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19 March 2020
Dominican National Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to aggravated identify theft and to falsely using the Social Security Number of another.
Moices Santilit, 63, of Lawrence, pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated identity theft and one count of using a Social Security number that is not assigned to him. U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani scheduled sentencing for April 8, 2020 at 11:00.am.
In February 2016, Santilit used the Social Security number of a U.S. citizen in order to fraudulently obtain a valid Massachusetts Asbestos Worker Identification card under the victim’s name.
The statute for falsely representing the Social Security number of another provides for a maximum five years incarceration and three years supervised release. The charging statute for aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory sentence of two years in prison to be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed, up to one year of supervised release. Both statutes provide for a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Jason Molina, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugenia M. Carris of Lelling’s Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions Unit is prosecuting the case.
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Career Offender Sentenced to over Eighteen Years in Federal Prison for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge James S. Moody has sentenced Derrick Coleman (41, New Port Richey) to 18 years and 4 months in federal prison for bank robbery. As part of his sentence, the court also entered a money judgment in the amount of $5,000, the proceeds of the bank robbery.
A jury found Coleman guilty on November 19, 2019.
Evidence presented at trial showed that, on June 30, 2018, Coleman visited a Chase Bank in Tarpon Springs and spoke to a teller about opening a new account. As the teller explained the process, Coleman placed a bag on the counter, told the teller that he had a gun, and demanded money from the teller. The teller complied and Coleman fled the bank with $5,000.
The Tarpon Springs Chase bank robbery was Coleman’s thirteenth bank robbery. From February 2007 through December 2007, Coleman engaged in a bank robbery spree, where he robbed or attempted to rob twelve banks in Illinois.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tarpon Springs Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Charlie D. Connally.
This is another case prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
Billings man charged with drug distribution, gun crimes in sex trafficking investigationRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—A Billings man accused of crimes in an investigation into sex trafficking was arraigned today on drug distribution and firearms charges, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Dejon Anthony Duncan, 21, pleaded not guilty to four counts in a 25-count indictment charging multiple defendants. The four counts include distribution of ecstasy, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
If convicted of the most serious crime, Duncan faces a minimum mandatory five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release.
The indictment is merely an accusation and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. Duncan was detained pending further proceedings.
Co-defendants William Maurice Newkirk, 39, and Djavon Lamont King, 29, both of Billings, have pleaded not guilty to multiple sex trafficking and drug counts. Newkirk also pleaded not guilty to firearms counts.
The FBI investigated the case.
Pacer case reference. 20-25.
If the above case is of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor its progress through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Armored Truck Guard Is Charged for Stealing $325,000Read the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A federal grand jury has returned a criminal indictment charging Shomarley Lockhard Hodge, 33, of Charlotte, with embezzlement, bank larceny, and transactional money laundering for stealing $325,000 in cash intended to restock bank ATMs, announced Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Hodge turned himself in to FBI agents this morning.
John A. Strong, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Charlotte Division, joins U.S. Attorney Murray in making today’s announcement.
According to allegations contained in the indictment, in December 2019, Hodge began working as an armed guard for an armored truck company identified in the indictment as “Company L.” In that capacity, the indictment alleges, Hodge was responsible for the safe delivery of cash entrusted to Company L’s custody on behalf of a bank, to the bank’s branches and ATMs in the Charlotte area.
According to allegations in the indictment, on or about January 30, 2020, Hodge abused his position of trust and stole approximately $325,000 from the armored truck, which was supposed to be delivered to several bank ATMs. As alleged in the indictment, the following day, on January 31, 2020, and continuing through on or about February 6, 2020, Hodge began making large cash deposits into the bank account of an acquaintance. During the relevant time period, Hodge made more than 95 such cash deposits, totaling at least $139,000. Hodge also used some of the money to pay for personal expenses, and to make a $40,000 down payment on a 2020 BMW x7 vehicle, with a purchase price of more than $118,000.
Hodge had his initial appearance this morning before U. S. Magistrate Judge David C. Keesler. The embezzlement charge carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. The bank larceny charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalty for transactional money laundering is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The charges in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The FBI in Charlotte investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel Ryan, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte, is prosecuting the case.
Alaska U.S. Attorney Announces More Than $65 Million Available to Fight Human Trafficking and Help Trafficking VictimsRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder for the District of Alaska announced that more than $65 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities combat human trafficking and serve adults and children who are victimized in trafficking operations.
“Our nation is facing difficult challenges, none more pressing than the scourge of human trafficking. Human traffickers pose a dire threat to public safety and countering this threat remains one of the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight against this insidious crime. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs that support human trafficking task forces and services for human trafficking survivors.
A number of funding opportunities are currently open, with several more opening in the near future.
Missing and Exploited Children Training and Technical Assistance Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17351
Total Available $1.8 million
Deadline 4/6/2020 (Extended)
Multidisciplinary Task Force Program to Combat Human Trafficking
Total Available $22 million
Opens week of 3/16/2020
Preventing Trafficking of Girls
Total Available $1.7 million
Opens week of 3/16/2020
Research and Evaluation on Trafficking in Persons
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17324
Total Available $2.5 million
Deadline 4/20/2020
Services for Victims of Human Trafficking
Total Available $16.5 million
Opens week of 3/16/2020
Specialized Training and Technical Assistance on Housing for Victims of Human Trafficking
Total Available $2 million
Opens week of 3/16/2020
Human Trafficking Training and Technical Assistance Program
Total Available $5 million
Opens week of 3/16/2020
Improving Outcomes for Child and Youth Victims of Human Trafficking
Total Available $6 million
Opens week of 3/16/2020
Integrated Services for Minor Victims of Labor Trafficking
Total Available $8 million
Opens week of 3/16/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
Alaska U.S. Attorney Announces More Than $163 Million Available to Fight Addiction CrisisRead the Press Release
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder for the District of Alaska announced that more than $163 million in Department of Justice grants is available nationwide to help communities address America’s addiction crisis.
“Our nation is facing the difficult challenge of curbing substance addiction, which threatens public safety and is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to prevent overdose deaths and break the cycle of addiction and crime.
A number of funding opportunities that address the addiction crisis are currently open:
Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17098
Total Available $1.75 million
Deadline 5/14/2020
Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/COSSAP20
Total Available $27 million
Deadline 5/21/2020
Enhancing Community Responses to America's Addiction Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims
https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-enhancing-community-responses-to-drug-crisis.pdf
Total Available: $19 million
Deadline: 5/4/2020
Family Drug Court Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17090
Total Available $18.2 million
Deadline 4/8/2020 (Extended)
Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17754
Total Available $28.1 million
Deadline 5/5/2020
Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17051
Total Available $7.2 million
Deadline 4/13/2020 (Extended)
Mentoring Opportunities for Youth Initiative
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-16930
Total Available $48 million
Deadline 4/13/2020
Opioid Affected Youth Initiative
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17352
Total Available $9 million
Deadline 4/20/2020
Research and Evaluation on Drugs and Crime
https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17275
Total Available $1 million
Deadline 4/20/2020
Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners
https://bja.ojp.gov/RSAT20
Total Available $4.5 million
Deadline 4/6/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
Akron man charged with possession of 16 kilograms of cocaineRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio returned a one-count indictment today charging Warren D. Morrow, age 49, of Akron, Ohio with attempted possession with intent to distribute 16 kilograms, approximately 35 pounds, of cocaine.
The indictment alleges that on February 26, the defendant did knowingly and intentionally possess and attempt to distribute 16 kilograms, or 35 pounds, of a substance containing cocaine.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Ohio-Northeast Smuggling Enforcement Team (ONSET) task force. The ONSET Task Force is a task force through Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s Organized Crime Commission. The task force is comprised of investigators from the Medina County Sheriff’s Office, the Summit County Sheriff’s Office, HSI, Copley Township Police and the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter E. Daly.
Akron man charged as part of Project Guardian initiative to reduce gun violenceRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in Cleveland, Ohio returned a one-count indictment today charging Michael W. Humphries, age 28, of Akron, Ohio with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The indictment alleges that the defendant, after having been previously convicted of aggravated robbery in 2008 and two counts of aggravated assault in 2015, knowingly possessed four rounds of Winchester 12-gauge shotgun ammunition, which was found during a lawful search of the defendant’s residence.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
This prosecution is part of Project Guardian, the Justice Department’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program that surges federal and local law enforcement resources to communities’ most violent neighborhoods in order to root out offenders and build positive relationships with victims, witnesses and community members.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter E. Daly.
Addiction CrisisRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that more than $163 million in Department of Justice grants is available to help communities address America’s addiction crisis.
“Our nation is facing the difficult challenge of curbing substance addiction, which threatens public safety and is among the Administration’s top domestic priorities,” said Katharine T. Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice Programs. “The Department of Justice is front and center in the fight to meet this challenge. OJP is making historic amounts of grant funding available to ensure that our communities have access to innovative and diverse solutions.”
The funding is available through OJP, the federal government’s leading source of public safety funding and crime victim assistance in state, local and tribal jurisdictions. OJP’s programs support a wide array of activities and services, including programs designed to prevent overdose deaths and break the cycle of addiction and crime.
A number of funding opportunities that address the addiction crisis are currently open:
Adult Drug Court and Veterans Treatment Court Discretionary Grant Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17098
Deadline 5/14/2020
Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Site-based Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/COSSAP20
Deadline 5/21/2020
Enhancing Community Responses to America's Addiction Crisis: Serving Our Youngest Crime Victims
https://www.ovc.gov/grants/pdftxt/fy-2020-enhancing-community-responses-to-drug-crisis.pdf Deadline: 5/4/2020
Family Drug Court Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17090
Deadline 4/8/2020 (Extended)
Harold Rogers Prescription Drug Monitoring Program
https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-17754
Deadline 5/5/2020
Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17051
Deadline 4/13/2020 (Extended)
Mentoring Opportunities for Youth Initiative
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-16930
Deadline 4/13/2020
Opioid Affected Youth Initiative
https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/ojjdp-2020-17352
Deadline 4/20/2020
Research and Evaluation on Drugs and Crime https://nij.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/nij-2020-17275
Deadline 4/20/2020
Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners
https://bja.ojp.gov/RSAT20
Deadline 4/6/2020
For more information regarding all OJP funding opportunities, visit https://www.ojp.gov/funding/explore/current-funding-opportunities
# # #
For Additional Information Contact:
Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales 414-297-1700
18 March 2020
U.S. Attorney’s Office on alert for fraud allegations regarding COVID-19Read the Press Release
Seattle – U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran is asking our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to be alert to frauds preying on those concerned about COVID-19.
“In a time of high stress and fear it is critical that for the public to know that law enforcement at all levels remains dedicated to protecting them from harm – whether it is from scams, frauds or violent crime,” said U.S. Attorney Moran. “As Attorney General Barr has directed, we will remain vigilant in detecting, investigating and prosecuting wrongdoing related to the crisis. To those who are engaged in perpetrating these schemes, you are on notice that my office will aggressively pursue you and hold you to answer for preying on our communities.”
The Western District of Washington has extensive expertise in cybercrime and is already monitoring issues related to phishing attempts and efforts to infect emails, links and postings with malware. Members of the public need to be wary of emails or online posts that could be infected with malware that could then infect their electronic devices and steal personal and financial information.
“The pandemic is dangerous enough without wrongdoers seeking to profit from public panic and this sort of conduct cannot be tolerated,” Attorney General William Barr said in his communication to the U.S. Attorneys.
If you or someone you know believe you’ve been the target or victim of an outbreak-related fraud scheme, please contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) by visiting www.IC3.gov.
U.S. Attorney's Office Takes Steps to Maintain Mission Amidst Covid-19 Public Health EmergencyRead the Press Release
PORTLAND—Today, U.S. Attorney Billy J. Williams announced a series of steps aimed at protecting consumer financial safety and preventing civil rights violations amidst the coronavirus outbreak.
U.S. Attorney Williams has appointed COVID-19 fraud and civil rights coordinators to lead investigations into known and suspected occurrences of consumer financial fraud and civil rights violations resulting from the nation’s ongoing public health emergency.
“We are aware of instances of consumer fraud and civil rights violations stemming from the COVID-19 public health emergency,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “While Americans work to protect themselves and their loved ones from the threat of COVID-19, some individuals are actively trying to profit off of this emergency. Equally concerning,” Williams continued, “we have received reports of alleged civil rights violations stemming from the false belief that certain groups of people are more susceptible to carrying or contracting the virus based on their real or perceived race, ethnicity, employment or other demographic characteristics.”
If you or someone you know believe you’ve been the target or victim of an outbreak-related fraud scheme, please contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) by visiting www.IC3.gov. Crime tips of any kind, including alleged civil rights violations, can be submitted by visiting tips.fbi.gov or calling the FBI Portland Field Office at (503) 224-4181. If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office COVD-19 fraud and civil rights coordinators will be notified of tips submitted via any of the above reporting methods.
On March 13, 2020, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Marco A. Hernandez issued Standing Order 2020-4, Court Operations in Response to COVID-19. Under the order, most district court proceedings are continued or will be resolved via telephone or video conference. Case-by-case exceptions to this guidance will be considered by the applicable presiding judge after consultation with counsel. The court’s standing order will remain in effect until vacated or amended.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has taken necessary precautions to protect the health and safety of its staff during this health emergency while continuing to fulfill its public safety mission. Essential law enforcement functions including investigations, the signing and execution of warrants, filing of charges, and case litigation will continue. District of Oregon prosecutors and support staff will continuing working with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement partners to safeguard our justice system and protect the safety and security of our nation during this difficult time.
“We are immensely grateful for the many public health and medical professionals and first responders on the front lines of protecting our communities from the novel coronavirus,” said U.S. Attorney Williams, “During this time of uncertainty and fear, it is more important than ever that all Americans look out for one another, act out of compassion and generosity, and look for opportunities to help their neighbors. Likewise, federal law enforcement will continue doing our part to keep our communities safe.”
U.S. Attorney and Attorney General for the District of Columbia Announce COVID-19 Scam Prevention MeasuresRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — As the District of Columbia and this nation face the unprecedented public health emergency posed by the pandemic outbreak of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is partnering with the District of Columbia’s Office of the Attorney General to detect COVID-19 scams, prevent citizens from falling prey to them, and hold fraudsters accountable.
U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Shea stated: “The challenges posed by the spread of COVID-19 threaten the safety and security of the District of Columbia and our nation. My Office will not allow this crisis to be exploited by criminals who look to profit during this public health emergency. We are committed to detecting, investigating, and prosecuting these fraudsters and will devote whatever time, energy, and resources are necessary to do so.”
District of Columbia Attorney General Karl A. Racine stated: “The Office of Attorney General and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have joined forces to deploy our vast criminal and civil tools to protect District residents from fraudulent, predatory, and illegal conduct by schemers and fraudsters.”
Among the threats posed by the COVID-19 outbreak are scams aimed at exploiting fears and spreading disinformation about the pandemic. For example, individuals and businesses using the internet to sell fake cures for COVID-19, market products falsely claiming to mitigate COVID‑19, and fraudulently retail COVID-19 supplies, such as face masks and hand sanitizer. In addition there are reports of phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and reports of malware being inserted onto mobile apps designed to track the spread of the virus.
Today, in light of these reports, District of Columbia’s U.S. Attorney’s Office and Office of Attorney General are launching a COVID-19 Pandemic Fraud Hotline, 202-252-7022 and [email protected] through which citizens can report suspected scams related to the pandemic. The Hotline will prompt callers to leave a message reporting suspected scams, including whatever detailed information they can provide that might aid law enforcement in identifying and stopping fraudsters. The Hotline’s voicemail and email accounts will be monitored and appropriate leads will be provided to law enforcement partners, such as the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspector, Metropolitan Police Department, and other local and federal authorities.
District of Columbia residents can also submit complaints of suspected scams, fraud, or other consumer complaints to the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia by calling its Consumer Protection Hotline at 202-442-9828 or by emailing [email protected] and can access helpful resources at www.oag.dc.gov/coronavirus.
U.S. Attorney Warns of Coronavirus Scams Targeting Vulnerable VictimsRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – United States Attorney G. Zachary Terwilliger warned today of several fraud schemes seeking to exploit the evolving COVID-19 public health crisis by targeting populations most at risk of severe illness.
“Fraudsters frequently prey upon vulnerable individuals during difficult times,” said Terwilliger. “The COVID-19 pandemic is a public health emergency here in the United States and around the world. Although the severity of reported illnesses is wide ranging, it is clear that older adults and those with severe chronic medical conditions are at higher risk of severe illness. The Eastern District of Virginia has been on the frontlines of combatting fraud and abuse targeting these vulnerable populations pre-COVID-19. Based upon Attorney General Barr’s call to action 48 hours ago, we remain committed to protecting all community members, but especially so for the particularly vulnerable during this crisis. Today, as our communities take important steps to limit the spread of COVID-19, we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to guard against fraudulent pandemic profiteers, as well as to ensure the rule of law and public safety is not eroded during this critical time. For anyone victimized by a COVID-19 scam, our office remains steadfastly committed to pursuing justice on your behalf.”
Scammers have already devised numerous methods for defrauding people in connection with COVID-19. They are setting up websites, contacting people by phone and email, and posting disinformation on social media platforms. Some examples of scams linked to COVID-19 include:
- Treatment scams: Scammers are offering to sell fake cures, vaccines, and advice on unproven treatments for COVID-19.
- Supply scams: Scammers are creating fake shops, websites, social media accounts, and email addresses claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand, such as surgical masks. When consumers attempt to purchase supplies through these channels, fraudsters pocket the money and never provide the promised supplies.
- Provider scams: Scammers are also contacting people by phone and email, pretending to be doctors and hospitals that have treated a friend or relative for COVID-19, and demanding payment for that treatment.
- Charity scams: Scammers are soliciting donations for individuals, groups, and areas affected by COVID-19.
- Phishing scams: Scammers posing as national and global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are sending phishing emails designed to trick recipients into downloading malware or providing personal identifying and financial information.
- App scams: Scammers are also creating and manipulating mobile apps designed to track the spread of COVID-19 to insert malware that will compromise users’ devices and personal information.
- Investment scams: Scammers are offering online promotions on various platforms, including social media, claiming that the products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect, or cure COVID-19, and that the stock of these companies will dramatically increase in value as a result. These promotions are often styled as “research reports,” make predictions of a specific “target price,” and relate to microcap stocks, or low-priced stocks issued by the smallest of companies with limited publicly available information.
Terwilliger urges everyone, especially those most at risk of serious illness, to avoid these and similar scams by taking the following steps:
- Independently verify the identity of any company, charity, or individual that contacts you regarding COVID-19.
- Check the websites and email addresses offering information, products, or services related to COVID-19. Be aware that scammers often employ addresses that differ only slightly from those belonging to the entities they are impersonating. For example, they might use “cdc.com” or “cdc.org” instead of “cdc.gov.”
- Be wary of unsolicited emails offering information, supplies, or treatment for COVID-19 or requesting your personal information for medical purposes. Legitimate health authorities will not contact the general public this way.
- Do not click on links or open email attachments from unknown or unverified sources. Doing so could download a virus onto your computer or device.
- Make sure the anti-malware and anti-virus software on your computer is operating and up to date.
- Ignore offers for a COVID-19 vaccine, cure, or treatment. Remember, if there is a medical breakthrough, you won’t hear about it for the first time through an email, online ad, or unsolicited sales pitch.
- Check online reviews of any company offering COVID-19 products or supplies. Avoid companies whose customers have complained about not receiving items.
- Research any charities or crowdfunding sites soliciting donations in connection with COVID-19 before giving. Remember, an organization may not be legitimate even if it uses words like “CDC” or “government” in its name or has reputable looking seals or logos on its materials. For online resources on donating wisely, visit the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website.
- Be wary of any business, charity, or individual requesting payments or donations in cash, by wire transfer, gift card, or through the mail. Don’t send money through any of these channels.
- Be cautious of “investment opportunities” tied to COVID-19, especially those based on claims that a small company’s products or services can help stop the virus. If you decide to invest, carefully research the investment beforehand. For information on how to avoid investment fraud, visit the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) website.
- For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) websites.
If anyone believes they have been the victim of a COVID-19 fraud scheme, they are encouraged to contact federal, state, and local authorities.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
U.S. Attorney Gives Status Update on Continuity of Operations and Warns Against Fraud and Scams Related to CoronavirusRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN –In response to the rapidly changing situation surrounding the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee is implementing the Contingency Plan and Guidance of the Department of Justice, White House Task Force, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Office of Management and Budget, and Office of Personnel Management to mitigate risks to individual employees and the general public.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "In uncertain times, the rule of law is more important than ever. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee is committed to the continuity of operations and the critical mission of the Department of Justice."
Specifically, the U.S. Attorney provides the following update regarding the operational status of the Department of Justice and other agencies and components:
1. Our mission to protect the citizens of West Tennessee and the United States is not changed by the COVID-19 outbreak. While we have adapted operations to optimize the health and safety of our employees, we have ensured that those employees have the resources and flexibility to continue to safeguard the District and the American people from violent crime, opioids and other dangerous drugs, financial and sexual exploitation, threats against our national security, and other criminal activity.
Our offices in Memphis and Jackson remain open, and we are working closely with our federal, state, and local partners to protect the public and ensure that mission-critical law enforcement operations continue uninterrupted. Based upon guidance issued by the Office of Management and Budget and the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., we are maximizing the telework program and options for our employees. Non-high risk employees will continue to cover office and court responsibilities as needed and on a rotating basis. All non-mission critical travel by employees has been suspended.
2. Yesterday, the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee issued the following notice and Administrative Order:
Due to exigent circumstances resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, all civil proceedings in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee are continued until after April 17. All criminal proceedings other than initial appearances, arraignments, bond and detention hearings, and other in-person criminal proceedings presided over by magistrate judges, are continued until after April 17. All civil and criminal jury trials scheduled to commence now through April 17 are continued until further notice. Courthouses otherwise remain open for business. Please see Administrative Order 20-12 for further details: https://www.tnwd.uscourts.gov/pdf/adminorders/20-12.pdf
3. For the next 30 days, the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) will implement nationwide modified operations to maximize social distancing and limit group gatherings in their facilities. Other issues, including social, legal, and volunteer visits, inmate movement, tours, and staff training and travel has been suspended. Enhanced health screening of staff, contractors, and inmates has been implemented, and facilities are well prepared with on-site medical professionals to test, treat, and isolate symptomatic inmates with exposure risk factors.
The BOP is coordinating with the U.S. Marshals Service and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on these initiatives to ensure that those agencies can adjust for impact to their operations. BOP will also be sharing this guidance with its private prison contractors.
For more information regarding COVID-19, and the BOP's Modified Operations, see the following link: https://www.bop.gov/coronavirus/covid19_status.jsp
4. Unfortunately, because criminal activity does not engage in social distancing or voluntary quarantine, federal law enforcement agencies and components must continue their duties in criminal investigations, enforcement operations, and response to critical public safety incidents during this challenging time. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is continuing to closely coordinate with all federal law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Marshals Service, FBI, ATF, DEA, HSI, ICE, CBP, USPIS, and U.S. Secret Service to safely and effectively execute our mission and uphold the rule of law. Additionally, during this national emergency, DEA Diversion Control Division is working with registrants to ensure the nation’s drug supply is adequate and uninterrupted. See this link for more information: https://deadiversion.usdoj.gov/coronavirus.html
5. Attorney General William Barr has directed U.S. Attorneys to make it an absolute priority to detect, deter, investigate, prosecute, and punish all criminal conduct related to the coronavirus crisis. In particular, there have been reports of individuals and businesses selling fake cures for COVID-19 online and engaging in other forms of fraud, reports of phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and reports of malware being inserted onto mobile apps designed to track the spread of the virus. Other scams and exploitation schemes include price gouging and price fixing, as well as antitrust violations involving the manufacture, distribution, and sale of public health products. The Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division remains open for business, and will continue to carry out its mission to protect competition and the American consumer.
https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-antitrust-civil-process-changes-pendency-covid-19-event
Citizens should remain vigilant and discerning-- scammers and fraudsters never let an opportunity to scam and defraud go to waste. When it comes to the COVID-19 situation, whether it’s a fake "charitable" cause or a fake "cure," don’t be duped. Use common sense, never give out your personal or banking information or Social Security number, and never buy a gift card because someone wants to be paid "right now." Protect yourself and do your research before donating or contributing to a crowdfunding campaign.
If you suspect a coronavirus treatment of cure scam, please report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at: https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov You can also learn more about the signs of a scam here:
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/coronavirus-scams-what-ftc-doing
Report any suspicious activity, fraud, and attempted fraud at FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at: https://www.ic3.gov
The pandemic is dangerous enough without wrongdoers seeking to profit from public fear and panic, and this conduct will not be tolerated. This office will be working with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to ensure that all appropriate enforcement tools are made available to stop and punish wrongdoers.
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U.S. Attorney Frank Appoints Experienced Prosecutor as COVID-19 Fraud CoordinatorRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Maine: U.S. Attorney Halsey B. Frank today announced that he has appointed an experienced Assistant U.S. Attorney to coordinate investigations and prosecutions of crimes related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Perry, a senior prosecutor in the Portland office, will serve as the COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator, overseeing federal prosecutions of virus scammers.
Attorney General William Barr has directed all U.S. Attorneys to prioritize the detection, investigation and prosecution of criminal conduct related to the current pandemic. “The pandemic is dangerous enough,” the Attorney General said, “without wrongdoers seeking to profit from public panic and this sort of conduct cannot be tolerated.”
“Criminals are already taking advantage of the anxiety caused by the coronavirus outbreak to peddle fake cures, send phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and install malware on apps designed to track the virus,” said U.S. Attorney Frank. “This type of fraudulent activity is appalling. AUSA Perry, one of the most talented and experienced prosecutors in my office, will lead our efforts to stop these fraudsters.”
Individuals who believe they may have been the target of a coronavirus-related fraud scheme can file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. More information about coronavirus scams is also available from the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov/coronavirus.
Two Passaic County Men Charged with Conspiracy and Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – Two Passaic County men are scheduled to appear today in connection with the robbery of the Valley National Bank in Little Falls, New Jersey, on Feb. 27, 2020, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Nicholas Ortiz, 37, of Paterson, New Jersey, and Jose Soto, 49, of Passaic, New Jersey, are each charged by complaint with one count of bank robbery and one count of conspiracy to commit bank robbery. Soto is also charged with an additional count of bank robbery in connection with the robbery of a PNC Bank branch in Passaic on Feb. 6, 2020. Both defendants were arrested today and are scheduled to have their initial appearances this afternoon with U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy Waldor in Newark federal court by telephonic conference.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Feb. 6, 2020, two suspects wearing ski masks and holding umbrellas entered the PNC Bank in Passaic, New Jersey, and allegedly began ordering everyone to get down on the floor. One of the suspects pointed a silver and black handgun customers and employees. The other suspect entered the bank and jumped over the teller counter, demanding that the teller turn over all cash in the drawers.
On Feb. 27, 2020, two suspects allegedly entered the Valley National Bank in Little Falls, New Jersey. One of the suspects pointed a silver and black gun at customers and employees. The second suspect jumped over a teller counter and began rifling through various drawers. The suspects then forced the bank employees at gunpoint to open the vault, and began retrieving cash from the bank vault. The suspects forced all employees into the bank vault and then fled through the rear door.
Law enforcement officers were subsequently able to identify Soto as the owner of the getaway car from the PNC Bank robbery. They were also able to place Soto’s phone in the vicinity of the PNC Bank on the day of the robbery.
Law enforcement were able to identify Ortiz as the owner of the getaway car from the Valley National Bank Robbery. They were also able to place both Soto’s and Ortiz’s phone in the vicinity of the Valley National Bank on the day of the robbery.
Each bank robbery charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The conspiracy charge carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Gregory W. Ehrie in Newark; the Passaic Police Department, under the direction of Chief Luis A. Guzman; the Little Falls Police Department, under the direction of Chief Steven Post; the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes; the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff Richard Berdnik; and the Paterson Police Department, under the direction of Police Director Jerry Speziale, with the investigation leading to today’s charges.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emma Spiro of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark.
The charge and allegations in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Supplier to Trenton Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Admits Heroin Distribution and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Trenton man today admitted his role as a supplier to a significant drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed more than one kilogram of heroin in Trenton and the surrounding area, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced today.
David Antonio, a/k/a “Pop,” a/k/a “Papi,” a/k/a “Santiago Ramirez,” 32, pleaded guilty today before Chief U.S. District Judge Freda L. Wolfson in Trenton federal court to Count One of a third superseding indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. Another Trenton resident, Wayne K. Bush, 42, pleaded guilty today before Judge Wolfson to Count Ten of the third superseding indictment charging him with using a telephone to facilitate a drug trafficking crime.
In October 2018, Antonio, Bush, and 24 other individuals were charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to distribute heroin. On Feb. 27, 2020, a grand jury returned a 10-count third superseding indictment charging Antonio, Bush, and five other defendants with conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and various other drug and firearm offenses. Of the 26 defendants originally charged in the criminal complaint, Antonio and Bush are the 20th and 21st defendants to plead guilty. The charges remain pending against five defendants.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From October 2017 to October 2018, the defendants and others engaged in a large drug trafficking conspiracy that operated in the areas of Martin Luther King Boulevard, Sanford Street, Middle Rose Street, Southard Street, Hoffman Avenue, Chambers Street, and Coolidge Avenue in Trenton, and which sought to profit from the distribution of heroin and numerous other controlled substances. Through the interception of telephone calls and text messages pursuant to court-authorized wiretap orders, controlled purchases of heroin, the use of confidential sources of information, and other investigative techniques, law enforcement learned that conspirators Jakir Taylor and Jerome Roberts obtained regular supplies of hundreds of “bricks” of heroin from Antonio. Intercepted communications among Taylor, Roberts, Antonio, and other conspirators revealed that Taylor and Roberts agreed to obtain from Antonio, and that Antonio agreed to supply, a “motherlode” of as many as 1,400 bricks of heroin in a single delivery – equating to approximately 1.5 kilograms of heroin. Taylor told Antonio that he intended to “flood the streets” of Trenton with this large supply, and Antonio agreed to supply a sufficient amount of heroin to Taylor that would allow him to do so. In communications with Taylor, Antonio indicated that he was “filling the bags” up with heroin and fentanyl. During coordinated arrests on Oct. 25, 2018, law enforcement arrested Antonio at a residence in Trenton, and recovered more than 1.4 kilograms of heroin, in addition to a significant amount of paraphernalia used to package heroin for distribution.
Telephonic communications intercepted pursuant to the wiretap order also revealed that Bush, who was incarcerated during the conspiracy on a related conviction, facilitated Taylor’s plan by providing specific advice and recommendations to Taylor on pricing and quantity, ensuring loyalty from his subordinates, and maintaining relationships with heroin suppliers.
The drug conspiracy count to which Antonio pleaded guilty carries a statutory mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of life years in prison, and a maximum fine of $10 million. Because Antonio admitted during his plea to having previously been convicted of a federal drug trafficking offense for which he served more than a year in prison, he may be eligible for a statutory enhanced penalty, which would increase the statutory mandatory minimum term of imprisonment to 15 years, and a maximum fine of $20 million. The facilitation charge to which Bush pleaded guilty carries a statutory maximum term of imprisonment of four years, and a maximum fine of $250,000. Antonio’s sentencing is scheduled for June 30, 2020, and Bush’s sentencing is scheduled for June 29, 2020.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, Newark Division, Trenton Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Gregory W. Ehrie; special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Newark Division, Trenton Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Charlie J. Patterson; officers of the Trenton Police Department, under the direction of Police Director Sheilah Coley; officers of the Princeton Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Nicholas Sutter; officers of the Ewing Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police John P. Stemler III; officers of the Burlington Township Police Department, under the direction of Police Director Bruce Painter; and detectives of the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Scott A. Coffina, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty pleas. He also thanked officers of the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Superintendent Col. Patrick J. Callahan; detectives of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Angelo Onofri; officers of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of
Sheriff John A. Kemler; and members of the New Jersey State Board of Parole for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution of the case.
The government is represented by Attorney-in-Charge J. Brendan Day and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Ramey of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.
This case was conducted under the auspices of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) and the FBI’s Greater Trenton Safe Streets Task Force, a partnership between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to enhance the identification, apprehension, and prosecution of individuals involved in gang-related activities, violent crime, and drug distribution in and around the greater Trenton area. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
The charges and allegations pending against the remaining five defendants are merely accusations, and they are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Statement of United States Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr. on COVID-19Read the Press Release
Because of the impact of COVID-19, we are facing a time of uncertainty and change. Frequently, we fear these uncertainties and the anxiety they create. But ultimately, we face these challenges together. We persevere, joining together and uniting our resources to combat these fears. Our country has faced emergencies before, and we will in the future. Regardless of the challenges we face, we are always stronger together. In these situations, we must remain cognizant that our collective choices can have a long-term impact.
I want to reassure Kentuckians that, despite the many uncertainties they see, those of us employed in the criminal justice system are committed to ensuring that our system of justice continues – even in this time of national outbreak. I am grateful for the work performed by committed public servants, like our law enforcement partners at the federal, state, and local level, at this trying time.
Following the guidance of the Attorney General of the United States, the dedicated men and women who serve in my Office will continue to carry out the critical mission of the Department of Justice, while responsibly addressing the current public health concerns raised by the COVID-19 outbreak. Our obligation to protect the citizens of the Eastern District of Kentucky is not changed by the COVID-19 outbreak.
Although we are not immune from the need to adjust our own routines –and we have temporarily adapted our operations to ensure the health and safety of our employees and the public we come into contact with – our offices in Lexington, London, and Ft. Mitchell remain open, and we continue to perform our core law enforcement function. We continue working in partnership with our federal, state, and local law enforcement colleagues to protect the public and enforce the law, including prosecuting violent crimes, serious drug trafficking offenses, and other matters.
Attorney General Barr has directed all U.S. Attorneys to make it a priority to investigate and prosecute criminal conduct related to the coronavirus. There have been reports across the country of fraudulent activity surrounding COVID-19, including phishing emails from fraudsters posing as official health organizations. This conduct highlights the need for our steadfast focus on our mission and the drive to aggressively combat these incidents and prosecute the wrongdoers who are preying on us in our time of uncertainty and anxiety, purely seeking to profit from the dangers of the virus.
Through cooperation and determination, we will make it through this crisis and emerge stronger and more resilient. We are all in this together. We will make it through.
Statement of U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain on U.S. Attorney’s Office Operations during Coronavirus Outbreak and on Coronavirus-Related ScamsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – As our government responds to the ramifications of the coronavirus and more restrictions are put in place, the virus’ impact on our lives continues to evolve. I want to update the public on the measures that my Office is taking to ensure that we continue to fulfill our mission to protect the citizens of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
During this rapidly evolving situation, one thing remains certain: the prosecutors and staff in my Office are on duty and stand ready to ensure that our essential law enforcement functions operate effectively. We will work together with our law enforcement partners to punish and deter illegal activity, and we will do so in a manner that promotes everyone’s health and safety. This is not “anything goes” time for criminals.
To that end, we have taken a proactive approach with our justice system partners to provide a coordinated response. Together with the Federal Community Defenders’ Office and the Chief Judge in our District, we are working together to identify the best strategies for making sure that we perform our mission critical functions while taking every precaution to protect those who make our justice system work. We also remain in constant contact with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners and will continue to investigate and prosecute criminals who violate federal law.
Our doors do not close – especially in times of crisis. We will remain vigilant in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting wrongdoing. And we will be particularly ready to act to root out any crimes that feed on, and exploit, the coronavirus pandemic. The Justice Department, and my Office, have received reports of fraudsters seeking to profit financially from the crisis. For example, there have been reports of wrongdoers selling fake cures for the virus online, sending phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to unwitting targets, and engaging in other forms of fraud. There also have been reports of malware being installed onto computers and mobile apps if the recipients of phishing emails click on links or attachments provided.
This Office will perform its public safety function – coronavirus or no coronavirus. And fraudsters and hackers should pay particular attention, as this Office will not tolerate any shameful exploitation of the virus to turn an illegal profit.
We are working with our federal partners to put a stop to any such scams, and we will succeed in doing so. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a coronavirus-related scam, please call the FBI at 215-418-4000 or visit tips.fbi.gov. If the coronavirus scam is specifically Internet-related, please visit the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
We will continue to monitor and respond to this evolving situation and provide updates as needed.
Statement from the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia on COVID-19 Scam Prevention MeasuresRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — As the District of Columbia and this nation face the unprecedented public health emergency posed by the pandemic outbreak of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is working with law enforcement, the court system, and community partners to ensure that essential law enforcement functions continue to operate during the crisis. My Office is committed to safeguarding our justice system and protecting the safety and security of this city and our nation.
Among the threats posed by the COVID-19 outbreak is criminal wrongdoing related to the public health crisis. In particular, we are receiving reports of scams aimed at exploiting fears and spreading disinformation about the pandemic. For example, there are reports of individuals and businesses using the internet to sell fake cures for COVID-19, market products falsely claiming to mitigate COVID-19, and fraudulently retail COVID-19 supplies, such as face masks and hand sanitizer. We are also aware of reports of phishing emails from entities posing as the World Health Organization or the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and reports of malware being inserted onto mobile apps designed to track the spread of the virus. The pandemic is dangerous enough without wrongdoers seeking to profit from public panic. This sort of conduct cannot be tolerated.
The Attorney General has therefore directed every U.S. Attorney’s Office in the country to prioritize the detection, investigation, and prosecution of all criminal conduct related to the current pandemic. My Office intends to do just that. Consistent with the Attorney General’s direction, we are taking the following steps.
First, my Office is committed to pushing back against disinformation campaigns and supporting efforts to educate the public about the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Although our in-person community outreach programs, such as community meetings and school based programs, are curtailed for now, we will work to ensure that citizens in contact with my Office receive truthful information about COVID-19. Let me start by saying this: as public health authorities have said, there is no cure or treatment for COVID-19, there are no home test kits for the disease, and the FDA has not licensed any preventative products. Websites or retailers claiming otherwise are part of a scam. I encourage citizens to consult the website of the CDC for the latest information about COVID-19 and how citizens can prevent its spread. The CDC’s website is available at www.cdc.gov.
Second, as detailed in a joint press release with the District of Columbia’s Office of Attorney General, my Office is partnering with them to detect COVID-19 scams, prevent citizens from falling prey to them, and hold fraudsters accountable. Today, we are launching a COVID-19 Pandemic Fraud Hotline, 202-252-7022 and [email protected] through which citizens can report suspected scams related to the pandemic. The Hotline will prompt callers to leave a message reporting suspected scams, including whatever detailed information they can provide that might aid law enforcement in identifying and stopping fraudsters. We will monitor the Hotline’s voicemail and email accounts and provide appropriate leads to law enforcement partners, such as the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspector, Metropolitan Police Department, and other local and federal authorities. District of Columbia residents can also submit complaints of suspected scams, fraud, or other consumer complaints to the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia by calling its Consumer Protection Hotline at 202-442-9828 or by emailing [email protected].
Third, my Office will appoint a COVID-19 Pandemic Fraud Coordinator, who will lead the investigation and federal prosecution of these frauds in the District of Columbia, and who will serve as the principal liaison with the D.C. Office of the Attorney General, local and federal law enforcement agencies, other U.S. Attorney’s Offices, and the U.S. Department of Justice. The Pandemic Fraud Coordinator will work with these partners to develop strategies to detect fraud schemes and prevent them.
The challenges posed by the spread of COVID-19 threaten the safety and security of the District of Columbia and our nation. My Office will not allow those threats to be multiplied, or for citizens’ understandable anxiety to be exploited, by criminals looking to profit on a public health emergency. We are committed to detecting, investigating, and prosecuting these fraudsters and will devote whatever time, energy, and resources are necessary to do so.
Statement from U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town Regarding Operations as a Result of COVID-19Read the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – “During this time of uncertainty, what is certain is our resolve to protect the citizens of the Northern District of Alabama. We continue to work closely with our federal, state and local partners to protect the public and ensure that mission-critical operations remain constant. The Birmingham and Huntsville offices are open and our operations are in lockstep with guidance issued by the Office of Management and Budget, the Department of Justice, and the federal courts. I am thankful for all of the dedicated public servants who are committed to ensure that the mission of the office is carried out at all times. Members of law enforcement, first responders, and medical personnel continue to race the sunrise each day to keep us safe. We should all be eternally grateful.”
Statement from U.S. Attorney David C. Joseph Regarding Operations as a Result of COVID-19 and a Warning Against Fraud and Scams Related to CoronavirusRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT/LAFAYETTE/ALEXANDRIA/LAKE CHARLES/MONROE, La. – In response to the rapidly changing situation surrounding the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana is continuing operations, while working to mitigate risks to individual employees and the general public.
“My office and our federal law enforcement partners are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation,” said U.S. Attorney David C. Joseph. “The public should rest assured that the U.S. Attorney’s Office remains open and is working on a daily basis with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to protect the public and ensure critical law enforcement operations continue without interruption. I am grateful to our attorneys and staff, as well as our law enforcement partners, for their unwavering dedication and commitment during this time.”
“Unfortunately, in troublesome times there are some in our society who try to take advantage of people with schemes designed to defraud them out of their money,” said Joseph. “People should be aware that there are now fraudsters selling false “cures” for COVID-19. The public should get information related to this coronavirus from reputable sources, such as the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), to avoid falling victim to scams. I would also ask that anyone who believes they have been targeted in any scam to report it to a law enforcement agency at the earliest opportunity.”
You can also learn more about coronavirus scams here: ftc.gov/coronavirus.
The public should continue to monitor the bulletins from the CDC (www.cdc.gov/COVID19) for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the fight against COVID-19.
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St. Francis Man Indicted on Cocaine, Marijuana, and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine and Marijuana, and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Antonio Marshall, age 21, was indicted on March 9, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 13, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on beginning on or about the 1st day of January 2017, through the 1st day of March 2018, Marshall knowingly and intentionally, combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with persons known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana. Further, on January 16, 2018, Marshall, knowing he was an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, knowingly possessed three firearms.
The charges are merely accusations and Marshall is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case.
Marshall was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Heroin Trafficking Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Death, Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Aaron Anthony Wodzinski, age 23, was indicted on March 9, 2020. He appeared before the Honorable Veronica L. Duffy on March 12, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $1 million fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Beginning on an unknown date and continuing until on or about May 2019, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Wodzinski did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate, and agree together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance.
On or about April 23, 2018, Wodzinski did knowingly and intentionally distribute heroin, and the distribution of said heroin resulted in the death of Victim #1. Then, on or about May 6, 2019, in the District of South Dakota, Wodzinski did knowingly and intentionally distribute heroin, and the distribution of said heroin resulted in the serious bodily injury of Victim #2.
The charge is merely an accusation and Wodzinski is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force and Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga is prosecuting the case.
Wodzinski was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Charged as Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
Levi Shanteau, age 24, was indicted on March 3, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on March 16, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on January 30, 2020, Shanteau, who had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a Taurus semi-automatic pistol, that had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge is merely an accusation and Shanteau is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Shanteau was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Charged as Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
Joseph Mogoliolo, age 49, was indicted on March 3, 2020. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on March 12, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, a maximum term of 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on October 24, 2019, Mogoliolo, who had been previously convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a Ruger, model SR9C, semi-automatic pistol. Said firearm had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge is merely an accusation and Mogoliolo is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case is also part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department's past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Mogoliolo was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Shreveport Man Convicted of Six Gunpoint Robberies and Firearms CrimesRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Following a four-day trial on Thursday, March 12, 2020, a federal jury in Shreveport convicted Christopher M.K. Dumas, 29, of Hobbs Act robbery, conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, and related firearms crimes for his participation in five gunpoint robberies in Shreveport and one in Marshall, Texas, announced United States Attorney David C. Joseph.
The evidence at trial established that between March 17, 2017 and April 15, 2017, Dumas robbed at gunpoint, a Metro PCS store, H&S Grocery and Liquor, Inc., Werner Park Grocery, and Rodeway Inn & Suites, all located in Shreveport, and a Boost Mobile store in Marshall, Texas.
“The jury’s verdict holds this defendant responsible for his crime spree that terrorized his victims and the communities in which he operated,” said U.S. Attorney Joseph. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to remove violent offenders from our streets. I would like to thank the prosecutors in my office for a job well done and the law enforcement officers for their hard work investigating this case.”
On March 17, 2017, and March 20, 2017, Dumas entered a Metro PCS store waving a .38 Colt Army revolver, demanding the money from the register and safe. He told one employee to put the money in the bag or he would shoot him in the leg. On March 17, Dumas left with $2,568 and on March 20, with $400. Dumas held-up an H&S Grocery and Liquor clerk at gunpoint on March 30, 3017, and told the clerk “give me all the money or I’ll shoot you.” The clerk gave Dumas all of the cash ($400) in the register.
On April 1, 2017, after having met with his parole officer earlier that morning, Dumas traveled to Marshall, Texas, where he robbed a Boost Mobile store. Dumas entered the store, leaped over the sales counter and pointed a.38 Colt revolver at the store clerk, demanding cash from the register. A neighboring business owner heard the store clerk scream and came to aid her. Dumas shot the business owner hitting him twice in the chest and then fled from the scene. A silver Nissan Versa with a dent on the driver’s side door was seen in the area before, during, and after the robbery and was captured on the surveillance cameras of the Greenwood Police Department traveling back to Shreveport.
On April 4, 2017, Dumas and his co-defendant Stafford King, robbed Werner Park Grocery at gunpoint. King put the revolver against the head of a store clerk and told the clerk to give him money. Dumas pointed his gun at another clerk’s head while also demanding money. Both defendants ran out of the store with an unknown amount of money and got into a silver car with a dent on the left side. On April 15, 2017, Dumas pointed a gun at a Rodeway Inn employee and demanded the money from the register. The clerk complied with Dumas’ demands and Dumas got away with $554. On March 20 and April 15, Dumas was also seen getting into a silver car with damage on the left side. Each robbery was captured by video surveillance.
Later on April 25, 2017, a Shreveport police officer saw the silver Nissan Versa matching the description from the robberies and pulled it over after a traffic violation. King was driving and Dumas was in the passenger seat. Law enforcement officers recovered hoodies, bandanas, and gloves from the car that matched descriptions from the robberies. Police also located 9 millimeter ammunition, consistent with a TEC-9 semi-automatic pistol used in the Werner Park and Rodeway Inn robberies and three other weapons from the Nissan Versa.
Dumas, a previously convicted felon, was on state parole for simple burglary and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon at the time of the robberies. He was released on parole in January 2017 and started robbing in March.
Chief U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. presided over the trial and set Christopher Dumas’ sentencing for July 22, 2020. Dumas faces 20 years in prison on each Hobbs Act robbery conviction and ten years imprisonment for being a felon in possession of ammunition. In addition, Dumas faces a mandatory minimum of ten years imprisonment for the armed robberies involving a TEC-9, and a mandatory, minimum of seven years imprisonment for the three remaining armed robbery convictions. Each conviction for using a weapon during a crime of violence carries with it a possibility of up to life in prison. Dumas also faces three to five years of supervised release for the various counts of conviction and a $250,000 fine.
Dumas’ co-defendant, Stafford King, pleaded guilty on August 12, 2019, to one violation each of the Hobbs Act and using of a firearm during a crime of violence. King’s sentencing is set for April 9, 2020. King has prior felony convictions for possession of a firearm with an obliterated number, possession of marijuana, illegal possession of stolen things and attempted battery.
The FBI, ATF, Shreveport Police Department, Marshall, Texas Police Department, and Greenwood Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cytheria D. Jernigan and Leon H. Whitten are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
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Rochester-Area Man Indicted for Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Michael Bartusek, age 57, of Fairport, New York, was arrested yesterday on an indictment alleging wire fraud and money laundering stemming from his work as Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) for a business in New Hartford, New York. The announcement was made by 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 indictment alleges that Bartusek was formerly the CFO of a company based in New Hartford, New York, and covertly diverted approximately $776,000 of the firm’s money for personal expenses and to make a high-risk investment in African diamonds for his own benefit.
The charges filed against Bartusek carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the loss suffered by the victim, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. 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.
Bartusek was arraigned yesterday in Syracuse, before United States Magistrate Judge Thérèse Wiley Dancks and was released pending a trial before Senior United States District Court Judge Thomas J. McAvoy.
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Gadarian and Nico Commandeur.
Pittsburgh Man Charged with Robbing Two Banks and Two Convenience StoresRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of armed bank robbery and the robbery of multiple convenience stores, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The four-count Indictment, returned on Feb. 18 and unsealed today, named Michael Eric Buchanan, Jr., 36, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from Oct. 23, 2019 through Nov. 20, 2019, Buchanan robbed two banks (using an apparent bomb) and two conveniences stores. Specifically, the indictment alleges that on Oct. 23, 2019, Buchanan robbed the First National Bank on East Carson Street in Pittsburgh; On Nov. 4, 2019 Buchanan robbed the Citizens Bank in Turtle Creek; on Nov. 16, Buchanan robbed the Uni-Mart on Brownsville Road in Pittsburgh; and on Nov. 20, 2019, Buchanan robbed the Dollar Eagle Discounts store on Broadway Avenue in Pittsburgh’s Beechview neighborhood.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 45 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Philadelphia Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Philadelphia, Pa., pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Gerald Terry, 51, pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, between March 30, 2018, and April 4, 2018, Gerald Terry and a co-conspirator conspired to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute more than 500 grams of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and cocaine. Further, on April 4, 2018, they were found in possession of a loaded Smith & Wesson M&P Shield .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 13, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of life in prison, a fine of $15,250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Laurel Highlands Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police SHIELD Unit and Somerset Turnpike Barracks conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Terry.
Oklahoma City Man to Serve 108 Months for Possessing a Firearm After a Prior Felony ConvictionRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, DEREK MICHAEL JONES, 38, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison for possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.
Jones was indicted in August 2019 with one count of possession of a firearm after a felony conviction, which stemmed from his May 2019 arrest by Oklahoma City Police Department officers. According to argument made at sentencing, Jones shot at two men after they confronted him about a domestic violence incident. Jones had been previously convicted of felony conviction for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Oklahoma County in 2012. Federal firearms laws prohibit convicted felons from possessing firearms or ammunition.
On September 16, 2019, Jones pled guilty to the indictment. Yesterday, U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Jones to serve 108 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. In imposing the sentence, the Court considered the fact that Jones’ fired five shots at two men and also his four prior domestic violence convictions.
This case is the result of investigations by the Oklahoma City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Wilson D. McGarry prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiatives to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. The local implementation of these initiatives in the Western District of Oklahoma is through "Operation 922" which prioritizes prosecution of federal gun crimes connected to domestic violence.
Nevada U.S. Attorney Appoints Prosecutor to Fight COVID-19 FraudRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced the appointment of a COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator to lead investigations and prosecutions of fraud related to the pandemic, and to work with our partners to develop strategies to detect and prevent fraud schemes.
“Wrongdoers seeking to take advantage of individuals – through fraud or force – during this health crisis are now on notice,” U.S. Attorney Trutanich stated. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator will be working with law enforcement at all levels to investigate and prosecute those who exploit the fears of Nevadans for personal gain. This conduct will not be tolerated in Nevada.”
As the State of Nevada and this nation face the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada wants to reinforce to the citizens of Nevada that law enforcement functions and our federal justice system continue to operate effectively during the crisis. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners are committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the safety and security of Nevadans.
As this is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation, we have adapted operations for the health and safety of our personnel. We are executing on the guidance of the U.S. Attorney General, which makes clear that the critical mission of the Department of Justice — protecting the public — will continue. We are also working closely with the court and other stakeholders on appropriate precautions to protect the health of those who practice in and come before the court.
In addition to ensuring that the federal justice system continues to function, the U.S. Attorney’s Office remains vigilant in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting wrongdoing arising from the crisis. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has made a priority all criminal conduct related to the current pandemic. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will protect Nevadans from fraudsters and criminals who seek to exploit this crisis for their profit and personal advantage. We stand ready to hold accountable wrongdoers who take advantage of emergency response efforts and violate the public safety and other laws of the United States in connection with the manufacturing, distribution, or sale of public health products such as face masks, respirators, and diagnostics.
Nevadans are reminded that the best source of information for prevention and treatment of COVID-19 remains the CDC's website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/indcx.html.
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Mt. Vernon Woman Sentenced to 30 Months for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced a Mt. Vernon, South Dakota, woman was sentenced on March 16, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Nancy Tingle, age 54, of, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison as a result of her conviction for Health Care Fraud. Following her release from custody, Tingle will serve 3 years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $462,811.55 and a special assessment of $100.
According to court documents, between on or about 2012 and continuing until the Fall of 2018, Tingle worked as the business office manager at Firesteel Healthcare Community in Mitchell, South Dakota. Tingle defrauded Firesteel Healthcare Community out of Medicaid funds intended for Firesteel Healthcare Community. She knew that she was not authorized to receive the funds and fraudulently used them for personal items and expenditures. The loss attributable to Tingle’s fraudulent conduct exceeded $467,000. She also failed to pay taxes on the taxable income that she obtained through fraud, resulting in over $100,000 in unpaid taxes.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri.
Tingle was released on bond and ordered to self-surrender to the U.S. Marshals Service to begin her sentence in 60 days.
Mt. Lebanon Real Estate Developer Sentenced for Illegally Removing Asbestos from Former Westinghouse FacilityRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court for violating the Clean Air Act, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti sentenced Vikas Jain, 48, to one month of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release that will include nine months of home detention.
In connection with the defendant’s guilty plea and sentencing, the Court was advised that the defendant controlled various business entities focusing primarily on residential and commercial real estate development and management. In approximately May 2012, the defendant, through one such entity, purchased the George Westinghouse Research and Technology Park (the Westinghouse Facility), a multi-building commercial and industrial complex located on approximately 150 acres in Churchill, Pennsylvania. The Westinghouse Facility was built between approximately the 1950s and 1970s, and it comprised over one million square feet of testing, laboratory, and office space across more than a dozen buildings. As the defendant acknowledged, he sought to redevelop the Westinghouse Facility and surrounding property for commercial and residential mixed-use purposes.
The defendant further admitted that, prior to completing the purchase of the Westinghouse Facility, he obtained the results of an earlier environmental assessment of the property, which identified the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in, among other substances, floor tile and pipe insulation located throughout the complex. Between approximately May 2012 and February 2017, the defendant, through entities he controlled, leased space at the Westinghouse Facility to third-party tenants, including television production companies. For the most part, however, the Westinghouse Facility remained unused and unoccupied.
In connection with one licensing agreement in approximately 2015, the defendant obtained two asbestos-abatement permits from the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) allowing for the proper removal of ACM in portions of two of the buildings at the Westinghouse Facility. The removal was completed by a licensed abatement contractor. Later, in early 2017, the defendant, through a contractor working on the redevelopment project, obtained a proposal from a different licensed abatement entity to inspect another building that the defendant intended to demolish. The proposal was never consummated.
Rather, as the defendant admitted, beginning no later than approximately February 1, 2017, and continuing until February 28, 2017, he directed various workers to remove previously unabated ACM from two buildings at the Westinghouse Facility, including large quantities of ACM floor tiles, mastic, and pipe insulation. The defendant further directed a worker to rent floor grinders, which the workers then used to remove and pulverize ACM floor tiles and mastic. The defendant did not apply for or obtain an ACHD permit for the abatement activity, and workers conducted the removal of ACM without proper protective clothing or adequate respirators. Once removed, ACM debris was placed in black trash bags and taken by workers via a pick-up truck to a dumpster located outside of one of the defendant’s residential rental properties. As the defendant admitted, the contents of the dumpster, including trash bags containing ACM, were subsequently taken to a local landfill that was not qualified to receive asbestos-contaminated waste.
Finally, the defendant admitted that, after local Churchill authorities and ACHD investigators learned of the illegal asbestos abatement, he took steps to conceal the nature and extent of the removal activity, including by causing grinders to be removed from the Westinghouse Facility, cleaned, and, as to two grinders, returned to the equipment rental company prior to inspection by ACHD. At no time did the defendant inform ACHD that the grinders he presented for subsequent inspection had been cleaned of ACM or otherwise were not the same ones that had been used in the Westinghouse Facility.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government, with assistance from Perry D. McDaniel, Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel of the Environmental Protection Agency. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation of the defendant.
Medical Practice to Pay $425,000 to Settle False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
Montgomery, AL – On Monday, March 16, 2020, Mulberry Medical Associates, P.C. agreed to pay $425,000 in a civil settlement to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act, announced Acting United States Attorney Sandra J. Stewart. The alleged false claims involved the importation and distribution of foreign, non-Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved pharmaceutical products prohibited under the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
Mulberry Medical Associates, P.C. is a group medical practice in Montgomery, Alabama, which specializes in internal medicine.
The government’s investigation revealed that Mulberry Medical Associates purchased and administered certain unlicensed and foreign-made pharmaceutical products, or “subject products,” that were meant to be distributed only in foreign markets. These subject products were less expensive than their FDA counterparts marketed in the United States and included versions of Orthovisc, Supartz, Prolia, and Aclasta, which are used to treat patients with osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.
The settlement addresses allegations that, from September 2011 through March 2017, Mulberry Medical Associates knowingly submitted false claims for and related to the use of the subject products to Medicare, Medicaid and the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP). Federal health care programs reimburse for prescription drugs at a set rate based on the average sales price of the respective FDA approved, physician-administered drug in the United States. Therefore, Mulberry Medical Associates was able to profit from the margin between the reimbursement rates received based on FDA approved drugs, and the lower amounts paid for the unauthorized subject products. The United States contends that the subject products were not eligible for reimbursement by the federal health care programs because they had not received final marketing approval from the FDA.
“This settlement shows that the United States government is working to identify companies that place profit ahead of patient safety, and hold them accountable,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Stewart. “Maximizing revenues by skirting regulations that are designed to protect patients has no place in our healthcare system. Companies should never allow financial considerations to influence their decision-making process when the health and welfare of the American citizen is at stake.”
“Doctors are entrusted with caring for their patients and obtaining and using safe, U.S. approved drugs on their patients,” said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General in Atlanta. “Mulberry Medical Associates put their financial gain above the health and safety of local residents. HHS-OIG continues to focus resources on those who obtain and use unapproved drugs on patients. Patient safety is a top priority.”
“The OPM OIG will always prioritize protecting patients from harm,” said Thomas W. South, Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Investigations, OPM OIG. “The use of unapproved drugs on patients will not be tolerated and we will always devote our resources to holding these unscrupulous providers accountable.”
This Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management-Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration-Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Health Care Fraud Investigator of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Stephen D. Wadsworth of the Office’s Civil Division.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Man from Albuquerque faces federal charges for allegedly posting Facebook messages threatening to kill the Governor of New Mexico and law enforcement officersRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Daniel Mock, 33, of Albuquerque, New Mexico appeared in federal court in Albuquerque today for an initial appearance on a criminal complaint charging him with posting messages on Facebook threatening to kill the Governor of New Mexico, Michelle Lujan Grisham, and law enforcement officers, in violation of federal law.
The criminal complaint charges Mock with allegedly transmitting threatening communications in interstate or foreign commerce. According to the complaint, Mock allegedly posted threatening messages to the governor’s Facebook page on Mar. 2 and Mar. 13.
Mock is currently in custody pending a detention hearing on Friday. He faces up to five years in prison if convicted of this offense. A criminal complaint is only an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The FBI investigated this case with the U.S. Marshals Service, the New Mexico State Police, and the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jaymie L. Roybal is prosecuting the case.
daniel_mock_comp_cmecf.pdfLas Vegas and Tennessee Residents Sentenced to Prison for Roles in Fraudulent Scheme Targeting Small Business OwnersRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Jason Demko, a Canadian national currently residing in Las Vegas, and Michael Guariglia, of Buffalo Valley, Tennessee, were sentenced today to 46 months in prison and five years of probation, respectively, for defrauding small business owners of nearly 12 million dollars, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse of the FBI.
“Small businesses are an important part of all communities in Nevada and across the country,” said U.S. Attorney Trutanich. “Among other things, they create meaningful jobs, support local neighborhoods, and provide opportunities for entrepreneurs. We appreciate the opportunity to partner with the FBI in bringing these defendants, who targeted small business owners, to justice.”
“The FBI will pursue those who plan, scheme and defraud innocent people for their own personal gain,” said Special Agent in Charge Rouse. “I'd like to thank the men and women of the FBI who work hard every day to identify and apprehend those responsible for taking advantage of trusting citizens; in this case small business owners."
Demko, 43, pleaded guilty on February 14, 2018, and Guariglia, 53, pleaded guilty on March 20, 2018. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Kent J. Dawson ordered both men to pay restitution (jointly and severally) in the amount of $11,509,087. Demko was also ordered to pay a criminal forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $307,060, and Guariglia was ordered to pay a criminal forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $68,666.
According to court documents, from about December 2009 to February 2014, Demko, Guariglia, their co-defendants, and others operated a telemarketing scam commonly known as the “grant-fee scam” targeting small business owners. In the grant-fee scam, criminals contact small business owners claiming to act as a broker for corporations, charitable foundations, or government agencies looking to give money away. The criminals ask the victims about their businesses, then claim to have found high dollar grants matching the victims’ businesses. For a substantial fee, the criminals offer to file the paperwork needed to obtain the grants, promising that the cost of their services will be covered by the grants the victims will assuredly receive. In reality, no such grants exist. The criminals simply take the victims’ money.
Often, criminals carrying out grant-fee scams then embark on a campaign of “lulling” and “reloading.” Lulling is a series of excuses and distractions designed to make the victims believe that the promised grants are imminent, if only this bit of paperwork or that action were completed. The main purpose of lulling is to delay the victims’ actions to recover the funds and delay the victims’ reports of the crime to law enforcement. Lulling is often done hand-in-hand with reloading, thus scamming more money from victims to pay additional sums for “unanticipated” documents or tax charges to obtain the promised grants. In reality, no such documents or tax charges are needed because no grants exist. Again, the criminals simply take the victims’ money.
Demko, sometimes using the alias Jeff Ross, together with Guariglia, their co-defendants, and others, defrauded hundreds of individuals and families out of nearly 12 million dollars. To carry out their scheme, Demko, Guariglia, their co-defendants, and others made false representations and promises to small business owners to persuade and induce them to pay initial fees, usually between $2,500 and $5,000, for goods and services the victims thought would help them obtain grants for their businesses. The small business owners were told that the total cost for obtaining a grant was between $10,000 and $15,000, depending on the total amount of funding requested, and that the remaining fees would not be charged until the owners received 100 percent of the grant funding. Among other things, Demko, Guariglia, and their co-defendants falsely stated that they had obtained grants for other clients, when in fact they had not done so. The defendants also re-solicited clients for additional fees, including fees for business plans, when they knew that the plans were not going to assist the clients in obtaining any grants. They knew that the true purpose of their solicitations was to obtain funds to personally enrich themselves.
Demko, Guariglia, and their co-defendants operated their scam under JCD Business Services; Foundation Processing Center; Summit Business Consultants, Inc.; Inner Circle Corp., LLC; Sierra Investment Group, Inc.; Valley Business Development; Quid Corp.; Interlan Charitable Foundation; Interlan Financial Corporation; Compass National, LLC; Compass National, Inc.; Direct Business Company, Inc.; Goldcom LLC; and Company Planning LLC.
Co-defendants Lorraine Riddiough (Demko’s mother, a Canadian national residing in Las Vegas who also goes by the name Lorraine Ann Mader) and Lissette Alvarez (a Las Vegas resident) have pleaded guilty. Alvarez was sentenced to three years probation. Riddiough is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dawson on March 19, 2020.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI urge the public to be alert to potential scams. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The Federal Trade Commission posts alerts describing many different types of scams on its website at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a scam, please contact law enforcement without delay.
The case is a result of an investigation by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Cowhig and Kimberly Frayn prosecuted the case.
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Kalamazoo Man Gets 27 Years for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN - U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge announced that Anthony Donal Short, 39, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, was sentenced to serve 27 years in the Federal Bureau of Prisons for coercing and using a minor to produce child pornography. U.S. District Judge Paul L. Maloney also imposed a period of supervised release of 8 years to follow his incarceration.
In sentencing Short, Judge Maloney stated that he was troubled by Short’s abuse and exploitation of a child in his care and the betrayal of trust. Short came to the attention of law enforcement after the victim reported to law enforcement that she had been sexually molested by Short while they were living in Alaska. The FBI confronted Short and he admitted to taking sexually explicit images of the victim. Forensic examination of his computers and cell phones confirmed the crimes. In October 2019, Short pleaded guilty to producing child pornography of the child in January and March 2013, when she was 10 years old, and producing more pornographic images of the child in February 2015, when she was 12.
In announcing the sentence, Birge stated, "Short betrayed the fundamental trust of a child and used her for his own depraved purposes. We will always hold producers of child pornography accountable and seek justice on behalf of the victims."
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor's offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit the following web site: www.projectsafechildhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Mekaru and investigated by the FBI.
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Illinois Man Sentenced for Simple Possession of FentanylRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Marshall D. Miller, age 44, of Illinois, was sentenced on Monday, March 16th, to time served (i.e. 69 days) in prison for simple possession of fentanyl, by Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon, announced United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert. Judge Cannon also sentenced Miller to a term of supervised release to end upon completion of an inpatient substance abuse program at The Village, Virgin Islands Partners in Recovery but not to exceed one year, and ordered him to pay a fine of $1,000.000 and a special assessment of $25.00.
According to court records, a Virgin Islands police officer encountered Miller on January 7, 2020 as he walked towards the Limetree Bay housing facilities in St. Croix. The officer noticed that Miller was wobbling and appeared strange. He approached and inquired whether Miller required assistance and eventually called the ambulance for him. While awaiting arrival of the ambulance, Miller withdrew five plastic baggies from his pockets and threw them on the ground. The baggies contained fentanyl weighing about .7 grams. Miller arrived in St. Croix from Illinois in December of 2019 and was employed by a subcontractor of Limetree Bay. He was a resident of the Limetree Bay housing facility.
This case is the first federal case filed in the Virgin Islands involving fentanyl. In an effort to avoid an adverse impact of the deadly street drug on the Virgin Islands community, the U.S. Attorney’s office will continue to vigorously prosecute those who possess or sell it. Anyone with information that may assist investigators regarding fentanyl or other illegal drugs is encouraged to contact the DEA tip line at www.dea.gov/submit-tip.
The case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alphonso G. Andrews, Jr.
Former Security Guard Sentenced for Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
Defendant had been involuntarily committed to a mental institution
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S Attorney Andrew Birge announced that Joseph James Shingola II, 50, of Comstock Park, Michigan, was sentenced today to 36 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Judge Janet T. Neff. Shingola was committed to a mental institution by the Kent County Probate Court in 1988, after he accidentally shot and killed his best friend. For much of his adult life he was employed as an armed security guard, and had a permit to carry a concealed weapon off duty. Shingola obtained the permit and his weapons by concealing his commitment on applications and background check forms. The commitment was filed before such orders were routinely shared with law enforcement.
In August 2018, agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) received a tip that Shingola was a prohibited person in possession of firearms. They learned he had several prior firearms-related contacts with local law enforcement, including recently showing a woman a pistol after a traffic dispute. When agents went to talk to Shingola at his house, he refused, and drove away to hide his weapons at his mother’s house. ATF executed search warrants and recovered an AR-15 style semiautomatic assault rifle, two semiautomatic pistols, several other long guns, magazines and ammunition.
While awaiting trial, Shingola asked his 17-year-old daughter to buy him a gun in her name when she turned 18. She refused and told her mother, whom he assaulted when she confronted him. Shingola afterward pled guilty to domestic violence assault in the 63rd District Court (Kent County) and pled guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of firearms in U.S. District Court. In imposing the three-year sentence, Judge Neff noted the defendant’s history of impulsive and violent behavior, and said "deterrence and protection of the public are of paramount importance." She recommended the Bureau of Prisons house him at a facility specializing in mental health treatment and counseling.
"Consistent with the Department’s Project Guardian, we’re prioritizing the enforcement of federal laws that prohibit possession of a firearm, such as by felons and the mentally ill. Those laws exist for good reason: the risk to the safety of the community," said Birge.
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Former Journalist Convicted at Trial for Attempted Child EnticementRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that PETER BRIGHT, a former technology editor for an online publication, was convicted in Manhattan federal court Monday of attempted child enticement. BRIGHT was convicted after a one-week jury trial before U.S. District Judge P. Kevin Castel.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “As the jury found, Peter Bright attempted the basest type of crime, arranging to engage in sex with young children. Thanks to the FBI, Bright is in custody and facing serious prison time.”
According to the allegations contained in the Complaint, Indictment, and the evidence presented at trial:
In April 2019, BRIGHT reached out online to an undercover agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), who was posing as the mother of a 7-year-old girl and 9-year-old boy (the “Minors”). Over the course of hundreds of chat communications, BRIGHT discussed with the undercover agent BRIGHT’s plan to meet the Minors to engage in sexual activity. BRIGHT also requested photographs of the Minors.
In May 2019, BRIGHT met the undercover agent at a public park in New York, New York, for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with the Minors. As BRIGHT and the undercover agent began walking to the Minors’ residence, BRIGHT was arrested.
* * *
BRIGHT, 39, of Brooklyn, New York, was convicted of one count of attempted enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. The maximum potential sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
BRIGHT is scheduled to be sentenced on June 29, 2020, at 11:30 a.m.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Alexander Li, Michael D. Maimin, and Timothy T. Howard, and paralegal specialist Ariella Fetman, are in charge of the prosecution.
Felon who opened fire in neighborhood, possessed 12 guns sentenced to prisonRead the Press Release
DAYTON – Bruce Long, 49, of Dayton, was sentenced in federal court this afternoon to 78 months in prison for possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of felony offenses.
According to court documents, on Sept. 27, 2018, Dayton Police dispatchers received multiple complaints that evening about gunfire in the area of Anna and Second streets. Eyewitnesses observed Long firing a rifle towards an individual near Anna Street. Dayton Police officers also discovered shell casings at the shooting location.
Shortly thereafter, officers encountered Long at his nearby residence and ultimately arrested him. While executing a search warrant at his home, police discovered 12 firearms possessed by Long, including a stolen firearm and a rifle with a large-capacity magazine. Long has six prior felony convictions involving drugs, guns, or violence.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Justice Department reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
David M. DeVillers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jonathan McPherson, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); and Dayton Police Chief Richard S. Biehl announced the sentence imposed this afternoon by U.S. District Court Judge Walter H. Rice. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Hunt is representing the United States in this case.
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Federal Court Orders Texas Home Health Care Services Company to Pay Employment TaxesRead the Press Release
On March 18, a federal court ordered El Mundo Feliz, a Partnership (El Mundo), and Daniel Martinez Jr. to begin paying employment taxes to the United States on a timely basis, the Justice Department announced today.
The judgment and permanent injunction by consent, entered by Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, requires El Mundo and Martinez to deposit and pay all employment taxes and make all related tax return filings, and requires Martinez to provide an affidavit to the government on a monthly basis stating that they have done so. The injunction is effective immediately. The order specifies that violation of the injunction may result in civil and criminal sanctions.
According to the government’s complaint, El Mundo, operated by Martinez, provides home adult day care services, with an office located in Brownsville, Texas. The complaint alleges that, for 24 quarters spanning 2012 to 2019, Martinez and the company failed to make required employment tax deposits to the United States, a practice known as “pyramiding.” The complaint further alleges that the defendants’ misconduct has resulted in a balance due to the government of more than $600,000. The court entered judgment in favor of the United States for that amount, as well as for nearly $40,000 in delinquent unemployment taxes, penalties and interest.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Federal Charges Filed Against Roberts County Man for Aggravated Assault and Felony Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Roberts County, South Dakota, man has been charged with Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Felony Child Abuse and Neglect of a Child.
Michael Robinson, a/k/a Michael O’Brien, Jr., age 21, was indicted on January 7, 2020. He appeared before the U.S. Magistrate Judge in Minneapolis, Minnesota, following his arrest, and he pled not guilty to the Indictment.
According to the Indictment, on October 3, 2019, Robinson engaged in assaultive and abusive conduct toward a child under the age of seven years. For each charge, the maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum of 10 years, a monetary fine, or both, and 3 years of supervised release. Each charge also carries a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations and Robinson is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe’s Law Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Jehangiri is prosecuting the case.
Robinson was released on conditions pending trial and ordered to appear in federal court in Aberdeen, South Dakota, on March 31, 2020.
Ex-Stockbrokers Convicted of Conspiring with Long Island Boiler Rooms to Dump Stock on Unsuspecting InvestorsRead the Press Release
Following a six-week trial, a federal jury in Central Islip, New York returned a guilty verdict today on all counts against former registered stock brokers Jeffrey Chartier and Lawrence Isen for their roles in a conspiracy to manipulate and fraudulently promote shares of publicly traded companies Hydrocarb Energy Corp. (HECC), CES Synergies, Inc. (CESX), National Waste Management Holdings, Inc. (NWMH) and Intelligent Content Enterprises, Inc. (ICEIF). Specifically, the defendants were convicted of money laundering conspiracy, wire fraud conspiracy, securities fraud conspiracy, securities fraud and money laundering. Chartier was additionally convicted of attempted obstruction of an official proceeding based upon lies he told to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) after his arrest in this case.
When sentenced by United States District Judge Joanna Seybert, the defendants each face a maximum sentence of more than 20 years’ imprisonment.
Richard P. Donoghue, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the verdict.
“Chartier, Isen and their co-conspirators lied to investors, including elderly victims, but the jurors here saw the truth – that these defendants were brazenly stealing money through fraudulent investment schemes,” stated United States Attorney Donoghue. Mr. Donoghue thanked the FBI for leading the investigation, and expressed his appreciation to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., Criminal Prosecution Assistance Group (FINRA CPAG) for their cooperation and assistance.
From 2013 to 2017, Chartier, Isen and two boiler rooms located in Plainview and Melville, New York – known as, among other names, Elite Stock Research and Power Traders Press – artificially inflated the price and trading volume of the four stocks. They did so through a cold-calling campaign that used lies and high-pressure sales tactics to lure victims, many of whom were elderly, into purchasing stock. The conspiracy’s market manipulation fraudulently inflated the stock price of the four stocks by more than $147 million.
Chartier, who became a major shareholder in CESX and NWMH after persuading those companies to retain him to help take them public, used the boiler rooms to dump nearly $2 million worth of those companies’ shares on unsuspecting victims. He also sold stock to individuals in private transactions without telling them that the stock had been manipulated to trade at an artificially high price and volume. Using some of the proceeds from his fraudulent scheme, he purchased a $350,000 luxury RV equipped with a flat screen television and a fireplace, which he used as a traveling office.
After Chartier was arrested in July 2017, and after waiving his Miranda rights, he lied to FBI Special Agents about his and others’ involvement in the scheme, including that he sold NWMH shares only via purchase agreements.
Isen, who was barred from acting as a broker by FINRA in 1996 and convicted of wire fraud conspiracy in the Southern District of New York in 2000, orchestrated the manipulation of stock belonging to, among others, major HECC shareholder Michael Watts and major ICEIF shareholders located in India. Watts was previously convicted in October 2019 for his role in the stock manipulation scheme following a month-long jury trial and is awaiting sentencing.
Chartier and Isen are the 15th and 16th defendants convicted in this case. Four defendants have been sentenced for their roles in the scheme: Ronald Hardy was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment; Dennis Verderosa was sentenced to six years’ imprisonment; McArthur Jean was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment; and Emin Cohen was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Whitman G.S. Knapp and Kaitlin T. Farrell are in charge of the prosecution. Assistant United States Attorney Tanisha R. Payne of the Office’s Asset Forfeiture Section is handling the forfeiture matters.
The Defendants:
JEFFREY CHARTIER
Age: 56
Los Angeles, CaliforniaLAWRENCE ISEN
Age: 66
San Diego, CaliforniaDefendants Who Were Previously Convicted:
RONALD HARDY
Age: 44
Port Jefferson, New YorkMCARTHUR JEAN (also known as “John McArthur”)
Age: 37
Dix Hills, New YorkSTEPHANIE LEE
Age: 48
St. Petersburg, FloridaERIK MATZ
Age: 46
Mt. Sinai, New YorkBRIAN HEEPKE (also known as “Brian Targis”)
Age: 39
Farmingdale, New YorkDENNIS VERDEROSA
Age: 79
Coram, New YorkEMIN L. COHEN (also known as “Ian Grant”)
Age: 36
Coram, New YorkPAUL EWER
Age: 39
Massapequa, New YorkASHLEY ANTOS
Age: 28
Central Islip, New YorkSERGIO RAMIREZ
Age: 46
East Meadow, New YorkROBERT GILBERT
Age: 53
Cold Spring Harbor, New YorkANTHONY VASSALLO
Age: 56
Farmingdale, New YorkMICHAEL WATTS
Age: 63
Sugarland, TexasDocket No. 17-CR-372 (S-3) (JS)
Duo Convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Crack Cocaine After Jury TrialRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Antonio Walton, age 43, and Charles Gould, age 36, both of Gary, Indiana, were convicted, late last night, after a jury trial in the Hammond District Court of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base, commonly known as crack cocaine, announced United States Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II.
U.S. District Court Judge Philip P. Simon presided over this 6-day jury trial.
According to documents in this case, from July 2015 through November 2016, Walton and Gould conspired with other individuals in Gary, Indiana, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine. As part of the conspiracy, cocaine was cooked into crack cocaine, packaged for sale, and distributed by members of the conspiracy in Gary’s Glen Park neighborhood, with armed individuals serving as security for the twenty-four hour a day drug operation. During the investigation, law enforcement executed search warrants at five separate locations and recovered approximately 300 grams of crack cocaine packaged for sale, packaging materials, money, paraphernalia used to cook cocaine into crack cocaine, and a 33-page drug ledger. It is estimated that gross drug sales ran into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Walton has prior felony convictions for dealing in cocaine, distribution of marijuana, and possession of ammunition as a felon.
To date, seventeen other charged members of the conspiracy have been convicted of drug-related offenses in this case.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Gang Response Investigative Team with the assistance of the Gary and Hobart Police Departments. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas R. Mahoney and Alexandra McTague.
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Convicted Child Molester Pleads Guilty in Johnstown, PA to Possessing Child Pornography, Illegal Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Somerset County pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating child pornography and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
William M. Jones, 51, of Stoystown, Pa., pleaded guilty to the indictment before United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson.
In connection with the guilty plea, on September 18, 2019, knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Further, Jones was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition. In 2003, Jones was convicted in Howard County, Indiana, of child molestation, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms.
Judge Gibson scheduled sentencing for August 12, 2020, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Jones is detained and was ordered to remain detained pending sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Department of Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Jones.
City of Margate Police Officer Charged with Soliciting A Minor for Visual Depictions of Sexually Explicit ConductRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the arrest and charging by criminal complaint of Andrew Christian Hammock (46, Boca Raton) with soliciting visual depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. If convicted, Hammock faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years, and up to, 30 years in federal prison and a potential life term of supervised release.
According to the
complaint , Hammock was employed by the Margate Police Department as a police officer. From February 14 through March 17, 2020, Hammock engaged in chats using a social media application with whom he believed to be a 14-year-old female child. Hammock solicited the child to produce and send him child pornography on multiple occasions and indicated his desire to engage in sexual conduct with the “child,” who was actually an undercover FBI agent. Hammock was arrested at the City of Margate Police Department on March 17, 2020.This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Jacksonville Office), with assistance from the Margate Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly S. Karase.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
California man sentenced for hacking an Atlanta-based companyRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Christian William Kight, a/k/a Drillo, has been sentenced for extortion, computer fraud, and wire fraud for hacking into an Atlanta-based computer analytics company and attempting to extort money from the company in exchange for the return of their intellectual property.
“This defendant hid behind his computer to extort companies in this district and elsewhere,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “As a result of the exemplary work of law enforcement and the cooperation of the victim, he is headed to federal prison. This case highlights the positive outcomes that are possible for businesses and the community when the private sector works with law enforcement to bring cyber criminals to justice.”
“Kight’s scheme against this company is unfortunately all too common and highlights the ever-growing need to remain vigilant in cybersecurity efforts”, said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Hopefully this sentence sends a message to the thieves hiding behind their computers, if you violate our laws, the FBI will make sure you pay the price.”
“Computer hacking is a serious crime, and the theft of intellectual property threatens the fabric of our economy. The partnership between the Georgia Attorney General’s Office and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is just one example of law enforcement working together to keep Georgia citizens, individual and corporate, safe,” said Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr.
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges and other information presented in court: Kight gained unauthorized access to the computer networks and servers of multiple companies and organizations, including a computer analytics company in the Northern District of Georgia. Once on the victim’s network, Kight concealed his identity, exfiltrated data files, and deleted data and log files. He then sent a series of emails to the victim demanding money in exchange for the release of their data.
When the company announced their intention to contact law enforcement, Kight further threatened to send reputation-harming letters to the company’s clients and disseminate the data he had stolen. The victim nonetheless contacted the FBI and reported the hack and extortion demands. Once identified through the FBI investigation, a search of Kight’s computer equipment and encrypted email account revealed evidence of this crime as well as his scheme to extort multiple victims.
Christian William Kight, a/k/a Drillo, 29, of San Clemente, California, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas W. Thrash, Jr., to seven years, eight months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, a $900 fine, and $42,001.00, in restitution. Kight was convicted on these charges on December 3, 2019, after he pleaded guilty.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura D. Pfister prosecuted the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Byram Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Timothy Griffin, 44 of Byram, Mississippi, pled guilty yesterday before Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
In June 2018, DEA agents learned that a drug transaction was going to occur on Raymond Road in Jackson. Agents observed a pickup truck pull into the Raymond Road location. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Timothy Griffin. After searching the pickup truck, agents found approximately 425 grams of actual methamphetamine.
Griffin will be sentenced on July 10, 2020, at 9:00 a.m. and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine.
This case is the result of an extensive investigation targeting illegal methamphetamine distribution in Central Mississippi. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals Service, Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, Jones County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson Police Department, Richland Police Department, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the Internal Revenue Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chris Wansley and Keesha Middleton.