our benefit. They don’t deserve to be threatened and robbed. Everyone suffers from a crime like this.”
“In a time when our communities have come together to be responsible and stay safe, the FBI will simply not tolerate the criminal actions of the few individuals who use fear and intimidation to endanger others,” said Special Agent in Charge Bennett. “We must protect the front-line service workers who are providing the public with the critical supplies we all need.”
According to the complaint, on April 6, 2020, Barela, 36, and Shabazz, 32, both of San Francisco, entered a Walgreens near San Francisco’s Civic Center with empty bags and without wearing masks. After the store manager offered assistance, Shabazz allegedly began to cough without covering her mouth. The store manager asked Shabazz to leave the store if she was sick. Instead, Shabazz walked over to Barela and both defendants began to cough audibly while taking merchandise off the shelves and placing it into their bags. The manager told the defendants to leave the store, to which they responded by saying, “We have COVID.” The defendants continued to cough audibly and eventually left the store without paying for the merchandise they placed into their bags.
The defendants are charged with robbery affecting interstate commerce (Hobbs Act Robbery), in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951. A complaint merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendants each face a maximum sentence of 20 years of prison and a $250,000 fine. In addition, the court may order restitution and an additional term of supervised release. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
Barela and Shabazz were arrested on April 23, 2020. Shabazz made her initial appearance this morning before Magistrate Judge Kandis Westmore and was released to home confinement. Her next appearance is scheduled for April 28, 2020, before Judge Westmore, for a bond hearing. Barela’s next appearance is scheduled for April 27, 2020, before Magistrate Judge Thomas Hixson for an initial appearance.
Assistant United States Attorney Abraham Fine is prosecuting the case with assistance from Margoth Turcios. The prosecution is a result of an investigation by the FBI.
Trucker charged with bringing nearly $2M to RGVRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 51-year-old man is set to appear in federal court on charges of money laundering and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Edgardo Serrano, New Boston, Michigan, will make an appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ignacio Torteya III at 10:30 a.m. today.
The criminal complaint charging Serrano was filed April 18. It alleges that authorities had searched a mechanics shop in Hidalgo April 17, which resulted in the discovery of $1.7 million hidden in a commercial tractor. The investigation revealed Serrano had been driving the vehicle, according to the charges.
The complaint further alleges Serrano was in the Rio Grande Valley to pick up a load of carrots, but it appeared to be a cover for what was actually a cocaine shipment destined for Florida.
The hidden cash was allegedly the proceeds of the illegal narcotics sales in Florida.
If convicted, Serrano faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Betancourt is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Top Federal and State Prosecutors Form Delaware COVID-19 Anti-Fraud CoalitionRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – Today, United States Attorney David C. Weiss and Delaware Attorney General Kathleen Jennings announced the formation of a new Coronavirus (COVID-19) Anti-Fraud Coalition, aimed at better protecting the citizens of Delaware from criminal and civil fraud arising from the pandemic. The Coalition is comprised of local, state and federal agencies, investigators and prosecutors with significant experience in handling complaints and cases related to consumer fraud, financial fraud, heath care fraud, and cybercrime. Together, the Coalition will share information and resources to monitor, identify and investigate misconduct to protect the people of Delaware from those exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic for their own advantage.
Agencies participating in the Coalition include:
- Delaware Department of Justice
- United States Attorney’s Office
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations
- U.S. Small Business Administration-Office of Inspector General
- U.S. Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General
- Delaware Department of Health & Social Services
- Delaware Office of Management & Budget
- Delaware Department of Transportation
- Delaware Department of Education
- Delaware Department of Insurance
- Delaware Department of Finance
- Delaware Department of Labor
- Delaware Auditor of Accounts
- Delaware State Police
- New Castle County
Participating agencies will take information, tips and complaints from the public, as well as other local law enforcement agencies seeking the Coalition’s assistance.
“Sadly, criminals look to take advantage of people, regardless of the circumstances,” said David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware. “But the people of Delaware can rest assured that we will be relentless in bringing to justice those seeking to illegally profit from this crisis. If you believe you are the victim of a scam, or have been contacted by someone falsely claiming to be a representative of the government, please contact the Coalition at one of the below email addresses immediately. I want to thank our local and state partners for their commitment to combating fraud and protecting Delawareans. By working together, we are more fully able to identify, investigate, and prosecute these criminal acts of fraud related to the COVID-19 pandemic. In these challenging times, I am grateful for this type of collaboration, which represents the best of public service.”
“This pandemic is ripe for exploitation by scammers,” said Attorney General Jennings. “The Delaware Department of Justice and its Fraud Division works each day to educate consumers, prevent fraud, and bring scammers to justice—but our work will never be done as long as consumers continue to be preyed upon by those who profit shamelessly off of their fears and anxiety. Our collaboration with the U.S. Attorney’s Office is the latest chapter in a longstanding record of partnership, and in this public health and economic crisis it has never been more important for everyone at the federal, state, and local level to collaborate on the people’s behalf.”
Be on the lookout for and be wary of potential COVID-19 scams and abuses. Any information, complaints, or concerns can be reported to the Coalition by email to [email protected] or [email protected]. Delawareans who may have been scammed can also reach out to the Attorney General's consumer protection hotline at (800) 220-5424. In addition, you can also contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) by hotline (1-866-720-5721) or to the NCDF e-mail address [email protected].
Common scams and frauds include:
- Economic Impact Payment (Stimulus Check): Scammers pretend to be government officials offering false economic impact payments (stimulus checks) in order to obtain personal identifying information including social security and bank account numbers.
- Diagnosis Testing Scams: Scammers offer fake COVID-19 testing kits, particularly door-to-door.
- Treatment/Cure Scams: Scammers offer fake or unproven treatment regimens that are particularly dangerous because they have the potential to do more harm than good.
- Charity Scams: Virtually every time there is a disaster or emergency, scammers set up fake charities to solicit donations that they then spend on themselves.
- Overinflated prices: The Coalition will use every tool available to hold sellers accountable who unlawfully use the COVID-19 pandemic to unreasonably inflate prices.
- Investment Scams: Scammers make false claims about tests, cures and other matters related to COVID-19 in order to entice victims to make investment decisions based on those false claims that allow the scammer to steal money and assets from Delawareans.
- Cyber Scams: Scammers send victims emails related to COVID-19 that appear to be from the victims’ banks, health care providers, the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and others for the purpose of obtaining the victims’ personal identifying information and exploiting it for the scammers’ own benefit.
- App Scams: Scammers are creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.
- Insurance, Workers’ Compensation and Medicaid Fraud: Businesses and government agencies are not immune to scams. They should also be vigilant to ensure scammers do not take advantage of their businesses or customers during this pandemic.
- Scams specifically targeted at seniors: Seniors are more vulnerable than ever to common scams like the Grandparent Scam and Government Imposter Scams. Consumers receiving a call or any contact claiming that loved ones are in danger or hurt, that they owe money and failure to pay will result in their arrest or other harm, or that their benefits are in jeopardy, do not act. Contact your loved ones or the purported agency using known, trusted contact information not sourced from the suspicious communication.
Surgeon Agrees to Pay $1.75 Million to Resolve Allegations that He Accepted Kickbacks from SpineFrontierRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced today that Dr. Jeffrey R. Carlson of Newport News, VA has agreed to pay $1.75 million to resolve allegations that he accepted kickbacks from SpineFrontier, Inc., a Massachusetts-based medical device manufacturer.
Dr. Carlson, an orthopedic surgeon, is the sixth surgeon who has agreed to settle with the government relating to his interactions with SpineFrontier. In March, the government filed a False Claims Act complaint against SpineFrontier and its executives, alleging that SpineFrontier paid kickbacks to spine surgeons itself and through a sham third-party entity, Impartial Medical Experts, LLC, which was owned and controlled by SpineFrontier’s founder and CEO, Kingsley R. Chin.
As part of the settlement agreement announced today, the government contends that Dr. Carlson received kickbacks in the form of sham consulting fees that he submitted through Impartial Medical Experts. Under the settlement agreement, Dr. Carlson admits that he estimated his purported consulting hours based on the number of times he used a SpineFrontier product in a given month, as opposed to tracking actual time he spent consulting. Dr. Carlson further admits that he cannot document the consulting hours he submitted for payment to SpineFrontier and Impartial Medical Experts. In addition, Dr. Carlson sought and received consulting payments from SpineFrontier for time he spent during his surgical procedures, for which Medicare and other federal health care programs were already paying him.
Dr. Carlson also admits to accepting free meals from SpineFrontier, for himself and his surgical staff, on almost every day that he performed a surgical procedure with a SpineFrontier product. In total, SpineFrontier provided Dr. Carlson and his staff meals that cost thousands of dollars.
“This settlement continues our commitment to ensuring that doctors choose medical products solely on the basis of what is best for the patient, and not what is best for the surgeon’s pockets. For their part, manufacturers must play by the rules and compete on a level playing field,” said United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling. “We will investigate any doctor, like Dr. Carlson, who accepts money from a device manufacturer simply for using that company’s products.”
“By accepting kickbacks in the form of sham consulting fees, along with thousands of dollars in free meals, Dr. Jeffrey Carlson not only put his own financial well-being ahead of his patients, but he also cheated taxpayers who were footing the bill for his surgical procedures,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Today’s settlement illustrates the FBI’s continued commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to root out those trying to undermine our healthcare system.”
“Sham consulting arrangements seek to undermine the integrity of the medical decision-making process,” said Phillip M. Coyne, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “Patients in government healthcare programs, and the taxpayers funding these programs, expect surgeons to make decisions based on the best interest of their patients without the cloud of improper financial incentives. Today’s settlement sends a clear message that these types of financial arrangements will not be tolerated.”
Chris Algieri, Special Agent in Charge, VA Office of Inspector General, stated “The Veterans Choice Program allows Veterans to receive care from a community provider. The program is undermined when providers put their financial interests ahead of our nation’s Veterans. VA OIG will continue working with agency partners to ensure VA healthcare programs are protected.”
“We applaud the Department of Justice for addressing the issue of fraudulent activity against not only the military patient population, but also the American public at large,” said Army Lt. Gen. Ronald Place, Director of the Defense Health Agency. “We will continue working together with federal, state, and local authorities to pursue any and all who would seek to take advantage of the health care needs of our people for their personal gain.”
U.S. Attorney Lelling, FBI Boston SAC Bonavolonta, HHS-OIG SAC Coyne, VA OIG SAC Algieri, and DHA Director Army Lt. Gen. Place made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Abraham R. George, David J. Derusha, Patrick M. Callahan and Steven T. Sharobem of Lelling’s Office handled the investigation.
Sturgis Man Sentenced on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sturgis, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on April 17, 2020, by Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court Judge.
Sean Gertsch, age 28, was sentenced to 3 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stemmed from an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2019 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting internet predators.
The investigation was conducted by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Gertsch was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Second Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearms in Hospital Ground Area of St. ThomasRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced that a complaint has been filed charging Akeem Julien with Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number, Possession of a Firearm within a school zone and Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm within the Territory of the Virgin Islands.
According to the affidavit filed in this case, on April 8, 2020 a video from a home surveillance camera located in the Hospital Grounds area of St. Thomas captured Julien climbing over a railing and onto a patio in view of the camera recording the video. Julien was in possession of a black bag. Julien was observed in the video picking up a handgun and placing it inside a black bag in his possession. This black bag was found later in a nearby residence, and contained an AK-type 7.62mm pistol with an obliterated serial number; a Glock .45 caliber handgun and a Glock 10mm; and multiple magazines with various ammunition. The Memorial Moravian Elementary School is located within 1,000 feet of the residence where the video surveillance was recorded. Julien does not have a license to carry firearms within the Territory of the Virgin Islands.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kyle Payne, Juan Albino and Everard Potter.
A complaint is merely a charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
National Crime Victim's Rights Week Gartherings Cancelled Due to COVID-19, USAO MDGA Honors Victims VirtuallyRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services. This year’s observance ends on Saturday, April 25. The theme is “Seek Justice | Ensure Victims’ Rights | Inspire Hope.”
During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies traditionally host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. Traditional events were cancelled in the Middle District of Georgia due to COVID-19 sheltering-in-place restrictions. This year, many communities across the country are organizing virtual gatherings and online public awareness campaigns. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of Georgia is participating in an online public awareness campaign on Twitter.
“Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need. We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”
“Because of the current restrictions due to the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, annual victim’s rights gatherings are cancelled. But, I want victims to know that protecting and seeking justice on their behalf will never cease, and is, in fact, our daily mission,” said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District. “I join Attorney General Barr in commending the victim advocates and public safety professionals who devote themselves to supporting and serving crime victims.”
“While we have made tremendous progress driving down crime and violence across the country, far too many Americans continue to suffer the pain and loss of criminal victimization,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs. “This week, we stand by these survivors and their families, and we pledge our ongoing support to the countless men and women who serve them with such extraordinary skill and compassion.”
Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims’ rights, needs, and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. President Trump and his administration have implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and victim compensation.
Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey. The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance programs and victim compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory. Funds for these programs come from the Crime Victims Fund, which is made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.
This year, the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when we can honor this year’s award recipients in person. During the ceremony, OVC will present awards recognizing individuals and organizations from across the nation for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims. The awardees will be selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy, and victim services. Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.
For more information on how to create your own public campaigns to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights online and at events throughout the year, please visit: https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Murfreesboro, Tennessee Woman Sentenced to 180 Months for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Takila Shauntel Carpenter, age 34, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment, and 5 years of supervised release for Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A). The charges arose from an investigation by the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”).
The Indictment alleged that on or about September 19, 2019, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant knowingly and intentionally possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Each year methamphetamine cuts short the lives of hundreds of Oklahomans and thousands more across the Nation. As the death toll continues to rise, drug cartels continue to flood our country with this poison. I commend the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office and HSI for this multi-jurisdictional investigation. Their investigation and the resulting prosecution prevented kilograms of methamphetamine from distribution into communities and has put an end to this defendant’s role in trafficking drugs.”
“Methamphetamine ravages and negatively impacts societies across this nation, and individuals involved in the trafficking of this dangerous drug are contributing to the demise of countless lives and devastation of our communities,” said Ryan L. Spradlin, special agent in charge of HSI Dallas. “Every time we put a meth pusher behind bars, we’re protecting our citizens and that’s a win for public safety.”
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States at the sentencing hearing.Missoula meth distributor sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Missoula woman who admitted to distributing meth on behalf of another person was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Aurora Elizabeth Quinn, 37, pleaded guilty in December to distribution of meth.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
In court documents filed in the case, the prosecution said that Quinn, acting on behalf of another person, referred to as John Doe, distributed about 12 grams of meth to a confidential source in May 2019. Before the deal, the confidential source had talked to John Doe, who indicated that Quinn would have the drugs. The source called Quinn, the two arranged to meet and the source paid Quinn $500 for a package of meth.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Elliott prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI and the Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a U.S. Department of Justice initiative to reduce violent crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, violent crime in Montana increased by 36% from 2013 to 2018. Through PSN, federal, tribal, state and local law enforcement partners in Montana focus on violent crime driven by methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses and violent offenders with outstanding warrants.
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Man Sentenced for Threatening to Kill the PresidentRead the Press Release
A man who threatened to assassinate the President has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.
Mickael Gedlu, 36, pleaded guilty in December to making threats against the commander-in-chief. Appearing from the Federal Correction Institution in Seagoville, Texas, he was sentenced today via video teleconference by Chief U.S. District Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn.
According to plea papers, Mr. Gedlu admitted he threatened the President’s life on social media, stating on YouTube: “I'm waiting for Trump to visit Dallas before I attempt to assassinate him.”
During court proceedings, prosecutors noted that on May 31, 2018, Mr. Gedlu was observed across the street from Dallas’ Adolphus Hotel, just 30 minutes before the President arrived there for a fundraiser. Dallas police officers, who noticed Mr. Gedlu holding a “Kill Trump” sign, detained him as he screamed, “kill the President.”
Dallas police officers, who noticed Mr. Gedlu holding a “Kill Trump” sign, detained him as he screamed, “kill the President.”
The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Dallas and Richardson Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebekah Ricketts prosecuted the case.
Man and Woman Charged with Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that James Oliver Young, 51, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and production of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, and a maximum of life. In addition, Rebecca Wilson, 30, also of Rochester, NY, was also charged with production of child pornography in a separate complaint. Wilson faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 30 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that the according to the complaints filed against Young and Wilson, on April 17, 2020, the New York State Police received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that an “Ollie Young” was communicating with a 10-year-old female, Minor Victim (MV1), in Rochester through private messages on Facebook. It appeared that “Ollie Young” was attempting to entice MV1 to produce and send apparent child exploitation images as well as engage in sexual activity. “Ollie Young” was later identified as defendant Young. Subsequent investigation determined that Young and Wilson allegedly had sexual relations with MV1 on multiple occasions.
On April 18, 2020, New York State Police executed a search warrant and seized multiple devices, including two cell phones belonging to Wilson. Investigators located multiple videos depicting child pornography involving a five-year-old boy, Minor Victim 2 (MV2).
The defendants made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and are being detained.
The complaints are the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eric Laughton, and Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Gary Loeffert.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Long Island Man Charged Under Defense Production Act with Hoarding and Price-Gouging of Scarce Personal Protective EquipmentRead the Press Release
A criminal complaint was filed today in federal court in Central Islip charging Amardeep Singh with violating the Defense Production Act of 1950 by hoarding personal protective equipment (“PPE”) at a warehouse in Brentwood, New York, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and price-gouging customers of his retail store in Plainview, New York. If convicted, Singh faces up to one year in prison.
Richard P. Donoghue, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Craig Carpenito, head of the Department of Justice’s nationwide COVID-19 Hoarding and Price Gouging Task Force, and Philip R. Bartlett, Inspector-in-Charge, United States Postal Inspection Service, New York Division (USPIS), announced the filing of the complaint
“As charged in the complaint, Singh’s amassing of critical personal protective equipment during a public health crisis and reselling at huge markups places him squarely in the cross-hairs of law enforcement armed with the Defense Production Act,” stated United States Attorney Donoghue. “This Office is working tirelessly in coordination with the COVID-19 Hoarding and Price Gouging Task Force to prevent a pandemic of greed by profiteers.”
“The criminal complaint describes a defendant who allegedly saw the devastating COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to make illegal profits on needed personal protective equipment,” stated Carpenito. “The Department of Justice and its partners will intervene whenever profiteers and scammers break the law by capitalizing on the public’s fear to enrich themselves.”
“The Coronavirus has created challenging times for all Americans, especially those living in the New York metropolitan area,” stated USPIS Inspector-in-Charge Bartlett. “During a crisis of this magnitude, we must come together as a country to fight this common enemy. Unfortunately, Mr. Singh allegedly chose to use this opportunity to make money by hoarding and price gouging PPE. The conduct charged in the complaint is reprehensible and against our most fundamental American values.”
On March 18, 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, President Donald Trump issued Executive Order 13909 invoking the Defense Production Act making it illegal to acquire medical supplies and devices designated by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) as scarce in order to hoard them or sell them for excessive prices.
According to the complaint, beginning in mid-March 2020, Singh — who operates a retail store selling sneakers and apparel — began accumulating that merchandise at his store and a nearby warehouse. At the same time, he set aside a section of his store for so-called “COVID-19 Essentials,” which he then sold to the public at inflated prices, including but not limited to N-95 filtering face piece respirators, PPE face masks, PPE surgical masks, PPE face shields, PPE gloves, PPE coveralls, medical gowns and clinical-grade sanitizing and disinfecting products.
Between March 25, 2020 and April 8, 2020, Singh allegedly received deliveries at his retail store and warehouse of 40 shipments of disposable face masks weighing more than 1.6 tons, 14 shipments of disposable surgical gowns weighing more than 2.2 tons, six shipments of hand sanitizer weighing more than 1.8 tons and seven shipments of digital thermometers weighing approximately 253 pounds. These and other items — some of which had been officially designated as scarce — were advertised and sold at Singh’s retail store at prices far in excess of prevailing market prices. For example, records obtained during a judicially-authorized search of the store indicate that three-ply disposable face masks that Singh purchased for a per-unit price of $0.07 were resold by Singh for a per-unit price of $1.00 — a markup of approximately 1,328 percent. The seized records also reveal that Singh completed bulk sales at inflated prices to organizations serving vulnerable senior citizens and children battling the virus.
On April 14, 2020, Postal Inspectors executed a search warrant at Singh’s retail store and a consensual search of the warehouse and seized 23 pallets containing more than 100,000 face masks, 10,000 surgical gowns, nearly 2,500 full-body isolation suits and more than 500,000 pairs of disposable gloves.
The charges in the complaint are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Attorney General William P. Barr created the COVID-19 Hoarding and Price Gouging Task Force, led by Craig Carpenito, United States Attorney for District of New Jersey, who is coordinating efforts with the Antitrust Division and U.S. Attorneys across the country wherever illegal activity involving protective personal equipment occurs. The Secretary of Health and Human Services has issued a Notice designating categories of health and medical supplies that must not be hoarded or sold for exorbitant prices.
Please report COVID-19 fraud, hoarding or price-gouging to the National Center for Disaster Fraud’s National Hotline at (866) 720-5721, or e-mail: [email protected].
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Long Island Criminal Division, with assistance from the Department of Justice’s Hoarding and Price-Gouging Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Bagnuola is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
AMARDEEP SINGH (also known as “Bobby Singh” and “Bobby Sidana”)
Age: 45
Woodbury, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No.: 20-MJ-326
Kingston Man Sentenced to Time Served for Theft of MailRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Dallas Mitchell Duflot, age 24, of Kingston, Oklahoma was sentenced to credit for time served, and 2 years of supervised release for Theft Of Mail, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1708. The charges arose from an investigation by the Madill Police Department, the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The Indictment alleged that on December 25, 2019, the defendant stole and took mail from an authorized mailbox or mail depository.
United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester said, “Theft of mail is not only a property crime. When someone steals mail from another’s mailbox, it is an attack against the Postal Service, a government institution we trust, rely and depend upon daily. The swift action by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service along with its local law enforcement partners put an abrupt end to the defendant’s conduct, prevented further harm to his victims, and allows for continued faith in our Postal Service.”
“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will always pursue those who steal or misuse the U.S. Mail; we want the public to maintain confidence in the Postal Service,” said D. Glen Henderson, Acting Inspector in Charge of the Fort Worth Division. “This prosecution represents the partnerships we want to foster, starting with engaged community members all the way to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. By working together, we can reduce these types of crime and bring offenders to justice.”
The Honorable Ronald A. White, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris represented the United States at the sentencing hearing.Justice Department Secures Denaturalization of Woman Who Fraudulently Obtained Green Card and U.S. CitizenshipRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A federal judge ruled yesterday to revoke the U.S. citizenship of a Haitian national, who resides in Randolph, Mass., for fraudulently obtaining a green card and U.S. citizenship.
In an Order handed down yesterday, U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young held that Myrlene Charles procured her U.S. citizenship unlawfully by concealing and misrepresenting material facts while applying for immigration benefits. The Court’s Order was based, in part, on false statements that the defendant made while applying for a green card and citizenship. Such statements included that she was single, that she had never used other names, and that she had never been ordered removed from the United States.
During a January 2020 trial, the evidence established that the defendant used a photo-switched passport to enter the country in 1990 under the name “Mimose Delphonse;” unsuccessfully applied for asylum and was ordered deported under the names “Iviarta Dastino” and “Ivierta Dastino” in the 1990s; and subsequently concealed such events when she applied for a green card in 1996 and for citizenship in 2005 as “Myrlene Charles.” The defendant also hid the fact that she was married in 1996 when she applied for a green card under a category reserved for unmarried people.
The government learned of the defendant’s use of multiple identities and immigration fraud through advancing technology in fingerprint analysis. This analysis allowed the government to digitize ink fingerprints taken when the defendant entered the country under her first claimed identity using a fraudulently photo-switched passport. The government matched those fingerprints with electronic fingerprints taken years later when defendant used her third claimed identity during her naturalization proceedings.
“U.S citizenship is a privilege and the ultimate benefit that can be conferred in our immigration system,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew E. Lelling. “Here, the defendant repeatedly undermined the integrity of our immigration laws through the use of significant, ongoing false statements about her true identity. People cannot defraud the immigration system, and claim the benefits of that system, at the same time.”
U.S. Attorney Lelling and Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Civil Division Joseph (Jody) H. Hunt made the announcement today. This case was investigated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Justice Department’s Civil Division’s Office of Immigration Litigation, District Court Section National Security and Affirmative Litigation Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Annapurna Balakrishna of Lelling’s Civil Division and Deputy Chief Kathleen Connolly and Trial Attorney Steven Platt of the Justice Department handled the case.
Justice Department Recognizes Anniversary of Buy American and Hire American Executive Order by Reaffirming its Commitment to Fight Discrimination Against U.S. WorkersRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice recognized the third anniversary of the President’s Buy American and Hire American (BAHA) Executive Order, which directs federal agencies to protect U.S. workers’ jobs from employers that abuse temporary work visa programs.
“On this anniversary, the Department of Justice reaffirms its commitment to protect U.S. workers from discrimination,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “Our message to workers is clear: if companies deny you employment by illegally preferring temporary visa holders over U.S. workers, the Department of Justice will hold them accountable. This is especially important at a time when more U.S. workers may be looking for employment as a result of the economic impact of COVID-19.”
Consistent with the BAHA Executive Order, the Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER) of the Department’s Civil Rights Division launched the Protecting U.S. Workers Initiative in 2017. Through this initiative, the department targets, investigates, and brings enforcement actions against employers that intentionally discriminate against U.S. workers due to a preference for temporary visa workers. IER has reached numerous settlements under this initiative, and employers have distributed or agreed to pay a combined total of more than $1.2 million in back pay to affected U.S. workers and civil penalties to the United States. These settlements involve employers that discriminated in their use of the H-1B, H-2A, and H-2B visa programs. For example, last month IER reached a settlement with a Maryland construction firm, resolving claims that the company violated the law by preferring H-2B visa holders over qualified U.S. workers.
The department also has increased its collaboration with federal partners under the Protecting U.S. Workers Initiative to increase information sharing, promote discrimination referrals, and improve efforts to target wrongdoers. The department has entered into or expanded existing partnerships with the Department of Labor, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of State.
Workers and their advocates can contact IER for information on protections under the law. Workers can call IER’s worker hotline at 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired) to get information on rights under the law IER enforces or to report discrimination. IER offers free webinars for workers and their advocates on protections from discrimination under the law that IER enforces. In addition, applicants or employees who believe they were subjected to discrimination based on their citizenship, immigration status, or national origin in hiring, firing, or recruitment or referral for a fee; or discrimination in the employment eligibility verification process (Form I-9 and E-Verify) based on their citizenship, immigration status, or national origin; or retaliation can file a charge.
Under the initiative, IER has also published materials to educate the public about discrimination against U.S. workers, including Information for Employers About Citizenship Status Discrimination and Best Practices for Recruiting and Hiring Workers. Employers can call IER’s employer hotline at 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired) for information on how to avoid unlawful discrimination. Finally, IER offers free webinars for employers to learn more about the anti-discrimination law that IER enforces.
Callers to IER’s hotlines can remain anonymous and language services are available. More information is available on IER’s English and Spanish websites. Subscribe to GovDelivery to receive updates from IER.
Justice Department Commemorates Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention MonthRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice is joining advocates, public safety and public health professionals, and communities across the country in commemorating April as National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. President Trump has called on all Americans “to support survivors of sexual assault and work together to prevent these crimes in their communities.”
“Sexual violence turns victims’ lives upside down, exacting a heavy toll on their emotional, mental and physical health,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs (OJP). “Recovery requires significant time and effort, and we are committed to helping them move successfully from victims to survivors.”
“Sexual violence is multifaceted and is often hidden from public view,” said Laura L. Rogers, Acting Director of the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). “While there is much to be done still, I believe the positive shift in the way we approach the topic of sexual violence is, in part, due to the impact of the work of so many in the field.”
Research from the Bureau of Justice Statistics’ 2018 National Crime Victimization Survey found 37 percent of the total violent victimizations in 2018 were identified as rape or sexual assault. The survey estimates that in 2018, some 734,630 people in the U.S. were victims of rape or sexual assault.
The Justice Department is working on many fronts to prevent sexual assault and to bring justice and healing to sexual assault survivors. OJP, OVW, and the department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) have dedicated substantial resources to helping victims and have made considerable investments in technology, research, and data aimed at addressing the problem. Through OJP’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) victim assistance formula funding, administered by the states and territories, hundreds of thousands of victims of sexual assault receive services every year. Since its inception, OVW has funded over $8.1 billion to support programs that are targeting domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking.
The Justice Department works throughout the year to protect and serve victims of sexual assault. Some of our programs include the following:
- Last year, OJP's OVC awarded $15 million to improve access to forensic examinations by Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners through telehealth technology.
- OVC is making more than $3 million available to address female genital mutilation and cutting, one of the gravest forms of gender-based violence, estimated to affect hundreds of thousands of girls and women in the U.S.
- OVC and the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention have awarded $30 million to local organizations and state agencies to serve young victims of sex trafficking.
- OVW awarded over 500 grants last year, totaling more than $400 million, to help communities respond to sexual violence.
- OVW partnered with OVC to fund the $7 million Sexual Assault Forensic-Medical and Advocacy Services for Tribes (FAST) Initiative, which is designed to increase the availability of Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners (SAFEs) and victim advocates in tribal communities.
- OVW supports rural and tribal communities by prioritizing discretionary grant program solicitations that emphasize justice solutions and victim services.
- Through the National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative, the Bureau of Justice Assistance has provided almost $200 million since its inception in 2015, to agencies in 40 states to test tens of thousands of rape kits and help investigators solve crimes revealed by the evidence.
- A best practices document published by the National Institute of Justice provides 35 practical recommendations for investigators, crime labs and communities on improving the handling of sexual assault kits.
- The Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering, and Tracking awarded nearly $16 million last year to nearly 50 states, U.S. territories, and tribal communities to bolster registration and tracking of sex offenders and continues to manage and operate the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website.
- The COPS Office manages the Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center, which is working with several law enforcement agencies on issues related to sexual assault.
- The COPS Office has developed a variety of publications and other resource materials for law enforcement agencies, including the publication Identifying and Preventing Gender Bias in Law Enforcement Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence and articles such as “Child Sexual Abuse and Girls – A First Response” and “What We Can Do About Street Harassment.”
- The COPS Office supports law enforcement through a number of anti-human trafficking efforts, including child sex trafficking training.
Department of Justice resources are helping service providers reach sexual assault victims during the COVID-19 pandemic. Department funding supports the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-4673), which is now available in Spanish and English, and the Department of Defense Safe Helpline (877-995-5247), designed specifically for members of the DoD community.
With the pandemic necessarily curtailing the majority of April’s Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month events, the message of this month remains: we reaffirm our commitment to supporting survivors of sexual assault, encouraging strong criminal justice responses to these crimes and ending the scourge of sexual violence in our homes and communities.
The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems. More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.
The Office on Violence Against Women provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through the implementation of the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities across the country that are developing programs, policies and practices aimed at ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw.
Jamestown Man Charged with Failing to Register as A Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Shawn Edward Hastings, 50, of Jamestown, New York, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with failing to register as a sex offender. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura A. Higgins, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, the defendant was convicted in April 1997 in Cattaraugus County Court, NY, of Sodomy in the 2nd Degree. As a result, Hastings is required to register as a sex offender for life, which includes updating his registration to reflect any out-of-state change in address within 10 days.
As of January 4, 2018, the defendant registered an address in Warner Robins, GA, but later that year, and without notifying authorities, he obtained an apartment on Prendergast Avenue in Jamestown. In 2019, he began receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and Public Assistance funds through New York State. On March 11, 2020, the United States Marshal Service received information that Hastings fled Georgia and was residing in Jamestown, NY. On March 4, 2020, defendant was evicted from his Jamestown apartment for non-payment of rent.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the United States Marshal Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Indianapolis Man Pleads Guilty to Making Threats and Mailing A Dead AnimalRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Romney Christopher Ellis (55, Indianapolis, IN) has pleaded guilty to making threats and mailing a dead animal using the U.S. Mail. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 30, 2020.
According to court documents, for the past four years, Ellis has engaged in a campaign of harassment against a victim residing in Hillsborough County through text messages, photographs, videos, and mailings. He threatened to decapitate and set the victim on fire, and he routinely made racially and sexually charged statements in the text messages, including sending sexually explicit images of himself. At times, Ellis sent text messages stating that he had traveled from Indiana to Florida to see the victim. Ellis also used the U.S. Mail to harass the victim and the victim’s friends and family. On one occasion, Ellis mailed a package to the victim’s home containing a dead rat and black rose.
On February 13, 2020, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Ellis’s home in Indianapolis and recovered a handwritten note containing the names and addresses of the victim and the victim’s family and friends.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lisa M. Thelwell and Daniel George.
Illegal firearm possession sends Missoula man to prisonRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—A Missoula man who admitted he illegally possessed a firearm and ammunition was sentenced today to 15 months in prison and three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Paul Aaron Champion, 52, pleaded guilty in December to felon in possession of a firearm.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.
The prosecution said in court documents that in September 2017, federal, state and local law enforcement conducted a home visit and probation check at Champion's residence. Champion told his probation officer that he had used methamphetamine recently so his probation officer searched his residence. The officer found a bag containing a .380-caliber pistol and ammunition for the gun. Champion at first denied, then admitted the firearm belonged to him. Champion was convicted of a felony and was serving a suspended sentence at the time.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee Peterson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Missoula Police Department and Montana Probation and Parole.
This case is part of Project Guardian, a Department of Justice initiative launched in the fall of 2019 to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Through Project Guardian, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Montana is working to enhance coordination of its federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement partners in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes. In addition, Project Guardian supports information sharing and taking action when individuals are denied a firearm purchase by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System for mental health reasons or because they are a prohibited person.
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Former Bossier Parish Sheriff's Office Deputy Pleads Guilty to Felony in Connection with Steroid Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – U.S. Attorney David C. Joseph announced that Jonathan Colgin, 36, a former Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy, appeared in court yesterday afternoon via video conference and pleaded guilty to a felony for his role in concealing a federal crime in connection with a steroid distribution scheme. U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote presided over the hearing.
According to plea documents filed in this case, in August of 2016, Colgin was assigned to investigate an individual shipping anabolic steroids through the U.S. Mail. Colgin identified Brant Landry as the individual shipping the steroids and learned of the details of Landry’s steroid trafficking, including the location where Landry produced the anabolic steroids. During his assignment to the investigation, Colgin also learned that a friend was obtaining steroids from Landry.
As part of the guilty plea, Colgin admitted that he was aware of Landry’s steroids trafficking, which constituted a federal felony, but Colgin failed to notify the appropriate authorities of Landry’s illegal conduct. Colgin did not reveal Landry’s identity in his investigative reports, nor did he attempt to obtain a search warrant for the location where Landry produced the anabolic steroids. Colgin further admitted that he concealed his friend’s role and conduct from law enforcement.
On November 13, 2019, Colgin, along with his co-defendant and former Shreveport Police Officer Brian Skinner, was indicted on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute anabolic steroids and misprision of a felony. Skinner pleaded guilty on April 16, 2020, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute anabolic steroids.
Following the plea hearing, Colgin remains on bond, and faces up to three years in prison and a $250,000 fine, when he is sentenced on August 14, 2020.
This case is related to the prosecution in United States v. Brant R. Landry, and United States v. Mike Mosura, Criminal Docket No. 18-cr-00252. (Press releases linked.)
The DEA, High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Task Force and Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Earl M. Campbell and Jessica D. Cassidy are prosecuting case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Florida Man Sentenced to over 15 Months in Prison and $3.4 Million in Restitution for Health Care Fraud Scheme Involving Liberation Way Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation CentersRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced today that Jesse Peters, 45, of Lake Worth, Florida, has been sentenced to 15 months and one day of imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and restitution of $3,405,065 for one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. United States District Judge Wendy Beetlestone presided over the sentencing hearing in Philadelphia via video teleconference. This scheme involved Liberation Way, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation organization that had treatment centers in Yardley, Bala Cynwyd, and Fort Washington, Pennsylvania.
The defendant participated in an elaborate scheme involving thousands of medically unnecessary urine tests ordered by a co-conspirator and processed by a lab in Florida associated with Peters. The co-conspirator ordered the tests to be performed on samples obtained from Liberation Way patients, even though the co-conspirator never treated any of those patients. The tests were then sent to Florida-based laboratories for a battery of unnecessary tests, and Peters paid kickbacks to principals at Liberation Way in return for directing the samples to his company. Over the course of the conspiracy, Peters kicked back over $1,192,589 to his co-conspirators at Liberation Way in return for sending these unnecessary urine tests to his labs. The defendant pleaded guilty in April 2019.
“Those who think they can profit off of health care fraud are mistaken and may soon find themselves behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “Whether it’s ordering unnecessary laboratory tests to try to get rich quick or any other type of health care fraud, my Office is focused on protecting our nation’s health care system and punishing those who abuse it.”
“Jesse Peters thought he and his co-conspirators had hit upon a surefire moneymaker,” said Michael J. Driscoll, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “He fully bought into this scheme of unnecessary tests and kickbacks, which cost health benefit programs millions of dollars in fraudulent claims. Anyone involved in, or entertaining, similar activity should know that health care fraud is a priority for the FBI, and we will pursue anyone trying to steal from this country’s vital health care system.”
“Today’s sentencing sends a strong message, health care fraud will not be tolerated,” said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge, Office of the Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “HHS-OIG is committed to working with the Department of Justice, Federal and State law enforcement agencies to root out health care fraud and protect the integrity of U.S. taxpayer dollars.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Office of Personnel Management, and the Department of Labor, in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nancy Beam Winter and Special Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Labar and Kristy Christ.
Felon Charged with Unlawful Possession of Firearms, Ammunition, and Body ArmorRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Timothy Anthony, 38, a prior convicted felon residing in Henderson, was charged Thursday in a federal criminal complaint with unlawfully possessing firearms, including an AR-15 style rifle, ammunition, and a body armor vest, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Patrick Gorman for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and City of Henderson Police Chief Thedrick Andres.
As alleged in the complaint, on April 22, 2020, Henderson Police Department detectives executed a search warrant on Anthony’s vehicle and found a loaded .45 caliber handgun; a .45 caliber handgun magazine loaded with ammunition; a Point Blank Enterprises body armor vest with rifle plates; an AR-15 style rifle with a 13 inch barrel; nine rifle magazines with rifle ammunition; and a silencer for a rifle. The .45 caliber handgun and AR-15 style rifle appear to have been manufactured outside the normal process and are not registered. The body armor vest was reported stolen from the San Diego Police Department.
Later that day, detectives executed a search warrant at Anthony’s residence in Henderson. During the search, detectives found a Magnum Research .45 caliber handgun; a Remington 870 shotgun loaded with 13 shells; an AR-style pistol with no serial number; an AR-10 rifle; a CAI SKS rifle; dozens of shotgun shells and ammunition; an O-Mega taser; miscellaneous gun and machine parts; and gun manufacturing supplies. The Remington 870 shotgun was reported stolen from the San Diego Police Department.
Anthony had previously been convicted of felon in possession of a firearm in San Diego County. He also had previously been convicted of exhibiting a deadly weapon to police officer to resist arrest and possession for sale of a controlled substance in Los Angeles County.
Anthony was arrested, and a preliminary hearing will be scheduled before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel Albregts on a later date.
If convicted, Anthony faces a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for possession of a firearm not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Act; 10 years in prison for felon in possession of a firearm; 10 years in prison for felon in possession of ammunition; and three years in prison for violent felon in possession of body armor. The maximum statutory sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only. If convicted of any offense, the sentencing of a defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct for purposes of establishing probable cause, not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case was the product of an investigation by the ATF and Henderson Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melanee Smith is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide program by the Department of Justice that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN. For more information about PSN, visit www.justice.gov/usao-nv.
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Federal law enforcement leaders address discrimination amid Coronavirus pandemicRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia, in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, reminds citizens the law enforcement mission of the Justice Department to detect, investigate, and prosecute wrongdoing during the COVID-19 crisis continues. A crucial part of this mission is ensuring all citizens are free from harassment or discrimination because of their ethnicity.
“All of us in law enforcement are committed to the safety of citizens amidst this crisis. Every citizen without distinction,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “However, harassing people based on their real or perceived race or ethnicity is unacceptable and we will prosecute hate crimes and anti-discrimination violations to the fullest extent of the law.”
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to remind everyone that any violent criminal act against any person because of their race, ethnicity or national origin is a hate crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Chris Hacker, of the FBI Atlanta field office. “This includes violence toward Asian Americans or individuals from East Asian countries. The FBI will use all authority granted to us by federal law to investigate and hold those who commit violent acts accountable for their actions.”
There is a significant disparity between hate crimes that actually occur and those reported to law enforcement. It is critical to report hate crimes not only to show support for the individual(s) directly impacted, but also to send a clear message that the community will not tolerate these kinds of crimes. Reporting also enables law enforcement to fully understand the scope of the problem in a community and assign resources toward preventing and addressing crimes of bias and hate.
Attorney General William Barr and Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Eric Dreiband have called upon department prosecutors throughout the country to watch for hate-motivated acts of violence. If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you believe you have been the target or victim of a hate crime or other violation of your civil rights, please contact the FBI Atlanta Field Office by calling (770) 216-3000 or submitting a tip online https://www.fbi.gov/tips
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.
Federal Law Enforcement Leaders Affirm Importance of Protecting Civil Rights Amid Coronavirus PandemicRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – April 24, 2020
SAN DIEGO – U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer and FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Omer Meisel today denounced discrimination and acts of hate related to the COVID-10 pandemic that target Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, Native Americans, and other racial and ethnic minorities and called on residents of San Diego and Imperial counties to take steps to counter xenophobia throughout the state.
U.S. Attorney Brewer today appointed a COVID-19 civil rights coordinator, Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Tenorio, to lead investigations into suspected hate crimes and civil rights violations related to the nation's ongoing public health emergency. Tenorio is also chairperson of the San Diego Regional Hate Crimes Coalition.
“During this global pandemic, all families are worried about potential illness and death, financial security and their children’s education, but certain minority populations have the added fear that comes from being possible targets of hate,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer. “We will protect vulnerable communities from racist scapegoating and xenophobia that lead to criminal acts.”
“The FBI is concerned about the potential for hate crimes by individuals and groups targeting minority populations in the United States who they wrongly believe are responsible for the spread of the virus. Investigating hate crimes against any person, including Asian Americans or individuals from East Asian countries, is one of the FBI's highest priorities, and we continue unabated in our pursuit of offenders during this time” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Meisel. “We will use all authority granted under federal law to hold those who commit hate crimes accountable.”
The Justice Department will prosecute hate crimes and violations of anti-discrimination laws against Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, Native Americans, and others to the fullest extent of the law. Attorney General William Barr and Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Eric Dreiband have called upon department prosecutors throughout the country to watch for hate-motivated acts of violence.
U.S. Attorney Brewer and Special Agent in Charge Meisel urged San Diego and Imperial county residents to take the following steps to protect racial and ethnic minority community members from bias and hate:
• Use language supported by public health officials when referring to the global pandemic and the precipitating virus. World Health Organization (WHO) officials have recommended using “coronavirus disease 2019” or “COVID-19” as appropriate descriptors.
• Disseminate accurate COVID-19 information within professional and socialnetworks. U.S. Government officials have warned the public about widespread misinformation and disinformation related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Avoid spreading inaccurate information by relying on trusted sources for news and public health guidance. Examples include: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.gov), the WHO (WHO.int), and the California Department of Public Health https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/ncov2019.aspx.
• Encourage people you know to report all incidents of bias and hate. There is a significant disparity between hate crimes that actually occur and those reported to law enforcement. It is critical to report hate crimes not only to show support for the individual(s) directly impacted, but also to send a clear message that the community will not tolerate these kinds of crimes. Reporting also enables law enforcement to fully understand the scope of the problem in a community and assign resources toward preventing and addressing crimes of bias and hate.
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you believe you've been the target or victim of a hate crime, sexual harassment or other violation of your civil rights, please contact the FBI San Diego Field Office by calling (858) 320-1800 or submitting a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. The U.S. Attorney's Office COVID-19 civil rights coordinator will be notified of tips submitted via the above reporting methods.
Federal Judge Sentences Methamphetamine Trafficker to 15 Years on Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – On Wednesday, April 22, 2020, U.S. District Judge Max O. Cogburn, Jr., sentenced Lonnie Alton Henderson, 47, of Asheville, to 180 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for drug trafficking and firearm offenses, announced Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Joining U.S. Attorney Murray in making today’s announcement are Ronnie Martinez, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina, and Sheriff Kevin Frye of the Avery County Sheriff’s Office.
On February 11, 2019, Henderson pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to publicly filed court documents, on January 25, 2018, law enforcement with the North Carolina Highway Patrol and the Avery County Sheriff’s office conducted a traffic stop of Henderson’s vehicle in Avery County, North Carolina. Law enforcement recovered from inside the vehicle approximately 102 grams of methamphetamine and a Glock 42 .380 caliber handgun. As reflected in court documents, Henderson admitted he possessed the firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking offense. Henderson is currently in federal custody.
Henderson’s three co-defendants were previously sentenced by Judge Cogburn. Augustine Manuel Vega, 37, of San Bernardino, Calif. was sentenced to 102 months in prison and five years of supervised release; James Russell, 59, of San Bernardino, was sentenced to 70 months in prison and three years of supervised release; and Robert Preston Clark, 35, of Asheville, was sentenced to 72 months in prison and four years of supervised release.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Murray commended HSI’s Henderson County Office and the Avery County Sheriff’s Office for handling the investigation, and thanked the North Carolina Highway Patrol for their invaluable assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Bradley of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case.