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Wednesday 13 March 2019
Two Individuals Charged with Firearm Violation, Conspiracy in Connection with Straw Purchase of GunRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY – A federal indictment unsealed Wednesday afternoon charges two individuals with violations of federal law involving the alleged straw purchase of a Beretta PX4 Storm .40-caliber handgun. The handgun was purchased from a federal firearms dealer in Salt Lake City on Sept. 8, 2018.
The firearm remained in the possession of one of the defendants until Oct. 17, 2018, when he loaned it to an acquaintance, identified in the indictment as M.S.R. Five days later, Melvin Rowland used the Beretta to kill University of Utah student Lauren McCluskey.
The indictment alleges Sarah Emily Lady, age 24, of Mapleton, Utah, and Nathan Daniel Vogel, age 21, of Millcreek, Utah, knowingly made false and fictitious statements intended to deceive a firearms dealer while purchasing the firearm. The indictment alleges Lady falsely answered “yes” to a question asking whether she was the actual buyer of the firearm knowing that Vogel was the intended actual purchaser of the firearm.
A straw purchase happens when someone lies on an ATF form to purchase a firearm for an individual who is prohibited from owning a gun or an individual who does not want to wait for the completion of a background check. Lying on federal forms to purchase a firearm for someone is illegal.
“Lauren McCluskey’s death was tragic and heartbreaking. We join so many others in offering our condolences to her family and friends,” U.S. Attorney John W. Huber said today. “While we cannot change what happened that October night in Salt Lake City, we can say that without the conduct alleged in this indictment, this particular handgun would not have been used to take Lauren’s life.”
“The laws of the United States offer safety and predictability when we abide by them. Straw purchases are prohibited under federal law for a reason,” Huber said. “When a firearm is unlawfully acquired or transferred, the firearm ends up in the wrong hands and violence brings tragedy to our community,” Huber said.This indictment does not allege that the defendants were responsible for Miss McCluskey’s death.
“Lying on a federal form to purchase a firearm has very serious consequences,” said ATF Denver Special Agent in Charge Debbie Livingston. “The ATF form 4473 clearly states that making a false statement or misrepresenting one’s self is punishable as a felony under federal law. The consequences of lying goes beyond imprisonment for the individual who fills out the form, it puts the community and public at risk. Our condolences go out to Lauren’s family and friends who have suffered because of conduct related to the straw purchase alleged in this indictment.”
“The University of Utah, Department of Public Safety would like to thank the United States Attorney’s Office and ATF for their assistance with this case. We value the relationship we have with our federal partners,” Dale G. Brophy, Chief of Police at the University of Utah, said.
The charges allege Lady and Vogel conspired to defraud the United States by impeding and obstructing the functions of the ATF in enforcing federal firearms laws and preventing illegal firearms trafficking through the straw purchase of a firearm.
The indictment alleges Lady and Vogel made false statements on the ATF form to circumvent Vogel’s background check and waiting period, because Vogel wanted the firearm immediately. Vogel was “generally discharged” from the Army and was fearful that he could not purchase a firearm without a delay, the indictment alleges.
Between Aug. 30, 2018, and Sept. 8, 2018, Lady and Vogel made plans to meet at a firearms store in Salt Lake City so Vogel could identify the firearm he wished to own and Lady could purchase it for him. The indictment alleges Lady and Vogel text messaged 13 times to arrange the meeting. When they got to the store on Sept. 8, 2018, Lady and Vogel looked at several firearms and Vogel asked questions of the sales person. Vogel pointed out the Beretta handgun, asked the sales person questions about the firearm, and handled it. He gave the Beretta back and moved to the ammunition area of the business to obtain ammunition for the firearm.
Shortly after, Lady began the purchase of the Beretta, answering yes to the question asking if she is the actual transferee/buyer of the firearm. The firearms licensee conducted a background check on Lady that took about 10 minutes and allowed her to purchase the firearm and ammunition. Immediately after the purchase, Lady handed the firearm to Vogel, the indictment alleges.
Lady was arrested Tuesday in Utah and had an initial appearance Wednesday afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Brooke C. Wells. She entered a plea of not guilty to the charges in the indictment. A three-day jury trial was set for May 20, 2019. She was released on conditions of supervised release – including no contact with the co-defendant in the case and a prohibition on possession of firearms or weapons.
An arrest warrant is pending for Vogel.
The maximum potential penalty for a false statement during the acquisition of a firearm is 10 years in federal prison. The conspiracy could has a potential five-year sentence.
Indictments are not findings of guilt. Individuals charged in indictments are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty in court.
Two Charged in White Plains Federal Court for Visa Fraud Conspiracy Involving Moroccan Consulate and Mission in New YorkRead the Press Release
Geoffrey S. Berman, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Christian J. Schurman, Director of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (“DSS”) at the United States Department of State, announced today the arrest of MARIA LUISA ESTRELLA JAIDI (“JAIDI”), who was charged by complaint along with her brother, RAMON SINGSON ESTRELLA (“ESTRELLA”), for their involvement in a conspiracy to commit visa fraud, make materially false statements, and induce aliens to illegally come to, enter, and reside in the United States. JAIDI was arrested today in Ancramdale, New York, and will be presented this afternoon in White Plains federal court before the U.S. Magistrate Judge Paul E. Davison. ESTRELLA remains at large.
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman stated: “As alleged, the defendants abused our nation’s process for admitting consular officials in order to bring domestic workers into this country for their own monetary gain and lifestyle. On top of that, Maria Luisa Estrella Jaidi exploited these workers by not providing them the critical protections and benefits they would have been entitled to had they been properly brought to this country with the appropriate visas. Today’s charges demonstrate that fraud and abuse of this type will not be tolerated.”
DSS Director Christian J. Schurman said: “DSS demonstrated its commitment to protecting the integrity of U.S. travel documents and the rights of foreign nationals visiting the United States. We will continue to pursue those who abuse domestic worker visas to manipulate and exploit their employees for personal gain. DSS’s strong relationship with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, continues to be essential in the pursuit of justice.”
According to the allegations in the Complaint unsealed in White Plains federal court[1]:
From approximately 2006 up to 2016, JAIDI and ESTRELLA conspired with an individual not named as a defendant in the Complaint (“CC-1”) to fraudulently procure visas for at least seven Filipino domestic workers (the “Domestic Workers”). CC-1 is a diplomatic agent accredited to the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Morocco to the United Nations (the “Moroccan Mission”) with the rank of Ambassador. From approximately 1980 through approximately 2016, CC-1 and JAIDI were married.
In order to fraudulently obtain visas for the Domestic Workers, JAIDI and CC-1 caused the Domestic Workers to submit visa applications containing materially false statements and to submit fraudulent employment contracts in support of those visa applications. ESTRELLA – who is JAIDI’s brother and who resides in the Philippines – helped recruit several of the Domestic Workers in the Philippines to work for JAIDI and CC-1 in the United States and instructed the Domestic Workers to make false statements in their visa applications and to officials at the U.S. Embassy in Manila.
In particular, ESTRELLA, JAIDI, and CC-1 caused five of the Domestic Workers to falsely state in their visa applications that they would be employed as secretaries, administrative assistants, or technicians at the Moroccan Mission or at the Consulate General of the Kingdom of Morocco in Manhattan. In addition, ESTRELLA, JAIDI, and CC-1 caused each of the Domestic Workers to submit fraudulent employment contracts to the State Department in support of their visa applications. The fraudulent employment contracts also overstated the Domestic Workers’ salaries, understated their hours, and falsely guaranteed benefits, including, among others, sick leave, dental insurance, and medical insurance.
Once the Domestic Workers arrived in the United States, JAIDI and CC-1 employed the workers as their personal drivers, domestic helpers, farmhands, and assistants at their residence in Bronxville, New York, as well as at their farm in Ancramdale, New York. JAIDI and CC-1 paid the Domestic Workers significantly less than the minimum salary required by law and regularly compelled them to work far in excess of 40 hours per week. In addition, JAIDI and CC-1 generally denied the Domestic Workers the benefits set forth in their employment contracts, compelled the Domestic Workers to work seven days a week, and required the Domestic Workers to surrender their passports.
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JAIDI, 60, of Bronxville, New York, and ESTRELLA 55, of Manila, Philippines, are each charged with one count of conspiracy to commit visa fraud and make materially false statements, which carries a maximum sentence of five years, and one count of conspiracy to induce aliens to illegally come to, enter, and reside in the United States, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.
Mr. Berman praised the outstanding work of the DSS Criminal Fraud Investigations Branch, the DSS Saint Albans Resident Office, the DSS New York Field Office, Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division from the Albany District Office, the Yonkers Police Department, and the New York State Police. In addition, Mr. Berman thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of New York, the Community Development Project at the Urban Justice Center, and the Human Trafficking Program at the Worker Justice Center of New York for their assistance in this investigation.
This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Sam Adelsberg and Gillian Grossman are in charge of the prosecution.
The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the descriptions of the Complaint constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.
Twenty-two people indicted for their roles in a conspiracy to traffic fentanyl, heroin, fentanyl analogues including carfentanil and other drugs, which they sold in Euclid and Cleveland to customers from across Northeast OhioRead the Press Release
Twenty-two people were indicted in federal court for their roles in a conspiracy to traffic fentanyl, heroin, fentanyl analogues including carfentanil and other drugs, which they sold in Euclid and Cleveland to customers from across Northeast Ohio.
Named in the 42-count indictment are: Joseph P. Gray, Jr., 30; Malcolm Gibson, 26; Samuel Gibson, 26; Mark Evans, 44; Westley Siggers, 37; Raqwan Ofield, 22; Paul Bell, 33; Larry Jackson, 30; Ricky Jackson, 29; Brendan Craig, 29; Aaron Crosby, 29; Chino Massey, 30; Shondell Mack, 28; Lejon Kidd, Jr., 22; Da’eon Gray, 22; Aminah Colvin, 25; Shanita Jennings, 29; Leanna Nabulsi, 27; George Salem, 22; Jeffrey Auvil, 36; William Bloomfield, 33, and Christina Gordenier, 42.
According to the indictment:
Gray led a drug trafficking organization that sold heroin, fentanyl, fentanyl analogues (such as carfentanil or acetylfentanyl), crack cocaine and powder cocaine. It concentrated on customers from the east side of Cleveland, Euclid and Lake County. The “heroin” sold by the group was generally fentanyl, fentanyl analogues or a mixture of those drugs and heroin.
Members of the conspiracy used phones in the names of other people to avoid detection by law enforcement. They shared a single “customer phone” that was passed between members of the conspiracy so that customers could obtain drugs at any hour, day or night.
Siggers, Ofield, Ricky Jackson, Crosby, Massey, Kidd and other members of the organization primarily sold to their own customer bases, but coordinated with Gray to keep an inventory of drugs available for sale. The Gray organization discussed not keeping a large inventory of drugs on hand because of the legal and financial risk. They often re-supplied in small quantities, sometimes on a daily basis.
They directed customers to specific locations where they would meet and sell drugs, including a residence on Arcade Avenue in Cleveland, a residence on Huntmere Avenue in Cleveland, the parking lot of a Family Dollar Store in Cleveland and the intersection of East 246th Street and Ellsworth Avenue in Euclid.
They also used a commercial property on Holmes Avenue in Cleveland as a centralized location to weigh and package drugs, conduct drug transaction and counting and dividing drug trafficking profits.
The drug organization accepted payments in cash, through the purchase of gasoline and other goods, and through digital payment services such as Cash App.
Gray and others possessed and used firearms to protect their drug trafficking activities.
Siggers in January 2018 possessed six grams of cocaine and four grams of a mixture of carfentanil, heroin and cocaine in Willoughby.
Siggers also sold a mixture of heroin, fentanyl and fentanyl analogues on June 6, 2018 in Wickliffe, and the buyer overdosed. When officers attempted to stop Siggers, he fled. He possessed 29 grams of fentanyl analogues and nearly five grams of cocaine
Gray on January 8, 2019, possessed a loaded Sig Sauer .40-caliber pistol, two grams of crack cocaine and nearly five grams of fentanyl analogues when he was arrested Cleveland after fleeing from law enforcement. Gray was charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
On January 10, 2019, Gray, Crosby, Ofield and Gray and others possessed at the shop on Holmes Avenue a money counter, a scale, drug packaging materials and a range of drugs, including approximately 37 grams of crack cocaine, four grams of a mixture of heroin, fentanyl and fentanyl analogues, one gram of a mixture of fentanyl, carfentanil and heroin, one gram of a mixture of fentanyl and cocaine.
“These defendants sold deadly drugs, including fentanyl, carfentanil and heroin, to customers who came into Cleveland and Euclid from across the region,” U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman said. “We will aggressively prosecute those who seek to profit from this drug epidemic that has affected so many of our friends and neighbors.”
“This investigation is a result of the dedication of the men and women of the Cleveland OCDETF Strike Force,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. Plancon. “Their efforts have resulted in the arrests of individuals who had no regard for the destruction their drug trafficking actions inflicted on northeast Ohio communities. DEA’s goal is to keep the public safe from the dangers of drug abuse. DEA will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who look to exploit the vulnerabilities of others are brought to justice.
Euclid Police Chief Scott Meyer said: “The Euclid Police Department would like to thank our federal, state, county and local partners. I want to specifically recognize the DEA and our task force partnership with that organization. Law enforcement has an obligation to address the dysfunction, chaos and danger created by those who choose to traffic in drug and gun violence. The Euclid Police Department will continue to proactively address those who participate in illicit and violent activities which have an adverse and negative impact on our community. Euclid is a diverse community of good, hardworking and caring residents. We will continue to work with any individual, group or organization that shares the mission of making Euclid a safe and vibrant community for all.”
"The importance of collaboration and teamwork in law enforcement operations cannot be understated," said Cleveland Police Chief Calvin D. Williams. "This particular investigation spanned multiple counties, cities and communities and would not have come together so comprehensively without the partnerships between the agencies you see here today. The hard work of the investigators, detectives, agents and attorneys has paid off in the indictment announced today."
The case remains under investigation.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Cleveland Division of Police, the Euclid Police Department, and the Suburban Police Anti-Crime Network, which includes the police departments of Lyndhurst, Highland Heights, Mayfield Heights, Mayfield Village and Richmond Heights. This case was investigated as part of the Cleveland Strike Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marisa T. Darden and Elliot Morrison.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. The OCDETF Program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking, money laundering and violent criminal organizations operating domestically and internationally. The principle mission of the OCDETF Program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering and violent criminal organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Toledo man currently serving 18 years in state prison for shooting at police officers indicted in federal court for his role in a conspiracy to traffic fentanyl and heroinRead the Press Release
A Toledo man currently serving 18 years in state prison for shooting at police officers was indicted in federal court for his role in a conspiracy to traffic fentanyl and heroin.
Jayvon Wynne, 23, was indicted on one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Others previously indicted in for their alleged roles in the conspiracy include:
Terrance Allen, 25; Nathaniel Barringer, 23; Chad Burkholder, 34; Megan Champion, 40; Ryin Douglas-Reed, 28; Laurie Lehman, 49; Donte Walker, 30, and Russell Watson, 37, all of Toledo.
All are charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least one kilogram of heroin and 400 grams of fentanyl. The conspiracy took place from March 2018 through this month, according to the indictment.
Wynne possessed a Glock 9 mm pistol on July 25, 2017, which he used in furtherance of drug trafficking. On the same day, he possessed more than five grams of heroin, according to the indictment.
“These defendants worked together to sell large amounts of fentanyl, which has killed so many of our neighbors,” U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman said. “We will work with federal agents and police officers to prosecute those who would profit from this drug epidemic.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Eric Smith said: “This group of individuals brought drugs and violence to the streets of our community. Collaborative law enforcement actions will hold them accountable for the danger they have caused.”
“This is just another example of how the Toledo Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation work together to keep all Toledoans safe,” Toledo Police Chief George Kral said. “This operation has identified numerous individuals who, through their actions, have victimized and harmed many. The City of Toledo is a safer place with these people behind bars. Those in our community who continue to sell drugs, carry firearms and victimize others should take notice of these arrests. We now hope that the judiciary will impose the harshest of sentences if convictions are realized.”
"This is yet another example of TPD, working in conjunction with our State and Federal law enforcement partners, taking the most dangerous individuals off of Toledo's streets" said Toledo Police Chief George Kral. "This four year investigation culminated in at least thirty charges on nine different defendants. These individuals posed a clear and present danger to the citizens of this city. As shown by one of the defendants, Jayvon Wynnne, who, in addition to this case, was convicted of shooting at a TPD detective on the night of December 6, 2018. TPD will never stop identifying, investigating, and assisting in the prosecution of Toledo's most prolific offenders."
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Toledo Police Department, the Toledo Metro Drug Task Force and Northwest Ohio Violent Crime Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alissa M. Sterling.
If convicted, the defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of factors unique to this case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record, if any, the defendant’s role in the offense and the characteristics of the violations. In all cases, the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and, in most cases, it will be less than the maximum.
An indictment is a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Tobacco Wholesaler Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Defrauding Connecticut of $5.8 Million in TaxesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PAVAN VASWANI, 40, a citizen of India residing in West Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by two years of supervised release, for his role in a scheme to defraud the State of Connecticut of more than $5.8 million in taxes due on tobacco products imported into the state.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the State of Connecticut imposes tax on tobacco products imported into Connecticut for distribution within Connecticut. Tobacco amounts purchased, and taxes due, are reported on Forms OP-300, which are filed with the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services.
For several years until 2012, Rishi Malik and a partner operated Connecticut Discounts LLC, a tobacco wholesale business based in Bridgeport. Through that company, Malik obtained tobacco products from out-of-state suppliers and distributed the products to a network of clients who offered tobacco products for retail sale. While operating Connecticut Discounts, Malik caused OP-300 forms to be filed with the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services, which underreported the amount of tobacco he imported into the state for distribution.
In June 2012, Malik sold Connecticut Discounts to Vaswani. Vaswani, with Malik’s assistance, continued the tobacco wholesale business under the name KDV Discounts, LLC. Between January 2013 and April 2017, KDV acquired almost $12 million in tobacco products, primarily cigars and other products, from suppliers in Pennsylvania, and distributed these products to hundreds of customers in Connecticut that stocked tobacco products for retail sale. On the OP-300 forms that Vaswani filed with the Department of Revenue Services on behalf of KDV, the amounts reported were a small fraction of what KDV actually acquired. Through this scheme, Vaswani failed to report approximately $5,821,057 in tax to the State of Connecticut.
In 2014, Malik registered Discount Deals, LLC, with an address in Sciota, Pennsylvania. Malik held out Discount Deals to be a tobacco distribution business. However, the unit he rented was not a space for a legitimate tobacco business and was maintained to create the appearance that Discount Deals was a legitimate Pennsylvania-based tobacco wholesaler. Between 2014 and at least April 2017, to subvert other federal regulations regarding interstate transport of smokeless tobacco, Malik used Discount Deals to purchase more than $1.1 million in smokeless tobacco products from Pennsylvania suppliers. A substantial amount of these smokeless tobacco products were provided to KDV for distribution in Connecticut. Discount Deals made no tax payments to the State of Connecticut between 2014 and 2017, and approximately $400,000 in smokeless tobacco tax was not reported to Connecticut or other states.
Judge Hall ordered Vaswani and Malik to pay restitution of $5,821,057.
Malik and Vaswani were arrested on January 11, 2018. On August 21, 2018, Vaswani pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and to violate the Contraband Cigarette Trafficking Act (“CCTA”), and one count of wire fraud.
Malik, 46, a citizen of India residing in Fairfield, pleaded guilty to the same offenses on October 30, 2018. On February 13, 2019, he was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment. Malik faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.
Vaswani, who is released on a $250,000 bond, is required to report to prison on May 30, 2019.
This matter was being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services, Criminal Investigations Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer R. Laraia and Michael S. McGarry.
Statement of United States Attorney Mike Stuart Regarding West Virginia's Back the Blue License PlateRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart issued the following statement regarding the West Virginia Legislature’s passage of a bill designating a “Back the Blue” license plate.
“It was almost one year ago that I rolled out the proposal for a Back the Blue license plate in partnership with the West Virginia FOP. I am so proud that West Virginia is now one of the first states in the country to have a specialized license plate that will allow West Virginians to recognize, honor and show their support for our law enforcement personnel. The West Virginia Legislature passed House Bill 2846 and it now awaits the Governor’s signature. I want to extend my thanks to the West Virginia FOP and all those involved in making the West Virginia Back the Blue license plate a reality.”
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St. Thomas Man Sentenced to 150 Months in Federal Prison for Transporting a Minor to Engage in Illegal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Osvaldo Tavarez, 48, of St. Thomas, was sentenced today as a result of his conviction for transporting a minor for illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez sentenced Tavarez to 150 months incarceration, a life time of supervised release, and a $100 Special Assessment. As part of his sentence, Tavarez also is required to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, on or around January 30, 2018, Tavarez transported a 13-year old minor child who resided in his household, from the Bovoni area to Mariendahl, where he engaged in sexual intercourse with the minor, which would constitute first-degree aggravated rape under Virgin Islands law.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Everard E. Potter.
St. Croix Man Sentenced to 30 years for Possession of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence and Attempted Murder Following Shooting Incident at Frederiksted Waste SiteRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced today that Daniel Carino, age 37, of St. Croix, was sentenced to ten years of incarceration for possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and to a consecutive sentence of twenty years for attempted murder, by District Court Judge Wilma A. Lewis on March 13, 2019. Judge Lewis also ordered Carino to pay restitution in the amount of $51,786.00 for the victim’s medical expenses, to supervised release for five years and to pay a special assessment of $100.00. She did not impose a fine.
On November 15, 2016, a jury convicted Carino of the charges listed above. Evidence presented at trial established that on December 19, 2015, Carino approached the victim at the Concordia garbage bin site in Frederiksted, St. Croix. An argument ensued during which Carino drew a firearm and shot the victim in the chest and leg. After he was shot, the victim wrestled the firearm away from Carino who ran to his vehicle and drove away. With the aid of his minor son, the victim drove his truck to Queen Mary Highway where he obtained assistance. Later that evening, the victim selected Carino from a photo array while at the hospital emergency room. Police apprehended Carino at a festival event that night.
The case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alphonso Andrews, Jr.
Six Individuals and Two Companies Charged in Illegal Dietary Supplement SchemeRead the Press Release
Six people and two Florida corporations were charged in an indictment for their roles in a scheme to distribute illegal dietary supplements, the Department of Justice announced today.
Phillip Braun, 38, of Boca Raton, Florida, Aaron Singerman, 39, of Delray Beach, Florida, Robert DiMaggio, 49, of Henderson, Nevada, Anthony Ventrella, 41, of Boynton Beach, Florida, David Winsauer, 32, of Boca Raton, Florida, and James Boccuzzi, 34, of Parkland, Florida, were charged in a 14-count indictment that was returned by a federal grand jury in Miami, Florida on March 7, 2019, and was unsealed today. The indictment also charged Blackstone Labs and Ventech Labs, two Florida limited liability companies in Palm Beach County, Florida.
The indictment alleges that the defendants sold hundreds of thousands of illegal products, including anabolic steroids, nationwide and internationally, fraudulently representing that those products and pills were high-quality, legal dietary supplements. According to the indictment, the defendants created an illicit manufacturing company and routed sales of illegal products through trusted distributors, knowing that the products were unsafe or could not legally be sold to consumers.
“Fraud by supplement manufacturers and distributors is extremely dangerous for consumers, who rightly assume that a dietary supplement product sold in stores or online will not contain unapproved drugs,” said Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt for the Department of Justice’s Civil Division. “These products are not safe and that is why we will continue to aggressively pursue and prosecute those who import, manufacture, and distribute dangerous and illegal ingredients for fraudulent purposes.”
“Consumers who use dietary supplements expect those products to be safe. When they contain drugs that are not FDA-approved, the health of the public is put at risk,” said Catherine A. Hermsen, Acting Director, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations. “We will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who place consumers’ health in jeopardy.”
All of the defendants were charged with one count of a conspiracy to defraud consumers and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by selling products labeled as dietary supplements that contained unapproved new drugs, illegal steroids, and other ingredients that were hazardous and prohibited by law. The indictment also charges Braun, an owner of Blackstone Labs, and Singerman, a former company owner, with two counts of introducing a product known as Super DMZ RX 2.0, an unapproved new drug, into interstate commerce. The maximum punishment for the conspiracy to defraud is five years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. The maximum punishment for each of the two counts of introducing an unapproved new drug is three years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.
The indictment further charges Braun, Singerman, and six other defendants with one count of a conspiracy to distribute anabolic steroids, which are Schedule III controlled substances under federal law and which may cause kidney failure, liver damage, and other permanent health problems when misused. The indictment alleges that one person suffered serious bodily injury from the use of one of the steroids involved in the conspiracy. The maximum punishment for the conspiracy to distribute controlled substances is 15 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $500,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.
The indictment additionally charges several defendants in three separate counts of distribution of anabolic steroids and charges Ventrella with one count of possession of an anabolic steroid with the intent to distribute. The maximum punishment for each count of distribution of a controlled substance and for the count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute is 10 years in prison and a fine of $500,000. Finally, Braun and Singerman are each charged with three counts of money laundering. The maximum punishment for each money laundering charge is 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or twice the amount of the property involved in the money laundering transaction.
“Illegal dietary supplements pose a public health risk,” stated U.S. Attorney Fajardo Orshan. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida and our partners at the Food and Drug Administration strive to ensure that consumers are fully apprised of the ingredients contained in the substances they are ingesting. Those who attempt to circumvent the law and create a public safety hazard will be held accountable.”
This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Alistair Reader and David Frank of the Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Branch, with assistance from Daren Grove, Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. The case was investigated by FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations with assistance from Sarah Hawkins of the Office of Chief Counsel.An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Additional information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts may be found at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, visit its website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.
Note: Ongoing updates for victims can be followed at https://www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch/case/united-states-v-braun-etal .
Sioux Falls Woman Charged with Distribution and Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Distribution and Receipt of Child Pornography.
Sharon Dvorak, age 49, was indicted on March 5, 2019. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on March 11, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 20 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, lifetime of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between July 16, 2018, and July 10, 2018, Dvorak knowingly received and distributed, and attempted to receive and distribute, any child pornography, that had been mailed, shipped, and transported in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce by any means, including by computer.
The charge is merely an accusation and Dvorak is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper is prosecuting the case.
Dvorak was released on bond pending trial, which has not been set.
School Athletic Trainer Charged with Enticing A Minor and Production of Child PornographyRead 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 Austin Pratt, 30, of Conesus, NY, was charged by criminal complaint with enticement of a minor and production of child pornography. The charges carry a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on January 12, 2019, the New York State Police were notified by the parents of a teenaged minor girl (the victim) that they found a large amount of text messages on their daughter’s phone from her school athletic trainer, the defendant.
During an interview with the victim, she told investigators that in November 2018, Pratt began texting her. Simple texts regarding an injury the victim suffered led to nude photographs being exchanged between the two using Instagram. Some of the text messages between the defendant and the victim included:
• “I seriously cannot stop thinking about you or wanting you. This is crazy to me for only knowing you for a few weeks and I'm not sure how to navigate these feelings as I'm obviously married and our age difference which plays a huge role in all this. I love talking to you and being around you and all I want is to be with you. I hate the fact that I am 16 years older than you and that we have to hide and be sneaky.”
• “Nothing would happen to you lol. My life would be ruined.” The victim responded, “You get divorce papers and 20 years in jail.” Pratt responded, “Yuppppp... gotta be super sneaky.”Subsequently, according to the complaint, Pratt and the victim engaged in sexual intercourse on January 7, 2019, at the victim’s home.
Pratt made an initial appearance this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jonathan W. Feldman and is being held pending a detention hearing on March 14, 2019, at 9:30 a.m.The complaint is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Eric Laughton, the Rochester Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Gary Loeffert, and the Livingston County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney Gregory J. McCaffrey.
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.
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Schoharie County Man Arrested for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Angel M. Gomez, age 26, of Richmondville, New York, was arrested yesterday on charges of distributing child pornography.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Kevin M. Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Gomez initially appeared yesterday before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart. Today, Gomez waived his right to a detention hearing, subject to renewal of that right upon further notice.
If convicted, Gomez faces at least 5 years and up to 20 years in prison, and a term of post-release supervision of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. Additionally, if convicted, Gomez would be required to register as a sex offender.
This case is being investigated by HSI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily C. Powers.
Rochester Gun Trafficker Pleads GuiltyRead 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 Warren L. Vick, Jr., 32, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to dealing firearms without a license. The charges carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that between June 2018 and August 29, 2018, Vick sold as many as 25 firearms to individuals in the City of Rochester that he illegally obtained in Ohio. At least one of the firearms included a semi-automatic firearm capable of accepting a large capacity magazine which could be loaded with more than 15 rounds of ammunition.
On August 29, 2018, law enforcement officers attempted to stop Vick as he drove a 2016 Dodge Challenger. The defendant drove off, crashed the Challenger, and escaped on foot. Inside the vehicle, officers recovered a .40 caliber handgun and over 40 rounds of ammunition. Vick was arrested on August 31, 2018.
The plea is the culmination of an investigation on the part of and Special Agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito, New York Field Division, the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Simmons, and the United States Marshal Service, under the direction of United States Marshal Charles Salina.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 13, 2019, at 9:15 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.
Restaurant Manager Sentenced for Hiring Illegal AliensRead 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 Jose Sanchez-Ocampo, 38, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to unlawfully employ 10 illegal aliens in a 12-month period, was sentenced to time served by Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. In addition, the defendant is subject to removal proceedings by Homeland Security Invesitgations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo, who handled the case, stated Sanchez-Ocampo was the manager of Don Tequila Restaurant on Allen Street in Buffalo. In that capacity, the defendant hired at least 10 illegal aliens to work at Don Tequila and other restaurants.
Today’s sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kelly; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Jonathan D. Larsen, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, New York Field Office; and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, under the direction of New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.
Princess Anne Man Convicted after Federal Trial for Brandishing a Firearm During and in Furtherance of the Armed Robbery of an Armored Vehicle in Salisbury, MarylandRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal jury today convicted Ryan Shevin Smith, age 39, of Princess Anne, Maryland, for brandishing a firearm during and in furtherance of a crime of violence, specifically, the robbery of an armored vehicle in Salisbury, Maryland on January 22, 2018. Smith had previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit the robbery and to participating in the robbery.
The guilty verdict was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Acting Special Agent in Charge Jennifer L. Moore of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; and Salisbury Police Chief Barbara Duncan.
According to the evidence presented at his two-day trial and court documents, at approximately 7:15 a.m. on January 22, 2018, Smith and his co-defendants, Michael Watts and Orneth South, approached the driver of the armored vehicle as he was removing cash cassettes from an ATM machine at a credit union on Mt. Hebron Road in Salisbury, Maryland. Co-defendant Michael Watts placed a .40-caliber handgun to the driver’s head and disarmed him of his service weapon. Watts testified that he got the .40-caliber handgun from Smith, which was named “Big Nasty,” and that Smith took the gun back after the robbery. Watts then grabbed the driver by the hair and order him to open the door of the armored vehicle. After the driver opened the door, Smith and South removed several bags of money from the vehicle, as well as ATM cassettes filled with cash. Watts then forced the driver into the vehicle, where he used zip ties to secure the driver’s hands. The robbers then fled with the money, stealing a total of $1,324,288. The robbers went to Smith’s residence in nearby Princess Anne and divided the stolen money. South and Watts then left and headed south, toward North Carolina.
On April 20, 2018, Orneth South, age 49, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was arrested on a warrant issued as a result of the robbery, and pleaded guilty to his role in the armored car robbery in Maryland, as well as a robbery in North Carolina. On January 31, 2019, co-defendant Michael Watts, a/k/a “Turtle,” age 42, of Brooklyn, New York, pleaded guilty to his role in the robbery. Watts was arrested on May 18, 2018, in Queens, New York, and at the time of his arrest, was wearing approximately $70,000 in jewelry, including a custom turtle pendant, which was purchased with the proceeds of the armored vehicle robbery. Watts also admitted using his portion of the stolen money to purchase a Mercedes S430 automobile, clothes, two tombstones, and to pay off bills and rent.
The government will be seeking restitution in the full amount of the victim’s loss, which is at least $1,324,288.
Judge Richard D. Bennett has scheduled sentencing for Smith on June 17, 2019, at 3:00 p.m. Judge Bennett has scheduled sentencing for Watts on May 1, 2019 and for South on May 8, 2019, both at 3:00 p.m.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the FBI and the Salisbury Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys P. Michael Cunningham and Paul A. Riley, who are prosecuting the case.
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Prentiss Man Sentenced to Nearly Six Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine PossessionRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss – Clarence Steele, 35, of Perkinston, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to serve 70 months in federal prison, followed by 7 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Steele was also ordered to pay a $10,000 fine.
An investigation by the DEA revealed that Steele was a distributor of methamphetamine in the Perry County area. On February 5, 2018 in Beaumont, Steele sold approximately 28 grams of methamphetamine to a DEA confidential source for $700. On February 20, 2018, also in Beaumont, Steele sold approximately 28 grams of methamphetamine to a DEA confidential source for $700. Steele pled guilty on December 6, 2018 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Prentiss Man Sentenced to 5 years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine PossessionRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss – Rodrickus Easterling, 30, of Prentiss, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to 60 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possessession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Easterling was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
On July 16, 2015, in Prentiss, Mississippi, Easterling and his co-defendant, Hilton Ross, Jr., sold 81.7 grams of methamphetamine to a DEA confidential source for $2,400. Easterling pled guilty on December 6, 2018, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Ross, Jr. pled guilty for his role and was sentenced by Judge Starrett to serve 125 months in federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Hiring Undercover DEA Agent to Murder a Relative in CaliforniaRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to a term of eight years (96 months) in prison and three years of supervised release on one count of using interstate commerce facilities in connection with a murder for hire, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon imposed the sentence upon Brad Lanese, 52. Lanese was originally charged by complaint on December 8, 2017 and detained after his initial appearance and detention hearing.
The court was advised that Brad Lanese and two associates – identified as C.B and his wife, L.D. - ran a large marijuana grow operation in Northern California. When Lanese and L.D. began having difficulties, Lanese was asked to leave the property. Back in Pittsburgh, Lanese contacted a confidential source for the Drug Enforcement Agency and asked that source to travel with him to Northern California in order to rob C.B. and L.D. of the profits from the marijuana grow operation.
On October 31, 2017, Lanese and the confidential source travelled to California. The next day, Lanese and the confidential source met with "Deeds", a DEA operative acting in an undercover capacity who was to provide firearms and logistical support for the robbery. Lanese told "Deeds" that he no longer wanted to rob C.B., but wanted "Deeds" to murder someone instead. Lanese then hired "Deeds" to kill L.D. by injecting L.D. with a fatal dose of heroin/fentanyl mix in the marijuana fields, and pushing L.D.’s body and car over the cliffs and into the Pacific Ocean. Lanese told "Deeds" that once L.D. was dead, he would be able to return to the marijuana grow operation and pay "Deeds" for the murder.
On November 14, 2017, back in Pittsburgh, Lanese confirmed to "Deeds" that he wanted L.D. to be murdered and agreed to pay $30,000 for the murder.
The Drug Enforcement Agency - Pittsburgh Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives - Pittsburgh Division, and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Narcotics and Vice Division, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Agency - Santa Rosa, California Division, conducted the investigation that led to the guilty plea and sentence in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California also assisted in the prosecution of this case.
Pittsburgh Man Facing Multiple Charges after Attempting to Extort an Undercover FBI Task Force Officer as part of a Kidnapping HoaxRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh and charged with violations of the federal robbery, extortion, firearms and narcotics laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The six-count Indictment, returned on March 12, named Kevin Harris, 37, as the defendant. Harris was initially charged by criminal complaint on December 21, 2018. Prior to indictment, on March 11, 2019, a Magistrate Judge conducted a detention hearing on the charges listed in the complaint, and ordered Harris detained pending trial.
According to the Indictment, from in and around September 1, 2017 to September 18, 2018, Harris conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute marijuana. Also on September 18, 2018, Harris is charged with committing Attempted Hobbs Act Extortion, Hobbs Act Robbery, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and/or a drug trafficking crime, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and/or a drug trafficking crime.
According to information presented in the complaint and at the detention hearing, the charges in the indictment relate to Harris’ attempt to extort an undercover FBI Task Force Officer as part of a kidnapping hoax.
The law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 17 years in prison up to life, a fine of $1,000,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Lanni is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Western District of Pennsylvania Opioid Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case. This Task Force is comprised of FBI Special Agents and state and local Task Force Officers, including officers from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Sherriff’s Department, Allegheny County Police, Port Authority Police, Munhall Police Department, Stowe-Rox Police Department, and Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pittsburgh Felon Indicted for Illegally Possessing a Semi-Automatic RifleRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging a resident of Pittsburgh, PA, with a violation of federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment, returned on March 12, named James Robert Snyder, 27, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on February 15, 2019, Snyder illegally possessed a 5.45x39mm caliber semi-automatic Saiga rifle. Snyder was previously convicted of a felony drug offense on October 16, 2014, and is therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
The law provides for a maximum sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pinon Man Sentenced to 4 Years for Distributing MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
PHOENIX– On March 11, 2019, Rodney Vern Buckinghorse, 38 of Pinon, Ariz., was sentenced by District Judge G. Murray Snow to 48 months’ imprisonment. Buckinghorse had previously pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On April 28, 2018, Buckinghorse possessed approximately 84 grams of methamphetamine and intended to distribute it to another person. Buckinghorse is a member of the Navajo Nation.
Navajo Nation Criminal Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. The prosecution was handled by Kiyoko Patterson, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-18-8241-PCT-GMS
RELEASE NUMBER: 2019-032_Buckinghorse
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Philadelphia-Area Doctor Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
A Philadelphia-area doctor pleaded guilty today to illegal distribution of oxycodone.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Special Agent in Charge Michael T. Harpster of the FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Philadelphia Regional Office, Special Agent in Charge Jonathan A. Wilson of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Philadelphia Field Division and U.S. Marshal David B. Webb of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania made the announcement.
Richard Ira Mintz, D.O., 69, of Dresher, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to eight counts of distributing controlled substances outside the scope of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose before U.S. District Court Judge Michael M. Baylson of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 11.
“Richard Ira Mintz violated both his professional duty and the law by selling prescriptions for addictive opioids for individuals he never examined who had no medical need for the drugs,” said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski. “Halting the deadly scourge of opioids requires aggressively pursuing corrupt medical professionals who contribute to the opioid epidemic — and that is precisely why we created this regional Strike Force. I want to commend our prosecutors and all of our Strike Force partners for their ongoing work on this vital law enforcement priority.”
“Instead of adhering to his oath to ‘do no harm,’ this doctor chose to use his prescription pad to do just the opposite: with every stroke of the pen, he pushed dangerous opioids onto the streets and turned an illegal profit,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “It is because of the partnership between the Department of Justice’s Criminal Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney Offices of the District of New Jersey and the Eastern District of Pennsylvania that this doctor will be held accountable for his actions. “
“Yet another long-time physician is caught illicitly pushing pills,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Harpster. “Despite all that education and experience, at some point Richard Mintz’s priorities shifted and his ethics lapsed. Doctors dealing oxycodone to anyone who can pay for it are directly fueling the opioid crisis, and the FBI will continue to investigate and bring to justice medical professionals involved in this dangerous drug diversion.”
“Prescribing deadly opioids without regard to the consequences simply cannot be tolerated,” said HHS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Dixon. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable criminals who scheme to profit from prescribing medically unnecessary drugs.”
“This case is just one of many examples of federal law enforcement agencies working in close cooperation with each other to investigate and prosecute doctors who are prescribing and dispensing controlled substance medications without any legitimate medical purpose,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Wilson.
In pleading guilty, Mintz admitted that, from about July 2016 through about July 2018, he worked at a medical practice in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He admitted that he sold eight fraudulent and medically unnecessary oxycodone prescriptions. Michael Young, charged elsewhere, purchased the 120 tablet 30 mg oxycodone prescriptions for $120 per person. Mintz wrote the prescriptions in the names of three individuals whom he had never met or examined.
This case was investigated by the FBI, HHS-OIG, DEA and the U.S. Marshals Service. Trial Attorney Adam Yoffie of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case.
The Criminal Division’s Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion.
Philadelphia-Area Doctor Pleads Guilty to Eight Counts of Unlawfully Distributing OxycodoneRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced today that Richard Ira Mintz, D.O., 69, of Dresher, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to eight counts of distributing controlled substances outside the scope of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose.
From approximately July 2016 through July 2018, Mintz worked at a medical practice in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he sold fraudulent and medically unnecessary oxycodone prescriptions. Mintz wrote the prescriptions in the names of three individuals whom he had never met or examined.
This case originated as part of a regional Medicare Fraud Strike Force that operates in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and the District of New Jersey. The Strike Force is a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and Department of Health and Human Services to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion.
“Richard Ira Mintz violated both his professional duty and the law by selling prescriptions for addictive opioids for individuals he never examined who had no medical need for the drugs,” said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski. “Halting the deadly scourge of opioids requires aggressively pursuing corrupt medical professionals who contribute to the opioid epidemic — and that is precisely why we created this regional Strike Force. I want to commend our prosecutors and all of our Strike Force partners for their ongoing work on this vital law enforcement priority.”
“Instead of adhering to his oath to ‘do no harm,’ this doctor chose to use his prescription pad to do just the opposite: with every stroke of the pen, he pushed dangerous opioids onto the streets and turned an illegal profit,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “As I stated at the launch of this new regional Strike Force partnership between the Department of Justice’s Criminal Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and the District of New Jersey, combatting the opioid epidemic is a major priority of my Office. “Physicians who abuse their positions of trust within the community for financial gain will be held accountable by my Office.”
“Yet another long-time physician is caught illicitly pushing pills,” said Michael T. Harpster, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Philadephia Field Division. “Despite all that education and experience, at some point Richard Mintz’s priorities shifted and his ethics lapsed. Doctors dealing oxycodone to anyone who can pay for it are directly fueling the opioid crisis, and the FBI will continue to investigate and bring to justice medical professionals involved in this dangerous drug diversion.”
“Prescribing deadly opioids without regard to the consequences simply cannot be tolerated,” said Maureen Dixon, Regional Inspector General, Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable criminals who scheme to profit from prescribing medically unnecessary drugs.”
“This case is just one of many examples of federal law enforcement agencies working in close cooperation with each other to investigate and prosecute doctors who are prescribing and dispensing controlled substance medications without any legitimate medical purpose,” said Jonathan Wilson, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration, Philadelphia Field Division.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Marshals’ Service. Trial Attorney Adam Yoffie of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case.
Owner of Washington, D.C.-Based Durable Medical Equipment Company Sentenced to Prison for Role in $9.8 Million Medicaid Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
The owner of a Washington, D.C.-based durable medical equipment company was sentenced to 42 months in prison today for her role in a scheme to submit $9.8 million in fraudulent claims to Medicaid.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu of the District of Columbia, Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Philadelphia Regional Office and District of Columbia Inspector General Daniel W. Lucas made the announcement.
Waveney Blackman, 71, of Bowie, Maryland, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Thomas F. Hogan of the District of Columbia, who also ordered her to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $9,412,394 in restitution. Blackman also will be required to forfeit $9,431,979. Blackman pleaded guilty in October 2018 to one count of health care fraud.
According to admissions made as part of her plea agreement, from approximately January 2010 through June 2016, Blackman, who owned WaveCare Health Services of Washington, D.C., billed Medicaid for expensive wound care products that were not purchased and not provided. Blackman submitted false and fraudulent claims to Medicaid in the amount of approximately $9.8 million, and obtained in excess of $9.4 million in fraudulent proceeds. The proceeds from the fraudulent billing were traced to two bank accounts, a Mercedes, and seven real properties, all of which were seized by the government in June 2018.
The FBI, HHS-OIG and the District of Columbia’s Office of the Inspector General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case, which was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, under the supervision of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Amy Markopoulos of the Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Miller from the District of Columbia, and Trial Attorney Parker Tobin of the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion. In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
Owner of D.C.-Based Durable Medical Equipment Company Sentenced to 42 Months in Prison for Role in $9.8 Million Medicaid Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The owner of a Washington, D.C.-based durable medical equipment company was sentenced to 42 months in prison today for her role in a scheme to submit $9.8 million in fraudulent claims to Medicaid.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu of the District of Columbia, Assistant Director in Charge Nancy McNamara of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Philadelphia Regional Office and District of Columbia Inspector General Daniel W. Lucas made the announcement.
Waveney Blackman, 71, of Bowie, Maryland, was sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Thomas F. Hogan of the District of Columbia, who also ordered her to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $9,412,394 in restitution. Blackman also will be required to forfeit $9,431,979. Blackman pleaded guilty in October 2018 to one count of health care fraud.
According to admissions made as part of her plea agreement, from approximately January 2010 through June 2016, Blackman, who owned WaveCare Health Services of Washington, D.C., billed Medicaid for expensive wound care products that were not purchased and not provided. Blackman submitted false and fraudulent claims to Medicaid in the amount of approximately $9.8 million, and obtained in excess of $9.4 million in fraudulent proceeds. The proceeds from the fraudulent billing were traced to two bank accounts, a Mercedes, and seven real properties, all of which were seized by the government in June 2018.
The FBI, HHS-OIG and the District of Columbia’s Office of the Inspector General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case, which was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, under the supervision of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Amy Markopoulos of the Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Miller from the District of Columbia, and Trial Attorney Parker Tobin of the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section. Assistance was provided by Paralegal Specialist Robert Fishman of the Fraud Section and Paralegal Specialist Aisha Keys of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion. In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
Oconee Woman Sentenced to 18 Years in Federal Prison on Meth ChargeRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that Tabitha A. Hammond, age 37, of Seneca, South Carolina, was sentenced in federal court after pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins of Spartanburg sentenced Hammond to 216 months in federal prison.
Evidence presented to the court established that on August 8, 2017, an Oconee County deputy sheriff was patrolling in the Fair Play area when he observed a vehicle turn without signaling and then turn quickly into a residence before he could initiate a traffic stop. The vehicle stopped at the residence for just a few minutes and resumed travel. Upon observing a defective break light, he initiated a traffic stop. There were four persons in the car and no one had a valid driver’s license with them. The deputy observed much suspicious behavior, including extreme nervousness, attempts to hide the contents of various bags, and one passenger giving indications of flight. The deputy received consent to search from the driver and located more than five pounds of methamphetamine in a bag belonging to Hammond. After being given her Miranda warnings, Hammond admitted to engaging in drug trafficking activity.
This case was investigated by the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office and the federal Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office prosecuted the case.
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Notice of Court ProceedingsRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina -- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that arraignments have been scheduled for this afternoon in Columbia following the arrests yesterday in the Aiken-area pursuant to the multi-agency and jurisdictional “Operation Gunsmoke.” United States Magistrate Judge Paige Gossett will preside.
WHEN: Wednesday March 13, 2019, at 2:30 p.m.
WHERE: Matthew J. Perry, Jr., Courthouse
Courtroom #7
901 Richland Street
Columbia, SC 29201
The following individuals will be making initial appearances for arraignment and bond purposes:
Heather Collins, 42, of Aiken, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Crack Cocaine, and Methamphetamine, and multiple counts of Distribution of Methamphetamine and Crack Cocaine;
Cornelious F. McKie, 42, of Aiken, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Crack Cocaine, and Methamphetamine, and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Crack Cocaine, and Methamphetamine;
Reihn Dracon Jennings, a/k/a “Red,” 28, of Aiken, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Crack Cocaine, and Methamphetamine, Distribution of Crack Cocaine, multiple counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and Using and Carrying a Firearm During and In Relation to and in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime;
Christopher Johnson, a/k/a “Crip,” 32, of Aiken, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Crack Cocaine, and Methamphetamine, Distribution of Crack Cocaine, and multiple counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon;
Kevin D. Sheppard, a/k/a “Bean O”, 35, of Jackson, South Carolina, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Crack Cocaine, and Methamphetamine, multiple counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Using and Carrying a Firearm During and In Relation to and In Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Dealing in Firearms without a License;
Jerome Morris Simmons, 38, of Aiken, charged with Distribution of Cocaine, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Using and Carrying a Firearm During and In Relation to and In Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Dealing in Firearms without a License;
Keith Williams, 29, of Beech Island, South Carolina, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, Distribution of Methamphetamine, Using and Carrying a Firearm During and In Relation to and In Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and Dealing in Firearms without a License;
Charlie Edward Carter, 31, of Beech Island, charged with Distribution of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and Dealing in Firearms without a License;
Ray Hampton Baughman, 48, of New Ellenton, South Carolina, charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon;
Xavier Mathaney, 26, of Aiken, charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
U.S. Attorney Lydon stated that all charges in the indictments are merely accusations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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North Royalton man sentenced to prison and ordered to repay $245,000 he fraudulently received from Social Security and Ohio Workers’ CompensationRead the Press Release
A North Royalton man was sentenced to seven months in prison and ordered to repay the $245,000 he fraudulently received from Social Security and Ohio Workers’ Compensation.
Louis C. Cooper, 57, previously pleaded guilty to wire fraud and theft of government property.
Cooper fraudulently collected benefits from Social Security and Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation while concealing his employment as a general contractor. Cooper had been entitled to disability payments from a work-related injury in 1996. However, Cooper was required to report to both agencies whether he returned to work, which would terminate his ability to receive continued payments from both agencies, according to court documents.
Cooper developed a scheme where he could conceal his income as general contractor by asking his clients to not pay him directly. For the past eight years, Cooper earned at least $185,000 as a general contractor, but reported to both agencies numerous times that he was too injured to work in order to fraudulently secure an additional $245,000 total from both agencies, according to court documents.
Special Agents Kelly Clark from the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General and Mike George from the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation, Special Investigations Department, conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Payum Doroodian is prosecuting the case.
North Carolina Woman Admits to Embezzling More Than $130K from Connecticut CompanyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that SUSANNA KURUS, 43, of Garner, North Carolina, pleaded guilty today in Hartford federal court to one count of wire fraud stemming from an embezzlement scheme.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Kurus formerly resided in Connecticut and was employed as the accounting manager for a company based in Stratford. Between approximately October 2014 and June 2017, Kurus used the company’s financial accounting software to transfer customer credits to at least six personal debit card accounts, and then used the money for her personal benefit. Through this scheme, she stole $133,870.55.
Kurus is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea on June 10, 2019, at which time she faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Kurus is released on a $200,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Connecticut Financial Crimes Task Force, U.S. Secret Service and Stratford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ray Miller.
New York Man Charged in Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and CocaineRead the Press Release
ERIE, Pa. – A former resident of Bronx, New York has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on a charges of violating federal drug laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three-count indictment named Jared Devin Gomes, 39, as the sole defendant.
According to the indictment presented to the court, between February 2018 and February 2019, Gomes conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distributed more than 40 grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and 500 grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 120 years in prison, a fine of $15,000,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The EAGLE task force, which is comprised of members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, Bureau of Narcotics Investigation and the Erie Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
New Haven Man Charged with Possessing Stolen FirearmsRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Brian C. Turner, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned an indictment charging ABDURRAHMAN AKHDAR, 26, New Haven, with one count of possession of stolen firearms.
The indictment was returned on February 20, 2019. Akhdar appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna F. Martinez in Hartford and entered a plea of not guilty to the offense.
The indictment alleges that, on November 30, 2015, Akhdar unlawfully possessed, stored and disposed of a Smith & Wesson .380 caliber pistol and a Colt .45 caliber pistol, both of which had travelled in interstate commerce. The indictment further alleges that Akhdar knew or had reasonable cause to believe the firearms were stolen.
If convicted of the offense, Akhdar faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000.
Akhdar is detained pending trial as he is currently serving a state prison sentence.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Hamden Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.
Middle District of North Carolina U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects More Than $2.2 Million in Civil and Criminal Actions for U.S. Taxpayers in Fiscal Year 2018Read the Press Release
Greensboro, NC - U.S. Attorney Matthew G.T. Martin announced today that the Middle District of North Carolina collected $2,235,279.81 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2018. Of this amount, $1,719,336.45 was collected in criminal actions and $515,943.36 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, the Middle District of North Carolina worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $48,379.33 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $1,250.21 was collected in criminal actions and $47,129.12 was collected in civil actions.
As a whole, the Justice Department collected nearly $15 billion in civil and criminal actions in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2018. The $14,839,821,650 in collections in FY 2018 represents nearly seven times the appropriated $2.13 billion ($2,136,750,000) budget for the 94 U.S. Attorneys’ offices.
“The men and women of the U.S. Attorneys’ offices across the country work diligently, day in and day out, to see that the citizens of our nation receive justice. The money that we are able to recover for victims and this country as a whole is a direct result of their hard work,” Director James A. Crowell, IV, Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys.
“Our office is dedicated to protecting our citizens, safeguarding taxpayer resources, and recovering ill-gotten gains from fraud, drug offenses, and other crimes and returning those funds to victims and to the treasury,” said United States Attorney Martin. “In FY2018, our office honored its ongoing commitment to seek justice for victims of crime and hold to account those who seek profit from illegal activities.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of North Carolina, working with partner agencies and divisions, also collected $2,860,479.00 in asset forfeiture actions during FY 2018. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Asset Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
In May, the Middle District of North Carolina collected $55,267.16 from an account in the name of Kimberly Russell Hobson. Hobson, a former accounting and finance employee at High Point Regional Hospital, diverted almost $4 million of hospital funds to her own benefit over a period of approximately ten years. Hobson was sentenced to 102 months in prison and ordered to pay restitution in the full amount of the loss. In addition to the post-judgment collection from Hobson, investigators seized and forfeited cash, numerous vehicles, and other assets she purchased with proceeds of her schemes. All collections and monies recovered through forfeiture will be applied towards restitution in the case.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
The largest civil collections were from affirmative civil enforcement cases, in which the United States recovered government money lost to fraud or other misconduct or collected fines imposed on individuals and/or corporations for violations of federal health, safety, civil rights or environmental laws. In addition, civil debts were collected on behalf of several federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Internal Revenue Service, the Small Business Administration and the Department of Education.
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Member of Large Drug Trafficking Network Pleads Guilty in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today the conviction of an additional individual charged in Operation Hidden Fee in connection with an extensive federal, state, and local investigation by the Middle District Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) aimed at a drug trafficking network based and operating in Baton Rouge. The Indictment filed in this matter charged significant drug trafficking offenses involving heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine, as well as several firearm offenses.
On March 13, 2019, HENRY J. HAYES, age 42, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, appeared before U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick and pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine, distribution of heroin and crack cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Beginning in January 2017 and continuing through July 2017, law enforcement agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration were investigating the drug trafficking activities of James Christian Hull. During the course of this investigation, federal agents identified HAYES as one of Hull's suppliers who furnished Hull with multi-ounce quantities of heroin and crack cocaine on a weekly basis. They sometimes met at locations near Drusilla Dr. in Baton Rouge, where HAYES supplied Hull with ounce amounts of heroin and crack cocaine, which Hull distributed to associates and customers.
On June 13, 2017, during the execution of a search warrant, agents found a number of firearms, large amounts of heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine, and approximately $138,293 in cash at HAYES’ residence in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
HAYES was previously convicted in East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, for possession of ecstasy and sentenced to serve 2.5 years prison.
On July 10, 2018, James C. Hull pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine and heroin, and four counts of unlawful use of communications facility. As part of the plea, Hull admitted to being the head of a narcotics distribution ring involving 21 subordinate drug dealers who operated throughout the Baton Rouge area.
U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “The conviction of another member of this drug gang demonstrates the success that can be realized by cooperation of federal, state, and local law enforcement. I want to thank our prosecutors and all of the law enforcement agencies involved in this prosecution.”
“This investigation highlights the impact multiple agencies can have when they join forces. We will continue to work together with our local law enforcement partners and pursue those who threaten our communities through their criminal activities. The successful prosecution of this individual should put others who engage in this type of activity on notice,” said Brad L. Byerley, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s New Orleans Field Division.
The investigation is yet another effort by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Program, which was established in 1982 to mount a comprehensive attack against organized drug traffickers. Today, the OCDETF Program is the centerpiece of the United States Attorney General’s drug strategy to reduce the availability of drugs by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations and money laundering organizations and related criminal enterprises. The OCDETF Program operates nationwide and combines the resources and unique expertise of numerous federal, state, and local agencies in a coordinated attack against major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations.
This ongoing investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration with invaluable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Baton Rouge City Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. Other agencies also assisted in apprehending the defendant, including the U.S. Marshal’s Service, and the Sheriffs’ Offices in Ascension, Iberville, and West Baton Rouge Parishes.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Piedrahita and Lyman Thornton, III.
Massachusetts Woman Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud and Money Laundering Charges Related to Fraudulent Investment SchemeRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Jessica M. Teixeira, 41, of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty in federal court today to wire fraud and money laundering charges, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced.
According to court documents and statements made in court, between December 2015 and November 2017, Teixeira defrauded two New Hampshire investors by selling them a series of securities that were supposedly guaranteed and would generate high rates of return. Teixeira represented herself as a solicitor of high-yield investment funds with connections to investment groups raising funds associated with domestic and foreign real estate developments, who solicited financing through private investors rather than banks. In fact, Teixeira's claims to be connected to high-level investment groups were false, the investment contracts and notes she sold were worthless, and they generated no returns. Teixeira would simply convert the invested funds to her own personal use and benefit, without returning any of the invested funds. In total, the Teixeira obtained approximately $296,250 from the two investors.
A sentencing date for Teixeira was not scheduled during the plea hearing.
“Those who peddle fraudulent investment schemes deprive their victims of their hard-earned money for personal benefit,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “This case is an example of federal law enforcement’s combined effort to identify and prosecute those who commit financial fraud in New Hampshire.”
“Ms. Teixeira’s conduct is a reminder to those who invest that integrity is not found behind every door. Those who defraud investors to unjustly enrich themselves will pay a hefty price,” said Special Agent in Charge Kristina O’Connell, of IRS Criminal Investigations in Boston. “We are proud to bring our financial expertise to joint investigations of this type to help prevent future victims of investment schemes.”
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Davis and Anna Dronzek.
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Mansfield man with long criminal record sentenced to 15 years in prison for firearms crimeRead the Press Release
A Mansfield man with a long criminal record was sentenced to 15 years in prison for a firearms crime.
James D. Butler, 56, was sentenced after a jury last year found him guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Butler possessed a Walther 9 mm pistol and ammunition, on Aug. 24, 2017, despite prior convictions for aggravated arson, aggravated assault, robbery and burglary, according to the indictment.
Butler was arrested after the owner of Madison Sporting Arms in Mansfield complained Butler stole the firearm from his store and showed a police officer video surveillance that recorded the theft, according to court documents.
This case was investigated by the Mansfield Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Howell and Peter Daly.
Man Responsible for Centralia Robberies Gets Six and a Half Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Dazhai Q. Brumfield, 20, has been sentenced to serve 78 months in federal prison for his role in a string of violent robberies committed in 2017 in Centralia, Illinois, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Steven D. Weinhoeft, announced today. Brumfield and a co-defendant, Ernestine Fields, 31, were named in a four-count superseding indictment filed in May 2018. Fields, a Chicago native, pleaded guilty and was sentenced earlier this year to one year and one day in prison. Brumfield, who is from Centralia, pleaded guilty last November to charges of conspiracy and interference with commerce by robbery.
Evidence presented in court established that Brumfield had participated in six armed robberies beginning in September 2017 and ending with his arrest on December 17, 2017. The victim businesses include Fuel-Vend, Huck’s Food Store, Domino’s Pizza, Hunan House and Lincoln Liquor. In three of the robberies, business employees were threatened at gunpoint and then struck in the face or head with the butt of a handgun. Brumfield specifically admitted that during the Huck’s robbery, he struck the cashier in the face with a pistol and then took all the money out of the cash register. Brumfield also admitted that the robberies were planned over Facebook.
As part of his sentence, Brumfield was ordered to repay $2,177 in restitution to the victim businesses. After his prison term is completed, Brumfield will serve three years of supervised release.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI with assistance from the Centralia Police Department.
Man Convicted of Unlawfully Possessing Guns for the Third Time Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who has a history of illegally possessing guns was sentenced today to more than a year in federal prison.
Duane Richard Fisher, age 48, from Rockford, Iowa, received the prison term after an October 9, 2018, guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a felon.
In March 2018, law enforcement found a vehicle registered to Fisher’s girlfriend with a loaded rifle inside, but no occupants, in rural Rockford. Fisher was found hiding in the woods in the area and claimed to be looking for deer antlers. At the guilty plea, Fisher admitted possessing the rifle.
Fisher was previously convicted of possession of a firearm while being an unlawful user of methamphetamine in federal court in 2001 and possession of a firearm by a felon in state court in 2015. He was also convicted of harassment and assault causing bodily injury in 2018.
Fisher was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Fisher was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Fisher is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Nydle and investigated by the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 18-CR-02053.
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Leader of Heroin Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH -A resident of Penn Hills, PA, was sentenced in federal court to 120months’ imprisonment on a charge of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Angelo Everett, age 36.
According to information presented to the court, Angelo Everett was the leader of a drug trafficking organization distributing in Pittsburgh’s Hill District neighborhood. Everett was indicted in connection with a DEA wiretap investigation. The intercepted wiretap communications revealed that Everett and others conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute between 700 grams and one kilogram of heroin between January and September 2016.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF programsupplies 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. United States Attorney Brady commended the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Angelo Everett.
Last Drug Organization Member Sentenced to Prison for Distributing HeroinRead the Press Release
PHOENIX – The last of five members of a Drug Trafficking Organization which distributed heroin throughout Phoenix was sentenced this week by U.S. District Judge Susan M. Brnovich. On Feb. 22, 2019, Jose Lopez-Alvarado, 32, of Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced to ten years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. On Sept. 10, 2018, Jose Rivera-Lugo, 35, of Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced to seven years and six months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. On Sept. 10, 2018, Jhoanna Vargas-Quintana, 30, of Hermosillo, Mexico, was sentenced to five years and ten months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. On Oct. 22, 2018, Irene Thomas, 36, of Phoenix, Ariz., was sentenced to five years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. On March 11, 2019, Jorge Baez-Espinoza, 58, of Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced to five years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. All five defendants had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy or possession with intent to distribute heroin.
A collaborative investigation by federal and local law enforcement agencies showed that from Oct. 16, 2014, to Aug. 1, 2017, Lopez-Alvarado, Rivera-Lugo, Vargas-Quintana, Thomas, and Baez-Espinoza conspired together to possess with intent to distribute over six kilograms of heroin. On May 31, 2017, investigators observed and later seized 250 grams of heroin that Lopez distributed to Baez. Baez possessed a 9mm handgun at the time. On July 31, 2017, Lopez provided several firearms that he knew would be smuggled to Mexico by another person in a car. Investigators stopped the car on its way to Mexico and seized seven firearms, including a shotgun, three assault rifles, a .22 rifle, and two .38 caliber handguns. On Aug. 1, 2017, a federal search warrant was served at Lopez’s residence, resulting in the seizure of approximately five kilograms of heroin and an assault rifle.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Tempe Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Keith Vercauteren, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
CASE NUMBER: CR-17-01165-PHX-SMB
RELEASE NUMBER: 2019-031_ Baez-Espinoza etal
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For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az
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Lancaster Man Sentenced to Nearly 10 Years in Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that Jamarcus Dontaye Patterson, age 36, of Lancaster, South Carolina, was sentenced to 115 months (9.5 years) in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Following the term of imprisonment, Patterson will be on federal supervised release for 3 years. Senior United States District Judge Terry L. Wooten, of Columbia, imposed the sentence.
Evidence presented in court established that on July 13, 2018, deputies with the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of Plyler and Duke Streets after receiving a call that Jamarcus Patterson had pointed a firearm at someone. Deputies observed Patterson, who had outstanding state warrants at the time, walking down Plyler Street. When deputies approached, Patterson fled on foot. He was apprehended shortly thereafter, and deputies recovered a loaded Hi-Point .40 caliber pistol. At the time of the July offense, Patterson was on state bond for a December 24, 2017, weapon charge stemming from an incident at a residence in Lancaster wherein he was found in possession of a Beretta 9mm handgun, which had been stolen from the Lancaster National Guard Armory in November 2017. Patterson was arrested on new state charges, and a federal arrest warrant and complaint was issued charging Patterson with both weapon offenses.
Patterson entered a guilty plea to the July 2018 weapon charge. Following a contested sentencing hearing, the court increased Patterson’s sentence in light of evidence produced by the Government that Patterson had pointed and presented the stolen Beretta 9mm handgun during the December 24, 2017, dispute with a female at a residence in Lancaster.
Federal law prohibits Patterson from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon his prior state convictions: 2002 conviction for assault and battery with intent to kill, wherein he shot someone in the leg; 2013 conviction for burglary 2nd degree, where he and a co-defendant allegedly were armed during a burglary in which a two-month-old child was held at gunpoint; 2013 conviction for attempted strong arm robbery; and 2013 conviction for accessory before the fact to a felony.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Project CeaseFire is South Carolina’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Assistant United States Attorneys Stacey D. Haynes, Chris Taylor, and Elliott Daniels of the Columbia office prosecuted the case.
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Known Gang Associate Sentenced to over 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
GREENSBORO, N.C. B A Greensboro resident and known gang associate was sentenced on March 11, 2019, in federal court in Greensboro, announced United States Attorney Matthew G.T. Martin of the Middle District of North Carolina.
The Honorable William L. Osteen, II, sentenced Derrick Jerell STREETER, 23, of Greensboro, North Carolina, to a 186 month term of imprisonment on charges of felon in possession of a firearm. In addition to 186 months imprisonment, STREETER was ordered to serve five years of supervised release after completing his sentence. STREETER pleaded guilty in December 2018.
On June 12, 2018, members of the Greensboro Police Department Violent Criminal Apprehension Team and North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation were conducting surveillance at the Super 8 Motel, located at 2108 W. Meadowview Road in Greensboro, North Carolina, in an attempt to locate a wanted subject. The wanted subject, STREETER, had several outstanding warrants for a burglary where several firearms were stolen.
During surveillance STREETER and another person exited the front door of the motel and entered a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The car exited the motel parking lot with STREETER in the front passenger seat. GPD VCAT stopped the car at the intersection of Rehobeth Church Road and Vandalia Road in Greensboro.
GPD VCAT detectives approached the vehicle and ordered STREETER to exit from the passenger door. STREETER complied with the commands and was taken into custody. While being taken into custody STREETER acknowledged that he had a gun in his back pocket. GPD VCAT detectives located and removed a .380 caliber Ruger handgun that was loaded with three rounds in the magazine and one round in the chamber. The firearm located on STREETER was verified as being stolen from the burglary that STREETER was wanted for.
Prior to this arrest, STREETER had been convicted of Common Law Robbery with an offense date of September 9, 2013, two Breaking and Entering convictions, the first with an offense date of February 20, 2013 and the second with an offense date of April 13, 2013,and Second Degree Burglary with an offense date of May 12, 2014.
“Reducing violent crime is a top priority. We will continue to partner with Greensboro PD, the SBI, and the ATF to prosecute violent offenders and dismantle violent groups,” said U.S. Attorney Martin. The case was investigated by the Greensboro Police Department, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole R. DuPré.
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Justice Department Awards $1.2 Million to Address Youth Gang Prevention EffortsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – The Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) awarded $1.2 million in grant funding aimed at reducing gang and youth violence in Clark County, specifically the development of programs that are crucial for the prevention, intervention, and suppression of MS-13, a transnational criminal organization, in Clark County.
“The Department of Justice views partnerships with federal, state, and local law enforcement, and community partners as a key component in combating transnational criminal enterprises,” said United States Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office Project Safe Neighborhoods program is a cornerstone of our violent crime prevention strategy and is a proven crime-reduction strategy to take violent offenders off of Nevada’s streets. We are proud to partner with law enforcement and community stakeholders to make Nevada safer.”
The application and administration of the grant is the result of a partnership by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Nevada Office of the Attorney General, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Clark County School District School Police Department, Southwest Gang Information Center, Latin Chamber of Commerce of Nevada, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and with commitments from the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, Nevada Division of Child and Family Services, Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health, Nevada Victims of Crime Program, State of Nevada Advisory Council for Prosecuting Attorneys, and Nevada District Attorneys Association.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office intends to work with its partners to utilize the grant funds to augment its Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program. The grant funds will be utilized to develop and implement culturally-specific and culturally-sensitive programs, conduct outreach, create a customized gang suppression strategy, build information exchange protocols between local jurisdictions and other agencies, and strengthen collaboration among law enforcement, prosecutors, and other key stakeholders. The goal of the program is to dismantle MS-13, disrupt illegal enterprises, incarcerate MS-13 members and affiliates, and eliminate the threat of reprehensible crimes committed by MS-13 such as rape, murder, human trafficking, and robbery, thereby creating safer, healthier neighborhoods while restoring law and order.
PSN is a nationwide program by the Department of Justice that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, the Department announced the reinvigoration of PSN. For more information about PSN, visit www.justice.gov/usao-nv.
More information about the OJJDP can be found at https://www.ojjdp.gov/.
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Jury convicts Beachwood woman of stealing the identities of more than a dozen people and filing false tax returnsRead the Press Release
A jury convicted a Beachwood woman of stealing the identities of more than a dozen people and filing false tax returns.
Aesha Johnson, 41, was convicted on all 29 counts, including conspiracy, wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. She is scheduled to be sentenced later this year.
Her daughter, Brittany Williams, previously pleaded guilty to her role in the conspiracy.
Williams and Johnson, when she was living in West Virginia, conspired together to use stolen identities to file false tax returns with the IRS, seeking tax refunds. Johnson acquired many of these identities through a previous criminal fraud scheme, according to the indictment.
Johnson and Williams used an address associated with the family on East 142nd Street in Cleveland as the address of record for many of the false tax returns. They often communicated with each other using a code that referred to the victims using numbers 1 through 31, and created and used fictitious email accounts in the names of the victims to communicate with the IRS, according to the indictment
Williams filed the false tax returns online, obtained prepaid debit cards in the names of the identity-theft victims and requested the IRS deposit the refunds onto those cards. Williams then withdraw cash or made purchases with the cards, according to the indictment.
“This pair stole people’s identities then used it to steal from taxpayers,” U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman said.
“The defendant who perpetrated this scheme systemically defrauded the government, the taxpaying public, and their identity theft victims,” said William Cheung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the IRS-Criminal Investigation’s Cincinnati Field Office. “This guilty verdict should serve as a stern warning for those engaging in similar conduct: you will be caught, and you will be held accountable.”
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Cronin and Justin Seabury Gould following an investigation by the IRS.
Jefferson Davis County Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 9 years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine PossessionRead the Press Release
Hattiesburg, Miss – Waltario Womack, 32, of Prentiss, Mississippi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to serve 108 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Womack was also ordered to pay a $10,000 fine.
An investigation by the DEA revealed that Womack was a distributor of methamphetamine in the Jefferson Davis County area. On January 29, 2016 in Jefferson Davis County, Womack sold approximately 28 grams of methamphetamine to a DEA confidential source for $1,600. On February 2, 2016, also in Jefferson Davis County, Womack sold approximately 28 grams of methamphetamine to a DEA confidential source for $1,000. Womack pled guilty on December 6, 2018, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shundral H. Cole.
Inmate, Co-Defendants Plead Guilty in Prison Drug Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY – Three defendants involved in scheme to deliver illegal drugs to inmates in prison will be sentenced for their crimes, announced Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. Crystal Avery, 37, of Lithia Springs, GA, Timothy Bailey, 31, of Lawrenceville, GA and Cody Brousshard, 35, of Lawrenceville, GA have all pleaded guilty to criminal charges related to a drug ring operating out of Calhoun State Prison, where Mr. Brousshard was an inmate. Mr. Brousshard entered a guilty plea in December 2018 to one count of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances. Ms. Avery pleaded guilty on Monday, March 11, 2019 to one count Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances and Mr. Bailey pleaded guilty on Tuesday, March 12, 2019 to one count Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances. Avery and Bailey entered their pleas before the Honorable W. Louis Sands and Brousshard entered his plea before the Honorable Leslie A. Gardner in Albany federal court. These charges carry a minimum 10 years to a maximum life term imprisonment and a $10,000,000 fine. The sentencing dates have not been finalized.
According to the facts in the plea agreements, Mr. Brousshard was an inmate in Calhoun State Prison and directed the acquisition, packaging and delivery of methamphetamine to two Georgia prisons on several occasions. On May 21, 2018, Calhoun County deputies located Ms. Avery and Mr. Bailey stuck in field behind Calhoun State Prison in a white ford F-250. The deputies noticed packaging material including saran wrap, vacuum seal bags, and electrical tape inside the truck, all commonly used to disguise contraband being smuggled into the prison. The field is commonly used as a place to hide contraband for inmate work details to retrieve. The deputies were directed to two bundles by Ms. Avery, camouflaged in grass, containing 57 grams of methamphetamine. Mr. Bailey admitted to four deliveries of drug bundles directed by inmate Brousshard, the first two at Dooly State Prison where Mr. Broussard was an inmate before being transferred to Calhoun State Prison.
“Smuggling illegal drugs and other paraphernalia into our prisons is a serious and ongoing problem that puts our prison employees and other inmates in danger. We are targeting these inside jobs, and we will ferret out those inmates attempting to continue their criminal ways while incarcerated, and those on the outside who choose to engage in this unlawful conduct,” said Charles “Charlie” Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia.
The case was investigated by the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Department, the Georgia Department of Corrections and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Leah McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government.
Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Director (Contractor), United States Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.
Indictment: Male Enhancement Pills Were Not “All Natural Herbal Supplements’Read the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man was indicted today on charges of importing and selling misbranded pharmaceutical-grade erectile dysfunction drugs from China that were marketed as herbal remedies for men, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Rick Shepard, 59, Overland Park, Kan., is charged with one count of conspiracy and one count of introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce. The indictment alleges Shephard wholesaled dietary supplements under the label name “Euphoric” to adult novelty stores in multiple states.
The supplements were marketed as “all-natural, herbal supplements for male enhancement.” The label on the products did not reveal that the supplements contained Tadalafil and Sildenafil, pharmaceutical ingredients in FDA-approved prescription drugs Viagra and Cialis. The FDA has determined those drugs are safe to use only under a licensed practitioner’s care because of the possibility of toxicity, life-threatening drops in blood pressure and painful erections that could result in permanent injury.
The indictment alleges Shepard purchased the drugs from a supplier in China. He had the drugs delivered to private shipping and mailing stores throughout the country and then forwarded to him in Kansas. The packages were labeled “healthy food samples.”
If convicted, he faces up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on the conspiracy count and up to three years and a fine up to $250,000 on the misbranding count. The Food and Drug Administration investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble is prosecuting.
OTHER INDICTMENTS
Indictment: Defendants Sold Counterfeit Computer Batteries, Accessories
Raymond Edwards, 50, and Renata Edwards, 58, both of Overland Park, Kan., are charged with conspiracy to traffic in counterfeit trademark goods and labels (count one), trafficking in counterfeit trademark goods (counts 2 through 22), trafficking in counterfeit trademark labels (counts 23 through 27) and mail fraud (counts 28 through 42). The crimes are alleged to have occurred during 2011 through 2015 in Johnson County, Kan.
The government is seeking a forfeiture of more than $429,500, representing the proceeds of the mail fraud, and $1 million, representing the proceeds of trafficking in counterfeit trademark goods.
The indictment alleges the defendants sold computer batteries and accessories under the names Quintic LLC, Synaglobe, Genesis Batteries, Battery Fox and Tech Rover. The indictment alleges the defendants sold counterfeit goods with labels identifying them as computer products sold by Apple, Dell, Hewlett-Packard, Samsung, Sony and others.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Count one, counts two through 22 and counts 23 through 27: Up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $2 million.
Counts 28 through 42: Up to 20 years and a fine up to $250,000.
The FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Johnson County District Attorney’s Office investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chris Oakley and Scott Rask are prosecuting.
Torrey Vashon Banks, 41, Denver, Colo., is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. The crime is alleged to have occurred April 6, 2018 in in Topeka, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Hough is prosecuting.
Tyrone Sanders, 62, Aurora, Colo., is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. The crime is alleged to have occurred Aug. 6, 2018, in Shawnee County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Greg Hough is prosecuting.
Christian A. Hernandez-Calixto, 41, who is not a citizen of the United States, is charged with unlawfully re-entering the United States after being deported. He was found Feb. 21, 2019, in Manhattan, KS.
If convicted, he faces up to two years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hunting is prosecuting.
Edith Rodriguez-Valdez, 22, who is not a citizen of the United States, is charged with unlawfully re-entering the United States after being deported. She was found Feb. 21, 2019 in Manhattan, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to two years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hunting is prosecuting.
Guiber Javier Garcia, 32, a citizen of Mexico, is charged with unlawfully re-entering the United States after being deported. He was found Sept. 24, 2018, in Butler County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart is prosecuting.
Marquez Thomas, 20, who is in federal custody, is charged in a superseding indictment with possession with intent to distribute marijuana (counts one and three), possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking (counts two and four). The crimes are alleged to have occurred in February and March 2019 in Shawnee County, Kan.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Counts one and three: up to five years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Counts two and four: Possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking: Not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000.
The FBI investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Maag is prosecuting.
Monte Alford, 25, Wichita, Kan., is charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine (count one), possession with intent to distribute (heroin), unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking (counts three and seven), unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (counts four, eight and ten), unlawful possession of a stolen firearm (count five) and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine (count six). The crimes are alleged to have occurred November and December 2018 and March 2019, in Sedgwick County, Kan.
Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
Count one: Up to 40 years in federal prison and a fine up to $5 million.
Count two: Up to 20 years and a fine up to $1 million.
Counts three and seven: Not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000.
Counts four, five, eight and ten: Up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000.
Count six: Not less than 10 years and a fine up to $10 million.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Treaster is prosecuting.
Jose Luis Cortes-Diaz, 29, Kansas City, Mo., is charged with one count of making a false statement on a passport and one count of falsely stating he is a citizen of the United States. The crimes are alleged to have occurred in 2016 in Johnson County, Kan.
If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on the first count and up to three years and a fine up to $250,000 on the second count. The Diplomatic Security Service of the U.S. State Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble is prosecuting.
In all cases, defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The indictments merely contain allegations of criminal conduct.
Hunterdon County, New Jersey, Man Charged with Distributing Images of Child Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Hunterdon County, New Jersey, man was arrested by federal agents today for allegedly distributing images of child sexual abuse, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Mark Miller, 61, of Bloomsbury, New Jersey, is charged by criminal complaint with one count of distributing child pornography. He was arrested in his home by agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). He had his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Court Judge James B. Clark III in Newark federal court and was detained without bail.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Miller used a mobile application to distribute files containing images and videos of child pornography, including images of prepubescent children.
The charge of distributing child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito credited special agents of Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Brian A. Michael, with the investigation leading to today’s charge and arrest. He also thanked the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office and N.J. State Police for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean M. Sherman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Newark.
The charge and allegations in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Homestead Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing a Gun and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – An Allegheny County felon has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Michael William Horvwalt, 32, formerly of Homestead, PA, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, on or about January 8, 2019, Horvwalt possessed a firearm and ammunition, despite his prior felony convictions. Federal law prohibits a felon from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Indicate relevant bond/detention information if known
Assistant United States Attorney Ross E. Lenhardt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The United States Probation Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Greer Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison on Child Pornography ChargeRead the Press Release
Greenville, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that Keith D. Cook, age 38, of Greer, South Carolina, was sentenced in federal court after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography. United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins, of Spartanburg, sentenced Cook to 10 years in federal prison and ordered that he serve 20 years under court-ordered supervision after his prison sentence is complete.
Evidence presented to the court established that on January 18, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Cook’s home after receiving information that he was uploading child pornography to a mobile device. Law enforcement recovered Cook’s cell phone and located multiple images of child pornography, some involving prepubescent minors. Cook was questioned and admitted to downloading the child pornography that led to the search warrant. More child pornography was discovered on a work computer at Cook’s place of business.
The case was investigated by agents with the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office and the ICE – Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Bill Watkins of the Greenville office prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Grand Jury Returns IndictmentsRead the Press Release
MADISON, WIS. -- A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Eau Claire Woman Charged with Distributing Methamphetamine and Illegally Possessing a Firearm
Sylvia Erickson, 40, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is charged with five counts of distributing methamphetamine, one count of attempting to possess 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The indictment alleges that Erickson committed the drug offenses between November 12, 2018 and January 7, 2019, and that she possessed a .380 handgun and ammunition on November 20, 2018. One of the distribution counts alleges that on January 7, 2019, she distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
If convicted, Erickson faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each drug count, with the exception of the two counts alleging 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. These charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm has a maximum penalty of 10 years.
The charges against Erickson are the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, West Central Drug Task Force, Eau Claire Police Department, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office, and Eau Claire County Sheriff’s and District Attorney’s Offices. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith P. Duchemin.
Portage County Man Charged with Drug & Gun Crimes
Corey Scheerenberger, 35, Alban, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and with being a felon in possession of firearms. The indictment alleges that on September 27, 2018, he possessed the methamphetamine and three .22 caliber rifles, a .22 caliber pistol, and a .22-250 caliber rifle.
If convicted, Scheerenberger faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the drug charge, and a maximum of 10 years on the felon in possession of firearms charge. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Portage County Sheriff’s Office and the Central Wisconsin Drug Task Force. The prosecution of this case is being handled by United States Attorney Scott C. Blader and Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper.
Edgerton Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Firearms
David Hill, 39, Edgerton, Wisconsin, is charged with being a felon in possession of firearms. The indictment alleges that on February 25, 2019, he possessed a loaded .40 caliber pistol, a .45 caliber pistol, and three rifles.
If convicted, Hill faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Edgerton Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.
Madison Man Charged with Drug & Gun Crimes
Daniel Norris, 31, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing crack cocaine with the intent to distribute, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on January 7, 2019, he possessed 28 grams or more of crack cocaine and a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol.
If convicted, Norris faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison on the drug charge. On the charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years. Federal law requires that any penalty imposed for this charge be served consecutive to any sentence imposed on the drug charge. The maximum penalty for the felon in possession of a firearm charge is 10 years. The charges against Norris are the result of an investigation by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Wegner.
Elkhorn Man Charged with Bank Robbery
Jeffrey A. Campton, 29, Elkhorn, Wisconsin, is charged with bank robbery. The indictment alleges that he robbed the Home Savings Bank on East Washington Avenue in Madison, Wisconsin on September 4, 2018.
If convicted, Campton faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Madison Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan.
The indictments against Erickson, Scheerenberger, Hill, Norris, and Campton have been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address violent crime.
Tomah Man Charged with Crime Involving Methamphetamine
Bobby L. Ostrum, 36, Tomah, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that he possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on November 16, 2018.
If convicted, Ostrum faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Sparta and Tomah Police Departments, the Monroe County Joint Investigative Task Force, and the West Central Metropolitan Enforcement Group. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Schlipper.
Two Federal Prison Inmates Charged with Possessing Controlled Substance
In separate and unrelated indictments, two inmates of the Federal Correctional Institution at Oxford, Wisconsin, are charged with possessing a prohibited object. Demario Angel, 42, is charged with possessing paper containing the chemical compound 5F-ADB, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment against him alleges that he possessed this prohibited object on July 25, 2018.
Christopher Mallett, 37, is charged with possessing pieces of paper containing the chemical compound FUB-AMB, a Schedule I controlled substance. The indictment against him alleges that he possessed this prohibited object on February 22, 2018.
The chemical compounds alleged in these two indictments are both synthetic cannabinoids.
If convicted, Angel and Mallet each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charges against them are the result of investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Prisons – Special Investigative Services. The Angel case is being handled by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Chadwick Elgersma and the Mallett case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Burke.
Man Charged with Escape
Sean Nance, 43, Beloit, Wisconsin, is charged with escape. The indictment alleges that on January 9, 2019, he escaped from the Rock Valley Community Programs Center in Janesville, Wisconsin, where he was confined.
If convicted, Nance faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service. The prosecution of this matter is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Przybylinski Finn.