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8 January 2020
Owner of Tax Return Preparation Business Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
A New York tax return preparer was sentenced to 36 months in prison today for wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and assisting in the preparation and filing of false returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Oyeniyi Jaiyesimi was the owner of Pace Financial Services, a tax preparation business located in Springfield Gardens, New York. From 2014 through 2016, Jaiyesimi used stolen identities to file fraudulent tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in order to obtain refunds to which he was not entitled. Jaiyesimi also filed false tax returns on behalf of his clients that claimed fraudulent dependent exemptions in order to obtain larger refunds for them.
In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Edward R. Korman ordered Jaiyesimi to serve two years of supervised release and to pay approximately $58,000 in restitution to the United States.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman commended the special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Mark McDonald and Eric Powers of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting the case.
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.
Operation Free Market Update: Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing FentanylRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man pled guilty to selling fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Bryant Holloway, 41, pled guilty to distributing 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Holloway admitted that on April 24, 2019, he sold 95 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant for $10,000.
“95 grams of fentanyl -- enough to kill almost 50,000 people,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Fentanyl is powerful and deadly. Many West Virginians have died as a result of fentanyl overdoses. We owe a debt of gratitude to the investigators that kept this from hitting the streets of Huntington.”
Holloway faces between five and forty years in prison when sentenced on April 6, 2020.
Operation Free Market was a long-term drug investigation in the Huntington area. The investigation was the result of a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
The plea hearing was held before United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor handled the prosecution.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.), an enforcement surge that seeks to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas.
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Oklahoma Woman Sentenced for Transporting Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Yvette Davila, age 34, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was sentenced today to time served (23 days in jail), followed by a one-year period of supervised release, and to pay a fine of $1,000, for transporting two illegal aliens within the United States.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Robert N. Garcia, Chief Patrol Agent, United States Border Patrol, Swanton Sector.
On December 19, 2018, Davila drove to the international border near Trout River, New York, from Chelsea, Massachusetts, where she met with and picked up two illegal aliens from Mexico. The aliens, Miguel Morales-Moreno and Cesar Ivan Almada-Velazquez, had avoided immigration inspection when they walked across the border east of the Trout River Port of Entry late on the night of December 19, 2018.
Morales-Moreno and Almada-Velazquez walked to a spot south of the border where they waited for Davila. After arriving at the border area the morning of December 20, 2018, Davila stopped and picked up Morales-Moreno and Almada-Velazquez. Border Patrol Agents encountered Davila’s car parked on the side of Route 11 just east of Chateaugay, New York, where they arrested Davila and her two passengers.
The passengers, Miguel Morales-Moreno, age 43, and Cesar Ivan Almada-Velazquez, age 38, citizens of Mexico, were convicted of the misdemeanor offense of entry without inspection by an alien on January 3, 2019 and each sentenced to 20 days in jail.
This case was investigated by Border Patrol and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward P. Grogan.
Ohio man who pretended to be missing Illinois boy pleads guilty to aggravated identity theftRead the Press Release
CINCINNATI – An Ohio man who pretended to be a missing Illinois boy pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today to aggravated identity theft.
Michael Rini, 23, formerly of Medina, Ohio, was charged by criminal complaint on April 6, 2019 and indicted by a grand jury on April 18, 2019.
According to court documents, Newport, Ky. police officers responded to a call on April 3, 2019 in which the caller described Rini as wandering the street, looking confused and in need of assistance.
Rini told officers his name was a minor who had been abducted when he was six years old and he “just wanted to go home.”
Local authorities confirmed that the identity Rini provided was associated with a missing and possibly abducted child. Specifically, in 2011, the then six-year-old boy went missing from Aurora, Ill.
Posing as the missing child, Rini claimed he was 14 and had recently escaped from a hotel room in which two men had been holding him captive. He said he had been sexually and physically abused for years while in captivity and that he was having abdominal pain.
Rini was transferred to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Emergency Room because of the complaint of abdominal pain, and there, FBI task force officers met with Rini to potentially investigate sex trafficking and crimes against children. FBI special agents and a detective from the Aurora, Ill. police department also spoke with Rini.
Rini continued to claim to be the missing boy throughout conversations in the hospital. He refused to provide his fingerprints to investigators at Children’s Hospital; however, eventually, he agreed to submit a buccal swab for DNA testing.
DNA test results confirmed Rini’s identity. As a prior felon, Rini’s DNA was known to the FBI. Ohio Department of Corrections records indicate Rini was released from an Ohio prison on March 7, 2019.
Once law enforcement officers confronted Rini about his true identity, Rini immediately stated he was not the missing child. He said he watched a story about the child on 20/20 and stated he wanted to get away from his own family.
Further investigation by the FBI found that Rini had allegedly portrayed himself as a juvenile sex trafficking victim on two prior occasions. In those instances, he was only identified once he was fingerprinted.
Aggravated identity theft is a federal crime punishable by a mandatory two-year term of imprisonment. Congress sets the maximum statutory sentence. Sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the Court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
David M. DeVillers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Chris Hoffman, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; Robert Brown, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville, Ky. Division; Cincinnati Police Chief Eliot K. Isaac; Newport Police Chief Thomas Collins; Vance Callender, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Hamilton County Coroner Dr. Lakshmi Sammarco; Hamilton County Sheriff Jim Neil and officials with the Aurora, Ill. Police Department announced the plea entered into today before U.S. District Judge Michael R. Barrett. Assistant United States Attorney Kyle J. Healey and Deputy Criminal Chief Christy L. Muncy are representing the United States in this case.
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Ohio County man admits to drug distributionRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Hermon Clemons, Jr., of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to drug distribution, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Clemons, age 50, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances.” Clemons admitted to working with others to distribute cocaine base, methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl in Ohio County and elsewhere from September 2018 to June 2019.
Clemons faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn M. Adkins is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
New York Man Sentenced for Assault Aboard Cruise ShipRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A New York man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for assaulting a woman aboard a cruise ship.
Adam Damian Panetta, 45, of Farmingville, N.Y., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to two months in prison, two years of supervised release and a $1,000 fine. In September 2019, Panetta pleaded guilty to one count of assault resulting in substantial bodily injury. Panetta was arrested and charged in April 2019.
On April 25, 2019, while aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Gem, Panetta was observed on surveillance video pulling a woman by her hair down the full length of a hallway. The two were then observed outside one of the cabins. While Panetta attempted to open the cabin door, the woman stuck Panetta in the face with an open hand. Panetta then turned toward the woman and punched her twice in the side of her head with a closed fist. The woman fell to the ground and appeared to be unconscious. Panetta then entered the cabin and left the woman on the floor in the hallway. After about one minute, Panetta came out of the cabin and leaned down to the woman, who was unresponsive. Eventually, the woman began to crawl into the room. Panetta did not appear to assist her, and as she began to crawl, Panetta kicked her twice in the buttocks. He then followed her into the room.
The two left the room a short while later and the woman was holding a white towel over her head, which appeared to be stained with blood. The two arrived at the ship’s medical center where the woman was treated for her injuries, which included approximately 8cm of swelling on the right side of her head as well as a 2.5 cm laceration that required five stiches.
At the time of the alleged assault, the ship was approximately 200 miles off the coast of Massachusetts. Panetta was taken into custody when the ship arrived into port in Boston.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Nashua Man Pleads Guilty to Participating in Drug Trafficking Conspiracy in Nashua AreaRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Lawrence Fortenberry, 66, of Nashua, pleaded guilty on Tuesday in federal court to participating in a conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Fortenberry was a member of a drug trafficking organization that distributed crack cocaine and other drugs to various customers in the Nashua area.
Fortenberry is scheduled to be sentenced on April 8, 2020.
“Drug trafficking has had a damaging effect on the health and safety of the citizens of Nashua and communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “In order to combat the threat posed by traffickers, we will continue to work closely with all of our law enforcement partners to bring those who distribute dangerous drugs to justice.”
"Lawrence Fortenberry conspired to flood the neighborhoods of Nashua with crack cocaine, and in doing so poured fuel on the vicious cycle of addiction for his own financial gain," said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. "We hope his acceptance of responsibility for his crime persuades others to think twice about going into business with a drug trafficking organization. As shown in this case, that alliance will be no match for the FBI's partnership with local, state and federal law enforcement."
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Nashua Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Georgiana Konesky and Anna Krasinski.
This case was supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations.
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Montgomery County Doctor Sentenced to 12 Months in Prison for Unlawfully Distributing OxyCodoneRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain and Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division announced that Richard Ira Mintz, D.O., 69, of Dresher, Pennsylvania was sentenced to one year and one day imprisonment, three years’ supervised release, and $100,000 fine by United States District Court Judge Michael Baylson for illegally distributing controlled substances.
The defendant pleaded guilty in March 2019 to eight counts of distributing controlled substances (oxycodone) outside the scope of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. Mintz has surrendered his medical license and DEA Certificate of Registration. From approximately July 2016 through July 2018, Mintz worked at a medical practice in Philadelphia where he sold fraudulent and medically unnecessary oxycodone prescriptions. He wrote the prescriptions in the names of three individuals whom he had never met or examined.
“As our District is struggling under the weight of the opioid epidemic, this doctor used his prescription pad to harm rather than heal,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “He saw an opportunity to make money off of those struggling with addiction and took advantage of the situation out of sheer greed. Physicians who abuse their positions of trust within the community for financial gain will be held accountable by my Office.”
“Dr. Mintz pleaded guilty to federal drug distribution charges for selling prescriptions for powerful and addictive prescription painkillers such as oxycodone without any legitimate medical purpose and for profit,” said Jonathan A. Wilson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Philadelphia Field Division. “Medical doctors, like all DEA registrants that are entrusted with handling controlled substances, need to do so in accordance with good faith medical practice and for legitimate medical purposes.”
This case originated as part of a regional Medicare Fraud Strike Force that operates in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and the District of New Jersey. The Strike Force is a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 federal districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General (HHS – OIG), the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Marshals’ Service, the Office of Pennsylvania Attorney General and the Philadelphia Police Department. Trial Attorney Adam G. Yoffie of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. Macko of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania handled the parallel civil case, in which defendant Mintz paid a $107,584 monetary penalty.
Monroe County Man Guilty of Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Akbar Muhammad, age 42, who resided in New York City and East Stroudsburg, pleaded guilty on January 7, 2019, before Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than a kilogram of heroin.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Muhammad admitted to participating in the conspiracy during 2015 through early 2019. Muhammad admitted that he agreed with others to obtain heroin from suppliers in New Jersey and New York, and distribute the drug to associates and customers in Monroe County. A kilogram of heroin is approximately equivalent to 40,000 retail bags of heroin.
Muhammad was indicted by a grand jury in May 2019, as a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania State Police, and Stroud Area Regional Police.
Judge Munley ordered a pre-sentence investigation to be completed. Sentencing is scheduled for April 8, 2020. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis P. Sempa 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.
This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offenses is life imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. There is also a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Mexico citizen arrested in illegal transportation case admits immigration crimeRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Mexico citizen pleaded guilty today to illegal re-entry after she was arrested in Glacier County with others during an investigation into possible alien smuggling from Canada, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Ma Mercedes Rivera-Gutierrez, 39, pleaded guilty to illegal re-entry into the United States after having been previously deported. Rivera-Gutierrez faces a maximum two years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Brian Morris presided and set sentencing for Feb. 6. Rivera-Gutierrez was detained pending further proceedings.
The prosecution said in court records that Rivera-Gutierrez was found in Glacier County on Nov. 17, 2019, shortly after she entered the United States. Rivera-Gutierrez had been removed from the United States in 2001, 2007 and 2012 and had not applied for permission to re-enter. Rivera-Gutierrez admitted she re-entered the United States on foot, north of Cut Bank, in Glacier County.
On Nov. 17, 2019, a Border Patrol agent observed a black Chevrolet Suburban traveling south on Highway 213 at about 10:45 p.m. and, based on intelligence and surveillance, had reason to believe the vehicle was being used to traffic undocumented aliens. When the agent activated his emergency lights and performed a traffic stop on the Suburban, multiple occupants absconded on foot into an agricultural field. Agents searched the field and arrested multiple persons, including Rivera-Gutierrez.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paulette Stewart is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
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Mexican national sent to prison for assaulting federal officerRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 41-year-old Mexican national has been ordered to prison after admitting he injured a Border Patrol (BP) agent by hitting him with arm shackles, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Salvador Ramirez-Olvera pleaded guilty June 4, 2019.
Today, U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera handed Ramirez-Olvera an 18-month sentence. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence.
On April 1, 2019, Ramirez-Olvera was in custody at the Brownsville BP station for illegal entry. While awaiting transfer to federal court, he slipped out of his arm shackles and hit the agent with them. The agent was hit on his shoulder area, thus causing bodily injury.
After a brief struggle, officers had to use a Taser to control Ramirez-Olvera.
He was then arrested and charged with assaulting a federal agent who was engaged in the performance of his official duties.
He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Esquivel and Ana Cano prosecuted the case.
Mexican National Sentenced on Heroin Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Mexican national was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston in connection with drug trafficking activities that resulted in the seizure of four kilograms of heroin.
Miguel Angel Morales Torres, 40, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 46 months in prison and two years of supervised release. Morales Torres will be subject to deportation proceedings upon completion of his sentence. In October 2019, Torres Morales pleaded guilty to one count of possession with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.
In August 2018, a cooperating witness arranged to purchase four kilograms of “china white,” referring to fentanyl, from a large-scale narcotics distributor for $55,000 per kilogram. The distributor agreed to deliver the drugs to the cooperating witness using a courier. On Aug. 20, 2018, Torres Morales drove a tractor trailer to the area of the “Park and Ride” parking lot on Granite Avenue in Milton to deliver the drugs. Federal agents stopped the tractor trailer and, in a cabinet behind the driver’s seat, located four brick-packed kilograms of heroin wrapped in cellophane.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren A. Graber and Alathea Porter of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Medical Doctor Arrested on Charges of Illegal Distribution of AdderallRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Fairfax medical doctor was arrested today on charges of illegally diverting Adderall.
According to allegations included in the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint, Dr. Gurpreet Singh Bajwa, 48, of Oakton, operated a medical practice in Fairfax. During a 21-month period between January 2017 and September 2018, Bajwa allegedly issued approximately 15,000 controlled substance prescriptions to more than 1,000 patients—a total of more than 700 prescriptions per month. Several local pharmacies had flagged Bajwa and would no longer fill prescriptions from him. The Virginia Department of Health Professions had previously suspended his medical license in 2012 for issues related to his prescription practices.
Beginning in summer 2018, two undercover law enforcement officers posed as patients and made appointments to see Bajwa. At each visit, Bajwa allegedly prescribed the undercover officers a 30-day supply of Adderall—despite the undercover officers not having a need for the medication. One of the officers told Bajwa that she was a fitness model and needed Adderall for her workouts, which is not a legitimate use for the substance. The undercover officer also asked Bajwa to prescribe her extra pills that she could give to a “friend” and he readily agreed.
Bajwa is charged with illegal distribution of Adderall, a Schedule II controlled substance. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison if convicted. 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.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Timothy M. Dunham, Special Agent in Charge, Criminal Division, FBI Washington Field Office; and Colonel Edwin C. Roessler Jr., Fairfax County Chief of Police, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine E. Rumbaugh is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:20-MJ-3.
A criminal complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
Man from Pinehill, New Mexico pleads guilty to assault and firearms charges in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Harrington Alonzo, 34, of Pinehill, New Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court in Albuquerque on January 6 to charges of assault with a dangerous weapon in Indian Country, and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and possessing and discharging the firearm in furtherance of such crime.
A grand jury previously returned an indictment against Alonzo on May 22, 2019.
According to Alonzo’s plea agreement, he committed this crime in Cibola County on April 24, 2019. Alonzo unlawfully assaulted a Navajo Nation police officer by shooting at the officer with a semiautomatic handgun. The officer was responding to a domestic dispute between Alonzo and his girlfriend. Alonzo is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation where this crime occurred. Alonzo is currently in custody pending sentencing.
The Gallup resident office of the FBI and the Ramah Navajo Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Novaline D. Wilson is prosecuting the case.
Man Sentenced to Prison for Heroin Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A Virginia Beach man was sentenced today to 14 years in prison for his role in a heroin trafficking conspiracy that crossed most of South Hampton Roads.
According to court documents, Ingram Cox, 35, regularly received heroin from co-defendant Kyam Washington, which Cox then sold to local drug dealers and users. The group imported bulk amounts of heroin from out-of-state sources, and at times used a common cell phone number that buyers would call to order drugs. Narcotics, multiple firearms, a bullet-proof vest, a commercial money counter, and nearly $100,000 were seized during search warrants of houses used by members of the conspiracy.
The case was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), Operation View Crew. The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Jesse R. Fong, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Field Division; Martin Culbreth, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; James A. Cervera, Chief of Virginia Beach Police; and Kelvin Wright, Chief of the Chesapeake Police Department, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Rebecca Beach Smith. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew C. Bosse, Joseph E. DePadilla, and John F. Butler prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:19-cr-006.
Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Drug Related MurderRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Hampton man was sentenced today to life in prison for use of a firearm resulting in death, drug conspiracy, attempted possession with intent to distribute ecstasy, and felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
“Damontaze Tillery is an admitted gang member with a history of violence,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “As a previously convicted felon, Tillery was prohibited from possessing a firearm when he murdered Javon Stephenson during a drug deal. Together with our law enforcement partners we are targeting areas where firearms and the drug trade are fueling violence and endangering the safety of those communities. I want to thank the prosecutors who brought this matter to trial, the ATF and the Newport News Police Department for their outstanding work on this case.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Damontaze Montrell Tillery, 24, arranged a trade of a firearm for ecstasy, provided by victim Javon Stephenson. In July 2018, Stephenson travelled from Virginia Beach to downtown Newport News to conduct the transaction with Tillery. During the trade, Tillery murdered Stephenson. Stephenson was unarmed and still in possession of ecstasy when he was found in his vehicle. The victim’s foot was still on the gas pedal when he was found, causing the tires to spin until a bystander turned the vehicle off. An off-duty Newport News firefighter responded after seeing the smoke coming from the vehicle, and upon approaching the vehicle, realized Stephenson had a gunshot wound to the chest. Stephenson was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Firearms in the hands of criminals and anyone with violent intentions create a major threat to our communities,” said Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Washington Field Division. “This defendant’s callous behavior not only threated the safety of citizens in Newport News, but led to a loss of life. ATF and our law enforcement partners remain committed to stopping violent crime and bringing criminals to justice.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Washington Field Division; and Steve R. Drew, Chief of Newport News Police; made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Rebecca Beach Smith. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lisa R. McKeel and Howard J. Zlotnick prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:19-cr-031.
Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Firearms PossessionRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Prince William County man pleaded guilty yesterday to possession of a firearm after being convicted of a felony.
According to court documents, Michael Tutwiler, 38, was found in possession of numerous firearms and several firearm silencers after a conviction. ATF was conducting an investigation into the illegal importation of firearm silencers, and through that investigation determined that Tutwiler had likely received firearm silencers shipped from China through the mail. Based on their investigation, agents of the ATF and HSI executed a federal search warrant at Tutwiler’s residence in October 2019. They found several firearm silencers, over 30 firearms, and assorted ammunition at various places in Tutwiler’s home and garage.
Tutwiler pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a felon, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison when sentenced on March 26. 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.
This case is 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. Click here for more information about Project Guardian.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Washington Field Division; and Raymond Villanueva, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Roderick C. Young accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Duffey is prosecuting the case.
The Defense Criminal Investigative Service provided significant assistance with this investigation.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:18-cr-163.
Madison Man Sentenced to 2 Years for Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. - Scott C. Blader, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Travis Hicks, 24, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to two years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Hicks pleaded guilty to this charge on October 9, 2019.
In 2013, Hicks was convicted of the felony crime of assault with a dangerous weapon. On October 4, 2018, Hicks was in Jackson, Michigan, with a friend and was shot at during a drive-by shooting. The friend returned fire and both fled the scene. Police arrested Hicks that day and found ammunition in his vehicle. Hicks was charged in state court in Michigan with being a felon in possession of ammunition and was released after posting bond on December 10, 2018. Hicks failed to appear at a hearing in the case on January 15, 2019, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
On March 5, 2019, Hicks was arrested on the fugitive warrant in a Madison hotel room. In that room, law enforcement found a plastic box for a Glock 19 9mm pistol. A search warrant was executed on Hicks’ cell phone, and officers found videos of him holding a Maadi 7.62 caliber AK-47 type rifle and a Glock pistol. The investigation revealed that on January 22, 2019, while in Madison, Hicks possessed the Maadi rifle which he traded for a Glock 19 9mm pistol.
At sentencing, Judge Peterson said that when dealing with gun crimes, protection of the public is always the first concern. Judge Peterson noted that Hicks associates with people who use firearms and expressed concern that an innocent bystander could be shot in an exchange of gunfire. Because of that, Judge Peterson found that Hicks posed a risk to the public.
The charge against Hicks was the result of an investigation conducted by the Madison Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of the case has been handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan.
This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition, and violent crimes and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.
Luzerne County Man Pleads Guilty to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
WILKES-BARRE - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jesse Carey, age 33, formerly of Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County, entered guilty pleas on January 6, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to two counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin stemming from separate incidents in Monroe and Luzerne Counties.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Carey was indicted in 2018 being in possession of approximately forty-seven grams of cocaine and twenty-nine individual packets of heroin for further distribution, a scale, and $9,777 in U.S. Currency on August 5, 2017, at the Mount Airy Casino in Monroe County.
On January 6, 2020, Carey entered a plea of guilty before Judge Mannion for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin stemming from this incident. Carey was also charged with drug trafficking after a separate incident on January 12, 2017, in Plymouth Borough, Luzerne County, in which Carey was arrested and found in possession of fourteen grams of cocaine and approximately eighty individual doses of heroin for further distribution, $2,086 in U.S. currency, scales and drug packaging materials. Carey previously entered a plea of guilty on December 19, 2019, before Judge Mannion, to this charge.
The cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, and the Plymouth Borough Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara prosecuted the cases.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department 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 enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce crime.
This case was also brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Lower Brule Man Sentenced on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault of Spouse by Strangulation was sentenced on January 2, 2020, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.
Boyer Thomas LaForge, Jr., age 31, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
LaForge was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 9, 2019. He pled guilty on September 23, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on February 4, 2019, wherein LaForge and his intimate partner were drinking and LaForge accused her of stealing money from him. LaForge continually asked the victim where his money was, and then ultimately grabbed the victim by the throat and began to strangle her.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
LaForge was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Local man sentenced for attempting to entice a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activityRead the Press Release
BROWNSVILLE, Texas - A 29-year old McAllen man has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Dassahed Marines pleaded guilty Oct. 16, 2019.
Today, U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera Jr. ordered him to serve 120 months in federal prison. Marines will also serve 20 years on supervised released following completion of his prison term, during which he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He must also register as a sex offender.
Between Dec. 6-7, 2018, Marines utilized a cell phone as well as the social media app called Whisper and KIK messaging app to attempt to persuade and entice a 13-year-old girl to engage in unlawful sexual activity. He made initial contact through Whisper, but continued messaging the minor explicit messages via KIK. In those conversations, he attempted to persuade the minor to meet at a local park for a sexual encounter. Marines was arrested once he arrived at the location.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations - Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Task Force conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ana C. Cano and Jose Esquivel Jr. prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Litchfield Woman Sentenced to Prison for Embezzling from Non-ProfitRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: A Litchfield woman was sentenced today in federal court in Portland for committing wire fraud affecting a financial institution, U.S. Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced.
U.S. District Court Judge D. Brock Hornby sentenced Jessica Childs, 39, to 13 months in prison and five years of supervised release. Childs pleaded guilty on April 23, 2019.
According to court records, Childs was the Finance Director of Women Unlimited (WU), a non-profit organization located in Augusta. As the Finance Director, Childs had access to the company’s bank accounts, credit cards and accounting system. Beginning in about February 2010, and continuing until September 2015, Childs used WU’s credit card to make personal purchases, frequently over the internet. She also obtained cash advances with the card and used the cash for personal purchases. She then used WU funds to pay the charges she had fraudulently incurred on the company card without WU’s knowledge or authorization.
In imposing sentence, Judge Hornby described Childs’s conduct as inexcusable, flagrant and prolonged. He also noted that her crime had an enormous impact, both directly on WU and its employees and indirectly on the individuals WU had served.
The U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General; and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case.
Lima man pleads guilty to sex trafficking minor girlRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A registered sex offender pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to crimes related to sex trafficking a 14-year-old girl. He faces at least 27 years and up to 42 years in prison under terms of his plea agreement.
Nicholas Salvadore Cochran, 28, of Lima, Ohio, pleaded guilty to one count of sex trafficking a minor, and one count of committing a sex offense against a minor as a registered as a sex offender.
Cochran was arrested on Aug. 9 as part of Operation Independence Day – a nationwide FBI-led operation to identify and arrest sex traffickers and recover child victims. He has been in custody since his arrest. A federal grand jury indicted him on September 6, 2019.
According to court documents, police began searching for a 14-year-old girl reported missing from Celina, Ohio in July 2019. Family members believed her to be in the Dublin, Ohio area with a man named “Nick.” Local law enforcement and the FBI began investigating information known about her to help locate the missing girl. The investigation included examination of ads posted on websites used for advertising prostitution.
Investigation of the advertisements revealed that between July 9 and July 14, Cochran posted approximately 25 ads for the Lima-Findlay, Dayton and Columbus areas. He posted ads for sex with the child victim daily, and those ads contained nude photographs of the minor.
Allen County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Cochran on a traffic stop in Lima, Ohio on an outstanding failure to appear warrant and seized Cochran’s phone. The victim called her parents from a hotel in Lima and was recovered.
Cochran had been convicted of two counts of sexual battery and one count of attempted sexual battery in Henry County, Ohio in 2009.
The plea agreement requires Cochran to pay full restitution to the victim and others impacted by the crimes, remain under court supervision for the rest of his life, pay a fine determined by the court and pay special assessments of $10,200 if the court finds that he is not indigent. Judge Michael H. Watson will review the plea and set a date for sentencing.
David M. DeVillers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Chris Hoffman, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost; Celina Police Chief Thomas Wale; Allen County Sheriff Matthew B. Treglia; Westerville Police Chief Charles Chandler and other members of the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force announced the plea entered before U.S. Magistrate Judge Norah McCann King. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather A. Hill and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Rausch, Legal Director of Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s Human Trafficking Initiative represented the United States in this case.
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Let's Show Our Appreciation for These Courageous Public ServantsRead the Press Release
Law enforcement officers protect and serve our community 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year. The least we can do is take one of those days to express our appreciation for their sacrifice.
National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day will be observed on Thursday, Jan. 9. I hope you will join me in speaking up to support the courageous men and women who devote themselves to public service. They have voluntarily chosen a challenging profession with many significant demands, both for themselves and their families. They willingly put themselves at risk in the normal course of their duties and make daily sacrifices on our behalf.
Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) has designated this day since 2015 to positively support the 900,000 law enforcement officers in America. Since then, a number of organizations have joined the cause, including the FBI National Academy Associates, the Fraternal Order of Police, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Officer Down Memorial Page, Law Enforcement United, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, the International Conference of Police Chaplains, the National Troopers Coalition, and many others.
Here are a few ways that each of us can show our appreciation to law enforcement officers during Law Enforcement Appreciation Day:
• Change your profile picture on social media to the image provided at www.facebook.com/nationalcops.
• Wear blue clothing in support of law enforcement.
• Send a card of support to your local police department or state agency.
• Share a story about a positive law enforcement experience on social media.
• Ask children to write letters in support of law enforcement.
• Participate in Project Blue Light by proudly displaying a blue light in support of law enforcement.
• Participate in a Blue Blood Drive by giving blood to the Sleeves Up campaign: https://sleevesup.redcrossblood.org/campaign/sleevesup-for-c-o-p-s/Most importantly, thank a police officer when you see them.
Tim Garrison is the United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri
Knox County Man Convicted of Methamphetamine Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
LONDON, Ky. – Charles W. Warfield, 51, of Artemis, Kentucky, was convicted by a federal jury on Tuesday, for his role in a methamphetamine conspiracy and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The proof at trial established that Warfield purchased and distributed methamphetamine in Laurel and Knox Counties. Warfield and a co-conspirator traveled to Louisville and brought back 14 ounces of methamphetamine for distribution. Social media records and witness testimony also established that Warfield attempted to trade a .45 caliber handgun for methamphetamine. At the time Warfield possessed the firearm, he was a convicted felon.
Co-defendants Jonathan Harper, Derwin Julien, Lawrence Collinsworth, Cortez Evans, Tasha Wernicke, Jordan Britt, Scott Hensley, Amy Mosley, Lindsey Rose, Darryl Moore, Thorold Johnson, Bobby Hamilton, Rickie Eubanks, Eddie Hoskins, Justin Collins, and Ralph Jones have each pled guilty to their roles in the methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy.
Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Tommy Estevan, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; Sheriff Mike Smith, Knox County Sheriff’s Office; and Chief Col. Rusty Hedrick, Corbin Police Department, jointly announced the convictions.
The investigation was conducted by the ATF, Knox County Sheriff’s Office, and the Corbin Police Department. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenna E. Reed.
Warfield is scheduled to appear for sentencing on April 24, 2020, in London. Warfield faces up to 40 years in prison and a $5 million fine on the methamphetamine conviction. He also faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the firearm conviction. However, the Court must consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the applicable federal sentencing statutes before imposing its sentence.
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Kansas Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking While on Parole for Murder ConvictionsRead the Press Release
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – An Olathe, Kansas, man who was on parole after spending 38 years in prison for murdering two people in a bar robbery, one of whom was an off-duty police officer, pleaded guilty to drug trafficking in federal court today.
Robert Lucious Toney, 67, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Willie J. Epps, Jr. to one count of distributing methamphetamine, one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, and one count of crossing state lines in aid of a racketeering enterprise (the unlawful business of distributing illegal drugs).
On Dec. 14, 2018, Toney met an undercover law enforcement officer at a restaurant in Columbia, Missouri. Toney sold the undercover officer two ounces of methamphetamine for $1,400.
Toney met the undercover officer again on Jan. 18, 2019, at a restaurant in Kingdom City, Missouri. Toney was arrested in the parking lot when he got out of his car. Officers searched the car, and under the gas tank lid found four plastic bags that contained methamphetamine and a bag that contained two grams of heroin and one gram of cocaine, which Toney was planning to sell to the undercover officer for $3,200.
At the time of these offenses, Toney was on state parole after being sentenced to two consecutive life terms plus 20 years in prison for the 1973 conviction of murdering an off-duty police officer and another customer during a bar robbery and assaulting two more customers. After 38 years of incarceration, Toney was released on parole in 2010.
Under federal statutes, Toney is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron M. Jolly. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Judge Sentences Getaway Driver to 4 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court for aiding and abetting armed bank robbery and attempted armed bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer sentenced Nicole Wallace, 35, to 48 months for her crime, and ordered that she pay restitution for the money she helped steal from the bank.
According to information presented to the court, in October 2018, Wallace acted as the getaway driver for two armed bank robberies (the October 17 robbery of Huntington Bank in Pittsburgh and the October 29 robbery of the First National Bank in Pittsburgh) and one attempted armed bank robbery (at the First National Bank in Pittsburgh on October 26) in the Western District of Pennsylvania. In one of those incidents, a security guard was assaulted, drew his weapon, and there was an armed stand-off with Wallace’s co-conspirator.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that the sentence was warranted based on the seriousness of the offenses and the danger they posed to the community.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wallace.
Jefferson Dispatcher Sentenced for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that NICOLE SERUNTINE, age 35, an employee of Company A.M.M., was sentenced January 7, 2020 after pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information charging her with wire fraud.
According to the Bill of Information, from around June 2010 through February 2017, NICOLE SERUNTINE worked as a secretary and dispatcher at Company A.M.M., located in Jefferson, Louisiana. Around October 2014 through February 17, 2017, SERUNTINE devised a scheme to defraud Company A.M.M. out of more than $500,000 by using her role as administrative assistant to order a fuel card that she was not entitled to use, and unlawfully used it for her own personal expenses, including food, gas, and cash advances.
NICOLE SERUNTINE was sentenced to 5 years probation and to pay restitution in the amount of $100 a month.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharan E. Lieberman is in charge of the prosecution.
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Jefferson County man admits to role in drug distribution operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Allen Craig, of Ranson, West Virginia, has admitted to his role in a cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl drug distribution operation, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Craig, age 57, pled guilty to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Hydrochloride, and Cocaine Base.” Craig admitted to working with a group of people to the drugs from March 2018 to January 2019 in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties and elsewhere.
Craig faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney C. Lydia Lehman, also with the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and Assistant U.S Attorney Timothy D. Helman, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation; the West Virginia State Police; the Eastern Panhandle Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the Martinsburg Police Department, the Charles Town Police Department, and the Ranson Police Department investigated.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Iowa Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and MarijuanaRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Matthew Podgorski, 23, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison by United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana. There is no parole in the federal system. In addition to his prison term, he will serve four years of supervised release following his release from prison.
On July 18, 2018, officers observed Podgorski driving a vehicle eastbound on I-80 in Omaha, traveling approximately 60 mph in a 50 mph construction zone. Officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. Upon approaching the vehicle, officers immediately smelled marijuana coming from the vehicle. Officers searched the vehicle and recovered marijuana and two kilograms of cocaine.
This case was investigated by Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
Indianapolis Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Seven Separate Auto Parts Store RobberiesRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS – United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced today, Korrtel Filzen, 30, Indianapolis, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young, in the federal courthouse in Indianapolis. Filzen was previously indicted and pleaded guilty to charges of robbery and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime at today’s change of plea and sentencing hearing.
"Reducing gun violence remains the top priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office," said Minkler. "Removing a violent individual like Filzen from our city for 30 years makes us all safer."
From December 2017 through January 6, 2018, Filzen was involved in seven separate auto part store armed robberies. Filzen was on parole for felony burglary at the time of the robberies. Filzen targeted AutoZone and O’Reilly’s Auto Parts stores located primarily on the southwest and northwest sides of Indianapolis. Filzen also robbed an AutoZone store located in Carmel, Ind. During the robberies, Filzen often dressed in a dark colored hoodie-style sweatshirt, threatening violence and terrorizing victims, by brandishing a pistol and holding store employees at gunpoint, including placing a pistol in one of the victim’s faces in order to force them to comply with his demands. Another robber purposely struck a victim in the face with a pistol during a robbery. Filzen and the other robbers demanded money from the store registers, cash drop-boxes, and often moved employees to store safe locations and directed employees to remove the money from the safes.
As part of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) investigation into the armed robberies, IMPD seized internal surveillance video recorded by the store’s security cameras. Due to the clarity of the video and the visibility of Filzen’s face from one of AutoZone’s security cameras, IMPD issued a "Be On the Look-Out" (BOLO) flier of Filzen. Filzen was identified as one of the robbers from the BOLO that was posted to a Crime Stoppers website. A victim from one of the robberies also identified Filzen from a photo array. Filzen was arrested on January 9, 2018.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and the Carmel Police Department.
"This sentence sends a clear message that violent individuals such as Mr. Filzen, who threatened people simply doing their jobs and instilled fear in the community, will be held accountable for their actions," said Special Agent in Charge Grant Mendenhall, FBI Indianapolis. "The FBI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to ensuring residents feel safe in their homes, places of work, and in their communities."
"The arrest and prosecution of Mr. Filzen shows the power and importance of the collaborative efforts of law enforcement on the local, state, and federal levels," said Carmel Police Chief Jim Barlow. "Crime knows no jurisdictional boundaries and law enforcement must work together as a team. The success of this case highlights the cooperation and hard work of our officers, detectives, and agents. We are pleased that Central Indiana will be safer while Mr. Filzen is in prison."
According to Assistant United States Attorney Peter A. Blackett, who prosecuted this case for the government, Filzen must serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
In October 2017, United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced a Strategic Plan designed to shape and strengthen the District’s response to its most significant public safety challenges. This prosecution demonstrates the office’s firm commitment to prosecuting those who commit violent crimes involving firearms. See United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana Strategic Plan Section 2.3.
Hunters Point Man Sentenced to 21 Years in Prison for Kidnapping and AssaultRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – Last week, DaNeil Francis Wilson, II, 33, of Hunters Point, Arizona, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge G. Murray Snow to 252 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. During a jury trial in April 2019, Wilson pleaded guilty to five counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, two counts of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, two counts of Kidnapping, and one count of Assault by Strangling or Suffocating.
On April 4 and 5, 2018, over the course of approximately 12 hours, Wilson held two victims at his house overnight and extensively beat and assaulted them, causing serious bodily injury. The incident occurred at the residence he shared with one of the victims on the Navajo Indian reservation. Wilson and the victims are enrolled members of the Navajo Nation.
“Wilson tortured the victims over the course of hours, and deserves every day of the long prison sentence he received,” said Michael Bailey, United States Attorney for the District of Arizona. “No one should be forced to suffer like these victims did, which is why prosecuting and preventing such crimes in Indian Country is a vital part of the mission of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
“The victims in this case suffered tremendous physical and psychological torment. Wilson’s acceptance of responsibility came only after one of the victims bravely took the witness stand to recount the ordeal. The investigation of Wilson, and his 21-year sentence, stand as a testament to the collaboration and dedication of the FBI, Navajo Nation Criminal Investigators, and the United States Attorney’s Office to bring justice to victims of violent crimes in Indian County.”
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety. The prosecution was handled by Christina Covault and Kiyoko Patterson, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
Houston Man Sentenced to 84 Months in Federal Prison for Leading Interstate Marijuana Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—Jody Tremayne Wafer, 30, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release for organizing and leading a conspiracy to traffic marijuana grown in Portland to Texas.
According to court documents, drug proceeds, in the form of bulk U.S. currency, were returned to Oregon via U.S. mail and passenger luggage on commercial airlines. As part of this investigation, federal authorities have seized approximately 11,000 marijuana plants, 546 pounds of processed marijuana, more than $2.8 million in cash, 51 firearms, 26 vehicles, trailers, pieces of heavy equipment, a yacht, and three houses used as marijuana grow sites, all since August 2017.
On October 2, 2019, Wafer pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiring to manufacture, possess with intent to distribute, and distribute marijuana, maintaining drug-involved premises and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
During sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge Robert E. Jones ordered Wafer to forfeit any criminally-derived proceeds and property used to facilitate his crimes.
Co-defendants Trent Lamar Knight, 31, and Brittany Lesanta Kizzee, 29, also of Houston; Paul Eugene Thomas, 39, and Raleigh Dragon Lau, 33, both of Portland; and Cole William Griffiths, 31, of Hood River, Oregon have all pleaded guilty on related charges. Knight and Kizzee with be sentenced on January 22, 2020 and February 6, 2020, respectively; Lau and Thomas will be sentenced on February 19 and 13, 2020, respectively; and Griffiths will be sentenced on March 5, 2020.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI. It was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
This case was brought as part of the Justice Department’s Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, the centerpiece of the department’s strategy for reducing the availability of drugs in the U.S. OCDETF was established in 1982 to mount a comprehensive attack on drug trafficking by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in coordination with state and local law enforcement.
Hartford Man Who Threatened Tow Truck Operator with Gun Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LUIS QUINTANA, 28, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 27 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for threatening a tow truck operator with a gun.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 29, 2018, Quintana pointed a firearm at a tow truck operator who had started the process of towing Quintana’s car, which had been improperly parked in a private lot on Garden Street in Hartford. After the tow truck operator removed the car from the tow hitch and Quintana walked away, the victim’s partner called police. Officers responded to the scene, apprehended Quintana who was nearby, and retrieved a loaded Ruger P95 9mm millimeter handgun that Quintana had discarded as police arrived.
Quintana’s criminal history includes felony convictions for possession of narcotics with intent to sell, and carrying a pistol without a permit.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Quintana has been detained since his federal arrest on October 24, 2018. On August 16, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
This investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Connecticut Violent Crime Task Force and the Hartford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Clark and Michael Gustafson.
This prosecution has been brought through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Harrisonburg Man Sentenced for Distributing Fatal Mixture of Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
Harrisonburg, VIRGINIA – Richard Mansfield, a Harrisonburg man who was previously convicted of distributing a fatal mixture of heroin and fentanyl, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Harrisonburg to nine years in prison, United States Attorney Thomas T. Cullen announced.
Mansfield, 39, pleaded guilty in September 2018 to one count of distributing a mixture and substance containing heroin and fentanyl.
According to evidence presented to the court by Assistant United States Attorney Jeb Terrien, on December 12, 2017, Mansfield sold a mixture of heroin and fentanyl to Matthew Jason Murphy. The following day, December 13, 2017, Murphy was found deceased following a drug overdose. A medical examination and toxicology analysis determined that Murphy died from fentanyl and heroin intoxication.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Virginia State Police, and Harrisonburg Police Department, with the assistance of Rockingham County Commonwealth’s Attorney Marsha L. Garst. Assistant United States Attorney Jeb Terrien prosecuted the case for the United States.
Grand Jury Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. -- A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Minocqua Man Charged with Possessing Child Pornography
Matthew K. Kummer, 50, Minocqua, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing child pornography. The indictment alleges that on October 27, 2019, he possessed a USB storage device containing visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The indictment further alleges that at least one of the depictions involved a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.
If convicted, Kummer faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and a maximum of 20 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and Minocqua and Woodruff Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman is handling the prosecution.
Eau Claire Man Charged with Transporting Child Pornography
Jay A. Liestman, 48, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is charged with transporting and aiding and abetting the transportation of child pornography. The indictment alleges that he used Kik messenger to send a link that led to images and videos of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
If convicted, Liestman faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 20 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Office, and Eau Claire Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman is handling the prosecution.
The indictments charging Kummer and Liestman have been brought as a part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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.justice.gov/psc.
Milwaukee Man Charged with Distributing Heroin
Michael Carroll, 49, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is charged in a six-count indictment with crimes involving the possession and distribution of heroin. The indictment alleges that from September to November 2019, he conspired with others known and unknown to the grand jury to distribute heroin and to possess 100 grams or more of heroin with intent to distribute. The indictment also alleges that he distributed heroin on four occasions in September, October, and November 2019, and that on November 19, 2019, he possessed heroin with intent to distribute.
If convicted, Carroll faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the conspiracy charge. The other five charges in the indictment each have a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Madison Police Department, Dane County Narcotics Task Force, Dane County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and UW-Madison Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper is handling the prosecution.
Grand Bay Insurance Agent Receives 78 Month Sentence for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Richard W. Moore of the Southern District of Alabama announced that on January 6, 2020, Thomas “Tommy” Edward Burns of Grand Bay, Alabama was sentenced to 78 months imprisonment and restitution in the amount of $121,208.59 for wire fraud before United States District Judge Jeffery U. Beaverstock.
According to court documents filed in connection with his guilty plea on August 12, 2019, Thomas Edward Burns, who was the sole owner of the Tommy Burns Agency, LLC, an insurance agency located in Grand Bay, Alabama, sold insurance policies to be issued by various insurance carriers. Burns would provide potential customers a premium quote for an insurance policy. Once the customer paid the premium, Burns would have the insurance carrier issue the insurance policy or a 30-day binder. Burns took the insurance premiums from customers, but failed to pass along the premiums to the insurance carriers, thereby causing the carriers to cancel many of the policies for nonpayment and leaving individuals and their properties uninsured.
At the sentencing hearing, a Special Agent from the Federal Bureau of Investigation testified that at least 51 victims had been identified. Five victims appeared at the sentencing hearing to testify about the impact of having their premiums stolen and their properties left uninsured.
As part of the plea agreement entered into by Burns, the United States also required Burns to immediately surrender all professional licenses, including but not limited to all insurance and brokerage license(s), and to not seek reinstatement of those licenses.
Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Alabama Insurance Commission, officers of the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office and the Mobile County District Attorney’s Office assisted in the investigation of this case. It was prosecuted in the United States Attorney’s Office by Assistant United States Attorney Jamie A. Wilson.
Four Cuban Nationals Plead Guilty to Gas Pump Skimming SchemeRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – Four Cuban men from Florida have pleaded guilty to charges that included conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.
According to court documents, Jorge Bello Fuentes, 30, Guillermo Bello Fuentes, 33, Yariel Monsibaez Ruiz, 28, and Pedro Emilio Duran, 40, among others, placed skimming devices on gas pumps located in the Eastern District of Virginia. The skimming devices were capable of recording the credit cards, bank card numbers, and PINs of the customers that used their cards at gas pumps. In April and May 2018, using the stolen card information, the codefendants traveled between various locations like Harris Teeter stores to withdraw money from the victims’ bank accounts and purchase prepaid debit cards.
Jorge Bello Fuentes pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft and faces a mandatory minimum of two years and a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison when sentenced on April 23. Co-defendant Guillermo Bello Fuentes pleaded guilty on January 7 to the same charges and is scheduled for sentencing on April 28. Co-defendant Yariel Monsibaez Ruiz pleaded guilty on January 7 to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and is scheduled for sentencing on April 28. Co-defendant Pedro Emilio Duran pleaded guilty on Dec. 13, 2019, to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and is scheduled for sentencing on March 18. 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.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Martin Culbreth, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; and David L. Doughty, Jr., Northampton County Sheriff, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Raymond A. Jackson accepted the pleas. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth M. Yusi and Kevin P. Hudson are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:19-cr-109.
Founder and President of Online Gaming Company Pleads Guilty to Securities and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that ROBERT ALEXANDER pled guilty today to securities fraud and wire fraud in connection to his participation in a scheme to defraud investors by soliciting investments in his online gaming company (the “Company”) through false representations, and his misappropriation of investor funds for his own personal use. ALEXANDER pled guilty before United States District Judge Andrew L. Carter Jr.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Robert Alexander, president of an online gaming company, induced investors through false statements about the health of his company and his own background. Alexander betrayed his investors and spent their funds to support his lifestyle, including gambling excursions to multiple casinos, and a luxury car for one of his family members. Robert Alexander now faces serious time in prison for gaming his investors.”
According to the Indictment and statements made in open court:
Beginning in at least 2013 and continuing through in or about 2017, ALEXANDER engaged in a scheme to defraud investors in the Company. Specifically, ALEXANDER solicited and maintained investments in the Company through numerous false representations, including concerning his own professional background, the Company’s financial condition, expected returns on investment, and through false assurances to investors that their investments would be used solely for the Company’s business purposes.
Also in furtherance of his scheme and contrary to representations made to investors, ALEXANDER used more than approximately $1.3 million of the funds he obtained from investors on his own personal expenses instead of for the Company’s business purposes. For example, ALEXANDER used investor funds to make payments toward his personal credit cards, to fund his gambling excursions to multiple casinos, to make rental payments for his personal residence, and to make car payments for a luxury car purchased for one of ALEXANDER’s family members.
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ALEXANDER, 49, of Las Vegas, Nevada, pled guilty to one count of securities fraud and one count of wire fraud. The securities fraud count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $5 million or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The wire fraud count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He also thanked the Securities and Exchange Commission for its cooperation and assistance in this investigation.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elisha J. Kobre and Margaret Graham are in charge of the prosecution.
Former official to serve prison time for child porn convictionsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 65-year-old resident of Seabrook has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of receipt and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Ocal John Miller is a former law enforcement officer, having served as chief of police in Martinsville, West Virginia; and city councilman and mayor pro tem for Seabrook. He pleaded guilty Oct. 3, 2019.
Today, U.S. District Judge Alfred Bennett ordered Miller to serve 120 months on each count to run concurrently. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that it should send a message to society. Judge Bennett further commented that unfortunately Miller is not the first nor will he be the last to stand before him having committed child pornography-related offenses. The court imposed a $50,000 fine as well as a $10,000 special assessment per the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. Miller will also be required to pay restitution in an amount to be determined later and will serve 10 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. He must also register as a sex offender.
Miller came to the attention of law enforcement in June 2016 when the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) sent multiple cybertips to the Houston Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
The investigation revealed Miller was using Skype to receive and distribute child pornography images to others via the internet. Miller also used Dropbox and Kik Messenger to obtain and store child pornography. Based on information gathered during the investigation, authorities executed a federal search warrant for Miller’s home in Seabrook March 30, 2017. At that time, they seized a computer, iPhone and several digital storage devices. Forensic examination resulted in the discovery of more than 1,300 images and 1,000 videos containing child pornography.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and police departments in Webster and Pearland conducted the investigation as part of the Houston Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sherri L. Zack is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood(PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Former Tribal Police Officer Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Spokane – William D. Hyslop, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced Lorenzo Elias Mendez, age 39, a former Yakama Nation police officer, was sentenced after a jury found him guilty of attempted production of child pornography, on August 16, 2019. United States District Judge Salvador Mendoza, Jr. sentenced Mendez to a 20-year term of imprisonment, to be followed by a 20-year term of court supervision after he is released from federal prison.
According to information disclosed during court proceedings, from January to June 2018, Mendez surreptitiously videotaped a minor undressing via a hidden “spy camera.” The images taken from the camera were received via Wi-Fi signal on Mendez’s phone. Mendez then imported the images into other applications where they were edited and saved. Evidence of over 500 such surreptitiously taken images was presented by the United States at trial.
At sentencing Judge Mendoza noted Mendez, a tribal police officer at the time the crime was committed, abused the trust not only of his victim, but of the community as well in committing the crime. Judge Mendoza also noted he had reviewed all information provided by Mendez and at no point had he expressed any empathy toward the victim of his crime. Judge Mendoza told Mendez he hoped he had heard the victim when she told the Court Mendez’s crime would haunt her for the rest of her life.
United States Attorney Hyslop said, “Prosecuting those who would attempt to produce pornographic images of a vulnerable minor is a priority of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington. This Office, together with its federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement partners, is dedicated to prosecuting aggressively these cases and seeking appropriate punishment for child pornography crimes.”
This case was pursued as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the United States Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. The Project Safe Childhood Initiative (“PSC”) has five major components:
· Integrated federal, state, and local efforts to investigate and prosecute child exploitation cases, and to identify and rescue children;
· Participation of PSC partners in coordinated national initiatives;
· Increased federal enforcement in child pornography and enticement cases;
· Training of federal, state, and local law enforcement agents; and
· Community awareness and educational programs.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
This case was investigated by the Yakima Resident Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Moxee Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Alison L. Gregoire and Thomas J. Hanlon, Assistant United States Attorneys for the Eastern District of Washington.
Former Supervisory Correctional Officer Sentenced to 24 Months in Federal Prison for Civil Rights ViolationRead the Press Release
A former Supervisory Correctional Officer at the Federal Correctional Complex (FCC) in Beaumont, Texas, was sentenced today in federal court for aiding and abetting the assault of an inmate.
Khristal Ford, 33, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone to 24 months in federal prison followed by one year of supervised release. Ford previously pleaded guilty on May 29, 2019, to one count of aiding and abetting another correctional officer in the assault of an inmate housed at the facility.
According to plea documents and information presented in court, on June 8, 2017, while on duty at the FCC, Ford opened the door of a secured medical observation cell after A.A., an inmate, threw a tray at the locked door. Ford then told another correctional officer to “take care of it” and watched as the officer entered the cell and punched A.A. in the head three times without justification. Following this assault, Ford submitted written reports that omitted any reference to the assault in an effort to cover up the incident and make it appear justified.
“The Department of Justice will not tolerate this abuse of authority,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Civil Rights Division will continue to prosecute those who will assault inmates under their supervision.”
“The work of prison guards is obviously very difficult, but they cannot resort to unprovoked violence,” said United States Attorney Joseph Brown for the Eastern District of Texas. “They are expected to remain professional, and if they assault inmates, they will be arrested and prosecuted.”
“The public has a right to expect that Correctional Officers will keep federal prisons safe and secure and will perform the duties of their jobs with integrity. Ford did the exact opposite when she aided in the assault and civil rights violations of an inmate. She will rightly serve time for this offense,” said Robert A. Bourbon, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Dallas Field Office.
This case was investigated by the Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General, and was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Katherine G. DeVar of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Anderson of the Eastern District of Texas.
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.
Former Owner of Elizabeth Restaurant Admits Evading TaxesRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – The former owner of a restaurant in Elizabeth, New Jersey, today admitted evading taxes on over $844,000 in income from his restaurant business, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Omar Rodriguez, 49, of Parlin, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp in Trenton federal court to one count of an information charging him with tax evasion for 2015 through 2017.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Rodriguez owned Mojito LLC, d/b/a Mojito Lounge and Restaurant (Mojito’s), a restaurant that served Cuban cuisine. Mojito’s generated a substantial amount of gross cash receipts and Rodriguez admitted that he skimmed a substantial portion of this cash for his personal use, which he did not report as income, and to pay Mojito’s employees and suppliers in cash. Between 2015 and 2017, Rodriguez received over $844,000 in income from Mojito’s that he failed to report to the IRS. Rodriguez caused Mojito’s to fail to report over $483,000 in cash payroll and to pay certain employment taxes. His conduct resulted in a $193,733 tax loss to the IRS for tax years 2015 through 2017.
The tax evasion charge to which Rodriguez pleaded guilty carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and is punishable by a potential $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for April 15, 2020.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge John R. Tafur, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bernard J. Cooney of the of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Health Care Fraud Unit in Newark.
Former Duquesne Man Served as a Drug Runner for the SCO GangRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA- A former resident of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge related to drug trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Keenan Williams, 21, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute a quantity of heroin at Count One of the Indictment, before United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force conducted a long-term investigation of drug trafficking occurring in and around the Braddock section of Pittsburgh. Williams and other individuals, were identified as members or associates of a neighborhood based street gang, self-titled "SCO", which illegally distributed controlled substances in the Greater Pittsburgh region. In January of 2019, investigators obtained authorization to conduct a federal wire investigation, which continued through May of 2019. Intercepted communications over the phone of Williams’ co-defendant and brother, Richard Coto-Wheat, confirmed that Williams served as a drug runner for the conspiracy, distributing controlled substances in the North Versailles and Braddock neighborhoods.
Judge Schwab scheduled sentencing for May 20, 2020, at 10:00 AM. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 30 years in prison, a fine of not more than $2,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Williams remains in custody pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office Bureau of Narcotics, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Other assisting agencies include the Monroeville Police Department, Penn Hills Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, and Allegheny County Adult Probation.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Former Correctional Officer Pleads Guilty to Providing the FBI with False Information About the In-Custody Death of a WomanRead the Press Release
Debra Becnel, a former correctional officer, pleaded guilty to making false statements in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001, in connection with the federal investigation into the death of Nimali Henry, an inmate at the St. Bernard Parish Prison. Ms. Henry died in custody on April 1, 2014, after she failed to receive medical treatment for her serious medical needs during her ten-day incarceration.
In pleading guilty, defendant Becnel admitted that Ms. Henry and other inmates told her, as well as other correctional officers, that Ms. Henry was ill, needed medical treatment, and might die if she did not get her medical treatment. Becnel further admitted that, when FBI agents questioned her about Ms. Henry’s death, she falsely stated that neither Henry nor the inmates talked to her about Ms. Henry’s medical needs.
“When officers make false statements to federal authorities, they hamper the ability of the Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute civil rights violations,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will continue to defend the civil rights of all citizens.”
“Debra Becnel lied to the FBI about what she knew about Nimali Henry’s death,” stated U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “The public must be able to trust that correctional officers are fulfilling their duties honestly. Public officials who are not truthful during the course of federal investigations must face the consequences of their actions.”
“Debra Becnel deliberately deceived FBI agents during a civil rights investigation,” said Bryan A. Vorndran FBI New Orleans Field Office Special Agent in Charge. “Placed in a position of trust, law enforcement and correctional officers are held to a higher standard. The FBI New Orleans Field Office will continue to prioritize the investigation of federal Civil Rights violations and any other violations of federal law within our correctional facilities.”
Sentencing is scheduled for April 22, 2020, before the Honorable Ivan L.R. Lemelle. Becnel faces a maximum sentence of five years of imprisonment.
In a related case, former Corporal Timothy Williams pleaded guilty on Sept. 18, 2018, to one count of Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law, 18 U.S.C. § 242. In pleading guilty, Williams admitted that he willfully disregarded a substantial risk of serious harm to Ms. Henry’s health and safety by failing to take reasonable measures to address her medical conditions. When Williams is sentenced, he faces a maximum penalty up to life imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted jointly by Trial Attorney Christine M. Siscaretti of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant United States Attorneys Chandra Menon and Tracey N. Knight of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
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.
Former Correctional Officer Pleads Guilty to Providing the FBI with False Information about the In-Custody Death of a WomanRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Debra Becnel, a former correctional officer, pleaded guilty on January 7, 2020 to making false statements in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001, in connection with the federal investigation into the death of Nimali Henry, an inmate at the St. Bernard Parish Prison. Ms. Henry died in custody on April 1, 2014, after she failed to receive medical treatment for her serious medical needs during her ten-day incarceration.
In pleading guilty, defendant Becnel admitted that Ms. Henry and other inmates told her, as well as other correctional officers, that Ms. Henry was ill, needed medical treatment, and might die if she did not get her medical treatment. Becnel further admitted that, when FBI agents questioned her about Ms. Henry’s death, she falsely stated that neither Henry nor the inmates talked to her about Ms. Henry’s medical needs.
“When officers make false statements to federal authorities, they hamper the ability of the Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute civil rights violations,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will continue to defend the civil rights of all citizens.”
“Debra Becnel lied to the FBI about what she knew about Nimali Henry’s death,” stated U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “The public must be able to trust that correctional officers are fulfilling their duties honestly. Public officials who are not truthful during the course of federal investigations must face the consequences of their actions.”
“Debra Becnel deliberately deceived FBI agents during a civil rights investigation,” said Bryan A. Vorndran FBI New Orleans Field Office Special Agent in Charge. “Placed in a position of trust, law enforcement and correctional officers are held to a higher standard. The FBI New Orleans Field Office will continue to prioritize the investigation of federal Civil Rights violations and any other violations of federal law within our correctional facilities.”
Sentencing is scheduled for April 22, 2020, before the Honorable Ivan L.R. Lemelle. Becnel faces a maximum sentence of five years of imprisonment.
In a related case, former Corporal Timothy Williams pleaded guilty on Sept. 18, 2018, to one count of Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law, 18 U.S.C. § 242. In pleading guilty, Williams admitted that he willfully disregarded a substantial risk of serious harm to Ms. Henry’s health and safety by failing to take reasonable measures to address her medical conditions. When Williams is sentenced, he faces a maximum penalty up to life imprisonment.
This case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted jointly by Trial Attorney Christine M. Siscaretti of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant United States Attorneys Chandra Menon and Tracey N. Knight of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
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Former Chief Lending Officer of New Jersey Bank Admits Making False Statements to United States in an Effort to Secure Federal Guarantees on LoansRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – A Pennsylvania man today admitted improperly securing a federal guarantee on a loan by making false statements to the Small Business Administration (SBA) about the creditworthiness of those loans while serving as the chief lending officer of a New Jersey bank, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
James Bortolotti, 51, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael Shipp in Trenton federal court to an information charging him with one count of knowingly making false statements for the purpose of influencing the action of the SBA.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
While serving as the chief lending officer of a New Jersey bank (Bank-1), Bortolotti became aware of a Small Business Administration lending program to incentivize lenders, including banks, to loan money to small businesses by providing a 75 percent SBA-backed guarantee on loans. When a lender applies an SBA guarantee on a loan, the lender must disclose information related to the creditworthiness of the small business. Bank-1 hired a consulting firm to help the bank apply for SBA-backed guarantees.
On Feb. 29, 2012, a consultant from the consulting firm submitted an application to the SBA for a guarantee of approximately $3.75 million on loans totaling approximately $5 million made to a small business located in Robbinsville, New Jersey. The application contained false information related to the creditworthiness of the business. Bortolotti knew the application contained false information, but reviewed and signed the application on behalf of the bank.
Making false statements for the purpose of influencing the action of the SBA carries a maximum potential penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for April 16, 2020.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the SBA-Office of the Inspector General (SBA-OIG), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Kevin Kupperbusch in Philadelphia; the FDIC-Office of the Inspector General (FDIC-OIG), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Patricia Tarasca in New York; special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Gregory W. Ehrie in Newark, and special agents of the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General (FHFA-OIG), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Robert Manchak, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Stephen Ferketic of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Opioid Abuse Prevention and Enforcement Unit in Newark.
Defense counsel: William C. Cagney Esq., New Brunswick, New Jersey
Former Bank Branch Manager Sentenced to 33 Months for Scheme to Steal Funds from Elderly Account HoldersRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Fetehi Mohammed, 34, of Washington, D.C., who was a branch manager of a Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. in Alexandria, Virginia, was sentenced on Wednesday, January 8, 2020 to 33 months in prison for stealing funds from elderly customers’ accounts, depositing the funds in the form of cashiers’ checks into his personal accounts at another financial institution, and transferring stolen funds from Virginia to the District of Columbia for his use.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu, Kelly R. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Washington, Field Office, and Peter R. Rendina, Postal Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
On September 30, 2019, Mohammed pled guilty to a two-count Criminal Information charging in Count One - Interstate Transportation of Money Taken by Fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. 2314, and Count Two - Engaging in Monetary Transactions in Property Derived from Specified Unlawful Activity, in violation of 18 U.S.C. 1957. Today, the Honorable Ellen S. Huvelle sentenced Mohammed to a 33-month term of incarceration followed by three years of supervised release on both counts to run concurrently to one another. The Court also ordered Mohammed to pay restitution to Wells Fargo Bank in the amount of $509,864.95. In addition, Judge Huvelle ordered Mohammed to pay a $38,779.01 forfeiture money judgment in addition to the restitution ordered. Wells Fargo Bank has covered the individual account holders for their losses due to Mohammed’s criminal conduct, so it will receive any restitution Mohammed pays.
As detailed in the statement of offense, from February 1, 2017, through on or about March 27, 2019, Mohammed exploited his position as a bank branch manager to execute a scheme to defraud elderly bank customers. Mohammed used the trust that he had built with a half-dozen senior clients to steal over $500,000 from their accounts and to transfer some of those funds from Virginia into the District of Columbia for his use and benefit.
“Fraud perpetrated against our senior citizens is deplorable,” said IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Kelly R. Jackson. “Fetehi Mohammed used his position of trust as a bank manager to victimize elderly bank customers for his own personal benefit. Although his sentence won’t right his actions, we hope it brings some closure to those he defrauded.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office works with the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and other law enforcement partners on a Financial Crimes Task Force which investigates, among other things, crimes targeting older victims. The Office hopes to build on its work successfully prosecuting such cases and in addition, the Office will continue its extensive community outreach efforts in hopes of increasing awareness to protect seniors.
“This sentencing highlights the joint efforts of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to prosecute those who prey on our nation’s senior citizens,” said U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge for the Washington Division, Peter Rendina.
“Fetehi Mohammed exploited his position as a bank branch manager to defraud senior citizens of their savings. His sentencing illustrates the Department of Justice’s commitment to protecting elder adults and should send a clear message about the consequences for those who prey upon their vulnerability,” said U.S. Attorney Liu.
These efforts are part of the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative, a multi-faceted nationwide program to combat elder abuse, neglect and financial fraud and scams that target senior citizens. According to the Justice Department, each year an estimated $3 billion is stolen or defrauded from millions of American seniors. Through “grandparent scams,” fake prizes, romance scams, fraudulent IRS refunds, and even outright extortion, criminals try to exploit some of the most vulnerable Americans and steal their life’s savings.
With approximately 10,000 Americans turning 65 each day, the population of potential targets continues to grow. The U.S. Census Bureau projects that the population of Americans over 65 years of age will increase to 83.7 million in 2050, nearly double the estimated population of 43.1 million as of the most recent census.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Liu praised the efforts of the U.S. Postal Inspector and the IRS agents who investigated the case. She also acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialist C. Rosalind Pressley and Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Lucas, who prosecuted the case.
More information about the Department of Justice’s elder justice efforts can be found on its Elder Justice Website at https://www.justice.ogv/elderjustice.
Florida businessman sentenced for role in Venezuela bribery schemeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A former general manager and partial owner of a Florida-based energy company was sentenced to 48 months in prison today for his role in a scheme to corruptly secure contracts from Venezuela’s state-owned and state-controlled energy company, Petroleos de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA).
Juan Jose Hernandez Comerma (Hernandez), 54, of Weston, Florida, pleaded guilty Jan. 10, 2017, to one count of conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and one count of violating the FCPA.
Today, U.S. District Judge Gray H. Miller of the Southern District of Texas imposed the four-year term and further ordered Hernandez to pay a fine of $127,000 and forfeit $3 million.
According to admissions made in connection with Hernandez’s plea, Hernandez conspired with U.S.-based businessmen Abraham Jose Shiera Bastidas (Shiera) and Roberto Enrique Rincon Fernandez (Rincon) to pay bribes and other things of value to PDVSA purchasing analysts. This ensured that Shiera’s and Rincon’s companies were placed on PDVSA bidding panels, which enabled the companies to win lucrative energy contracts with PDVSA. From 2008 until 2012, while general manager and, later, partial owner of one of Shiera’s companies, Hernandez provided recreational travel and entertainment and offered bribes to PDVSA officials, including Alfonzo Eliezer Gravina Munoz (Gravina), based on a percentage of contracts the officials helped to award to Shiera’s companies.
Rincon, Shiera and Gravina have all also pleaded guilty in the case and await sentencing.
Hernandez is the sixth defendant to be sentenced as part of a larger, ongoing U.S. government investigation into bribery at PDVSA. Including Hernandez, Rincon, Shiera and Gravina, to date, the Justice Department has announced charges against 25 individuals, 19 of whom have pleaded guilty in connection with the investigation.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Houston is conducting the ongoing investigation with assistance from HSI in Boston. Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSA) John Pearson and Robert S. Johnson of the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) are prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorneys Jeremy R. Sanders, Sarah E. Edwards and Sonali D. Patel of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section. SDTX AUSA Kristine Rollinson is handling the forfeiture aspects of the case.
The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs and the Swiss Federal Office of Justice also provided assistance.
The Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting all FCPA matters. Please see the Justice Department’s FCPA page for more information.
Florida Man Sentenced for Wire Fraud Conspiracy, Aggravated Identity Theft and FEMA FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Florida man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston in connection with the fraudulent abuse of the U.S. Postal Service’s (USPS) Informed Delivery electronic notification system, and in connection with FEMA fraud.
Kevens Louis, 26, of Plantation, Fla., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns to 27 months in prison and one year of supervised release. In June 2019, Louis pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. Louis and his co-conspirators, Fred Alcius, Lucson Appolon, and Peter Belony were charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud in April 2019. Appolon and Belony previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced to two years in prison and three years of supervised release. Alcius remains a fugitive.
Informed Delivery is a free electronic notification service provided by the USPS that gives residential and P.O. Box customers the ability to digitally preview their incoming mail and manage their packages.
The defendants accessed victims’ personal identifying information, including names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, and addresses on the “dark web” and then used the information to open credit cards in the victims’ names. The defendants then subscribed to Informed Delivery using the victims’ personal identifying information and a fraudulent email address created to track the delivery of credit cards to the victims’ residential mailboxes. The defendants subsequently intercepted the credit cards at mailboxes before the victims could receive them. The credit cards were then used by the defendants at ATMs and to purchase gift cards and other items for resale at retail establishments. The defendants traveled to states across the East Coast in furtherance of the fraud, including New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts.
Louis’s sentencing also resolved charges initially brought by the Southern District of Florida involving fraud in connection with a major disaster and aggravated identity theft. Specifically, on various occasions in 2017, Louis fraudulently submitted claims to FEMA for assistance.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Joseph W. Cronin, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Florida; Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Office; Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; and the Concord, Fort Lauderdale (Fla.), Harvard, Kittery (Maine), Norfolk, Plantation (Fla.) Sherborn, and Weston Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie A. Queenin of Lelling’s Cybercrime Unit prosecuted the case.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.