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Tuesday 14 May 2019
Dubuque Felon Who Shot a Pedestrian Multiple Times Sentenced to Nine Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A Dubuque man who shot a pedestrian multiple times in August 2017 was sentenced May 13, 2019, to nine years in federal prison.
Jevonne Martell Coleman, age 33, from Dubuque, received the prison term after a November 21, 2018, guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
Evidence at the sentencing hearing showed that Coleman had a verbal altercation with a pedestrian on August 9, 2017. Later that evening, Coleman and a friend were sitting on a stoop on Locust Street when the pedestrian walked to their location. Coleman’s friend “cold cocked” the pedestrian and the pedestrian ran away. Coleman ran after the pedestrian, raised a firearm, and shot a number of times. The pedestrian suffered multiple gunshot wounds but survived. Coleman then hid the firearm in a bush and hid himself in a bluff. Officers discovered Coleman in short order. Coleman’s blood alcohol content was .315% according to a preliminary breath test.
Coleman was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Coleman was sentenced to 108 months’ imprisonment and fined $100. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
At sentencing, Judge Williams stressed the seriousness of the offense. Judge Williams found Coleman committed attempted murder, rejecting attempts by Coleman to justify the shooting, including Coleman’s invocation of Iowa’s “Stand Your Ground Law” at sentencing. Coleman has multiple prior convictions relating to controlled substances, including dealing drugs near a school, in Cook County, Illinois.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). 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.
Coleman is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tim Vavricek and investigated by the Dubuque Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 18-CR-1017.
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Department of Justice Reaches Agreement to Resolve Americans with Disabilities Act Investigation of West Virginia’s Children’s Mental Health SystemRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice today announced that it reached an agreement with the State of West Virginia to resolve its conclusion that there is reasonable cause to believe the State violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by unnecessarily institutionalizing children with serious emotional or behavioral disorders in residential treatment facilities instead of providing them in-home and community-based mental health services. Under the agreement, West Virginia will expand and improve in-home and community-based mental health services throughout the State to better meet children’s needs. The services include mobile crisis services, case management, therapeutic foster care, in-home therapy, and assertive community treatment. In addition, West Virginia will develop a plan to eliminate the unnecessary use of residential mental treatment facilities for children whom the State could serve in the community.
“This settlement will ensure that children are no longer unnecessarily institutionalized in residential treatment facilities far from family and friends,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “We commend the State for its willingness to make changes to better serve children with mental health needs in the community.”
“This is a substantial, landmark agreement. It has been a long time coming and its impact will be felt for generations to come,” said Mike Stuart, United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia. “When I became United States Attorney, this matter had suffered with no agreement for more than four years. A settlement looked unlikely and, at times, near impossible. Today’s agreement reflects a genuine, shared commitment to children and families by the Department of Justice and the State of West Virginia, as well as a spirit of good faith and mutual respect between myself and Secretary Crouch. Let there be no doubt, the real winners here today are West Virginia’s children and families.”
“Children need and deserve stability, and staying at home while receiving treatment offers that and so much more,” said Bill Powell, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia. “This issue is vitally important to the families in our district and our great state. This agreement will keep families closer and we are gratified that the State will be taking significant steps to improve the current situation. Our children are some of our most vulnerable citizens and this agreement is a step in the right direction for them and their families.”
Additional information about the Civil Rights Division and the Special Litigation Section, please visit www.justice.gov/crt/special-litigation-section. Those interested in finding out more about the ADA may visit www.ada.gov.
Department of Justice reaches agreement to resolve Americans with Disabilities Act investigation of West Virginia’s children’s mental health systemRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today announced that it reached an agreement with the State of West Virginia to resolve its conclusion that there is reasonable cause to believe the State violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by unnecessarily institutionalizing children with serious emotional or behavioral disorders in residential treatment facilities instead of providing them in-home and community-based mental health services. Under the agreement, West Virginia will expand and improve in-home and community-based mental health services throughout the State to better meet children’s needs. The services include mobile crisis services, case management, therapeutic foster care, in-home therapy, and assertive community treatment. In addition, West Virginia will develop a plan to eliminate the unnecessary use of residential mental treatment facilities for children whom the State could serve in the community.
“This settlement will ensure that children are no longer unnecessarily institutionalized in residential treatment facilities far from family and friends,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “We commend the State for its willingness to make changes to better serve children with mental health needs in the community.”
“This is a substantial, landmark agreement. It has been a long time coming and its impact will be felt for generations to come,” said Mike Stuart, United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia. “When I became United States Attorney, this matter had suffered with no agreement for more than four years. A settlement looked unlikely and, at times, near impossible. Today’s agreement reflects a genuine, shared commitment to children and families by the Department of Justice and the State of West Virginia, as well as a spirit of good faith and mutual respect between myself and Secretary Crouch. Let there be no doubt, the real winners here today are West Virginia’s children and families.”
“Children need and deserve stability, and staying at home while receiving treatment offers that and so much more,” said Bill Powell, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia. “This issue is vitally important to the families in our district and our great state. This agreement will keep families closer and we are gratified that the State will be taking significant steps to improve the current situation. Our children are some of our most vulnerable citizens and this agreement is a step in the right direction for them and their families.”
Additional information about the Civil Rights Division and the Special Litigation Section, please visit www.justice.gov/crt/special-litigation-section.
View Settlement Agreement here:
Settlement Agreement
Dallas-Based Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to More Than Seventeen Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in Pasco CountyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Susan C. Bucklew has sentenced Ruben Longoria, Jr. (31, Dallas, Texas), a/k/a “Scooter,” to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine from Texas into the Middle District of Florida.
Longoria had pleaded guilty on January 29, 2019.
According to court documents, Longoria was a supplier of methamphetamine in Dallas, Texas, who had planned to distribute at least three kilograms of methamphetamine to the Pasco County area. After several recorded conversations between Longoria and a cooperating defendant, the Drug Enforcement Administration obtained a search warrant for Longoria’s Dallas residence. During the execution of the warrant on September 19, 2018, law enforcement officers seized almost 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, as well as a trafficking amount of cocaine and a loaded firearm.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hardee County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from a task force in DEA’s Dallas Field Division, as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza.
Department of Justice Reaches Agreement to Resolve Americans with Disabilities Act Investigation of West Virginia’s Children’s Mental Health SystemRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today announced that it reached an agreement with the State of West Virginia to resolve its conclusion that there is reasonable cause to believe the State violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by unnecessarily institutionalizing children with serious emotional or behavioral disorders in residential treatment facilities instead of providing them in-home and community-based mental health services. Under the agreement, West Virginia will expand and improve in-home and community-based mental health services throughout the State to better meet children’s needs. The services include mobile crisis services, case management, therapeutic foster care, in-home therapy, and assertive community treatment. In addition, West Virginia will develop a plan to eliminate the unnecessary use of residential mental treatment facilities for children whom the State could serve in the community.
“This settlement will ensure that children are no longer unnecessarily institutionalized in residential treatment facilities far from family and friends,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “We commend the State for its willingness to make changes to better serve children with mental health needs in the community.”
“This is a substantial, landmark agreement. It has been a long time coming and its impact will be felt for generations to come,” said Mike Stuart, United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia. “When I became United States Attorney, this matter had suffered with no agreement for more than four years. A settlement looked unlikely and, at times, near impossible. Today’s agreement reflects a genuine, shared commitment to children and families by the Department of Justice and the State of West Virginia, as well as a spirit of good faith and mutual respect between myself and Secretary Crouch. Let there be no doubt, the real winners here today are West Virginia’s children and families.”
“Children need and deserve stability, and staying at home while receiving treatment offers that and so much more,” said Bill Powell, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia. “This issue is vitally important to the families in our district and our great state. This agreement will keep families closer and we are gratified that the State will be taking significant steps to improve the current situation. Our children are some of our most vulnerable citizens and this agreement is a step in the right direction for them and their families.”
Additional information about the Civil Rights Division and the Special Litigation Section, please visit www.justice.gov/crt/special-litigation-section. Those interested in finding out more about the ADA may visit www.ada.gov.
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NOTE: Settlement Agreement: https://www.justice.gov/archives/opa/press-release/file/1162536/. Fact Sheet: https://www.justice.gov/archives/opa/press-release/file/1162431/dl?inline=
Court Finds RM Broadcasting Must Register as a Foreign AgentRead the Press Release
U.S. District Court Judge Robin L. Rosenberg has ruled that a Florida-based company, RM Broadcasting LLC (RM Broadcasting), was acting as an agent of a foreign principal and must register as such under the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938 (FARA).
The Department of Justice contended in a civil counterclaim that RM Broadcasting has been acting as an agent of the the Federal State Unitary Enterprise Rossiya Segodnya International Information Agency (Rossiya Segodnya), a Russian state-owned media enterprise created by Vladimir Putin to advance Russian interests abroad. The litigation marked the first FARA civil enforcement action since 1991. Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers and U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan for the Southern District of Florida made the announcement.
“The American people have a right to know if a foreign flag waves behind speech broadcast in the United States,” said Assistant Attorney General Demers. “Our concern is not the content of the speech but providing transparency about the true identity of the speaker. This case shows that the Department can and will utilize all of its tools to bring transparency to efforts by foreign entities to influence the American public and our government, and demonstrates our renewed effort to enforce FARA rigorously.”
“While the right to free speech remains paramount to our democracy,” U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan said. “FARA ensures that the American public is fully cognizant of the true source of the messages broadcast in the United States. Armed with full information, Americans may properly evaluate the value of the speech they hear. As such, FARA is a fundamental tool in our continuing efforts to defend our democracy.”
In November 2017, RM Broadcasting and Rossiya Segodnya entered into a services agreement pursuant to which RM Broadcasting would provide for the broadcast of Rossiya Segodnya’s “Sputnik” radio programs on AM radio channel 1390 WZHF in the Washington, D.C. region. Under this agreement, RM Broadcasting could not alter Rossiya Segodnya’s radio programs in any way. As the services agreement established Rossiya Segodnya’s direction and control over RM Broadcasting, the FARA Unit of the National Security Division informed RM Broadcasting that it was acting as a publicity agent and an information-service employee of Rossiya Segodnya and was required to register as an agent of a foreign principal.
RM Broadcasting initiated the proceeding in the Southern District of Florida seeking a declaratory judgment that it did not have to register as an agent of a foreign principal. The Department responded by filing a counterclaim seeking an injunction to require RM Broadcasting to register. Earlier this week, the court granted the Department’s motion for judgment on the pleadings. A final judgment directing RM Broadcasting to register under FARA is expected.
This case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. Feeley and Trial Attorney Nicholas Hunter of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.
About FARA
The purpose of FARA is to protect the national defense, internal security, and foreign relations of the United States by requiring public disclosure by persons engaging in political activities and other activities for or on behalf of foreign governments, foreign political parties and other foreign principals so that the Government and the people of the United States may be informed of the identity of such persons and may apprise their statements and actions in the light of their associations and activities.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Convicted Drug Dealer on Supervised Release Trafficked Heroin, Fentanyl and Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of violating the federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Tory Bryant, 32, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Donetta W. Ambrose.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on March 13, 2018, Bryant possessed with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, a quantity of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, and a quantity of crack cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance. An undercover officer arranged to make a purchase of narcotics from Bryant, and when the officers attempted to arrest Bryant at the scene of the arranged transaction, Bryant fled. The officers recovered the narcotics that Bryant intended to sell to the undercover officers on the path of Bryant’s flight.
Judge Ambrose scheduled sentencing for September 19, 2019 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Also on that date, Judge Ambrose will sentence the defendant for violating the conditions of his supervised release by, among other ways, selling illegal narcotics. Bryant was on supervised release as a result of a previous federal conviction for heroin trafficking.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigations and Wilkinsburg Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Bryant.
Collinsville Man Indicted on Armed Robbery SpreeRead the Press Release
Larry Rhines, of Collinsville, Illinois, has been charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit robberies with firearms, two counts of business robbery, one count of bank robbery, and the use of firearms to commit each of those robberies, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Steven D. Weinhoeft, announced today. Rhines, 22, who is originally from St. Louis, made his initial appearance in federal court on May 9 and pleaded not guilty to the charges. He was ordered held without bond pending a July 9, 2019 jury trial.
According to the indictment, Rhines, along with unnamed others, were responsible for robbing at gunpoint the following businesses on the following dates:
• A Sprint store located in Fairview Heights, Illinois, on March 9, 2019;
• A Marco’s Pizza located in Collinsville, Illinois on March 28, 2019; and
• A GCS Credit Union located in Collinsville, Illinois, on March 30, 2019.
Rhines and two others – Jalon Moore, 22, and Garry Johnson, 22, both of St. Louis – were recently indicted in the Eastern District of Missouri for similar crimes arising from a string of armed robberies of the following businesses in St. Louis:
• The Mack Bar and Grill on January 9, 2019;
• A Jimmy John’s on February 9, 2019;
• A Subway restaurant on February 17, 2019;
• A Panda Express on March 18, 2019; and
• A Sprint store on March 21, 2019.
If convicted of all charges, Rhines could be facing decades in prison. The conspiracy charge and individual armed robbery counts each carry a 20-year maximum term of imprisonment. Using a firearm in furtherance of the robberies carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years and is punishable by as much as life imprisonment, which must ordered to run consecutively to any other sentence imposed.
An indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Saint Louis Metropolitan Police Department, and the Saint Louis County Police Department, in coordination with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois, the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Springfield, and the Collinsville and Fairview Heights Police Departments.
Cleveland man indicted for having unlicensed machine gunRead the Press Release
A Cleveland man was indicted in federal court for having an unlicensed machine gun.
Toriano A. Leaks, Jr., 20, was indicted on two counts of illegal possession of a machine gun.
Leaks on April 10 possessed a Glock .40-caliber that had been modified into a machine gun. He also possessed a select fire auto-sear, which is used exclusively for converting a weapon into a machine gun, according to the indictment.
Leak also possessed 21 rounds of ammunition and three magazines, with capacities of 15, 20 and 30 rounds of ammunition, according to court documents.
The investigation is ongoing.
“Adding this specific part to a handgun to make it fully automatic makes that firearm illegal and puts the public at risk,” U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman said. “We will work with our law enforcement partners to prosecute all firearms violations, and especially to stop the flow of these parts into the country.”
“The possession of illegal firearms is a violation of federal law and a threat to public safety,” said Jonathan T. McPherson, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Columbus Field Division. “ATF will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to protect our communities.”
Bedford Police Chief Martin Stemple said: “In reference to the Toriano Leaks arrest and indictment: Officer Stanton while patrolling the City of Bedford, observed a vehicle with some seemingly minor traffic violations, and conducted a traffic stop. Through some keen observations and excellent police work, Officer Stanton developed a routine traffic stop into an arrest of a dangerous individual. Because of the Officer's relentless determination, the individual's true identity was learned, a weapon and ammunition along with narcotics were all confiscated. The weapon was modified to fire fully automatic, and was found under the driver's seat, fully loaded with high-capacity magazines. This incident just goes to show the dangers our officers face, even on something that appears to start out as a minor traffic violation.”
“Keeping weapons out of the wrong hands is critical to keeping our communities safe and to prevent gun violence, we are committed to remaining vigilant to ensure firearms and any firearm parts are acquired while abiding federal laws,” said HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Angie Salazar.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN was reinvigorated in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
If convicted, the defendant's sentence will be determined by the Court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant's prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bedford Police Department Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Zarzycki.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The burden of proof is always on the government to prove a defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Clarion Man Sentenced for Possessing Stolen MailRead the Press Release
A Clarion man who possessed stolen mail was sentenced May 13, 2019, to three years’ federal probation. Timothy Russell VanZweden, age 50, formerly from Belmond, Iowa, was sentenced after a November 9, 2018, guilty plea to one count of possession of stolen mail.
In a plea agreement, VanZweden admitted that he was residing with his wife in Belmond, Iowa, in November 2017. VanZweden’s wife was a U.S. Mail carrier. After receiving information that VanZweden was discarding a large trash bag in a dumpster outside a Clarion restaurant, in which mail was found, officers executed a search warrant at VanZweden’s home on November 17, 2017, and discovered five letters taken from his wife’s mail route in the home’s garbage. In VanZweden’s truck, officers found a counterfeit U.S. Postal Service “arrow key,” a special key used to unlock receptacles for U.S. Mail.
Less than two weeks later, on November 28, 2017, officers executed another search warrant at VanZweden’s home and found more stolen mail in the home’s garage. VanZweden admitted throwing a large garbage bag into the dumpster in Clarion, Iowa. He also admitted he burglarized two residences on his wife’s mail route in Belmond, Iowa, because the homeowners were “beautiful people” for whom everything in life came easily. VanZweden stated “one lady” was snotty to him when he walked through her grass, and the other lady had looked down upon him when he said “hi” to her in the pharmacy.
VanZweden was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. VanZweden was sentenced to three years’ probation.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tim Vavricek and investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 18-CR-3042.
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Challis Man Admits Damaging a Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Archaeological Site; Ordered to Pay RestitutionRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Alan M. Thorkelson, 38, of Challis, Idaho, pleaded guilty last month to the unauthorized excavation of the Devil Canyon Archaeological Site in Challis, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced. Thorkelson was sentenced on April 29, 2019, by U.S. District Judge David C. Nye to pay $2,000 in restitution. At his sentencing hearing, Thorkelson apologized to the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes for the damaged site.
According to court records, in October 2017, Thorkelson was caught by law enforcement digging at a Shoshone-Bannock tribal cultural site that was being monitored due to previous graffiti issues.
“These archeological resources are of particular significance to tribal communities. The looting of these resources is especially harmful,” said Mary D’Aversa, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Idaho Falls District Manager. “We aggressively pursue those individuals who commit these violations of law.”
“My office is dedicated to protecting archaeological resources on public and tribal lands,” U.S. Attorney Davis said. “I commend the BLM and the Custer County Sheriff’s Office for their work on this important case.”
The Archaeological Resources Protection Act protects archaeological resources on public and Indian lands. It provides felony-level penalties for unauthorized excavation, removal, damage, alteration or defacement of any archaeological resource, which is defined as material remains of past human life or activities that are at least 100 years old.
This case was investigated by the BLM with the assistance of the Custer County Sheriff’s Office. The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes fully supported its prosecution.
If you have questions or would like more information regarding regulations pertaining to cultural resources, please contact the BLM Idaho Falls District Office at (208) 524-7500.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Have Sex with A 12-Year-Old ChildRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051
ROCHESTER, N.Y.- U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Gabriel Murillo, 44, of San Bernadino County, California, pleaded guilty to attempted online enticement of a minor before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford. The charge carries a minimum prison sentence of 10 years, a maximum of life, a lifetime period of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that between April 2018 and February 2019, Murillo engaged in sexually explicit online conversations with an individual who he believed was a 12 year old girl living in upstate New York. The defendant attempted to groom the child by sending her pornography, and despite acknowledging her age, requested that she meet with him for sex. On February 16, 2019, Murillo flew from Los Angeles, CA to Rochester, NY in order to have sex with the child. Unbeknownst to the defendant, the child was actually an undercover New York State Police Investigator.
Murillo was apprehended while disembarking a plane at the Greater Rochester International Airport on February 16, 2019, by members of the New York State Police, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Air Marshal Service.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eric Laughton; Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kelly; and the Federal Air Marshal Service, under the direction of Supervisory Air Marshal-in-Charge William Hall.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 6, 2019, before Judge Wolford.
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Buffalo Man Sentenced on Heroin ChargeRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that a Rashawn Crule, 43, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, was sentenced to serve 108 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Tokash, who handled the case, stated that between June 2013 and September 2015, the defendant possessed with intent to distribute and distributed various illegal narcotics including kilograms of heroin, as well as fentanyl, crack cocaine and cocaine. Crule volunteered at the Saunders Community Center where DEA agents observed him leaving the center to drive to his stash house, and return to make sales. The defendant also maintained a drug-involved premises at 98 Gillette Avenue in Buffalo for the purpose of manufacturing, distributing and using these illegal narcotics. Crule also possessed a 9mm handgun.
Crule made two sales of heroin to an individual working with the DEA. On November 2, 2015, investigators executed a search warrant and seized $74,878 in U.S. currency and a 14 karat white gold necklace form the defendant’s residence at 22 Homer Avenue in Buffalo, which represented drug trafficking proceeds. After his arrest, the defendant told agents that he previously received three kilograms of heroin from co-defendant Troy Gillon and that he could readily get five more kilograms for distribution. A second search warrant was executed at 98 Gillette Street in Buffalo where investigators seized heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine, and cocaine. A firearm and 11 rounds of ammunition were also seized.
Troy Gillon was convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ray Donovan, New York Field Division; the New York State Police Community Narcotics Enforcement Team (CNET), under the direction of Detail Commander Mary Clark and Lieutenant Kevin Reyes, CNET West Commander; and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Unit, under the direction of Brian Manaher, Director, Marine Operations.
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Bible-Wielding Drug Dealer Sentenced to 23 Years on Federal Gun and Drug ConvictionsRead the Press Release
DENVER – Miguel Antonio Garcia, age 40, of Denver, was sentenced to 280 months (23.3 years) in prison on May 10, 2019, by U.S. District Court Judge Raymond P. Moore, announced U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn and ATF Denver Special Agent in Charge David Booth. Following the defendant’s prison term, he will serve an additional five years on supervised release.
Garcia was first charged by criminal complaint on July 13, 2018, and was subsequently charged by indictment on July 26, 2018. A superseding indictment was filed on January 10, 2019. On February 6, 2019, he was found guilty, following a three-day jury trial, of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The jury deliberated for an hour and a half before returning its verdicts.
According to court documents, as well as facts presented during trial, on July 11, 2018, an individual called 911 claiming that Garcia was walking the streets of Denver with a backpack and a bible and had asked the caller for a drink. The 911 caller claimed he invited the defendant up to his apartment and gave him some water. The defendant pulled a gun from inside his waistband, and another from inside a bible case. The defendant then fled the scene when the individual called 911. Within minutes, the defendant was located on the same block carrying a bible, but without the backpack or the two guns. Soon thereafter, the backpack was recovered under a nearby tree. It contained a loaded 10mm semi-automatic handgun, a loaded 9mm semi-automatic handgun, approximately 360 grams (0.79 pounds) of methamphetamine, two scales, and several empty plastic baggies. The backpack also contained a motel room key sleeve which matched a motel key found in Garcia’s pocket and the backplate of a cellphone which matched the phone in Garcia’s pocket. Additionally, the bible Garcia had at the time of his arrest contained indentation marks on the cover and the case which matched the 10mm handgun in the backpack.
“Dangerous drug dealers need to be removed from our community,” said U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn. “This defendant will now go to jail for the next twenty-three years, ensuring that he is off the streets and that our community is safer as a direct result. I commend the hard work of the ATF, as well as our prosecutors in ensuring justice was achieved.”
“Garcia was a threat to the community, rewarding a stranger’s goodwill with a threat of violence,” said ATF Denver Special Agent in Charge David Booth. “ATF will continue to use every resource available to pursue violent criminals and ensure our communities are safe.”
This matter was investigated by the ATF and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter McNeilly and Conor Flanigan.
CASE NUMBER: 18-cr-00363
Attorney General William P. Barr Announces Appointment of Claire Murray as Principal Deputy Associate Attorney GeneralRead the Press Release
Attorney General William P. Barr issued the following statement:
“All who work with Claire Murray are impressed with her sharp intelligence, thoughtfulness, and work ethic. During her time at Kirkland & Ellis, she rose to become a partner within just two years of joining the firm. She also has a remarkable record of public service, including serving as an Associate White House Counsel, as a clerk for two of today's Supreme Court justices, and in both appellate and line prosecutor roles at the Department of Justice. I want to thank Jesse Panuccio for his hard work over these past two years as Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General, and I am pleased to appoint Claire to succeed him.”
Appleton Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on May 10, 2019, Seth M. Rector (age: 37) was sentenced by the Honorable Chief Judge William C. Griesbach to two years in prison and eight years supervised release following his guilty plea to possession of child pornography, contrary to 18 U.S.C. Sections 2252A. As part of his sentence, Rector must also comply with sex offender registry requirements. Those requirements mandate Rector to advise registry officials where he is living, working or attending school.
According to court documents, beginning in about November 2016, Rector obtained adult and child pornography via the BitTorrent network. Law enforcement observed that Rector was sharing files with names suggestive of child pornography. On September 26, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Rector’s residence. Two desk top computers were seized and later searched. The two computers contained a total of 573 child pornography image files as well as BitTorrent file sharing software. In imposing his sentence, Judge Griesbach stressed the serious nature of the offense, including the horrific nature of the images as well as the length of time over which he obtained the images.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William Roach, who was assisted by Victim Witness Specialist Jan Klika.
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Albany Felon Admits Unlawful Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Juan A. Torres, age 36, of Albany, pled guilty today to unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition as a felon.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and James N. Hendricks, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Torres admitted that on July 13, 2018, he sold a Kel-Tec 9 millimeter pistol, loaded with four rounds of Luger ammunition, in Schenectady County, New York. Torres had two felony convictions at the time.
Torres, who is in custody, faces up to 10 years in prison, and up to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release, when he is sentenced on September 17, 2019 by Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case was investigated by the FBI and its Capital District Safe Streets Gang Task Force, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Barnett.
Aberdeen Physician Sentenced for Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a physician working in Aberdeen, South Dakota, convicted of distributing oxycodone, was sentenced on May 14, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann.
Troy Edward Adolfson, age 47, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a fine of $20,000, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Adolfson was indicted for Distribution of a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on June 6, 2018. He pled guilty on November 14, 2018.
While working at a hospital in Aberdeen, Adolfson wrote prescriptions for oxycodone to others, who filled the prescriptions and gave the pills to Adolfson. He gave these people some of the oxycodone and a cash “tip” for filling the prescriptions. He illegally prescribed approximately 1,400 pills of oxycodone in this manner.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Adolfson was ordered to report on August 13, 2019, to begin serving his sentence.
Monday 13 May 2019
Yankton Woman Charged with Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Yankton, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance.
Lorraine Marie Prairie Chicken, age 34, was indicted on May 8, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on May 10, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $10,000,000 fine, life of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that beginning on an unknown date and continuing until on or about October 17, 2018, Prairie Chicken knowingly and intentionally combined, conspired, confederated, and agreed with others, to distribute a mixture and substance containing at least 500 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
The charge is merely an accusation and Prairie Chicken is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga is prosecuting the case.
Prairie Chicken was released on bond pending trial, which has not been set.
Wexford Cleaning Company Owner Pleads Guilty to Evading Personal and Business TaxesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Sewickley, PA, has entered a plea of guilty to charges of tax evasion in Federal Court in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
According to the information presented to the court, Mark Stanford, the owner of Y Clean in Wexford, PA, evaded payment of both his personal income taxes and the employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes for employees that he should have paid by virtue of owning and operating his cleaning business during the period 2009 through 2013 (for the tax years 2008 through 2012). According to the information upon which Mr. Stanford’s plea was offered, he made large personal expenditures (such as two Bentley automobiles) rather than pay the taxes he knew were due and owing both for himself and for his employees. He also was shown to have filed a false document with the IRS regarding his personal and business financial situation. The document was false in that it failed to identify, among other things, the two Bentley automobiles on his list of assets and it failed to identify a bank account that he caused to be opened, which identified his son as the principal account holder, which he used to move money through that he took from his business and paid to himself in cash.
U.S. District Judge Cathy Bissoon set sentencing for September 4th, 2019, at 2:15 pm. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 (or both) for each tax evasion count. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
Waterbury Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Loaded HandgunRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging ANTHONY MORALES, 29, of Waterbury, with possession of a firearm a by a convicted felon.
The indictment was returned on May 7, 2019, and Morales was arrested today. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven and entered a plea of not guilty to the offense. He is detained pending a detention hearing that is scheduled for May 17 at 10:30 a.m.
As alleged in the indictment, on January 19, 2019, Morales possessed a Taurus, Model 85, .38 caliber revolver loaded with five rounds of ammunition, and an additional 13 rounds of loose ammunition. Prior to that date, Morales had been convicted of state robbery, larceny, assault and narcotics offenses.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
If convicted of the charge, Morales faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives and the Waterbury Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
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.
Vermont Man Sentenced to 48 Months for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
CONCORD – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Nicholas J. Patten, 27, of Williston, Vermont was sentenced to 48 months in prison for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm and ammunition by an unlawful user of a controlled substance.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 11, 2018, a New London police officer stopped to assist a motorist and observed the defendant slumped down in the driver’s seat. The officer also observed several needles, three rubber tourniquets, a syringe, and white powder on the defendant’s jeans and on the center console of the vehicle. The defendant woke up and began to thrash about the vehicle screaming things like “Help,” “I’m drowning,” and “I’m trapped.” The defendant later admitted that he used cocaine and stated that he did not know what he was on. The police later executed a search warrant on the vehicle and found approximately 191.8 grams of cocaine. The police also found $4420 in cash and a loaded Smith and Wesson 9 millimeter pistol, as well as fentanyl, oxycodone, and other smaller amounts of cocaine within the vehicle.
Patten previously pleaded on January 29, 2019.
“Drugs and guns are a potentially deadly combination,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Armed drug traffickers present a heightened risk to the public. Through Project Safe Neighborhoods, we are working to ensure that criminals who possess guns are prosecuted and incarcerated.”
The matter was investigated by the New London Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Debra M. Walsh prosecuted the case.
The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which is a federally-funded program intended to reduce gun violence through law enforcement training, public education, and aggressive law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute gun-related crimes.
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United States Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr. Recognizes Police Week and Thanks All Law Enforcement Officers Serving Iowa CommunitiesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr., recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.
In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
“During Police Week, our nation takes time to specifically recognize the vital contributions of law enforcement officers to society. We recognize their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe,” said United States Attorney Deegan. “Every time an officer goes on duty, that officer accepts personal risk that few in our society face. The United States Attorney’s Office salutes and thanks our law enforcement partners for all they do.”
To help recognize Police Week, U.S. Attorney Deegan is scheduled to attend a Police Memorial Ceremony in Waterloo on May 15, 2019, and the Sioux City Police Department’s Spring Awards and Promotions Ceremony on May 16, 2019. On May 11, 2019, Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Reinert attended the Annual Cedar Rapids Police Department Awards Ceremony.
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018. Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2018 https://ucr.fbi.gov/leoka/2018/ released this week by the FBI.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019. No tickets are required and everyone is welcome. For additional information please call 202-737-3400.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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US Attorney Blader Recognizes Law Enforcement During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. – United States Attorney Scott C. Blader recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed this week.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
“During Police Week, our nation celebrates law enforcement officers for their dedication to keeping our communities safe, and recognizes those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Mr. Blader, the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin. “I want to acknowledge the work performed by these men and women and let them know they have our unwavering support and appreciation.”
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018, including two officers in Wisconsin – Officers Charles G. Irvine, Jr., and Michael J. Michalski of the Milwaukee Police Department. Officer Irvine died on June 7, 2018, and Officer Michalski died on July 25, 2018. The Milwaukee Police Department also suffered the loss of Officer Matthew J. Rittner on February 6, 2019.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil this evening. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019. For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org. and to access the FBI’s 2018 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov .
U.S. Attorney’s Office Recognizes Men and Women in Law Enforcement During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.
In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
"This week, we pause to honor and remember our men and women in law enforcement who keep our citizens and our communities safe. Their work is not just a job but more importantly a calling – to serve their fellow man, to protect the vulnerable, and to uphold the law. Some have even given their lives so that we may be safe. While we can never fully repay them for their sacrifice, we will always honor, remember and respect them for their service. This week, let us all do our part in showing our law enforcement our unwavering support and appreciation," said U.S. Attorney Hurst.
U.S. Attorney Hurst will be the keynote speaker for the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Fallen Officer Memorial Service on Wednesday, May 15th at the MDWFP Headquarters in Jackson.
The 9th annual Fallen Officers’ Candlelight Vigil, sponsored by the Mississippi Association of Chiefs of Police, will be held on Wednesday, May 16th, at 6:30 p.m., to honor our fallen heroes. The Vigil will take place at the State Capitol Mall between the Sillers and Gartin Justice Buildings on High Street in Jackson.
The U.S. Attorney’s National Police Week Fun Run will take place on Thursday, May 16, at 6:00 p.m. The public is invited to join us for a 3-mile Fun Run/Walk which will begin and end at Buffalo Wild Wings in Flowood.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney's Office Joins in Recognizing National Police Week, May 12-18, 2019Read the Press Release
PORTLAND—Billy J. Williams, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement officers on the occasion of National Police Week.
The District of Oregon had one line-of-duty death in 2018. On Friday, March 2, 2018, Officer Malcus Williams, a 21-year veteran of the Ashland Police Department, passed away after suffering a major medical event while on the scene of a call. Officer Williams is survived by his wife, Ona, and three daughters, Savannah, Georgia and Brooklyn, and his sisters Cindy and Amy. In a ceremony on May 7, 2019, Officer Williams was added to Oregon’s Fallen Law Enforcement Memorial at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem, Oregon.
“National Police Week offers a time to honor the courage and commitment shown by law enforcement officers here in the District of Oregon and across the nation. One officer death is too many,” said U.S. Attorney Williams. “In 2018, we lost Officer Malcus Williams of the Ashland Police Department. As his family and colleagues know well, Officer Williams was a selfless public servant who embodied every noble trait his fellow citizens look for in a police officer. He was courageous, professional, hardworking and steadfastly dedicated to his community.”
According to statistics collected by the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018 – a 14 percent increase from 2017 when 93 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents.
For comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks and selected assaults resulting in injury, please see the 2018 edition of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, released this week.
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide were formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019.
No tickets are required to attend the vigil and everyone is welcome. For additional information, please call 202-737-3400. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney recognizes police weekRead the Press Release
WHEELING - U.S. Attorney Bill Powell recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.
In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which President Kennedy signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
“We honor all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Our law enforcement officers put themselves at risk every day—for the rest of us. We honor them and their families this week and thank them for all of their sacrifices,” said Powell.
As a part of honoring law enforcement during this important week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will attend the Wheeling Police Department’s Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony on Wednesday, May 15 at Wheeling’s Heritage Port.
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018. None of those deaths occurred in the Northern District of West Virginia.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2018 https://ucr.fbi.gov/leoka/2018/ released this week by the FBI.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.U.S. Attorney Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Duane (DAK) Kees recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.
In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
U.S. Attorney Kees stated, “The Western District of Arkansas is blessed to have the finest law enforcement men and women serving at all levels. As the U.S. Attorney, it is a sincere honor to celebrate the achievements, dedication and sacrifices of these brave men and women. We should never forget that each day when they go to work, they put their lives on the line for us. They do it, not for the pay and not for the applause, but out of service for their fellow man. I pray we never take for granted all that they do and that they know how much they are truly appreciated.”
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2018 https://ucr.fbi.gov/leoka/2018/ released this week by the FBI.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019. No tickets are required and everyone is welcome. For additional information please call 202-737-3400.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.S. Attorney Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - U.S. Attorney David J. Freed recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.
In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed,
declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
“For more than 20 years as a prosecutor, I have had the daily privilege to witness the sacrifice, dedication, loyalty and commitment of the men and women serving our communities as police,” said U.S. Attorney Freed. “From the most high profile murder case to a lost dog or stolen bicycle, our police are there when we need them. No questions asked. As the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, I want to acknowledge the work performed by federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, who often face uncertain and dangerous situations without expectation of thanks – because it is their sworn duty. We want them to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation.”
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018, an increase from 94 officers in 2017.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2018 https://ucr.fbi.gov/leoka/2018/ released this week by the FBI.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019. No tickets are required and everyone is welcome. For additional information, please call 202-737-3400.
One Middle District of Pennsylvania officer was added this year: Alex I. Sable, York City Police Officer.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS— U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.
In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
U.S. Attorney Strasser said, “During Police Week, our nation celebrates the selfless contributions from our brave men and women in law enforcement from around the country, and especially in the Eastern District of Louisiana, by recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe. As the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana, I want to acknowledge the work performed by federal, state, and local law enforcement and the choice made by them to protect and serve with full knowledge that they could one day find themselves facing dangerous situations. We want them and their families to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation. This week let us as a community take some time to reflect and honor the fallen and also those who continue to dutifully serve the public.”
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018, including (1) one officer here in the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2018 https://ucr.fbi.gov/leoka/2018/ released this week by the FBI.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019. No tickets are required and everyone is welcome. For additional information please call 202-737-3400.
One Eastern District of Louisiana officer’s name was added this year. On November 17, 2018, Slidell Louisiana Police Department Officer Jason M. Seals died from injuries sustained on September 25, 2018 when he was involved in an on-duty motorcycle accident while escorting a funeral procession.
The Annual Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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U.S. Attorney Minkler recognizes law enforcement during National Police WeekRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS – U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana Josh J. Minkler recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, and commented on the FBI's 2018 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report.
“Today marks the beginning of National Police Week, a time for citizens alike to take pause and commemorate the service and sacrifices the men and women in blue offer each and every day,” said Josh J. Minkler, United States Attorney. “As a career federal prosecutor, I am honored to recognize the spirit and the work police officers engage in each day. On behalf of the Justice Department, I thank not only the officers, but their families who walk beside them in service to our communities. In tribute to them, we are proud to announce the launch of the USAO-SDIN’s Spotlight on the Blue Campaign.”
In recognition of our distinguished law enforcement officers we honor their service and sacrifice during National Police week observed May 12, 2019-May 19 2019. This year, the USAO-SDIN honors the week and work with the launch of the USAO-SDIN’s Spotlight on the Blue Campaign. Please join us in recognizing this important commemoration and the dedication of our devoted law enforcement officers. The campaign will launch on Twitter @: SDINnews and Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/usaosdin/. Follow us!
In October 1962, Congress passed and President Kennedy signed a joint resolution declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
During Police Week, which is observed from Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31th Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019 held on the National Mall between 7th and 12th Streets in Washington, D.C. According to statistics collected by the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty in 2018. Of these, 55 law enforcement officers were feloniously killed and 51 were killed accidentally.
The D.C. vigil includes musical tributes, special remarks and reading of 371 names as they are dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Register for live webcast at www.nleomf.org/vigil*. So that people across the country can experience this unique.
For a complete schedule of National Police Week events in Washington, DC, visit www.LawMemorial.org/PoliceWeek.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
To access the FBI's 2018 Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted report, please visit www.fbi.gov.
* Unlinked URLs no longer exist
U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey Recognizes Police WeekRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - United States Attorney J. Douglas Overbey recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12, to Saturday, May 18, 2019.
The U.S. Attorney’s office held the annual Gatlinburg Law Enforcement Conference last week, which opened with a moving tribute to fallen officers not only in the Eastern District of Tennessee but also for each of the 17 cosponsoring U.S. Attorney’s districts. Included in this tribute were Chattanooga Police Officer Nicholas Scott Grainger, EOW February 24, 2019; and, Sergeant Steve Hinkle with the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office, EOW February 26, 2018. Both were valued members of the law enforcement community in the Eastern District of Tennessee.
In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
“National Police Week is a time for all of us to reflect upon and celebrate the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment in keeping our communities safe. As the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Tennessee, I want to thank all of our federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers, who often face uncertain and dangerous situations, and ensure them that they have the unwavering support and appreciation from the U.S. Attorney’s office,” said U.S. Attorney Overbey.
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018.
Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2018 https://ucr.fbi.gov/leoka/2018/ released this week by the FBI.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019. No tickets are required, and everyone is welcome. For additional information please call 202-737-3400.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
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U.S. Attorney Harrington Recognizes Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Spokane – Joseph H. Harrington, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.
In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
United States Attorney Harrington said “During Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe. As the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, I want to acknowledge the work performed by federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, who often face uncertain and dangerous situations without question and without expectation of thanks. We want them to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation.”
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers nationwide were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018. The names of all 106 fallen officers will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
Spokane previously hosted two events to honor law enforcement officers in the State of Washington who were killed or died in the line of duty last week: the Annual Candlelight Ceremony (held on Monday, May 6th) and the 32nd Annual Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Ceremony (held on Tuesday, May 7th).
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit: www.policeweek.org
U.S. Attorney Dunavant Recognizes Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice during National Police WeekRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.
In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
U.S. Attorney Dunavant said, "During Police week, our nation celebrates the contribution of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe. As the United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, I want to acknowledge the work performed by federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement, who often face uncertain and dangerous situations without question and without expectation of thanks. We want them to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation."
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.
U.s. Attorney Recognizes National Police Week - May 12-18, 2019Read the Press Release
U.S. ATTORNEY RECOGNIZES NATIONAL POLICE WEEK
May 12-18, 2019
U.S. Attorney Christina E. Nolan and members of her office will honor the service and sacrifice of federal, state and local law enforcement on the occasion of National Police Week, which occurs this year from Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.During Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in protecting our communities. In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
U.S. Attorney Nolan stated: “As the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont, I want to acknowledge the work performed by federal, state and local law enforcement, who often face uncertain and dangerous situations without question and without expectation of thanks. We want them to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation. We are so very fortunate to live in the Green Mountain State. Vermont is an extraordinarily attractive place to reside, and that is due, in no small part, to the tireless efforts of officers at all levels of law enforcement to keep us safe. Quietly and consistently, they put themselves in harm’s way to protect their communities. They make decisions every day to stand on the front lines of our campaigns to combat violence, unlawful firearms activity, drug trafficking, and other dangerous crime. This is a tremendous daily sacrifice – on the part of officers, to be sure – but also on the part of their families and loved ones, who support them and hope for their safe return home each day. We must never take for granted their sacrifices and their heroic work.”
This week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will hold its annual Law Enforcement Awards Ceremony to recognize and celebrate the exceptional work of Vermont investigators and officers. With these awards, we honor the outstanding work of law enforcement officers at all levels in the pursuit of justice and in support of the mission of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018. Comprehensive data tables about these incidents and brief narratives describing the fatal attacks are included in the sections of Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted, 2018 https://ucr.fbi.gov/leoka/2018/ released this week by the FBI. Although there were a number of injuries in the line of duty, thankfully Vermont did not lose an officer last year.
The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31stAnnual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019. No tickets are required and everyone is welcome. For additional information please call 202-737-3400.
The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.
The U.S. Attorney will attend a ceremony to honor Vermont’s fallen officers on Friday, May 17th at 2:00pm at the Vermont Police Academy. Since 1814, Vermont has lost 36 officers in the line of duty. The bravery and selflessness of these officers cost them their lives. They made this ultimate sacrifice so that Vermonters would be safer. This ceremony is open to the public.
For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.Two Sentenced in Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI – Two of four men who admitted to being members of a Fall River based conspiracy that trafficked cocaine and crack cocaine into Newport were sentenced today to federal prison. The four men were arrested during a Project Safe Neighborhoods investigation by Newport Police in October 2017, when detectives interrupted a scheduled delivery of cocaine in the parking lot of the then Newport Grand casino.
Jose Martinez-Hernandez, 30, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith to 36 months in prison to be followed by 3 years supervised release. Martinez-Hernandez pleaded guilty on May 16, 2018, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Jorge L. Pizzaro, aka “Chino”, 21, was sentenced by Chief Judge William E. Smith to 63 months in prison to be followed by 3 years supervised release. Pizzaro pleaded guilty on July 12, 2018, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The sentences are announced by United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman, Newport Police Chief Gary T. Silva, and Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Kelly D. Brady.
According to court documents and information presented to the Court, Newport Police detectives learned of a scheduled delivery of 14 grams of cocaine for $600, to occur on October 30, 2017. The delivery was to take place in the parking lot of the then Newport Grand casino. At the time of the scheduled delivery, two vehicles arrived in tandem. Newport Police detectives surrounded the vehicles and detained the occupants. Martinez-Hernandez was found to be carrying a loaded firearm and 11 grams of cocaine. A search of the vehicles and their occupants resulted in the additional seizure of two loaded firearms, 14 grams of cocaine, and 37 individual bags of crack cocaine. Pizzaro was found to be in possession of 37 individual bags of crack cocaine. Under his seat was a loaded firearm.
Also arrested and later charged by way of a federal indictment were Manuel C. Coradin, 38, of Cranston, and Antonio Oquendo Cancel, aka “Loco,” 30, of Fall River.
Coradin pleaded guilty on November 30, 2018, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine. He was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith on March 8, 2019, to 36 months in federal prison to be followed by 3 years supervised release.
Cancel pleaded guilty on April 4, 2019, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He is scheduled to be sentenced by Chief Judge William E. Smith on July 11, 2019.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra R. Hebert.
Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted the Newport Police Department and the United States Attorney’s Office in preparing this Project Safe Neighborhoods case for prosecution.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (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.
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Two Parents in College Admission Case Plead GuiltyRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Two California parents charged in the college admissions case pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston.
Felicity Huffman, 56, and Devin Sloane, 53, both of Los Angeles, Calif., pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and honest services mail fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani scheduled sentencing for Sept. 13 and Sept. 10, 2019, respectively.
As set forth in the charging documents, Huffman pleaded guilty to conspiring to pay Rick Singer $15,000 to participate in the college entrance exam scheme for her oldest daughter. According to the terms of the plea agreement, the government will recommend a sentence at the low end of the Guidelines sentencing range, one year of supervised release, a fine of $20,000, restitution and forfeiture.
Sloane pleaded guilty to conspiring to pay Singer $250,000 to participate in the college recruitment scheme for his oldest son. According to the terms of the plea agreement, the government will recommend a sentence of one year and one day in prison, one year of supervised release, a fine of $75,000, restitution and forfeiture.
Case information, including the status of each defendant, charging documents and plea agreements are available here: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ma/investigations-college-admissions-and-testing-bribery-scheme.
The charge of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and honest services mail fraud provides for a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; and Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric S. Rosen, Justin D. O’Connell, Leslie A. Wright, and Kristen A. Kearney of Lelling’s Securities and Financial Fraud Unit are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the court documents are allegations and the remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Men Charged with Smuggling Oxycodone Pills into Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Donald Barlow, age 58, of Bedford, Virginia and his son, Matthew Barlow, age 28, an inmate at Allenwood Low Security Correctional Institution (LSCI), was charged by criminal information on May 9, 2019, with conspiracy to smuggle Oxycodone pills into LSCI in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania.
According to U.S. Attorney David J. Freed, the criminal information alleges that from June 2014 through August 30, 2014, Donald Barlow and Matthew Barlow made coded references during prison electronic mail exchanges while making plans to smuggle 9.6 Oxycodone pills into the prison hidden inside balloons. Donald Barlow traveled from Virginia to LSCI and delivered, and attempted to deliver the Oxycodone pills to Matthew Barlow in the prison visiting room.
The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the investigative staff at the LSCI. Assistant U.S. Attorney George J. Rocktashel prosecuted the case.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law included imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Two Individuals Plead Guilty to Trafficking over 60 Pounds of Methamphetamine and HeroinRead the Press Release
Memphis, TN – Two individuals pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin and methamphetamine and distribution of heroin and methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the plea today.
According to information presented in court, on October 22, 2018, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration, conducted an operation to capture a drug trafficking organization responsible for bringing massive quantities of methamphetamine and heroin to the Memphis area. On that date, law enforcement determined the location of a large-scale drug transaction taking place in Cordova. The agents had previously identified suspects Fatimadeniz Diaz, 33, who is also an illegal alien, and Steven Espinoza Diaz, 26, as the traffickers. After brief surveillance, agents were able to interrupt the drug deal and arrest both suspects. They then located two separate bags containing 62 pounds of methamphetamine and 750 grams of heroin.
On May 2, 2019, both Fatimadeniz Diaz and Steven Espinoza Diaz pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin; and distribution of methamphetamine and heroin.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Distribution of illegal narcotics is not a victimless crime. In order to prevent needless addiction, injury, violence, and death in our communities, we must disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations that deliver this deadly poison to citizens in West Tennessee. These traffickers brought large quantities of meth and heroin into Memphis for resale, and will now reap long prison sentences for their harmful crimes."
Sentencing is scheduled for August 1, 2019 before U.S. District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker. Each defendant faces a mandatory minimumsentence of at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Griffith is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
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Two Detroit Men Plead Guilty to Federal Heroin OffenseRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Two Detroit men who were caught with heroin last year pled guilty to federal charges, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Drevonte Larnielle Patterson, 21, and Christian Vincent Keith Gordon, 22, both entered guilty pleas to possession with intent to distribute heroin in federal court in Huntington. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the Huntington Police Department.
“Detroit drug dealers flushing heroin down the toilet,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Detroit drug dealers have flushed too many lives down the toilet by bringing dangerous drugs into our communities.”
On March 15, 2018, officers executed a search warrant at the apartment located at 156 1/2 Sixth Avenue in Huntington. During the search, Patterson and Gordon were found in the bathroom attempting to flush approximately 49 grams of heroin down the toilet. Officers seized the heroin which Patterson and Gordon admitted they intended to distribute. Patterson and Gordon further admitted they distributed heroin from the apartment during the month of March 2018.
Patterson and Gordon both face up to 20 years in federal prison when they are sentenced on August 26, 2019.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams is handling the prosecutions. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the plea hearings.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.), a focused enforcement effort that seeks to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas.
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Three Defendants Sentenced in Huntington for Federal Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – – Three defendants who committed drug offenses last year in Huntington were sentenced today in federal court, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Steven Jamar Alexander, 33, was sentenced to 77 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine. In separate prosecutions, Zachary Taylor Lucas, 25, was sentenced to 3 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to distributing heroin and Jason Clark Dailey, 27, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to distributing fentanyl and illegal possession of a firearm by a drug user. Stuart commended the investigative efforts of the DEA, the FBI Drug Task Force, and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department.
“Three more defendants; three more drug dealers sentenced to prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We’ve worked hard and we’ve worked smart with federal, state and local law enforcement to clean up the streets of Huntington and Cabell County, and we’ll continue working to ensure public safety.”
In the Alexander prosecution, a confidential informant contacted Alexander on August 14, 2018, to arrange a purchase of methamphetamine. Alexander directed the informant to travel to a gas station in the 2200 block of 8th Avenue in Huntington to complete the transaction. At that location, Alexander met the informant and distributed methamphetamine in exchange $120. As part of his plea, Alexander admitted to distributing methamphetamine to the informant on four other occasions.
In the Lucas prosecution, a confidential informant contacted Lucas on March 26, 2018, to arrange a purchase of heroin. Lucas directed the informant to travel to his residence in Milton to complete the transaction. At that location, Lucas distributed heroin to the informant in exchange for $100. As part of his plea, Lucas admitted that he distributed heroin to the informant on two other occasions and that he was involved in distributing heroin in the Milton area during the months of March and April of 2018.
In the Dailey prosecution, a confidential informant contacted Dailey on June 21, 2018, to arrange a purchase of fentanyl. Dailey directed the informant to travel to his residence in Ona to complete the transaction. At that location, Dailey distributed fentanyl to the informant in exchange for $100. On July 5, 2018, deputies executed a search warrant at Dailey’s residence. During the search, deputies seized heroin and two firearms which Dailey possessed. Dailey admitted that he was a drug user and thus, Dailey was prohibited from possessing firearms. Also as part of his plea, Dailey admitted that he distributed heroin to the informant on another occasion and that he was involved in distributing heroin in the Ona area from February to July of 2018.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecutions. The sentences were imposed by United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers.
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The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of North Carolina Pays Tribute to Fallen Law Enforcement Officers in Observance of National Police WeekRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Communities across the United States gather during National Police Week to remember law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, to share their stories of courage and sacrifice, and to honor their memory.
“During National Police Week we pay tribute to America’s fallen law enforcement offices who made the ultimate sacrifice. Together with our fallen heroes’ families, friends and fellow officers we come together to grieve for their loss, celebrate their lives and honor their legacy,” said Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the calendar week in which May 15 falls as National Police Week. Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.
This year, the names of 371 U.S. law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., including the names of 158 officers who were killed in 2018, and 213 officers who died earlier in history but whose stories of sacrifice had not been previously documented. North Carolina State Trooper Brandon Peterson will be inducted into the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Trooper Peterson passed away unexpectedly on April 7, 2017. At the time of his death, Trooper Peterson was assigned to Highway Patrol Troop G, which covers Yancey, Mitchell, Avery and Madison Counties.
U.S. Attorney Murray also stated, “Along with remembering the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice, National Police Week is a time to recognize the contributions of all police officers from around the country, who put themselves at harm’s way each day to protect our communities and our neighborhoods. I want the entire law enforcement community to know that they have our unwavering support and appreciation.”
The names of all 371 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019 to be held on the National Mall.
Statement from U.S. Attorney Bobby L. Christine in the on-duty death of Savannah Police Sgt. Kelvin AnsariRead the Press Release
SAVANNAH, GA: “It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss and honor the selfless service of Savannah Police Department Sgt. Kelvin Ansari,” said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. “After serving 21 years in the U.S. Army, and 10 years as a police officer in Savannah, Sgt. Ansari exemplifies the type of leader who deserves the respect and appreciation of a grateful nation. On behalf of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our many law enforcement partners, we join in expressing our deepest sympathy to Sgt. Ansari’s wife and four children, and to his many brothers and sisters in blue. Our heartfelt prayers for their comfort are with them today.”
St. Louis Man Pleads Guilty to Carjacking with a Sawed-Off ShotgunRead the Press Release
St. Louis, MO – David Jones, 20, St. Louis, MO, pleaded guilty to one count of carjacking. Jones appeared today before U.S. District Judge Ronnie White, who accepted his plea and set his sentencing date for August 14, 2019, at 10:30 a.m.
According to the plea agreement, on May 22, 2018, the victim and a friend were sitting in the victim’s 2008 Malibu in the 1300 block of Ferguson when Jones and two other individuals approached them and told them to get out of the car. One pointed a short-barreled shotgun and another pointed a handgun at the victims. The three robbers jumped in the car and drove off.
An hour after the carjacking, members of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department spotted the stolen Malibu. The Malibu drove in a reckless and dangerous manner before spinning out of control. Jones exited the driver’s seat and, with two others, fled on foot. The pursuing officers saw Jones discard a loaded sawed-off, short-barreled Springfield shotgun. Jones was taken into custody after a foot chase and a struggle.
Jones faces a term of imprisonment of not more than 20 years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000. In determining the actual sentences, a judge is required to consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case and Assistant United States Attorney Tom Mehan is handling this case.
Springfield Man Pleads Guilty to Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
BOSTON - A Springfield man pleaded guilty in federal court in Springfield today to his role in a heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine conspiracy.
Oscar Rosario, 33, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine and two counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine. U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for July 31, 2019. Rosario has been in custody since his arrest on Dec. 21, 2018, when he and seven co-defendants were charged in a superseding indictment.
According to court documents, co-defendants Nia Moore-Bush and Dinelson Dinzey obtained narcotics in the Springfield area, transported the narcotics to Vermont themselves or via couriers, and distributed the drugs in the Barre area, where drug prices are much higher than in Springfield. Rosario supplied Moore-Bush and Dinzey with heroin, including on two specific dates: Nov. 17, 2017, and Dec. 8, 2017.
Rosario, who has at least one prior serious conviction for a violent offense for which he served more than one year in prison, faces up to 30 years in prison, a minimum of four years of supervised release and a fine of up to $2 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Boston Field Division, made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston, the Massachusetts State Police, the Vermont State Police, the Montpelier (VT) and Barre (VT) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katharine A. Wagner of Lelling’s Springfield Office and Amy Harman Burkart of Lelling’s Boston Office are prosecuting the cases.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Six Missourians Among 15 Indicted for Large-Scale Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Six southern Missouri residents are among 15 defendants indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a large-scale methamphetamine conspiracy that involved multi-pound shipments of methamphetamine transported from Arizona to Missouri.
Gregory L. Hopper, 34, and Amanda L. Robinson, 27, both of Springfield, Mo.; Leslie T. Ray, 49, and Melissa D. Melencamp, 42, both of Branson, Mo.; Olivia L. Fluke, 34, of Reeds Spring, Mo.; Jason C. Brookshire, 37, of Aurora, Mo.; Manual Edgardo Cortez, also known as “Manny,” 44, Mel Chevez Arnold, 57, Estelle E. Lawson, 50, and George G. Galaz, Jr., 45, all of Tuscon, Ariz.; Christopher K. Perez, also known as “Wombat,” 31, of Silver City, N.M.; Jedediah L. Selke, 44, of Silver City, N.M.; Diandre Valentine, 32, of Chicago, Ill.; Daniel D. Rhea, 32, of Naples, Texas; Joshua S. Speakes, 39, of Mountain Home, Ark.; were charged in a 12-count superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Mo., on Thursday, May 9. This superseding indictment replaces a March 26, 2019, indictment that charged only Cortez and Arnold.
The federal indictment alleges that all 15 defendants participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Greene, Christian, Polk, and Taney counties from June 2017 to March 18, 2019.
According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, the investigation began when law enforcement officers seized nearly two pounds of methamphetamine, allegedly supplied by Cortez, from a Branson hotel room. Cortez allegedly used couriers to transport multi-pound loads of methamphetamine from Arizona to Branson. On several of those trips, says the affidavit, couriers transported 15-pound loads of methamphetamine.
On Feb. 20, 2019, Arizona state troopers seized approximately eight pounds of methamphetamine from Arnold during a traffic stop near Phoenix, the affidavit says. The methamphetamine allegedly was supplied by Cortez and destined for Springfield.
In addition to the drug-trafficking conspiracy, Hopper, Robinson, Ray, Melencamp, Fluke, Valentine, Rhea, and Galaz are charged in individual counts related to the distribution of methamphetamine.
Hopper and Robinson are also charged together in one count of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. They allegedly possessed 15 firearms – including four assault rifles, 10 handguns and a shotgun – on Feb. 21, 2019.
Speakes is also charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime and with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull II. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HIS); the Branson, Mo., Police Department; the Christian County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department; the Ozark, Mo., Police Department; the Springfield, Mo., Police Department; the Missouri State Highway Patrol; the Silver City, N.M., Police Department; and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
Shreveport man pleads guilty to possessing .40-caliber ammunitionRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced that Aaron Troquille, 32, of Shreveport, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote to possessing .40-caliber ammunition.
According to the guilty plea, Shreveport Police responded to a 911 domestic abuse call on April 18, 2018 at Troquille’s residence on Amie Street. After speaking with the victim, police officers arrested Troquille and learned from him during questioning that Troquille had .40-caliber ammunition in the house. The officers conducted a search of the house and recovered the ammunition.
Troquille is a convicted felon who pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute marijuana on May 18, 2011 in Caddo Parish. Under federal law, felons are not allowed to possess firearms or ammunition.
Troquille faces up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. Judge Foote set the sentencing date for August 26, 2019.
The ATF and Shreveport Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford is prosecuting the case.
Schuylkill County Man Guilty of Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON—The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Josiah Ferrebee, age 22, of Pine Grove, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on May 9, 2019, before Senior U.S. District Court Judge James M. Munley, to production and attempted to production of child pornography.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Ferrebee admitted to persuading a 14-year-old female from the state of Michigan to take sexually explicit images of herself and send them to him via the internet. Ferrebee also admitted that after he persuaded the minor to take and send some initial images to him, he threatened to post those images online unless she sent him more sexually explicit images of herself, which she did. Ferrebee committed the crime—what some have termed “sextortion”—in January 2016.
Judge Munley ordered a pre-sentence investigation to be completed, and scheduled sentencing for August 12, 2019.
The matter was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Francis P. Sempa and Jenny P. Roberts are prosecuting the case.
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 individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 30 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. There is also a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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Schenectady Woman Sentenced to 57 Months for Role in Gun Store BurglaryRead the Press Release
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Dalmary Morales, age 38, of Schenectady, New York, was sentenced on May 9 to 57 months in prison for receiving, possessing, concealing, and storing firearms stolen from Target Sports, Inc., a federally licensed firearms dealer in Schenectady County.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Senior United States District Judge Norman A. Mordue also sentenced Morales to 3 years of supervised release and ordered that she pay restitution of $48,775.
Morales pled guilty on May 17, 2018. As part of her plea, Morales admitted that she helped Christian Roman and Jose Fontanez steal dozens of firearms from Target Sports by repeatedly driving the men between her apartment and the gun store. Each time, she served as a lookout while the two removed firearms, ammunition, and other property from inside the store through a broken window and placed them in her car. Morales also admitted that she helped Roman and Fontanez inventory the stolen firearms at her apartment and obstructed justice by alerting Roman and Fontanez that authorities were looking for them in the hours after the burglary, resulting in an extended manhunt.
Omar DeJesus, age 32, and Onic Martinez, age 34, both of Amsterdam, New York, pled guilty in 2018 for their roles in stealing, transporting and possessing the firearms. Both men were sentenced to 120 months in prison.
Christian Roman, age 24, of Schenectady, pled guilty in 2018 to stealing the firearms from Target Sports. He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29, 2019.
Juan Saez, age 35, of Rochester, New York, pled guilty in 2018 for his role in stealing, transporting and possessing the firearms. He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 2, 2019.
Jose Fontanez, age 36, of Schenectady, pled guilty in 2018 to stealing the firearms from Target Sports, and other, related charges. He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 16, 2019.
The case was investigated by the ATF, New York State Police, and the Glenville Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne A. Myers.
San Fernando Valley Con Man Pleads Guilty in Multi-Million Dollar Real Estate Fraud Scheme that Targeted Vulnerable HomeownersRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A career con man pleaded guilty today in a federal fraud case stemming from a real estate scam that targeted distressed homeowners, many of whom were elderly individuals who were scammed out of their homes, losing significant equity in the properties accumulated over the course of their lifetimes and sometimes over the course of generations of home ownership.
Michael “Mickey” Henschel, 70, of Van Nuys, pleaded guilty to mail fraud in relation to the scheme that generated more than $17 million in profits and caused homeowners to suffer approximately $10 million in losses when they lost title to their homes and when they were defrauded into giving Henschel and his co-conspirators money as part of the scam. Henschel’s fraudulent conduct also caused losses to mortgage lenders and purchasers of foreclosed properties.
With another defendant pleading guilty today, a total of seven conspirators linked to Henschel’s Van Nuys-based businesses have now pleaded guilty in the scheme that used fraudulent deeds to steal properties from homeowners, and also charged homeowners illegal fees to delay foreclosure and eviction actions.
According to court documents, Henschel – who used various aliases, including “Frank Winston,” “Steve Lopez” and “Ron Berman” – and his co-conspirators tricked distressed homeowners into signing fraudulent deeds on their properties with false promises that the deeds would help homeowners protect their properties from creditors. The fraudulent deeds allowed Henschel and the others to fraudulently file documents on the titles to the targeted homeowners’ properties. For example, they filed fraudulent grant deeds that purported to convey an interest in the properties to entities that Henschel controlled. They also filed fraudulent trust deeds based on fictional loans supposedly guaranteed by the targeted homeowners and fraudulent liens that recorded an interest in the properties based on fictional debts.
Henschel and his co-conspirators benefited from the fraudulent filings in a variety of ways, including through outright theft of the properties, mortgages that co-conspirators obtained on the properties, and rental payments that they obtained from tenants living in the properties. The schemers also made money by demanding payments from the targeted homeowners to clear up the title, and from fraudulent state court civil actions that Henschel and his co-conspirators used to leverage settlement payments.
Four other defendants who worked for Henschel’s various companies recently pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and bankruptcy fraud. They are:
• Camerino “Mino” Islas, 42, of North Hollywood;
• Claudia “Jessica” Islas, 43, of Reseda;
• Juan Carlos Velasquez, 44, of Sylmar; and
• Eugene “Gene” Fulmer, 84, of Encino, who pleaded guilty today.
Two other individuals – Shara Surabi, 35, of Burbank, and Lidia Alvarez, 55, of Bell Gardens – pleaded guilty in late 2017 to federal charges related to this scheme.
The real estate fraud scheme had two parts – one involving property theft and litigation extortion, and the other involving illegal foreclosure and eviction delay.
In relation to the first aspect of the scheme, Henschel and his co-conspirators identified distressed homeowners who were in default on mortgages or were experiencing financial troubles, even though some had large amounts of equity in their properties. These homeowners were falsely told that Henschel was a sophisticated real estate investor and attorney who would purchase their properties on fair market terms, or he could help protect the homes from creditors. Henschel and the others promised distressed homeowners that they could refinance mortgages or restructure real estate holdings to insulate the properties from creditors, and that Henschel and other co-conspirators could manage the properties on an ongoing basis.
Henschel and the others convinced homeowners to sign fraudulent documents that were recorded on the titles to their homes. In some cases, these fraudulent filings were used to steal properties outright. In other cases, the conspirators exploited the fraudulent filings by initiating foreclosure proceedings and demanding money from homeowners before the properties could be sold. Henschel and his co-conspirators also leveraged the high cost of bringing and defending civil actions to extort settlement payments from homeowners, relying on the fact that it would often be less expensive for homeowners to pay money than to fight them in court.
In the foreclosure rescue part of the scheme, Henschel and his co-conspirators used fraudulent filings to charge homeowners fees to delay foreclosure and eviction actions. Henschel and the others had homeowners sign fraudulent deeds that transferred interests to debtors in bankruptcy cases – but the bankruptcies were fraudulent and used solely as part of the fraudulent scheme, not as part of any genuine effort to restructure or eliminate debts. Many of the fraudulent bankruptcies were filed in the names of fictional people and entities, and some involved stolen identities. Henschel and his co-conspirators sent fake deeds and fraudulent bankruptcy petitions to trustees to stop foreclosure sales, and they delayed evictions in a similar way, mainly by sending bogus documents to various county sheriff’s offices.
As a result of his guilty plea today, Henschel is facing a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. The other six defendants each face up to five years’ imprisonment. Henschel is scheduled to be sentenced by United States District Judge Virginia A. Phillips on August 12, and the four other conspirators who recently pleaded guilty are scheduled to be sentenced on August 26. Surabi and Alvarez are expected to be sentenced later this year.
As part of his plea agreement, Henschel agreed to forfeit money and property that represent proceeds of the fraudulent scheme, including more than $100,000 in cash seized from a bank account and various residential properties in the San Fernando Valley, Glendale and Pasadena.
The case against Henschel and the others are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Housing Finance Agency - Office of Inspector General. The United States Trustee’s Office for the Central District of California initially referred the matter for investigation and has provided substantial assistance. Also providing assistance during the investigation were the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, the Los Angeles County Recorder’s Office, the Alameda County Recorder’s Office, and the San Diego County Recorder’s Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kerry L. Quinn and Eddie A. Jauregui of the Major Frauds Section. The forfeiture part of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan S. Galatzan of the Asset Forfeiture Section.