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Wednesday 21 November 2018
Information: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan in Billings. Indictments handed down by the Grand Jury were unsealed. Indictments are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
CHARLES EUGENE VENDITTI, 41, of Billings, appeared on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute meth and distribution of meth. If convicted of the most serious charge, the defendant faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine and five years supervised release. The case was investigated by the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force. Pacer case reference. 18-147
DAVID CHARLES SPENCER, 45, of Billings, appeared on charges of possession with intent to distribute meth, distribution of meth, use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking offense, prohibited person in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm in a school zone. If convicted of the most serious drug charge, the defendant faces a maximum 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and three years supervised release. If convicted of the most serious firearms charge, the defendant faces a minimum mandatory 10 years in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and three years supervised release. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Pacer case reference. 18-144
If any of the above cases are of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor the progress of the case regularly through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Information: Federal Court arraignmentsRead the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that the following persons were arraigned before U.S. magistrate judges this week. Indictments handed down by the Grand Jury were unsealed. Indictments are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty:
Appearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan in Billings on Nov. 20 and entering Not Guilty pleas were:
ARLYN JUAN CASTRO, 35, of the Northern Cheyenne Reservation, appeared on charges of failing to register as a sex offender. If convicted of the most serious charge, the defendant faces a maximum 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshal’s Service. Pacer case reference. 18-133
EUGENE MAJOR BIGBACK, JR., 59, of the Northern Cheyenne Reservation, appeared on charges of failing to register as a sex offender. If convicted of the most serious charge, the defendant faces a maximum 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshal’s Service. Pacer case reference. 18-132
RENIE RAYMOND JOSEPH FILLION, 34, of Livingston, appeared on charges of distribution of methamphetamine, receipt of a firearm while under indictment and possession of an unregistered firearm. If convicted of the most serious charge, the defendant faces a minimum mandatory five years to 40 years in prison and a $5 million fine. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Pacer case reference. 18-134
FRANCISCO MORALES, 44, of Lubbock, Texas, appeared on charges of conspiracy to possess methamphetamine for distribution and possession of meth for distribution. If convicted of the most serious charge, the defendant faces a minimum mandatory 10 years to life in prison and a $10 million fine. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Pacer case reference. 18-139
If any of the above cases are of interest to your media organization and the community it serves, we encourage you to monitor the progress of the case regularly through the U.S. District Court calendar and the PACER system.
To establish a PACER account, which will allow you to review documents filed in the case, please go to, http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the district court’s calendar, please go to https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.
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Illegal Alien Who Used Another Person’s Social Security Number Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
A man who used another person’s Social Security number to get a job was sentenced November 20, 2018, to more than six months in federal prison.
Jeremias Sanchez-Velasco, age 26, a citizen of Guatemala illegally present in the United States and residing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 23, 2018, guilty plea to one count of misuse of a social security number.
In a plea agreement, Sanchez-Velasco admitted that on October 30, 2014, he used someone else’s social security number on employment and tax documents when applying for work in Hiawatha, Iowa. He also used a fraudulent permanent resident card, also known as a “green card,” when he completed the employment forms. The Alien Registration number on the “green card” had been issued to another person.
Sanchez-Velasco came to the attention of immigration officials when he used the social security number in attempt to title a vehicle in Linn County, Iowa. Sanchez-Velasco was arrested at the Linn County Treasurer’s Office in April 2018 after a clerk discovered that the social security number did not belong to Sanchez-Velasco.
Sanchez-Velasco was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Sanchez-Velasco was sentenced to 195 days’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Sanchez-Velasco is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be turned over to immigration officials.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Iowa Department of Transportation.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 18-CR-54-LRR.
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Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Entering the U.S. for Third TimeRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that Elder Jose Cruz-Arteaga, 45, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty in federal court to illegally re-entering the United States after having been deported.
Evidence presented to the court showed that Cruz was encountered by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)- Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) agents on July 22, 2018, while he was incarcerated at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center in Columbia on unrelated charges. In 2002, Cruz was convicted of Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance (heroin) in Colorado, then deported. He reentered the United States, and in 2004 he was convicted of Felony Possession/Purchase for Sale Narcotics (cocaine) in California and deported again.
Cruz faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. Chief United States District Judge Terry L. Wooten accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Cruz after receiving and reviewing a presentence report prepared by the United States Probation Office.
The case was investigated by agents of ICE-ERO, which is a part of the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant United States Attorney William E. Day, II, of the Columbia office is prosecuting the case.
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INTERPOL Washington Leads U.S. Delegation to the 87th INTERPOL General AssemblyRead the Press Release
The Director of INTERPOL Washington—the U.S. National Central Bureau—served as the U.S. Head of Delegation to the 87th INTERPOL General Assembly held November 18-21, 2018, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein also attended a portion of the gathering. Director Wayne H. Salzgaber led the U.S. team composed of representatives from the Departments of Justice, Homeland Security, State, and Defense, as well as leaders in U.S. State and local law enforcement.
The theme of this year’s gathering is policing in the information age, with sessions addressing how technology will change future threats and how technology can be used by law enforcement to meet these challenges. On the first day of the assembly, Rosenstein amplified the cyber theme of the meeting during prepared remarks presented to the group of international law enforcement officials. He challenged international law enforcement to balance fighting the rise of cybercrime with maintaining the rule of law. “When our successors speak of our time here, give them reason to say that we understood the challenges; we found the solutions; we defended our principles, and we stayed the course to support liberty and justice for all,” he said.
Over the four days, delegates will be updated on counterterrorism, cybercrime, and organized and emerging crime. The General Assembly is composed of delegates appointed by the governments of member countries. As INTERPOL’s supreme governing body, it meets once a year and takes all the major decisions affecting general policy, the resources needed for international cooperation, working methods, finances and programs of activities. The General Assembly also approves new members and elects its Executive Committee, among other matters.
During this assembly, the countries of Kiribati and Vanuatu were approved for membership; while a bid by Kosovo to join was rejected. On the last day, the Assembly elected Kim Yong Yang of the Republic of Korea to serve as INTERPOL president until 2020. Each member country represented has one vote. More than 170 of INTERPOL’s 194 member countries attended the meeting.
A component of the U.S. Department of Justice, INTERPOL Washington is co-managed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. As the designated representative to INTERPOL on behalf of the Attorney General, INTERPOL Washington serves as the national point of contact for all INTERPOL matters, coordinating international investigative efforts among member countries and the more than 18,000 local, state, federal, and tribal law enforcement agencies in the United States.
INTERPOL Washington Director Wayne Salzgaber (left) and Deputy Director Michael Hughes attended the 87th INTERPOL General Assembly.Hutchinson Man Sentenced to 7+ Years for Downloading Child PornRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Hutchinson man was sentenced Tuesday to 90 months in federal prison for downloading child pornography from the internet, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Shane Ragsdale, 31, Hutchinson, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of receiving child pornography. In his plea, he admitted he used a peer-to-peer file-sharing network to download child pornography.
McAllister commended the FBI and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for their work on the case.
Husband and Wife Sentenced to Federal Prison for Selling HeroinRead the Press Release
A married couple who worked together to sell heroin on a daily basis were each sentenced on November 19, 2018, to federal prison terms.
Dino Harrington, age 32, received a sentence of over fifteen years in prison following his May 14, 2018, guilty plea to distribution of heroin within 1,000 feet of a protected location. His wife, Tiffany Youngblood, age 40, received a sentence of over three years in prison following her June 19, 2018, guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl.
In plea agreements, Harrington and Youngblood admitted that, in early March 2018, they sold heroin to an individual at a gas station in Cedar Rapids. Harrington met the individual in the gas station’s restroom, while Youngblood waited outside. Law enforcement stopped Harrington and Youngblood after the sale and Youngblood had a heroin and fentanyl mixture. Harrington and Youngblood both admitted that they intended to sell the heroin and fentanyl mixture. Officers found a loaded handgun in Youngblood’s purse.
According to sentencing documents and information disclosed at the sentencing hearings, Harrington and Youngblood started selling heroin in the Cedar Rapids area in approximately February 2017, and continued to do so until their arrests in March 2018. Harrington had multiple prior drug felony convictions. Youngblood had no prior criminal record.
Harrington and Youngblood were each sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Linda R. Reade. Harrington was sentenced to 188 months’ imprisonment and Youngblood was sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment. Harrington must also serve a six-year term of supervised release after his prison term, while Youngblood is required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Harrington and Youngblood are both being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until they can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin Lightfoot and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force, consisting of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 18-CR-28.
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Hattiesburg Man Gets 96 Months for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Heroin and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – William Russell Oswalt, 29, of Hattiesburg, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett to a total of 96 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, on firearm and drug trafficking charges, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Special Agent in Charge Dana Nichols with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Derryle Smith with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Oswalt was sentenced to 60 months for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and 36 months for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin. He was also ordered to pay $5,000 fine on each charge, for a total of $10,000.
On January 4, 2016, officers with the 12th Circuit Court Narcotics Enforcement Team made an undercover purchase of heroin from Oswalt. On January 17, 2017, officers executed an arrest warrant on Oswalt at a Hattiesburg hotel finding him in possession of marijuana, methamphetamine, digital scales, numerous pills and a loaded firearm. Working with the officers from the Narcotics Enforcement Team, DEA and ATF agents learned that Oswalt had been distributing heroin in the Hattiesburg area since 2013.
The 12th Circuit Court Narcotics Enforcement Team, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Annette Williams.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
A Guatemalan man who illegally returned to the United States after being deported was sentenced November 20, 2018, to four months in federal prison.
Jorvic Mendez-Mendez, age 26, a citizen of Guatemala illegally present in the United States and residing in Webster City, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 23, 2018, guilty plea to one count of illegal reentry into the United States.
At the guilty plea, Mendez-Mendez admitted he had previously been deported from the United States in April 2012 and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government. Mendez-Mendez was found by immigration agents in July 2018 after Mendez-Mendez was charged in Franklin County, Iowa with driving while barred. Mendez-Mendez admitted he illegally returned to the United States in 2014.
Mendez-Mendez was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by Chief United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Mendez-Mendez was sentenced to 121 days’ imprisonment. He must also serve a one-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Mendez-Mendez is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be turned over to immigration officials.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 18-CR-3031-LTS. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Grape Street Crips Member Arrested for Attempted Murder in Aid of Racketeering and RICO ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A member of the New Jersey Grape Street Crips who was arrested earlier this week in Durham, North Carolina, on charges that include RICO conspiracy, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit murder had his initial appearance in federal court today, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Ramon Morales, a/k/a “Ray Rizzo,” a/k/a “Rizzo,” a/k/a “Rizzolini,” 33, of Newark, was charged in a six-count indictment with RICO conspiracy, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. Morales had his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joe L. Webster in Durham federal court and was detained without bail.
According to documents filed in this and other cases and statements made in court:
Morales, allegedly a longtime member of the New Jersey Grape Street Crips, attempted to murder Almalik Anderson, a rival of the Grape Street Crips’ leader Corey Hamlet. In 2013, on Hamlet’s orders, Grape Street Crips gang members repeatedly shot and nearly killed Anderson and a woman who was in Anderson’s car. After learning that Anderson had survived the attempted murder and had been responsible for murdering one of their fellow gang members in retaliation for his shooting, Morales and another conspirator met with Hamlet at the Pennington Court public housing complex in Newark. Hamlet told Morales and other gang members that they had the green light to “even the scoreboard,” as told in a contemporaneous letter. Morales and another conspirator then armed themselves and drove around Newark to find Anderson, but were unsuccessful.
Morales also participated in a meeting during which Hamlet ordered another gang member to murder Anwar West, a fellow Grape Street Crips member whom Hamlet perceived had been disloyal by attempting to end the feud between Hamlet and Anderson.
Morales was also involved in the distribution of one kilogram or more of heroin, as well as in transporting firearms from the Durham, North Carolina, area to Newark. On Oct. 30, 2013, law enforcement officers in Maryland stopped a vehicle – driven by a Grape Street Crips member and rented in Morales’ name – that contained three assault rifles and dozens of rounds of ammunition.
More than 70 members and associates of the Grape Street Crips have been charged and convicted since the start of a coordinated federal investigation in the gang’s violent and drug-trafficking activities in 2013.
Morales faces a sentence of up to life for the RICO conspiracy, a sentence of up to life with a 10-year mandatory minimum for conspiracy to distribute heroin, and a sentence of up to life plus a five-year mandatory minimum for using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Morales also faces a sentence of up to 10 years for the conspiracy and attempt to commit murder in aid of racketeering.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Gregory W. Ehrie in Newark, and special agents of the DEA, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Valerie A. Nickerson with the investigation leading to Morales’ arrest. He also thanked the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II, police officers and detectives of the Newark Police Department, under the direction of Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose, and the Essex County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Armando B. Fontoura, for their assistance.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Osmar J. Benvenuto, Chief of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Ramsay of the Appeals Division in Newark.
This case was conducted under the auspices of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) and the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, a partnership between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
Government Contractors Found Guilty in $11 Million Veteran Set-Aside Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – November 21, 2018
SAN DIEGO, CA – A federal jury today convicted Andrew Otero and his company, A&D General Contracting, Inc. (“A&D”), on charges that they fraudulently obtained $11 million in federal contracts specifically set aside for service-disabled veteran-owned businesses.
The evidence demonstrated that Otero had no military experience. Yet Otero (on behalf of A&D) and veteran Roger Ramsey (on behalf of Action) participated in a conspiracy to defraud the government by forming a joint venture (“the JV”) – and falsely representing that Action and the JV qualified as service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (“SDVOSB”). Based on the false claim to SDVOSB eligibility, the conspirators fraudulently obtained approximately $11 million in federal government construction contracts or task orders with the Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”) and the Army Corps of Engineers (“ACE”).
As proven at trial, the fraudulent conspiracy involved set-aside contracts that could only be bid upon by legitimate service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses – a designation that did not apply to Otero or A&D. To appear qualified, Otero and Ramsey initially executed an agreement to create the JV (“the JV Agreement”), which stated that Ramsey’s company (Action) would be the managing venturer, employ a project manager for each of the set-aside contracts, and receive the majority of the JV’s profits.
However, as proved at trial, six months later, Otero and Ramsey signed a secret side agreement that made clear the JV was ineligible under the SDVOSB program. For example, the side agreement said the parties created the JV so that A&D could simply “use the Disabled Veteran Status of Action Telecom” to bid on contracts. The side agreement also stated that A&D – not Action – would run the construction jobs. They also agreed that “A&D will keep 98% of every payment; Action Telecom will receive 2% of every payment.”
In addition to the secret side agreement, the evidence demonstrated several ways in which the JV did not operate as a legitimate SDVOSB, but was essentially controlled by Otero and A&D. For example, although Ramsey (a service-disabled veteran) nominally served as president of Action and the JV, he actually worked full-time for another telecommunications company. Otero and A&D, not Ramsey, controlled the day-to-day management, daily operation and long-term decision making of the JV. Among other things, Otero and A&D appointed an A&D employee as the project manager for every contract and task order.
“Our nation strives to repay the debt of gratitude we owe to our veterans by setting aside some government contracts for veterans with service-related disabilities,” said United States Attorney Adam Braverman. “These unscrupulous contractors abused this program through a cynical and illegal ‘rent-a-vet’ scheme. They are now being held fully accountable for robbing truly deserving vets of important economic opportunities.”
All four defendants are also facing civil charges in United States v. Otero, et al., Case No. 15CV0441-JAH, a case alleging violations of the false claims act based on the similar misconduct.
The defendants were ordered to appear before U.S. District Judge John Houston for sentencing on February 19, 2019 at 10:30 a.m.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca Kanter and Aaron Arnzen.
CORPORATE DEFENDANTS
A&D General Contracting, Inc., Santee, California
INDIVIDUAL DEFENDANTS
Andrew Otero El Cajon, CA
Criminal Case No. 17CR0879-BEN
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Count 1: Conspiracy to defraud and commit offenses (18 U.S.C. § 371)
Maximum penalties: 5 years’ imprisonment; 3 years’ supervised release; a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or gross loss resulting from the offense, whichever is greatest; and a mandatory special assessment of $10
Count 2-4: Major fraud against the United States (18 U.S.C. § 1031)
Maximum penalties: 10years’ imprisonment; supervised release; a fine of $1,000,000 per count ($5,000,000 total); and a mandatory special assessment of $100
Counts 5-7: Wire fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343)
Maximum penalties: 20 years’ imprisonment; a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or gross loss resulting from the offense, whichever is greatest; and a mandatory special assessment of $100
10, 14: False statements (18 U.S.C. § 1001)
Maximum penalties: 5 years’ imprisonment; a fine; and a mandatory special assessment of $100
AGENCIES
Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General
Georgetown Man Gets Seven Years for Federal Gun CrimeRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that Dewayne Hasan Davis, 29, of Georgetown, South Carolina, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Evidence presented to the court showed that on January 9, 2018, Georgetown City Police arrested Davis on outstanding state warrants. A search of Davis—who was on probation at the time of his arrest—revealed a bag of heroin and a loaded .44 Magnum revolver that had recently been reported stolen. Federal law prohibits Davis from possessing firearms and ammunitions because of his numerous prior felony convictions, including for pointing and presenting a firearm at a person and distribution of cocaine.
United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel accepted Davis’ guilty plea and sentenced him to 84 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Georgetown City Police. It was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Project CeaseFire is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice 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 Attorney General announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Schoen of the Charleston office prosecuted the case.
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Former U.S. Postal Service Letter Carrier Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison for A Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – U.S. District Judge George J. Hazel sentenced former U.S. Postal Service (USPS) letter carrier James Thomas Woodland, age 49, of Temple Hills, Maryland, to four years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine. The sentence was imposed on November 19, 2018.
The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Postal Inspector in Charge Peter R. Rendina of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) - Washington Division; Special Agent in Charge Paul L. Bowman of the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General; and Chief J. Thomas Manger of the Montgomery County Police Department.
According to his plea agreement, from at least September 2016 through April 25, 2017, Woodland delivered drug-laden parcels coming from Nevada and California through the U.S. Mail, to his co-conspirators. On April 21, 2017, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service identified several USPS Priority Mail parcels which were suspected to contain illegal narcotics. On April 24, 2017, after a drug-detection canine positively alerted to the parcels, Inspectors obtained a warrant to search them.
Five of the parcels were addressed to five separate locations in Bethesda, Maryland, that were on the postal route assigned to Woodland. None of the names listed on the parcels were associated with the addresses on the parcels. Upon execution of the search warrant, Inspectors discovered that each of the parcels contained approximately one kilogram of cocaine. Each parcel was packaged the same, including a light-blue wax covering with a candle wick and the word “King’s” or the shape of a shamrock stamped into the vacuum-sealed cocaine brick. The estimated street value of the cocaine was $187,600.
As detailed in Woodland’s plea agreement, postal records confirm that the drug parcels Woodland intercepted often had the same or similar characteristics as the parcels that were interdicted on April 21, 2017. To alert Woodland that parcels were being sent, Woodland’s co-conspirators typically sent Woodland a text message containing (in whole or part) the address on Woodland’s route and/or a fictional name (i.e., a name not associated with the address on Woodland’s route). Woodland admitted that when the parcel(s) arrived at the Bethesda Post Office for delivery, he retrieved the parcel(s), notified his co-conspirators by call or text message that he had the parcel(s), marked the parcel(s) as “delivered” using his USPS scanner, and then redirected the parcel(s) to his co-conspirators.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur praised the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, and the Montgomery County Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ray D. McKenzie and Timothy F. Hagan, who prosecuted the case.
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Former Fifth Circuit Solicitor Indicted for Additional Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina ---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that Daniel Edward Johnson, 47, Former Fifth Circuit Solicitor and resident of Blythewood, South Carolina, was charged in a 36-count Superseding Indictment by a federal Grand Jury in Columbia for Wire Fraud, Mail Fraud, Theft of Federal Funds, False Statements, Conversion of Federal Funds, and Obstruction of Justice.
Johnson faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on the Wire Fraud, Mail Fraud, and Obstruction of Justice charges; a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on the Theft of Federal Funds and Conversion of Federal Funds charges; and a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison for the False Statements charge.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Winston D. Holliday, Jr., Alyssa Leigh Richardson, and William C. Lewis of the Columbia office are prosecuting the case.
The United States Attorney stated that all charges in the indictment are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments Charging 23 IndividualsRead the Press Release
MACON— A federal grand jury has returned indictments during the month of November. Charles E. Peeler, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announced Wednesday, November 21, 2018 that the grand jury true billed indictments charging 23 new individuals. An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct. All of the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt.
“The successful collaboration between law enforcement at every level helped bring these cases before a federal grand jury,” said U.S. Attorney Peeler. “I want to thank our local, state and federal law enforcement for their dedication and hard work.”
Indictment #1
MILTON WRENN, age 58 of Hartsfield, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession of Child Pornography
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Wrenn faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Postal Office of the Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia C. Bowen.
Indictment #2
DERINIQUE MORROW, age 20 of Albany, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Interstate Communications with Intent to Extort
2) Interstate Stalking
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Morrow faces a maximum sentence of two (2) years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Morrow faces a maximum sentence of five (5) years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or both.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Warminster, Pennsylvania Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Dasher.
Indictment #3
GEORGE RANDOLPH JEFFERY, age 58 of Monroe, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Attempted Online Enticement of a Minor
2) Possession of Child Pornography
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Jeffery faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, with a 10 year mandatory minimum term, a $250,000 fine and a maximum Supervised Release of life. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Jeffery faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and a maximum Supervised Release of Life.
The case was jointly investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lyndie Freeman.
Indictment #4
ORIEST STANLEY, JR., age 50 of Macon, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1) Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Stanley faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and a maximum Supervised Release of three (3) years.
The case was investigated by the United States Marshall Service and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Howard.
Indictment #5
MAURICE HANCOCK, a/k/a “FREAKY”, a/k/a “NBA PHIL”, age 44 of Statham, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1-19) Distribution of a Controlled Substance
If convicted on Counts 1, 4, 5 and 6, Mr. Hancock faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine per count. If convicted on Counts 2, 3, 7 and 8, Mr. Hancock faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine, or both per count. If convicted on Counts 9 – 19, Mr. Hancock faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine, or both, per count.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Jarrett.
Indictment #6
HEATHER NICOLE GRAY, age 31 of Norman Park, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1-15) Bank Fraud
16-82) Counts of Wire Fraud
83) Count of Aggravated Identity Theft
If convicted on Counts 1-15, Ms. Gray faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both, per count. If convicted on Counts 16-82, Ms. Gray faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both, per count. If convicted on Count 83, Ms. Gray faces a mandatory two (2) years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. McCullers.
Indictment #7
FRANK DOUGLAS, age 59 of North Augusta, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1-2) Assault on a Federal Employee
If convicted on Counts 1-2, Mr. Douglas faces a maximum sentence of eight (8) years, a $250,000 fine or both, per count.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah McEwen.
Indictment #8
MIGUEL AYALA, age 26 of Marietta, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1) Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Ayala faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine or both.
The case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the Peach County Sheriff’s Office and the Byron Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ouzts.
EDUARDO ONOFRE, age 24 of Powder Springs, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1) Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
If convicted Count 1, Mr. Onofre faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine or both.
The case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the Peach County Sheriff’s Office, and Byron Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ouzts.
Indictment #9
JUSTIN HUNT a/k/a “BIG BOY”, age 33 of Macon, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1-2) Distribution of Methamphetamine
If convicted on Counts 1-2, Mr. Hunt faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine or both, per count.
The case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ouzts.
VICTOR HENDERSON a/k/a “BLACK BOY”, age 39, of Macon, Georgia, is charged with the following:
3) Distribution of Methamphetamine
If convicted on Count 3, Mr. Henderson faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine or both.
The case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ouzts.
Indictment #10
YESIKA DEL CARMEN VIVENES LINARES a/k/a ANA CARARINA GONCALVES ALVES, age 36 of Venezuela, is charged with the following:
1) Forgery and False Use of a Passport
If convicted on Count 1, Ms. Vivenes Linares faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in prison, a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The case was investigated by the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service and the Valdosta Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. McCullers.
Indictment #11
MARTIN SOSA-TORRES, age 24 of Mexico is charged with the following:
1) Illegal Reentry into the United States
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Torres faces a maximum sentence of two (2) years in prison, a $250,000.00 fine, or both, on each count.
The case was investigated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amelia G. Helmick.
In addition to the above indictments, the following individuals were indicted for firearms offenses. All of these cases were brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN was launched in 2001 by the Office of the Attorney General.
Indictment #12
CECIL WAMPLER, age 33, of Bristol, Tennessee, is charged with the following:
1) Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
2) Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
3) Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime
4) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Wampler faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine or both. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Wampler faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine or both. If convicted on Count 3, Mr. Wampler faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $250,000 fine or both. If convicted on Count 4, Mr. Wampler faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.
The case was investigated by the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, and the collaboration of District Attorney for the Western Judicial Circuit Ken Mauldin. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Jarrett.
AMY LAURA LEONARD, age 49 of Johnson City, Tennessee, is charged with the following:
1) Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
2) Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
3) Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime
If convicted on Count 1, Ms. Leonard faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine or both. If convicted on Count 2, Ms. Leonard faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. If convicted on Count 3, Ms. Leonard faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $250,000.00 fine or both.
The case was investigated by the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, and the collaboration of Ken Mauldin, District Attorney for the Western Judicial Circuit. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Jarrett.
WILLIAM MATHEW HOWARD, aged 44, of Crawford, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1) Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance
2) Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
3) Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Howard faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $10 million fine or both. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Howard faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine or both. If convicted on Count 3, Mr. Howard faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a $250,000.00 or both.
The case was investigated by the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, and the collaboration of District Attorney for the Western Judicial Circuit Ken Mauldin. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Jarrett.
Indictment #13
JAMES EARL BRIDGES, age 41, of Albany, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
2) Possession of a Firearm by a Controlled Substance User
3) Possession of Methamphetamine
If convicted on Counts 1-2, Mr. Bridges faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or both, and a maximum Supervised Release of three (3) years, per count. If convicted on Count 3, Mr. Bridges faces one (1) year in prison and a $1,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Albany-Dougherty Drug Unit. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Dasher.
Indictment #14
JOSEPH FREDRICK KEGLER, age 45 of Columbus, Georgia is charged with the following:
1) Felon in Possession of a Firearm
2) Simple Possession of a Controlled Substance
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Kegler faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both and a maximum three (3) years of Supervised Release. If convicted on Count 2, Mr. Kegler faces a maximum sentence of three (3) years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both and a maximum one (1) year of Supervised Release.
The case was investigated by the Columbus Police Department and ATF. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amelia G. Helmick.
Indictment #15
PAUL A. BRADFORD, age 47 of Lakeland, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted on Count 1, Bradford faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lanier and Berrien County Sheriff’s Offices. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. McCullers.
Indictment #16
BRANDON RASHAD DOWDELL, age 24, of Valdosta, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Dowdell faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Valdosta Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sonja Profit.
Indictment #17
ANTHONY LEVETTE GRUBBS, age 31 of Jacksonville, Florida, is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Grubbs faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.
The case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sonja Profit.
Indictment #18
WILLIAM HENRY PHILLIPS, JR., age 43, of Valdosta, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1) Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Phillips faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Valdosta Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sonja Profit.
Indictment #19
JAYLON WESLEY, age 21 of Columbus, Georgia, is charged with the following:
1) Possession of Firearm by a Convicted Felon
If convicted on Count 1, Mr. Wesley faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Columbus Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Williams.
Questions concerning this release should 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.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Twenty-Two in Methamphetamine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – On October 10, 2018 a federal grand jury in Greeneville returned a 76-count indictment against the following individuals for their roles in the distribution of methamphetamine (meth):
- Juan Moreno Pantiga, 29, of Greene County, Tennessee;
- Oscar Orozco-Blaco, 44, of Jefferson City, Tennessee;
- Luis Rey Maldonado-Patino, 32, of Hamblen County, Tennessee;
- Rainey Nichole Fields, 27, of Greene County, Tennessee;
- Brycen Foster Nye, 32, of Greene County, Tennessee;
- Cody Allen Arnold, 33, of Greene County, Tennessee;
- Jeffery Allen Isley, 39, of Greene County, Tennessee;
- Kenneth Dewayne McIntosh, 24, of Greeneville, Tennessee;
- David Brock Church, 27, of Greeneville, Tennessee;
- James Clayton Alan Broyles, 43, of Greeneville, Tennessee;
- JD Edward Ealey, 48, of Greeneville, Tennessee;
- Brian David Gray, 35, of Greeneville, Tennessee
- Donya Lea Earley, 27, of Greene County, Tennessee;
- Austin Edward Isley, 20, of Greene County, Tennessee;
- Chelsea Brook Gray, 27, of Greeneville, Tennessee;
- Randy Allen Brown, 52, of Greeneville, Tennessee
- Makayla Nicole Isley, 21, of Greene County, Tennessee;
- Harold Arthur Johnson, Jr., 48, of Greene County, Tennessee;
- Kimberly Gaye Maples, 32, of Greeneville, Tennessee;
- Caleb Blaine Davis, 27, of Hawkins County, Tennessee;
- Jessee Dewayne Lowery, 32, of Greene County, Tennessee;
- Dana Renee Nelson, 32, of Greene County, Tennessee.
The indictment was recently unsealed by the U.S. District Court and has not yet been set for trial. The case will be heard by the Honorable J. Ronnie Greer, Senior U.S. District Judge.
The indictment, on file with U.S. District Court, alleges that each of these individuals was involved in a conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of meth in the Eastern District of Tennessee and elsewhere. Moreno-Pantiga, Maldanado-Patino, Fields, Arnold, Jeffrey Isley, McIntosh, Church, Broyles, Earley, Brian Gray, Austin Isley, Chelsea Gray, Makayla Isley, Johnson, Maples, and Davis were also each charged with at least one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The indictment also alleges other charges related to the distribution and possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances as well as money laundering.
If convicted of the meth conspiracy charge, each faces a minimum mandatory term of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release, a fine of up to $10,000,000, any applicable forfeiture, and a $100 special assessment. Moreno-Pantiga, Maldanado-Patino, Fields, Arnold, Jeffrey Isley, McIntosh, Church, Broyles, Earley, Brian Gray, Austin Isley, Chelsea Gray, Makayla Isley, Johnson, Maples, and Davis face a minimum mandatory term of at least five years and up to life in prison for the firearms charges against them, which must be served consecutively to any other prison term imposed, up to five years supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 special assessment.
The ongoing investigation leading to the indictment was the product of a partnership between Greene County Sheriff’s Department, Greeneville Police Department, Hawkins County Sheriff’s Department, Hamblen County Sheriff’s Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Department, Tusculum Police Department, Baileyton Police Department, Elizabethton Police Department, Third Judicial Drug Task Force, Fourth Judicial Drug Task Force, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Tennessee National Guard Counterdrug Task Force, Tennessee Highway Patrol, United States Marshal Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Christian Lampe will represent the United States.
Members of the public are reminded that an indictment constitutes only charges and that every person is presumed innocent until his or her guilt has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation is a result of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s drug supply reduction strategy. OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multi-level attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
This case is also 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. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offics to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
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Dominican National Sentenced to over 10 Years’ Imprisonment for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Luis Beato-Hererra, age 29, of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced to 130 months’ imprisonment and five years of supervised release on November 20, 2018, by Chief United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine hydrochloride, and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Beato-Hererra pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin (which is the equivalent to approximately 40,000 to 50,000 individuals doses of heroin) and five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride, and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
The charges stem from an investigation in which the Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents intercepted packages sent from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic to the United States between June and October 2014. The packages contained kilogram quantities of heroin and cocaine hydrochloride concealed inside xbox consoles, air filters, and projectors. The conspiracy spanned from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.
Beato-Hererra was charged in July 2015 with ten other individuals. All of his co-defendants have been sentenced:
- Christian Rivera-Rios was sentenced to 181 months’ imprisonment;
- Glauco Kelvin Celedonio-Smith was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment;
- Yefries Guillen-Herrera was sentenced to 57 months’ imprisonment;
- Felix Rodriguez-Pabon was sentenced to 87 months’ imprisonment;
- Nelson Martinez was sentenced to 63 months’ imprisonment;
- Wilson Herrera was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment;
- Wilfreddy Perez was sentenced to 35 months’ imprisonment;
- Jose Pena-Herrera was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day imprisonment;
- Lional Martinez-Osoria was sentenced to 68 months’ imprisonment; and
- Joshua De La Cruz was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment.
The investigation was conducted by HSI, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Berks County District Attorney’s Office Detective Unit and the U.S. Customs & Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daryl F. Bloom prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case also was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Department of Justice Releases Annual Report to Congress on Indian Country Investigations and ProsecutionsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice released today its annual report to Congress, Indian Country Investigations and Prosecutions, which provides a range of enforcement statistics required under the Tribal Law and Order Act, as well as information about the progress of the Department’s initiatives to reduce violent crime and strengthen tribal justice systems.
The report reveals that in 2017, U.S. Attorney Offices prosecuted a majority of Indian country cases presented to them. U.S. Attorney Offices declined prosecution of a minority of cases presented to them primarily due to insufficient evidence or referral to another prosecuting authority, such as a tribal prosecutor. The report also shows that the FBI closed 12.5 percent more investigations in 2017 than in 2016 (see detailed findings below).
“The Department of Justice is committed to public safety in Indian country,” said Deputy Attorney General Rod J. Rosenstein. “We have demonstrated this commitment over the past two years by investing substantial resources and supporting innovative programs that empower federal and tribal prosecutors and build the capacity of tribal justice systems. Today’s report demonstrates that our work makes a difference. Lasting public safety improvements in Indian country are best achieved when federal, state, and tribal law enforcement agencies work together.”
“The Justice Department’s Indian Country Investigations and Prosecutions Report reflects that the many coordinated efforts among United States Attorneys and tribal justice officials are making a difference,” said Trent Shores, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma, and Chairman of the Attorney General’s Advisory Subcommittee on Native American Issues. “Our work continues, and we must be resolute, in order to meet the challenges prevalent in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. In August, the Attorney General's Native American Issues Subcommittee met and renewed our commitment to finding meaningful and practical tools to help put an end to the disproportionate rates of violence afflicting Native Americans. Among these, the department is expanding the use of cross-deputization agreements, access to criminal databases, funding for juvenile programs serving at-risk native youth, and services to victims and their families. We must continue to work together and find solutions to violent crime and drug trafficking in Indian Country. United States Attorneys are committed to upholding the federal trust responsibility and the rule of law in Indian Country.”
The Trump Administration has strengthened the Department’s commitment to Indian Country by prioritizing the reduction of violent crime throughout the United States—including in Indian Country. This reflects a recognition that Native Americans suffer from persistently high rates of violent crime, particularly domestic and sexual abuse of women and children, and like many communities in the United States, have been hit hard by both opioid and methamphetamine abuse.
In April 2017, as part of the Department’s efforts under the Task Force on Crime Reduction and Public Safety, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced a series of actions the Department would take to support law enforcement and maintain public safety in Indian Country.
The Justice Department recognizes that investigating crime and prosecuting those responsible is critical to public safety in Indian Country. To that end, the Justice Department’s partnerships with tribes, as well as all federal, state and local law enforcement, are crucial to success. The Department deploys innovative programs such as the Tribal Access Program, Tribal Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys, and numerous grant programs that enhance partnerships, increase information sharing, build capacity for local criminal justice systems, and provide services to victims of crime.
According to the report, in 2017 implementation of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA 2013) remained an important priority for the Department. Federal prosecutors continued to utilize the federal assault charges created by VAWA 2013. In Calendar Year (CY) 2017, federal prosecutors filed cases against 139 defendants under VAWA 2013’s enhanced federal assault statutes, which include enhanced sentences for certain crimes of domestic violence such as strangulation and stalking. They obtained 134 convictions (an increase of 30% from CY 2016 (103)). Also in CY 2017, prosecutors filed cases against 43 defendants in Indian country cases using the domestic assault by a habitual offender statute, 18 U.S.C. § 117, and obtained 29 convictions.
Cooperation among federal and tribal law enforcement and victim advocates is key to successfully prosecuting sexual assault crimes in Indian country. As of 2017, every U.S. Attorney Office with Indian country responsibilities has developed federal sexual violence guidelines designed to improve the federal response to sexual abuse in tribal communities.
The report also notes that the Tribal Liaison Program remains one of the most important components of the Department’s efforts in Indian country. TLOA requires that the U.S. Attorney for each district with Indian country appoint at least one Assistant United States Attorney to serve as a Tribal Liaison for that district. They foster and facilitate relationships between federal and tribal partners that are vital to reducing violent crime. As part of their duties, Tribal Liaisons assist in developing multi-disciplinary teams to combat child abuse, work with SART teams on sexual abuse response, conduct community outreach, and coordinate the prosecution of federal crimes.
The information contained in the report shows the following:
- FBI’s CY 2017 statistics show a 12.5 percent increase in total closed investigations (2,210 total) compared to FBI’s CY 2016 statistics (1,960 total). The FBI has investigative responsibility for federal crimes committed on approximately 200 Indian Reservations. This responsibility is shared concurrently with BIA-OJS and other federal agencies with a law enforcement mission in Indian country
- Approximately 79.5 percent (1,511 out of 1,900) of Indian country criminal investigations opened by the FBI were referred for prosecution.
- Of the 699 Indian country investigations that the FBI closed administratively without referral for prosecution, the primary reason for closing (approximately 21 percent) was that the case did not meet statutory definitions of a crime or U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) prosecution guidelines. In addition, analysis of CY 2017 data indicates that 15 percent of investigations closed administratively were closed due to unsupported allegations, meaning no evidence of criminal activity was uncovered during the investigations. Another reason for non-referral (20 percent) was that the deaths under investigations were determined to be the result of accident, suicide, or natural causes.
- 84 percent (141 out of 167) of the death investigations that were closed administratively by the FBI in CY 2017 were closed because the death was due to causes other than homicide (i.e., accidents, suicide, or natural causes).
- In CY 2017, the USAOs resolved 2,390 Indian country matters.
- The majority of Indian country criminal matters resolved by the USAOs in CY 2017 (1,499 out of 2,390) were prosecuted (charges filed in either District or Magistrate Court).
- The USAO declination rate remained relatively steady. USAO data shows that in CY 2017, 37% (891) of all (2,390) Indian country matters resolved were declined. USAOs declined cases at a similar rate in prior years: 34% (903) of all Indian country matters resolved (2,666) in CY 2016; 39% (1,043) of all Indian country matters resolved (2,655) in CY 2015; 34% (989) of all Indian country matters resolved (2,886) in CY 2014; 34% (853) of all Indian country matters resolved (2,514) in CY 2013; 31% (965) of all Indian country matters resolved (3,097) in CY 2012; and 38% (1,042) of all Indian country matters resolved (2,767) in CY 2011.
- The most common reason for declination by USAOs was insufficient evidence (70.9% in CY 2017, 68.0% in CY 2016, 71.7% in CY 2015, 59.6% in CY 2014, 55.6% in CY 2013, and 52% in CY 2012). The next most common reason for declination by USAOs was referral to another prosecuting authority (13.2% in CY 2017, 16.4% in CY 2016, 13.8% in CY 2015, 16.3% in CY 2014, 20.8% in CY 2013, and 24% in CY 2012).
The data presented in this report covers only those offenses reported to the FBI and federal prosecutors. The majority of criminal offenses committed, investigated, and prosecuted in Indian Country are adjudicated in tribal justice systems. In much of Indian Country, tribal law enforcement and tribal justice systems hold criminals accountable, protect victims, provide youth prevention and intervention programs, and confront precursors to crime such as alcohol and substance abuse. These efforts are often in partnership with federal agencies or accomplished with support from federal programs and federal funding opportunities.
Read the entire report at www.justice.gov/tribal/tloa.html
Read about the Justice Department’s efforts to increase public safety in Indian County at www.justice.gov/tribal/accomplishments.html
Department of Justice Releases Annual Report to Congress on Indian Country Investigations and ProsecutionsRead the Press Release
The Department of Justice along with U.S. Attorney Trent Shores, Chairman of the Attorney General’s Advisory Subcommittee on Native American Issues, released today the annual report to Congress, Indian Country Investigations and Prosecutions, which provides a range of enforcement statistics required under the Tribal Law and Order Act, as well as information about the progress of the Department’s initiatives to reduce violent crime and strengthen tribal justice systems.
The report reveals that in 2017, U.S. Attorney Offices prosecuted a majority of Indian country cases presented to them. U.S. Attorney Offices declined prosecution of a minority of cases presented to them primarily due to insufficient evidence or referral to another prosecuting authority, such as a tribal prosecutor. The report also shows that the FBI closed 12.5 percent more investigations in 2017 than in 2016 (see detailed findings below).
“The Department of Justice is committed to public safety in Indian country,” said Deputy Attorney General Rod J. Rosenstein. “We have demonstrated this commitment over the past two years by investing substantial resources and supporting innovative programs that empower federal and tribal prosecutors and build the capacity of tribal justice systems. Today’s report demonstrates that our work makes a difference. Lasting public safety improvements in Indian country are best achieved when federal, state, and tribal law enforcement agencies work together.”
“The Justice Department’s Indian Country Investigations and Prosecutions Report reflects that the many coordinated efforts among United States Attorneys and tribal justice officials are making a difference,” said Trent Shores, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma, and Chairman of the Attorney General’s Advisory Subcommittee on Native American Issues. “Our work continues, and we must be resolute, in order to meet the challenges prevalent in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. In August, the Attorney General's Native American Issues Subcommittee met and renewed our commitment to finding meaningful and practical tools to help put an end to the disproportionate rates of violence afflicting Native Americans. Among these, the department is expanding the use of cross-deputization agreements, access to criminal databases, funding for juvenile programs serving at-risk native youth, and services to victims and their families. We must continue to work together and find solutions to violent crime and drug trafficking in Indian Country. United States Attorneys are committed to upholding the federal trust responsibility and the rule of law in Indian Country.”
The Trump Administration has strengthened the Department’s commitment to Indian Country by prioritizing the reduction of violent crime throughout the United States—including in Indian Country. This reflects a recognition that Native Americans suffer from persistently high rates of violent crime, particularly domestic and sexual abuse of women and children, and like many communities in the United States, have been hit hard by both opioid and methamphetamine abuse.
In April 2017, as part of the Department’s efforts under the Task Force on Crime Reduction and Public Safety, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced a series of actions the Department would take to support law enforcement and maintain public safety in Indian Country.
The Justice Department recognizes that investigating crime and prosecuting those responsible is critical to public safety in Indian Country. To that end, the Justice Department’s partnerships with tribes, as well as all federal, state and local law enforcement, are crucial to success. The Department deploys innovative programs such as the Tribal Access Program, Tribal Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys, and numerous grant programs that enhance partnerships, increase information sharing, build capacity for local criminal justice systems, and provide services to victims of crime.
According to the report, in 2017 implementation of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA 2013) remained an important priority for the Department. Federal prosecutors continued to utilize the federal assault charges created by VAWA 2013. In Calendar Year (CY) 2017, federal prosecutors filed cases against 139 defendants under VAWA 2013’s enhanced federal assault statutes, which include enhanced sentences for certain crimes of domestic violence such as strangulation and stalking. They obtained 134 convictions (an increase of 30% from CY 2016 (103)). Also in CY 2017, prosecutors filed cases against 43 defendants in Indian country cases using the domestic assault by a habitual offender statute, 18 U.S.C. § 117, and obtained 29 convictions.
Cooperation among federal and tribal law enforcement and victim advocates is key to successfully prosecuting sexual assault crimes in Indian country. As of 2017, every U.S. Attorney Office with Indian country responsibilities has developed federal sexual violence guidelines designed to improve the federal response to sexual abuse in tribal communities.
The report also notes that the Tribal Liaison Program remains one of the most important components of the Department’s efforts in Indian country. TLOA requires that the U.S. Attorney for each district with Indian country appoint at least one Assistant United States Attorney to serve as a Tribal Liaison for that district. They foster and facilitate relationships between federal and tribal partners that are vital to reducing violent crime. As part of their duties, Tribal Liaisons assist in developing multi-disciplinary teams to combat child abuse, work with SART teams on sexual abuse response, conduct community outreach, and coordinate the prosecution of federal crimes.
The information contained in the report shows the following:
• FBI’s CY 2017 statistics show a 12.5 percent increase in total closed investigations (2,210 total) compared to FBI’s CY 2016 statistics (1,960 total). The FBI has investigative responsibility for federal crimes committed on approximately 200 Indian Reservations. This responsibility is shared concurrently with BIA-OJS and other federal agencies with a law enforcement mission in Indian country
• Approximately 79.5 percent (1,511 out of 1,900) of Indian country criminal investigations opened by the FBI were referred for prosecution.
• Of the 699 Indian country investigations that the FBI closed administratively without referral for prosecution, the primary reason for closing (approximately 21 percent) was that the case did not meet statutory definitions of a crime or U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) prosecution guidelines. In addition, analysis of CY 2017 data indicates that 15 percent of investigations closed administratively were closed due to unsupported allegations, meaning no evidence of criminal activity was uncovered during the investigations. Another reason for non-referral (20 percent) was that the deaths under investigations were determined to be the result of accident, suicide, or natural causes.
• 84 percent (141 out of 167) of the death investigations that were closed administratively by the FBI in CY 2017 were closed because the death was due to causes other than homicide (i.e., accidents, suicide, or natural causes).
• In CY 2017, the USAOs resolved 2,390 Indian country matters.
• The majority of Indian country criminal matters resolved by the USAOs in CY 2017 (1,499 out of 2,390) were prosecuted (charges filed in either District or Magistrate Court).
• The USAO declination rate remained relatively steady. USAO data shows that in CY 2017, 37% (891) of all (2,390) Indian country matters resolved were declined. USAOs declined cases at a similar rate in prior years: 34% (903) of all Indian country matters resolved (2,666) in CY 2016; 39% (1,043) of all Indian country matters resolved (2,655) in CY 2015; 34% (989) of all Indian country matters resolved (2,886) in CY 2014; 34% (853) of all Indian country matters resolved (2,514) in CY 2013; 31% (965) of all Indian country matters resolved (3,097) in CY 2012; and 38% (1,042) of all Indian country matters resolved (2,767) in CY 2011.
• The most common reason for declination by USAOs was insufficient evidence (70.9% in CY 2017, 68.0% in CY 2016, 71.7% in CY 2015, 59.6% in CY 2014, 55.6% in CY 2013, and 52% in CY 2012). The next most common reason for declination by USAOs was referral to another prosecuting authority (13.2% in CY 2017, 16.4% in CY 2016, 13.8% in CY 2015, 16.3% in CY 2014, 20.8% in CY 2013, and 24% in CY 2012).
The data presented in this report covers only those offenses reported to the FBI and federal prosecutors. The majority of criminal offenses committed, investigated, and prosecuted in Indian Country are adjudicated in tribal justice systems. In much of Indian Country, tribal law enforcement and tribal justice systems hold criminals accountable, protect victims, provide youth prevention and intervention programs, and confront precursors to crime such as alcohol and substance abuse. These efforts are often in partnership with federal agencies or accomplished with support from federal programs and federal funding opportunities.
Read the entire report at www.justice.gov/tribal/tloa.html
Read about the Justice Department’s efforts to increase public safety in Indian County at www.justice.gov/tribal/accomplishments.html
Denver Gang Member Charged with Gun Crime After Tuesday’s LoDo Shooting Where Four Were Hurt and One DeadRead the Press Release
DENVER – Dashae Eugene Armstrong, age 23, of Denver, appeared in U.S. District Court this morning to be advised of firearm charges pending against him and his rights following a deadly shooting between rival gangs on November 19, 2018, in downtown Denver, U.S. Attorney Jason R. Dunn, ATF Denver Special Agent in Charge Debbie Livingston and FBI Denver Division Special Agent in Charge Dean Phillips announced. Armstrong was remanded into custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for November 27, 2018.
Armstrong faces one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition. If convicted of that charge he would face not more than 10 years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine. According to the facts contained in the affidavit, on November 19, 2018, at approximately 4:04 p.m., Denver Police officers responded to 1200 21st St, Denver, in response to a shooting. Multiple people called 911 saying that several people had been shot. When Denver Police arrived on scene they discovered five victims suffering from gunshot wounds, including one who was deceased.
Witnesses on scene stated two men were shooting at each other. They then provided descriptions of the shooters. One of the shooters was described as being a heavy set black male, wearing a grey sweatshirt and black pants. A short time later Denver Fire Department first responders were with a male in front of the Marquis Theater who matched that description. The male, identified as Dashae Eugene Armstrong, had a gunshot wound to his leg.
Armstrong was transported to the hospital where he was treated and detained. During the investigation detectives at the shooting scene observed two distinct groups of spent shell casings. One group was 9mm, which matches the gun Armstrong was alleged to be shooting. He is a Tre Deuce Crip gang member. The other shooter was reportedly a Tre Tre Crip gang member.
Armstrong has a criminal record going back to 2007. His first conviction was a felony in Denver District Court on November 11, 2013, for Distribution of a Schedule I/II Controlled Substance. His next felony was also in Denver District Court on May 20, 2014, also for Distribution of a Schedule I/II Controlled Substance.
“Today my office filed charges as a part of the law enforcement and prosecutorial response to this violent crime,” said U.S. Attorney Jason R. Dunn. “We work together with our state and local partners and will step in when state prosecution is not feasible or possible.”
This investigation was conducted by the Denver Police Department, with assistance from the Denver of the ATF and the Safe Streets Task Force led by the Denver Division of the FBI. The defendant is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Celeste Rangel.
These enforcement actions and partnerships are 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. Learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Convicted Sex Offender Found Guilty on Drug Conspiracy and Related ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. B Late yesterday, a Charlotte federal jury convicted Keith Antonio Barnett, 46, of Gastonia, N.C., of drug conspiracy and related drug charges, announced Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
U.S. Attorney Murray is joined in making today’s announcement by John A. Strong, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division; Nick S. Annan, Special Agent in Charge of ICE/Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Georgia and the Carolinas; Chief Robert C. Helton of the Gastonia Police Department; and Chief Joseph D. Ramey of the Gaston County Police Department.
According to filed court documents and evidence presented at trial, beginning from at least 2016, Barnett was part of a drug conspiracy operating in Gaston County. Trial evidence established that, during the relevant time period, Barnett was responsible for trafficking more than 280 grams of crack cocaine. The evidence at trial also established that, in October 2017, while executing a search warrant at a Gaston County residence that was being used as a drug house, law enforcement arrested Barnett, and recovered more than 120 grams of crack cocaine, over 40 grams of cocaine, more than six grams of heroin, and approximately $3,000 in cash.
The jury convicted Barnett of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine; distribution and possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine; and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin.
Barnett has a prior criminal history that includes two convictions for Possession of Crack Cocaine in 1991; Indecent Liberties with a Child in 1997; Criminal Domestic Violence of a High and Aggravated Nature in 2006; Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in 2010; and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in 2013.
Barnett is currently in federal custody. At sentencing, Barnett faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison and a fine of up to $20 million. A sentencing date has not been set.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), which is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
In making today’s announcement U.S. Attorney Murray credited the FBI and HSI in Charlotte for their investigation of this case, and thanked the Gastonia Police Department and Gaston County Police Department for their invaluable assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven R. Kaufman and Sanjeev Bhasker, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte, are in charge of the prosecution.
Connecticut Man Sentenced to 60 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Adonis Smith, age 39, of New London, Connecticut, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release on November 20, 2018, by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion for conspiring to distribute heroin, crack cocaine, and fentanyl.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Smith pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute controlled substances in Pennsylvania between approximately February 2016 through June 2016. Smith admitted to working as a drug dealer and in the conspiracy, and to trafficking in excess of 15 grams of crack cocaine and in excess of 40 grams of heroin (which is the equivalent of 1,600 potentially fatal doses of heroin).
Smith was charged in June 2017 with 14 other individuals. All of his co-defendants have pleaded guilty, with eight others having already been sentenced:
- Kassandra Martin of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Joshua Lenchick of Luzerne, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- Kristyna Shotwell of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 12 months and one day of imprisonment;
- Tanay Jones of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to a time served sentence of 19 days’ imprisonment;
- William Waring of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment;
- John Maybank of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 53 months’ imprisonment;
- Siobhan Daniels, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment; and
- Luis Nevarez, of Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Luzerne County Drug Task Force, and by the Wilkes-Barre Township Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Phillip J. Caraballo prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case also was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
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Columbus man admits to cocaine distribution chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Jason R. Smoot, of Columbus, Ohio, has admitted to selling cocaine near a playground, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Smoot, age 31, pled guilty to one count of “Distribution of Cocaine Base within 1,000 Feet of a Protected Location.” Smoot admitted to selling cocaine near the Jensen Playground in Wheeling in June 2017.
Smoot faces up to 40 years incarceration and a fine of up to $2,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven L. Vogrin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.Cherry Creek Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Cherry Creek, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child.
Angelo Ashley, age 20, was indicted on September 11, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 21, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, five years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on March 26, 2016, Ashley did knowingly engage in, and attempt to engage in, a sexual act with a minor who had not yet attained the age of 12 years.
The charge is merely an accusation and Ashley is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook is prosecuting the case.
Ashley was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Cedar Rapids Man Convicted of Conspiring to Manufacture One-Pot Meth Near a Marion SchoolRead the Press Release
A Cedar Rapids man who conspired to make meth was convicted by a jury on November 20, 2018, after a two-day trial in federal court in Cedar Rapids.
Justin Michael Cinkan, age 27, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was convicted of conspiring to manufacture five grams or more of methamphetamine near a school and possessing pseudoephedrine for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine. He was found not guilty of a third charge, manufacturing methamphetamine near a school. The verdict was returned following about two hours of jury deliberations.
The evidence at trial showed that between September 2015 and May 2016, Cinkan purchased over 25 grams of pseudoephedrine for the purpose of cooking into meth. On four other occasions during that time, Cinkan was blocked from purchasing pseudoephedrine as a result of the State of Iowa’s electronic pseudoephedrine tracking system. Trial evidence also showed that Cinkan had other people buy pseudoephedrine and other materials for manufacturing methamphetamine. In the few days prior to May 1, 2016, Cinkan and a woman gathered materials to cook meth at a home in Marion. Cinkan and the woman got into an argument, during which Cinkan threatened to blow up the woman by lighting an active one-pot meth lab on fire. After the woman’s brother found an apparent one-pot meth lab in the house and called authorities, the Marion Police Department discovered the one-pot lab and other meth-making materials in the house.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Cinkan remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Cinkan faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $16,250,000 fine, and a lifetime of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Dan Chatham and Kyndra Lundquist and was investigated by the Marion Police Department.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 18-CR-00053-LTS.
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Canyon County Resident Pleads Guilty to Check Forgery SchemeRead the Press Release
BOISE – Elena C. Lupuleasa, 33, of Nampa, Idaho, pleaded guilty today to bank fraud and aggravated identity theft, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced. Lupuleasa pleaded guilty pursuant to a written plea agreement filed with the Court.
According to the plea agreement, from April 2016 through November 2016, Lupuleasa devised and executed a scheme to defraud banks. The scheme involved obtaining stolen checks, driver’s licenses, and other personal information from residents in Boise and Nampa. Lupuleasa would then forge a check of one victim and make it payable to another theft victim. Lupuleasa would then impersonate the payee and attempt to cash the check at a bank by presenting the stolen driver’s license or other form of identification of the payee.
Sentencing for Lupuleasa is set for February 6, 2019, before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Edward J. Lodge at the federal courthouse in Boise.
Bank fraud is punishable by up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 5 years.
Aggravated identity theft is punishable by a mandatory sentence of two years to run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of one year.
This case was investigated by the Nampa Police Department, Boise Police Department, and Ada County Sheriff’s Office.
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California Man Indicted for Threatening CommunicationsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sacramento, California, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Interstate Communications of Threats to Injure.
Zackary Anthony Mitchell, age 22, was indicted on October 16, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 21, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between December 23, 2017, and January 14, 2018, Mitchell repeatedly texted the victim with threats to injure her and kill the victim’s family.
The charge is merely an accusation and Mitchell is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Mitchell was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Buffalo, NY Man Sentenced to 6+ Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Crack CocaineRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -A New York state resident has been sentenced in federal court to six years and five months in prison on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence yesterday on Waverly Primm, 31, of Buffalo, NY.
According to information presented to the Court, in 2015, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other agencies joined forces in a long-term wiretap investigation of drug trafficking in New Castle, Pa. The investigation revealed that Waverly Primm conspired with others to possess with intent to distribute and distribute crack cocaine, which was transported from Buffalo, NY, to the New Castle area for further distribution.
Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Fischer stated that the sentence was sufficient but not greater than necessary to fulfill the purposes of sentencing.
Assistant United States Attorney Tonya Sulia Goodman prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
U.S. Attorney Brady commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Castle Police Department, and the Lawrence County Drug Task Force for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Primm.
Bozeman man sentenced in firearms caseRead the Press Release
MISSOULA—Bozeman resident Sean O’Neal Carr was sentenced to 21 months in prison and three years of supervised release on Nov. 16 for illegal firearms possession, U.S. Attorney Kurt G. Alme announced.
Carr, 42, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm on Aug. 7.
Chief U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided at the hearing.
An investigation found that Carr, having been convicted of felony drug possession in Montana, possessed a 9mm semi-automatic pistol on Aug. 29, 2017 in Bozeman. Law enforcement arrested Carr after a Bozeman Police officer offered to help Carr and a woman who had been locked out of a vehicle.
As the officer approached, he noticed that Carr was openly carrying a pistol on his hip. Carr used a homemade tool to open the vehicle door and the woman left. When the officer spoke to Carr, he noticed Carr was fidgeting and seemed uncomfortable and that his behavior was similar to those he had seen on methamphetamine. The officer detained Carr after he identified himself and told the officer he was on probation. The officer took possession of the gun, which was loaded with a full magazine and had a round in the chamber.
Carr told law enforcement later that the firearm was a birthday present and that he’d had it for about a month.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee L. Peterson prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Bozeman Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals.
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Billings man sentenced for distributing methRead the Press Release
BILLINGS—U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme announced today that Billings resident Robert John Bigback was sentenced on Tuesday to five years in prison and five years of supervised release for distributing methamphetamine.
Bigback, 23, pleaded guilty on July 16, 2018 to two counts of distribution of meth.
U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided at sentencing.
After receiving information about meth for sale in April 2017, the FBI drug task force used a confidential informant to buy meth from a co-defendant at a hardware store in the Billings Heights. After the co-defendant counted the money, Bigback gave the informant the meth. Another meth sale was arranged a few days later and occurred at Rimrock Mall, where Bigback conducted the sale in the bathroom of a department store. The two sales involved about 20 grams of pure meth, which is the equivalent of about 160 individual doses and has a street value of about $2,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Suek prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI Task Force.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals.
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Baton Rouge Doctor Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Receive Health Care Kickback PaymentsRead the Press Release
BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that GRAY WESLEY BARROW, age 58, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty for his role in a scheme to receive approximately $336,000 in illegal health care kickback payments. As a result of his conviction, BARROW faces a significant term of imprisonment, restitution and fines, and a period of supervised release.
BARROW was a co-owner of Louisiana Spine & Sports LLC, a pain management clinic located in Baton Rouge. According to plea documents, the charge stems from BARROW’s role in agreeing to send urine specimens collected from his patients to a drug testing laboratory in return for a percentage of the reimbursements paid to the laboratory by health care benefit programs, including Medicare. In a hearing before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson, BARROW admitted that from approximately April 2014 through July 2016, he sent specimens collected from his patients to the drug testing laboratory and received approximately $336,000 in disbursements from the laboratory associated with testing for Medicare beneficiaries.
U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This plea is a product of the hard work our office, in coordination with the Department of Justice Fraud Division, Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation have put in to bring Medicare Fraud participants to Justice. It is especially egregious when medical doctors violate their position of trust in the community and the Medicare system to enrich themselves. I want to thank the Department of Justice Fraud Division, the FBI, and Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General for their efforts in this case.”
“Any time greed replaces medical judgment as the motivating factor behind medical procedures, our country’s citizens and health insurance programs suffer,” said Special Agent in Charge C.J. Porter of the United States Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General’s Dallas Regional Office. “This office will continue the important mission of protecting the financial integrity of our nation’s health care systems and ensuring that medical providers are rendering legitimate medical services, and will identify and bring to justice those who deliberately manipulate federally funded health insurance programs to obtain Medicare or Medicaid dollars to which they are not entitled.”
Eric J. Rommal, Special Agent in Charge of the New Orleans Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, stated, “The Federal Bureau of Investigation continues to be dedicated to eliminating health care fraud in Louisiana and nationwide. This case serves as a testament to the tenacity and perseverance of Agents of not only the FBI, but also our partners in the Department of Health and Human Services - Office of the Inspector General, when investigating a complex and long-term fraud scheme. It is our hope that this case will serve as a lesson to medical professionals everywhere that those committing health care fraud in any capacity will be thoroughly investigated and recommended for prosecution.”
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, now operating in 14 cities across the country, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion.
This matter is being handled by the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Field Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant Chief Dustin M. Davis and Trial Attorney Justin M. Woodard of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth E. White.
Amesbury Man and Salisbury Woman Arrested for Child Pornography Offenses, Including ProductionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – An Amesbury man and a Salisbury woman were arrested and charged separately in federal court in Boston in connection with various child pornography offenses, including the sexual exploitation of an infant.
Thomas Cross, 28, of Amesbury, and Desiree Daigle, 23, of Salisbury, were arrested on Nov. 15, 2018, in the course of two separate search warrant executions. Cross was charged with possession, receipt, and distribution of child pornography and Daigle was charged with sexually exploiting a child. On Nov. 19, 2018, Daigle appeared in federal court and was ordered detained pending trial. Cross appeared in federal court on Nov. 20, 2018, and after a hearing, U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Marianne Bowler took the matter of detention under advisement.
According to the charging documents, on Nov. 15, 2018, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Cross’s home and seized several electronic devices. Upon reviewing the devices on scene, law enforcement observed files containing child pornography, as well as chats between Cross and a person he identified as Daigle, in which they exchange various child pornography files. Some of the images depict an infant known to Daigle, apparently taken in Daigle’s home. In the course of the chat, the two discuss plans for Cross to meet the child in person so that they can sexually abuse the child together. Both Cross and Daigle admitted to exchanging child pornography with each other. Forensic analysis of devices seized from both defendants is ongoing.
The charge of sexual exploitation of children provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison. The charges of distribution and receipt of child pornography each provide for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years in prison. The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison. All of the charges provide for a minimum of five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Amesbury, North Andover, Salisbury, Arlington, Billerica, Methuen, and Haverhill Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne Paruti, Lelling’s Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and a member of the Major Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the case.
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Tuesday 20 November 2018
Wilmington Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Heroin DistributionRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Robert J. Higdon, Jr., announced that Chief United States District Judge Terrence W. Boyle sentenced JOHN MICKEY HARRIS, JR., 30, of Wilmington, North Carolina to 120 months of imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release.
On March 19, 2018, HARRIS entered a plea of guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, and felon in possession of a firearm.
A joint investigation between the Wilmington Police Department Gang Unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Safe Streets Unit revealed that between October 2016 and January 2017, HARRIS and others were responsible for the distribution of significant amounts of heroin in the Wilmington, NC area.
From October 2016 through January of 2017, at the direction of law enforcement, several undercover purchases of heroin were made from HARRIS.
On April 11, 2017, law enforcement stopped a car in which HARRIS was a passenger and found a small quantity of heroin. Law enforcement then searched a residence associated with HARRIS in Wilmington, where they found 16 grams of heroin and ammunition. During the course of this investigation, the FBI discovered that following his arrest on these charges, HARRIS directed someone to dispose of a 9mm handgun in the retention pond at the Campus Edge Apartments near the campus of The University of North Carolina Wilmington.
The New Hanover County Fire and Rescue dive team subsequently located the handgun in the retention pond with the aid of a large magnet. Ballistic testing confirmed that the gun had been used in other crimes. At the time he possessed this firearm, HARRIS had a prior federal conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
This case is part of the Take Back North Carolina Initiative implemented by United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina. This initiative emphasizes the regional assignment of federal prosecutors to work with law enforcement and District Attorney’s Offices on a sustained basis in those communities to reduce the violent crime rate, drug trafficking, and crimes against law enforcement.
This investigation was conducted by the Wilmington Police Department Gang Unit, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force and the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy M. Severo handled the prosecution of this case for the government.
Weiser Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Attempted Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
BOISE – Jerry Lynn Moore, 43, of Weiser, Idaho, was sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court to 180 months in prison followed by 10 years supervised release, for attempted sexual exploitation of children, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced. Moore was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge David C. Nye. Moore pleaded guilty on August 14, 2018.
According to the plea agreement, in December 2017, Moore posted a Craigslist advertisement seeking an individual to have sexual contact with “Daddy.” A detective with the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force responded to the ad in an undercover capacity, posing as a 15- year-old girl. Between December 4, 2017 and March 15, 2018, Moore communicated with the undercover officer using the Google voice text application and voicemails. During the online communications, Moore sent numerous messages attempting to persuade, induce, and entice the person he believed to be a 15-year-old child to meet him for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity. Moore also requested the 15-year-old produce and send him videos and images of the child engaged in sexually explicit conduct. On three occasions, Moore sent explicit images of his genitalia to the undercover detective.
On March 18, 2018, the undercover agreed to meet Moore for sexual activity and gave him the address of a residence where she was located. Moore arrived at the location and was arrested by law enforcement. Moore admitted he had arrived at the location to meet up with the 15-year-old for sexual contact, but claimed he could not recall her age.
At sentencing, Judge Nye also ordered Moore to forfeit the desktop computer, cell phone, and tablet used in the commission of the offense. As a result of his conviction, Moore will be required to register as a sex offender.
This case was investigated by the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, and was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Washington County Man Sentenced to Prison for Armed Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Washington County, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of three years and five months, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction on a charge of armed bank robbery, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence yesterday on Gary White, 21, formerly of Fredericktown, Pa.
According to information presented to the court, on September 20, 2017, White robbed the PNC Bank on Saw Mill Run Blvd with a knife. White instructed one of the two tellers to open the glass partition separating the tellers from the public. When the teller could not remove the glass, White removed the window. He then climbed through the window and ordered the tellers to open several safes located behind the teller counter. He also advised the tellers that he had a gun while motioning towards his hip. The tellers backed away and White removed piles of cash from each safe and placed them into a red drawstring bag that he was carrying. He took $111,409 before fleeing the bank in his vehicle. Authorities were able to identify White from surveillance video as well as his vehicle’s registration. Law enforcement executed search warrants on his apartment and car. The search warrant on the car revealed the red Under Armour bag, containing $103,309, as well as the clothing worn during the robbery and the knife. White turned himself in a few days later and confessed to the robbery.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with the Allegheny County Police and Brentwood Police Departments, conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of this case.
Virginia Couple Pleads Guilty to Operating Interstate Prostitution RingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Virginia husband and wife pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to their roles in operating a long-running interstate prostitution ring.
Yoon I. Kim, 36, and Taehee Kim, a/k/a “Hyunsook Kim,” 46, both of Haymarket, Va., each pleaded guilty in separate hearings to one count of conspiracy to persuade, induce, entice, or coerce individuals to travel in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution, and one count of conspiracy to engage in money laundering. U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled Yoon Kim’s sentencing for Feb. 12, 2019, and U.S. Senior District Court Judge Douglas P. Woodlock also scheduled Taehee Kim’s sentencing for Feb. 12, 2019.
Co-conspirators Jineok Kim, 38, of Watertown, Mass., and Susan Bashir, a/k/a “Susan Redmon,” a/k/a “Susan Redmond,” 41, of Stone Mountain, Ga., previously pleaded guilty to the same charges. Kyung Song, 52, of Lexington, Mass., pleaded guilty to conspiracy to engage in money laundering. Bashir is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 11, 2018; Jineok Kim on Jan. 9, 2019; and Song on Jan. 29, 2019.
From at least 2013 until March 2018 when they were arrested, the defendants operated an interstate prostitution network with multiple brothels in high-end apartments in Cambridge, Mass.; Atlanta, Ga.; and eastern Virginia. They advertised appointments with Asian women primarily on three websites: www.bostonasiandolls.com, www.exoticasiansatlanta.com, and www.redhotflowers69.com. The women advertised on the websites were moved from city to city within the network, at Taehee Kim’s direction, working as prostitutes for the organization. Co-conspirators collected the cash earnings from the women working at the brothels and funneled the money into accounts controlled by Yoon and Taehee Kim. Co-conspirators also used U.S. Postal money orders and the U.S. Mail to transport proceeds around the prostitution network. Yoon Kim rented several of the brothel locations, including multiple apartments in and around Cambridge.
The charge of conspiracy to persuade, induce, entice, or coerce women to travel in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution provides for a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain/loss, whichever is greater. The charge of conspiracy to engage in money laundering provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the money laundering transactions, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Andrew E. Lelling; Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Joseph W. Cronin, Postal Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Field Division; and Cambridge Police Commissioner Branville G. Bard Jr. made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David J. D’Addio and Amy Harman Burkart of Lelling’s Civil Rights Enforcement Team are prosecuting the case.
Venezuelan Billionaire News Network Owner, Former Venezuelan National Treasurer and Former Owner of Dominican Republic Bank Charged in Money Laundering Conspiracy Involving over $1 Billion in BribesRead the Press Release
A Venezuelan billionaire who owns Globovision news network was charged in an indictment unsealed yesterday for his role in a billion-dollar currency exchange and money laundering scheme. A former Venezuelan national treasurer and a former owner of Banco Peravia bank in the Dominican Republic each pleaded guilty in proceedings unsealed today for their roles in the scheme.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan of the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Mark Selby of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Mark B. Dawson of HSI Houston Field Office, Special Agent in Charge George L. Piro of the FBI Miami Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Peter C. Fitzhugh and Inspector General Jay N. Lerner of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s (FDIC) Washington, D.C. Office made the announcement.
Raul Gorrin Belisario (Gorrin), 50, a Venezuelan citizen with a residence in Miami, Florida, was charged in an indictment filed on Aug. 16, 2018 in the Southern District of Florida with one count of conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and nine counts of money laundering. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge William P. Dimitrouleas of the Southern District of Florida. Alejandro Andrade Cedeno (Andrade), 54, a Venezuelan citizen residing in Wellington, Florida and a former Venezuelan national treasurer, pleaded guilty under seal on Dec. 22, 2017 before U.S. District Judge Robin L. Rosenberg of the Southern District of Florida to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Gabriel Arturo Jimenez Aray (Jimenez), 50, a Venezuelan citizen residing in Chicago, Illinois and former owner of Banco Peravia bank, pleaded guilty under seal on March 20, 2018 in the Southern District of Florida before Judge Rosenberg to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Charges against Andrade and Jimenez were unsealed today.
The indictment alleges that Gorrin paid millions of dollars in bribes to two high-level Venezuelan officials, including Andrade, to secure the rights to conduct foreign currency exchange transactions at favorable rates for the Venezuelan government. In addition to wiring money to and for the officials, Gorrin allegedly purchased and paid expenses for them related to private jets, yachts, homes, champion horses, high-end watches and a fashion line. To conceal the bribe payments, Gorrin made payments through multiple shell companies. Gorrin allegedly partnered with Jimenez to acquire Banco Peravia, a bank in the Dominican Republic, to launder bribes paid to Venezuelan officials and proceeds of the scheme.
As part of his guilty plea, Andrade admitted that he received over $1 billion in bribes from Gorrin and other co-conspirators in exchange for using his position as Venezuelan national treasurer to select them to conduct currency exchange transactions for the Venezuelan government. As part of his plea agreement, Andrade agreed to a forfeiture money judgment of $1 billion and forfeiture of all assets involved in the corrupt scheme, including real estate, vehicles, horses, watches, aircraft and bank accounts. His sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 27.
As part of his guilty plea, Jimenez admitted that, as part of the scheme, he conspired with Gorrin and others to acquire Banco Peravia, through which he helped launder bribe money and scheme proceeds. His sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 29.
HSI Miami, HSI Houston, HSI Boston, FBI Miami, and the FDIC D.C. investigated this case. This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Vanessa Sisti Snyder, Paul A. Hayden and John-Alex Romano of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael B. Nadler and Nalina Sombuntham of the Southern District of Florida’s Criminal Division. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in this matter. The Policía Nacional (Spanish National Police) also provided significant assistance.
The Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting all FCPA matters. Additional information about the department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa.
The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Venezuelan Billionaire News Network Owner, Former Venezuelan National Treasurer and Former Owner of Dominican Republic Bank Charged in Money Laundering Conspiracy Involving over $1 Billion in BribesRead the Press Release
A Venezuelan billionaire who owns Globovision news network was charged in an indictment unsealed yesterday for his role in a billion-dollar currency exchange and money laundering scheme. A former Venezuelan national treasurer and a former owner of Banco Peravia bank in the Dominican Republic each pleaded guilty in proceedings unsealed today for their roles in the scheme.
U.S. Attorney Ariana Fajardo Orshan of the Southern District of Florida, Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge Mark Selby of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Mark B. Dawson of HSI Houston Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Peter C. Fitzhugh of HSI Boston Field Office, Special Agent in Charge George L. Piro of the FBI Miami Field Office and Inspector General Jay N. Lerner of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s (FDIC) Washington, D.C. Office made the announcement.
Raul Gorrin Belisario (Gorrin), 50, a Venezuelan citizen with a residence in Miami, Florida, was charged in an indictment filed on Aug. 16, 2017 in the Southern District of Florida with one count of conspiracy to violate the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and nine counts of money laundering. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge William P. Dimitrouleas of the Southern District of Florida. Alejandro Andrade Cedeno (Andrade), 54, a Venezuelan citizen residing in Wellington, Florida and a former Venezuelan national treasurer, pleaded guilty under seal on Dec. 22, 2017 before U.S. District Judge Robin L. Rosenberg of the Southern District of Florida to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Gabriel Arturo Jimenez Aray (Jimenez), 50, a Venezuelan citizen residing in Chicago, Illinois and former owner of Banco Peravia bank, pleaded guilty under seal on March 20, 2018 in the Southern District of Florida before Judge Rosenberg to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Charges against Andrade and Jimenez were unsealed today.
The indictment alleges that Gorrin paid millions of dollars in bribes to two high-level Venezuelan officials, including Andrade, to secure the rights to conduct foreign currency exchange transactions at favorable rates for the Venezuelan government. In addition to wiring money to and for the officials, Gorrin allegedly purchased and paid expenses for them related to private jets, yachts, homes, champion horses, high-end watches and a fashion line. To conceal the bribe payments, Gorrin made payments through multiple shell companies. Gorrin allegedly partnered with Jimenez to acquire Banco Peravia, a bank in the Dominican Republic, to launder bribes paid to Venezuelan officials and proceeds of the scheme.
As part of his guilty plea, Andrade admitted that he received over $1 billion in bribes from Gorrin and other co-conspirators in exchange for using his position as Venezuelan national treasurer to select them to conduct currency exchange transactions for the Venezuelan government. As part of his plea agreement, Andrade agreed to a forfeiture money judgment of $1 billion and forfeiture of all assets involved in the corrupt scheme, including real estate, vehicles, horses, watches, aircraft and bank accounts. His sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 27.
As part of his guilty plea, Jimenez admitted that, as part of the scheme, he conspired with Gorrin and others to acquire Banco Peravia, through which he helped launder bribe money and scheme proceeds. His sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 29.
HSI Miami, HSI Houston, HSI Boston, FBI Miami, and the FDIC D.C. investigated this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael B. Nadler and Nalina Sombuntham of the Southern District of Florida’s Criminal Division and Trial Attorneys Vanessa Sisti Snyder, Paul A. Hayden and John-Alex Romano of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in this matter. The Policía Nacional (Spanish National Police) also provided significant assistance.
The Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting all FCPA matters. Additional information about the department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa.
The charges in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
Unity Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Firearm CrimeRead the Press Release
CONCORD – Lucas MacLean, 27, formerly of Unity, was sentenced to serve 51 months in prison for federal firearms crimes, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.
According to court documents and statements made in court, MacLean induced Jacob Perra, 28, of Goshen to purchase a handgun for him from a firearms dealer in New Hampshire on April 30, 2014. MacLean financed the purchase and later took possession of the gun. Maclean was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing firearms.
MacLean pleaded guilty on July 27, 2018.
Perra previously was convicted for his role in the offense.
“Federal firearms laws are designed to keep guns out of the hands of criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “In order to reduce violent crime, those laws must be strictly enforced. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who obtain firearms illegally, as well as those who help felons to obtain guns.”
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Newport Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Arnold H. Huftalen.
The case is part of ATF’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, which is a federally-funded program intended to reduce gun violence through law enforcement training, public education, and aggressive law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute gun-related crimes.
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Two Women Sentenced for Roles in Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
BOISE - Sara Beth Cummings, 36, of Boise, Idaho, and Candelaria Sanchez, 43, of Las Vegas, Nevada, were sentenced today in U.S. District Court for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced. Senior U.S. District Court Judge Edward J. Lodge sentenced Cummings to 21 months, and Sanchez to 84 months, in prison. Judge Lodge also ordered that both serve a period of supervised release after their prison sentences.
According to court records, between February and March 2018, Sanchez worked with others to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine in the Boise area. Investigators learned that Sanchez was driving large loads of methamphetamine from Las Vegas to Boise, where she delivered it to a dealer who was living with Cummings. On March 15, 2018, investigators stopped Sanchez outside of Cummings’ home, seizing 13 pounds of methamphetamine from her vehicle. In Cummings’ home, officers found more methamphetamine and over $40,000 in cash. Investigators determined that Cummings allowed her home to be used to conceal the drug trafficking conspiracy.
In July of this year, Sanchez pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. In September of this year, Cummings pled guilty to misprision of a felony.
The case was the result of a joint investigation by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), which includes the cooperative law enforcement efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation; and the U.S. Marshals Service. Along with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department, Boise Police Department, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, and Meridian Police Department investigated the case.
The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.
This case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Board. The Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Board is a collaboration of local law enforcement drug task forces and prosecuting agencies dedicated to addressing regional drug trafficking organizations that operate in Ada and Canyon County.
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Two Plead Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Mike Stuart announced that two defendants pled guilty to federal drug charges before United States District Judge Irene C. Berger. Darla Reed, 39, of Alderson, pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine. Jacqueline Pauley, 29, of Sophia, pled guilty to aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine. Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force.
“Unfortunately, meth seems to be the drug of choice throughout much of southern West Virginia,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Drug task forces are working closely with us to get meth dealers off the streets.”
Reed admitted that on June 13, 2018, she used text messages to arrange to purchase an ounce of methamphetamine from Jacqueline Pauley and another person. Later, Pauley and the other person met Reed in Sam Black Church in Greenbrier County, where Pauley distributed about an ounce of methamphetamine to Reed. Reed was immediately stopped by police and admitted that she intended to sell some of the methamphetamine that she had just purchased from Pauley. Pauley admitted that she had helped set up and complete the deal with Reed.
Each defendant faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on March 6, 2019. Assistant United States Attorney John File is handling the prosecution.
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Two Men Sentenced for Carjacking and Firing at Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
A federal judge sentenced two men today in U.S. District Court for conspiring to brandish a firearm during a Dec. 26, 2017, carjacking, and for firing at a Tulsa police officer during the resulting pursuit, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores.
U.S. District Judge John E. Dowdell sentenced Brandon Mendinghall, 24, of Stillwater, to 16 years in federal prison. As part of his guilty plea on Aug. 20, Mendinghall admitted to conspiring to rob a woman at gun point, steal the car she was driving and assist his co-conspirator during a police pursuit.
At a separate hearing, Judge Dowdell sentenced his co-conspirator, Michael Newlin, 19, of Owasso, to 32 years in federal prison for multiple charges, including conspiracy to carry, brandish and use a firearm during a crime of violence; carjacking; brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, obstruction of justice by attempting to kill a witness; and discharging a firearm at an officer.
On Aug. 9, Newlin pleaded guilty to the charges, admitting that he brandished the firearm during the carjacking and fired at the officer while evading arrest.
“Project Safe Neighborhoods was designed to prosecute violent criminals like Newlin and Mendinghall. These two defendants bought a ticket to federal prison the moment they decided to carjack the victims and then shoot at a police officer,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “The facts of this case are a stark reminder of the frequent dangers encountered by police officers as they risk their lives to protect our community. Tulsa is a safer place with these two behind bars. Thanks to the joint local-federal investigations and prosecutions in this case, these defendants will face serious consequences for their acts.”
Both men have been and will remain in custody until transferred to a U.S. Bureau of Prison’s facility.
The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, and Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office were the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan M. Roberts and Christopher J. Nassar represented the United States in this prosecution. Law enforcement, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office partnered in this case as part of the Justice Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Project Safe Neighborhoods is the nationwide federal initiative to disrupt gun violence strategically and comprehensively, using all available enforcement and prosecutive tools. The initiative involves a partnership of federal, state, and local authorities, uniting their efforts and leveraging existing and new resources. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and its partners tailor their efforts to meet their own district’s unique needs, helping ensure the safety of communities in the Northern District of Oklahoma.
Two Hunterdon County, New Jersey, Women Sentenced to Federal Prison Terms for Conspiracy to Distribute OxycodoneRead the Press Release
TRENTON, N.J. – Two Hunterdon County, New Jersey, women were sentenced today to federal prison terms for their respective roles in an oxycodone distribution conspiracy in Flemington, New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Michele Call, 63, of Flemington, New Jersey, was sentenced to 54 months in prison and Nelida Rios, 55, also of Flemington, was sentenced to 48 months in prison. Both defendants previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Freda Wolfson to informations charging them each with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone. Judge Wolfson imposed the sentences today in Trenton federal court.
According to the documents filed in the case and statements made in Court:
From April 2016 through December 2017, Rios, Call and Call’s daughter, Alicia Balaban, 35, of Wellington, Florida, worked together to secure prescriptions for oxycodone, fill them at pharmacies in Flemington, and then distribute the pills to Marie DeJulia, 42, of Lodi, New Jersey, from Call’s and Rios’ Flemington residences for resale. The conspirators distributed thousands of 30 mg oxycodone pills.
In addition to the prison terms, Judge Wolfson sentenced both women to three years of supervised release, and fined them each $1,000. She ordered forfeiture of $40,000 from Call and $42,000 from Rios.
Balaban and DeJulia have also pleaded guilty and are scheduled to be sentenced next week.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Jersey Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Valerie A. Nickerson in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencings.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Alfonzo Walsman, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Public Protection Unit in Newark.
Defense counsel:
DeJulia: John Azzarello Esq., Morristown, New Jersey
Balaban: Clifford Lazzaro Esq., Elizabeth, New Jersey
Call: Jason LeBoeuf Esq., Newark
Rios: Michael Pedicini Esq., Chatham, New JerseyTwo Defendants Sentenced to Prison for Roles in Alien Harboring Scheme Involving Labor Exploitation of Domestic ServantRead the Press Release
Defendants Michael Wood, 54, and Mary Wood, 46, of Mullica Hill, New Jersey, were sentenced yesterday in federal court to 20 months in prison and ordered to pay $46,320 in restitution to the victim in this case. A jury convicted both defendants of harboring an alien for financial gain and conspiracy to harbor an alien on June 6, 2017. Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Special Agent in Charge Marlon V. Miller of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Philadelphia announced the sentences.
According to evidence presented in court and other court documents, in August 2005, the defendants recruited a young Kenyan woman to care for their minor children in New Jersey and arranged for her to enter the United States illegally using a fraudulent British passport. The defendants required the victim to perform domestic work and childcare at their home seven days a week, paying her a mere $200 a month. To conceal the victim’s immigration status from authorities, the defendants prohibited her from leaving their house, except to walk the children to school, and instructed her not to talk to anyone outside of the house and defendants’ family. In June 2006, members of defendant Mary Wood’s family moved the victim to their homes, where they continued to harbor her and exploit her domestic labor, until the victim managed to leave in 2011.
“The defendants exploited the domestic labor of a young Kenyan woman, for minimal pay, circumventing immigration law,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband. “Today’s sentences demonstrate the Department of Justice’s commitment to seeking justice for vulnerable individuals across the country and holding defendants who commit these despicable and unconscionable crimes accountable.”
“The sentencing of Mr. and Mrs. Wood emphasizes the severity of crimes that oppress victims of unconscionable domestic labor practices,” said Special Agent in Charge Marlon V. Miller, HSI Philadelphia. “Homeland Security Investigations vigorously pursues those who take advantage of vulnerable victims of forced servitude for their own personal gain. This case again underscores the importance of educating the public on these schemes, seeking justice for victims and holding violators accountable.”
Six additional defendants, including members of defendant Mary Wood’s family who harbored the victim from 2006 to 2011, previously pleaded guilty in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and were sentenced for their roles in the continuing alien harboring and labor exploitation scheme. The defendants were also ordered to pay more than $233,000 in combined restitution to the victim.
The case was investigated by ICE Homeland Security Investigations Philadelphia and prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Anita Channapati and Shan Patel of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section and Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit.
Two Arrested on Enticement & Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE - Two Cranston men have been arrested after separate investigations revealed they allegedly communicated with minors in other states via the Internet, attempting to entice them to engage in sexual activity. Their communications allegedly included the transmission of sexually explicit photographs.
On Friday, Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of members of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Cranston Police, arrested Raymond Gliottone, 35, in his basement apartment on charges of attempted enticement of a minor to engage in prohibited sexual activity and access with intent to view child pornography. It is alleged that Gliottone attempted to entice a 15-year-old girl in Maine. The communications allegedly included sexually explicit conversations, images of his genitalia, and encouraging the minor to run away with him.
Gliottone was ordered detained on Monday following an initial appearance before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Lincoln D. Almond.
In a separate investigation, FBI agents, assisted by the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Cranston Police, and Warwick Police, today arrested Paul Stabile, Jr., 38, on charges of transfer of obscene material to a minor under the age of 16, and possession and access with intent to view child pornography. It is alleged that Stabile, while purporting be a young woman a named “Cindy Mennillo,” communicated via the Internet and attempted to entice a 14-year-old boy in Nevada. The communications allegedly included sexually explicit conversations and the transmission of sexually explicit photographs purporting to be “Cindy Mennillo.”
During today’s arrest, law enforcement executed a court-authorized search of Stabile’s basement apartment and seized several digital storage devices.
Stabile was ordered detained in home confinement by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan following an initial appearance in U.S. District Court.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation 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.
The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.
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Topeka Man Pleads Guilty to Robbing Credit UnionRead the Press Release
TOPEKA, KAN. – A Topeka man pleaded guilty today to robbing a local credit union, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Robert Charles Frazier, 63, Topeka, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. In his plea, he admitted that on Aug. 20, 2018, he robbed the Azura Credit Union at 1129 S. Kansas Avenue in Topeka. He told a teller, “This is a robbery. Give me your twenties, fifties and hundreds.” After receiving the money, he left the building and sat down on a nearby wall. An off-duty Topeka police officer working security arrested him.
Sentencing is set for Feb. 26. Both parties have agreed to recommend a sentence of five years in federal prison. McAllister commended the Topeka Police Department and the FBI for their work on the case.
Todd County Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Todd County, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault by Striking, Beating and Wounding.
Franklin Jones, age 37, was indicted on October 16, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on November 16, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 1 year in federal prison and/or a $100,000 fine, 1 year of supervised release, and $25 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on September 1, 2018, Jones unlawfully and repeatedly assaulted two individuals.
The charges are merely accusations and Jones is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Jones was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Three men from Northeast Ohio, including two former U.S. Postal Service employees, were sentenced to prison for their roles in the armed robbery of postal carrierRead the Press Release
Three men from Northeast Ohio, including two former U.S. Postal Service employees, were sentenced to prison for their roles in the armed robbery of a postal carrier in which they were trying to steal packages containing marijuana.
Cortez Anderson, 29, of Oakwood Village, was sentenced to more than nine years in prison. Jabar Hogan, 34, of Cleveland, and Roy Malone, 34, of Bedford Heights, were both sentenced to nearly two years in prison.
A juvenile who was also involved in the robbery was sentenced to three years in a juvenile detention facility.
According to court documents:
The juvenile pointed a gun at the letter carrier on Oct. 30, 2017 in Euclid, when he told the carrier to “start walking” and retrieved a parcel addressed to a nearby apartment complex from the rear of a postal vehicle.
Security video nearby had images of a gray Dodge Charger that the juvenile drove in. A search of police databases revealed the vehicle was owned by Hogan, who worked at the Postal Service’s Processing and Distribution Center on Orange Avenue in Cleveland.
Further investigation revealed that Anderson paid Hogan with cash or marijuana for information about parcels fitting the profile of packages believed to contain marijuana. Hogan sent Anderson tracking numbers of the packages in order for Anderson to intercept the package either at its destination or, as in this case, straight from the postal truck. Anderson sold marijuana and was believed to be affiliated with the Heartless Felons gang.
Monitored phone calls between members of the group revealed that Malone – also an employee at the Orange Avenue Processing and Distribution Center -- was the driver of the vehicle, while the juvenile used a firearm during the robbery and Anderson was in the car at the time of the robbery.
“These defendants put the letter carrier and public at risk with this armed robbery,” U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman said.
U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General Special Agent in Charge Kenneth Cleevely stated: “The vast majority of the 600,000 postal employees nationwide are hard-working, trustworthy individuals. However, a few of them decide to violate that trust and use their positions for personal gain. In this case, these individuals will have several years in federal prison to think about their terrible decision. They have lost their careers, pension, and freedom for a few dollars. Postal employees need to realize when they steal drug parcels from the mail, the put their fellow employees at risk. USPS OIG special agents and postal inspectors will aggressively investigate those using the postal system to traffic narcotics, and those employees who are involved. To report postal employee criminal activity or drugs being sent in the mail, please contact www.uspsoig.gov or 888-USPS-OIG.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elliot Morrison and Scott Zarzycki following an investigation by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Three individuals arrested, charged with conspiracy to kidnap and kill business associate in MexicoRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – November 20, 2018
SAN DIEGO – Yesterday, federal authorities charged Salam Razuki, Sylvia Gonzales and Elizabeth Juarez with offenses related to a conspiracy to kidnap and kill a business associate over a dispute involving real estate investment properties, most of which were leased to marijuana dispensaries. All three defendants were arrested last week.
According to the complaint, in October 2018, Salam Razuki and Sylvia Gonzales met with a Confidential Human Source and asked the source to arrange to kill one of their business associates, N.M. (name redacted for privacy reasons). Razuki and Gonzales stated that they had invested in multiple properties and business ventures with N.M. and were now involved in a civil dispute over their assets. They wanted the source to “shoot him in the face,” “to take him to Mexico and have him whacked,” or kill him in some other way. Razuki and Gonzales provided the source with a picture of N.M.
In subsequent conversations earlier this month, defendants Razuki and Gonzales, eventually joined by Elizabeth Juarez, reiterated their desire to have N.M., who they nicknamed “the midget,” taken to Mexico and killed, with Gonzales and Juarez stating they wanted to “put the turkey up to roast before Thanksgiving.” Defendants offered to pay the source $2,000, with $1,000 to be paid immediately. Defendant Gonzales went to the Goldn Bloom Dispensary and returned with $1,000 cash, which defendants provided to the source along with two addresses for N.M.
The complaint further states that on or about November 13, 2018, Gonzales called the source and indicated that she and Razuki would be with N.M. in court at the Hall of Justice at 330 West Broadway in San Diego. Gonzales asked the source to join them in order to see N.M. in person. The source declined going into the courtroom, but agreed to stand outside the building and wait for N.M. to exit. While inside the Hall of Justice, Gonzales took a picture of N.M. with her phone, sent it to the source and then called the source to describe what N.M. was wearing. Gonzales left the Hall of Justice and met with the source to further describe N.M. During this meeting, Gonzales identified the locations of two businesses N.M. manages and stated “if they take him now, it’s gunna be good.” Gonzales went back into the courthouse and provided updates as N.M. was departing the Hall of Justice, to ensure the source observed N.M. as he left.
According to the complaint, on November 15, 2018, the source met with Razuki and stated, “I took care of it.” Razuki replied, “So he will take care of it, or it’s done?” The source replied, “Done.” Razuki quickly changed the subject to discuss other business investments and pending loans. Later in the conversation, the source asked whether Razuki wanted to see proof. Razuki replied, “No, I'm ok with it. I don't want to see it.” The source then requested the remainder of the agreed-upon payment and Razuki indicated Gonzales would handle this.
The complaint reflects that defendants’ business dispute with N.M. involved approximately $40 million. In an interview with FBI, N.M. advised that he had invested in real estate with Razuki in order to lease buildings to various entities, which were primarily marijuana dispensaries.
Detention hearings for defendants Salam Razuki and Elizabeth Juarez are scheduled to occur on Tuesday, November 27, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mitchell Dembin.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Fred Sheppard.
*The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
DEFENDANT Case Number 18MJ5915
Salam Razuki
Sylvia Gonzales
Elizabeth Juarez
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Title 18, United States Code, Section 956 - Conspiracy to kill, kidnap, maim an individual
Title 18, United States Code, Section 1201(c) - Conspiracy to kidnap
INVESTIGATING AGENCIES
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Thompsontown Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Disabled Veteran of $316,360Read the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jason Ehrhart, age 48, of Thompsontown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty today before Chief United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner for defrauding a disabled Veteran, the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA), and the Social Security Administration (SSA) out of $316,360.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, Jason Ehrhart was charged by way of a criminal information on October 29, 2018, with one count of health care fraud. Jason’s former wife, Laurie Ehrhart, age 48, of Newport, Pennsylvania, was indicted on October 24, 2018, with one count of health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. The charges against the couple relate to their misappropriation of a veteran’s disability benefits.
In 1985 while serving in the U.S. Army, a veteran who was a former resident of Perry County, Pennsylvania, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. In 1998 the veteran began receiving disability benefits from the (VA and in 2006 began receiving disability benefits from the SSA. The veteran was eventually hospitalized on a permanent basis at the VA hospital in Lebanon, Pennsylvania in November of 2004.
In August of 2006, the veteran was deemed by the VA to be incompetent to handle his own financial affairs. As a result, on October 2, 2006, Jason Ehrhart applied to serve as the veteran’s VA Fiduciary and Legal Custodian. Under the terms of a Fiduciary Agreement, Jason Ehrhart agreed to use all of the veteran’s VA disability benefits exclusively for the veteran’s benefit. The agreement warned him that the funds were not for his personal use. The Fiduciary Agreement also required Jason Ehrhart to submit an annual accounting to the VA with respect to the amount of money spent on the veteran’s behalf.
While Jason Ehrhart served as the veteran’s VA Fiduciary and Legal Custodian, all of the veteran’s VA benefits, plus most of his Social Security disability checks, were deposited into a checking account Jason opened at The Orrstown Bank. Altogether, $476,260 in federal benefits ($422,828 in VA disability, $48,187 in Social Security disability, and $5,244 in VA clothing allowance) were deposited into the account between January 2009 and August 2016.
According to Jason Ehrhart’s criminal information and Laurie Ehrhart’s indictment, at least $316,360 of the $476,260 was misappropriated by Jason and Laurie Ehrhart and converted to their own use between October 2006 and August 2016. Checks totaling $218,832 ($96,202 payable to Jason Ehrhart and $122,630 payable to Laurie Ehrhart), were drawn against the account. Of the $218,832, $157,742 was deposited into Jason and Laurie Ehrhart’s joint checking account at the Juniata Valley Bank (JVB) and at least $23,496 was converted to cash. Thereafter, the funds in the joint JVB account were employed by Jason and Laurie Ehrhart to pay their personal expenses.
Another $7,174 in checks were made payable to Jason and Laurie Ehrhart’s two minor children. According to the charges Jason Ehrhart instructed the children to take the checks to the bank, cash them, and to surrender the cash to him.
Another $19,890 in checks were made payable to another couple who were Jason and Laurie Ehrhart’s best friends. According to the charges Jason Ehrhart regularly treated the couple and their children to dinners out and at least two, all-expense paid vacations to Disney World in Florida, purchased two automobiles for the family, and paid for the wife’s dental work.
To conceal his embezzlements, Jason Ehrhart submitted eight false annual accountings to the VA in which he falsely claimed he spent $402,408 on the veteran’s behalf between October 2006 and October 2015. The itemized expenditures in the accountings were grossly inflated. For example, Jason Ehrhart claimed he paid the mortgage on the veteran’s residence ($1,631 per month) plus the veteran’s share of the mortgage on his mother’s residence ($881) after she died in May 2011. However, the lenders against both properties obtained judgments and they were eventually foreclosed and sold.
Jason Ehrhart also falsely claimed in the annual accountings that he spent thousands on miscellaneous expenditures for the veteran, including storage unit rentals, vehicle maintenance bills, state and local taxes, life and auto insurance, and credit card bills. However, in 2016 the veteran’s specially equipped wheelchair van, for which Jason Ehrhart claimed he spent approximately $32,395 for vehicle maintenance, was found broken down and abandoned along a Perry County roadside.
The veteran died at the Lebanon VA Medical Center on July 30, 2018.
Jason Ehrhart agreed to make full restitution of the monies owed to the veteran’s estate. No date was set by Chief Judge Conner for Jason Ehrhart’s sentencing pending preparation of a presentence report. Laurie Ehrhart is currently scheduled for trial on January 8, 2019.
The Department of Veteran Affairs, the Office of Inspector General, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel is prosecuting the case.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 10 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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