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Thursday 5 September 2019
Plattsburgh Man Sentenced to 78 Months for Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Sean R. Fabian, age 42, of Plattsburgh, New York, was sentenced yesterday to 78 months in prison for conspiring to distribute 300 grams of cocaine.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith; Special Agent in Charge Ray Donovan, United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division; and Plattsburgh City Police Chief Levi J. Ritter.
Fabian was convicted by a jury on April 5, 2019 following a four-day trial. The evidence showed that on February 11, 2018, Fabian conspired with Hannah Dyer to traffic 300 grams of cocaine from New York City to Plattsburgh for distribution. On February 13, 2018, the pair met in Albany where Fabian provided the 300 grams of cocaine to Dyer, who was to take the cocaine to Plattsburgh. The New York State Police stopped Dyer’s vehicle in Clinton County and found the 300 grams of cocaine in a thermos, submerged in a fish stew.
United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also sentenced Fabian to 6 years of supervised release, to follow his incarceration. Fabian has been in custody since his arrest on June 21, 2018.
This case was investigated by the DEA and the Plattsburgh City Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas Collyer and Troy Anderson.
Pittsburgh Woman Pleads Guilty in Scheme to Launder Proceeds of Marijuana TraffickingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to launder proceeds of marijuana trafficking, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Holly Shrum, 29, of the City’s Overbrook neighborhood, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that the Drug Enforcement Administration and other agencies conducted a multi-year investigation of a marijuana trafficking conspiracy. The investigation revealed that during the operation of the conspiracy, Shrum conspired to launder proceeds obtained through the marijuana trafficking. According to information provided to the court, Shrum and her boyfriend, codefendant Christopher Schanck, were caught attempting to launder $25,000 in drug proceeds at the Rivers Casino by inserting $20 bills into a gaming machine in increments of $500 and then cashing out the vouchers, without ever having gambled at the casino.
Judge Cercone scheduled sentencing for January 15, 2020, at 11 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued the defendant’s bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Indiana Borough Police conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Shrum. 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.
Pittsburgh Drug Dealer Sentenced to Nearly 4 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of the North Side of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to three years and ten months (46 months) in prison on conviction of possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine as well as maintaining a drug involved premises, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Kawama Hightower, 41.
According to the information presented to the court, on September 11, 2018, FBI investigators conducted a traffic stop of Hightower while he was leaving his residence. During the traffic stop, they recovered crack cocaine and nearly $4,000 in cash from Hightower and his vehicle. Later on that day, investigators executed a search warrant at Hightower’s residence and recovered additional quantities of crack cocaine, nearly 100 bricks of heroin, two loaded firearms, additional ammunition, digital scales, and drug packaging materials.
Prior to imposing the sentence, Judge Ambrose stated that Hightower’s sentence was intended to hold him accountable for his crimes, reflect the seriousness of his crimes, and protect the public.
Assistant United States Attorney Mark V. Gurzo are prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation of Hightower. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
Orange County Felon Indicted for Federal Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – A 30-year-old Vidor, Texas man has been indicted for federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas announced U.S. Attorney Joseph D. Brown.
Taylor Graham Cozart was indicted by a federal grand jury today and charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to information presented in court, on July 30, 2019, law enforcement officers responded to a motorcycle accident on Interstate Highway 10 in Orange County, Texas. The defendant was the driver of the motorcycle, which was later determined to be stolen. Cozart was transported to a nearby hospital and the accident scene was cleared, during which time officers located a backpack affixed to the motorcycle. The backpack contained a pistol, ammunition, $3,000 cash, methamphetamine, Xanax and Hydrocodone pills. Further investigation revealed Cozart was a convicted felon having three prior felony drug convictions. As a convicted felon, Cozart is prohibited from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.
If convicted, Cozart faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, ammunition and body armor, and improving the safety of residents in the Eastern District of Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
This case is being investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle S. Englade.
It is important to note that a complaint, arrest, or indictment should not be considered as evidence of guilt and that all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Onondaga County Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Investment FraudRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Charles H. Riel, age 60, of Clay, New York, was sentenced today by Senior United States District Court Judge Frederick J. Scullin, Jr. to serve 24-months’ imprisonment, to be followed by three years of post-release supervision for defrauding investors of hundreds of thousands of dollars. As part of his sentence, Riel was ordered to pay $197,500 in restitution to his victims. The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith, James Hendricks, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Jonathan D. Larsen, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), New York Field Division.
As part of his guilty plea, Riel admitted that he was the founder, principal member, and officer of REinvest, LLC, a New York limited liability company based in Clay. From June 2010, through May 2014, Riel provided false, fraudulent, and misleading information about REinvest, LLC, including historical rates of return on supposed REinvest LLC investments and fictitious testimonials touting the financial successes of non-existent REinvest, LLC investors. As part of his guilty plea, Riel also admitted that he collected money from a total of five investors, all of whom had received false and fraudulent information regarding the nature of Riel’s business and how their funds would be utilized. Riel used a substantial portion of the monies received from investors to pay for his own personal living expenses rather than investing the funds in ways that could result in a legitimate return. He also used money from later investors to pay back a portion of the investment of an earlier investor.
This case was investigated by IRS-CI and the FBI, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicolas Commandeur and Michael D. Gadarian.
Oneonta Man Convicted for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM -- A federal jury yesterday convicted an Oneonta man of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribution of over 500 grams of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Jay E, Town and Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge Clay Morris.
The jury returned its guilty verdict against Brian Turner, 47, after two days of testimony before U.S. District Judge Annemarie Axon. Turner will be sentenced on January 9, 2020.
"My office is dedicated to stop the influx of dangerous drugs like methamphetamine into our communities,” Town said. “This verdict assured the citizens of the Northern District that yet another peddler of this poison faces a potential life sentence and that he will soon be joined by other drug dealers in a federal prison.”
“The verdict returned in this trial is yet another example of DEAs unwavering commitment to keeping drug dealers from selling poison in our communities. The defendant distributed untold amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine to those suffering from addiction. While battling the opioid epidemic, DEA and our law enforcement partners stand vigilant against the cyclical nature of drug distribution. We cannot forget or overlook methamphetamine. Our communities are also being flooded with this dangerous drug. Defendant Turner will now hear the clang of his prison cell door instead of the clink of profits lining his pocket from selling drugs.”
Evidence at trial proved that Turner conspired with others in 2016 and 2017 to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine in Northern Alabama. DEA agents identified Turner after intercepting a phone call between him and his drug supplier in June 2017. Further investigation revealed that Turner received methamphetamine and cocaine from his supplier every few weeks for more than a year and a half, receiving several pounds of the drugs over the life of the conspiracy.
The penalty for possessing with intent to distribute and distribution of over 500 grams of methamphetamine includes imprisonment for not less than 10 years or more than life.
The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Austin Shutt and Blake Milner prosecuted the case.
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Ocala Armed Career Criminal Pleads Guilty to Firearm and Narcotics ChargesRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Daprix Devon Gadson (29, Ocala) today pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. Gadson, who qualifies as an Armed Career Criminal, faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison for the firearm offense and up to 40 years’ imprisonment for the narcotics offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, on April 16, 2019, Gadson led officers from the Ocala Police Department on a high-speed vehicle chase when they attempted to pull him over for a traffic offense. After fleeing for approximately two miles, Gadson crashed his car into a stop sign, disabling the car. Gadson then fled on foot, but was soon apprehend and arrested. During a subsequent search of Gadson’s vehicle, officers recovered a loaded semi-automatic handgun, 55 rounds of handgun ammunition, and at least 20 grams of methamphetamine. At the time of his arrest, Gadson had 13 prior felony convictions, including 5 for serious drug offenses, and was therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was jointly investigated by the Ocala Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William S. Hamilton.
This is another case prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.
New York Ambulette Company Owners Plead Guilty in More than $8.6 Million Health Care Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
Two New York ambulette company owners pleaded guilty today for their roles in a more than $8.6 million health care kickback scheme.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Richard P. Donoghue of the Eastern District of New York, Assistant Director in Charge William F. Sweeney Jr. of the FBI’s New York Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Scott J. Lampert of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Office of Investigations and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Larsen of IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) New York made the announcement.
Igor Radinovskiy, 60, and Aleksandr Radinovskiy, 37, father and son, both of Brooklyn, New York, each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to offer and pay health care kickbacks and one count of conspiracy to defraud the lawful functions of the IRS before U.S. Magistrate Judge Steven M. Gold of the Eastern District of New York. Sentencing has not yet been scheduled.
The defendants were the co-owners and officers of the ambulette company Sabe Ambulette Services Inc., which did business as Mobility Transportation. According to court filings and admissions, Igor Radinovskiy and Aleksandr Radinovskiy participated in a conspiracy in which they paid more than $8.6 million in kickbacks to co-conspirator companies not enrolled in the Medicaid program, for the referral of beneficiaries recruited by those co-conspirators, so that Sabe Ambulette could falsely bill Medicaid as if Sabe had transported those beneficiaries to various clinics in Brooklyn and Queens. The defendants then falsely reported to the IRS that the illegal kickback payments were legitimate business expenses, which caused relevant tax forms to falsely under-report business income and claim deductions.
The FBI, HHS-OIG and IRS-CI investigated the case, which was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, under the supervision by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York. Trial Attorney Andrew Estes of the Fraud Section is prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS 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 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion. In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Firearm at Veterans Affairs HospitalRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that MEKAILL HARRIS, age 20, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty September 3, 2019 to a one count Superseding Bill of Information charging him with possession of a firearm in a federal facility.
On April 12, 2019, HARRIS was being investigated by investigators at the Veterans Affairs Hospital, located at 119 South Galvez, New Orleans, after investigators learned that HARRIS was engaged in a domestic dispute with his girlfriend, an employee at the V.A. Hospital. According to HARRIS’s girlfriend, she was concerned that HARRIS may return to the hospital in possession of a firearm. Responding investigators located HARRIS on the hospital’s campus. HARRIS fled from officers. While running, a silver 9-millimeter handgun dislodged from HARRIS’s person onto the ground. The weapon was recovered by V.A. investigators.
On September 3, 2019, HARRIS was sentenced to credit for time served and placed on probation for a period of 1-year imprisonment by Magistrate Judge Michael B. North.
This case was brought as 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 safe for everyone. PSN 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.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the law enforcement officers at the Veterans Affairs Hospital and agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany L. Reed is in charge of the prosecution.
New Jersey Man Pleads Guilty to Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Shariff Britton, 36, of Jersey City, New Jersey, pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing over 500 grams of cocaine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 15, 2018, a New Hampshire State Police trooper patrolling I-95 stopped Britton for driving violations. Upon contact with Britton, the trooper smelled marijuana emanating from the vehicle and observed a marijuana “blunt” in plain view in the center console. During a consensual search, the trooper located a backpack containing 1015 grams of cocaine. Britton was placed under arrest. After his arrest, Britton admitted that he was transporting the cocaine from New Jersey to Maine.
Britton is scheduled to be sentenced on December 16, 2019.
“Interstate drug trafficking presents a serious threat to the health and safety of our citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “It is imperative that we interrupt the interstate transportation of cocaine and other dangerous drugs. I commend the New Hampshire State Police for their diligence in preventing over a kilogram of cocaine from being distributed.”
This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.
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New Haven Man Pleads Guilty to Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KEVIN McFARLANE, also known as “Jabari McBurn” and “Dexter Creque,” 41, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to firearm possession and crack cocaine distribution offenses.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 8, 2018, in New Haven, McFarlane possessed a loaded Glock model 43 9mm semiautomatic handgun and approximately 97 grams of crack cocaine. The firearm had been reported stolen in Florida.
McFarlane’s criminal history includes a 2004 conviction in Connecticut for sale of a hallucinogen/narcotic, and a 2007 conviction in Florida for murder in the second degree.
McFarlane pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base (“crack”), an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least five years.
A sentencing date is not scheduled.
McFarlane has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on July 11, 2018.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the New Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins.
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.
NDTX Round-up September 5, 2019Read the Press Release
SENTENCING - Samuel Colin
On August 26, Samuel Colin, 25, was sentenced to 78 months in the United States Bureau of Prisons for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Court records reveal that from October 18, 2016, to September 6, 2017, he conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine. The case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Investigation and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service, and the Dallas Police Department. The case was prosecuted by AUSA George Leal.
SENTENCING - Jose Guadalupe Silva
On August 23, Jose Guadalupe Silva, 31, was sentenced to 17 years and 6 months in federal custody after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Silva admitted to working with others to distribute cocaine. The court authorized wiretapping and found that Silva and his co-conspirators used coded language to discuss the sale and dispersion of cocaine. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by AUSA George Leal.
GUILTY PLEA - Ronnie Rusk
On August 23, Ronnie Rusk, 44, pled guilty to using a communication facility to facilitate a drug felony. Rusk admitted to using a cell phone to discuss the distribution of a half-kilogram of cocaine. He coordinated with his co-defendant and a Drug Enforcement Administration cooperating defendant to deliver the cocaine to the cooperating defendant. Rusk faces a maximum sentence of up to four years. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by AUSA Suzanna Etessam.
GUILTY PLEA - Keon Dwayne Thompson
On August 27, Keon Dewayne Thompson, 35, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. Thompson and his co-conspirators traveled to Bonham, Texas to kidnap the victim. Thompson threatened the victim at gunpoint to force compliance with his demands to withdraw funds from the victim’s bank account. Thompson faces a maximum possible sentence of 15 years in federal custody. The case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Dallas Police Department. The case is prosecuted by AUSA PJ Meitl.
GUILTY PLEA - James Earl Cude
On August 27, James Earl Cude, 54, pled guilty to receipt of child pornography. Cude received the pornography via his cell phone through the Kik application. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. This case was investigated by Homeland Security and is prosecuted by AUSA Camille Sparks.
INDICTMENT – Jose Alanis
On August 28, Jose Alanis, 34, was charged with production of child pornography and possession of prepubescent child pornography. Alanis allegedly used his cell phone and laptop to document and view minors engaged in sexually explicit acts. This case was investigated by the Dallas Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations and is prosecuted by AUSA Camille Sparks. If convicted, Alanis faces up to 80 years in federal custody.
SENTENCING - Donnie Arlondo Ferrell
On September 4, Donnie Arlondo Ferrell, 26, was sentenced to 30 years in federal custody for murder and using a firearm during a crime of violence. Ferrell murdered a postal worker during a road rage incident where he fired at the USPS vehicle. When law enforcement attempted to arrest Ferrell, he refused to exit his residence and surrender for several hours. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, Dallas Police Department, and the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department. AUSA P.J. Meitl prosecuted the case. To learn more about the case, click here.
GUILTY PLEA – Rafael Rubi
On September 3, Rafael Rubi, 24, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a felon. Federal agents were able to link shell casings from four separate drive-by shootings to Rubi’s firearms that were found in his home and car, along with heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. The case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Dallas Police Department. AUSA Rebekah Rickets and AUSA Gary Tromblay prosecuted this case. To learn more about the case, click here.
Multiple Austin Area Drug Trafficking Arrests in March 2018 Result in Lengthy Federal Prison TermsRead the Press Release
In Austin yesterday, a federal judge sentenced the last of 35 defendants convicted of his role in a Austin-based drug trafficking conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney John F. Bash; Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Will Glaspy, Houston Division; Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs, San Antonio Division; IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Richard D. Goss, Houston Field Office; Texas Department of Safety Director Steven McCraw; Austin Police Chief Brian Manley, Hays County Sheriff Gary Cutler; and, Cedar Park Police Chief Sean Mannix.
U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman sentenced 41–year-old Marquis Collins of Austin to 90 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release. Sentences for the other 34 defendants ranged from time served to 280 months (ringleader Luis Villagrana-Martinez) in federal prison.
A federal grand jury indictment unsealed in March 2018 charged the 35 defendants with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, namely methamphetamine, cocaine and/or heroin. All of the defendants eventually pleaded guilty to the drug conspiracy charge.
During the course of the conspiracy, Luis Villagrana-Martinez, age 33 of Leander, TX, and Carlos Garcia-Duarte, age 41 of Dale, TX (135 months imprisonment), were leaders of the distribution cells operating in Austin. Members of this organization utilized a local mechanic’s shop to unload, distribute, and ship drugs to sales and distribution points in Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia, Minnesota, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Mississippi.
During this investigation, law enforcement agents in several jurisdictions seized a combined total of approximately 148 pounds of crystal methamphetamine, some 56 gallons of liquid methamphetamine, 62 pounds of cocaine, 13 pounds of heroin, and approximately $400,000 in U.S. currency.
“The sheer number of defendants arrested in this case, across so many states and jurisdictions, proves once again that agencies working together are a tremendous force multiplier; achieving a level of success no one agency, office, or department could hope to attain alone’” stated DEA Special Agent in Charge Glaspy. “DEA will continue to work closely with our counterparts whenever – and wherever – necessary to protect our communities.”
The DEA Austin Resident Office, FBI Austin, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Texas Department of Public Safety, Austin Police Department, Hays County Sheriff’s Office, and Cedar Park Police Department investigated this case.
Agencies providing assistance during this investigation include: Round Rock Police Department; Georgetown Police Department; Lakeway Police Department; Williamson County Sheriff’s Office; Travis County Sheriff’s Office; Rockwall Police Department; Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office; Travis County District Attorney’s Office; Bell County District Attorney’s Office; Williamson County District Attorney’s Office, Bastrop County District Attorney’s Office, DEA (McAllen, Milwaukee Field Office, Brownsville, Eagle Pass, Dallas Division, Houston Division and Houston SRT); FBI (McAllen); Homeland Security Investigations (Austin); U.S. Border Patrol (Del Rio Sector) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dan Guess and Matt Harding prosecuted this case (A18cr91) on behalf of the Government.
Mexican National Charged with Importing Large Amount of MethRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 31-year-old Mexican man is set to appear in federal court following charges of importing 22 kilograms of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
Oscar Emmanuel Villegas-Ipina was originally charged by criminal complaint July 31, 2019. A federal grand jury returned the two-count indictment Aug. 27, 2019, alleging conspiracy to import and importing methamphetamine into the United States.
Today, he is set to appear for his arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sam Sheldon at 1:00 p.m.
According to the charges, Villegas-Ipina approached the Lincoln Juarez Port of Entry in Laredo July 29, 2019, driving a 2008 Toyota Sienna with his wife and two children. He was sent to secondary examination where a positive K-9 alert and x-ray examination allegedly revealed anomalies within the backrest of the front and rear seats. A search of the seats resulted in a discovery of 21 bundles of methamphetamine weighing approximately 22.48 kilograms, according to the allegations.
If convicted, he faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony Garrie Brown is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Memphis Man Sentenced to 300 Months for 2017 CarjackingRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Cartrail Jacobs, 26, has been sentenced to 300 months in federal prison for carjacking and brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced sentence today.
According to information presented in court, in the early morning hours of December 22, 2017, officers responded to a carjacking of a 2015 Black Ford Mustang at 974 N. Parkway. A Memphis woman was driving her Mustang on North Parkway when Jacobs, who was driving a previously carjacked Ford Taurus, intentionally rear-ended her Mustang. When the driver of the Mustang got out to inspect the damage from the wreck, Jacobs approached with a gun and demanded the vehicle. Jacobs drove away in the Mustang and one of the two other occupants of the Taurus drove it away. The victim immediately called police.
Memphis Police Officers responded and observed both the Black Ford Mustang and the Ford Taurus traveling together near the location of the carjacking. When police attempted to pull the vehicles over, a chase ensued involving both the Mustang, the Taurus and multiple Memphis law enforcement units. Jacobs ultimately crashed the Ford Mustang into a wall, ending the pursuit. While taking him into custody, officers discovered a loaded Ruger 9mm pistol in the Ford Mustang. Jacobs admitted to owning the weapon and possessing it during the carjacking. Because of his prior criminal record, Jacobs was sentenced as a career offender.
On September 5, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Mark S. Norris sentenced Jacobs to 300 months in federal prison followed by 3 years supervised release.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Under our Carjacking Initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is continuing to coordinate with our federal and local law enforcement partners to prioritize and target carjacking cases for aggressive federal prosecution. This 25-year sentence demonstrates our resolve to incapacitate the most violent offenders, uphold the rule of law, deter criminal conduct with a strong message of significant consequences, and make us all safer."
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Memphis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney P. Neal Oldham prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
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Maryland Man Charged with Cyberstalking Ohio VictimsRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Maryland man was arrested this morning on federal charges of cyberstalking victims in the Southern District of Ohio.
Vincent Brocoli, 32, of Essex, Md., was charged with three counts of cyberstalking in an indictment returned here August 29 and unsealed today.
Benjamin C. Glassman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Todd A. Wickerham, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division, announced the charges.
According to the indictment, from August 2016 until April 2019, Brocoli (also known as Matthew Dehart, BunchMedia and BunchMarketing), cyberstalked a female victim and her parents by creating social media accounts in their names, sending them threats, and using the Internet to cause substantial emotional distress to their family.
Brocoli allegedly created social media accounts like @xokirstylies1, @xokirstyslut1 and @killyourselfkirsty, among others.
It is alleged Brocoli used the Internet to post photos of the victim with a cross on her forehead and send messages like “I hope you get cancer and die UGLY SLLUT [sic],” and “Go away and die. Just put a gun in your mouth and get it over with.”
The indictment also details that, over the course of nearly three years, Brocoli allegedly used the Internet and multiple social media platforms to post threatening and sexually vulgar comments, calling the victim a “worthless lying slut” and a “whore.” Brocoli also allegedly used the Internet to post comments asserting that the victim and her husband had AIDS, like claiming that the victim “took [her husband]’s gay cum down her throat and now she has aids. Diseased whorebag.”
Brocoli allegedly posed as the victim’s father and mother online by creating multiple Instagram and Twitter handles using their names. He also used the Internet to post comments to the victim’s mother, calling her a “pedophile,” commenting that she needed “to be arrested for child abuse,” and telling her to “Shut up and die.” Brocoli further used the Internet to post to the victim’s father that he would “be the first to go to hell and answer to the real God when the time comes.”
Cyberstalking is a federal crime punishable by up to five years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Glassman commended the investigation of this case by the FBI, as well as Assistant United States Attorney Jessica H. Kim and Special Assistant United States Attorney Christopher N. St. Pierre, who are prosecuting the case.
An indictment merely contains allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Marketing Executive for Two Global Companies Pleads Guilty to Federal Charge for Defrauding Her EmployersRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Rebecca Jelfo, age 47, of Silver Spring, Maryland, pleaded guilty today to a federal wire fraud charge in connection with a scheme to defraud two employers of a total of at least $855,000 by submitting fraudulent and inflated invoices.
The guilty pleas were announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur and Special Agent in Charge Jennifer C. Boone of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office.
According to her plea agreement, from approximately 2008 until December 2015, Jelfo was Head of Marketing and Communications for the Americas for Company A, a global airline. Between January 4, 2016 and January 31, 2018, Jelfo was a Senior Director of Luxury Brand Marketing – Partnerships and Promotions for Company B, a global hospitality company. As part of Jelfo’s duties at both companies, she contracted with marketing vendors and was responsible for approving certain marketing invoices.
Jelfo admitted that beginning while she was employed at Company A and continuing throughout her employment with Company B, Jelfo participated in an over-invoicing scheme designed to defraud her employers. Specifically, Jelfo submitted or caused to be submitted, false and inflated invoices purported to be for various marketing services or products provided to her employer. Jelfo knew that the invoices did not accurately reflect the products or services provided by the vendors, but took steps to make sure that Company A and Company B paid the invoices. After the companies paid the invoices, Jelfo instructed the vendors to remit payments to cover her personal debts.
As detailed in her plea agreement, Jelfo instructed three separate vendors to remit payments to cover her personal expenses. Specifically, from as early as May 21, 2015 through August 24, 2016, Vendor 1 remitted payments for Jelfo’s personal expenses totaling $263,697, including a $13,000 payment to Jelfo’s Neiman Marcus credit card account, a $28,000 payment to Jelfo’s Saks Fifth Avenue credit card account, and purchasing $15,000 in American Express gift cards, some of which Jelfo used to make purchases at a high-end furniture store in Washington, D.C.
Similarly, while employed by Company B, Jelfo submitted false invoices purporting to come from Vendor 2. After Company B paid the invoices to Vendor 2, Vendor 2 remitted payments totaling $106,302 to Jelfo’s personal American Express credit card account. On at least one occasion, Jelfo instructed Vendor 3 to submit an inflated invoice to Company B and provided Vendor 3 with fraudulent documentation that appeared to justify the inflated invoice. Based on Jelfo’s request, Vendor 3 sent an invoice to Company B requesting a payment of $74,880. After receiving the payment from Company B, Vendor 3 made a $64,851.24 payment to Jelfo’s personal credit card account, as instructed by Jelfo.
Jelfo admitted that between May 21, 2016 and January 31, 2018, she stole at least $855,587.25 from Company A and B as a result of this scheme. As part of her plea agreement Jelfo is required to forfeit any proceeds or property obtained as a result of the scheme, and to pay restitution in the full amount of the loss, which is at least $855,587.25.
Jelfo faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for the wire fraud. U.S. District Judge Peter J. Messitte has scheduled sentencing for Jelfo on December 10, 2019, at 9:30a.m.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the FBI for its work in the investigation and thanked investigators from the victim companies for their assistance. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin B. Pulice and Gregory D. Bernstein, who are prosecuting the case.
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Marion County woman admits to role in cocaine and heroin distributionRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Andrew Parker, of Mannington, West Virginia, has admitted to his involvement in a cocaine and heroin distribution operation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Parker, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Aiding and Abetting in the Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Parker admitted to selling cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in April 2018 in Monongalia County.Parker 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 Zelda E. Wesley is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
Man who Robbed West Mifflin PNC Bank Wearing a Pirates Hat and McDonald’s Uniform Shirt Will Spend 4+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court four years and two months (50 months) in prison and three years’ supervised release on his conviction of bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed the sentence on Barry Daniels, 30, who committed the bank robbery while wearing a McDonald’s uniform shirt. Daniels was formerly employed by the fast-food restaurant.
According to information presented to the court, on or about September 12, 2018, Daniels, wearing a Pirates baseball hat and a black buttoned-up McDonalds’ shirt, entered the PNC Bank at 4917 Homeville Road, West Mifflin, PA 15122, handed the teller a deposit slip with a note on the back, which read: "Give me all of your 100s and 50s." Surveillance video, from the bank, shows Daniels arrive at the bank, driving a black vehicle, enter the bank and rob it, and then exit the bank, returning to the same vehicle which he then drove out of the parking lot. The Court was further advised that Daniels took $505.00 from the bank teller.
Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Mifflin Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Daniels, and were assisted by the Turtle Creek Police Department in apprehending the defendant.
Man Sentenced to 97 Months in Prison for Role in International Credit Card Fraud and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – A man who pleaded guilty to his involvement in a multimillion dollar international counterfeit credit card fraud and money laundering conspiracy was sentenced today to 97 months in federal prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, announced United States Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.
Bruno Macedo Correia, 29, pleaded guilty in July 2019, to conspiracy to commit fraud and related activity in connection with access devices and conspiracy to commit money laundering. In addition to imprisonment, United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey ordered Correia to pay restitution in the amount of $2,288,180.97. The Court also imposed a $5,000,000 criminal forfeiture money judgment, and ordered 196 items of property and U.S. currency forfeited.
Correia admitted that, from January 2013 to about January 2017, he conspired with others to commit credit and debit card fraud by using “skimmers” placed on automatic teller machines (ATMs), Global Cash Advance (GCA) machines, and other means to obtain stolen account information. The group also obtained stolen credit card information through the use of malware and point of sale intrusions. Correia and his co-conspirators set-up credit card forgery “laboratories” in residences and hotel rooms to manufacture counterfeit credit and debit cards. They used the counterfeit credit and debit cards to obtain cash withdrawals from ATMs and GCA machines located in Nevada and elsewhere and also to purchase high-end merchandise including luxury watches, jewelry, and clothing at hotel-casinos and businesses in Las Vegas, Nevada and other cities throughout the United States, including: Del Mar, California; Detroit, Michigan; New Orleans, Louisiana; Nassau County, New York; Biloxi, Mississippi; and Atlantic City, New Jersey. The group laundered the fraud proceeds and resold the fraudulently obtained retail items on the black market or online marketplaces.
Twenty-one individuals were charged in a 2017 indictment for their alleged roles in the conspiracy. To date, 12 defendants have pleaded guilty or have been sentenced. Co-defendants Fausto Teixeira Martins Neto and Felipe Augusto Vicale Martins are currently scheduled for a jury trial beginning in January 2020. The remaining seven indicted defendants are currently at large. The charges as to these defendants are allegations only and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case was investigated by the FBI, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, and the Henderson Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Burns is prosecuting the case.
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Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing Nearly $800,000 in JewelryRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Arlington man pleaded guilty today to robbing two Falls Church pawn shops of nearly $800,000 in jewelry and watches.
According to court documents, in July 2014, Budder Khan, 29, entered Route 50 Gold and Jewelry Exchange, forced the store’s employees to the ground using what appeared to be a real firearm, smashed the business’s glass display cases and took jewelry and watches worth over $650,000. Later, in April 2015, Khan entered Top Pawn, again used what appeared to be a real firearm to frighten the store’s employees, smashed the business’s glass display cases and stole jewelry and watches worth over $143,000.
Khan pleaded guilty to two counts of interference with commerce by robbery and faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison when sentenced on December 6. 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 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.
This investigation was conducted by the FBI WFO’s Violent Crime Safe Streets Task Force which is composed of Special Agents of the FBI, along with Detectives from the Fairfax County Police, the Prince William County Police, the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, the Fauquier County Sheriff’s Office, the Arlington County Police, the Alexandria City Police, the Leesburg Police, Vienna Police Department, Herndon Police Department, Fairfax City Police, Falls Church Police Department, the Washington Metropolitan Police Department and in partnership with the ATF, USMS, HSI, and other federal agencies. This task force focuses on investigating the most egregious and violent criminal enterprises and actors operating in the Capital Region.
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 after Senior U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis, III accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander E. Blanchard 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. 1:19-cr-199.
Local Waterfowl Outfitter Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Guided HuntRead the Press Release
PEORIA, Ill. – Rick A. Hamm, 58, of Chillicothe, Ill., owner of “Show Me Your Snows,” a waterfowl outfitting service, pleaded guilty today in federal court to unlawful sale of wildlife, in violation of the Lacey Act. Hamm admitted that in December 2015, he and his assistant guides took two hunters on a guided waterfowl hunt in Fulton County, Ill. During the hunt, Hamm and his guides used an electronic caller to lure geese into shooting range, knowing it was unlawful under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Illinois conservation regulations. As a result of the use of the electronic caller, the hunters were able to shoot and kill geese. The two hunters were agents with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service acting in an undercover capacity.
At sentencing, scheduled on Jan. 9, 2020, before U.S. District Judge James E. Shadid, the government and Hamm have agreed to a sentence of 24 months of probation with the condition that during the 24-month period, Hamm is banned from hunting and guiding worldwide. Hamm has also agreed to pay $2,500 in restitution to the State of Illinois and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and to pay a $50,000 fine.
This is the second time Hamm has been prosecuted in federal court for wildlife crimes. In 2000, he pleaded guilty to three violations of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act dealing with shooting waterfowl over the bag limit, transporting untagged waterfowl, and hunting with lead shot. In that case, Hamm paid a $5,000 fine.
Each of Hamm’s co-defendants, Trent Gustafson, Zachary Entwistle, James Schupp, and J. Weston Schupp, have previously pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing on October 17, 2019, before Magistrate Judge Jonathan E. Hawley.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Legge in the prosecution. The charges were investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with the assistance of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Las Vegas Businessman Admits Trafficking More than $1 Million in Counterfeit ElectronicsRead the Press Release
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas W. Pilchak (619) 546-9709
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – September 5, 2019
SAN DIEGO – A Las Vegas business owner admitted today to running a years-long conspiracy to import counterfeit electronics from China into the United States.
During a hearing this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara L. Major, Saad Ahmed pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Traffic in Counterfeit Goods.
Ahmed, 32, owns and operates PhonePartsUSA, a Las Vegas, Nevada-based company that sells cellular telephone parts and other electronics throughout the United States—including to customers in San Diego. As part of his plea agreement, Ahmed acknowledged conspiring with a variety of individuals in China to bring counterfeit cell phone parts and accessories from China to the United States. The conspiracy stretched back to at least September 2012, according to court documents.
PhonePartsUSA trafficked $1,499,999 worth of counterfeit goods during this period, per Ahmed’s plea agreement. The phony merchandise bore trademarks from Samsung, Apple and the electronic quality certification company UL, but were actually inauthentic copies. The charges against Ahmed also allege that he grossly undervalued his international imports to deflect U.S. Customs’ attention from his shipments.
Ahmed agreed to pay restitution to the three trademark holders in an amount totaling $269,681, which constituted the net proceeds received by Ahmed’s business from trafficking in the counterfeit merchandise. Ahmed also agreed not to contest the forfeiture of 4,453 cell phone parts and accessories seized from PhonePartsUSA as part of a search by Homeland Security Investigations last summer.
“Counterfeit goods confuse and deceive the public, damage legitimate manufacturers, and can even pose a serious risk to consumers’ safety,” said U.S. Attorney Robert Brewer. “This office and our agency partners will aggressively prosecute who seeks to make a quick illegal profit at the public’s expense.”
“Trafficking counterfeit merchandise hurts legitimate businesses and poses a significant public safety risk as these individuals prey on unsuspecting consumers who believe they are getting name brand products at a reduced price,” said Francisco Burrola, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (Nevada), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. “HSI Nevada agents are committed to conducting intellectual property theft investigations that not only protect the companies who have trademarked licensed products, but also the consumers who believe they are buying authentic and/or safe products.”
Ahmed is scheduled to be sentenced on December 9, 2019, before U.S. District Judge Thomas Whelan.
DEFENDANT Case Number 19-cr-3401-W
Saad Ahmed Las Vegas, NV Age: 32
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Traffic in Counterfeit Goods – Title 18, U.S.C., Sections 371 & 2320(a)
Maximum penalty: Five years in prison, $250,000 fine (or twice the pecuniary gain or loss), restitution and forfeiture.
AGENCY
Homeland Security Investigations
U.S. Customs & Border Protection
Justice Department Reaches Settlement Agreement with Physicians and El Paso Physicians Group over Allegations of Violating the False Claims ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney John F. Bash of the Western District of Texas announced today that Dr. Robert Moreno, Cheryl Moreno, William “Bill” Collins, Accutrack Medical Claims Service, LLC, and El Paso Integrated Physicians Group, P.A. paid $2,929,162 to settle allegations that they defrauded the U.S. and the State of Texas through their Medicare, Medicaid and other federal healthcare programs.
“Providers who line their pockets by over-billing for medical care increase medical costs for all of us and drain critical funds from Medicare and other government health programs,” said U.S. Attorney Bash. “The Government will continue to hold accountable medical professionals who undermine our healthcare system through fraudulent over-billing for care.”
On October 30, 2013, Sergio Garcia filed a qui tam action in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, alleging that Dr. Robert Moreno, Cheryl Moreno, William “Bill” Collins, Accutrack Medical Claims Service, LLC, and El Paso Integrated Physicians Group, P.A. double-billed and over-billed government payors for Remicade (Infiximab), an infusion drug sold in single-use vials. Relator alleged that the Group pooled Remicade from partially used vials and used it in other patients, resulting in double-billing for the split vial, and also that it billed for Remicade not used or that was diluted. The complaint further alleged that the Group billed for drugs illegally imported from Canada and other foreign countries.
Multiple federal and state agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General, Department of Defense-Defense Health Agency and the Texas Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, conducted an extensive investigation into the allegations. Based on the results of the investigation, the U.S., along with the State of Texas, pursued efforts to recover some of the federal and state funds that they allege, were illegally obtained by the defendants.
The lawsuit, United States ex rel., Sergio Garcia, v. Robert Moreno, M.D., et al., Civ. A. No. SA:13-CA-0992XR was filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to sue for false claims against the U.S. and to receive a share of any recovery. The Act permits the U.S. to intervene in such lawsuits, as the U.S. has done in this case.
The claims asserted against the defendants are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
Department of Justice Attorney Susan Strawn (formerly an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Texas) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Eduardo R. Castillo represented the federal government in the civil lawsuit.
Jury Finds Midland Man Guilty of Attempted Online Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
In Midland yesterday, a federal jury convicted 37-year-old Midland resident Cole S. Crocker of attempted online enticement of a minor, announced U.S. Attorney John F. Bash, FBI Special Agent in Charge Emmerson Buie, Jr., El Paso Division, and Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steven McCraw.
Evidence presented at trial revealed that on March 22, 2019, Crocker responded to an online advertisement uploaded by an FBI undercover agent. Crocker began chatting with the undercover agent via messaging applications, and the conversation quickly turned graphic and sexual in nature. The undercover agent represented to Crocker that he had access to an eight-year-old girl for sex, and Crocker expressed interest. As the chats progressed, Crocker also engaged in several recorded phone conversations with the undercover agent where they discussed the logistics of a meet-up to have sex with the eight-year-old girl. Crocker was arrested later that evening when he arrived at the purported meeting location in Midland.
“Through the hard work of law enforcement and our Midland office, we have taken another child predator off the streets. Child abuse is a massive problem in our society, and we are fighting it with everything we’ve got,” stated U.S. Attorney Bash.
Crocker, who faces a mandatory minimum of ten years and up to life in federal prison, was placed into the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following the verdict. Sentencing is scheduled for 9:30am on December 3, 2019, before U.S. District Judge David Counts in Midland.
This investigation and arrest was the result of a joint operation between the Texas Department of Public Safety and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shane A. Chriesman is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Jordy Robertson Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Wire Fraud OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that JORDY ROBERTSON, age 37, from St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana, pled guilty today to a two-count bill of information that charged ROBERTSON with wire fraud and conspiring to distribute cocaine.
According to the bill of information, ROBERTSON’s drug trafficking conspiracy ran from at least May of 2017 through January of 2019, and his wire fraud scheme ran from October of 2016 through January of 2019.
On the drug charges, ROBERTSON faces up to twenty years in prison, followed by at least three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million. On the wire fraud charges, ROBERTSON faces up to twenty years in prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain to ROBERTSON or the gross loss to any victims.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan L. Shih and Nicholas D. Moses are in charge of the prosecution.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”). OCDETF is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
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Italian Shipping Company Sentenced to Pay $4 Million for Concealment of Pollution from VesselRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A shipping company based in Italy was sentenced today to pay $4 million for discharging oily waste and other pollutants into the sea and then lying about it, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito and Deputy Assistant Attorney General Jean E. Williams announced.
The company, d’Amico Shipping Italia S.p.A., previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Susan D. Wigenton in Newark federal court to an information charging it with violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships. In addition to the $4 million penalty, the terms of the plea agreement place d’Amico on probation for four years. During probation, the company will be subject to the terms of an environmental compliance program that requires outside audits by an independent company and oversight by a court-appointed monitor
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
The charge to which d’Amico pleaded guilty related to the deliberate concealment of vessel pollution from an oil tanker – the M/T Cielo di Milano – owned by that company, which visited ports in New Jersey multiple times, as well as ports in Maryland and Florida. The company admitted that the ship’s crew intentionally bypassed required pollution prevention equipment by discharging machinery space bilge water and oily waste from the vessel’s engine room through its sewage system into the sea. The company also admitted that crew members falsified the vessel’s Oil Record Book, a required log regularly inspected by the Coast Guard; made false statements to the Coast Guard during its inspection of the M/T Cielo di Milano in January 2015; and destroyed the vessel’s sounding log after the Coast Guard had boarded the vessel.
The company admitted the following in a detailed joint factual statement filed in Court:
- From August 2014 through January 2015, the M/T Cielo di Milano used two different methods to illegally dispose of oily waste, both of which involved discharging it from the vessel’s sewage holding tank into the sea.
- Some of the discharges took place within the exclusive economic zone, that is, within 200 nautical miles of the United States.
- Two different chief engineers were involved in the illegal discharges and the intentional falsification of the Oil Record Book to cover up those discharges.
- One chief engineer falsified the Oil Record Book to state that bilge water had been processed through the vessel’s pollution control equipment when, in fact, it had not.
- The crew routinely hid equipment used to conduct the discharges when the vessel entered port.
- During a Coast Guard inspection of the vessel in Bayonne, New Jersey, in January 2015, the chief engineer and second engineer lied to inspectors and told lower-level crew members to lie as well.
- After the Coast Guard departed the vessel, the chief engineer destroyed a notebook containing tank soundings by burning the pages in the vessel’s boiler flame in order to conceal the notebook from the Coast Guard.
The $4 million penalty includes $1 million in organizational community service payments to restore the coastal environment of New Jersey. The funds will be directed to environmental projects that to be selected by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to support the cleanup of marine pollution, preservation of aquatic life, and restoration of the shorelines around Newark Bay.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito and Deputy Assistant Attorney General Williams credited special agents of the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Richard D. Cox, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen P. O’Leary of the Health Care and Government Fraud Unit in Newark and attorneys from the Environmental Crimes Section of the U.S. Department of Justice.
Illegal Trafficker of Fish and Wildlife Sentenced to Four Years ProbationRead the Press Release
Spokane – William D. Hyslop, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Simon Lee Sampson, age 71 of Toppenish, Washington, and an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation, was sentenced after having pleaded guilty on April 24, 2019, to two Lacey Act violations, including the Sale of Wildlife and Conspiracy to Sell Fish/Wildlife. United States District Judge Bastian sentenced Sampson to a four-year term of probation.
The Lacey Act enforces federal conservation efforts for birds, wildlife, fish, and plants. It applies to tribal and non-tribal members alike. According to information disclosed during court proceedings, beginning in August 2015 through November 2016, Sampson sold sturgeon, steelhead, salmon, smelt, and deer to an undercover Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife detective in violation of Yakama tribal law and the Lacey Act. Sampson described himself as “hustling fish” since 1976.
Sampson illegally trafficked a number of species of fish listed as threatened by the Endangered Species Act. With the assistance of other individuals, Sampson harvested or possessed fish or hunted deer in violation of Yakama tribal law, then unlawfully sold the fish or deer to the undercover, which violated the Lacey Act. At times, Sampson indicated that the sale was “under the table” and “hush hush.” Sampson also acknowledged to the undercover officer that steelhead fishing was regulated because of over-harvesting. Sampson’s illegal sales of fish and wildlife to the undercover officer totaled $4,720.
In pronouncing sentence, Judge Bastian cautioned Sampson that if he did not follow the rules during his term of probation, there could be severe consequences. Sampson has a prior state conviction in Oregon for fishing violations during prohibited seasons. He was convicted in 2017 in Multnomah County Circuit Court in Portland, Oregon for Prohibited Activities During Closed Season involving Chinook Salmon.
United States Attorney Hyslop said, “Illegal trafficking of wildlife represents a serious threat to our critical ecosystems. I commend the collaborative work of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Law Enforcement and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife-Police in investigating this matter. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington will continue to aggressively prosecute those individuals who may engage in the illegal trafficking of wildlife.”
Jim Landon, Director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Office of Law Enforcement, said, “NOAA is committed to managing marine resources in a fair and sustainable manner. Criminals who circumvent the law for their own personal gain harm both the resource itself as well as those who depend on the resource. The NOAA Office of Law Enforcement and its state and tribal partners are dedicated to enforcing the laws and regulations that exist to prevent this type of exploitation."
This case was investigated by the NOAA Office of Law Enforcement and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife-Police. This case was prosecuted by Meghan McCalla, an Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington.
Houston Men Indicted for Interstate Transportation of Stolen GoodsRead the Press Release
BEAUMONT, Texas – Two Houston men have been indicted for federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas announced U.S. Attorney Joseph D. Brown today.
Lynric Doniel Strambler, 40, and Curtic DeMaine White, 43, were indicted by a federal grand jury today and charged with interstate transportation of stolen property and conspiracy.
According to information presented in court, on July 31, 2019, Strambler and White are alleged to have burglarized the Best Buy Co., Inc in Mobile, Alabama and D’Iberville, Mississippi. Strambler and White were arrested in Vidor, Texas while transporting approximately 20 stolen iPhones from Mississippi to Texas.
If convicted, the defendants each face up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Vidor Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher T. Tortorice.
It is important to note that a complaint, arrest, or indictment should not be considered as evidence of guilt and that all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Houston Man Charged in First Known Case Since Bump Stock BanRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A federal grand jury has indicted a 43-year-old Houston man on four counts of firearms violations including possession of a machine gun, specifically, a bump stock, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
The four-count indictment, returned yesterday, alleges Ajay Dhingra possessed a machine gun, made two materially false statements in the acquisition of two firearms and unlawfully possessed a firearm after having been adjudicated as a mental defective or who had been committed to a mental institution.
Previously charged by criminal complaint, he made his initial appearance in federal court Aug., 19, 2019, at which time he was ordered into custody pending further criminal proceedings. He is expected to appear for his arraignment before U.S. District Judge Gray Miller Sept. 12, 2019, at 10:00 a.m.
According to court records, on or about Aug. 17, 2019, Dhingra called the George Bush Foundation and left a concerning message. Authorities discovered Dhingra had previously been committed to a mental institution, according to the allegations. As such, he is prohibited by federal law of possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The charges further allege law enforcement contacted Dhingra at his residence where they found two firearms in his possession, one of which law enforcement identified as a rifle with an installed bump stock.
Authorities obtained a search warrant, which allegedly resulted in the discovery of a Glock pistol, a Colt rifle with a bump stock and 277 rounds of 9 mm ammunition.
According to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), this is the first case filed in Texas and what is believed to be the first nationwide involving illegal possession of bump stocks since the law was implemented in March 2019.
If convicted of any of the charges, Dhingra faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 fine.
The Secret Service and ATF conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ted Imperato and Steven Schammel are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Homewood Man with Heroin in his House and Car Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to three years and five months (41 months) in prison on conviction of attempt to possess with intent heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Farren Mason, Sr., 60, of the City’s Homewood neighborhood.
According to information presented to the court, on November 9, 2018, Mason’s car and house were searched. During the searches, agents and task force officers recovered 150 bricks of heroin from Mason’s car and additional heroin and $70,000 in cash were found in Mason’s house. The total amount of heroin seized totaled 232 grams.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Horan stated that Mason’s sentence was intended to hold him accountable for his crimes and to deter future criminal conduct.
Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the North Versailles Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Mason.
Hendricks County man sentenced to 30 months in prison for charges of tax evasionRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS - United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced today that Scott C. Cole, 55, Brownsburg, Indiana, was sentenced to 30 months in prison by United States District Chief Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. Cole previously pleaded guilty to a charge of tax evasion.
“Cole, a former attorney and paid tax preparer, intentionally and purposely used his ‘expertise’ to repeatedly obstruct the Internal Revenue Service and to evade his federal tax obligations,” said Minkler. “Taxpayers who deceive and defraud the federal government by deliberately failing to pay their federal income taxes, like Cole, will be found and prosecuted.”
“The Tax Division with its partners in the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will prosecute tax professionals, such as Cole, who abandon their professional ethics and instead willfully commit tax fraud,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Tax Division.
According to Chief Judge Magnus-Stinson, the IRS did not succumb to the defendant’s attempt to wear them down and the defendant has no credibility before the court. Stinson also said, “Cole has a complete lack of respect for the law, for the tax code, his fellow citizens and for the court.”
Cole attempted to evade and defeat tax payments by opening bank accounts with sham company names and directed payment for services he rendered to the same artificial companies. He paid personal expenses through third-party business accounts, dealt extensively in cash and filed false 1040 tax returns understating taxable income.
The court found that the defendant owes $2,410,443 to the IRS.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.
Kathy A. Enstrom, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation said, “After years of deceit, Scott Cole has been dealt the consequences of evading his federal income taxes. Our sworn mission is to protect the federal tax system from those that cheat it. Today’s sentencing of Mr. Cole emphasizes the Internal Revenue Service will continue their pursuit of those who use fraudulent methods to corrupt our nation’s tax system.”
According to Assistant United States Attorney James M. Warden and Assistant Chief Stanley J. Okula of the Tax Division, who prosecuted this case for the government, Cole will serve two years of supervised release following his imprisonment and pay full restitution to the government.
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 utilize and partner with the law enforcement agencies to prosecute individuals engaged in income tax evasion. See United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana Strategic Plan Section 5.4.
Hartford Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Gang-Related Drug Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that NOEL CORTES, 55, 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 distributing fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from an investigation conducted by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division into the trafficking of narcotics and associated violence in Hartford’s South End by members and associates of the Almighty Latin Kings Nation (“Latin Kings”). The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that two alleged members of the Latin Kings operated separate drug trafficking organizations that distributed fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine. The organizations used multiple locations to process, package, store and distribute narcotics, and possessed firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking activities.
In May and June 2015, investigators conducted several controlled purchases of suspected fentanyl from Richard Colon, also known as “Droopy,” of Hartford. On May 15, 2018, Cortes delivered 200 bags of fentanyl on behalf of Colon to complete one of the transactions.
Cortes has been detained since his arrest on July 24, 2018. On April 24, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl.
Cortes’ criminal history dates to 1985 and includes convictions for robbery, assault, narcotics and firearms offenses.
On August 20, 2019, Colon pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. He awaits sentencing.
This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force and the Hartford Police Department. The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and Shooting Task Force have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.
Guatemalan Man Charged with Marijuana Cultivation Operation in National Forest in Tulare CountyRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment today against Oscar Alfredo Castanaza-Ortega, 34, of Guatemala, charging him with conspiring to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, manufacturing marijuana, damaging public lands and natural resources, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers located 2,864 marijuana plants in the Twin Springs area of the Sequoia National Forest in Tulare County. Castanaza was found in the grow site with a loaded .38-caliber firearm and a box of .38-caliber ammunition.
The marijuana cultivation operation caused significant damage to the land and natural resources. Native trees, brush and other vegetation were cut down, and large amounts of fertilizers and pesticides were found in the area. Thousands of pounds of trash, irrigation hose, and camping equipment were found at the site.
This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Forest Service with assistance from the California Department of Justice’s Campaign Against Marijuana Planting (CAMP) and the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen A. Escobar is prosecuting the case.
If convicted of the drug conspiracy and manufacturing offense, Castanaza faces a mandatory minimum statutory penalty of 10 years and a maximum penalty of life in prison, as well as a fine of up to $10 million. The environmental charge carries a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Castanaza faces a mandatory consecutive prison term of five years. In addition, he may be liable for restitution to the Forest Service for damage sustained to the land and natural resources as a result of the cultivation activities. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Guatemalan Citizen Sentenced to 60 Months for Alien SmugglingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jose Eduardo Lopez-Hernandez, age 21, and a citizen of Guatemala who was residing in Providence, Rhode Island, was sentenced yesterday to 60 months in prison for smuggling aliens.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Robert N. Garcia, Chief Patrol Agent, United States Border Patrol, Swanton Sector.
As part of his guilty plea, Lopez-Hernandez admitted that on August 22, 2018, he and a co-defendant were paid to travel from Rhode Island to Chateaugay, New York, where they picked up five Romanian citizens who had just illegally entered the United States from Canada. When Border Patrol attempted to stop their vehicle, the co-defendant led Border Patrol on a high-speed chase before crashing the vehicle in Ellenburg, New York. Lopez-Hernandez, the co-defendant, and three of the Romanians fled the crash scene, but were all apprehended within hours; no one was injured.
Following his term of imprisonment, Lopez-Hernandez will be transferred to the custody of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, for removal proceedings.
This case was investigated by the Border Patrol, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Kopita and Douglas Collyer.
Gregg County Man Sentenced for Federal Financial CrimesRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – A 59-year-old Longview, Texas, man has been sentenced to federal prison for criminal violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Joseph D. Brown and FBI Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno.
Timmy Lynn Vaughn pleaded guilty on May 2, 2019, to making false statements to a bank and was sentenced to 12 months and one day in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle. Vaughn was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $145,100.
According to information presented in court, in March of 2016, Vaughn applied for a personal loan at a bank located in the Eastern District of Texas using the name of another individual. The promissory note and documents submitted to the bank in connection with the application contained forged signatures of the borrower. As a result, the loan was approved and the proceeds remitted by a cashier’s check payable to one of Vaughn’s businesses. The cashier’s check was deposited the same day into an account controlled by Vaughn.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Tyler Resident Agency and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Coan.
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Former Vallejo Elementary School Teacher Pleaded Guilty to Attempted Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Andrew Stephen Lund, 37, of Vallejo, pleaded guilty today to attempted online enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, in April 2018, Lund engaged in online sexual chats with a person whom he believed to be a 14-year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent. Lund was an elementary school teacher in Vallejo at the time he attempted to entice the minor.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Homeland Security Investigations and the Silicon Valley Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Schuller Hitchcock is prosecuting the case.
Lund is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley on Dec. 5. Lund faces a mandatory statutory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison, as well as a fine up to $250,000. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet safety education.
Former Topsham Resident Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Portland, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Gary Boshoff, 52, formerly of Topsham, Maine, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to possessing child pornography.
According to court records, in August 2016, agents investigating the sharing of child pornography over the internet downloaded files depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct from a computer using an Internet Protocol address assigned to Boshoff’s residence in Topsham. A search warrant was obtained for the residence, and agents executed the warrant in October 2016. Boshoff admitted to agents that he had used the internet to search for and download child pornography images. A review of a laptop seized under the warrant revealed images depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Boshoff faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He also faces a term of supervised release following his release from prison of no less than five years and up to life. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Maine State Police Computer Crimes Unit, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service and the Topsham Police Department. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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.
Former Hospital Worker Sentenced to 14 Years for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza today sentenced Vorarut Vorasiangsuk (37, Orlando) to 14 years in federal prison for receipt and possession of child pornography. The court also ordered Vorasiangsuk to forfeit multiple computers and hard drives, which he had used to commit the offenses.
A federal jury had found Vorasiangsuk guilty on May 14, 2019.
According to court documents, evidence presented at trial, and information discussed during the sentencing proceeding, Vorasiangsuk used an online file-sharing program to download and view child pornography for years. The FBI initially identified Vorasiangsuk after he distributed child pornography to an undercover agent through the file-sharing program.
Upon executing a search warrant at Vorasiangsuk’s residence, agents recovered numerous electronic devices that contained more than 3,800 images and more than 140 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children, including many young children. During an interview with agents, Vorasiangsuk admitted that he had been viewing child pornography for approximately 16 years. During that same timeframe, he had worked with infants and children as a respiratory therapist at a local hospital.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily C. L. Chang.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Former Burbank Elementary School Teacher Pleads Guilty to Producing Child Pornography Depicting His Former StudentRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A former elementary school teacher pleaded guilty today to federal criminal charges for sexually exploiting his 15-year-old former student by producing pornographic images of her.
Sean David Sigler, 55, of Burbank, pleaded guilty to two felony counts of production of child pornography. Sigler, whom a federal grand jury indicted in May 2018, previously taught fifth-grade students at Bret Harte Elementary School in Burbank and at Gardner Street Elementary School in Hollywood.
According to a criminal complaint filed in this case, Sigler became involved in the victim’s personal life after the child left Sigler’s classroom. He then used his position as former teacher, mentor, and father figure to gain the trust of the victim and her parent. Sigler then exploited that trust to gain sexual access to the minor victim. Over the course of 15 months, Sigler regularly transported the victim to his home, where he gave her alcohol and pills and then photographed and filmed his sexual activity with her. Sigler began having sex with the minor victim when she was just 15 years old.
Sigler admitted in his plea agreement that he created multiple sexually explicit videos of the victim, and that he also took sexually explicit photographs of her, beginning when she was 15 years old. Some of child pornography Sigler created included images and videos involving sadomasochistic conduct. Sigler also created child pornography by modifying a pornographic image of the minor victim’s body and digitally superimposing the face of a different underage former student. Sigler’s digital devices contained numerous images and videos of his sexual acts with the victim, as well as more than 5,000 images of child pornography depicting unknown pre-pubescent minors, according to court documents.
As part of his plea agreement, Sigler agreed to forfeit $271,506 in cash seized by the government, which constitutes the proceeds from the sale of the home where Sigler produced child pornography.
United States District Judge John A. Kronstadt has scheduled a December 5 sentencing hearing, at which time Sigler will face a statutory maximum sentence of 60 years in federal prison. Each count of production of child pornography also carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison.
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Burbank Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Damaris Diaz of the Violent and Organized Crime Section and Devon Myers of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, which is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched by the Justice Department in 2006 and led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
Five former Verizon employees indicted for opening bogus accounts with stolen identity informationRead the Press Release
ATLANTA – Seven defendants, including five former Verizon store employees, have been indicted for opening Verizon accounts using stolen identity information and then fraudulently charging tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise to those accounts.
“These former employees abused their positions—and numerous unsuspecting victims—by allegedly using stolen identity information to steal thousands of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Byung J. “BJay” Pak. “Identity theft remains an all-too-common scourge causing widespread damage. We are targeting the problem through our valued partnerships with federal, state, and local authorities and with private companies.”
“This investigation and subsequent indictments demonstrate the Secret Service’s commitment to safeguarding innocent victims, our financial institutions, and our communities,” said Kimberly A. Cheatle, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, Atlanta Field Office. “We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney’s Office to arrest individuals who steal from unsuspecting victims.”
According to U.S. Attorney Pak, the charges, and other information presented in court: From about November 2018 through May 2019, five Verizon employees allegedly opened numerous fraudulent customer accounts at three Verizon stores in Georgia, located in Newnan, Buckhead, and Smyrna. The employees obtained and used stolen personally identifiable information (PII) to open the accounts. The scheme involved a group of “runners,” who also brought stolen PII into the stores. The PII belonged to real people and included names, addresses, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers. Using the stolen information, the corrupt employees created Verizon accounts in the victims’ names, without the victims’ knowledge. The employees ran credit checks on the victims before opening the accounts, using the victims’ Social Security numbers.
The defendants then used the accounts to purchase tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of wireless phones and accessories. After the fraudulent purchases, the accounts went into default, causing the victims to receive bills for the merchandise charged on the fraudulent accounts. Verizon immediately terminated the employees upon discovering the fraud.
The grand jury returned a 36-count indictment charging the following individuals with conspiracy, access device fraud, and aggravated identity theft:
- Edward Bolden, Jr., 37, of Newnan, Georgia, was the former General Manager of the Newnan store.
- Roland C. Newell, 31, of Newnan, Georgia, worked as a Solutions Specialists at the Newnan store.
- Robert A. Woods, 30, of Atlanta, Georgia, worked as a Solutions Specialists at the Newnan store.
- Christian R. James, 36, of Savannah, Georgia, worked as a Solutions Specialist at the Buckhead store.
- Marchel D. Robinson, 33, of Riverdale, Georgia, was charged as a runner in the scheme.
- Eric Gamboa, 39, of Conley, Georgia, was charged as a runner in the scheme.
The grand jury returned a separate 21-count indictment also charging the following individual with conspiracy, access device fraud, and aggravated identity theft:
- James C. Miller, 34, of Atlanta, Georgia, worked as a Solutions Specialist at the Smyrna store.
The defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury on August 28, 2019. Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Secret Service. Verizon’s Corporate Security Investigations Department in Atlanta provided valuable assistance to law enforcement through the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen H. McClain, Chief of the Complex Frauds Section, is prosecuting the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
- Edward Bolden, Jr., 37, of Newnan, Georgia, was the former General Manager of the Newnan store.
Federal Grand Jury Indictments Allege Drug Trafficking Ring that Smuggled Hundreds of Pounds of Cocaine, Ecstasy, Other NarcoticsRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – Thirteen people were arrested today on two federal grand jury indictments alleging a conspiracy to export hundreds of pounds of narcotics, including cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine, from Mexico through Southern California and into Canada.
Three defendants were arrested in the Los Angeles area, while the others were arrested in the Seattle and Vancouver, Canada areas. Three additional defendants are currently in state custody and will be transferred over to federal custody at a later date.
The indictments unsealed today charge a total of 30 defendants with a series of narcotics-related offenses, including conspiracies to distribute, import, and export controlled substances. The indictments further allege that the organization imported MDMA, or ecstasy, from Canada to Southern California in exchange for other drugs.
According to the indictments and other court documents, the defendants, one of whom was arrested on August 24 and remains in federal custody, were members of related international drug trafficking organizations that worked together to traffic bulk quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin from Mexico to Canada through Southern California, including at locations in Costa Mesa, Compton, Ventura, and Redlands.
The drugs would be exchanged for either cash or bulk quantities of ecstasy, the indictments allege. Some of the defendants allegedly also conspired to transport narcotics to Australia from Southern California. The drug trafficking organizations included members of Canadian, Mexican, Serbian, Chinese, and Sudanese organized crime groups, according to court documents.
The defendants allegedly used modified cellular devices with military-grade end-to-end encryption to communicate with each other regarding their drug trafficking business, including the transportation of narcotics between the United States and Canada. These devices are manufactured primarily by Canadian companies that remove most functionality from the phones, leaving only an encrypted email system, court papers state.
In total, law enforcement seized approximately 428.5 kilograms (944.7 pounds) of cocaine, nine kilograms (19.8 pounds) of heroin, 46.6 kilograms (102.7 pounds) of methamphetamine, and 46.12 kilograms (106.1 pounds) of MDMA. Law enforcement also seized approximately $811,000 in Canadian currency.
Those defendants arrested today in the U.S. will appear this afternoon in United States District Court, including in downtown Los Angeles.
If convicted of all charges, the defendants would face a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Los Angeles Police Department, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. Critical support was provided by the Toronto Police Service, the Sudbury Police Service, the Hamilton Police Service, Peel Regional Police, the Hawthorne Police Department, the Baldwin Park Police Department, the West Covina Police Department, the Fontana Police Department, the California Highway Patrol, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Justice Canada, and the Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs. This investigation is part of the Justice Department's Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Victoria A. Degtyareva of the International Narcotics, Money Laundering, and Racketeering Section.
Indictment 1 Indictment 2Father and Son Owners of Ambulette Company Plead Guilty to $8.6 Million Healthcare Kickback SchemeRead the Press Release
Earlier today in federal court in Brooklyn, Igor Radinovskiy and Aleksandr Radinovskiy, co-owners of Sabe Ambulette Services Inc., d/b/a Mobility Transportation, located in Brooklyn and North Bellmore, New York, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to offer and pay health care kickbacks and one count of conspiracy to defraud the lawful functions of the Internal Revenue Service.
Richard P. Donoghue, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Brian A. Benczkowski, Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, William F. Sweeney, Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), Scott J. Lampert, Special Agent-in-Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, New York Region (HHS-OIG), and Jonathan D. Larsen, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), announced the guilty pleas.
“The Radinovskiys used their ambulette company as a vehicle to falsely bill Medicaid for transportation services performed by drivers who were not enrolled in the Medicaid program, in exchange for kickbacks from the defendants,” stated United States Attorney Donoghue. “With today’s guilty pleas, the defendants have been held accountable for this scheme that they carried out at the expense of the taxpayer-funded program.”
According to court filings and admissions by the defendants, Igor Radinovskiy and Aleksandr Radinovskiy, father and son respectively, paid kickbacks to co-conspirator drivers for recruiting Medicaid beneficiaries for transportation to clinics in Brooklyn and Queens, and referring those beneficiaries to the defendants’ company. Those drivers were not enrolled in the Medicaid program, and were not authorized to bill Medicaid for the transportation. The defendants, whose ambulette company was enrolled in Medicaid, billed the government program for the drivers’ services, kept 15 to 20 percent of the Medicaid reimbursements and kicked back 80 to 85 percent to the unauthorized drivers. In total, between January 2008 and April 2018, the defendants and their co-conspirators paid more than $8.6 million in kickbacks.
For the calendar years 2008 through 2013, the defendants filed false tax returns, reporting the kickback payments as legitimate business expenses, under-reporting business income and claiming false business deductions.
The FBI, HHS-OIG and IRS-CI investigated the case, which was prosecuted by the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, under the supervision by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York and the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section. Trial Attorney Andrew Estes of the Fraud Section is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendants:
IGOR RADINOVSKIY
Age: 60
Brooklyn, New YorkALEKSANDR RADINOVSKIY
Age: 37
Brooklyn, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 19-CR-373 (FB)
Father and Son Indicted on Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that PALMA JEFFERSON, SR. and PALMA JEFFERSON, JR., a father and son from the greater New Orleans area, were charged in a seven-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury on August 29, 2019. PALMA JEFFERSON, JR. was charged with possession with the intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana, along with possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Both father and son were charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
PALMA JEFFERSON, JR. is charged in Counts 1 and 2 with Possession with the Intent to Distribute 100 grams or more of Heroin and 500 grams or more of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B)(i). If convicted on these counts, PALMA JEFFERSON, JR. faces a term of imprisonment between 5 and 40 years, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. PALMA JEFFERSON, JR. is charged in Count 3 with Possession with the Intent to Distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A)(viii). If PALMA JEFFERSON, JR. is convicted on this count, he faces a term of imprisonment of 10 years up to life, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least 5 years supervised release. PALMA JEFFERSON, JR. is charged in Count 4 with Possession with Intent to Distribute a quantity of Marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D). If convicted of this count, PALMA JEFFERSON, JR. faces a term of imprisonment of not more than 5 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and at least 2 years supervised release. PALMA JEFFERSON, JR. is charged in Count 5 with Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A). If convicted of this count, PALMA JEFFERSON, JR. faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years up to life imprisonment, along with a $250,000 fine and up to 5 years supervised release following any term of imprisonment. This sentence must run consecutively to all other sentences imposed upon the defendant.
PALMA JEFFERSON, JR. is charged in Count 6 and PALMA JEFFERSON, SR. is charged in Count 7 both with being felons in possession of firearms, in violation of 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(1). If convicted on these counts, both defendants face a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine and up to 3 years of supervised release.
U. S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as 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 safe for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, then Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN was launched in 2001.
The case was investigated by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Orleans Gang Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Melissa Bücher of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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Executive Director of Suburban Autism Center Charged with Fraudulently Billing for Nonexistent ServicesRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — The executive director of a suburban autism center has been indicted on federal fraud charges for allegedly billing a private insurer for nonexistent therapeutic services.
LATRICE HARRELL operated The Champion Center for Autism Inc., in Oak Forest. From November 2015 to May 2018, Harrell submitted fraudulent claims to a private insurer for therapeutic services that were not rendered, according to an indictment returned in U.S. District Court in Chicago. The claims represented that patients had received treatment by the center’s occupational therapist or behavioral analyst, when, in fact, Harrell knew that no such services were provided, the indictment states. Harrell used the names and information of the therapist and analyst without their knowledge to create the fictitious claim forms, the charges allege. As a result of the scheme, Harrell fraudulently obtained at least $1.6 million from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, the indictment states.
The indictment was returned Aug. 29, 2019. It charges Harrell, 46, of Olympia Fields, with seven counts of health care fraud, two counts of making false statements in a health care matter, and two counts of aggravated identity theft.
Harrell pleaded not guilty today at her arraignment before U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Kendall. A status hearing was scheduled for Nov. 18, 2019.
The indictment was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; and Jeffrey S. Sallet, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of the FBI. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Pruitt.
The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Each count of health care fraud is punishable by up to ten years in prison, while each false statement count carries a maximum sentence of five years. Aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory prison sentence of two years, which must be served consecutively to the sentence for the underlying offense. If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
East Texas Men Guilty of Federal Drug Trafficking ViolationsRead the Press Release
TYLER, Texas – Two East Texas men have pleaded guilty to federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Joseph D. Brown today.
David Anthony Ebanez, 23, of Jacksonville, and Vincent James Galella, 28, Whitehouse, each pleaded guilty this week to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine before U.S. Magistrate Judge K. Nicole Mitchell.
According to information presented in court, on April 10, 2019, Ebanez was found in possession of over 50 grams of a substance containing methamphetamine at the Cherokee County Courthouse in Rusk, Texas.
On Sep. 24, 2018, Galella was found in possession of methamphetamine in a vehicle in Smith County, Texas.
Ebanez and Galella were both indicted by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2019, and charged with federal drug trafficking violations.
Under federal statutes, Ebanez faces a minimum of five years and up to 40 years in federal prison while Galella faces a maximum of 20 years. These guidelines prescribed by Congress are provided here for information purposes, as the sentencings will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the U.S. Probation Office.
This case was investigated by the DEA Dallas Field Division, Tyler Resident Office; the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Jacksonville Police Department, and the Smith County Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary Ann Cozby and Colleen Bloss.
District Man Pleads Guilty to Multiple Home Invasions in Trinidad NeighborhoodRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Donte Watson, 33, of Washington, DC, pleaded guilty on Friday in a case where he was charged with 38 counts of armed burglary, armed robbery, armed kidnapping, and other violent crimes that he committed in the Trinidad neighborhood of Northeast Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu and Peter Newsham, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Watson pleaded guilty in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia on August 30, 2019 to burglary while armed and kidnapping while armed. As part of the plea agreement he will serve between 15 and 27 years in prison. He will be sentenced on November 12, 2019, by the Honorable Robert Salerno.
According to the government’s evidence, over 11 days in November and December 2018, Watson committed 10 different home invasions and attempted home invasions in the Trinidad neighborhood of Washington D.C. All of the incidents occurred during nighttime hours when people were at home. In the instances where he successfully entered homes, he mostly confronted and robbed the occupants, usually with a weapon. In one case, he kidnapped two victims, taking them from their bedroom at knifepoint to go to ATM machines. Watson was on parole for a prior burglary conviction, where he likewise broke into an occupied Trinidad residence at night and robbed the victims, as well as two other convictions for attempted robbery.
In announcing the plea, U.S. Attorney Liu and Chief Newsham commended the work of the officers and detectives who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Palmer-Ball, who prosecuted the case.
Department of Justice grants will provide law enforcement and prosecution assistance in AugustaRead the Press Release
AUGUSTA, GA: Police and prosecutors in Richmond County are receiving federal grants to improve safety in the community under the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods program.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office will receive $35,790 to purchase GPS trackers, surveillance cameras, provide video software upgrades, and purchase video cameras, while the Augusta Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office will receive $18,000 to purchase GreyKey software for unlocking and searching cell phones, said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
U.S. Attorney Christine announced the grant awards Thursday, Sept. 5, at the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
“Local law enforcement agencies and prosecutors are a vital part of the public safety network in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Christine. “We owe it to the law enforcement and prosecutors we rely upon to ensure that they have the best equipment and cutting-edge technology. These federal grants are a step toward fulfilling that obligation. We would like to congratulate Sheriff Richard Roundtree and District Attorney Natalie Paine for their successful applications for the Department of Justice grants, and thank the Project Safe Neighborhoods grant review committee for their service in reviewing the grant requests.”
Other Southern District recipients of this year’s grants include the Savannah Police Department, the Glynn County Police Department, and the Brunswick Police Department.
“We are very fortunate to have a U.S. Attorney like Bobby Christine who is committed to bringing resources to our district,” said Natalie Paine, District Attorney for the Augusta Judicial Circuit. “The equipment we are receiving will not only aide us tremendously in solving crimes, but it also will be used by any law enforcement agency in the Augusta Judicial Circuit, saving these agencies thousands of dollars. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with the Southern District of Georgia’s United States Attorney’s office.”
“The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office’s long partnership with the Southern District of Georgia’s United States Attorney’s Office has always benefited this community,” said Sheriff Richard Roundtree. “The Project Safe Neighborhood grants awarded to the Sheriff’s Office will go a long way in helping to reduce violent crime, which is my No. 1 goal for the Sheriff’s Office.”
The U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer. For example, it was under the umbrella of PSN that federal, state and law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office performed Operation 30906 to round up criminals on firearms charges in south Augusta, and Operation Gunsmoke in Georgia and South Carolina for prosecution on drugs, firearms and gang charges.
Delaware Pipe Bomber Sentenced to 105 Months of Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, United States Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that Mark Consiglio, 49, of Elsmere, Delaware was sentenced today in federal court in Delaware for his role in detonating a pipe bomb at a home in Elsmere, Delaware.
According to court documents and statements made in open court, Consiglio detonated a pipe bomb at his estranged wife’s residence in the early morning hours of March 12, 2018 before fleeing the scene. The pipe bomb was thrown at the living room window and bounced back after damaging the window. The pipe bomb then exploded in the front yard of the residence. Two occupants were home at the time of the pipe bomb explosion, one of whom was in the living room. Shrapnel from the explosion was found inside the living room.
After conducting a search warrant at Consiglio’s house, four more pipe bombs were recovered as well as a .38 caliber revolver; materials used to make a pipe bomb, including PVC, fuse wire, ball bearings, and gunpowder; a World War II-era flare launcher that had been modified to accept 9mm ammunition; and a book titled “CIA improvised sabotage devices” that was dog-eared to the page on “incendiary devices.” At the time he set off the pipe bomb, Consiglio was already facing state charges for threatening to kill his wife. The government’s court filings noted that Consiglio had a history of violence and threats of violence both toward his estranged wife and other members of the community.
In sentencing Consiglio to 105 months of prison, Judge Andrews noted Consiglio’s history of violence and stated, “During his entire adult life Defendant has threatened and assaulted others.” The statutory maximum sentence for the offense was 10 years of imprisonment.
U.S. Attorney Weiss commented, “The defendant’s brazen and violent act was intended to harm and terrorize. Only sheer luck prevented anyone from being injured or killed. We will continue to prosecute violent criminals to the fullest extent of the law in an effort to make our streets and communities safer. We are thankful to our federal and state partners for their hard work in investigating this case.”
“Elsmere residents deserve to live in safe neighborhoods, and we are committed to identifying, investigating, and incarcerating anyone who threatens the safety of these communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Rob Cekada. “We are proud to see that the thorough work done by our Special Agents and local and state investigative partners has resulted in bringing this violent offender to justice.”
This case was investigated by the ATF Wilmington Field Office in coordination with the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Elsmere Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office also thanks the New Castle County Police Department for its assistance. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander P. Ibrahim.
Defense Contractor Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Defraud U.S. Department of Defense, Conspiracy to Violate Arms Export Control Act, and Income Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
The owner of two defense contracting firms was sentenced to 36 months in prison for providing non-conforming parts for military equipment, illegally sharing sensitive technical information and evading income taxes Assistant Attorney General John Demers and U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced today.
Roger Sobrado, 49, of Marlton, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Noel L. Hillman to an information charging him with one count each of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to violate the Arms Export Control Act, and income tax evasion. Judge Hillman imposed the sentence on Sept. 4, 2019, in Camden federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Sobrado was the owner of two companies: Tico Manufacturing Inc. (TICO), a purported manufacturing company, and Military and Commercial Spares Inc. (MCS), a defense contracting company, both in Berlin Township, New Jersey.
Sobrado admitted that between January 2011 and December 2015, MCS obtained contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) by falsely claiming that the military parts it contracted to provide would be exactly as described and provided by authorized manufacturers. The DoD contracts specified that the parts were critical application items for military equipment, including fighter jets and helicopters. Sobrado recruited various family members to participate in the scheme by establishing companies that contracted with the DoD. Those companies also obtained contracts with the DoD by falsely claiming that the military parts they contracted to provide would be the exact product described and would be provided by authorized manufacturers. In fact, Sobrado used TICO to contract with local manufacturers to supply non-conforming parts to MCS and his family members’ companies at a significantly reduced cost. The non-conforming parts supplied by Sobrado were shipped from New Jersey to various DoD locations around the country.
DoD paid Sobrado and his family members’ companies for the non-conforming parts. The family members then paid Sobrado for the non-conforming parts. Sobrado admitted that he deposited some of his business receipts into his personal bank account and that he paid for personal items from his business account without telling his accountant. For tax years 2011 through 2014, Sobrado reported a total taxable income of $1,608,372. He failed to report additional income of $1,182,405, which caused a loss to the United States of $509,962.
Sobrado also admitted that in August 2005 and in November 2010 he submitted to the DoD a fraudulent application for access to export controlled drawings and technical data on behalf of a family member’s company. Sobrado acknowledged that access to the controlled drawings and technical data was limited to citizens of the United States and to those lawfully in the United States. Sobrado said he submitted the application because his family member told him that he needed access to drawings and that he could not get them because he was not a U.S. citizen.
Sobrado agreed that on July 28, 2011, and at various times between January 2013 and November 2015, the family member, who is illegally in the United States, accessed or downloaded hundreds of drawings that were sensitive in nature and that required special access.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Hillman sentenced Sobrado to three years of supervised release and ordered him to pay $8,043,977 in restitution.
Assistant Attorney General Demers and U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service Northeast Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Leigh-Alistair Barzey; special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Brian Michael; special agents of IRS - Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge John R. Tafur; special agents of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge John S. Grasso; and special agents of the U.S. Attorney’s Office with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Senior Trial Counsel Jason M. Richardson of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Camden and Trial Attorney David Recker of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.