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13 March 2020
Judge Sentences Additional Defendants in Borris Fuller Meth Ring, More Sentencings Expected Next MonthRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – Six defendants linked to a major methamphetamine distribution ring in southwest Georgia have been sentenced to prison for their crimes, said Charlie Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner sentenced the following individuals on Wednesday, March 11:
- Jamal Cornelius, 28, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 108 months in prison and three years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Abe Dennis, 37, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 140 months in prison and five years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Willie Dillard, 26, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 160 months in prison and five years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Montrevious Jackson, 31, of Adel, was sentenced to 72 months in prison and three years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Doug Palmer, 39, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 120 months in prison and five years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
- Tahkhari Taylor, 29, of Moultrie, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in prison and three years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“Working together, federal, state and local law enforcement successfully shut down another dangerous methamphetamine operation pushing an extremely deadly drug into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “These defendants couldn’t escape the law, and neither will other dealers wanting to profit from the misery and death of people addicted to these illegal, deadly drugs. To all meth dealers: law enforcement is coming and will not stop until dealers are caught, prosecuted and sentenced.”
The known leader of the methamphetamine distribution ring, Borris Fuller, 41, of Moultrie, was sentenced on October 26, 2018 by Judge Abrams to 30 years in prison and ten years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Authorities estimate that an organization of 35 individuals was responsible for the distribution of more than 20 kilograms of the drug in and around Moultrie from May until November 2016. According to court evidence, some of these transactions also occurred in Atlanta and parts of Florida, including at the Georgia-Florida line. The names of the additional defendants previously sentenced to prison for their involvement in the Fuller methamphetamine distribution case are listed in an earlier press release on the USAO Middle District of Georgia website (click here to be directed to the webpage). The remaining eight defendants are expected to be sentenced on April 14 and April 15. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the DEA, GBI, Georgia Department of Corrections, Georgia Department of Community Supervision, Mid-South Narcotics Task Force, Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office, Crisp County Sheriff’s Office, Tift County Sheriff’s Office, Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Grady County Sheriff’s Office, Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Leon County Florida Sheriff’s Office, Volusia County Florida Bureau of Investigation and Moultrie Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah E. McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Informational: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned or appeared this week before U.S. Magistrate judges on indictments handed down by the Grand Jury or on criminal complaints. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing in Great Falls before U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris and pleading not guilty on March 11 was:
Roderick Kale Ledford, 38, of Great Falls, on charges of felon in possession of a firearm and unlawful drug user in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Ledford faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Ledford was detained pending further proceedings. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Great Falls Police Department investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-23.
Appearing on March 10 and pleading not guilty was:
Don Fred Baldwin, 47, of Merced, CA, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute meth, use of communications facility in causing and facilitating the commission of felonies. If convicted of the most serious crime, Baldwin faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and at least five years of supervised release. Baldwin was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Merced Police Department and Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-05.
Appearing on March 9 and pleading not guilty was:
Jennifer Lee Marie Walkingeagle, 29, of Wolf Point, on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone and possession with intent to distribute oxycodone. If convicted of the most serious crime, Walkingeagle faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years of supervised release. Walkingeagle was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI, Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice and Montana Highway Patrol investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-15.
Charles Clark, 26, of Wolf Point, on charges of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. If convicted of the most serious crime, Clark faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and at least five years of supervised release. Clark was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI and Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 20-20.
Appearing in Billings before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan on March 12 and pleading not guilty was:
Destiny Lachelle Nilsen, 26, of Billings, on charges of transportation of a person with intent to engage in prostitution. If convicted of the most serious crime, Nilsen faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Nilsen was detained pending further proceedings. The FBI investigated the case. Pacer case reference. 19-152.
If any of the above cases are of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor the progress of the case regularly through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Honduran National Charged with Misuse of a Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that JUAN VALENTIN HERNANDEZ-CRUZ, age 26, a citizen of Honduras, was charged on March 11, 2020 in a one-count bill of information with misuse of a social security number in violation of 42 U.S.C. ' 408(a)(7)(B).
According to the bill of information, JUAN VALENTIN HERNANDEZ-CRUZ presented false documents in an attempt to obtain a legal Louisiana driver’s license.
If convicted, JUAN VALENTIN HERNANDEZ-CRUZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, one year supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment.
U. S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.
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Grand Island Man Sentenced to 77 Months’ Imprisonment for Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Phillip M. Brown, age 41, of Grand Island, Nebraska, was sentenced on March 12, 2020 to 77 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, following his guilty plea to the charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm. There is no parole in the federal system. The Honorable Richard G. Kopf, Senior United States District Court Judge, presided over the case.
On the night of December 13, 2018, a Grand Island resident reported to police that, upon returning from work, he found his home to have been burglarized. The police were able to determine that at least fifteen firearms were stolen. Those firearms included seven shotguns, four handguns, and four rifles. The victim had inherited many of the firearms from his father.
The investigation revealed that Phillip Brown and an accomplice, Edwin Starman, broke into the home in the middle of the night. Brown had learned that a gun safe was kept in the home and he was provided with a key to the safe. Brown and Starman broke into the home and then Brown used the key to open the safe. The two burglars carried several firearms out of the residence and transported them to an apartment in Grand Island. Once they arrived at the apartment, Brown began contacting various people to find buyers for the guns. Brown further instructed Starman to return to the home to steal more firearms. Starman and a third person, Chelsea Musquiz, returned to the home that same night and stole additional items, including more firearms. The Grand Island Police Department was able to recover several of the stolen firearms. Starman and Musquiz have both entered pleas to charges in the District Court of Hall County, Nebraska.
At Brown’s sentencing hearing, after hearing testimony from an investigator with the Grand Island Police Department who also works with the Central Nebraska Drug and Safe Streets Task Force, Judge Kopf found that Brown should be held responsible for a total of fifteen firearms. Brown was assessed enhancements under the Sentencing Guidelines due to factors including the number of firearms involved in the offense and the fact that the firearms were stolen.
This case was investigated by the Grand Island Police Department and the Central Nebraska Drug and Safe Streets Task Force.
Gloversville Man Charged with Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – John Morgan, age 31, of Gloversville, New York, was arrested yesterday and charged by criminal complaint with distributing child pornography.
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 complaint alleges that Morgan, using the name “ilikyoung,” distributed videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children via a phone-based application connected to the Internet, from March 11 to March 12, 2020.
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Morgan initially appeared in court today, before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart. He was ordered detained pending a detention hearing on Monday.
If convicted, Morgan faces at least 5 years and up to 20 years in prison, a term of post-release supervision of at least 5 years and up to life, and a fine of $250,000. 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. Additionally, if convicted, Morgan would be required to register as a sex offender.
Anyone with information about this defendant is encouraged to call the FBI Albany Field Office at 518-465-7551.
The case is being investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Barnett.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), and is designed to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Georgia DFCS employee pleads guilty to aggravated identity theftRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Tamika Anderson, a Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (“DFCS”) employee, has pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft after she stole more than 100 identities while employed at Georgia DFCS.
“DFCS provides critical services to some of Georgia's neediest and most vulnerable residents,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “These citizens depend on DFCS and its employees to do the right thing. For a state employee to exploit these people by stealing their identities is reprehensible.”
“This case is an unfortunate example of an individual who violated her position of trust to illegally enrich herself,” said Steven R. Baisel, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, Atlanta Field Office. “The Secret Service will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to target and arrest individuals who commit these types of crimes.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges and other information presented in court: in September 2018, Anderson and a co-conspirator, Cassandra Clayton, agreed to sell people's identities, including their names and Social Security numbers, to a third-party for $4,000, with Anderson keeping $3,600. Anderson obtained the identities while working at Georgia DFCS from unsuspecting clients and sent them to Clayton by text message. Clayton did not work for Georgia DFCS, but was responsible for completing the sale to the third-party at a restaurant in McDonough, Georgia. Unbeknownst to Anderson and Clayton, the “buyer” was an undercover agent. Anderson and Clayton knew, however, that the identities were supposed to be used for other fraudulent conduct. In total, Anderson stole over 100 identities over just a couple of weeks.
Cassandra Clayton, 44, of Jonesboro, Georgia, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit access device fraud. On January 23, 2020, Clayton was sentenced to three years’ probation.
Sentencing for Tamika Anderson, 29, of Jonesboro, Georgia, is scheduled for June 10, 2020, before U.S. District Judge Eleanor L. Ross.
The U.S. Secret Service is investigating this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex R. Sistla is prosecuting 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.
Fraudster Convicted After Federal Trial for Scamming More Than 100 Elderly Victims Through Lottery SchemeRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal jury yesterday convicted Keno Romario Brown, age 26, of Hyattsville, Maryland, on federal charges of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, wire fraud, and mail fraud, in connection with a scheme to defraud more than 100 elderly victims through an advance fee scheme, specifically, by falsely representing that the victims had won a lottery or sweepstakes and demanding taxes or other fees before the victims could receive the prize.
The conviction was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Assistant Director in Charge Timothy R. Slater of the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Washington Field Office; and Postal Inspector in Charge Peter R. Rendina of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service - Washington Division.
U.S. Attorney Robert K. Hur stated, “The Department of Justice is committed to bringing fraudsters who prey upon the elderly to justice. We will continue our outreach efforts to make the public aware of scams and frauds targeting elderly victims and encourage anyone who believes they may be a victim to contact the newly launched Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).”
According to the evidence presented at his seven-day trial, in April 2013, Brown and two co-conspirators began contacting victims, falsely telling them that they were representatives of Company 1 or Company 2, which sponsored a lottery or sweepstakes. Brown and his co-conspirators misrepresented to victims that they had won a prize sponsored by Company 1 or Company 2, but in order to collect the prize, the victims had to pay advance fees and taxes to Brown or his co-conspirators. The conspirators directed the victims to send the advance fees and taxes electronically, or through an interstate mail carrier to “runners” who received the fraudulent proceeds and provided them to Brown and his co-conspirators. Evidence was presented that Brown used physical abuse to control at least one of the runners.
The trial evidence proved that to launder the fraud proceeds, Brown and a co-conspirator obtained debit cards using the personal information of elderly individuals without their knowledge or consent, and deposited that fraud proceeds onto those debit cards.
The evidence proved that during the course of the conspiracy, Brown and other members of the conspiracy successfully defrauded over 100 elderly victims.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gregory Bernstein, Dana J. Brusca, and Lindsay Eyler Kaplan, who are prosecuting the case.
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Former Music Teacher Sentenced to 10 Years for Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Juan Manuel Rivera-Vázquez, a music teacher and former keyboard player of a children’s music group, was sentenced on March 11, 2020, by U.S District Judge Francisco A. Besosa to a term of 10 years in prison, to be served concurrently with a 15-year sentence imposed in State Court, announced United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico W. Stephen Muldrow.
Juan Manuel Rivera-Vázquez was charged in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury in May 2019 with coercion and enticement of minors following a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Puerto Rico Crimes Against Children Task Force’s (PRCACTF) probe. He was arrested by HSI special agents on May 24, 2019, and pleaded guilty to the charge on August 6, 2019.
“This sentence should serve as a sobering warning about the consequences facing child sexual predators who mistakenly believe they can elude detection by coercing their victims,” said U.S. Attorney Muldrow. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to continuing its collaboration with our state, local and federal partners to locate these offenders and ensure that they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Sexual exploitation is one of the most depraved crimes committed against humanity, and this case is especially disturbing given Rivera-Vázquez’s position of trust,” said Ivan J. Arvelo, special agent in charge for HSI San Juan “This sentence serves as a reminder that HSI is committed to collaborating with its community partners to bring to justice those who exploit children.”
Assistant United States Attorney Elba Gorbea and Deputy Chief of the Immigration, Cybercrimes, and Child Exploitation Unit, Nicholas Cannon, were in charge of the prosecution of the case.
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Former Manager of Heating and Cooling Company Sentenced for EmbezzlingRead the Press Release
St. Louis, MO – Tracy Lee Cernicek, 48, of St. Charles, Missouri, was sentenced to 36 months in prison for wire fraud. Cernicek appeared in federal court today before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark.
According to court documents, Cernicek formerly worked as a credit and collection supervisor for Nortek Global HVAC and Nordyne Distributing. Between September 2016 and April 2019, Cernicek devised and executed a scheme wherein she fraudulently diverted company funds to herself. As one part of her scheme, she altered company systems in a manner that caused company refund transactions, which were properly due and owing to customers, to be paid to her own bank account. As another part of her scheme, she directed third parties to include her name on checks that were properly payable to the company, and thereafter, deposited those checks into her own personal bank account. As part of her effort to conceal the scheme, Cernicek thereafter manipulated company accounting software to write off the transactions as bad debt. In total, Cernicek attempted to embezzle almost $180,000 from her employer and their customers, and successfully embezzled approximately $136,000.
The U.S. Secret Service is investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle T. Bateman is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Florida Nursing School President Sentenced for His Role in Defrauding D.C.'s Department of Disability ServicesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Cleophat Tanis, 52, of Naples, Florida, was sentenced today to one month in prison and seven months of home detention for his role in a scheme that caused the District of Columbia’s Department of Disability Services to be defrauded out of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Tanis conspired with Eugenia Rapp, 50, of Woodbridge, Virginia, a former D.C. government employee, who pled guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud in July, and who will be sentenced on April 1, 2020.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Shea; Timothy M. Dunham, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Washington Field Office, Criminal Division; Aaron R. Jordan, Assistant Inspector General for Investigations, Department of Education; and Daniel W. Lucas, Inspector General for the District of Columbia.
Tanis pled guilty to one count of mail fraud in December 2020. Today the Honorable Trevor N. McFadden sentenced him to one month in prison and seven months of home detention. In addition, he was ordered to pay $47,895 in restitution, an identical amount in a forfeiture money judgement, and a $10,000 fine.
According to the statement of offense submitted to the Court in Tanis’ case, Rapp worked as a vocational rehabilitation counselor with the District of Columbia’s Department of Disability Services, Rehabilitation Services Administration (“DCRSA”). The DCRSA Vocational Rehabilitation program provides vocational rehabilitation benefits, like college tuition, to qualified individuals with disabilities to help them prepare for and engage in gainful employment. Individuals must be D.C. residents to be eligible for the benefits.
From 2012 through 2016, Rapp conspired with others to defraud the D.C. government by having benefits awarded to individuals who were not eligible to receive them. In her role as a vocational rehabilitation counselor, Rapp was responsible for determining whether an individual was eligible to receive the benefits. Notwithstanding D.C. government policy regarding conflicts of interest, Rapp served as the vocational rehabilitation counselor for more than 20 individuals whom she described as being related to her. She knew these individuals were not eligible to receive benefits, but ensured that she was assigned to be their vocational rehabilitation counselor, so she could process and approve their applications. As a result, the D.C. government awarded vocational rehabilitation benefits totaling approximately $834,536 to Rapp’s family members and friends.
When one of Rapp’s family members wanted to attend Tanis’ nursing school, Rapp worked with Tanis to get his school added as an approved vendor with the D.C. government. During that process, Tanis told Rapp that his school was struggling financially and asked her to use her position to help pay tuition for students at his school. Tanis knew that students had to be D.C. residents in order to be eligible to receive benefits, but worked with Rapp to get $47,895 in benefits awarded to five students at his school who were not D.C. residents and who had no familial relationship to Rapp. During the scheme, Tanis provided one of Rapp’s relatives with a full scholarship to attend his school. Rapp also asked him to provide money to that relative, which he did.
In announcing Tanis’ sentence, U.S. Attorney Shea, Special Agent in Charge Dunham, Assistant Inspector General Jordan, and Inspector General Lucas commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Education’s Office of Inspector General, and the District of Columbia’s Office of Inspector General. They also expressed appreciation for the work of Paralegal Specialist Mariela Andrade, and former Paralegal Specialists Brittany Phillips and Jessica Mundi. Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Kondi Kleinman, who prosecuted the case.
Florida Man Charged with Money Laundering in $30 Million Wire Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Florida man appeared in court today on charges that he laundered funds related to a $30 million wire fraud scheme, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Denis Sotnikov, 36, of Hallandale Beach, Florida, is charged by complaint with one count of money laundering. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jared M. Strauss in a Fort Lauderdale, Florida, federal court and was detained.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Between April 2018 and March 2020, individuals engaged in an internet-based financial fraud scheme, which generally involved the creation of fraudulent websites to solicit funds from individuals seeking to invest money. At times, the websites were designed to closely resemble websites being operated by actual, well-known, and publicly reputable financial institutions; at other times, the fraudulent websites were designed to resemble financial institutions that seemed legitimate, but did not, in fact, exist.
Victims of the fraud scheme typically discovered the fraudulent websites via internet searches. The fraudulent websites advertised various types of investment opportunities, most prominently the purchase of certificates of deposit, or CDs, with higher than average rates of return on the CDs to lure potential victims.
To date, at least 70 victims of the fraud scheme nationwide, including in New Jersey, have collectively transmitted at least $30 million that they believed to be investments.
In many instances, the victims would contact an individual or individuals via telephone or email, as directed on a fraudulent website, who provided the victims with applications and wiring instructions for the purchase of a CD. The funds wired by the victims would then be moved to various domestic and international bank accounts, including accounts in Russia, the Republic of Georgia, Hong Kong, and Turkey. None of the victims received a CD after wiring the funds.
Sotnikov received funds from at least 18 victims of the fraud scheme, totaling $6 million, in accounts at various domestic banks that were controlled by him or by a close relative. Of this amount, $3.7 million was either frozen by the banks or returned to victims, and $707,380 was wired overseas by Sotnikov. The remaining stolen funds – $1.5 million – were transferred to numerous other accounts controlled by Sotnikov and used to fund personal expenditures, including down payments on several luxury vehicles, purchases at high-end retail stores such as Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Cartier, rent exceeding $9,000 per month on a home in Florida, several vacations, living expenses and bills.
The money laundering charge is punishable by a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000, or twice the value of the property involved, whichever is greater.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) also filed a civil complaint against Sotnikov and several companies associated with him today based on the same conduct.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, including the FBI’s Cyber Crimes Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Gregory W. Ehrie in Newark. He also thanked the SEC for the assistance provided by its Enforcement Division.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony P. Torntore and Jamie L. Hoxie of the U.S. Attorney’s Cybercrimes Unit in Newark.
The charges and allegations in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Defense counsel: Roman Groysman Esq., Fort Lauderdale
Five Men Indicted after Schemes Defrauded Elderly and other Vulnerable Victims of More Than $4 MillionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney John H. Durham, Inspector in Charge Joseph W. Cronin of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division and J. Russell George, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, today announced that, on March 11, 2020, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an 11-count indictment charging the following individuals with offenses stemming from their alleged participation in lottery and romance scams that defrauded primarily elderly victims across the country of millions of dollars:
FAROUQ FASASI, 25, a citizen of Nigeria and a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. residing in New Haven
RODNEY THOMAS, JR., 29, of New Haven
MONTRELL DOBBS, JR., 27, recently of Ansonia, Hamden and New Haven
STANLEY PIERRE, 32, of Bridgeport
RALPH PIERRE, 30, of New HavenFasasi, Thomas, Dobbs and Ralph Pierre were arrested yesterday. They appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven and entered pleas of not guilty to the charges. Fasasi, Thomas and Ralph Pierre are currently detained, and Dobbs is released on bond. Stanley Pierre is being sought by law enforcement.
As alleged the indictment, in a lottery scam, scammers notify victims by telephone, through online communications, or by mail, that they have won the lottery. The victims are then told that in order to collect the prize they must pay fees for things like taxes, shipping and processing. Often, once a victim sends a small amount of money, a scammer will ask for larger sums of money with a promise of more winnings. The victims never receive winnings.
In a romance scam, scammers take advantage of people looking for companionship by pretending to be prospective companions. Scammers typically create fake online profiles on dating websites that include false personal details such as the death of a spouse, or military service, to lure victims to trust them. Once they have gained the trust of victims, scammers will ask victims for money, falsely claiming to need money for medical or business emergencies, for travel to see the victim, or other purposes.
The indictment alleges that, since August 2015, Fasasi, Thomas and their co-conspirators have used lottery scams, romance scams and other fraudulent means to induce elderly victims to provide them with money, gifts and personal details. Victims sent cash, money orders or checks through the mail to various addresses in Connecticut, and also wired or deposited money into bank accounts in Connecticut controlled by conspiracy members and their associates. Fasasi, Thomas and their associates, including Dobbs, Stanley Pierre and Ralph Pierre, retained a portion of the fraudulently obtained money and passed the rest to others. In addition, Fasasi, Thomas, Dobbs, Stanley Pierre and Ralph Pierre participated in a conspiracy to commit money laundering with the proceeds from the victims.
It is alleged that members of the conspiracy defrauded numerous victims across the U.S. of more than $4 million. One Connecticut victim lost more than $1 million.
“The financial victimization of seniors is as reprehensible as it is cruel, and the Justice Department has made it a priority to root out those who commit these crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “Numerous victims in this scheme gave thousands of dollars to these alleged predators. I urge all to think twice, and then to think again, before providing any money to individuals who they have never met in person. As soon as you are asked for money, call your local police department, or 833-FRAUD-11, for assistance.”
“Scammers use promises of large financial gains or sometimes even romantic relationships to lure victims in, only to manipulate them into giving their life savings away,” said Inspector in Charge Joseph W. Cronin of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division. “They prey on those individuals who are more susceptible to falling for a phony promotion or offer, most times, our elder population. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to protecting our citizens and working hard to prevent more people from becoming further victimized by these types of schemes.”
“These charges demonstrate the commitment of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration to investigate and bring to justice those that victimize the American taxpayer,” said J. Russell George, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. “These defendants are alleged to have engaged in schemes resulting in millions of dollars in fraud, often targeting the most vulnerable members of society. The success of this investigation is the result of a collaborative effort between multiple federal law enforcement agencies and the dedicated staff at the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
The indictment charges Fasasi and Thomas with one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, and one count of mail fraud. Each of these charges carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. All five of the defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, a charge that also carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. Fasasi, Dobbs, Stanley Pierre and Ralph Pierre are also charged with one or more counts of money laundering, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on each count.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Earlier this month, the Justice Department established a National Elder Fraud Hotline to provide services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud. The Hotline is staffed by experienced case managers who can provide personalized support to callers. Case managers assist callers with reporting the suspected fraud to relevant agencies and by providing resources and referrals to other appropriate services as needed. When applicable, case managers will complete a complaint form with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) for Internet-facilitated crimes and submit a consumer complaint to the Federal Trade Commission on behalf of the caller. The Hotline’s toll free number is 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).
This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Army-CID, and New Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather L. Cherry.
Federal Jury finds Defendants Guilty of Submitting False Claims to Medicare under Civil False Claims ActRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Following a nine week trial, a federal jury in Gulfport returned a guilty verdict yesterday against Ted and Julie Cain of Ocean Springs, Ted Cain’s companies, Stone County Hospital (Wiggins) and Corporate Management, Inc. (Gulfport), and Tommy Kuluz, Chief Financial Officer of Corporate Management, Inc. for violating the Civil False Claims Act, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Derrick Jackson, Special Agent in Charge of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
“This verdict is a victory for the American taxpayer and all the beneficiaries of Medicare and other government programs,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst. “This was one of the most egregious cases of Medicare fraud we have litigated in the State of Mississippi, and I am grateful to our prosecutors and DOJ attorneys and investigators for tenaciously pursuing and holding these fraud takers accountable. We will remain vigilant in protecting American taxpayer dollars and rooting out waste, fraud and abuse throughout government.”
The Government’s complaint and evidence at trial established that these defendants used Stone County Hospital, formerly a 25-bed critical access hospital and Medicare provider, to defraud Medicare of more than $10.85 million through fraudulent annual Medicare cost reports for the years 2004 through 2015. The majority of the damages sustained by the Government resulted from Ted Cain’s multi-million dollar compensation, billed to Medicare through Stone County Hospital and Corporate Management, Inc. For years, Corporate Management, Inc. passed on the vast majority of Ted Cain’s multi-million dollar compensation to Stone County Hospital, which Medicare reimbursed for costs at 101% from 2004 through April 1, 2013, and 99% from April 1, 2013 through 2015 under special reimbursement principles for critical access hospitals that help rural, underserved areas. For the cost reporting years 2004 to 2015, Corporate Management, Inc., through Ted Cain and Tommy Kuluz, assisted by Julie Cain, requested more than $17.69 million in compensation for Ted Cain despite no evidence that Ted Cain did any work for Stone County Hospital that qualified for Medicare reimbursement and that his compensation was unreasonable. In total, Medicare reimbursed Stone County Hospital nearly $11.8 million for Ted Cain’s compensation. The jury awarded the Government nearly $9.62 million in damages for Ted Cain’s fraudulent compensation.
Ted Cain’s wife, Julie Cain, who Ted Cain placed in the position of Administrator for Stone County Hospital from 2003 to 2012, also fraudulently received more than $704,454 in compensation reimbursed by Medicare. The evidence at trial showed that Julie Cain rarely worked at Stone County Hospital, while others ran the hospital, and Julie Cain’s compensation was unreasonable. After Julie Cain resigned as the Administrator of Stone County Hospital, she immediately started receiving compensation from Corporate Management, Inc. for alleged consulting work and director’s fees. Neither Julie Cain nor any other defendant could identify any consulting work she did for Stone County Hospital. Medicare reimbursed $149,510 in Julie Cain’s fraudulently obtained compensation for consulting and director’s fees. The jury awarded the Government a total of $853,964 in fraudulent compensation paid for Julie Cain.
Moreover, an audit conducted by the Mississippi Division of Medicaid found that for 2012 and 2013, Corporate Management, Inc., self-disallowed home office costs on its Medicaid home office statement but charged those costs on its Medicare home office statement, despite that Medicare and Medicaid follow the same reimbursement rules. Chief Financial Officer Tommy Kuluz could provide no explanation for this discrepancy, and despite the fact that he knew about the discrepancies at least by 2016 when Medicaid conducted an audit, defendants made no effort to repay Medicare for the over-allocation to Stone County Hospital. Because of this fraud, Medicare reimbursed Stone County Hospital more than $381,866 in fraudulent costs that it should not have.
The jury made a number of findings in its verdict, resulting in recovery of more than $10.85 million to the Medicare program. Damages are trebled under the False Claims Act. The Court also imposes a statutory penalty of $5,500 to $11,000 for each false claim for cost report years 2004 to 2014 and $11,181 to $22,363 for the 2015 cost report. Accordingly, the total amount of defendants’ civil liability will be determined by the Court, using the findings in the jury’s verdict.
The jury’s verdict resolves a lawsuit that was filed by James Aldridge under the qui tam or “whistleblower” provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private individuals to sue on behalf of the government for false claims and to share in any recovery. The Government investigated and intervened in the lawsuit and prosecuted the case. The case is captioned United States ex rel. Aldridge v. Corporate Management, Inc., et al., Case No. 1:16cv369-HTW-LRA (S.D. Miss.). The United States appreciates the relator’s interest in program integrity and his assistance with this successful outcome. The United States also appreciates the assistance of the Mississippi Division of Medicaid and Manuel Pilgrim, who heads its audit program. The Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General also provided assistance in the case.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela Givens Williams and Attorneys Tom Morris and Elspeth A. England with the Civil Fraud Section of the Commercial Litigation Branch of the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C.
Federal Jury Convicts Two Defendants in Gun Conspiracy That Brought More Than 100 Illegal Guns to the Streets of BuffaloRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that following a three week trial, a federal jury has convicted Titus Thompson, Jr., 35, of Buffalo, NY, and Deonte Cooper 25, of Ashtabula, Ohio, of conspiracy to traffic firearms from Ohio to Buffalo. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Thompson was also convicted of unlawful dealing in firearms, being a felon in possession of firearms, and maintaining a drug involved premises. Those charges carry an additional penalty of up to 35 years in federal prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emmanuel O. Ulubiyo and Charles J. Volkert, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that during the course of the conspiracy, Deonte Cooper, who also sold heroin, recruited heroin customers to make straw purchases of more than 100 firearms. The purchases were made at gun shows and gun stores in Ohio. The firearms were then transported to Buffalo, where they were sold to local drug dealers, including Titus Thompson.
On May 18, 2018, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Explosives, and the Buffalo Police Department executed a search warrant at 89 Parkridge Avenue in Buffalo in the upper and lower apartments which were utilized by Titus Thompson. During the search, agents recovered a .40 caliber pistol and a 9mm pistol in the upper apartment as well as several firearms in the lower apartment. Thompson has two previous felony convictions, and was legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
Another six defendants were also charged and previously convicted in this case.
“These defendants evaded our Nation’s laws so that they could profit by providing drug dealers with one of the most sought after tools of their trade—illegal guns,” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “These are the guns that are used to wreak so much havoc and violence in our community. When we disrupt the flow of illegal guns, drug dealers suffer and our community benefits.”
The verdict is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito, New York Field Division and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 23, 2020, before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford who presided over the trial.
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East Tennessee United States Attorney Warns Public About Coronavirus Scams Targeting the ElderlyRead the Press Release
Knoxville, Tenn. ---United States Attorney J. Douglas Overbey said today there have been advertisements and claims on television and on the internet touting “cures” for the coronavirus. He asked that the public and especially our senior citizens, who are most susceptible to serious harm from COVID-19, be wary of responding to any such advertising or scheme.
“Unfortunately, in times of crisis, a segment of our society targets elderly persons with schemes that are designed simply to take advantage of them and defraud them out of their money,” U.S. Attorney Overbey stated. “I urge people to be aware of the falsehoods contained in these advertisements and vigilant to avoid becoming victims of a scam.”
The public should continue to monitor the bulletins from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the fight against COVID-19. There is no known cure for this disease at this time, and citizens should refrain from interacting with anyone who claims otherwise.
“We further ask that anyone who believes they have been or are being targeted in any scam related to this illness come forward at the earliest possible moment and report it to a law enforcement agency. Those who seek to take advantage of members of our community by preying on their fears regarding COVID-19 must be stopped,” added Overbey.
The Department of Justice recently announced the launch of a National Elder Fraud Hotline, which provides services to seniors who may be victims of financial fraud. The Hotline is staffed by experienced case managers who can provide personalized support to callers. Case managers assist callers with reporting the suspected fraud to relevant agencies and by providing resources and referrals to other appropriate services as needed. When applicable, case managers will complete a complaint form with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) for Internet-facilitated crimes and submit a consumer complaint to the Federal Trade Commission on behalf of the caller. The Hotline’s toll free number is 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).
East Stroudsburg Man Sentenced to 24 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that on March 12, 2020, United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani sentenced Kerry Sprouse, age 23, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, to 24 months’ imprisonment for drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Sprouse distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute cocaine in February 2016, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania. Sprouse previously admitted during his guilty plea, to having distributed between 100 and 200 grams of cocaine as part of his trafficking activities.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean A. Camoni is 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. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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Drug Dealer Indicted for Causing an Overdose and A Death, Then Disposing of the BodyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an eight-count superseding indictment charging Sherman Michael Puckett (32, Clearwater) with one count of conspiring to distribute controlled substances, three counts of possessing controlled substances with the intent to distribute them, one count of distributing a controlled substance that caused death to its user, one count of distributing a controlled substance that caused serious bodily injury to its user, one count of using a property for the purpose of distributing controlled substances, and one count of obstructing justice. If convicted on all counts, Puckett faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. The superseding indictment also notifies Puckett that the United States intends to forfeit any assets that are traceable to proceeds of the offenses.
According to the superseding indictment, from at least July 23, 2018, through September 17, 2019, Puckett conspired with others to distribute fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, heroin, and methamphetamine. On July 23, 2018, law enforcement officers found Puckett in possession of fentanyl, acetylfentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and hydromorphone under circumstances that indicated he had intended to distribute these controlled substances to others. On September 6, 2018, law enforcement officers found Puckett in possession of fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine under circumstances that indicated he intended to distribute these controlled substances to others. In September 2018, Puckett distributed a substance that contained heroin, as well as fentanyl or a fentanyl analogues to T.W., who suffered serious bodily injury when she used the substance. From December 5 to December 8, 2018, Puckett maintained a hotel room for the purpose of distributing controlled substances to others. On December 7, 2018, Puckett distributed methamphetamine to S.C., who died from using the drug. Puckett then obstructed justice by disposing of evidence related to S.C.’s death, including her body. On September 17, 2019, law enforcement officers arrested Puckett and found him to be in possession of fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine under circumstances that indicated he intended to distribute these controlled substances to others.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Petersburg Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Gordon.
Dozens charged in Atlanta-based money laundering operation that funneled $30 million in proceeds from computer fraud schemes, romance scams, and retirement account fraudRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – Federal agents have arrested twenty-four individuals for their involvement in a large-scale fraud and money laundering operation that targeted citizens, corporations, and financial institutions throughout the United States. Business email compromise schemes, romance fraud scams, and retirement account scams, among other frauds, duped numerous victims into losing more than $30 million.
“Fraud schemes, like the ones perpetrated and facilitated by these defendants, inflict considerable losses on citizens, companies, and the financial system,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “Some of these schemes target the elderly and often deplete the victims’ entire life savings. These arrests affirm the Department of Justice’s commitment to prosecuting those who prey on our most vulnerable citizens.”
“The FBI would like to thank our numerous federal, state and local law enforcement partners who helped make these arrests possible,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “There is no way we can make the victims of these schemes, many who have lost their life savings, whole again. Hopefully the arrests and pending prosecutions will at least give them solace that someone is being held accountable for their losses.”
“An important mission of the Office of Inspector General is to investigate allegations of fraud relating to employee benefit plans. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate these types of allegations,” stated Rafiq Ahmad, Special Agent-in-Charge, Atlanta Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.
“This investigation and subsequent arrests is due to the level of cooperation and information sharing by all law enforcement partners involved,” said Steven R. Baisel, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, Atlanta Field Office. “The Secret Service will continue to collaborate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners to safeguard the nation’s critical financial infrastructure and the people in our communities.”
“No one deserves to have their hard-earned money stolen from them, so identifying and arresting these defendants makes everyone in the community safer,” said acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) operations in Georgia and Alabama. “Foreign nationals arrested in this scheme will be placed into removal proceedings upon completion of their criminal sentence.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the indictment, and other information presented in court: The defendants served as money launderers for other individuals throughout the world who conducted cyber-enabled fraud, including business email compromise schemes, romance scams, and retirement account scams, targeted at companies and individuals across the United States.
A “business email compromise” (BEC) is a type of computer intrusion that occurs when an employee of a company is tricked into interacting with an email message that appears to be, but is not, legitimate. The fraudulent email instructs the victim to wire money to a bank account controlled by conspirators.
A “romance scam” is a type of online fraud that occurs when an individual user of an internet dating website is targeted for fraud by an imposter posing as a potential paramour. The scammer creates a fake online dating profile that depicts photographs of an attractive man or woman alongside descriptions of the fictitious person. The scammer then uses this fake person to express romantic interest in the victim in order to trick him or her into sending money to the scammer. The scammer frequently targets vulnerable individuals who possess significant financial assets, such as retired widows or widowers.
A “retirement account scam” is a type of online fraud that occurs when a third party administrator (TPA) for retirement investment accounts is tricked into authorizing a money distribution to an imposter posing as the true accountholder. The imposter often starts the scam by calling the TPA, identifying himself or herself as an actual accountholder, and requesting a withdrawal distribution form. Once the imposter receives the withdrawal distribution form, the imposter returns the completed form to the TPA. The form is completed with the accountholder’s real personal identifying information (PII)—often stolen via BEC schemes, data breaches, and other hacking offenses—and bank account information for an account controlled by the imposter or the imposter’s conspirators. After the TPA processes the fraudulent request, the request is forwarded to the investment firm responsible for managing the accountholder’s investments, and the funds—often the accountholder’s life savings—are then directed to the imposter’s designated bank account.
The defendants and co-conspirators facilitated BEC schemes, romance scams, and retirement account scams by receiving and distributing fraudulent funds throughout the United States and the world. Over the course of the conspiracy, the defendants and their co-conspirators laundered over $30 million in fraud proceeds. The defendants created multiple sham companies that did not have physical premises, earn legitimate income, or pay wages to employees. In turn, the defendants opened business bank accounts at multiple financial institutions to facilitate receipt of the fraudulent money. The defendants also opened personal bank accounts to receive fraudulent funds, often using false identities and victims’ identities. After funds were deposited into the defendants’ bank accounts, the money was quickly withdrawn from the accounts and circulated among the defendants.
The following individuals have been charged with money laundering conspiracy:
- Darius Sowah Okang, a/k/a Michael J. Casey, a/k/a Richard Resser, a/k/a Thomas Vaden, a/k/a Michael Lawson, a/k/a Matthew Reddington, a/k/a Michael Little, 29, of Stone Mountain, Georgia;
- Dominique Raquel Golden, a/k/a Desire Tamakloe, a/k/a Mellissa Moore, a/k/a Nicole Nolay, a/k/a Raquel Roberts, a/k/a Maria Henderson, a/k/a Raquel Golden, 29, of Houston, Texas;
- Blessing Oluwatimilehin Ojo, a/k/a “Timmy,” 34, of Nigeria;
- George Kodjo Edem Adatsi, 36, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Desire Elorm Tamakloe, a/k/a “Chubby,” 25, of Smyrna, Georgia;
- Solomon Agyapong, a/k/a “Gumpe,” 31, of Marietta, Georgia;
- Afeez Olaide Adeniran, a/k/a “Ola,” 31, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Francesco Benjamin, a/k/a “B-More,” 30, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Jonathan Kojo Agbemafle, a/k/a “Skinny,” 26, of Kansas City, Missouri;
- Joshua Roberts, a/k/a “Onyx,” 28, of Houston, Texas;
- Hamza Abdallah, a/k/a Reggie Lewis, 30, of McDonough, Georgia;
- Prince Sheriff Okai, 26, of Mableton, Georgia;
- Kelvin Prince Boateng, 24, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Monique Wheeler, 29, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Matthan Bolaji Ibidapo, a/k/a “B.J.,” 27, of Colorado Springs, Colorado;
- Stephen Abbu Jenkins, a/k/a “Face,” a/k/a Steven Abbu Jenkins, Steven Jenkins, Steve Jenkins, 53, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Kahlia Andrea Siddiqui, 28, of Chamblee, Georgia;
- Alexus Ciera Johnson, 26, of Mableton, Georgia;
- Abubakar Sadik Ibrahim, 26, of Mableton, Georgia;
- Emanuela Joe Joseph, 34, of Lawrenceville, Georgia;
- Obinna Nwosu, 26, of Douglasville, Georgia;
- Ojebe Obewu Ojebe, 27, of Atlanta, Georgia; and
- Gregory Thomas Hudson, 38, of Powder Springs, Georgia.
Darius Sowah Okang is also charged with one count of bank fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft. The indictment alleges that Okang created a bank account in a retirement scam victim’s name, which was then used to deposit approximately $288,000 in funds fraudulently withdrawn from the victim’s retirement account.
Afeez Olaide Adeniran and Blessing Ojo are also charged with wire fraud. The indictment alleges that Adeniran defrauded a homebuyer of $40,000 intended for a real estate transaction. The indictment alleges that due to a computer intrusion and false invoicing scam, Ojo caused a media company in California to send payments totaling $89,140 to a bank account controlled by one of the defendants. In total, the victim sent $646,840, as a result of the fraud.
In addition, two related cases charging additional defendants with various counts of bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, money laundering, and conspiracies to commit these offenses are currently pending in federal court in Atlanta. These defendants include:- Benjamin Ibukunoluwa Oye, 26, of Sandy Springs, Georgia;
- Tyler Keon Roussell, 25, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Christopher Akinwande Awonuga, 27, of Fayetteville, Georgia;
- Casey Broderick Williams, 26, of Covington, Georgia;
- Macario Lee Nelson, a/k/a “Mac,” 24, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Chadrick Jamal Rhodes, 28, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Chadwick Osbourne Stewart, 40, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Oumar Bouyo Mbodj, 28, of Kennesaw, Georgia;
- Seth Appiah Kubi, 60, of Dacula, Georgia;
- Ahamefule Aso Odus, 27, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- Paul Chinonso Anyanwu, 27, of Hampton, Georgia;
- Egale Veonzell Woods, Jr., 41, of East Point, Georgia;
- Chineda Obilom Nwakadu, 25, of McDonough, Georgia;
- Chukwukadibia Ikechukwu Nnadozie, a/k/a “Chuka,” a/k/a Michael McCord, 27, of Fayetteville, Georgia;
- Uchechi Chidimma Odus, a/k/a “Uche,” 23, of Atlanta, Georgia;
- John Ifeoluwa Onimole, 27, of Powder Springs, Georgia; and
- Oluwafunmilade Onamuti, a/k/a Mathew Kelvin, 26, of Duluth, Georgia.
Members of the public are reminded that the indictments only contain charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove each defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, U.S. Secret Service, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations are investigating this case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelly K. Connors, Russell Phillips, and John Ghose are prosecuting the case.
The investigating agencies received considerable support from numerous federal, state, and local law enforcement authorities, to include: Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the State of Georgia, Office of Inspector General. Also the Atlanta Police Department, Smyrna Police Department, Henry County Police Department, Gwinnett County Police Department, DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department, Chamblee Police Department, Dunwoody Police Department, Cobb County Police Department, McDonough Police Department, Carrollton Police Department, and the Sandy Springs Police Department, all in Georgia. Additional agencies are the New York City Police Department; Houston Police Department; Kent and Bellevue Police Departments in Washington; Newport Beach Police Department, Orange County Sheriff’s Department, San Francisco Police Department, and Upland Police Departments in California; Radnor Township Pennsylvania Police Department; York County South Carolina Sheriff’s Department; Bloomington Indiana Police Department; Arlington County Virginia Police Department; Wells Maine Police Department; Schaumburg Illinois Police Department; Salt Lake City Utah Unified Police District; and the Charlotte County Florida Sheriff’s Office.This investigation is being conducted under the auspices of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program—the keystone drug, money laundering, and transnational organized crime enforcement program of the Department of Justice.
We engage in community outreach to educate local law enforcement and residents about how they can assist in the fight against, and protect themselves from, fraud schemes that target elder Americans. For further information on these scams, see https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice/senior-scam-alert.
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.
Dark Web Narcotics Traffickers Sentenced to Prison for Importing and Distributing Controlled Substances from ChinaRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced that Stephen Stroh, 56, of Morton, PA, and Vaughan Reiser, 21, of Landenberg, PA, have been sentenced to prison by United States District Judge C. Darnell Jones II for conspiracy to import numerous controlled substances from China using the dark web, conspiracy to distribute those substances, and related drug offenses. Stroh was sentenced to 17-and-a-half years in prison, while Reiser was sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison.
From Spring 2017 until December 2017, the defendants conspired to import controlled substances, including furanyl fentanyl, methoxyacetyl fentanyl, U-47700, and other synthetic narcotics, from China into the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Upon receiving these deadly substances through the mail, the defendants conducted research on various dark net websites to learn how to combine the substances to manufacture counterfeit pills. Some of the pills they made were counterfeit oxycodone pills which contained fentanyl and counterfeit Adderall pills which contained methamphetamine.
The defendants also used the dark web to order machinery and related parts from China in order to press the substances into pills. The defendants then distributed these counterfeit pills to customers via the Internet and through the mail. The pills were also distributed to customers who would test and provide feedback as to the quality of the counterfeit pills. The defendants were paid in bitcoin, and used cellular telephones, computers, and self-destructing messaging applications to communicate with one another.
“Stroh and Reiser are dangerous drug traffickers, pure and simple – it makes no difference that they were using the Internet as opposed to working street corners. If anything, it makes their criminal conduct even worse, given the reach of the Internet,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “The drugs these defendants were importing and distributing are extremely deadly, compounded by the fact that they were intentionally mislabeling them. A critical aspect of my Office’s efforts to combat the opioid epidemic is stopping and holding accountable international drug traffickers like these defendants, who richly deserve their significant prison sentences.”
“As Philadelphia continues to deal with a staggering opioid epidemic, these sentencings should serve as a reminder that trafficking in this poison will result in severe consequences,” said William S. Walker, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Philadelphia. “Additionally, HSI Philadelphia’s Cyber Crimes Investigations Task Force and our partners remain vigilant in protecting our communities from all cyber-enabled drug trafficking.”
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, and it is being prosecuted by Senior Advisor to the U.S. Attorney Clare Putnam Pozos and Assistant United States Attorney MaryTeresa Soltis.
Dalton gang member sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for possessing pistol and short-barreled shotgunRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Florencio Rodriguez, a member of the Sureños 13 gang and multi-convicted felon, has been sentenced to consecutive, maximum terms of imprisonment for unlawfully possessing firearms, including a sawed-off shotgun with an obliterated serial number.
“Gang members are relentless in their attempts to prey upon vulnerable communities in this district, including in North Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “We will continue to work with our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners to target gang members and other violent criminals who endanger the public.”
“It appears the only way to stop Rodriguez from terrorizing our communities is to keep him off the streets, and this sentence will do that for a long time,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners are dedicated to dismantling these violent criminal enterprises to make our communities safer places to live.”
“The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is committed to the reduction of violent crime in our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Arthur Peralta. “Our law enforcement partnerships allow us to focus investigative resources on those individuals who pose the most danger. As a result, violent criminals receive the maximum sentence.”
"I am very pleased to see that the efforts of Dalton Police Department and our federal law enforcement partners has resulted in the successful prosecution of a local member of the Sur 13 street gang. Our community will be safer without this repeat offender being on the streets. This case is a great example of what can be accomplished when local, state, and federal law enforcement work together to target gang members and violent offenders,” said Dalton Police Chief Cliff Cason.
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges, and other information presented in court: On July 11, 2019, police officers in Dalton, Georgia, approached Rodriguez, a member of the Sureños 13 gang, to arrest him on a pending probation warrant. Rodriguez ran from the officers when they ordered him to stop. Officers apprehended him when he fell during the chase. The officers found a .22 caliber pistol underneath Rodriguez and recovered approximately one ounce of methamphetamine from him.
At the time of his arrest, Rodriguez wore a blue bandana around his ankle, an article of clothing that gang members use to demonstrate their affiliation with the Sureños 13 gang. He also had been convicted of numerous felonies in North Georgia, including attempted robbery, street gang activity, and terroristic threats. Following his arrest, investigators seized a sawed-off shotgun and shotgun shells from a bedroom that Rodriguez shared with his girlfriend. The serial number on the sawed-off shotgun had been removed.
Florencio Rodriguez, also known as “Cheeto,” 29, of Dalton, Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Steven D. Grimberg to 15 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Dalton Police Department investigated the case with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). In keeping with the Attorney General’s mission to reduce violent crime, the Northern District of Georgia’s PSN program focuses on prosecuting those individuals who most significantly drive violence in our communities, and supports and fosters partnerships between law enforcement and schools, the faith community, and local community leaders to prevent and deter future criminal conduct.
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.
Cozad, Nebraska, Man Sentenced for Being an Illegal Alien in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Roque Gonzalez-Segura, 30, of Cozad, Nebraska, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison by United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. for being an alien in possession of a firearm. There is no parole in the federal system. In addition to his prison term, he will serve two years of supervised release following his release from prison.
On November 15, 2018, Gonzalez-Segura went into the Cozad Police Department and told them that he was involved in a shooting in Lexington, Nebraska, a couple days prior. The officer observed a bulge in the jacket pocket of Gonzalez-Segura. A pat-down search was conducted and a 9mm handgun was found. Gonzalez-Segura is an illegal alien and prohibited from possessing firearms.
This case was investigated by the Lexington Police Department, the Cozad Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, and Homeland Security Investigations.
Council Bluffs Man Sentenced for Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa - United States Attorney Marc Krickbaum announced on March 12, 2020, Jordan James Collier, age 31, of Council Bluffs, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge James E. Gritzner for Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm. Collier was sentenced to 84 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release.
The sentencing was the result of an investigation which began with a call from the American Inn in Council Bluffs regarding a firearm located in a patron’s room. Upon arrival, officers entered the room and located a black and silver, .32 caliber revolver on the bed along with drugs and drug paraphernalia. The defendant was contacted as he returned to the hotel room and it was determined he had previously been convicted and sentenced in the Southern District of Iowa for the crime of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm, making his possession of firearms or ammunition illegal.
This matter was investigated by the Council Bluffs Police Department and Southwest Iowa Narcotics Task Force. The case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa.
Contractor Sentenced to More Than 3 Years in Prison for Paying Bribes to South Suburban MayorRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — A federal judge in Chicago has sentenced a contractor to more than three years in prison for paying bribes to the mayor of Markham to maintain and expand business with the south suburb.
MICHAEL JARIGESE, 67, of Frankfort, was convicted last year on nine counts of wire fraud and one count of bribery. The jury also convicted Mokena-based TOWER CONTRACTING LLC on the same charges. Jarigese was Tower’s president when he paid more than $80,000 in bribes to Markham Mayor DAVID WEBB JR. to maintain contracting work and obtain future business from the city. To conceal the bribes, Jarigese provided Webb with a false invoice and used coffee cups to hide cash payments. In exchange for the money, Webb took official action that benefited Jarigese and Tower, such as helping to award the company a multi-million dollar construction project.
U.S. District Judge Robert W. Gettleman on Thursday sentenced Jarigese to three years and five months in prison. Judge Gettleman fined Tower Contracting $1.2 million and sentenced it to four years of probation.
The sentences were announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Emmerson Buie, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of the FBI; and Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent-in-Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation Division in Chicago. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission provided valuable assistance.
“By bribing Webb, Jarigese rigged the system, ensuring that Tower’s uncompetitive and unchallenged proposals were the only option presented to the Markham City Council,” Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven J. Dollear, Heather K. McShain and Georgia N. Alexakis argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “Markham did not get the best value for each of the construction projects completed by Tower; instead, they were subject to a corrupt relationship between Jarigese, Tower, and Webb.”
Webb, who served as mayor of Markham from 2001 to 2017, pleaded guilty prior to trial and admitted participating in the scheme. Webb’s sentencing has not yet been scheduled.
A fourth defendant, THOMAS SUMMERS, owner of an Alsip-based sewer business, was tried separately and convicted last year of making false statements to the FBI and IRS. Summers is set to be sentenced by Judge Gettleman on April 28, 2020.
Clearwater Man Indicted for Causing an Overdose and A Death, Then Disposing of the BodyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the return of an eight-count superseding indictment charging Sherman Michael Puckett (32, Clearwater) with one count of conspiring to distribute controlled substances, three counts of possessing controlled substances with the intent to distribute them, one count of distributing a controlled substance that caused death to its user, one count of distributing a controlled substance that caused serious bodily injury to its user, one count of using a property for the purpose of distributing controlled substances, and one count of obstructing justice. If convicted on all counts, Puckett faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. The superseding indictment also notifies Puckett that the United States intends to forfeit any assets that are traceable to proceeds of the offenses.
According to the superseding indictment, from at least July 23, 2018, through September 17, 2019, Puckett conspired with others to distribute fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, heroin, and methamphetamine. On July 23, 2018, law enforcement officers found Puckett in possession of fentanyl, acetylfentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and hydromorphone under circumstances that indicated he had intended to distribute these controlled substances to others. On September 6, 2018, law enforcement officers found Puckett in possession of fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine under circumstances that indicated he intended to distribute these controlled substances to others. In September 2018, Puckett distributed a substance that contained heroin, as well as fentanyl or a fentanyl analogues to T.W., who suffered serious bodily injury when she used the substance. From December 5 to December 8, 2018, Puckett maintained a hotel room for the purpose of distributing controlled substances to others. On December 7, 2018, Puckett distributed methamphetamine to S.C., who died from using the drug. Puckett then obstructed justice by disposing of evidence related to S.C.’s death, including her body. On September 17, 2019, law enforcement officers arrested Puckett and found him to be in possession of fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine under circumstances that indicated he intended to distribute these controlled substances to others.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Petersburg Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Gordon.
Citizen of Jamaica with Criminal History Sentenced to 46 Months for Illegally Reentering U.S.Read the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PAUL FITZGERALD WILLIAMS, 54, a citizen of Jamaica last residing in Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 1996, Williams, who has never held legal status in the U.S., was removed to Jamaica after sustaining multiple state convictions, including convictions for drug and firearm offenses. Williams illegally returned to the U.S. and, using an alias, was arrested in June 1999 in New Britain for narcotics trafficking offenses. He was subsequently convicted in state court of multiple narcotics sale offenses and sentenced to 10 years of incarceration. He was also convicted in federal court of one count of distribution of crack cocaine and one count of reentry of removed alien and, in December 2000, was sentenced to 100 months of imprisonment, to be served concurrently with his state sentence. Following his release from prison, Williams was removed to Jamaica in April 2008.
Williams has been detained since February 8, 2019, when he was arrested by Hartford Police after a traffic stop on a charge of interfering/resisting arrest. On December 19, 2019, he pleaded guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien.
Williams has 12 serious prior convictions and has used approximately 16 aliases and 12 dates of birth in his prior offenses.
This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Slater.
Boston Man Convicted of Armed Robbery of Brockton Cellular Phone Store and Shooting at PoliceRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Boston man was convicted yesterday by a federal jury in relation to an armed robbery of a T-Mobile store in Brockton, where multiple gunshots were fired at Brockton Police Officers during a high-speed chase.
A jury convicted Diovanni Carter, 30, of Boston, yesterday of conspiracy to commit a robbery affecting interstate commerce, robbery affecting interstate commerce, and use and carrying, brandishing and discharge of a firearm during and in relation to the robbery. U.S. District Court Judge Allison Burroughs scheduled sentencing for July 7, 2020.
According to the trial testimony, on Jan. 26, 2019, Diovanni Carter orchestrated a plan with three other men to rob a T-Mobile store in Brockton. Diovanni Carter drove the group from Boston to Brockton. When they arrived, the three men went into the store carrying semi-automatic firearms that they pointed at the store manager, demanding cash and electronics, while Diovanni Carter waited in the getaway vehicle. During the robbery, the store manager was struck in the head with the firearm. The three men stole approximately $25,000 in cash and electronics, left the store, and entered the getaway vehicle driven by Diovanni Carter.
Brockton Police responded and located the getaway vehicle. A high speed chase ensued through residential neighborhoods reaching speeds of over 70 mph. During the chase, Diovanni Carter ordered the other men in the car to fire their weapons at the pursuing police cruisers as part of their effort to escape. In total, at least eight rounds were fired at the police. The suspects then abandoned the car nearby and ran on foot.
During the search by law enforcement, the stolen phones and cash and the three firearms used in robbery were recovered. Darius Carter, Stephan Rosser-Steward and a third man were apprehended shortly after the robbery. They were wearing clothes consistent with those worn in store video surveillance. Diovanni Carter was not apprehended that night.
Through the investigation, a warrant was obtained for Diovanni Carter’s arrest, and he remained a fugitive from state charges until March 5, 2019, when he was apprehended.
The charge of interference with commerce by robbery provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $ 250,000. The charge of being a felon in possession of ammunition provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of use of a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, and a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment ranging from: five years for the possession of a firearm, seven years for the brandishing of a firearm and 10 years for the discharge of a firearm. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Lelling; Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Christopher S. Mason, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy Cruz; Plymouth County Sheriff, Joseph D. McDonald, Jr.; and Brockton Police Chief Emanuel Gomes, made the announcement. AUSA Glenn MacKinlay Chief of Lelling’s Organized Crime and Gang Unit and AUSA Philip Mallard of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit prosecuted the case. Members of the Quincy Police and Boston Police also provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
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Boca Raton Man Sentenced on Federal Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
WEST PALM BEACH – Today, U.S. District Court Judge Robyn Rosenberg sentenced Brian Sigouin, 33, on one count of receipt of child pornography, and three counts of possession of child pornography. Judge Rosenberg sentenced Sigouin to a prison term of 97 months, followed by 15 years of supervised release. Sigouin must also pay restitution to the victims in the amount of $36,000.
Sigouin previously pled guilty to these charges on January 2, 2020. Sigouin admitted that from 2016 through 2018, he accessed peer-to-peer networks to obtain images and videos of child pornography. Those images and videos included pre-pubescent children engaged in forced sexual acts.
Ariana Fajardo Orshan, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and George L. Piro, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, (FBI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
U.S. Attorney Fajardo Orshan commended the investigation efforts of the FBI and FBI Miami’s Child Exploitation Task Force. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Schiller.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Beltsville Man Convicted After Federal Jury Trial for Narcotics Distribution and Sex Trafficking Conspiracies and Related ChargesRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – A federal jury has convicted Kenneth Wayne Hart, a/k/a Redds, Wayne Hawkins, Hawk, Big Daddy, Billy Reds, and Bill Red Hart, age 58, of Beltsville, Maryland, on federal charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute narcotics; a sex trafficking conspiracy; sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion; and witness tampering. The verdict was returned late on March 12, 2020.
The conviction was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Special Agent in Charge Timothy Jones of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Jennifer C. Boone of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; and Chief Henry P. Stawinski III of the Prince George’s County Police Department.
According to the evidence presented at his seven-day trial, beginning in December 2016 and continuing until April 2017, Hart conspired to distribute narcotics and with a co-conspirator ran a prostitution business using force, threats, fraud, and coercion to cause women to engage in commercial sex acts. The evidence proved that Hart recruited women to engage in commercial sex acts in Maryland and Washington, D.C. Hart transported, photographed, and advertised the victims for commercial sex on websites set up for that purpose. According to trial testimony, Hart also supplied the victims with heroin and crack cocaine on a daily basis and threatened to withhold—and did withhold—the narcotics if the victims displayed any sign of disobedience or tried to leave the locations where the commercial sex acts occurred. According to trial evidence, in order to maintain control over the women he recruited to prostitute, Hart demanded that the women surrender to him their personal belongings, including identification cards, credit cards, cash, clothing, and cellular phones, and confiscated their earnings from the commercial sex acts. Hart also used physical force, threatened physical force, and verbally abused the victims to force them to engage in prostitution against their will.
The jury also found that the evidence proved that Hart used physical force and threatened physical force to prevent an individual from communicating to a law enforcement officer information related to the commission or possible commission of a federal offense.
Hart faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for the drug distribution conspiracy; a maximum of life in federal prison for the sex trafficking conspiracy; a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison and a maximum of life in prison for each of two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion; and up to 30 years in federal prison witness tampering. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. District Judge Peter J. Messitte has scheduled sentencing for July 8, 2020 at 9:30 a.m.
The sex trafficking charges were investigated by the FBI-led Maryland Child Exploitation Task Force (MCETF), created in 2010 to combat child prostitution, with members from10 state and federal law enforcement agencies. The Task Force coordinates with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and the Maryland State Police Child Recovery Unit to identify missing children being advertised online for prostitution.
MCETF partners with the Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force, formed in 2007 to discover and rescue victims of human trafficking while identifying and prosecuting offenders. Members include federal, state and local law enforcement, as well as victim service providers and local community members. For more information about the Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force, please visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/md/priorities_human.html.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the ATF, FBI, and the Prince George’s County Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer R. Sykes and Daniel C. Gardner, who are prosecuting the case.
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Beatrice Woman Convicted for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Ashley A. Bartels, 22, of Beatrice, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Omaha by Senior United States District Judge Laurie Smith Camp to 7 years’ imprisonment after having entered a plea of guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. There is no parole in the federal system. After her release from prison, Bartels will serve a five-year term of supervised release.
Agents with the United States Marshals Service, Nebraska State Patrol, Gage County Sheriff’s Department, Beatrice Police Department and Lincoln Police Department were involved in investigating substantial methamphetamine activity in the Gage County area. Their investigation led to a conspiracy involving Bartels, Candace Burr, and Charles Burr from November 2016 through September 2017. In particular, Bartels was involved from approximately June of 2017 through September 2017 and was responsible for more than 80 ounces of methamphetamine being distributed in the area.
Area man gets 35 years for sex trafficking adult women by forceRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 29-year-old former Katy resident has been ordered to prison for conspiring to compel three adult women to engage in sex trafficking by means of force and violence in Houston and other locations across the country, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Marquis Holmes aka Goldie pleaded guilty June 13, 2019, to one count of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by means of force, fraud and coercion; two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution; and two counts of enticing and coercing another to travel in interstate commerce for prostitution.
Today, U.S. District Judge Sim Lake sentenced Holmes to 420 months for the conspiracy as well as 120 months and 240 months for the transportation and enticement convictions, respectively. The sentences will all run concurrently for a total 420-month-term of imprisonment. The court also heard from one of Holmes’ victims who described how he forced her to earn $1500 per day or suffer severe consequences. She described how Holmes physically assaulted her, which included kicking and whipping her repeatedly with a thick belt in order to exert his control. She said Holmes was amused during moments when he would physically assault her. The victim also detailed the paranoia, fear and depression she suffered for years after leaving Holmes.
In handing down the sentence, the court noted the heinous and violent nature of Holmes’ crimes. He will serve 20 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Holmes will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
From June 2015 until his arrest in March 2018, Holmes scoured social media websites to recruit women, often under false pretenses, to work as prostitutes for him. Under threat of violence and actual violence, Holmes prostituted two of these women in Houston and Austin; New Orleans, Louisiana; Memphis, Tennessee; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Mississippi; Alabama; South Carolina and other locations across the country. Holmes coerced the women to pose for pictures used in online advertisements for sex and to engage in commercial sex acts for money. Holmes collected all the money the women earned.
On March 30, 2018, authorities arrested Holmes, at which time they rescued a third victim whom he had kidnapped in his residence along with her infant child. While raping her daily, Holmes forced her to solicit commercial sex dates along the 1.3 mile stretch of Bissonnet Street, commonly referred to as “The Track,” while he kept close tabs on her and her infant child. If she did not meet the monetary quota Holmes had set, he beat her and deprived her of food.
Holmes has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance (HTRA) conducted the investigation.
HTRA law enforcement includes members of the Houston Police Department, FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Texas Attorney General’s Office, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Department of Labor, Department of State, Texas Alcoholic and Beverage Commission, Texas Department of Public Safety, Coast Guard and sheriff’s offices in Harris and Montgomery counties in coordination with District Attorney’s offices in Harris, Montgomery and Fort Bend Counties.
Established in 2004, the United States Attorney’s office in Houston formed HTRA to combine resources with federal, state and local enforcement agencies and prosecutors, as well as non-governmental service organizations to target human traffickers while providing necessary services to those that the traffickers victimized. Since its inception, HTRA has been recognized as both a national and international model in identifying and assisting victims of human trafficking and prosecuting those engaged in trafficking offenses.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sebastian Edwards and Carrie Wirsing prosecuted this case.
Another former federal detention center employee indicted for briberyRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 21-year-old resident of Weslaco and former employee of the East Hidalgo Detention Center has been taken into custody, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
A McAllen grand jury returned an indictment March 10 charging Amber Estrada. She is expected to make her initial appearance March 16 at 11:30 a.m. before U.S. Magistrate judge Peter E. Ormsby.
According to the charges, federal authorities discovered various forms of contraband approximately January 2019 in the East Hidalgo Detention Center, a correctional facility under contract with the U.S. Marshals Service. The indictment alleges Estrada accepted things of value in exchange for bringing contraband into the detention center while employed as a correctional officer.
She is no longer employed at the facility.
Six others have also been charged related to crimes committed while employed at the East Hidalgo Detention Center.
If convicted, Estrada faces up to 15 years in federal prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
The U.S. Marshals Service, Department of Justice - Office of Inspector General and FBI conducted the joint investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia Cook Profit and Amy L. Greenbaum are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Activity in the United States Attorney's OfficeRead the Press Release
Federal District Court Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal sentenced LESLIE JANAE ROMERO, 38, of Colorado Springs, Colorado on March 11, 2020 for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Romero was arrested in Fort Collins, Colorado. She received seventy-six months of imprisonment, to be followed by sixty months of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $400.00 and a $100.00 special assessment.
This case results from an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) joint investigation conducted by the Cheyenne Police Department, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 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.
Aberdeen Woman Indicted for Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Aberdeen, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Distribution of Oxycodone.
Sheila Salas, age 55, was indicted on December 10, 2019. She appeared through counsel 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 20 years in federal prison and/or a $1,000,000 fine, a lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on September 7, 2018, Salas knowingly and intentionally distributed a prescription drug containing oxycodone in Aberdeen, South Dakota. The male victim, to whom Salas unlawfully distributed the oxycodone, suffered a fatal overdose the same day.
The charge is merely an accusation and Salas is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Aberdeen Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Salas was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
A Female Charged with Illegal Purchase and Transfer of FirearmsRead the Press Release
Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Hanna N. DeCicco (age 22) of Milwaukee with Making a False Statement to a Federal Firearms Dealer, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(a)(6) and 924(a)(2) on July 10, 2019.
DeCicco is charged with one count of being a straw purchaser of firearm. She knowningly made a false and fictitious that she was the actual buyer of the firearm, when in fact, she was acquiring the firearm for someone else. DeCicco faces a maximum of ten years of imprisonment, three years of supervised released, and a $250,000 fine.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a federal, state, and local law enforcement collaboration to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals responsible for violent crimes in our neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods’ strategy brings together all levels of law enforcement and community resources to reduce violent crime and improve the quality of life in all our neighborhoods.
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.
This case was investigated by the Milwaukee Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin A. Wesson.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which time the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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17 Defendants Indicted for $10 Million Conspiracy to Distribute 1,000 Kilos of MethRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A total of 17 defendants, primarily from the Kansas City metropolitan area, have been indicted for their roles in a nearly $10 million conspiracy to distribute almost 1,000 kilograms of methamphetamine.
Fahrudin F. Fejzic, also known as “Frank,” 48, Steven M. Lyons, also known as “Pops,” 60, Shelly Marie Exton, 38, Mary L. Corona, 38, and Jesus Banuelos Jr., 21, all of Kansas City, Missouri; Jessica E. Ashworth, also known as “Barbie,” 30, of Kansas City, Kansas; Justin D. Warren, 31, and Crystell A. Smith, 34, both of Independence, Missouri; John W. Tatom, 48, of Leavenworth, Kansas; and Lesley A. Wilkerson, 45, of Clinton, Missouri, were charged in a 44-count second superseding indictment that was returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Missouri, on Wednesday, March 11. That indictment was unsealed and made public today upon the arrests and initial court appearances of several defendants.
The second superseding indictment adds those 10 defendants to previous indictments that included seven additional defendants: Mirza Alihodzic, also known as “Poni Boi” and “Russian,” 34, a citizen of Bosnia residing in Kansas City, Missouri; Jason D. Rice, 42, Brandy N. Foster, 37, and Keith Dale Hughes, 48, all of Kansas City, Missouri; Michael B. Becher, 38, of Raytown, Missouri; Joshua A. Brown, 36, of Leavenworth; and Amy S. Janish, 44, of Lincoln, Missouri.
The federal indictment alleges that all of the defendants participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine from Sept. 1, 2018, to Nov. 5, 2019. The indictment also charges all of the defendants with a related money-laundering conspiracy.
The indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation, which would require payment of a money judgment representing all of the proceeds each defendant obtained as a result of the alleged drug-trafficking conspiracy. The forfeiture is based on a conservative street price of $2,300 for 226 grams (a half-pound) of methamphetamine and the total conspiracy distribution of nearly 979 kilograms (978,859 grams) of methamphetamine, totaling approximately $9,961,839.
In addition to the two conspiracy counts, Alihodzic is also charged with two counts of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, illegally possessing a machine gun, two counts of possessing a stolen firearm, possessing an unregistered firearm, possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number, and three counts related to distributing methamphetamine.
The indictment also charges various other defendants in the remaining counts with illegally possessing firearms and with possessing and distributing methamphetamine.
According to an affidavit filed in the original criminal complaint, Alihodzic made arrangements with a confidential source to pilot an airplane to California to purchase 40 kilograms of methamphetamine from a Mexican national who is wanted by federal law enforcement for drug trafficking. On Nov. 5, 2019 – the day of the trip – Alihodzic and the confidential source went inside Alihodzic’s residence. Federal agents heard popping noises similar to that of a firearm and the screaming sound of human voices. Investigators determined, based upon the safety of the individuals inside of the residence, to enter the residence. Alihodzic was taken into custody; no evidence of a violent act was immediately observed.
The affidavit also cites previous instances in which Alihodzic was confronted by law enforcement.
Law enforcement investigators were conducting surveillance at Alihodzic’s residence on Feb. 19, 2019. On that day, the affidavit says, investigators seized approximately six pounds of methamphetamine and two firearms, including an AK-47 type assault pistol with two high capacity magazines. Investigators also executed a search warrant at Alihodzic’s residence and seized additional methamphetamine and firearms. They also seized 18 firearms from Alihodzic’s vehicle, including a fully automatic machine gun, two sawed-off shotguns, and a stolen firearm.
Alihodzic was also involved in a shooting on July 5, 2019, in the area of 6th Street and Tracy Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri, according to the affidavit. Alihodzic was the driver of a Ford F250 pickup from which law enforcement officers seized two firearms. Officers also found a number of spent shell casings on top of the truck, in the street, and in a nearby residence’s front yard.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley K. Kavanaugh and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean T. Foley. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the FBI, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Mid-Missouri Drug Task Force.
Project Safe Neighborhoods
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is partnering with federal, state, and local law enforcement to specifically identify criminals responsible for significant violent crime in the Western District of Missouri. A centerpiece of this effort is Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program that brings together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Safe Neighborhoods is an evidence-based program that identifies the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develops comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, Project Safe Neighborhoods focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.17 Alleged Members and Associates of MS-13 in San Francisco Charged Federally with Racketeering Conspiracy, Attempted Murder, Assault, and Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO- A federal grand jury indicted 17 Bay Area residents for a broad range of racketeering crimes including RICO conspiracy, attempted murder, and assault, announced United States Attorney David L. Anderson and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Tatum King. The Superseding Indictment handed down February 18, 2020 and unsealed today catalogues a litany of crimes allegedly perpetrated in and around the Mission District of San Francisco.
“San Francisco continues to suffer from gang violence and gang claims on our public spaces,” said U.S. Attorney Anderson. “I am grateful to the men and women of Homeland Security Investigations and the San Francisco Police Department for their professionalism and teamwork. San Francisco is safer when we all work together. We will oppose gang activity with professional law enforcement and vigorous prosecutions.”
“MS-13 gang members prey upon the communities they live in, committing the most heinous violent acts against their victims. The streets of San Francisco and the surrounding communities are safer when criminal gang members are held to account for their crimes,” said Special Agent In Charge King. “I’m proud of our agents’ exhaustive investigative work, together with the San Francisco Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in bringing these subjects to justice. We also appreciate the law enforcement assistance with yesterday’s successful criminal arrests provided by the South San Francisco Police Department, the Mountain View Police Department and the San Mateo County Gang Intelligence Unit.”
According to the superseding indictment, the defendants were members of the transnational criminal organization MS-13. MS-13 operates in El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, Mexico, and at least 20 states in the United States. The superseding indictment describes how the 20th Street clique of MS-13 relies on crime to operate, including to avoid detection by law enforcement, to initiate new recruits, to enhance the reputation of the gang and individual gang members, to maintain control of drug distribution channels, and to intimidate people who might testify against or otherwise defy the gang.
In this case, the superseding indictment alleges 14 of the defendants conspired to engage in racketeering for the purpose of preserving the power, territory, reputation, and profits of the local MS-13 clique, known as MS-13 20th Street. The superseding indictment describes how MS-13 20th Street members bear tattoos, wear certain colors, and display gang signs to demonstrate allegiance to the clique. Also described in the superseding indictment is how the gang seeks to maintain control of drug “turf” by relying on robbery, extortion, and other violent crimes, including stabbings and shootings.
Listed in the superseding indictment are dates on which particular defendants allegedly committed crimes to further the purposes of the gang. For example, the superseding indictment alleges that, on September 16, 2016, defendants Alexis Cruz Zepeda, a/k/a Zorro, and Kevin Reyes Melendez, a/k/a Neutron, fired shots at a suspected gang rival. Cruz Zepeda and Reyes Melendez then fled the scene in a vehicle allegedly driven by Ronaldy Dominguez, a/k/a “Smokey,” who, after a high-speed chase, evaded police by driving the wrong way down the Vermont Street off ramp of Highway 101. The victim suffered five gunshot entry and exit wounds but survived. Similarly, the superseding indictment alleges that, on November 26, 2017, when MS-13 gang members attempted to extort cash and drugs from street dealers, defendant Elmer Rodriguez, a/k/a Gordo, shot a victim in the chest at close range with a 12-gauge shotgun. Documents filed by the government in the case include a memorandum arguing that the violent nature of the alleged crimes should be considered when the court makes decisions regarding pre-trial detention. The government’s filings include surveillance footage allegedly depicting an attack described in paragraph 26 of the superseding indictment. The video of the incident can be viewed at the following link: https://youtu.be/waUtxpqZEGM.
In all, the superseding indictment charges 10 crimes of violence allegedly perpetrated by the defendants. The charges pending against each defendant are as follows:
Defendant
Age
Charges
Maximum Statutory Penalty
ROGELIO BELLOSO ALEMAN
a/k/a “Smiley”
26
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
EDWIN ALVARADO AMAYA
a/k/a “Muerte”
22
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
Life in prison
Fine of $250,000
Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(5) and 2
10 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
FERNANDO ROMERO BONILLA
a/k/a “Black”
22
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
KENNETH CAMPOS,
a/k/a “Nesio”
30
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering (two counts)
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
EVERT
GALDAMEZ
CISNEROS
a/k/a “Talentoso”
22
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
LUIS VELIS DIAZ
a/k/a “Popa”
21
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
RONALDY DOMINGUEZ,
a/k/a “Smokey”
24
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
Life in prison
Fine of $250,000
Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. § 1959(a)(5) and 2
10 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering (two counts)
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
OSCAR ESPINAL
a/k/a “Chuy”
29
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
Life in prison
Fine of $250,000
Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(5) and 2
10 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
WILFREDO IRAHETA LANDAVERDE
a/k/a “Wally”
20
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
KEVIN REYES MELENDEZ
a/k/a “Neutron”
26
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
Life in prison
Fine of $250,000
Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(5) and 2
10 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Discharge of a Firearm During and in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence
18 U.S.C. § 924(c)
Life in prison
(Mandatory minimum of 5 years (7 years if brandished, 10 years if discharged))
Fine of $250,000
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
MISSAEL MENDOZA
19
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering (two counts)
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
CHRISTIAN QUINTANILLA
19
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering (two counts)
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
ELMER RODRIGUEZ
a/k/a “Gordo”
30
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
Life in prison
Fine of $250,000
Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(5) and 2
10 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Discharge of a Firearm During and in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence
18 U.S.C. § 924(c)
Life in prison
(Mandatory minimum of 5 years (7 years if brandished, 10 years if discharged)
Fine of $250,000
MARVIN OSEGUEDA SARAVIA
a/k/a “Chiquis”
19
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering (two counts)
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
KEVIN RAMIREZ VALENCIA
a/k/a “Delincuente”
22
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
ALEXIS
CRUZ
ZEPEDA
a/k/a “Zorro”
26
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
Life in prison
Fine of $250,000
Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(5) and 2
10 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Discharge of a Firearm During and in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence
18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)
Life in prison
(Mandatory minimum of 5 years (7 years if brandished, 10 years if discharged))
Fine of $250,000
KEVIN GUATEMALA ZEPEDA
a/k/a “Mision”
23
Racketeering Conspiracy
18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
Assault with a Dangerous Weapon in Aid of Racketeering
18 U.S.C. §§ 1959(a)(3) and 2
20 years in prison
Fine of $250,000
The court also may order additional terms of supervised release, fines, and restitution. Nevertheless, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court only after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The defendants are scheduled to make initial federal court appearances before U.S. Magistrate Court Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley today at 11:30 a.m.
This case is being prosecuted by the Organized Crime Strike Force of the Office of the United States Attorney. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by HSI and the San Francisco Police Department.
12 March 2020
Walterboro Gang Associate Found Guilty on Federal Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina --- Acting United States Attorney A. Lance Crick announced today that a federal jury convicted Quentin John Fishburne, a/k/a “Q”, 40, of Walterboro, on numerous firearms charges, including two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of conspiracy to make false statements in connection with the purchase of a firearm.
Evidence presented to the jury showed that in March 2018, Officers with the Walterboro Police Department discovered a loaded .40 caliber pistol under Fishburne’s seat at a traffic safety checkpoint. At the time, Fishburne was on federal supervision following a 2017 conviction for aiding and abetting attempted murder in aid of racketeering. This conviction arose from a November 6, 2015, shooting in Colleton County, in which members and associates of Walterboro’s violent street gang disputed the outcome of an illegal car race and then attempted to rob a man holding money wagered on the race. Two men were shot, but authorities were not able to identify all of the shooters. Fishburne admitted to being an associate of the gang and driving another gang member from the scene of the shooting, and he received a time-served sentence.
Shortly after Fishburne was arrested with the .40 caliber pistol, his girlfriend, who had purchased the pistol from a Walterboro gun store, claimed that she had inadvertently left the gun in the vehicle Fishburne was driving. Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) became suspicious, however, when they discovered that Fishburne had previously been arrested with another gun purchased by the same woman.
Additionally, ballistic analysis showed the gun discovered under Fishburne’s seat matched three .40 caliber shell casings recovered from the scene of the November 6, 2015, shooting involving the gang, the same shooting that led to Fishburne’s 2017 conviction.
Fishburne was also convicted of possessing another firearm purchased by the same girlfriend, which was recovered by deputies of the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office following a high speed chase involving Fishburne in 2014. In this incident, Fishburne fled from deputies and reached speeds of over 90 miles-an-hour on country roads while he and his passenger brandished handguns at the pursuing officer.
The jury heard testimony from the officers and deputies who recovered these firearms from Fishburne, the ATF special agent who uncovered the pattern of Fishburne’s girlfriend providing him with guns, and a South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) firearms expert who linked the .40 caliber pistol discovered with Fishburne in 2018 to shell casings from the November 6, 2015 shooting. The jury took only three hours to find Fishburne guilty on all charges.
Fishburne previously spent ten years in a Georgia prison after killing his 18-year-old cousin over a dice game when he was 14 years old.
Fishburne faces of maximum penalty of 25 years in federal prison. United States District Judge David C. Norton, who presided over the day-and-a-half long trial, will sentence him after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the United States Probation Office.
The case was investigated by the ATF, SLED, the Walterboro Police Department, and the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was also made possible by investigative leads generated from ATF’s National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms. NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles. For more information on NIBIN, visit https://www.atf.gov/firearms/national-integrated-ballistic-information-network-nibin.
Assistant United States Attorney Chris Schoen and Special Assistant United States Attorney Carra Henderson, both of the Charleston office, prosecuted the case.
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The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
Wakonda Man Charged for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wakonda, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Ricky Bryan Giedd, age 50, was indicted on March 3, 2020. He appeared before Veronica L. Duffy on March 5, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $10 million fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Beginning at an unknown date and continuing to on or about February, 2020, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Ricky Bryan Giedd, did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate, and agree together, with others known and unknown, to knowingly and intentionally distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge is merely an accusation and Giedd is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash is prosecuting the case.
Giedd was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Unlicensed Gun Show Dealers Plead Guilty to Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Three firearm vendors who operated at DFW gun shows have pleaded guilty to unlicensed dealing, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox. None of the defendants were conducting background checks on their buyers.
Raleigh Merriam Selby III, 56, Jack Don Sims, 57, and James Cary Bennett, 79, each pleaded guilty to engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license before Magistrate Judge Irma C. Ramirez Thursday morning.
“Today, we’re taking aim at unlicensed dealers who allow guns to fall into dangerous hands,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “I’m proud to bring this case under Project Guardian, the Attorney General’s gun violence reduction initiative. Hopefully, these pleas send a message to would-be offenders: If you violate federal firearms laws, you will be held accountable for the guns you’ve illegally injected into our communities.”
“Engaging in the business of selling firearms without a license circumvents regulations designed to identify prohibitors such as felony offenses, dishonorable discharge from military service or substance abuse," stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II. “The firearms transfers made by Mr. Bennett, Mr. Selby and Mr. Sims undermine community safety and hinder the investigation of firearms recovered at crime scenes.”
Federal law requires that dealers engaged in the business of dealing firearms – defined as repeatedly devoting time and attention to purchasing and reselling guns for monetary gain – obtain Federal Firearms Licenses and run background checks on potential buyers. (Hobbyists who sell weapons in one-off private transactions are not required to be licensed or to run background checks.)
According to plea papers, Mr. Bennett, Mr. Selby, and Mr. Sims were caught engaging in the business of selling firearms without a license during an undercover investigation at several Dallas-area gun shows, including Big Town in Mesquite, Will Rogers Coliseum in Fort Worth, and Market Hall in Dallas.
None of them entered potential buyers into the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, NICS.
The defendants admit that many of the guns they sold ended up in the hands of prohibited persons, including a man convicted of drug dealing and another convicted of willful cruelty to a child. Others were recovered at crime scenes, from California to Florida to Mexico.
Both Mr. Bennett and Mr. Sims admit they explicitly promoted that sales at their booths involved “no paperwork” – in other words, no background check. Mr. Bennett even admits that he dealt in .380 caliber pistols, “preferred firearms for trafficking to Mexico.”
Each defendant now faces up to five years in federal prison.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian McKay and Damien Diggs are prosecuting the cases, brought under Project Guardian, the Justice Department's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.
Two San Gabriel Valley Residents Arrested in Marriage Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – As part of a multistate investigation, two San Gabriel Valley residents were arrested this morning on federal charges that allege they orchestrated a scheme in which Chinese nationals paid up to $60,000 to enter into sham marriages with United States citizens in the hope of obtaining lawful permanent resident status – commonly called getting a “Green Card” – that would allow them to legally reside in the United States.
In addition to the two Los Angeles-area residents, special agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) arrested two Chinese nationals who each paid tens of thousands of dollars to enter into sham marriages with United States citizens to obtain Green Cards. The United States citizens in these situations were actually undercover HSI agents.
The criminal complaint that led to the arrests outlines how the sham marriages were arranged and how the participants were coached to make their marriages appear legitimate. Specifically, the arrangers recruited United States citizens to enter into marriages with Chinese nationals, and then they filed immigration documents with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The arrangers coached the Chinese nationals and United States citizens on how to make their marriages appear genuine and pass interviews conducted by the USCIS, such as by creating a fraudulent paper trail for the couples and memorizing answers to questions immigration service officers could ask during their USCIS interviews.
The four defendants arrested Thursday morning are:
- Xiulan “Cindy” Wang, 46, of San Gabriel, the owner of Pacific Bizhub Consulting;
- Chang Yu “Andy” He, 54, of Monterey Park, the owner of Fair Price Immigration Service, who was taken into custody in San Diego County;
- Zhongnan Liu, 33, of San Diego, who allegedly paid for a sham marriage; and
- Huanzhang Wu, 28, of Saint Paul, Minnesota, who also allegedly paid for a “marriage” to obtain a Green Card.
A fifth defendant in this case is currently a fugitive being sought by authorities.
According to the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint, in the course of arranging the sham marriages involving the undercover HSI agents, He coached the “couples” on how to make their relationships appear legitimate to bypass U.S. immigration laws. He allegedly instructed them to obtain joint bank accounts and joint apartment leases, keep clothes in the apartments where the couples supposedly lived together, and visit the apartment several days a week so the neighbors would see them together.
The affidavit describes how the defendants went to considerable lengths to make the unions appear real. For example, He arranged one “marriage” ceremony at the Chapel of Love inside The Mall of America where Wu and an undercover agent took their wedding vows and swore under oath that the information they provided on their marriage license was true and accurate. After the ceremony and before leaving the mall, He paid the undercover agent $10,000, and then Wu and the undercover agent proceeded to file the marriage certificate with the county clerk.
The investigation in this case began in March 2017 based on information provided by an anonymous source. Law enforcement authorities believe the defendants’ clients learned about the service through word of mouth or from advertisements in Chinese newspapers.
Wang made her initial appearance this afternoon in United States District Court in Los Angeles, and she was ordered released on a $100,000 bond. Wang’s arraignment was scheduled for April 9.
Wu appeared earlier today in the District of Minnesota, where he was ordered detained pending further proceedings there on Monday. He and Wu are expected to make their first court appearances Friday in federal court in San Diego.
A criminal complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
If they were to be convicted of the charge of conspiracy to commit marriage fraud, each defendant named in this case would face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.
This case is the result of a three-year undercover investigation by the Los Angeles Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force, which is led by HSI and includes the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, and USCIS’ Fraud Detection and National Security unit. The San Gabriel Police Department, the West Covina Police Department, and the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk assisted in the investigation.
This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert S. Trisotto and Jerry C. Yang of the Riverside Branch Office.
Two Indicted on Federal Charges Stemming from Twelve Robberies in Six CountiesRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announces that a federal grand jury sitting in Greenville indicted two individuals on numerous robbery and firearm offenses, stemming from a string of armed robberies of local businesses across six counties in July of 2019.
JACOB EVANS, 23, of Gates, and JEQUAYVES BRITT, 19, of Sharpsburg, were each indicted on twelve counts of interference of interstate commerce by robbery and twelve counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. The indictment alleges that EVANS and BRITT robbed or attempted to rob twelve separate businesses in Nash, Wilson, Halifax, Edgecombe, Pitt, and Greene counties in July of 2019. In each instance, EVANS and BRITT are alleged to have possessed a firearm in furtherance of the robbery. If convicted, EVANS and BRITT face penalties of up to life imprisonment.
These cases are 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. Since 2017, the United States Department of Justice has reinvigorated the PSN program and has targeted 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.
That effort has been implemented through the Take Back North Carolina Initiative of The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement. For more information about this initiative click here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/tbnc.
The charges and allegations contained in the Indictment are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Rocky Mount Police Department, Wilson Police Department, Roanoke Rapids Police Department, Greenville Police Department, Sharpsburg Police Department, Pine Tops Police Department, Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, Greene County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigations in this matter. Assistant United States Attorney J.D. Koesters is prosecuting the case for the government.
Two Cherry Creek Men Charged with Murder, Asault, and Tampering with EvidenceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that two Cherry Creek, South Dakota, men have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Second Degree Murder, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Tampering with Evidence.
Jerome White Horse, Jr., age 60, was indicted on March 9, 2020, for Second Degree Murder, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. Samuel White Horse, age 31, was indicted on March 9, 2020, for Second Degree Murder, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Tampering with Evidence. They both appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 11, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is life in prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on February 12, 2020, at Cherry Creek, South Dakota, Jerome and Samuel assaulted and, with malice aforethought, murdered a male victim by beating him with a garden hoe. Samuel later concealed the garden hoe with the intent to impair its availability for use in and obstruct the criminal investigation. Jerome is Samuel’s father.
The charges are merely accusations and Jerome and Samuel are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Jerome and Samuel were both remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for May 5, 2020.
Two Charged in Connection with Drug Activity at 50 Central Street, Brattleboro, VermontRead the Press Release
The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that on March 11, 2020, Matthew Sinclair, 24, and Jorge Delaoz, 51, were arrested and charged with violations of the federal Controlled Substances Act in connection with drug activity at 50 Central Street in Brattleboro, Vermont.According to Court records, Sinclair and Delaoz engaged in drug transactions in January and February, selling cocaine base to a confidential informant inside the apartment located at 50 Central Street. During one of the controlled purchases, Sinclair was observed cooking cocaine base on the stove in the kitchen of the apartment. On the morning of March 12, 2020, detectives with the Vermont Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at the premises. Delaoz attempted to flee by jumping out of a second-story window of the residence. Delaoz was found in possession of suspected cocaine base and heroin at the time of his arrest. Sinclair was located in the bathroom of the residence, and was attempting to flush approximately 37 grams of cocaine base down the toilet. A search of the room out of which Delaoz jumped revealed a Taurus .380 caliber pistol in close proximity to a set of car keys for Sinclair’s vehicle.
The case is being investigated by the Vermont State Police Southern Vermont Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The defendants made their initial appearance on March 11, 2020 before U.S. Magistrate Judge John M. Conroy, and were ordered detained pending a detention hearing on March 16, 2020.
If convicted, Delaoz and Sanchez each face up to twenty years of imprisonment on each charge. The actual sentences, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines. The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charges contained in the complaints are merely accusations and that the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty.
The United States is represented in this matter by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt. Matthew Sinclair is represented by Stephanie Greenlees, Esq. Jorge Delaoz is represented by Michael Straub, Esq.
Tangipahoa Man Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act and Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – AARON NAKEENEN WOMACK, a/k/a AARONE NAKEENAN WOMACK, 23, of Ponchatoula, LA, and SHAWANDA MCKAY, 50, of Independence, LA, were charged March 6, 2020, in a five-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury with violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, and witness tampering, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.
According to court records, WOMACK conspired to traffic more than 500 grams of methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Louisiana in February 2020, and possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted, WOMACK faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of at least 15 years and up to life, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least 5 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
Furthermore, after WOMACK’s arrest, MCKAY threatened a witness in the investigation, in an attempt to influence, delay, or prevent the testimony of that witness. If convicted, MCKAY faces a term of imprisonment of up to 20 years, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the defendants’ guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations Border Enforcement Security Task Force, which is an initiative of the Gulf Coast High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, with assistance from Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisiana State Police, Hammond Police Department, Ponchatoula Police Department, St. Helena Parish Sheriff’s Office, Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Paige O’Hale is in charge of the prosecution.
St. Clair County Man Indicted for Armed CarjackingRead the Press Release
St. Louis – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today against Keyshaun Jenkins, 19, of St. Clair County, Illinois, Missouri, on multiple criminal counts stemming from a February 28, 2020 carjacking.
According to court documents, on February 28, 2020, C.X. and C.G. were looking at the backup camera of C.X.’s Volkswagen Passat. While standing outside the car, Jenkins and another individual were wearing masks, all dark clothing and approached carrying handguns. One of the men struck C.X. in the side of the head with a gun and demanded his car keys, cell phone, and the password to his cell phone, which C.X. turned over. The other man pointed a gun at victim C.G. and demanded her cell phone and password. C.G. complied. The men got into C.X.’s Passat and drove away.
At the time of the carjacking, Jenkins was on supervised release at time for his prior conviction of possession of a stolen firearm. At the time of his arrest on March 4, 2020, Jenkins was carrying a bag which contained the key to C.X.’s Volkswagen Passat and other belongings of C.X.
Jenkins has been charged with one felony count of carjacking and one felony count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime. Charges set forth in the indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
If convicted, carjacking carries a penalty of not more than fifteen years and a fine of $250,000 and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime carries a penalty of not less than seven years and no more than life and a fine of $250,000.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation jointly investigating the case.
South Dakota Man Indicted on Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a South Dakota man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
John Thin Elk, age 42, was indicted on March 3, 2020. He appeared before Veronica L. Duffy on March 6, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
If convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Thin Elk faces a mandatory 10 years, with a maximum penalty life, in custody and/or a $10 million fine, a mandatory period 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. The maximum penalty upon conviction for the Felon in Possession of a Firearm is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges are merely accusations and Thin Elk is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga is prosecuting the case.
Thin Elk was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
South Bend, Indiana Woman Sentenced to 10 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SOUTH BEND - Kayla Hampton, age 28, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced in South Bend before United States District Court Judge Jon E. DeGuilio to 120 months in prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II.
According to documents in this case, a group of individuals sold heroin between March 2017 through October 2017 in the South Bend and Mishawaka area. Members of the conspiracy shared cellphones to arrange heroin sales. Each would receive pre-packaged heroin from someone in the conspiracy, and then sell it to customers who called the cell phone. Hampton provided heroin and telephones to members of the group during part of those months, collected the proceeds from the sellers and occasionally sold heroin herself. Individual sellers routinely sold ten grams within a few hours or less. Hampton admitted she was responsible for distributing at least one kilogram of heroin, though the group was responsible for distributing over ten kilograms during the life of the conspiracy. Hampton was previously convicted of kidnapping, and she engaged in this heroin distribution conspiracy while awaiting sentencing in that case.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance from the St. Joseph County Drug Investigations Unit, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office, the Indiana State Police, and the Elkhart Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Joel Gabrielse and Molly Donnelly handled the case.
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Six Defendants Sentenced to Prison Terms for Running South Dade Drug Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
Miami, Florida -- U.S. District Judge Marcia G. Cooke sentenced six defendants, all from South Florida, to prison terms for their roles in an extensive drug trafficking operation located in Perrine, Florida. Their prison sentences are as follows:
- Tedrick King, 45, the leader of the drug ring, received 148 months.
- Wilhemnia Nottage, 35, received 20 months.
- Cory Evans, 28, received 30 months.
- Christopher McCollur (a/k/a “Block”), 32, received 48 months.
- Keyon Harris, 37, received 60 months.
- Jonis Webster (a/k/a “J.J.”), 39, received 18 months.
Ariana Fajardo Orshan, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, George L. Piro, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Miami Field Office, Kevin W. Carter, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Miami Field Office, and Alfredo Ramirez III, Director, Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD) made the announcement.
According to court records, from at least October 2018 through June 2019, Defendants ran a 24-hour, seven-day per week drug operation out of two locations in Perrine, Florida. In July 2019, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at the two locations and at the home of defendant King, the leader of the drug operation. They seized approximately 941 grams of cocaine, 221 grams of crack cocaine, 1006 grams of marijuana, and 145 grams of eutylone (which defendants sold as “Molly”).
Prior to receiving their prison sentences, each defendant pled guilty to his or her role in the drug trafficking operation.
This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high-level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises.
The case also involved the U.S. Attorney’s Office Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP) initiative. Through the VRP, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and its federal and local law enforcement allies have sought to dismantle the most violent criminal networks that plague communities throughout the Southern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Fajardo Orshan commended the FBI, DEA, and MDPD for their investigative efforts and the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office for its assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cary O. Aronovitz prosecuted this case.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Sioux Falls Man Charged with Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited PersonRead 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 Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Person.
Vasiliy Vasilyevic Manuylo, age 25, was indicted on March 3, 2020. He appeared before Veronica L. Duffy on March 5, 2020, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
On or about January 26, 2020, in the District of South Dakota, Manuylo, knowing he had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, and then being an unlawful user of and addicted to a controlled substance, did knowingly possess a firearm and ammunition, which had been shipped and transported in interstate commerce.
The charge is merely an accusation and Manuylo is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash is prosecuting the case.
Manuylo was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has been set for May 12, 2020.
San Clemente Agrees to Comply with Federal Law Stemming from Its Replacement of Two Bus Routes with Lyft Ridesharing ServiceRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – The City of San Clemente has entered into a settlement agreement with the United States to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to its transportation program, the Department of Justice announced today.
Since October 2016, San Clemente has provided reduced-fare rides through the Lyft ridesharing service for persons along two discontinued bus routes. The Justice Department opened a compliance review to ascertain whether San Clemente’s Lyft program complied with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). From October 2016 to March 2018, persons with disabilities who needed wheelchair-accessible vehicles could not use San Clemente’s Lyft program because it did not offer such vehicles.
The settlement agreement requires San Clemente to take several steps to ensure that its program complies with the ADA. Individuals with disabilities will have equivalent access to the program, including the abilities to reserve wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
Assistant United States Attorney Acrivi Coromelas of the Civil Division’s Civil Rights Section handled this matter.
For more information on the ADA or this settlement agreement, please call the toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 or (800) 514-0383 (TDD), or access the ADA website at http://www.ada.gov.
This year marks the ADA’s 30th anniversary. The Department of Justice – including the U.S. Attorney’s Office – plays a central role in advancing the nation’s goal of equal opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for people with disabilities.