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20 June 2019
Dominican National Sentenced for Fentanyl Conspiracy Including the Distribution of Counterfeit Pain PillsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national residing in Roxbury with lawful permanent resident status was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his role in a wide-ranging narcotics trafficking operation that included distributing counterfeit prescription pain pills containing fentanyl throughout Boston and Cape Cod.
Santiago Pena, 51, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young to two years in prison and five years of supervised release. In December 2017, Pena pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
A lengthy wiretap investigation revealed that James Ramirez, an individual charged separately, supplied large-quantities of fentanyl and heroin to Kevin and Alex Fraga, drug dealers on Cape Cod. Ramirez also sold fentanyl pills designed to look like legitimate prescription oxycodone pills. Wiretap intercepts revealed that Ramirez was distributing fentanyl pills in batches of 100 to numerous other drug dealers. Over 2,500 fentanyl pills were recovered as a result of Ramirez’s arrest in late August.
Pena brokered fentanyl pill deals on Ramirez’s behalf, helping to connect Ramirez with a fentanyl pill supplier. On multiple occasions, Ramirez traded used cars for a combination of cash and fentanyl pills in deals that Pena helped arrange.
Alex Fraga pleaded guilty in August 2017, and was sentenced on June 10, 2019, to 131 months in prison. Kevin Fraga and Ramirez pleaded guilty and are scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 8, 2019, and Oct. 1, 2019, respectively.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Colonel Kerry A. Gilpin, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Kelly Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Kristina O’Connell, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation in Boston; and Cape and Islands District Attorney Michael O’Keefe made the announcement today. Assistance was provided by the Brewster, Harwich, Sandwich, Mashpee, Chatham, Yarmouth, and Barnstable Police Departments and the Barnstable County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alathea Porter and Philip Cheng of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the cases.
Dominican National Sentenced for Distributing Fentanyl and HeroinRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Dominican national residing in Lawrence was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for distributing a mixture of fentanyl and heroin.
Jorge Aguasvivas, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani to 78 months in prison and four years of supervised release. The defendant will be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. In March 2019, Aguasvivas pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 100 grams or more of heroin.
On Aug. 2, 2018, during a joint federal and state law enforcement operation in Lawrence, Aguasvivas delivered 139 grams of a substance containing a mixture of fentanyl and heroin to an undercover agent. Agents arrested Aguasvivas immediately after the drug delivery.
United States Attorney Andrew Lelling; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey; and Colonel Kerry Gilpin, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip C. Cheng of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
District of Columbia Development Company and Owner Plead Guilty to Crimes Related to Lead-Based PaintRead the Press Release
Mohammad Sikder, 60, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty today to two counts of violating the Toxic Substances Control Act for his role in renovating a Washington, D.C., property without following lead-safe work practices and lead disclosure requirements.
Sikder’s solely held company, District Properties LLC, also pleaded guilty to making false statements in 25 building permit applications to the District of Columbia Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA). These applications understated the age of the homes being renovated, with the intent to avoid regulatory scrutiny of inadequate lead-based paint safety measures at those properties.
The Honorable Amy Berman Jackson scheduled sentencing for Nov. 22, 2019. The charges against Mr. Sikder carry a statutory maximum of twelve months in prison and potential financial penalties. He and the government will jointly recommend a $50,000 fine in addition to any prison time imposed. The company has agreed to pay a $150,000 criminal fine, and to put another $25,000 towards funding lead-based paint compliance trainings in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia.
“Lead poisoning is a major environmental health problem, and the deliberate actions taken by the defendant posed an unnecessary risk to his employees and the public at large,” said Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey Bossert Clark for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “The Department of Justice will not allow to go unchallenged such flagrant disregard for the rule of law and will continue to work with its partners to protect the health of communities here in Washington, D.C., and beyond.”
“By using unlicensed and untrained workers to renovate older buildings, the defendant threatened the health of his workers and the general public,” said Jennifer Lynn, Acting Special Agent in Charge for EPA’s Mid-Atlantic criminal enforcement program. “Today’s guilty pleas demonstrate that EPA and its partner agencies are committed to enforcing laws protecting public health.”
Lead poisoning continues to be a major environmental health problem in the United States, although it is completely preventable. The most common source of childhood lead poisoning is lead-based paint in older homes, and the primary exposure pathway is ingestion of lead-contaminated dust. Lead is a toxic substance that can cause permanent damage, and is regulated under the Toxic Substances Control Act. Under the Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP Rule), contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.
According to a Statement of Offense filed along with the plea agreements, Sikder and District Properties LLC purchased and renovated a property in Washington, D.C., without following the requirements of the RRP Rule. In 2014, the company submitted a building permit application to DCRA for addition, alteration, and repair of the property. At Sikder’s instruction, the employee submitting the permit application, under the section of the application titled “Lead Abatement,” falsely indicated that the property was built after 1978. During the summer and fall of 2014, a contractor conducted demolition at the property without following RRP Rule safe work practices. The demolition work included removing windows, removing interior and exterior painted surfaces, and removing floor and ceiling joists.
A Sept. 24, 2015, Occupational Safety and Health Administration inspection revealed multiple hazards, including (1) employees performing manual demolition on a wall surface that had paint containing lead; (2) the lack of an employee exposure assessment to determine actual employee exposure; (3) the lack of lead training to employees; and (4) proper sanitation practices not being followed. Sampling analysis showed lead present on the dump truck and employees’ hands. When the property was properly remediated and sold, Sikder and District Properties LLC did not provide the purchasers this information and with a report documenting the prior existence of lead-based paint at the property.
Between 2011 and 2017, District Properties LLC submitted 25 renovation permit applications for properties in Washington, D.C., on which the company falsely represented that the properties had been built after 1978, thereby circumventing additional permitting requirements and avoiding EPA oversight with respect to RRP Rule compliance, which would be triggered by an accurate permit application.
In announcing the plea, Deputy Assistant Attorney General Williams and Acting Special Agent in Charge Lynn expressed appreciation for the work performed by Special Agent Allison Landsman from EPA-Criminal Investigations Division, in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Department Environmental Crimes Unit. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Cassandra J. Barnum of the Environmental Crimes Section.
Deputy Attorney General recognizes district employeesRead the Press Release
L-R: EOUSA Director James Crowell, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, NDWV Administrative Officer Fawn Thomas, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell L-R: EOUSA Director James Crowell, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, NDWV Reentry Coordinator Ashley Lough, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell L-R: EOUSA Director James Crowell, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, NDWV Litigation Support Specialist Tracie Weaver, U.S. Attorney Bill PowellWASHINGTON – Administrative Officer Fawn Thomas, Reentry Coordinator Ashley Lough, and Litigation Support Specialist Tracie Weaver of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of West Virginia were three of 172 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington D.C.
The Northern District of West Virginia was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
In his prepared remarks, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen addressed the recipients and guests, saying, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded.”
In his remarks, EOUSA Director James Crowell told the recipients, “The Department of Justice is in truth a deployed force. Your work isn’t easy, but it is vital to the functioning and enduring nature of our democracy. As federal prosecutors, we are held to a higher standard, a standard that requires us to ensure that we uphold the rule of law and the fundamental rules of fairness in every trial, every settlement, every plea, and every legal argument in which we are involved.”
Fawn Thomas, Administrative Officer, is being honored for Superior Performance in Administration. Fawn has worked for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for 31 years, serving in several positions prior to becoming the Administrative Officer in 2012. Fawn has been described as a “force of nature”. Her dedication to the District and its staff is unmatched. She travels thousands of miles every year across the District trying to assure all ongoing needs are being met, and does so with a warm and generous spirit. Her work ethic is well-known to all who know her and she exemplifies the District’s motto of “One District, One Mission.” Fawn’ endless hours of dedication greatly justifies the recognition she has now received.
For Superior Performance in Prevention and Reentry Activities, the Executive Office has recognized Reentry Coordinator Ashley Lough. Ashley has been the District’s Reentry Coordinator since 2017, and also serves at the Executive Assistant to the U.S. Attorney. Ashley has worked tirelessly to implement the district’s reentry simulation in all of the District’s federal correctional facilities, as well as several within the West Virginia’s Division of Corrections’ prisons. She has put the District on a national stage as the standard in reentry efforts with this simulation. She also assists with job fairs within our federal prisons, as well as trained those in other Districts across the country on reentry efforts. Her dedication to reentry and the success of those exiting prison is unmatched. Ashley has worked with the District for four years, and with the federal government for 12 years.
Tracie Weaver, Litigation Support Specialist, is being honored for Superior Performance in Litigative Support Role. Tracie was the first Litigation Support Specialist in the District, and has worked tirelessly to master the tools necessary for exemplary work in her position. Tracie has assisted in helped to establish four fully-trained Litigation Support Specialists now in the District. She offers vital assistance and knowledge to the other specialists, to the Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the District, serving as an important part of the criminal prosecution team, and to others on a national level. Tracie has worked for the District for more than 20 years.
“It is my great privilege to work daily with each of these extraordinary women. It is unheard of that a district our size has three award recipients. Our districts’ honorees are great representatives of the dedication our staff has to our mission. Our district couldn’t be prouder,” said United States Attorney Bill Powell, Northern District of West Virginia.
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
Deputy Attorney General Recognizes Southern District of Florida Assistant U.S. AttorneysRead the Press Release
Maurice Johnson, Kimberly A. Selmore, and Edward N. Stamm of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Florida were among 172 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington D.C.
The Southern District of Florida was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony, which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
In his prepared remarks, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen addressed the recipients and guests, saying, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded.”
In his remarks, EOUSA Director James Crowell told the recipients, “The Department of Justice is in truth a deployed force. Your work isn’t easy, but it is vital to the functioning and enduring nature of our democracy. As federal prosecutors, we are held to a higher standard, a standard that requires us to ensure that we uphold the rule of law and the fundamental rules of fairness in every trial, every settlement, every plea, and every legal argument in which we are involved.”
Senior Litigation Counsel Edward Stamm and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kim Selmore and Maurice Johnson were recognized for their outstanding work in the investigation and prosecution of a widespread municipal corruption ring victimizing the city of Opa Locka, Florida. A working class city in Miami-Dade County, Opa Locka has long been plagued by a tight-knit group of corrupt elected and appointed officials. These officials enriched themselves at the expense of the city’s residents and small business owners. Law enforcement authorities began a proactive investigation in 2014 using a wide range of techniques to gather evidence. In 2016, the investigation culminated in the execution of a search warrant on Opa Locka City Hall. The investigation expanded, resulting in the conviction and imprisonment of numerous individuals on corruption charges. The convicted individuals included an elected City Commissioner, Opa Locka’s City Manager, Assistant Public Works Director, the Mayor’s son and the acknowledged power broker in the city.
“Senior Litigation Counsel Edward Stamm and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kim Selmore and Maurice Johnson are career prosecutors who uphold the highest standards of the Department of Justice,” said Ariana Fajardo Orshan, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. “The cases for which they are being recognized exemplify their dedication to justice. Mr. Stamm, Ms. Selmore, and Mr. Johnson worked tirelessly to root out corruption by the officials who betrayed the trust of the community they served. The City of Opa Locka is safer today because of the efforts of these prosecutors.”
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
Deputy Attorney General Recognizes Middle District of Florida EmployeeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Public Affairs Officer William Daniels of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of Florida was one of 172 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington D.C.
The Middle District of Florida was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
In his prepared remarks, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen addressed the recipients and guests, saying, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded.
In his remarks, EOUSA Director James Crowell told the recipients, “The Department of Justice is in truth a deployed force. Your work isn’t easy, but it is vital to the functioning and enduring nature of our democracy. As federal prosecutors, we are held to a higher standard, a standard that requires us to ensure that we uphold the rule of law and the fundamental rules of fairness in every trial, every settlement, every plea, and every legal argument in which we are involved.”
Public Affairs Officer William Daniels is recognized for his extraordinary performance in Public Affairs concerning the Orlando Pulse Nightclub Attack. Mr. Daniels’s exceptional service, from the date of the event and throughout the related criminal trial that led to the acquittal of Noor Salman, merits this award. Mr. Daniels deserves ample praise for his work for his initial response to the scene; ability to address victim and community concerns following the aftermath of the event, and during the criminal investigation and trial; his solutions to unique media and court relations problems; his coordination with DOJ components and local, state, and federal law enforcement; and his deft handling of all public affairs issues.
“Mr. Daniels is a tremendous asset to our team here in the Middle District of Florida. His expertise and skills are unmatched, and his dedication and commitment are unfaltering,” said U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez. “Mr. Daniels is an extraordinary example of how best a Public Affairs Officer can further the Department and USAO mission.”
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
Deputy Attorney General Recognizes Eastern District of Washington Assistant U.S. AttorneysRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Alison Gregoire and Thomas Hanlon of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington were among 172 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington D.C.
The Eastern District of Washington was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
In his prepared remarks, Deputy Attorney General Rosen addressed the recipients and guests, saying, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded.”
In his remarks, EOUSA Director James Crowell told the recipients, “The Department of Justice is in truth a deployed force. Your work isn’t easy, but it is vital to the functioning and enduring nature of our democracy. As federal prosecutors, we are held to a higher standard, a standard that requires us to ensure that we uphold the rule of law and the fundamental rules of fairness in every trial, every settlement, every plea, and every legal argument in which we are involved.”
United States Attorney Joseph H. Harrington stated, “Ms. Gregoire and Mr. Hanlon are career prosecutors who have dedicated their professional lives to making our community safer. Their work shows that they uphold the highest standards of the Department of Justice.”
Assistant United States Attorneys Alison Gregoire and Thomas Hanlon were recognized for their dedication to making Indian Country a priority in the Eastern District of Washington. Serving four different tribes, Ms. Gregoire and Mr. Hanlon have prosecuted challenging cases with unparalleled dedication and excellence. Through their dedicated service to Indian Country, they have built lasting, productive partnerships and exceeded expectations in establishing credibility of federal investigations and prosecutions in Indian Country.
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
Deputy Attorney General Recognizes District EmployeeRead the Press Release
BIRMINGHAM – China M. Davidson, Chief of Administrative Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Alabama was one of 172 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington D.C.
The Northern District of Alabama was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
In his prepared remarks, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen addressed the recipients and guests, saying, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded.”
In his remarks, EOUSA Director James Crowell told the recipients, “The Department of Justice is in truth a deployed force. Your work isn’t easy, but it is vital to the functioning and enduring nature of our democracy. As federal prosecutors, we are held to a higher standard, a standard that requires us to ensure that we uphold the rule of law and the fundamental rules of fairness in every trial, every settlement, every plea, and every legal argument in which we are involved.”
China M. Davidson is recognized for her sustained exemplary service, which exceeds the highest standards of excellence in executive leadership, management, and advisory services. During her 24 years of service, Ms. Davidson significantly contributed to her division’s community by promoting a culture of excellence and professionalism. Ms. Davidson has many talents relating to management, team building, community-outreach services, and grant writing, which she has generously used to create numerous unique opportunities for her division and the USAO community. In addition, Ms. Davidson has shown steadfast commitment to advance the Attorney General’s ‘Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative’ through early prevention in schools and training for law enforcement officers. Ms. Davidson’s tenure has been characterized by exceptional service as a Department pathfinder, mentor, instructor, and counselor who has consistently inspired leadership and professionalism.
“China Davidson has served the Department of Justice with great distinction for the better part of three decades,” Town said. “It is rare to have one person have such a positive impact on the functionality of an office. The Northern District of Alabama has been made safer, our lives made better, and our future made brighter because of China Davidson’s resourcefulness and leadership. Her recognition by Director Crowell just underscores her value to the Department, my office, and the citizens of Alabama.”
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
Deputy Attorney General Recognizes District EmployeeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Assistant U.S. Attorney Héctor Ramírez-Carbó of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Puerto Rico was one of 172 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington D.C.
The District of Puerto Rico was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
In his prepared remarks, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen addressed the recipients and guests, saying, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded.
In his remarks, EOUSA Director James Crowell told the recipients, “The Department of Justice is in truth a deployed force. Your work isn’t easy, but it is vital to the functioning and enduring nature of our democracy. As federal prosecutors, we are held to a higher standard, a standard that requires us to ensure that we uphold the rule of law and the fundamental rules of fairness in every trial, every settlement, every plea, and every legal argument in which we are involved.”
Héctor Ramírez-Carbó, District of Puerto Rico, is recognized for his outstanding supervisory and managerial leadership as Chief of the Civil Division. As Civil Chief since 2014, Mr. Ramírez has implemented outstanding strategies to develop a successful and emerging ACE Unit and to integrate the work of the Civil Division Staff with the Criminal Division. In 2015, the EARS Evaluation Team gave excellent reviews for Mr. Ramirez’s management of the Civil Division. Mr. Ramirez’s exceptional efforts have instilled a spirit of cooperation among the different components of the office and have served to highlight the important work performed by employees in the Civil Division.
“We couldn’t be more pleased with EOUSA’s recognition of the leadership and managerial skills of AUSA Ramírez. We take this opportunity to congratulate him and his Civil Division team on all their accomplishments,” said Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez, US Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico.
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
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Deputy Attorney General Recognizes District Branch ChiefRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Duax, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Iowa’s Sioux City brank office, was one of 172 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington D.C.
The Northern District of Iowa was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
In addressing the award recipients and guests, Deputy Attorney General Rosen told the awardees, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded.”
In his remarks, EOUSA Director James Crowell told the recipients, “The Department of Justice is in truth a deployed force. Your work isn’t easy, but it is vital to the functioning and enduring nature of our democracy. As federal prosecutors, we are held to a higher standard, a standard that requires us to ensure that we uphold the rule of law and the fundamental rules of fairness in every trial, every settlement, every plea, and every legal argument in which we are involved.”
AUSA Duax was recognized for his superior performance in a managerial or supervisory role. Over the past several years, Duax overcame difficult circumstances, including limited resources and a disruptive construction project, to greatly enhance the leadership, productivity, and morale in the Sioux City office. At the same time, he prosecuted some of the office’s most difficult human trafficking and sexual exploitation cases while serving in a number of district-wide roles for the Northern District of Iowa.
“AUSA Duax demonstrated outstanding dedication and hard work, leading the Sioux City office by setting the example every day,” said United States Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr. “Through difficult times and trying circumstances,
AUSA Duax’s leadership, good humor, passion, and work ethic never wavered. My entire office is grateful for his continued commitment to doing everything he can to help protect the people of Iowa.”
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
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Deputy Attorney General Recognizes Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Cozzoni for her Work as Tribal LiaisonRead the Press Release
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Cozzoni, Tribal Liaison for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of Oklahoma, was one of 172 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV, at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington, D.C.
The Northern District of Oklahoma was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building. Cozzoni was recognized for her superior performance as Tribal Liaison in Indian Country.
Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen addressed the recipients and guests, saying, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded.”
“The Department of Justice is in truth a deployed force,” said EOUSA Director James Crowell to the recipients. “Your work isn’t easy, but it is vital to the functioning and enduring nature of our democracy. As federal prosecutors, we are held to a higher standard, a standard that requires us to ensure that we uphold the rule of law and the fundamental rules of fairness in every trial, every settlement, every plea, and every legal argument in which we are involved.”
Cozzoni is a stalwart advocate for justice as the Tribal Liaison to fourteen tribes in the Northern District of Oklahoma. Cozzoni has strengthened the relationship between the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Tribes, and likewise, she has expanded the collaborative partnership between federal, state, local, and tribal authorities.
“Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Cozzoni isn’t just a great Indian Country prosecutor, she’s a great person. This national recognition was well deserved and hard earned. I am incredibly proud to have her on our team,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores of the Northern District of Oklahoma. “AUSA Cozzoni exhibits excellence in the courtroom and shows genuine care for victims of violent crime. She regularly goes above and beyond the call of duty to help Native American women and children who are victims of domestic violence or sexual abuse. As our Tribal Liaison, she ensures that the United States upholds its federal trust responsibilities to Native Americans. AUSA Cozzoni does it all. She is truly an outstanding advocate for justice in Indian Country.”
As Tribal Liaison, Cozzoni prosecutes cases involving Native American victims and defendants, and she educates legal and law enforcement professionals on justice issues affecting communities in Indian Country. During the past year, Cozzoni organized and led victim service roundtables for tribal and state law enforcement and victim service providers. She also developed and taught accredited, joint training courses to tribal and local police departments in eleven counties, covering topics like cross-deputization agreements, domestic violence, and the opioid epidemic. Cozzoni further orchestrated three days of meetings for the Native American Issues Subcommittee to the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee, which were held at the Muscogee (Creek) and Cherokee Nations in Oklahoma. In hosting the 32 U.S. Attorneys who serve Native American and Alaska Native communities, Cozzoni developed an agenda focused on violent crime reduction, opioid abuse enforcement, victims’ rights, and white-collar crimes in Indian Country.
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
Deli Owner Sentenced to More Than 5 Years in Prison for Setting Fire to Rival DeliRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that REDHWAN SALEH was sentenced to 63 months in prison for his participation in an arson in the Bronx, New York. SALEH was convicted following a four-day trial before the Honorable William H. Pauley III, who imposed today’s sentence.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Today, New York City deli owner Redhwan Saleh learned that his attempt to burn down his competition – literally – comes at a steep price: more than five years in prison.”
According to allegations in the Superseding Indictment, other filings in Manhattan federal court, and the evidence presented at trial:
SALEH owned a deli near the intersection of 242nd Street and Broadway in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. After SALEH learned that a competing deli was about to open a few stores down from his, SALEH paid three men, including co-defendant Antoine Bostick, to set the new deli on fire. On September 11, 2016, a few weeks before the new deli opened, Bostick climbed onto the new deli’s roof, poured gasoline down the vent pipe, and lit the gas on fire. The new deli and a neighboring store both suffered extensive fire damage and the new deli’s opening was substantially delayed.
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In addition to the prison term, SALEH, 38, of Brooklyn, New York, was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $50,000 in restitution.
Bostick, 32, of New Rochelle, New York, was convicted of conspiracy to commit arson and was sentenced by Judge Pauley on March 15, 2019, to 50 months in prison and ordered to pay $50,000 in restitution.
In addition to SALEH and Bostick, two other individuals have been convicted in connection with this case. Arthur Cherry pled guilty to conspiracy to commit arson and arson and was sentenced by Judge Pauley on March 15, 2019, to time served, three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $50,000 in restitution. Richard Sanchez pled guilty to conspiracy to commit arson and was sentenced by Judge Pauley on February 1, 2019, to 28 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $50,000 in restitution.
Mr. Berman praised the investigative efforts of the Strategic Explosive and Arson Response Task Force of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New York Police Department, and the Fire Department of New York.
The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Adam S. Hobson and Thomas McKay are in charge of the prosecution.
Defense Supply Companies Resolve False Claims Act Liability for Substituting Surplus PartsRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced today that two defense supply companies, and a married couple who operated them, have agreed to resolve the government’s claims that they supplied non-conforming parts to the military in violation of the False Claims Act. The government described its claims in its federal court complaint filed today.
The government’s complaint alleges that in 2015 and 2016, the defense supply companies, Liberty Air Parts, Inc., and US Supply Corporation of Greenlawn, New York, and their operators, George Onorato and Ellen Onorato of Lamoine, Maine, agreed to supply bolts, rings, knobs, and rivets for $24,379.60 to the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support-Philadelphia. The defendants allegedly agreed to supply these parts in non-surplus condition, meaning brand new—direct from the manufacturer or authorized dealer—and not left over from other government projects.
Instead of supplying them in non-surplus condition, the defendants allegedly substituted leftover, surplus parts in secret. According to the complaint, the defendants concealed this substitution by falsifying records and making false statements. The complaint alleges that the substitution gave the defendants an advantage during the competitive bidding process, allowing them to quote prices for supposedly new, non-surplus parts while swapping them for leftover surplus parts after winning the bids.
To resolve the allegations, the defendants agreed to the entry of a consent judgment against them in the amount of $159,390.80. As part of this proposed consent judgment, the defendants admitted that they supplied parts in surplus condition in violation of contract requirements and the False Claims Act. The defendants also admitted that their substitution harmed open competition and undermined the integrity of the government’s procurement process. In addition, the defendants admitted that they acted recklessly when they responded to the government’s requests for information about the parts.
The proposed consent judgment will protect the public from future harm by prohibiting the defendants from contracting with the federal government at any time.
“My Office will not tolerate government contractors who cut corners and certainly will not tolerate product substitutions like the ones alleged here,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “Supplying non-conforming parts to the military isn’t fair to American taxpayers, isn’t fair to competing contractors, and most importantly, isn’t fair to our service members in uniform who trust that they will receive the supplies promised to them.”
“Preventing product substitution in the U.S. Department of Defense’s procurement chain is a top priority for the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” stated Leigh-Alistair Barzey, Special Agent in Charge of the DCIS Northeast Field Office. “The civil settlement agreement announced today is the direct result of a joint effort and demonstrates DCIS’ ongoing commitment to partner with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to identify, investigate and prosecute companies and individuals who sell non-conforming parts to the U.S. military.”
Assistant United States Attorney Michael S. Macko handled the case with investigative assistance from the United States Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service.
Darien Center Man Pleads Guilty to Receiving Child Ponography from Young GirlsRead 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 Alexander Seegar, 29, of Darien Center, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci to receipt of child pornography. The charge carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Lamarque who is handling the case, stated that Seegar was sexting 10-12 year old female students at a school in Niagara County, posing as a 16 or 17-year-old boy. The defendant used the Instagram profile “davidlissachi” to communicate with the girls and asked them for sexually explicit photos. Seegar also communicated with other minors between the ages of 10 and 15 and asked them to send him sexually explicit photos in exchange for pictures of male genitalia that he sent them. The defendant was found in possession of numerous photos containing child pornography.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Buffalo Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in Charge Gary Loeffert, and the Lewiston Police Department, under the direction of Chief Frank Previte.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 19, 2019, at 10:30 a.m. before Judge Geraci.
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Dansville Man Sentenced for His Role in Meth RingRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Kenneth Hoag, 57, of Dansville, NY, who was convicted of possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge David G. Larimer to serve 12 months in prison. The defendant was also ordered sell the property known as the Bone Yard, in Dansville, NY, which Hoag used and maintained for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine. Proceeds of the sale of the property totaling $108,438.78 was forfeited to the Government.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katelyn M. Hartford Grace M. Carducci, who handled the case, stated that on April 7, 2017, the defendant sold methamphetamine to an individual at The Bone Yard, located on State Highway 36 in Dansville. Additionally, on April 21, 2017, Hoag possessed in his tool chest a quantity of methamphetamine.
Hoag is one of seven defendants charged and convicted in this case.
Today’s 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 Livingston County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff Thomas Dougherty; and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eric Laughton.
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Deputy Attorney General Recognizes District EmployeeRead the Press Release
Montana U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme, left, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Smith at the 2019 Department of Justice Deputy Director's Award Ceremony in Washington D.C.WASHINGTON – Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Smith of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Montana was one of 172 members of the Department of Justice recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony today in Washington D.C.
The District of Montana was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building. AUSA Smith was recognized for his work on a case involving public access for a popular trail into the Lee Metcalf Wilderness.
In his prepared remarks, Deputy Attorney General Rosen told the awardees, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded.”
In his prepared remarks, EOUSA Director Crowell said, “The Department of Justice is in truth a deployed force. Your work isn’t easy, but it is vital to the functioning and enduring nature of our democracy. As federal prosecutors, we are held to a higher standard, a standard that requires us to ensure that we uphold the rule of law and the fundamental rules of fairness in every trial, every settlement, every plea, and every legal argument in which we are involved.”
In the public access case, 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in June affirmed a ruling by U.S District Judge Sam E. Haddon that the Forest Service possessed an easement by prescription for itself and the public on a trail known as the Indian Creek Trail, in the Madison Ranger District of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The trail provides public access into the Lee Metcalf Wilderness.
AUSA Smith argued the case before the Circuit Court.
“Mark and his team worked tirelessly on behalf of the United States to protect the rights of the public to access and enjoy public lands. This award is well deserved,” said U.S. Attorney Alme.
The case began in 2014 when the Wonder Ranch, LLC, sued the United States under the Quiet Title Act, claiming that the trail, which crosses its 80-acre parcel east of Cameron, was used by the public by permission of the landowner, and that no public right of access existed. The United States countersued, claiming that a prescriptive easement across the Wonder Ranch for the public and the Forest Service to use the trail had been clearly established through many decades of stock, recreational and commercial use.
After an eight-day trial in 2016, the District Court ruled for the government that a public easement had been established and maintained through generations of use of the trail.
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
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Cottage Grove Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Hash Oil ExplosionRead the Press Release
PORTLAND, Ore.—Eric L. Scully, of Cottage Grove, Oregon, was sentenced today to 78 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release for endangering human life and illegally possessing and manufacturing marijuana during a November 2017 butane honey oil (BHO) explosion in Cottage Grove.
Scully was also sentenced to six months in prison for violating the supervised release conditions of a previous federal money laundering conviction. The two prison sentences will run consecutively, for a total of 84 months in prison.
According to court documents, on November 16, 2017, the Cottage Grove Police and Fire Departments responded to an explosion at a storage facility in Cottage Grove. Officers found Scully at a local hospital where he was being treated for serious burn injuries. Investigators later learned that, at the time of the explosion, at least three other individuals were inside the facility.
Two days later, Cottage Grove Police and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents executed a search warrant at the storage facility. Inside, they found a large, sophisticated, and unlicensed BHO extraction lab. BHO is a concentrated form of marijuana extracted using highly flammable or combustible solvents. During the search, agents found 1,200 pounds of processed marijuana, 728 marijuana plants and over 80 pounds of marijuana extract.
The investigation determined that while manufacturing BHO, one of Scully’s machines, located in a room containing highly combustible materials and equipment, caught fire. The machine and combustibles exploded, injuring Scully and placing the other individuals present at substantial risk of harm.
At the time of the explosion, Scully was on federal supervision stemming from a money laundering conviction from 2016. In that case, Scully owned and operated a large, illegal marijuana grow in Eugene from 2012 through 2014. That investigation found that Scully collected over $1,000,000 in proceeds from his illegal business, which fed a luxury lifestyle of high-end cars, watches, jewelry, clothing, real estate, and firearms. At the time of the search Scully’s properties in 2015, investigators uncovered over 230 pounds of marijuana, 219 marijuana plants, $179,860 in cash, and numerous high-value items and vehicles.
Scully pleaded guilty to money laundering and served a 90-day prison sentence at the beginning of 2017. While in prison, Scully continued to actively develop his illegal BHO business in Cottage Grove, and expanded the operation while on federal supervision up to the date of the explosion.
During sentencing, Scully was ordered to forfeit the personal property used to facilitate his crimes, which includes a truck, trailer, and over $25,000 in cash
On November 15, 2018, Scully pleaded guilty to one count each of endangering human life and illegally possessing and manufacturing marijuana.
This case was investigated by DEA and the Cottage Grove Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Gavin W. Bruce, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Colorado Man, Operating Under the Nicknames “Penissmith” and “Botah” Indicted on Racketeering Charges Related to Darknet Marketplace AlphaBayRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — An indictment was unsealed on June 20, 2019, charging Bryan Connor Herrell, 24, with conspiring to engage in a racketeer influenced corrupt organization, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott for the Eastern District of California and Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division announced.
According to court documents, Herrell was a moderator on the AlphaBay marketplace, an illegal website that operated on the so-called darknet. On AlphaBay, vendors and purchasers engaged in hundreds of thousands of illicit transactions for guns, drugs, stolen identity information, credit card numbers and other illegal items. At the time, AlphaBay was considered to be the world’s largest online drug marketplace.
Allegedly, as a moderator on AlphaBay, Herrell settled disputes between vendors and purchasers. He is also accused of serving as a scam watcher – providing a service dedicated to monitor attempts to defraud AlphaBay users. Herrell went by the monikers “Penissmith” and “Botah” and was paid in Bitcoin for his participation.
On June 1, 2017, a Fresno grand jury indicted the alleged founder of AlphaBay, Alexandre Cazes. On July 5, 2017, the Royal Thai Police, with assistance from the FBI and DEA, executed an arrest warrant for Alexandre Cazes at his residence in Bangkok, in connection with his alleged involvement with AlphaBay. At the time of his arrest, law enforcement discovered Cazes’s laptop open and in an unencrypted state. Agents and officers found several text files that identified the passwords/passkeys for the AlphaBay website, the AlphaBay servers, and other online identities associated with AlphaBay. The indictment against Cazes was dismissed as a result of his death. The investigation of AlphaBay and its former administrators continues.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Sacramento and Philadelphia Field offices of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Paul Hemesath and Grant B. Rabenn, and Senior Counsel Louisa K. Marion of the Department of Justice’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section are prosecuting the case. The Philadelphia United States Attorney’s Office provided substantial assistance.
Herrell is currently in custody.
If convicted, Herrell faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Child porn conviction sends Helena man to prison for 10 yearsRead the Press Release
HELENA—A Helena man who admitted receiving child pornography was sentenced today to 121 months in prison and to a lifetime of supervised release, said U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme.
William Sears Stebbins, 63, pleaded guilty in April to receipt of child porn.
Senior U.S. District Judge Charles Lovell presided. Judge Lovell also ordered Stebbins to pay $21,000 restitution and to forfeit a tablet.
The case began in September 2018 when agents from the Helena Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force got a CyberTipline report from Google that a user had uploaded child porn files, prosecution court records said. Google also provided information that Stebbins was the user of the email account.
An investigation found that the email account had about 6,000 child porn images and that Stebbins, who had worked in Bozeman, had recently moved to Helena to live with a relative. A search of the relative’s home found that Stebbins was in a camper in the yard. Agents seized a tablet found in the camper, and a search of the tablet determined that it contained about 900 images child porn. Stebbins admitted to investigators that the email account was his.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Bartleson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI, the Helena Police Department, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations.
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California Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Exploitation of a ChildRead the Press Release
A man who sexually exploited a child pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
David Vogelpohl, age 21, from Vista, California, was convicted of one count of sexual exploitation of a child. At the plea hearing, Vogelpohl admitted that, in 2018, he persuaded, induced, or enticed a female under 18 years old to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions.
Sentencing before United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Vogelpohl remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Vogelpohl faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 30 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, $5,100 in special assessments, and supervised release for 5 years to life following any imprisonment.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, the Mason City Police Department, the North Platte, Nebraska, Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations.
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.”
Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is CR 18-3053.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Brooklyn Man Pleads Guilty to Murder-For-Hire and Marijuana TraffickingRead the Press Release
Leon Campbell, a citizen of Jamaica, pled guilty yesterday at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn to murder-for-hire conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute marijuana. When sentenced, Campbell faces up to 30 years in prison, as well as forfeiture and a fine of up to $1 million. The plea took place before United States Magistrate Judge Robert M. Levy.
Richard P. Donoghue, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the guilty plea.
“Leon Campbell showed total disregard for human life, seeking to have a hired gun kill someone he suspected of being a federal informant,” stated United States Attorney Donoghue. “The commendable work by our law enforcement partners prevented a murder from taking place.” Mr. Donoghue extended his grateful appreciation to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the United States Marshal Service, and the New York City Police Department for their assistance during the investigation.
According to court filings and facts presented at Campbell’s guilty plea and co-defendant Ronald Williams’ trial last year, on April 26, 2013, DEA agents followed Campbell as he was making a delivery of marijuana to a customer in Brooklyn. Campbell spotted the agents and fled, suspecting his customer was an informant who had provided information to federal law enforcement. On April 30, 2013, Campbell called Williams and offered to pay him $5,000 to kill the suspected informant. Williams agreed to commit the murder and chose a gang member to carry out the contract. Subsequently, when Campbell told Williams that he would personally kill the suspected informant but needed an alibi, Williams responded that it would be better to pay someone else to do the job and “get it right.” The murder was not carried out.
Williams was convicted in January 2018 of all counts, including murder-for-hire conspiracy, following a two-week trial before United States District Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Nathan D. Reilly and Hiral D. Mehta are in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:LEON CAMPBELL (also known as “Country”)
Age: 41
Brooklyn, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 13-CR-419 (LDH)
Bridgeport Resident Charged with Distributing Fentanyl that Caused Overdose Death of Trumbull ManRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that a grand jury in Hartford has returned a four-count indictment charging JOHN MATTHEWS, also known as “Jay” and “Gotti,” 34, and DEANDRA BLOSCHICHAK, also known as “Tash” and “Tosh,” 19, both of Bridgeport, with fentanyl distribution offenses.
This matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
The indictment was returned on June 12, 2019, and was unsealed yesterday after Bloschichak was arrested. Matthews is currently in state custody on related charges.
As alleged in the indictment and statements made in court, on November 1, 2018, a 35-year-old man in Trumbull died of a drug overdose. The Connecticut Medical Examiner subsequently determined the victim’s death was caused by acute fentanyl intoxication. The investigation revealed that Matthews sold the victim the fentanyl that caused the victim’s death.
It is further alleged that Matthews and Bloschichak conspired to distribute fentanyl between September and November 2018.
The indictment charges Matthews and Bloschichak with one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl and heroin, and each with one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. These charges carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count.
The indictment also charges Matthews with one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in the death of another person. If convicted of this charge, Matthews faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 20 years and a maximum of life imprisonment.
“As alleged, John Matthews sold the fentanyl that caused the death of a Trumbull man last November,” said U.S. Attorney Durham. “In 2018, more than 1,000 Connecticut residents died by drug overdose, and fentanyl was a contributing substance in the vast majority of those overdoses. Drug dealers who continue to profit from the deadly opioid trade are warned: When a toxicology report clearly determines the substance that caused an overdose death, and the investigation reveals the indisputable source of that substance, our Office is prepared to charge this very serious, 20-year mandatory minimum offense.”
“Fentanyl is causing great damage to our communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Boyle. “Those who distribute fentanyl are endangering the safety of the citizens of Connecticut. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative local, county and state law enforcement efforts in Connecticut and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Trumbull Police Department and Bridgeport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Michael Gustafson.
Brewer Man Sentenced to Three Years for Lying to a Federal Firearms DealerRead the Press Release
Bangor, Maine: United States Attorney Halsey B. Frank announced that Floyd Chase, 49, of Brewer, Maine, was sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court by Judge Nancy Torresen to three years in prison and three years of supervised release for conspiracy to make false statements to a federal firearms licensee. He pled guilty on November 26, 2018.
According to court records, in late February 2018, Brewer police seized a .380 caliber handgun, crack and heroin while executing a narcotics trafficking search warrant at his residence. A trace of the firearm revealed that it had been purchased about ten days earlier at an area firearms dealer. The ensuing investigation revealed that the defendant and at least two others agreed to lie to the dealer about who was the actual purchaser of the firearm, when, in fact, it was the defendant.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Brewer Police Department, with assistance provided by the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office.
Brazilian National Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements Concerning South Boston School ShootingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brazilian national pleaded guilty today in connection with sending a letter to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that threatened an armed attack on a South Boston school in 2018.
Clebio P. De Lima, 43, a Brazilian national previously residing in Quincy, pleaded guilty to two counts of making false statements to federal authorities. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for July 31, 2019.
In February 2018, USCIS’ Boston Office received an unsigned letter handwritten in Portuguese stating that an individual identified by the name of “Mario” was going to carry out an attack at a South Boston school. The letter stated that Mario had purchased two firearms and that he was looking to buy more. The letter concluded by stating, “I invite you to take action, I trust in you. Thank you for the great security of this country.”
Following an investigation, it was determined that the allegations in the letter were false, and that De Lima sent the letter to USCIS hoping that the federal government would arrest his ex-wife’s boyfriend. During a subsequent interview with federal law enforcement agents in September 2018, De Lima falsely denied any knowledge about the unsigned letter sent to USCIS.
The charging statute provides for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, one year of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. 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 Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of the Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. The case was investigated by the FBI Boston Joint Terrorism Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney George P. Varghese of Lelling’s National Security Unit is prosecuting the case.
Beverly Man Pleads Guilty to Sending Threatening Letters and White Powder to an Online Dating WebsiteRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Beverly man pleaded guilty today to sending nine letters, one of which contained a white powder the defendant described as anthrax and another containing a red substance he described as blood infected with the AIDS virus, to the online dating website OkCupid.com.
Liam MacLeod, 47, pleaded guilty to two counts of mailing threatening communications and two counts of conveying false information and hoaxes. U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patti B. Saris scheduled sentencing for Sept. 18, 2019.
Between September and December 2017, OkCupid’s corporate headquarters in Dallas, Texas, received nine mailings containing either threatening communications and/or suspicious substances. All of the mailings were addressed to OkCupid’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
On or about Sept. 12, 2017, MacLeod mailed an envelope addressed to OkCupid’s CEO in Dallas containing a suspicious white powder, along with a handwritten letter with the following text:
Greetings from Beverly
Ban me will ya
Welcome to the wonderful world of ANTHRAX
Expect a package within the next couple of days
It won’t be ticking but it should be interesting!
MacLeod mailed another envelope on or about Sept. 14, 2017 addressed to OkCupid’s CEO in Dallas containing a typewritten letter with the following message, amongst other text:
How’d you like what I sent you? Aww, go take a powder. Oh, the things I have in store for you! I can go on like this for years. How long can you last?
Incidentally, my father was an angel: That’s Hell’s
Angel to you. You see, we have some pull. Take for
example your vehicles. We now know who owns
what, and where each of you parks his.
Hmm, think of the possibilities!
A third envelope was sent by MacLeod on or about Sept. 20, 2017 to OkCupid’s CEO in Dallas. The envelope and the single piece of white paper it contained each had significant red-brown staining consistent with blood. The next day, MacLeod mailed another letter addressed to OkCupid’s CEO containing a typewritten letter wherein MacLeod indicated that the red-brown staining on the previous letter was blood infected with the AIDS virus.
Between Oct. 4, 2017 and Dec. 21, 2017, MacLeod mailed five additional envelopes addressed to OkCupid’s CEO in Dallas, each containing threatening communications and/or suspicious substances. Each of these mailings generated a response by federal law enforcement in order to rule out the presence of active biological or chemical agents. Laboratory testing later confirmed that the substances contained in the envelopes, including the white powdery substance, did not contain hazardous materials.
The charge of false information and hoaxes provides for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of mailing threatening communications provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. 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 David W. Cronin, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, made the announcement today. The investigation was conducted by the FBI Boston’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, with assistance from the Beverly Police Department. OkCupid and its parent company has been fully cooperative with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason A. Casey of Lelling’s National Security Unit is prosecuting the case.
Benton Pharmacist Sentenced for Theft of Drugs, Carrying Firearm in Kentucky and Idaho Under Domestic Violence OrderRead the Press Release
PADUCAH, Ky. – United States District Court Senior Judge Thomas B. Russell sentenced Kyle W. Humphrey to two years imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release for stealing pre-retail prescription medications, mislabeling prescription medication in order to defraud or mislead, and wrongful use of health information; the defendant was also a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Russell Coleman. Humphrey was also ordered to pay restitution of $21,216.94 to the three victim pharmacies in Kentucky, Illinois, and Idaho.
“Western Kentucky families and patients are safer today because of this outcome,” stated U.S. Attorney Russell Coleman. “I am grateful for the professionalism and mission-focus of the FDA, Calloway County Sheriff’s Office, and ATF throughout this investigation and successful prosecution.”
“Healthcare professionals who disrupt the FDA-regulated supply chain for prescription drugs put the health of all consumers at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark S. McCormack, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice pharmacists and other healthcare professionals who abuse the trust of U.S. consumers and patients.”
Humphrey, 34, plead guilty to the charges on March 27, 2019.
According to a plea agreement, On August 9, 2017, the Calloway County Sheriff's Department executed a search warrant at Humphrey's residence, seizing various quantities of prescription-only restricted drugs (pre-retail medical products). Seized drugs include Eliquis® (apixaban); Strattera® (atomoxetine HCl);ProAir® HF A (albuterol sulfate); Farxiga® (dapagliflozin); Cefprozil; Tamiflu®; Duloxetine;Aripiprazole; Ergocalciferol; Levofloxacin; Bystolic® (nebivolol); Xarelto® (rivaroxaban); Clindamycin Palmitate HCL; Mylan® Norethindrone tablets; Camila® Norethindrone tablets; Testosterone Gel tubes; and Testosterone Cypionate. These substances are prescription medicines regulated under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Humphrey was at all relevant times a pharmacist working at various pharmacies in the area. He stole these drugs from the pharmacies and concealed them at his residence.
On or about April 9, 2017, Humphrey knowingly and unlawfully obtained the personally identifiable health information of "SC" by printing a duplicate prescription label containing the personally identifiable health information of "SC" in furtherance of his duplicate label scheme. After printing this duplicate label, Humphrey affixed this duplicate label to an amber-colored prescription bottle and proceeded to fill this bottle with allopurinol stolen from his employer, Walmart. This conduct was done for personal gain. Sometime after filling this prescription bottle with stolen allopurinol, Humphrey removed a portion of the duplicate label so as to conceal his crime. This conduct caused the allopurinol bottle to be misbranded because the labeling on that prescription bottle was false or misleading. This dispensing was done with the intent to defraud Walmart.
The Benton Walmart pharmacy dispensing logs covering December 2016 and April 2017 indicate that Humphrey was working at the Benton Walmart on December 29, 2016 (the date a prescription was issued to "PB"). On July 17, 2017, HUMPHREY continued to maintain possession of the bottle, with intent to use it for personal gain. "PB" did not give any of her benzonatate to him nor did she ever give him a prescription bottle containing her personally identifiable medical information, nor did she give him permission to possess her personally identifiable medical information outside the scope of his employment.
On August 17, 2017, the Calloway County Family Court issued a Domestic Violence Order restraining Humphrey from further contact with M.R. The Order issued after a hearing of which he received actual notice, and at which he had an opportunity to participate, restraining him from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner, and that by its terms explicitly prohibited the use, attempted use or threatened use of physical force against such intimate partner that would reasonably be expected to cause bodily injury. On January 2, 2018, when Humphrey was subject to the Order, the Calloway County Sheriff’s Office arrested Humphrey for violation of the order, at which time he was in possession of a Sig Sauer 9 mm handgun.
On August 20, 2018, the District Court of the First Judicial District of the State of Idaho issued an Order restraining Humphrey from further contact with H.B. The Order issued after a hearing of which he received actual notice, and at which he had an opportunity to participate, restraining him from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner, and that by its terms explicitly prohibited the use, attempted use or threatened use of physical force against such intimate partner that would reasonably be expected to cause bodily injury. On September 18, 2018, when Humphrey was subject to the Order, federal authorities arrested Humphrey, at which time he was in possession of a Glock 23 .40 caliber pistol.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Madison Sewell. The Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations led the investigation with assistance from Calloway County Sherriff’s Department, and the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) also assisted in the investigation.
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Arizona Man Charged with Attempted Sex Trafficking of A Child and Attempted Transportation of A Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today against Robert Frenchie McGriff, 39, of Mesa, Arizona, charging him with attempted sex trafficking and attempted interstate transportation with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity of a minor female in Stanislaus County, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.
According to court documents, McGriff traveled by bus from Phoenix, Arizona to Turlock, California in June 2019 with the intent of retrieving a minor female in Turlock and transporting her to work for him as a prostitute.
This case was the product of an extensive investigation by the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department’s Special Prosecutions Unit and the Stockton Office of Homeland Security Investigations of the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian W. Enos is prosecuting the case.
If convicted of either charge, McGriff faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years and maximum statutory penalty of life in prison, and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about Internet safety education.
Activity in the United States Attorney's OfficeRead the Press Release
Chief Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl sentenced DIAMOND DAWN HUFFER, 28, of Casper, Wyoming on June 13, 2019 for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Huffer was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. She received sixty months of imprisonment, to be followed by forty-eight months of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $500.00. The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case.
Chief Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl sentenced RYAN CHARLES SPENCER, 36, of Casper, Wyoming on June 13, 2019 for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Spencer was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received sixty months of imprisonment, to be followed by forty-eight months of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $200.00. The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case.
Chief Federal District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl sentenced HARRY THEODORE WETZ, 44, of San Antonio, Texas on June 13, 2019 for felon in possession of a firearm. Wetz was arrested in Casper, Wyoming. He received fifty-one months of imprisonment, to be followed by thirty-six months of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $2,850.00. The Sheridan Police Department, Sheridan County Sheriff Office, and US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case.
19 June 2019
“John Doe” Arrested for Passport FraudRead the Press Release
BOSTON - A Southbridge man whose identity is unknown has been arrested and charged in federal court in Boston with making false statements in an application for a U.S. passport. It is alleged that Doe has used and maintained the identity of a U.S. citizen from Puerto Rico for 36 years.
John Doe, whose true identity is unknown, was charged with one count of false statement in application of a passport. He will appear in federal court in Boston today at 3:30 p.m.
In January 2018, Doe allegedly submitted an application for a United States passport by representing himself as a U.S. citizen from Puerto Rico. He provided the U.S. citizen’s name, place of birth, and Social Security number. The Social Security number Doe provided did not, however, match the individual’s name he was representing as his own.
In support of his passport application, Doe allegedly provided a copy of a birth certificate issued to the victim whose identity he was representing as his own, an expired U.S. passport issued in 1988, an inmate’s identity card issued by the Federal Bureau of Prisons in the victim’s name, a Federal Probation Department urinalysis card in the victim’s name, and a letter from a U.S. Probation Officer Assistant indicating that Doe is currently on Federal Supervised Release.
The passport application and documents were sent to the Boston Passport Agency and subsequently referred to the Fraud Prevention Unit. It was then determined that the Social Security number submitted with the application was valid, but did not match the victim’s name Doe used in his application. On further review, it was determined that the Social Security number used on Doe’s previous passport application from 1988 was in fact a fraudulent number that had never been issued by the Social Security Administration.
Further investigation revealed that Doe, who is on lifetime parole, has used four different names, four different dates of birth, and three different Social Security numbers. Doe has an extensive criminal record dating back to the 1970s. At one time, Doe owned an auto body shop in New York that was used to install electronic hidden compartments in cars to conceal cocaine trafficked from Colombia and money.
The passport fraud charge provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and William B. Gannon, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Boston Field Office, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Weinstein of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Woman Sentenced to Prison for Role in Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Newport News woman was sentenced today to approximately 15 years in prison for conspiring with others to commit armed robberies of businesses throughout southeastern Virginia in December 2014.
According to court documents, Aquilla Jones, 29, worked together with several individuals to rob businesses at gun point. Jones and her co-conspirators would drive around southeastern Virginia in an attempt to identify businesses to be robbed. Once the victim business was identified, Jones would drive her co-conspirators to the business and serve as a look-out while others went inside. The co-conspirators who entered the businesses brandished handguns as money was demanded from the employees. Jones participated in the robbery of eight businesses located in Fredericksburg, Newport News, Chesapeake, Yorktown and Virginia Beach.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Martin Culbreth, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric M. Hurt prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:18-cr-27.
Wilmington Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 130 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – United States Attorney David C. Weiss announced today that U.S. District Court Judge Maryellen Noreika sentenced a Wilmington drug trafficker to 130 months in federal prison for gun and drug offenses committed in Delaware.
According to court documents, Hakim Mowbray, 38, of Wilmington, was arrested in April of 2018 while in possession of a handgun and 60 grams of crack cocaine. This was Mowbray’s third conviction for illegal firearm possession; he was previously convicted of state gun charges in Delaware and federal gun charges in Virginia. After Mowbray’s arrest, law enforcement officials searched his Wilmington home, finding additional powder and crack cocaine, cutting agents, and a press used to repackage kilograms of cocaine.
Commenting on today’s proceedings, U.S. Attorney Weiss noted, “Today’s sentence appropriately reflects the danger that those who use firearms to further their drug sales present to our community. This office will continue to work with the DEA and DSP to investigate and prosecute repeat offenders like Mr. Mowbray.”
Mowbray’s conviction is the result of an investigation spearheaded by the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) Wilmington Group 41 and members of the Delaware State Police (“DSP”) Governor’s Task Force. DEA Group 41 is a part of the New Castle County HIDTA, and comprised of the officers from Delaware State Police, Delaware Department of Probation and Parole, New Castle County Police Department, Newark Police Department, Wilmington Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:18-cr-00069.
Wichita Woman Sentenced for Sex Trafficking of a MinorRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Wichita woman was sentenced today to 14 years in federal prison for sex trafficking of a 16-year-old girl, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Brittany D. Knighton-Harris, 31, Wichita, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of sex trafficking. In her plea, Knighton-Harris admitted she recruited the girl and made arrangements for her to perform sex acts for money in Wichita and later in Topeka. The defendant posted notices on an adult web site advertising the girl’s services.
McAllister commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for their work on the case.
Waterbury Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin Distribution Charge Stemming from Shelton Overdose InvestigationRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RASHAD JOHNSON, 27, of Waterbury, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.
This matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 23, 2016, the Shelton Police Department and emergency medical personnel responded to a suspected overdose at a Shelton residence. At the residence, medical personnel pronounced a 45-year-old female victim deceased. Investigators collected drug and non-drug evidence, including folds containing suspected heroin, and the victim’s cell phone.
Analysis of the victim’s cell phone revealed numerous contacts, including multiple text messages on March 22, 2016, between the victim and a cell phone number connected to Johnson in which the victim arranged to acquire drugs. Investigators subsequently conducted controlled purchases of heroin and fentanyl from Johnson.
Johnson was arrested on federal criminal complaint on January 11, 2019.
Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant on October 9, 2019, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
Johnson is released on a $50,000 bond pending sentencing.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Shelton, Ansonia and Monroe Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Vermont Man Sentenced to 87 Months for Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Concord – United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced that Richard Duncan, 41, of Proctor, Vermont, was sentenced to 87 months in prison on Monday for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents, on August 8, 2018, law enforcement officers encountered Duncan following multiple 911 calls regarding his erratic driving. After leading officers on a high-speed pursuit in his vehicle through Claremont and Newport, New Hampshire, Duncan abandoned his vehicle and continued his flight from law enforcement on foot. A short time later, Duncan was secured and placed under arrest. From Duncan’s vehicle, law enforcement subsequently recovered a Springfield Armory XD handgun, Model XD-9, 9-mm caliber pistol, S/N GM731259, which had a loaded magazine. In addition to the firearm, officers observed numerous glassine bags containing cocaine and additional loaded magazines. At the time of the offense, Duncan was under parole supervision by the State of Vermont for a prior felony conviction.
Duncan previously pleaded guilty on February 28, 2019.
“Armed drug traffickers present a substantial hazard to the general public,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This 87-month sentence should serve as a warning to those who choose to violate federal drug and gun laws. We will not hesitate to bring federal charges against drug traffickers who use firearms when engaging in criminal activity.”
“Working with our law enforcement partners to combat violent crime and to keep guns out of the hands of criminals is ATF’s top priority,” said Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. “Today’s sentencing is another example of the importance of law enforcement partnerships and their effectiveness in protecting the safety and security of communities.”
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Claremont Police Department, Newport Police Department, and New Hampshire State Police, with valuable assistance provided by the Sullivan County Attorney’s Office and the Vermont State Police.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Cam Le.
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Undocumented Immigrant Sentenced to Six Years’ ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
Las Vegas, NV – Luis Ortiz-Menjivar, a 67 year-old El Salvadorian citizen living in Las Vegas, was sentenced today to six years’ incarceration upon his conviction for a felony charge of Deported Alien Found in the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada.
According to court documents, Ortiz had a lengthy criminal history that placed him in the highest possible federal criminal history category for purposes of sentencing. In February 2017, Ortiz was found in Nevada without any valid immigration documents allowing him to be lawfully present in the United States after he had been deported and removed in April 2014 following his conviction for Aggravated Sexual Battery (a felony) in Charlottesville, Virginia.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly M. Frayn prosecuted the case.
Two Individuals Plead Guilty in 64 Pound Methamphetamine BustRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald announced that GONZALO JIMINEZ-PAZ, JR., 22, and REY DAVID LUNA-SANTILLANES, 22, have pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. JIMINEZ-PAZ and LUNA-SANTILLANES were arrested and charged on March 25, 2019. They entered their guilty pleas before Senior Judge David S. Doty in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
According to the defendants’ guilty pleas and documents filed in court, beginning in January 2019, JIMINEZ-PAZ and LUNA-SANTILLANES entered into an agreement with each other and other individuals to distribute methamphetamine. On March 23, 2019, law enforcement officers with the Ramsey County Violent Crime Enforcement Team (VCET) executed a search warrant at a residence in the downtown area of Minneapolis. During execution of the search warrant, officers recovered approximately 64 pounds of suspected methamphetamine, a large sum of U.S. currency, three pounds of suspected heroin, a bag containing unidentified blue pills and two loaded handguns. The methamphetamine was found inside two suitcases in a bedroom closet, the heroin was hidden inside of a shoebox, and a large amount of cash was located in a kitchen cupboard.
If convicted, JIMINEZ-PAZ and LUNA-SANTILLANES face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the St. Paul Police Department, the Ramsey County VCET, the DEA, and the Minnesota State Patrol.
Assistant U.S. Attorney LeeAnn K. Bell is prosecuting the case.
Defendant Information:
GONZALO JIMINEZ-PAZ, JR., 22
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, 1 count
REY DAVID LUNA-SANTILLANES, 22
Minneapolis, Minn.
Convicted:
- Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, 1 count
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Two Assistant United States Attorneys Named Prosecutors of the Year by the Oklahoma Gang Investigators AssociationRead the Press Release
Two Assistant United States Attorneys have been named Prosecutors of the Year by the Oklahoma Gang Investigators Association (OGIA), announced Trent Shores, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma, and Timothy Downing, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma. The recipients were announced at the OGIA’s 23rd Annual Gang Conference on Jun. 18, in Tulsa.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dennis A. Fries and Nicholas J. Patterson were recognized for their extensive prosecutorial work involving members and associates of the Universal Aryan Brotherhood (UAB), a “whites only” prison-based gang with members operating inside and outside of state prisons throughout Oklahoma. Investigations in the Northern and Western Districts of Oklahoma have resulted in the federal prosecution of dozens of UAB members. Fries’ and Patterson’s efforts demonstrate unwavering commitment to the security of communities across Oklahoma and the administration of justice.
“I am pleased to see Assistant U.S. Attorney Dennis Fries recognized for his exemplary work prosecuting gang cases,” said U.S. Attorney Shores. "From prosecuting white supremacist prison gangs to violent street gangs and international drug trafficking organizations, Dennis has proven himself to be a dedicated public servant and stalwart advocate for justice. We are proud of his efforts to keep Oklahomans safe from organized crime.”
“AUSA Patterson has served the people of Oklahoma well by establishing a strong working relationship with federal, state, and local law enforcement and by prosecuting violent UAB members vigorously,” said U.S. Attorney Downing. “My office will continue to bring criminal cases with hefty sentences against violent gang members to make our entire district safer.”
In the Northern District of Oklahoma, Fries indicted 18 key members and associates of the Universal Aryan Brotherhood for their roles in operating and supporting a racketeering enterprise. The indictment, unsealed in February 2019, alleged that the UAB committed nine overt acts of murder, kidnapping, the trafficking of methamphetamine and firearms, money laundering, assault, and robbery as part of their racketeering enterprise. While in prison, members of the gang’s main council are alleged to have used contraband cell phones to communicate their orders and further their enterprise. Fries worked extensively with investigators from Homeland Security Investigations and IRS-Criminal Investigation to navigate the complex and considerable processes associated with developing a racketeering prosecution. The lengthy investigation into the UAB’s operations began in 2012, but evidence gathered dates as far back as 2006.
In the Western District of Oklahoma, Patterson has led the successful prosecution of more than 20 UAB members and associates, many of whom had lengthy histories of violent crime. Three of these cases involved guilty verdicts after jury trials. Patterson’s UAB cases have generally involved the illegal possession of firearms and drug distribution; they have resulted in the seizure of more than 70 firearms, including machine guns and silencers, as well as large quantities of methamphetamine and heroin. In just the past two weeks, for example, Patterson’s work has involved the seizure of approximately four kilograms of methamphetamine. In addition to charging defendants in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area, Patterson has contributed to community safety in more rural areas by charging UAB defendants in, for example, Woodward, Beckham, and Garfield Counties.
These prosecutions are a part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions.
The Oklahoma Gang Investigators Association was established more than 20 years ago. OGIA has taken the lead in gang training around the state. The association is led by federal, state, and local law enforcement gang experts and educates law enforcement as well community groups on the nature and operations of gangs. The group is also involved in charitable donations to gang intervention and prevention organizations.
Two Assistant U.S. Attorneys Named Prosecutors of the Year by the Oklahoma Gang Investigators AssociationRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Two Assistant United States Attorneys have been named Prosecutors of the Year by the Oklahoma Gang Investigators Association (OGIA), announced Timothy J. Downing, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Trent Shores, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma. The recipients were announced at the OGIA’s 23rd Annual Gang Conference on June 18th in Tulsa.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas J. Patterson and Dennis Fries were recognized for their extensive prosecutorial work involving members and associates of the Universal Aryan Brotherhood (UAB), a "whites only" prison-based gang with members operating inside and outside of state prisons throughout Oklahoma. Investigations in the Western and Northern Districts of Oklahoma have resulted in the federal prosecution of dozens of UAB members. Patterson’s and Fries’s efforts demonstrate unwavering commitment to the safety of communities throughout Oklahoma and the administration of justice.
"AUSA Patterson has served the people of Oklahoma well by establishing a strong working relationship with federal, state, and local law enforcement and by prosecuting violent UAB members vigorously," said U.S. Attorney Downing. "My office will continue to bring criminal cases with hefty sentences against violent gang members to make our entire district safer."
"I am pleased to see Assistant U.S. Attorney Dennis Fries recognized for his exemplary work prosecuting gang cases," said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. "From prosecuting white supremacist prison gangs to violent street gangs and international drug trafficking organizations, Dennis has proven himself to be a dedicated public servant and stalwart advocate for justice. We are proud of his efforts to keep Oklahomans safe from organized crime."
In the Western District of Oklahoma, Patterson has led the successful prosecution of more than 20 UAB members and associates, many of whom had lengthy histories of violent crime. Three of these cases involved guilty verdicts after jury trials. Patterson’s UAB cases have generally involved the illegal possession of firearms and drug distribution; they have resulted in the seizure of more than 70 firearms, including machine guns and silencers, as well as large quantities of methamphetamine and heroin. In just the past two weeks, for example, Patterson’s work has involved the seizure of approximately four kilograms of methamphetamine. In addition to charging defendants in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area, Patterson has contributed to community safety in more rural areas by charging UAB defendants in, for example, Woodward, Beckham, and Garfield Counties.
In the Northern District of Oklahoma, Fries indicted 18 key members and associates of the UAB for their roles in operating and supporting a racketeering enterprise. The indictment, unsealed in February 2019, alleged that the UAB committed nine overt acts of murder, kidnapping, the trafficking of methamphetamine and firearms, money laundering, assault, and robbery as part of their racketeering enterprise. While in prison, members of the gang’s main council are alleged to have used contraband cell phones to communicate their orders and further their enterprise. Fries worked extensively with investigators from Homeland Security Investigations and IRS-Criminal Investigations to navigate the complex and considerable processes associated with developing a racketeering prosecution. The lengthy investigation into the UAB’s operations began in 2012, but evidence gathered dates as far back as 2006.
All of these cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses on the most violent offenders and partners with local prevention and re-entry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information, visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
The Oklahoma Gang Investigators Association was established more than 20 years ago. OGIA has taken the lead in gang training around the state. The association is led by federal, state, and local law enforcement gang experts and educates law enforcement as well community groups on the nature and operations of gangs. The group is also involved in charitable donations to gang intervention and prevention organizations.
Twenty-One Drug Traffickers Associated with Nuestra Familia Arrested on Federal Charges in Kings and Tulare CountiesRead the Press Release
FRESNO, Calif. — As part of a multi-agency operation, over 50 individuals were arrested in California on federal and state charges in connection with their drug-trafficking activities after investigation into the criminal activities of individuals associated with the Nuestra Familia prison gang. The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan of the FBI’s Sacramento Field Office, Kings County District Attorney Keith Fagundes, Tulare County District Attorney Tim Ward, Kings County Sheriff David Robinson, and Hanford Police Chief Parker Sever.
The defendants charged federally are:
1) SALVADOR CASTRO, JR., 49, of Pleasant Valley State Prison
2) RAYMOND LOPEZ, 31, of Pleasant Valley State Prison
3) JESSE JUAREZ, 28, of Visalia
4) DANIEL JUAREZ, 27, of Visalia
5) MICHAEL ROCHA, 36, of Visalia
6) ANGEL MONTES, 23, of Visalia
7) RAFAEL LOPEZ, 28, of Visalia
8) MANUEL BARRERA, 24, of Kettleman City
9) MANUEL GARCIA, 33, of Armona
10) JOANN BERNAL, 32, of Armona
11) RAMON AMADOR, 29, of Riverdale
12) RAUL LOPEZ, JR., 48, of Visalia
13) DONAVEN ADKINS, 41, of Hanford
14) RYAN GINES, 39, of Armona
15) DOUG GINES, 48, of Hanford
16) FLORENTINO GUTIERREZ, 37, of Hanford
17) JESUS NUNEZ, 19, of McFarland
18) MARIA NUNEZ, 22, of McFarland
19) LOUIS MOLINA, 48, of Hanford
20) ERNESTO ZIBRAY, 30, of Delano
21) TIFFANY FELLER, 31, of Riverdale.
According to court documents, in March 2019, various agencies partnered in an investigation into the Nuestra Familia prison gang and the Norteño street gang in Kings County. The investigation uncovered that Nuestra Familia was responsible for large-scale trafficking of methamphetamine and other controlled substances, as well as various firearms offenses and other violent crimes.
According to court documents, high-ranking Nuestra Familia members Salvador Castro, Jr. and Raymond Lopez used contraband cell phones from inside Fresno County’s Pleasant Valley State Prison to arrange the transport of illicit narcotics from drug sources in California and Mexico to a stash house in Kings County. From that stash house, gang members outside of the prison coordinated the preparation and delivery of the drugs to distributors throughout Kings and Tulare Counties. The complaint charges several other gang associates, including Angel Montes, Rafael Lopez, Daniel Juarez, Manuel Barrerra, Manuel Garcia, Joann Bernal, Ramon Amador, and Raul Lopez, Jr. with federal drug-distribution crimes.
U.S. Attorney Scott stated: "This coordinated law enforcement operation highlights how federal, state, and local law enforcement partners can work together to target gang activities that make our communities unsafe. When we work together in this way, we are more effective in achieving our shared goal of ensuring public safety. We are committed to combatting and reducing violent crime and drug trafficking, both inside and outside of prison walls."
"The fear and violence that criminal street gangs are perpetrating in our communities cannot be tolerated," said Attorney General Becerra. "We will continue to collaborate with our federal and local partners to reduce crime and keep our communities safe."
"The FBI is dedicated to disrupting and dismantling gangs through intelligence-driven investigations, new and longstanding initiatives, and partnerships—state, local, federal, and trans-national," said FBI Sacramento Field Office Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan. "Yesterday's effort exemplifies our commitment to working with our partners to reduce the impact of gang violence and crime in the communities we serve."
This case was the product of an investigation by the Kings County Gang Task Force; Agents of the Special Operations Unit – a team of agents from the California Department of Justice and the California Highway Patrol; California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; the FBI, Kings County District Attorney's Office, and the Tulare County Sheriff's Office. Drug Enforcement Administration, Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, U.S. Marshals Service, and Homeland Security Investigations all assisted with the takedown. Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly Sanchez, Laurel Montoya, and Justin Gilio are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The OCDETF Program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multi-level attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. 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.
All 21 defendants have been arrested. If convicted, they face a range of maximum sentences, including up to life in prison. Several of the defendants also face a range of mandatory minimum sentences ranging from between five to ten years in prison. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Tuba City Man Sentenced to Prison for Domestic AssaultsRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – On June 17, 2019, Kristopher Smith, of Tuba City, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Diane J. Humetewa to 48 months of imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release. Smith’s 48-month prison term is in addition to the 12 months of prison he previously served in tribal custody. Smith pleaded guilty to two counts of Assault of an Intimate Partner or Dating Partner by Strangulation and one count of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate Partner or Dating Partner on February 27, 2019.
Smith assaulted the victim on August 11, 2015, November 22, 2016, and April 24, 2017. During each assault, Smith inflicted substantial or serious bodily injury, and on two of the three occasions, Smith strangled the victim.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Samuels, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
Taxi Company Owner Who Filed False Tax Returns is SentencedRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that WILLIAM SCALZI, 62, of Durham, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in Bridgeport to three years of probation, the first six months of which Scalzi must serve in home confinement, for filing false tax returns. Judge Bolden also ordered Scalzi to pay a $2,500 fine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Scalzi, the owner of Transportation General, Inc., of West Haven, understated his taxable income by running personal expenses through his company. Scalzi used his company’s credit cards to pay for numerous personal expenses, which were deducted as business expenses on Transportation General’s corporate tax returns. He also did not include these personal expenses as income on his personal tax returns for the 2007 through 2010 tax years.
On February 25, 2019, Scalzi pleaded guilty to one count of subscribing a false tax return.
Scalzi has paid $297,319.31 in restitution to the IRS, which satisfied his criminal and civil tax liabilities for the 2007 through 2010 tax years.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Syrian Man Arrested on Terrorism Charges After Planning Attack on Christian ChurchRead the Press Release
Mustafa Mousab Alowemer, 21, a resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was arrested today based on a federal complaint charging him with one count of attempting to provide material support and resources to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization, and two counts of distributing information relating to an explosive, destructive device, or weapon of mass destruction in relation to his plan to attack a church in Pittsburgh.
The announcement was made by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady for the Western District of Pennsylvania, Assistant Director Michael McGarrity of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division and Special Agent in Charge Robert Jones of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Division.
“Targeting places of worship is beyond the pale, no matter what the motivation,” said Assistant Attorney General Demers. “The defendant is alleged to have plotted just such an attack of a church in Pittsburgh in the name of ISIS. The National Security Division and our partners will continue our efforts to identify and bring to justice individuals in our country who seek to commit violence on behalf of ISIS and other terrorist organizations. I want to thank the agents, analysts, and prosecutors who are responsible for this investigation.”
“Our top priority is protecting the citizens of western Pennsylvania,” said U.S. Attorney Brady. “Every day investigators and prosecutors work tirelessly behind the scenes to disrupt terrorist activity and keep our community safe. While the public does not always see the results of the hard work of these dedicated men and women, this case is a visible demonstration of our commitment to rooting out terrorists and bringing them to justice.”
“Court documents show Mustafa Alowemer planned to attack a church in the name of ISIS, which could have killed or injured many people. Fortunately, his plans were foiled by the full force of the FBI Pittsburgh Joint Terrorism Task Force,” said Assistant Director McGarrity. “The FBI takes threats to churches and other religious institutions extremely seriously and will use all our resources to stop potential terrorist attacks against them.”
“We will use every resource available to identify potential violent actors and protect the public,” said Special Agent in Charge Jones. “Our Joint Terrorism Task Force is dedicated to identifying and bringing to justice those individuals who provide material support to foreign terrorist organizations, promote violent extremism and threaten our national security. The invaluable partnerships the FBI Pittsburgh JTTF has with our federal state and local partners allow us to work tirelessly to protect Americans from terrorism.”
According to an affidavit filed in U.S. District Court in Pittsburgh:
The FBI Pittsburgh JTTF investigation of Mustafa Mousab Alowemer (Alowemer) revealed that Alowemer plotted to bomb a church located on the North Side of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (the Church), using a weapon of mass destruction (i.e., an explosive device). According to Alowemer, his motivation to detonate a device at the Church was to support the cause of ISIS and to inspire other ISIS supporters in the United States to join together and commit similar acts in the name of ISIS. Alowemer also targeted the Church in order to “take revenge for our [ISIS] brothers in Nigeria.” Alowemer was aware that numerous people in or around the Church could be killed by the explosion.
According to the complaint and information provided to the FBI by the Department of Homeland Security, Alowemer was born in Daraa, Syria, and was admitted to the United States as a refugee on Aug. 1, 2016.
In furtherance of the plot to bomb the Church, in May 2019, Alowemer distributed multiple instructional documents related to the construction and use of explosives and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to an individual Alowemer believed to be a fellow ISIS supporter, but who was in fact an FBI employee. Alowemer distributed these documents with the intent that the information be used in the assembly of a destructive device and in furtherance of conducting an attack in support of ISIS. In or around June 2019, Alowemer purchased several items with the belief that they were necessary to assemble a destructive device and with the intention that they be used to construct the explosives that would be detonated in the vicinity of the Church.
In planning the attack, Alowemer used multiple social networking and mobile messenger applications to communicate with an individual whom he believed to be a fellow ISIS supporter. During his communications, Alowemer stated his support for ISIS, and his desire to answer the call for jihad or travel to conduct jihad. Alowemer also distributed propaganda materials, offered to provide potential targets in the Pittsburgh area, requested a weapon with a silencer, and recorded a video of himself pledging an oath of allegiance to the leader of ISIS, Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi.
Between April 16 and June 11, Alowemer met four times in person with an FBI Undercover Employee (UCE) and/or an FBI Confidential Human Source (CHS). At the June 11 meeting with the UCE and CHS, Alowemer provided additional details about the bomb plot and provided the materials he had purchased for construction of the device. Alowemer provided two printed copies of detailed Google satellite maps, which included hand-written markings identifying the Church and routes of arrival and escape. Alowemer also wrote and provided a 10-point handwritten plan (“Confirmation of this operation”) outlining details related to his plot to personally deliver explosives in a backpack. Alowemer expressed a desire to meet one more time to conduct planning and coordination prior to carrying out the attempted bombing in July 2019. That meeting was later scheduled for June 19 in the Pittsburgh area.
A charge is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Members of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force who were directly involved in this investigation include: FBI, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement(ICE)/U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services(USCIS)/Homeland Security Investigations(HSI), Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Secret Service, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Port Authority Police, Allegheny County Probation, University of Pittsburgh Police Department, and UPMC Police Security.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorney Brenda Sue Thornton of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
South Texas Woman Pleads Guilty in Attempt to Smuggle Meth Through CheckpointRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 44-year-old Lyford woman has entered a guilty plea to possessing with the intent to distribute more than 26 kilograms of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.
On April 17, 2019, Jacqueline Barrera drove a white Mitsubishi Lancer into the primary inspection area of the Border Patrol Checkpoint located near Sarita. A search of the vehicle revealed bundles of methamphetamine concealed within speaker boxes in the trunk of the car.
A sentencing hearing was scheduled for Sept. 12, 2019, before United States District Judge David S. Morales. At that time, Barrera faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million fine.
She has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. Thorpe Jr. is prosecuting the case.
South Bay Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to More Than Six Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO – Francisco Puga Camacho was sentenced today to 74 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and related charges announced United States Attorney David L. Anderson and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge John F. Bennett. The sentence was handed down by the Honorable Lucy H. Koh, U.S. District Judge. Puga is the last of seven defendants apprehended and sentenced in connection with the drug distribution scheme.
Puga, 49, of Salinas, Calif., pleaded guilty to the charges on March 6, 2019. The charges stem from an FBI investigation in Monterey County into methamphetamine trafficking networks in and around Salinas. According to court filings, Puga agreed with Horacio Quintana Medina, Joel Quintana Medina, and Jesus Bernal Nunez to distribute methamphetamine to customers. According to Puga’s plea agreement, he conspired to distribute drugs since at least March of 2017. Puga admitted that he was involved in a shipment of drugs intercepted on March 23, 2017. On that date, California Highway Patrol (“CHP”) officers in Salinas pulled over a vehicle for multiple violations of the California Vehicle Code. During the stop and subsequent search of the vehicle, the officers located approximately eight pounds of methamphetamine concealed in the trunk. Puga admitted that he had contacted his source in Mexico to arrange for the delivery of the methamphetamine and that the methamphetamine found in the trunk was the drugs he was arranging for delivery. Further, Puga admitted that on July 15, 2017, he sold approximately two pounds of methamphetamine to a customer in the garage of his residence. Puga admitted that he contacted his source of supply in Mexico to request the two pounds of methamphetamine and that prior to the transaction, he had multiple telephone conversations with the customer to arrange the deal.
On September 26, 2017, a federal grand jury indicted Puga and seven co-defendants, charging them with their respective roles in the methamphetamine trafficking scheme. All of Puga’s codefendants except one have pleaded guilty to charges as follows:
Name
Age
Charges
Date of Sentencing and Sentence
Horacio Quintana Medina
24
21 U.S.C. § 846- conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine
May 29, 2019 and received 68 months of imprisonment, 5 years supervised release.
Joel Quintana Medina
27
21 U.S.C. § 846- conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine
May 22, 2019 and received 60 months of imprisonment, 5 years supervised release.
Jesus Bernal Nunez
44
21 U.S.C. § 841-Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
May 29, 2019 and received 60 months of imprisonment, 5 years supervised release.
Nestor Tavarez
46
21 U.S.C. § 843(b)- Use of a communication facility (telephone) to commit felony drug offense
May 15, 2019 and received 42 months of imprisonment, 3 years supervised release
Alejandro Dominguez Hernandez
38
21 U.S.C. § 841-Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
April 24, 2019 and received 68 months of imprisonment, 5 years supervised release.
Ernesto Calderon Ramirez
23
21 U.S.C. § 841-Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
April 3, 2019, 24 months of imprisonment, 4 years supervised release
Oscar Gonzalez Quevedo remains a fugitive. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Koh ordered Puga to serve a 5-year period of supervised release. Judge Koh ordered Puga to surrender to the Bureau of Prison on or before August 14, 2019, to begin serving his prison term.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeffrey Backhus is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Elise Etter. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI. This case was investigated and prosecuted by member agencies of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, a focused multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force investigating and prosecuting the most significant drug trafficking organizations throughout the United States by leveraging the combined expertise of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
Slidell Man Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements in an Application for a PassportRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that DARRYL SANDERS, a/k/a Daryl Saunders (“SANDERS”), age 62, of Slidell, Louisiana, pled guilty yesterday to making False Statements in an Application for a Passport, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1542.
According to Count 2 of the Indictment, on March 27, 2018, SANDERS knowingly made false statements in an application for a 2018 U.S. Passport when he falsely claimed his name was Daryl Saunders, with a date of birth of 09/03/XXXX.
SANDERS faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment as to each count. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for September 10, 2019, before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Supervisor of the Financial Crimes Unit.
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Syrian Man Arrested on Terrorism Charges After Planning Attack on Christian ChurchRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Mustafa Mousab Alowemer, 21, a resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was arrested today based on a federal complaint charging him with one count of attempting to provide material support and resources to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization, and two counts of distributing information relating to an explosive, destructive device, or weapon of mass destruction in relation to his plan to attack a church in Pittsburgh.
The announcement was made by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady for the Western District of Pennsylvania, Assistant Director Michael McGarrity of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division and Special Agent in Charge Robert Jones of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Division.
“Targeting places of worship is beyond the pale, no matter what the motivation,” said Assistant Attorney General Demers. “The defendant is alleged to have plotted just such an attack of a church in Pittsburgh in the name of ISIS. The National Security Division and our partners will continue our efforts to identify and bring to justice individuals in our country who seek to commit violence on behalf of ISIS and other terrorist organizations. I want to thank the agents, analysts, and prosecutors who are responsible for this investigation.”
“Our top priority is protecting the citizens of western Pennsylvania,” said U.S. Attorney Brady. “Every day investigators and prosecutors work tirelessly behind the scenes to disrupt terrorist activity and keep our community safe. While the public does not always see the results of the hard work of these dedicated men and women, this case is a visible demonstration of our commitment to rooting out terrorists and bringing them to justice.”
“Court documents show Mustafa Alowemer planned to attack a church in the name of ISIS, which could have killed or injured many people. Fortunately, his plans were foiled by the full force of the FBI Pittsburgh Joint Terrorism Task Force,” said Assistant Director McGarrity. “The FBI takes threats to churches and other religious institutions extremely seriously and will use all our resources to stop potential terrorist attacks against them.”
“We will use every resource available to identify potential violent actors and protect the public,” said Special Agent in Charge Jones. “Our Joint Terrorism Task Force is dedicated to identifying and bringing to justice those individuals who provide material support to foreign terrorist organizations, promote violent extremism and threaten our national security. The invaluable partnerships the FBI Pittsburgh JTTF has with our federal state and local partners allow us to work tirelessly to protect Americans from terrorism.”
According to an affidavit filed in U.S. District Court in Pittsburgh:
The FBI Pittsburgh JTTF investigation of Mustafa Mousab Alowemer (Alowemer) revealed that Alowemer plotted to bomb a church located on the North Side of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (the Church), using a weapon of mass destruction (i.e., an explosive device). According to Alowemer, his motivation to detonate a device at the Church was to support the cause of ISIS and to inspire other ISIS supporters in the United States to join together and commit similar acts in the name of ISIS. Alowemer also targeted the Church in order to “take revenge for our [ISIS] brothers in Nigeria.” Alowemer was aware that numerous people in or around the Church could be killed by the explosion.
According to the complaint and information provided to the FBI by the Department of Homeland Security, Alowemer was born in Daraa, Syria, and was admitted to the United States as a refugee on August 1, 2016.
In furtherance of the plot to bomb the Church, in May 2019, Alowemer distributed multiple instructional documents related to the construction and use of explosives and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to an individual Alowemer believed to be a fellow ISIS supporter, but who was in fact an FBI employee. Alowemer distributed these documents with the intent that the information be used in the assembly of a destructive device and in furtherance of conducting an attack in support of ISIS. In or around June 2019, Alowemer purchased several items with the belief that they were necessary to assemble a destructive device and with the intention that they be used to construct the explosives that would be detonated in the vicinity of the Church.
In planning the attack, Alowemer used multiple social networking and mobile messenger applications to communicate with an individual whom he believed to be a fellow ISIS supporter. During his communications, Alowemer stated his support for ISIS, and his desire to answer the call for jihad or travel to conduct jihad. Alowemer also distributed propaganda materials, offered to provide potential targets in the Pittsburgh area, requested a weapon with a silencer, and recorded a video of himself pledging an oath of allegiance to the leader of ISIS, Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi.
Between April 16 and June 11, Alowemer met four times in person with an FBI Undercover Employee (UCE) and/or an FBI Confidential Human Source (CHS). At the June 11 meeting with the UCE and CHS, Alowemer provided additional details about the bomb plot and provided the materials he had purchased for construction of the device. Alowemer provided two printed copies of detailed Google satellite maps, which included hand-written markings identifying the Church and routes of arrival and escape. Alowemer also wrote and provided a 10-point handwritten plan (“Confirmation of this operation”) outlining details related to his plot to personally deliver explosives in a backpack. Alowemer expressed a desire to meet one more time to conduct planning and coordination prior to carrying out the attempted bombing in July 2019. That meeting was later scheduled for June 19 in the Pittsburgh area.
A charge is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Members of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force who were directly involved in this investigation include: FBI, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement(ICE)/U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services(USCIS)/Homeland Security Investigations(HSI), Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Secret Service, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Port Authority Police, Allegheny County Probation, University of Pittsburgh Police Department, and UPMC Police Security.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song of the Western District of Pennsylvania and Trial Attorney Brenda Sue Thornton of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
Related Documents- Criminal Complaint
Rochester Woman Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Kristen Hodgkins, 30, of Rochester, pleaded guilty in federal court to participating in a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning about September 4, 2018, Hodgkins sold methamphetamine to an undercover police officer on multiple occasions. On December 20, 2018, agents traveled to a store in Rochester and located Hodgkins in a vehicle driven by another woman. New Hampshire State Police stopped the vehicle and Hodgkins was arrested on outstanding arrest warrants. During a search of Hodgkins’s bags, a police officer located bags containing approximately 146.4 grams of methamphetamine. Hodgkins subsequently admitted that she had purchased multiple ounces of methamphetamine from her source from August or September 2018 until December 20, 2018.
Hodgkins is scheduled to be sentenced on September 25, 2019.
“Methamphetamine is a growing threat to communities throughout New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “In order to protect the public from the dangers associated with this drug, we will continue to be aggressive in our efforts to identity and prosecute those who are responsible for distributing this dangerous substance.”
This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the New Hampshire State Police and the Rochester Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Davis.
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Rochester Man Arrested, Charged with Sealing and Cashing Checks from Residential MailboxesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Dennis Morgan, 59, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with bank fraud and mail theft. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Field, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, between July 2018 and the present, multiple complaints of mail theft were reported to law enforcement agencies in the Rochester, NY area, including the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Rochester, Irondequoit, Gates, Brighton, and East Rochester Police Departments. Many complaints involved personal checks being cashed or attempting to do be cashed, that had been placed into residential mailboxes as outgoing mail to be collected by the U.S. Postal Service. The checks had been altered by changing payees and amounts, and were then presented for payment at banks in the area. Approximately $19,127.00 of stolen and fraudulently altered checks have been identified to date.
Specifically, on January 23, 2019, the Irondequoit Police Department received a complaint from a resident (who recently had a check stolen from his mailbox) who observed a white vehicle suspiciously pulled up by his mailbox. The resident confronted the driver of the vehicle, who replied that he was looking for a “temp agency.” As the driver drove away, the resident noted the driver’s New York State license plate number. Between late February and early March 2019, at least five additional incidents were reported involving the reported theft of mail, each involving a white vehicle.
On April 9, 2019, the Brighton Police Department received a report from a resident who stated that he saw someone take mail from his neighbor's mailbox. The resident noted the license plate and took a picture of the vehicle as it drove away. The license plate was the same plate reported in the January 23, 2019 incident.
Subsequent investigation determined that the vehicle belongs to a woman identified as the girlfriend of Dennis Morgan. Investigators also learned that Morgan was arrested or suspected in at least four other incidents involving stolen mail and forged checks.
On March 14, 2019, the Irondequoit Police Department executed a search warrant the girlfriend’s vehicle, at which time a GPS tracker was deployed on the vehicle.
Between March 20 and March 30, 2019, the Irondequoit Police Department received three complaints from residents who placed envelopes containing checks in their mailboxes for pickup by the United States Postal Service. All three checks were stolen out of the mailboxes. A check of the GPS tracker showed the girlfriend’s vehicle at each of the three residences on the same day the check was placed in the mailbox.
On March 28, 2019, the girlfriend transferred her license plate to a different vehicle. On April 17, 2019 the Irondequoit Police Department executed a search warrant on the new vehicle, and deployed another GPS tracker.
On May 31, 2019, a resident filed a complaint with the Irondequoit Police Department indicating that on May 28, 2019, he placed five envelopes containing checks inside his residential mailbox. The next day, one of the checks was cashed at a local financial institution with both the payee and amount payable altered. A check of the GPS tracker again showed that the girlfriend’s vehicle was in the vicinity of both the residence, and the financial institution, on both May 28 and May 29, 2019.
Between March 14 and June 4, 2019, investigators conducted surveillance of Dennis Morgan. During surveillance, the defendant was observed driving both vehicles registered to his girlfriend. On June 3, 2019, an investigator witnessed Morgan remove mail from a mailbox in Irondequoit, and place it inside of his coat pocket.
“The tremendous work done by our partners in local law enforcement in Irondequoit, Rochester, Brighton, and East Rochester really made this case,” noted U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “I commend each of those local Departments for their outstanding investigative efforts and for the assistance they provided in helping to ensure that the sanctity of the United States mail is preserved.”
The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Marian W. Payson and was released on conditions, including home detention.
The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Irondequoit Police Department, under the direction of Chief Richard V. Tantalo; the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief LaRon Singletary; the Brighton Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark T. Henderson; the East Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief Steve Clancy; and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Boston Division Inspector-in-Charge Joseph W. Cronin.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
# # # #
Port Vue Woman Sentenced to 6 Years for Role in New Jersey to Pittsburgh Heroin PipelineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Port Vue, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of six years (72 months), to be followed by four years of supervised release on her conviction of violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence on Krystle Barretto, age 33.
According to information presented to the court, Barretto, who was intercepted over a Title III wiretap, conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distributed more than 100 grams of heroin. The court was further advised that Barretto arranged for approximately 500 bricks (i.e. 25,000 stamp bags) of heroin to be transported from the Paterson, New Jersey area to the McKeesport area, which was seized by law enforcement officers. In addition, the court was made aware that Barretto had a loaded, Glock 17, 9mm handgun, an additional five bricks of heroin, and a large money counter in the bedroom of her residence in Port Vue.
The investigation, which utilized Title III intercepts from December 2014 through April 2015 of 10 different cellular telephones, surveillance, controlled drug purchases, and other investigative techniques, established the existence of a number of overlapping and interrelated drug distribution networks at work in the afflicted regions, which included Clairton, McKeesport, Port Vue, areas in Washington County, Westmoreland County, and New Jersey.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
A federally administered Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted the investigation led to the prosecution of Barretto. The task force is headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is comprised of members drawn from the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Street Task Force including the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Clairton Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department, West Mifflin Police Department, Allegheny County Police Department, Duquesne Police Department, Munhall Police Department, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania State Police. The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
Philadelphia Pill Mill Ringleader Sentenced to over Nine Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced today that Derrick Parks, 47, of Philadelphia, was sentenced to 110 months’ imprisonment and three years’ supervised release by U.S. District Court Judge Joel H. Slomsky. Parks has a prior criminal record, including illegal possession of a firearm.
From March to October 2012, the defendant was the ringleader of a group that conspired to illegally obtain oxycodone pills to sell on the street. Parks secured blank prescription pads from a co-conspirator who worked in a medical office, wrote out false prescriptions for oxycodone, and paid various people to fill the prescriptions in Pennsylvania and Delaware. Parks would then collect all the pills for distribution. During the months that the illegal distribution ring was operating, Parks obtained over 9,500 oxycodone pills.
“My Office is focused on targeting the worst, most dangerous offenders and getting them off the streets,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “In this case, a defendant who had previously been convicted of multiple offenses decided to continue to engage in illegal activity – and this time he concocted a scheme that put thousands of pills on the streets of Philadelphia in the midst of the ongoing opioid epidemic. I’m grateful that the Judge imposed a sentence that will keep the defendant out of our community for many years.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth Abrams.