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Wednesday 7 November 2018
12 Charged in Investigation into Drug Trafficking in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny CountiesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – Twelve Western Pennsylvania residents have been charged in a superseding indictment by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The eight-count superseding indictment named:
Shawn Hendrix, 42, of Cranberry Township, PA;
Nikia Perkins, 44, of Monaca, PA;
Adrian Jordan, 28, of Braddock, PA;
Leroy George, 49, of Johnstown, PA;
Thomas Hannon, 36, of Aliquippa, PA;
Aleece Bowser, 32, of Monaca, PA;
Ashley Miller, 33, of Aliquippa, PA;
Carlisha Williams, 29, of Aliquippa, PA;
Sheila Alford, 61, of Aliquippa, PA;
Michael Henry, 36, of McKeesport, PA;
Jeremy Fooks, 32, of Pittsburgh, PA; and
Terry Johnson, 34, of McKees Rocks, PA.
According to the superseding indictment, from in and around September 2016, continuing until in and around July 2017, the defendants conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and a quantity of heroin. In addition, on various dates during the course of the conspiracy, defendants Shawn Hendrix, Nikia Perkins, Adrian Jordan, Aleece Bowser, Ashley Miller, Carlisha Williams, and Sheila Alford are charged with the crimes of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl or carfentanil, and/or attempts to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl. Defendant Jeremy Fooks is further charged with possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
For the drug charges, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 and years up to life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both. For the ammunition charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert C. Schupansky is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution is part of a long-term investigation by the FBI Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force (GPSSTF), which targeted a large scale Drug Trafficking Organization operating in Butler, Beaver and Allegheny Counties. The GPSSTF is comprised of dedicated law enforcement professionals from the Wilkinsburg Police Department, Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Allegheny County Police Department, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the FBI. The GPSSTF and the United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Pennsylvania, would like to recognize the significant contributions made to this investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, United Sates Postal Inspection Service, Cranberry Township Police Department and the New Brighton Police Department. The Department of Homeland Security Investigators also assisted in the investigation leading to the Superseding Indictment in this case.
This investigation was funded by the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Program (OCDETF). The OCDETF program supplies critical federal funding and coordination that allows federal and state agencies to work together to successfully identify, investigate, and prosecute major interstate and international drug trafficking organizations and other criminal enterprises.
A superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Tuesday 6 November 2018
Wyoming County Man Charged with Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death and Serious Bodily InjuryRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that James Eugene Rought, age 30, of Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania, was indicted on October 16, 2018, by a federal grand jury for drug distribution resulting in death and serious bodily injury. The case was unsealed following Rought’s initial appearance.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that on or about August 16, 2018, Rought knowingly and intentionally distributed and possessed with intent to distribute fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, causing the death of one person and serious bodily injury to another.
The charges stem from a joint investigation involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Scranton, the Wyoming County District Attorney’s Office, and the Wyoming County Detectives. United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski is prosecuting 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 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.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
In this case, the maximum penalty under the federal statute for drug distribution resulting in death is life imprisonment. The maximum penalty for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance is 20 years imprisonment and a $1,000,000 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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Windsor Man Pleads Guilty to Enticing Minor to Engage in SexRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ANDREW CUNNINGHAM, 38, formerly of Windsor, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton in New Haven to one count of count of enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in March 2017, Cunningham began communicating with a 13-year-old female on Omegle, a website and mobile application designed to pair strangers for text and video chats. Cunningham first told the minor victim that he was 17, and later stated he was 25. Cunningham and the minor victim then communicated via text messaging and phone calls for approximately one week. During that time, Cunningham enticed the minor victim to send him sexually explicit images of herself, and attempted to lure her to travel to Connecticut.
Cunningham has been in state custody since May 2, 2017, when he was arrested on related state charges. He pleaded guilty in state court to illegal sexual contact with a minor and enticement of a minor, and is currently serving a three-year state sentence.
Cunningham was a registered sex offender and was on probation at the time of the offense. In 2014, Cunningham traveled to Illinois and engaged in sexual activity with a 14-year-old girl. He had told the girl he was 25 years old when, in fact, he was 34 at the time. In 2015, he was convicted in Illinois of aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a minor and was sentenced to five years in prison and two years of mandatory supervised release. He was released from prison in December 2016.
Judge Arterton scheduled sentencing for February 15, 2019, at which time Cunningham faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Connecticut State Police, with the assistance of Connecticut State Parole. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford.
Webster County Woman Sentenced to Prison for Role in Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- A Webster County woman was sentenced to 103 months in prison for her role in a methamphetamine conspiracy, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. In June after a two-day trial, a federal jury convicted Jaclyn Burkholder, 30, of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine between January and February 2017. The investigation was conducted by the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
“Burkholder will now be joining her meth trafficking co-conspirators in federal prison,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “One at a time, we are shutting down these drug networks that have been bringing poisons into our communities.”
Jaclyn Burkholder is the sixth person to be convicted and sentenced for distributing methamphetamine in related cases. Burkholder, along with Quinton Funk, Carl Clark, and Jamie Harmon, brought approximately four kilograms of crystal methamphetamine from Atlanta to Charleston. On January 12, 2017, officers with MDENT executed a search warrant at a hotel room and found over 130 grams of methamphetamine, scales, baggies, and a gun. The methamphetamine was part of the approximately four kilograms Burkholder and others brought back from Atlanta, and it was lab-tested and confirmed to be over 90% pure.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the trial and imposed Burkholder’s sentence.
Five other defendants involved in this methamphetamine conspiracy have also been sentenced to federal prison. Quinton Funk, of Webster Springs, was sentenced to 21 years and 10 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Carl Clark, of South Charleston, was sentenced to 135 months in prison for distributing methamphetamine. Jamie Harmon, of South Charleston, was sentenced to 8 years for distributing methamphetamine. Christopher Carte, of St. Albans, was sentenced to three years in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Holly Doub, of South Charleston, was sentenced to five days in federal prison for aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine.
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Violent Felon Sentenced for Possession of Firearm with Large Capacity MagazineRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to 51 months in prison for possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a felony.
“Toatley is exactly the type of individual who poses a serious danger to the safety of our communities and the law enforcement officers who protect us,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Toatley has a long criminal history which includes aggravated assault for shooting a person, another aggravated assault for forcing a person out of his home at gun-point, drug offenses, and false imprisonment. Along with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we are committed to removing violent individuals like Toatley from our communities.”
According to court documents, police were called to a residence in Richmond by the occupant who said a male was threatening her and her children, the male was on his way to the caller’s home, and the male was known to carry a firearm. When the responding officer arrived, he saw Gerald Toatley, 38, at the door of the residence. Toatley acknowledged a conflict with the resident, but dismissed it as a “misunderstanding.” When the officer asked for identify information, Toatley attempted to flee, but fell to the ground. As the officer tried to assist him, Toatley threw the officer to the ground and ran. During his flight, Toatley hid a 9mm semi-automatic pistol in a barbeque grill in a neighboring yard. Shortly thereafter, the officer arrested Toatley, who resisted being placed in handcuffs. The officer then recovered the firearm, which had Toatley’s DNA on it. The Court enhanced defendant’s sentence because the gun had a large capacity magazine, capable of holding sixteen rounds of ammunition.
“Gun crime is a scourge on our communities and holds good people hostage in their own homes,” said Thomas L. Chittum, III, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) Washington Field Division. “ATF is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to take violent criminals like Gerald Toatley off our streets and put them behind bars where they belong. I hope this serves as a warning to other armed criminals that when they are caught, they will be met with swift, predictable consequences.”
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.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Thomas L. Chittum, III, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge M. Hannah Lauck. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Holli R. Wood and Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen W. Miller prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:18-cr-53.
Victoria Man Imprisoned for Defrauding EmployerRead the Press Release
VICTORIA, Texas – A 48-year-old Victoria man has been ordered to federal prison following his convictions on 10 counts of wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. Murray Wade Carson pleaded guilty July 2, 2018.
Today, Senior U.S. District Judge John Rainey handed Carson a 27-month sentence to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, additional testimony was provided that described how Carson used sophisticated means to cimmit is fraud. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that it was incredible that the crime went on for eight years until an auditor figured it out. “That was the only thing that stopped you,” said Rainey.
At the time of his plea, Carson admitted he devised a scheme to defraud his employer by charging his employer for the purchase non-existent goods and products from the Kirby Taylor Company (KTC). Carson had set up KTC and concealed that information from his employer.
Carson admitted he submitted invoices from KTC for nonexistent goods, which he purchased using his employer issued credit card. He then used his home computer to submit charges for these nonexistent goods.
The scheme lasted from approximately 2007 through June 2015.
Carson was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Braddock is prosecuting the case.
Utah Man Pleads Guilty to Denial-of-Service Computer Hacking AttacksRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – November 6, 2018
SAN DIEGO – Austin Thompson, a Utah resident, pleaded guilty today in federal court in San Diego, admitting that he carried out a series of denial-of-service (“DoS”) computer hacking attacks against multiple victims between 2013 and 2014.
A denial-of-service (DoS) attack occurs when legitimate users are unable to access information systems, devices, or other network resources due to the actions of a malicious cyber threat actor. In such attacks, the hacker floods the targeted host or network with traffic until the target cannot respond or simply crashes, preventing access for legitimate purposes. According to the plea agreement, between December 2013 and January 2014, Thompson’s attacks, which flooded his victims’ servers with enough internet traffic to take them offline, were directed mainly at online gaming companies and servers, including then San Diego-based Sony Online Entertainment. Thompson typically used the Twitter account @DerpTrolling to announce that an attack was imminent and then posted screenshots or other photos showing that victims’ servers had been taken down after the attack. The attacks took down game servers and related computers around the world, often for hours at a time. According to the plea agreement, Thompson’s actions caused at least $95,000 in damages.
“Denial-of-service attacks cost businesses millions of dollars annually,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Braverman. “We are committed to finding and prosecuting those who disrupt businesses, often for nothing more than ego.”
"In today's world, cyber crime is an immense threat that affects private, commercial, and government sectors alike," said FBI Special Agent in Charge John Brown. "The FBI's capacity to respond to cyber incidents is enhanced through collaboration with affected industries and partnerships in the community to prevent and combat these threats. Together, we will thwart those cyber criminals who target our communities' businesses and infrastructure."
Sentencing is set before United States District Judge Jeffrey Miller on March 1, 2019 at 9:00 a.m.
The case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Benjamin Katz and John Parmley, arose out of an investigation by FBI’s San Diego Field Office.
DEFENDANT Case Number 18cr4775JM
Austin Thompson Age: 23
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Damage to a Protected Computer, 18 U.S.C. § 1030(a)(5)(A)
Maximum penalty: 10 years prison, $250,000 fine, 3 years supervised release
AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation – San Diego Field Office
U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations
UK Man Admits Role in Overseas Investment ScamRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that David Cole, 47, of England, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Russell T. Ippolito, Jr. and Paul E. Bonanno, who are handling the case, stated that the defendant participated in a “boiler room” scam that operated in Barcelona, Spain. Members of the conspiracy, working in the Spain boiler room, conned investors in the United Kingdom and Canada into buying nearly worthless shares of restricted stock at severely inflated prices by telling buyers that they were buying more valuable freely traded shares of stock.
Approximately 250 investors lost more than $2,900,000 to the defendant and a number of other conspirators. A portion of the criminal proceeds were funneled through a bank account in Western New York before being sent to numerous overseas accounts controlled by members of the conspiracy. Cole’s role in the conspiracy was convince individuals to invest in worthless stock by making false representations about the nature of the stock.
A total of 11 defendants involved in the boiler room scam have been convicted. Charges are pending against one other defendant. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The pleas are the result of an investigation on the part of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Kevin Kelly, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Buffalo Office, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division, under the direction of James D. Robnett, Special Agent-in-Charge.
Sentencing is scheduled for February 14, 2019, at 11:30 a.m. before Judge Wolford.
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U.S. Attorney Names District Election Officer to Oversee the Handling of Complaints of Election Fraud and Voting Rights AbusesRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced today that Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Segal will serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Eastern District of California in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the November 6, 2018, general election. The DEO is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
Counties in the Eastern District are: Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, El Dorado, Fresno, Glenn, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Lassen, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Modoc, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Solano, Stanislaus, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Tulare, Tuolumne, Yolo, and Yuba.
U.S. Attorney Scott said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted. Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate. It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available immediately to our office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. We will act promptly and aggressively to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on election day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or illiteracy).
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 6, 2018, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, DEO Segal will be on duty in this district while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: (916) 554-2700 and (916) 554-2708, and by email at [email protected].
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day. The FBI can be reached by the public in the Eastern District of California at (916) 746-7000.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington, DC by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to [email protected] or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.
Two Traders Plead Guilty to $60 Million Commodities Fraud and Spoofing ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Two former commodities traders of a New York, New York-based financial services firm have pleaded guilty for their participation in a $60 million commodities fraud and spoofing conspiracy that was perpetrated through the U.S. commodities markets. One of the traders also pleaded guilty for his participation in a second commodities fraud and spoofing conspiracy at another financial services firm based in Chicago, Illinois.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick of the Southern District of Texas and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey S. Sallet of the FBI’s Chicago Field Office made the announcement.
Krishna Mohan, 33, of New York, New York, pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to engage in wire fraud, commodities fraud and spoofing. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 28, 2019 before U.S. District Judge Gray H. Miller of the Southern District of Texas.
Kamaldeep Gandhi, 36, of Chicago, pleaded guilty on Nov. 2 to two counts of conspiracy to engage in wire fraud, commodities fraud and spoofing. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 22, 2019 before U.S. District Judge Ewing Werlein Jr. of the Southern District of Texas.
As part of their pleas, Gandhi and Mohan admitted that, from March 2012 to March 2014, they conspired with Yuchun “Bruce” Mao and others at the first firm (Trading Firm A) to mislead the markets for E-Mini S&P 500 and E‑Mini NASDAQ 100 futures contracts traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) and E-Mini Dow futures contracts traded on the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT). Gandhi and Mohan further admitted that they and their co-conspirators placed thousands of orders that they did not intend to execute, or “spoof orders,” in order to obtain executions of other orders, or “primary orders,” at better prices, quantities and/or times than otherwise possible, to the benefit of the co-conspirators and Trading Firm A. Gandhi and Mohan further admitted that the United States has calculated that the scheme resulted in market losses of over $60 million.
Also, as part of Gandhi’s plea, he further admitted that, from May 2014 through October 2014, while employed at the second firm (Trading Firm B), he conspired with others to mislead the markets for E‑Mini S&P 500 futures contracts traded on the CME by agreeing to place, and himself placing, hundreds of spoof orders for E-Mini S&P 500 futures contracts in order to create the false and misleading appearance of increased supply or demand. Gandhi further admitted that the United States has calculated that the scheme resulted in market losses of over $1.3 million.
The FBI’s Chicago Field Office is investigating the case. Trial Attorneys Mark Cipolletti, Jeffery Le Riche and Matthew Sullivan of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Lewis of the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Division of Enforcement provided substantial assistance in this case and referred this matter to the Department.
Individuals who believe that they may be a victim in these cases should visit the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness website for more information.
Two Traders Plead Guilty to $60 Million Commodities Fraud and Spoofing ConspiracyRead the Press Release
HOUSTON - Two former commodities traders of a New York, New York-based financial services firm have pleaded guilty for their participation in a $60 million commodities fraud and spoofing conspiracy that was perpetrated through the U.S. commodities markets. One of the traders also pleaded guilty for his participation in a second commodities fraud and spoofing conspiracy at another financial services firm based in Chicago, Illinois.
U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick, Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey S. Sallet of the FBI’s Chicago Field Office made the announcement.
Krishna Mohan, 33, of New York, pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to engage in wire fraud, commodities fraud and spoofing. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 28, 2019, before U.S. District Judge Gray H. Miller of the Southern District of Texas (SDTX).
Kamaldeep Gandhi, 36, of Chicago, pleaded guilty Nov. 2 to two counts of conspiracy to engage in wire fraud, commodities fraud and spoofing. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 22, 2019, before U.S. District Judge Ewing Werlein Jr. of the SDTX.
As part of their pleas, Gandhi and Mohan admitted that from March 2012 to March 2014, they conspired with Yuchun “Bruce” Mao and others at the first firm (Trading Firm A) to mislead the markets for E-Mini S&P 500 and E‑Mini NASDAQ 100 futures contracts traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) and E-Mini Dow futures contracts traded on the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT). Gandhi and Mohan further admitted they and their co-conspirators placed thousands of orders that they did not intend to execute, or “spoof orders,” in order to obtain executions of other orders, or “primary orders,” at better prices, quantities and/or times than otherwise possible to the benefit of the co-conspirators and Trading Firm A. Gandhi and Mohan further admitted the United States has calculated that the scheme resulted in market losses of more than $60 million.
Also, as part of Gandhi’s plea, he further admitted that from May 2014 through October 2014, while employed at the second firm (Trading Firm B), he conspired with others to mislead the markets for E‑Mini S&P 500 futures contracts traded on the CME by agreeing to place, and himself placing, hundreds of spoof orders for E-Mini S&P 500 futures contracts in order to create the false and misleading appearance of increased supply or demand. Gandhi further admitted the United States has calculated that the scheme resulted in market losses of more than $1.3 million.
The FBI’s Chicago Field Office is conducting the investigation. SDTX Assistant U.S. Attorney John Lewis and Trial Attorneys Mark Cipolletti, Jeffery Le Riche and Matthew Sullivan of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Division of Enforcement provided substantial assistance and referred this matter to the Department.
Individuals who believe that they may be a victim in these cases should visit the Fraud Section’s Victim Witness website for more information.
Two McNairy County Residents Indicted Federally for Being a Felon in Possession of Firearms and Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
Jackson, TN – A federal grand jury has indicted two McNairy County residents on multiple federal charges. U. S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the indictments today.
According to the information presented in the indictments, on October 15, 2018, Randall Neilsen was charged with two counts of being a convicted felon in possession of firearms transported in interstate commerce, in violation of Title 18, USC,§ 922 (g)(1). The United States also seeks criminal forfeiture of any proceeds related to the crime. Lisa M. Stacey, 38, was indicted on October 15, 2018, with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, USC § 841 (a)(1).
Because of their significant criminal histories, if convicted on counts 1 and 2, Neilsen faces 10 years in federal prison; $250,000 fine and 3 years supervised release. Stacey faces up to 10 years imprisonment; $10,000,000 fine and 5 years supervised release.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "The U.S. Attorney’s Office is a full-service federal prosecution office, and we have the ability and intention to charge any violations of federal law, no matter where they occur in the Western District of Tennessee. These indictments demonstrate our focus on the priority areas of firearms and narcotics cases that impact public safety in our rural communities, and we appreciate the partnerships with our local law enforcement agencies in McNairy County."
These cases are being investigated by the McNairy County Sheriff’s Office; Selmer Police Department; the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jim Powell and Jerry Kitchen are prosecuting these cases on the government’s behalf.
The charges and allegations in the indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Two Leaders in the Black Guerilla Family Gang Plead Guilty to Federal Racketeering Conspiracy Charge, Including Authorizing MurdersRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – Ricky Evans, a/k/a Dorsey, and Shawn Thomas, a/k/a Bucky, both age 38, of Baltimore, Maryland, pleaded guilty on November 5, 2018, to the federal charge of participating in a racketeering conspiracy, as leaders in the Black Guerilla Family (BGF) gang.
The guilty pleas were announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Special Agent in Charge Rob Cekada of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; Interim Commissioner Gary Tuggle of the Baltimore Police Department; and Baltimore City State’s Attorney Marilyn J. Mosby.
According to their plea agreements, from prior to 2010 through February 22, 2018, Evans and Thomas were employed by and associated with the BGF gang. BGF is a nationwide gang operating in prisons and in cities throughout the United States, including in Baltimore. BGF is involved in criminal activity including murder, robbery, extortion, drug trafficking, obstruction of justice, and witness intimidation.
BGF organizes its members into “regimes” or “bubbles” corresponding to particular regions or neighborhoods in Baltimore City and other Maryland communities. Each bubble reports to a bush member or bushman, who controls larger swaths of territory on behalf of BGF. Bush members are elder statesman of BGF and maintain inter-bubble discipline and settle disputes among the various bubbles operating in the territory the bush member controls.
Evans and Thomas admitted that they were high-ranking members of BGF, controlling regimes in East Baltimore and the 2700 block of Greenmount Avenue, respectively. During the course of the conspiracy, Evans and Thomas obtained narcotics, including crack cocaine, which they distributed through BGF-controlled open-air drug shops in their territories.
As detailed in Evans’ plea agreement, Evans operated a murder-for-hire scheme during the time of the conspiracy, accepting payments to have violence committed against individuals, then taking other BGF members to commit those acts. In 2010, Evans authorized BGF members to kidnap, extort and/or rob Marcal Walton. During the kidnapping, BGF members shot and killed Walton as he tried to flee from his kidnappers. In that same year, Evans authorized the murder of Darel Alston, a BGF member, for his alleged cooperation with law enforcement regarding the botched kidnapping of Marcal Walton. Evans further admitted that during the period of the conspiracy, he was an employee of Safe Streets, a Baltimore-based anti-violence initiative. Evans worked at the Safe Streets office in the 2300 block of Monument Street in East Baltimore, and used that Safe Streets office to hold BGF meetings, to store and distribute drugs, and to store, and allow to be stored firearms used in other crimes. Evans admitted that he also possessed firearms for his protection and the protection of the enterprise, including a stolen and loaded .223-caliber Bushmaster model which he possessed on March 16, 2016.
As detailed in Thomas’ plea agreement, Thomas collected gang dues for BGF. On December 9, 2016, Thomas ordered another BGF member to murder Keith Ramsey, a Bloods gang member, as part of an ongoing dispute between the two gangs.
Evans and Thomas each face a maximum of life in prison for the racketeering conspiracy. Chief U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar has scheduled sentencing for February 5, 2019 at 10 a.m. for Evans and February 22, 2019 for Thomas.
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.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the ATF, FBI, Baltimore Police Department, and the Office of the State’s Attorney for Baltimore City for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys James T. Wallner and Clinton J. Fuchs, who are prosecuting this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force case.Two Attorneys Plead Guilty on Eve of Tax Fraud TrialRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney William M. McSwain announced today that attorneys Edward Millstein and Susan Halpern, both of Philadelphia, pled guilty to tax offenses. Millstein and Halpern, who are married, were scheduled to begin trial on Monday, November 5, 2018, before U.S. District Court Judge Cynthia M. Rufe.
Millstein pled guilty to tax evasion, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7201. Millstein and Halpern owed $444,225 in taxes for the calendar years 2007 through 2011. While the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) was attempting to collect that debt, Millstein hid money in his minor children’s bank accounts to avoid IRS levies. Millstein also lied about obtaining a loan to pay the debt, and he failed to disclose a bank account that he used to deposit the $300,000 annual salary he earned from a local law firm from 2013 through 2015.
Halpern pled guilty to two counts of failure to pay taxes, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7203. Millstein and Halpern filed their taxes as a married couple filing jointly. They reported an Adjusted Gross Income of $344,350 in 2010 and $394,030 in 2011. The couple paid no money towards their 2010 or 2011 tax debt. By the time the couple was indicted on April 11, 2017, they owed $143,473.35 in taxes for 2010 and $153,560.69 in taxes for 2011. At trial, the government was prepared to present testimony that Halpern had spent tens of thousands of dollars on clothing, cosmetics, jewelry, salons, private clubs, and trips abroad, but not a penny on the 2010 or 2011 tax debt.
“These defendants intentionally failed to pay taxes, instead choosing to hide their money and spend it on luxuries that they could not afford,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “The defendants are both attorneys—they know better. Instead of being law-abiding citizens, they chose to deliberately cheat the system and bankroll their lavish lifestyle. This Office will continue to hold tax cheats accountable for their crimes.”
“The prosecution of individuals who intentionally conceal income and evade taxes is a vital element of the IRS' enforcement strategy,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Guy Ficco. "Rest assured that we will continue to protect the integrity of the tax system by ensuring that everyone pays their fair share of taxes."
Millstein faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, a $100,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
Halpern faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison, 1 year of supervised release, a $100,000 fine, and $100 special assessment.
Millstein and Halpern will be sentenced on February 25, 2019.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Unit. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jason P. Bologna.
Time Is up for A Detroit Man Arrested in Connection with Robbery of Rolex Watches During Amherst Jewelry Store HeistRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Davonta Hill, 23, of Detroit, MI, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery and Hobbs Act robbery. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on February 2, 2018, at approximately 6:35 p.m., the Reeds-Jenss Jewelry Store, located at 4001 Maple Road in Amherst, NY, was robbed by four males wearing hooded sweatshirts to hide their identities, while a fifth individual waited outside by a vehicle. Three of the males walked directly to the display case containing Rolex watches, while the fourth male placed a block of ice in the automatic doorway to ensure it stayed open. When the ice failed to do so, the fourth male stayed in the doorway holding the door open. Two of the males smashed the glass and removed multiple Rolex watches. The four males exited the store and returned to the waiting vehicle.
The value of the stolen watches totaled approximately $400,000 in retail costs. In addition, $100,000 worth in watches were damaged during the breaking of the case. During the investigation following the robbery, Amherst police recovered one of the hammers used during the robbery. Detectives also recovered high quality surveillance footage during the time of the robbery. The footage showed that one of the suspects was wearing brightly colored orange sneakers and a distinctive brand jacket at the time of the robbery.
On February 14, 2018, the Strongsville, Ohio Police Department (SPD) responded to a call from Sheiban's Jewelers regarding a suspicious situation. Employees reported that two black males wearing gloves entered the store with the hoods of their hooded sweatshirts over their faces. The two males remained for a few minutes and exited the store without making a purchase. The males were seen getting into a tan SUV. A short time later, officers attempted a vehicle and traffic stop with their emergency lights activated but the tan SUV failed to stop and attempted to elude officers at high speeds. During the pursuit, the tan SUV struck four civilian vehicles and three marked SPD cruisers. The tan SUV was eventually stopped and the driver and passenger were taken into custody. The driver was identified as Davonta Hill.
Following the defendant’s arrest, Strongsville Police contacted Amherst Police believing that the two robberies were connected. SPD officers reviewed photographs of the Amherst robbery suspects and indicated that Hill bore a strong resemblance to one of the Amherst suspects. SPD detectives executed a search warrant on the tan SUV and recovered a two hammers; a gym bag containing an orange pair of sneakers; and a locked box. Inside the box were two loaded firearms; a quantity of marijuana; and the title for the tan SUV in the name of Davonta Hill.
The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by the Amherst Police Department, under the direction of Chief John Askey; the Strongsville, Ohio Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Fender; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Gary Loeffert.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Three Western Slope Defendants Sentenced for Various Roles in Methamphetamine and Cocaine Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
DENVER – Three defendants have been sentenced to serve prison sentences for their respective roles in the distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine, U.S. Attorney Jason R. Dunn and DEA Denver Division Special Agent in Charge William T. McDermott announced. Two remaining defendants have a sentencing hearing pending in January 2019.
Colorado Chief U.S. District Court Judge Marcia S. Krieger, sitting in Grand Junction on November 5, 2018 and November 6, 2018, sentenced
Marco Valdez to serve 120 months in federal prison;
Rigoberto Felix to serve 48 months in federal prison; and,
David Sosa to serve 60 months in federal prison.
According to court documents, in April 2016, the Glenwood Springs branch of the DEA began investigating instances of drug trafficking occurring in Garfield and Mesa Counties. This investigation involved surveillance of targets, controlled purchases of methamphetamine, and wiretaps. The investigation ultimately revealed that the three individuals sentenced this week were part of a larger drug trafficking organization run by Paul Hernandez Contreras – a source of supply of methamphetamine and cocaine from California, and Daniel Tapia-Morales -- a drug distributor who had his own customer base in Colorado. The cases against Contreras and Tapia-Morales are pending.
In addition to drug trafficking, some individuals in this investigation would trade firearms for narcotics. Ultimately, over 3 kilograms of methamphetamine and ½ kilogram of cocaine were seized, as well as firearms and thousands of dollars. The investigation resulted in the indictment of ten individuals, including those mentioned above.
This case was investigated by the DEA Denver Division and TRIDENT, including agents in Mesa and Garfield Counties. TRIDENT is a multi-jurisdictional drug task force funded through Federal, State and Local government funding sources. The defendants were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Celeste Rangel.
Three Indian Nationals Indicted for Extortion and Wire Fraud Relating to IRS Impersonation ScamsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Nishitkumar Patel (31, Tampa), Hemalkumar Shah (27, Tampa), and Sharvil Patel (22, Tampa) with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and extortion, and substantive counts of wire fraud and extortion. The indictment also charges Nishitkumar Patel and Hemalkumar Patel with money laundering and aggravated identity theft. Each of the three defendants faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count of wire fraud conspiracy, extortion conspiracy, wire fraud, and extortion. Nishitkumar Patel and Hemalkumar Patel face an additional penalty of up to 10 years in federal prison for money laundering, and a minimum mandatory consecutive two years in prison for aggravated identity theft. The indictment also notifies the defendants that the United States is seeking a money judgment in the amount of at least $2.27 million, the proceeds of the wire fraud and extortion conspiracies.
According to the
indictment , from 2014 through at least 2016, the defendants conspired with India-based call centers to extort money from U.S. residents by impersonating IRS officers. The defendants misled their victims to believe that they owed money to the IRS and would be arrested and fined if they did not pay their alleged back taxes immediately, so the victims would pay the defendants. The defendants collected the fraud proceeds by (1) withdrawing cash from prepaid cards purchased and funded by victims; (2) hiring other conspirators (runners) to retrieve money wired by the victims to those runners; and/or (3) hiring runners to open bank accounts into which victims deposited fraud proceeds.In order to collect the fraud proceeds, the defendants provided the runners with the victims’ names, locations, and amount paid. The defendants directed the runners to retrieve the fraud proceeds in cash, and remit it to the defendants, often less a payment to the runner for opening the account or conducting the transaction.
On October 23, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the home of Nishitkumar Patel and Hemalkumar Patel. Among other items, they seized approximately $50,000 in cash, hundreds of bank and wire transfer receipts, and 20 electronic devices.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel K. Jones.
Three Felons with Guns Are Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Murray announced today that three felons convicted of illegally possessing firearms have been sentenced to prison, as part of the Western District’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) strategy to remove guns from the hands of prohibited persons and reduce gun-related violence.
U.S. District Judge Max O. Cogburn, Jr. sentenced Louie Raymond Forney, 27, of Charlotte, to 40 months in prison, for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony. According to court records, on or about December 22, 2015, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop of the vehicle Forney was driving. Forney did not stop the vehicle and instead sped away. After crashing the vehicle, Forney jumped out of the car window, dropped a Smith and Wesson, Shield .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol on the ground, and fled on foot. At the time of the incident, Forney had prior felony convictions and was prohibited from possessing a firearm. In addition to the prison term imposed, Judge Cogburn also ordered Forney to serve two years under court supervision after he is released from prison.
Judge Cogburn also sentenced Damarius Derron Massey, 38, of Charlotte, to 33 months in prison and two years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Court records show that on June 16, 2017, over the course of a traffic stop, CMPD officers found Massey to be in possession of a stolen and loaded Taurus PT AFS .40 caliber pistol. Massey was previously convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery and Attempted Trafficking in Cocaine and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
On Monday, Judge Cogburn ordered Joseph Gerell Banks, 27, of Charlotte, to serve 46 months in prison and two years of supervised release for illegally possessing a firearm. According to court records, on April 8, 2017, Banks possessed a Glock, model 36, .45 caliber pistol and a .45 shell casing. Banks was previously convicted of a crime punishable by more than one year in prison and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
“With each gun prosecution, an illegal firearm has been taken off our streets and, in all likelihood, multiple gun-related crimes have been prevented,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “My priority as U.S. Attorney is to reduce gun violence across the Western District, and to hold accountable those who carry guns illegally and violate federal gun laws. Guns do not belong in the hands of felons,” Murray added.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Murray thanked the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department for their investigation of each case, and commended Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sanjeev Bhasker for handling the prosecution of Louie Forney; William T. Bozin for handling the prosecution of Damarius Massey; and Erik Lindahl for handling the prosecution of Joseph Banks.
These cases 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.
Three Defendants Charged in Two Separate Cases with Attempting to Smuggle Marijuana into the United StatesRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Cindy Huang, 23, of Brooklyn, NY, Charles Shu, 25, of Buffalo, NY, and Isaac Danso Ofori, 26, of Columbus, OH, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession and importation of a controlled substance, and smuggling goods into the United States. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Astorga, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on November 4, 2018, defendant Huang and Chu attempted to enter the United States from Canada at the Lewiston Bridge Port of Entry. They were passengers in a vehicle that included five other individuals. During the primary inspection of the vehicle, a Customs and Border Protection officer discovered two edible packages with a red marijuana leaf marking in the trunk area of the vehicle. The vehicle was then referred for a secondary inspection during which a canine dog alerted officers to the glove compartment area. A search of the glove compartment resulted in the discovery of a plastic bag containing marijuana.In a separate case, also on November 4, 2018, Ofori attempted to enter the United States from Canada at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry. Ofori was one of three occupants in a vehicle that was referred to secondary inspection. Prior to the secondary inspection, Ofori stated that he did not have any drugs, weapons, or prohibited items. During the secondary inspection, a Customs and Border Protection officer found a plastic baggie inside of a light brown colored book bag in the rear of the vehicle containing a green leafy substance. The defendant stated that he purchased the green leafy substance at a shop called "Market Dispensary," in Toronto. The green leafy substance tested positive for marijuana.
“Since recreational marijuana was legalized in Canada on October 17th, we have experienced a significant increase in the number of people apprehended at the border importing marijuana into the United States,” noted U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “Let there be no misunderstanding—it was, is, and will continue to be a federal crime to attempt to bring any quantity of marijuana into the United States from Canada. People must realize that the enduring hardship that they will suffer as the result of a federal criminal conviction will far outlast any high they may be seeking to experience through the ingestion of the marijuana they are illegally importing.”
Huang, Chu, and Ofori made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder and were released.
The criminal complaint is the culmination of an investigation by Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kelly.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Thibodeaux Woman Charged Stealing More Than Half a Million Dollars from Metairie ArchitectRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced the indictment of CHRISTELLE SCHMIDT on Friday, November 2, 2018, age 65 of Thibodeaux, Louisiana for one count of violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(b), Bank larceny. The indictment alleged that SCHMIDT stole more than $550,000 from a local architectural firm while employed therein as a bookkeeper.
The indictment alleged that starting in 2007 and continuing through 2017, through a series of fraudulent activities, SCHMIDT committed the offense. The indictment further alleged that she utilized three different schemes to purloin the funds, which were in the care, custody and control of federally insured banks.
The first scheme involved her forgery of more than 600 checks and then disguising those thefts by falsely disguising the checks in the computer accounting records of the firm as funds spent for legitimate vendors. In fact, the money was used for SCHMIDT’S personal expenses. The indictment further alleged that her second scheme involved charging personal expenses on company credit cards. The third scheme involved SCHMIDT’S payment of the credit cards using the automated clearing house (ACH) accounts of the firm.
If convicted, SCHMIDT faces up to 10 years incarceration, a $250,000 fine and restitution and 3 years supervised release. U.S. Attorney Strasser emphasized that an indictment is merely a charge and that to prevail at trial, the government must prove each and every offense alleged beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating the matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice Jr.
Texas Man Who Traveled to Tampa to Have Sex with 12-Year-Old Girl Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia Hernandez Covington today sentenced Benjamin Michael Tschirhart (35, Dallas, TX) to 11 years in federal prison and a lifetime of supervised release for attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity.
Tschirhart had pleaded guilty on August 1, 2018.
According to court documents, Tschirhart, using the internet alias “jabberwockysuperfly,” contacted an undercover agent who was posing as a woman that was looking for a man to train her notional 12-year old daughter for sex. Over the course of one month, Tschirhart discussed his sexual desires and preferences for children and made plans to train and groom the “child” for sex.
Toward the end of April 2018, Tschirhart and the undercover agent made plans for Tschirhart to travel to Tampa to have sex with the “child.” On April 30, 2018, Tschirhart disembarked an Amtrak train in Tampa. The next day, Tschirhart arrived at the agreed upon location at the agreed upon time, where he was arrested. He had in his possession condoms and lubrication, as well as Skittles and Airheads—the “child’s” favorite candy.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Murray.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Texas Man Sentenced in Cocaine Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
WICHITA, KAN. – A Texas man was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for driving a load of cocaine to Kansas, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.
Ricardo Daniel Ruiz, 20, El Paso, Texas, pleaded guilty to one count of interstate travel in furtherance of drug trafficking. In his plea, he admitted that a police officer in Elkhart stopped him for speeding. A search of the vehicle turned up 6.8 kilos (about 15 pounds) of cocaine wrapped in six bundles and hidden beneath the back seat.
McAllister commended the Elkhart Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger for their work on the case.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing 650 Firearms from UPS Trailers in SpringfieldRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Glenn Heights, Texas, man pleaded guilty in federal court today to stealing 650 firearms from United Parcel Service trailers in Springfield, Mo., en route to Bass Pro Shops.
Quinton Haywood, 27, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to the charges contained in a Feb. 21, 2018, federal indictment. Haywood has remained in federal custody since his arrest in January 2018.
By pleading guilty today, Haywood admitted that he aided and abetted other individuals to steal firearms that were being shipped across state lines, from Beretta USA in Maryland to the state of Missouri. Haywood also pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting other individuals to possess stolen firearms.
According to an affidavit filed in support of the original federal criminal complaint, Haywood and others stole 650 firearms, along with other cargo, from United Parcel Service (UPS) trailers in Springfield in October 2017.
The firearms were in the process of being shipped from Beretta Firearms in Maryland to Bass Pro Shops in Springfield. The trailers in which the firearms were shipped had been parked in the UPS freight lot in a configuration to prevent access to the trailer doors, by being parked back-to-back, with the roll-up doors facing each other. The trailers were then blocked by longer trailers, which should have acted as a preventative measure from someone backing a truck-tractor to the trailer and pulling it forward.
Sometime between noon on Oct. 28, 2017, and 8:30 a.m. on Oct. 29, 2017, thieves hot-wired two truck-tractors and used them to push and pull various trailers around the lot, allowing the thieves access to the trailer doors. Thieves stole 600 Beretta .380-caliber handguns and 54 Beretta 12-gauge shotguns, as well as an entire pallet of Justin brand boots, numerous power tools and 12 cases of soda. UPS employees discovered the theft on Oct. 29, 2017, and notified law enforcement.
Under federal statutes, Haywood is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Theft of Government Funds, Identity FraudRead the Press Release
St. Louis, MO – Omar Jaber, 31, of St. John, Missouri was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment to be followed by three years supervised release and $197,213 in restitution to the IRS. Jaber admitted to stealing government funds while a tax preparer for Rapid Tax Service in St. Louis during 2015 and 2016. Jaber pleaded guilty on May 7, 2018 and appeared for sentencing in St. Louis today before U.S. District Judge Catherine D. Perry.
In his plea, Jaber admitted to stealing the personal identification of forty-two different individuals, filing false tax returns in their names and converting some or all of their purported tax refunds to his own use.
At sentencing, the government pointed out that while the U.S. Treasury is the ultimate victim of Jaber’s malfeasance, many of the individual victims depending on refunds due to the Earned Income Tax Credit. The delay in their receipt of tax refunds was a significant economic hardship to taxpayers who depend on the EITC to supplement their wages.
“Today’s sentence highlights the seriousness of the defendant’s conduct,” said Karl Stiften, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation, St. Louis Field Office. “Today, Mr. Jaber is being held accountable for his criminal activity.”
“Vigorous prosecution and substantial sentences in cases of tax fraud, especially those involving tax preparers, is essential to our nation’s voluntary tax compliance system,” said U.S. Attorney Jeff Jensen.
This case was investigated by the IRS – Criminal Investigation Bureau. Assistant United States Attorney Tom Albus is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Tampa Man Sentenced to Twenty-Seven Months’ Imprisonment for Lying to Avoid RestitutionRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia Hernandez Covington has sentenced Jason Anthony Martinez (38, Tampa) to an additional three months’ imprisonment for a total of 27 months’ imprisonment for lying to the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Financial Litigation Unit and U.S. Probation to avoid his restitution obligation. In addition, he was sentenced to an additional two years of supervised release, extending his post-incarceration supervision to a total of five years.
According to the plea agreement, Martinez was previously convicted in a mortgage-related fraud case and ordered to pay $3,008,551.01 in restitution. On October 24, 2017, Martinez signed and submitted a Financial Disclosure Form, upon which he falsely claimed a net income that was approximately half his actual net income and failed to disclose a number of credit accounts. This false information materially and adversely affected the resulting restitution-related payment calculations in his prior case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, recognizing the critical importance of recovering restitution for victims, has a Financial Litigation Unit that collects criminal monetary penalties, including restitution, imposed on criminal defendants by the U.S. District Court as part of his or her sentence. One of the tools used by the Unit to collect restitution is the Financial Disclosure Statement, which requires defendants to truthfully disclose, among other things, their income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Economic Crimes Section. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas N. Palermo.
Steroid Distribution Results in Four ConvictionsRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY – Four defendants have entered guilty pleas to charges stemming from a steroid-distribution ring, announced Robert J. Troester of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Between October 3 and November 2, CHRISTOPHER THOMAS CAPLINGER, 55, of Edmond, Oklahoma; DONALD RAY VINCENT, JR., 54, of Edmond; DEBORAH ANN CRAWFORD, 47, of Oklahoma City; and MICHAEL BRANDON SCHOTT, 35, of Newport News, Virginia, have been found guilty of a steroid offense or conspiring to launder the proceeds of that offense, announced Robert J. Troester of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Caplinger and Vincent have pleaded guilty to both manufacturing steroids and money laundering.
On March 20, 2018, a federal grand jury returned a 23-count indictment against all four defendants. In addition to allegations of illegally conspiring to distribute steroids, a Schedule III controlled substance, the indictment charged distribution of steroids to an undercover officer, manufacturing of steroids, maintaining a drug-involved premises, a conspiracy to commit money laundering, and international money laundering. According to the indictment, Capinger, Vincent, and Crawford concealed the proceeds of their illegal activity by depositing money into bank accounts in the names of third parties and storing bulk cash at residences, including approximately $280,000 buried in Caplinger’s back yard. The indictment alleged that from April 2015 until November 2017, Caplinger rented space at 8201 North Classen Boulevard in Oklahoma City for the purpose of manufacturing and distributing steroids. It also alleged that Caplinger and Crawford transferred funds to China to conceal their crimes.
On November 1, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk accepted Caplinger’s pleas of guilty to manufacturing anabolic steroids and conspiring to launder the proceeds. Caplinger has agreed that his conduct involved at least 60,000 doses of anabolic steroids. He has also agreed to the forfeiture of $287,743 in currency and a $740,000 money judgment. At sentencing, he faces up to ten years in prison for manufacturing steroids and up to twenty years for conspiring to commit money laundering. He could also be fined up to $500,000 on each count and could be on supervised release for the rest of his life.
The remaining three defendants have also pleaded guilty. On October 3, Vincent admitted in open court that he manufactured anabolic steroids and conspired to commit money laundering. He has agreed to forfeit $99,473 in currency. Crawford entered a guilty plea to the money-laundering conspiracy on October 24. And Schott pleaded guilty on November 2 to conspiring to distribute anabolic steroids. Like Caplinger, each of these defendants faces up to ten years in prison for a steroid offense and up to twenty years in prison for a money-laundering offense. Each also faces a fine of up to $500,000 on each count of conviction, in addition to supervised release. Sentencings will take place in approximately ninety days.
These convictions are the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, the Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Eaton, Kerry Blackburn, and David McCrary are prosecuting the case.
Reference is made to public filings for further information.
Statement of U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman on the Conviction of Akayed Ullah for Detonation of A Bomb in New York CityRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: “Late last year, Akayed Ullah detonated a bomb during the bustle of morning rush hour under the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Ullah’s sinister purpose was to harm and terrorize as many innocent people in his path as possible, by using deadly violence to make a political statement. Ullah’s conviction by a unanimous jury of New Yorkers falls on an Election Day, which fittingly underscores the core principles of American democracy and spirit: Americans engage in the political process through votes, not violence. Today, Ullah stands convicted, he faces a potential life sentence, and his purpose failed. New York City remains a shining symbol of freedom and hope.”
Springfield Man Charged with Illegally Possessing Loaded Gun in HartfordRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that a grand jury sitting in Hartford returned an indictment today charging WILLIAM SCOTT, 39, of Springfield, Massachusetts, with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.
The indictment alleges that, on July 2, 2018, Scott unlawfully possessed a loaded Smith and Wesson .380 caliber pistol in Hartford.
It is further alleged that Scott’s criminal history includes felony convictions in Massachusetts in 2003 and 2012 for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and, in 2012, for unlawful possession of a firearm.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
If convicted of the offense, Scott faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000.
Scott has been detained in state custody since his arrest on July 2, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Hartford Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson.
This prosecution has been brought through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Possession of an Unregistered FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm was sentenced on November 5, 2018, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Christopher Romero, age 42, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Romero was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 9, 2018. He pled guilty on August 14, 2018.
The conviction stems from an incident on or about March 14, 2017, when the Sioux Falls Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle, in which Romero was a passenger. A search of the vehicle occurred and law enforcement found a Mossberg Maverick Model 88, .12-gauge caliber pump-action shotgun, bearing no visible serial number, with a barrel less than 18 inches long.
A search was conducted in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, and no evidence of Romero’s registration of the shotgun was found.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Nash prosecuted the case.
Romero was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Shrewsbury Woman Arrested for Securities Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
CONCORD - Jessica M. Teixeira, 41, of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, was arrested and appeared in federal court today on charges of securities fraud and money laundering, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced.
According to the indictment returned on October 31, 2018, between December 2015 and November 2017, defendant Teixeira defrauded two New Hampshire investors by selling them a series of securities that were supposedly guaranteed and would generate high rates of return. According to the indictment, Teixeira represented herself as a solicitor of high-yield investment funds with connections to investment groups raising funds associated with domestic and foreign real estate developments, who solicited financing through private investors rather than banks. In fact, the indictment alleges that Teixeira's claims to be connected to high-level investment groups were false, the investment contracts and notes she sold were worthless and generated no returns, and Teixeira would simply convert the invested funds to her own personal use and benefit, without returning any of the invested funds. In total, the defendant allegedly obtained approximately $296,250 from the two investors.
The Court scheduled a trial in Teixeira’s case for December 11, 2018.
“Even as we work to combat opioid trafficking and violent crime, federal law enforcement officers strive diligently to identify and prosecute those involved in fraud schemes here in New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.
“Today’s arrest serves as a reminder that white-collar criminals often lurk behind overly aggressive high rate-of-return promises,” said Special Agent in Charge Kristina O’Connell, with IRS Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office. “IRS-CI is proud to bring our financial expertise to these joint investigations to help catch perpetrators and prevent future victims of high-yield investment schemes.”
"This investigation is another example of the FBI’s efforts to protect the integrity and transparency of the financial markets. Working with our law enforcement partners, we will pursue those who are motivated by greed and personal enrichment by defrauding investors, destroying the financial security of hard-working individuals within our communities,” said Harold H. Shaw, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Davis and Anna Dronzek.
The charges and allegations contained in an indictment are merely accusations. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Shreveport man pleads guilty to stealing $27,000 in Social Security benefits meant for his childrenRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced that a Shreveport man pleaded guilty Monday to stealing at least $27,000 of his children’s Social Security benefits.
Dianglo Shawntale Mahoney, 51, of Shreveport, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. to one count of theft of government property. According to the guilty plea, Mahoney applied for and began receiving Social Security Administration (SSA) disability payments starting in July of 2013. Mahoney also applied for and began receiving auxiliary benefits for his two minor children. The SSA paid Mahoney at least $27,000 for the benefit of his children. Mahoney never gave the children the money, but he kept the money and used it for his himself.
Mahoney faces 10 years in prison, not more than three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. The court set the sentencing date for February 7, 2019.
The Social Security Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike O’Mara is prosecuting the case.
Schenectady Man Pleads Guilty to Crack Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Lance Green, age 37, of Schenectady, New York, pled guilty yesterday to conspiring to distribute crack cocaine.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and James N. Hendricks, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As part of his plea, Green admitted that between December 2015 and May 2016, he was a member of a drug trafficking organization that conspired to distribute at least 28 grams of crack cocaine in Schenectady.
Green faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison, and at least 8 years of post-imprisonment supervised release, when United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino sentences him on March 5, 2019.
A co-conspirator, Ray A. Perkins, age 31, of Schenectady, pled guilty and was sentenced to 60 months in prison on July 11, 2017.
This case was investigated by the FBI and its Capital District Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes FBI Special Agents and members of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, including the Schenectady Police Department and Schenectady County District Attorney’s Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan Kistler and Michael Barnett.
San Jose Resident Sentenced to 80 Months in Prison for Being A Felon in Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
SAN JOSE – Josue Rocha-Vallejo was sentenced today to 80 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, announced United States Attorney Alex G. Tse and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge John F. Bennett. The sentence was handed down by the Honorable Edward J. Davila, United States District Judge.
Rocha-Vallejo, 27, of San Jose, Calif., pleaded guilty to the charge on November 30, 2017. In pleading guilty, Rocha-Vallejo admitted that he possessed firearms and that he was a convicted felon not legally permitted to possess the firearms.
In sentencing Rocha-Vallejo, Judge Davila found that the defendant possessed seven firearms, including two semi-automatic rifles, and a high capacity magazine—the magazine allowed the firearm to fire more than 15 bullets before having to be reloaded. In addition, Judge Davila found that defendant was in possession of a gun that had been reported stolen.
On May 18, 2017, a federal grand jury indicted Rocha-Vallejo, charging him with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). Rocha-Vallejo pleaded guilty to the charge.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Davila sentenced the defendant to a three-year period of supervised release. The defendant will begin serving the sentence immediately.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI Safe Streets Task Force with assistance from the San Jose Police Department and the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office.
Roslindale Man Sentenced for Cocaine TraffickingRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Roslindale man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his role in a cocaine distribution operation on the South Shore.
Roberto Fonseca-Rivera, 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to one year and one day in prison and three years of supervised release. On Sept. 11, 2017, Fonseca-Rivera pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute cocaine
From January 2015 through July 18, 2016, Fonseca-Rivera and four co-defendants, Angel Morales, of Stoughton; Pablo Santiago-Cruz, of Roslindale; Carlos Reyes, of Framingham; and Jorge Montalvo, of Roxbury, received in the mail more than 30 suspicious packages believed to be cocaine. The packages were sent from Puerto Rico to various addresses in Canton, Stoughton, Quincy, and Framingham, where Fonseca-Rivera and Montalvo retrieved the packages for Morales and Montalvo, and Reyes retrieved the packages for Santiago-Cruz.
On July 18, 2018, a law enforcement officer stopped a vehicle driven by Reyes and seized a kilogram of cocaine that was hidden inside a toy oven that was in the trunk of Reyes’ vehicle. The next day, agents executed a search warrant at Santiago-Cruz’s apartment in Roslindale. Upon hearing the agents knock and announce their presence, Santiago-Cruz attempted to flush approximately 93 grams of cocaine down the toilet. When agents attempted to subdue Santiago-Cruz, he physically resisted and struck several of the officers.
Agents also executed a search warrant at Morales’ apartment in Stoughton and seized approximately $11,000 in cash, more than 100 grams of cocaine, a firearm with an obliterated serial number, and two magazines containing 15 rounds of ammunition each, a box containing an additional 10 rounds of ammunition, and various drug trafficking paraphernalia.
All five defendants have been convicted as part of the investigation. Morales was sentenced on Sept. 17, 2017, to eight years in prison. Montalvo pleaded guilty on Oct. 26, 2018, and is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 24, 2019. Pablo Santiago-Cruz, pleaded guilty on Sept. 25, 2018, and is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 14, 2019. Carlos Reyes, was convicted by a federal jury on Oc. 2, 2018, and is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 8, 2019.
United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph W. Cronin, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Colonel Kerry Gilpin, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Norfolk County District Attorney Michael W. Morrissey; and Stoughton Police Chief Donna McNamara made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James E. Arnold and Craig E. Estes of Lelling’s Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Rochester Man Sentenced for Escaping from Federal CustodyRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Abdul Rasheed, 36, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted after a jury trial of escaping from federal custody, was sentenced to 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Rossi, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that on March 27, 2016, the defendant, following a federal felony conviction in the Western District of New York, was sentenced to 12 months in prison. Rasheed served his prison sentence at United States Penitentiary Lee, located in Jonesville, Virginia. Near the end of his prison term, the defendant was offered the opportunity to complete the incarceration portion of his sentence at the Volunteers of America Residential Reentry Center, commonly referred to as a “halfway house,” located at 175 Ward Street in Rochester. After being released from USP Lee, Rasheed absconded and never appeared at the Volunteers of America. The defendant remained at large until he was arrested on October 29, 2016, in Pittsburgh, PA.
Following his escape but prior to his apprehension, Rasheed shot two individuals, killing one, during an attempted robbery. The defendant pleaded guilty to homicide in Allegheny County, PA, and was sentenced to serve 23 to 46 years in Pennsylvania State Prison. Rasheed will serve his federal sentence following the conclusion of his state sentenced in Pennsylvania.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the United States Marshals Service in Rochester, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina, and the United States Bureau of Prisons, USP Lee.
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Record Breaking 29,992 Pounds of Prescription Drugs Collected in North Carolina During 16th National Take-Back DayRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray announced today that 29,992 pounds of unwanted, unused or expired medications were collected across North Carolina during the 16th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, which was held on Saturday, October 27, 2018. This is the highest total collected in North Carolina since the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began the take-back initiative in 2010.
“The record number of prescription medications collected in North Carolina underscores the importance of the take-back campaign, as an opportunity to safely get rid of dangerous prescription drugs, and to raise awareness about their link to drug addiction and overdose deaths. We all need to do our part to stem the tide of prescription drug abuse in our communities, and clearing our homes of leftover prescription medicines for safe disposal is an important first step,” said U.S. Attorney Murray.
During the semiannual collection event, the DEA and state, local and tribal law enforcement partners collected nearly 11 million pounds of unused pills nationwide. This brings the total amount of prescription drugs collected by DEA since the fall of 2010 to 10,878,950 pounds, or 5439.5 tons.
Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Atlanta Field Division, which oversees the Carolinas, said, “DEA’s 16th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day was a success locally and nationally. I would like to thank the multitude of partners, both law enforcement and non-law enforcement, who worked tirelessly to make this event another great success.”
Since the DEA launched the biannual take-back events, permanent prescription drug collection boxes have been installed by law enforcement agencies, pharmacies, and others throughout North Carolina, for convenient and safe drug disposal. The DEA’s next official Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is April 27, 2019. For the complete results of this year’s fall collection event please visit: https://takebackday.dea.gov/#initiative-results.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the DEA encourage parents, along with their children, to educate themselves about the dangers of legal and illegal drugs by visiting the DEA’s interactive websites at https://www.justthinktwice.gov, https://www.getsmartaboutdrugs.gov and http://www.dea.org.
Providence Woman Detained on Fentanyl Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE - A Providence woman has been ordered detained in federal custody by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Lincoln D. Almond after federal agents seized from her home nearly 200 grams of fentanyl and nearly 2 kilograms of a substance consistent in appearance with heroin.
Marleni Difo, 26, was ordered detained on a federal criminal complaint charging her with possession with the intent to distribute and distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch and Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New England Field Division Brian D. Boyle.
On Friday, DEA and Rhode Island DEA Drug Task Force agents executed a court-authorized search of Difo’s residence, and sized nearly 200 grams of fentanyl, cutting agents, four digital scales, gloves and masks, and other items used in the packaging and distribution of fentanyl and fentanyl-laced products.
Additionally, agents seized nearly 2 kilograms of a brown material consistent in appearance with heroin. DEA safety protocols encourage agents not to handle materials found in close proximity to fentanyl. Consequently, the brown material has not been field-tested. Analysis of that material will be conducted by DEA's forensic laboratory.
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 case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Milind M. Shah and Paul F. Daly, Jr.
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Project Safe Neighborhoods Case Results in Tulsa Man Pleading Guilty to Six Armed Robberies of Local BusinessesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Trent Shores announced that Treveon Montrell Vaughn, 27, of Tulsa, pleaded guilty today to obstructing commerce by robbery and to brandishing a firearm during six different robberies at local donut and Dollar General stores.
Vaughn committed the armed robberies between June 24, 2018, and August 17, 2018, and at one point committed three robberies in one day. In each of the robberies, Vaughn wore a mask and brandished a firearm, threatening store employees and stealing cash from registers. Vaughn’s crime spree ended when Tulsa police officers were called to the scene of a robbery in progress at a Dollar General store on August 17, 2018, and Vaughn became trapped inside the store. At one point during the resulting stand-off with officers, the defendant started a small fire, trying to destroy evidence. He eventually surrendered and was taken into custody. He eventually admitted to influencing and leading a group of juveniles into his criminal activity, stating they would do anything for money.
“Treveon Vaughn was a brazen, violent criminal. He instilled fear in his victims by making threats and using physical violence. During one robbery, he slapped a customer and fired his gun at the business owner. The Tulsa Police Department is to be commended for stopping Vaughn before his actions resulted in severe injury or death,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “Project Safe Neighborhoods is an initiative reinvigorated to target those criminals who repeatedly use violence and create instability and danger within neighborhoods. Vaughn is one of those perpetrators, and he was held accountable today for his criminal actions. This initiative is most successful when law enforcement, prosecutors, community groups and citizens work together to keep our communities safe.”
As part of the plea agreement, Vaughn will pay restitution to the businesses.
Vaughn will be sentenced in United States District Court on February 11, 2019, by U.S. District Judge John E. Dowdell. Vaughn faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a fine of $250,000.
The Tulsa Police Department and the FBI are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Roberts is the prosecuting attorney.
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.
Prison Sentences for Defendants in $1.8 Million Tax FraudRead the Press Release
PEORIA, Ill. –Senior U.S. District Judge Michael M. Mihm today sentenced the fifth and final defendant to prison for a tax fraud scheme that claimed more than $1.8 million in refunds from false tax returns.
On Oct. 30, Judge Mihm sentenced the leader of what the court described as a “remarkable conspiracy,” Clifton “Ty” Robinson, to 99 months (eight years, three months) in prison. Robinson’s sentence consists of 63 months for the fraud scheme to be followed by 36 months for aggravated identity theft charges to be served consecutive to the underlying offense.
In addition, Robinson, 44, and the four co-conspirators were ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1.2 million to the IRS for refunds paid as a result of false income tax returns filed for tax years 2012, 2013, and 2014. As a result of more than 300 false returns filed, Robinson and others claimed more than $1.8 million in refunds. Of the $1.8 million claimed, approximately $1.2 million was paid by the U.S. Treasury.
Robinson, of Chicago, was convicted in May 2018, following a bench trial before Judge Mihm. The government presented evidence at trial that established that Robinson and others were responsible for filing false federal income tax returns. While some individuals knowingly provided their identifying information for use in preparing the false returns, others had no idea how their information had been obtained. Evidence also established that some individuals sold their dependents’ information to Robinson for use on other individuals’ tax returns. Robinson used other members of the conspiracy to obtain identifying information of others and to provide “safe” addresses for the returns. Refunds from the fraudulent returns were deposited to bank accounts and prepaid debit cards controlled by members of the conspiracy.
As identified by the IRS, the majority of the returns identified in the scheme exhibited similar characteristics including false information as to income, dependents, addresses, education and occupation.
The four co-conspirators charged pleaded guilty to their respective roles in the conspiracy to defraud the government. Each was ordered to pay the full amount of restitution together and separately with their co-defendants. The defendants were sentenced to prison terms by Judge Mihm as follows:
Brieanna Kinney-Bonner, 31, of the 1900 block of S. Griswold St., Peoria, Ill., sentenced today to 12 months and one day in prison;
Monique Bonner, 42, of the 1800 block of N. Manchin, Peoria, Ill., 26 months in prison;
Tawanda Davis, 37, of the 1700 block of N. New York Ave., Peoria, 22 months in prison; and,
Velma Robertson, 42, of La Grange, Ill., 16 months in prison. Bonner, Davis and Robertson were each sentenced on Sept. 4, 2018.
The charges were investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Darilynn Knauss, Segev Phillips, and Kate Legge represented the government in the prosecution.
Owasso Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing More than 100 Kilograms of MarijuanaRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Trent Shores announced that Andrew Wade Wyrrick, 24, of Owasso, pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute marijuana and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
As part of his plea agreement, Wyrrick admitted to traveling to Pueblo, Colorado, in April 2018, to purchase marijuana for the purpose of selling it in northeastern Oklahoma. Wyrrick was charged with possession with intent to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana and for possessing a firearm to aid in his drug trafficking crimes.
“Wyrrick admitted transporting approximately 200 pounds of marijuana for sale in northeastern Oklahoma. Like other drug traffickers, he possessed a firearm to further his illicit activity, exponentially increasing the danger he presented to our community,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores.
Wyrrick will be sentenced in United States District Court on February 11, 2019, by U.S. District Judge John E. Dowdell. Wyrrick faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine for the possession of marijuana with intent to distribute charge, as well as a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the second charge, which must be served consecutively to any other penalty imposed
The Tulsa and Owasso Police Departments and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Roberts is prosecuting the case.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced that Mark Harrell, age 35, was sentenced in federal court Monday in Omaha, Nebraska, for one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false return. The Honorable Laurie Smith Camp sentenced Harrell to 5 years’ probation and ordered him to pay $43,058 in restitution.
For tax year 2012, Harrell prepared tax returns for friends and family members. On several of the U.S. Individual Income Tax Returns, Forms 1040 and 1040A, there were false and fraudulent statements that caused the I.R.S. to refund more money to the taxpayer than they were legally entitled to get. The false statements related to wages, wage withholding, and claims for American Opportunity Credit. In total, $43,058 was involved in Mr. Harrell’s scheme.
“Combatting refund fraud continues to be a priority for this office,” said Karl Stiften, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.
North Charleston Man Sentenced to 50 Months for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Charleston, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that Derrick Joy, Jr., 30, of North Charleston, South Carolina, was sentenced to over four years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on December 26, 2017, a North Charleston police officer saw Joy rolling a marijuana blunt in his vehicle in the parking lot of a convenience store. The officer surprised Joy, removed him from the vehicle, and placed him under arrest. A 9mm pistol loaded with 19 rounds of ammunition was discovered between the driver's seat and the driver's side door of Joy’s car. The gun had been reported stolen. Because Joy has previously been convicted of multiple felonies and crimes of domestic violence, federal law prohibits him from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Joy pled guilty to the firearm count, and United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel sentenced him to 50 months in federal prison to be followed by a 3-year term 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 (ATF) and the North Charleston Police Department. 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. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Schoen of the Charleston office prosecuted the case.
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New York Man Sentenced for Drug and Gun ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – A Brooklyn, New York man was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for a long-term heroin, methamphetamine, and gun-running conspiracy.
According to court documents, Shannon Poulson, 40, imported heroin and methamphetamine into Hampton Roads from out-of-state sources over a three-year period, and sold the drugs or traded them for guns. Poulson trafficked dozens of guns back to New York, where he sold them illicitly for a substantial profit.
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.
G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Thomas L. Chittum, III, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) Washington Field Division, and James A. Cervera, Chief of Virginia Beach Police, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Robert G. Doumar. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew C. Bosse prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:18-cr-49.
Moss Point Man Sentenced to over 12 Years in Federal Prison for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss – Michael Todd Ward, 52, of Moss Point, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Louis Guirola, Jr. to 151 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst, Christopher Freeze, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Derryle Smith, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
In 2016, Ward supplied co-defendants living in an area known as “the Hill” in Vancleave, Mississippi with more than 5 kilograms of methamphetamine and a half a kilogram of cocaine. He pled guilty on January 26, 2018 to an indictment that named him as a co-conspirator.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Meynardie.
Morgan County man indicted for failure to update his sex offender registrationRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Great Capacon, West Virginia man was indicted today on a failure to register as a sex offender charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Douglas Brett Bishop, age 51, is charged with one count of “Failure to Register.” Bishop is accused of failing to register as a sex offender in Morgan County, West Virginia from May to September 2018. Bishop was convicted of a crime in Union County, South Carolina that required him to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
Bishop faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. 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 Lara K. Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The United States Marshal Service and the West Virginia State Police investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
More than 22 tons of prescription medication were returned in Ohio as part of DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back events last monthRead the Press Release
More than 22 tons of prescription medication were returned in Ohio as part of DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back events last month.
The DEA’s Detroit Field Division, servicing Michigan and Ohio collected a total of 69,584 pounds of unused, unwanted or expired prescription drugs. The state of Ohio collected 45,206 pounsd, while Michigan collected 24,378 pounds. Each state collecting larger amounts than the previous event.
Nationally, DEA and federal, state and local partners disposed of more than 900,000 pounds of prescription medications collected at nearly 6,000 sites across the country during the 16th semiannual event on Oct. 27. Together with almost 5,000 local, state and federal partners, DEA collected and destroyed more than 457 tons of potentially dangerous leftover prescription drugs.
With the robust participation of Americans nationwide, DEA and its law enforcement partners have now surpassed its 10 million pound goal and collected nearly 11 million pounds of unused, unwanted or expired prescription medications over the course of 16 successful DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back events.
This brings the total amount of prescription drugs collected by DEA since the fall of 2010 to 10,878,950 pounds, or 5,439.5 tons.
“The results of our most recent Take Back Day clearly demonstrate a need for this initiative as a tool in the fight against America’s opioid crisis,” said Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon. “The success of this event is a direct reflection of DEA’s commitment to prevent drug addiction and overdose deaths in the U.S. Together, we are all helping to make a difference to keep our friends and families safe.”
“We know of many cases where leftover pain pills have led to an opioid addiction,” said U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio Justin Herdman said. “Properly disposing of these pills is one important step anyone can take to get involved in turning the tide on the opioid epidemic that has caused so much pain here in Ohio.”
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day events continue to remove opioids and other medicines from the nation’s homes, where they could be stolen and abused by family members and visitors, including children and teens.
DEA began putting on Take Back Day events when the public had no other way to appropriately dispose of their leftover painkillers and other potentially dangerous drugs. These events have been extremely successful not only in getting unused drugs out of the house, but also in raising awareness of their link to addiction and overdose deaths. Since DEA launched this program nine years ago, doctors are prescribing fewer painkillers, and law enforcement agencies, pharmacies and others have installed permanent prescription drug drop boxes on-site, making drug disposal even more convenient.
Helping people to dispose of potentially harmful prescription drugs is just one way DEA is working to reduce the addiction and overdose deaths plaguing this country due to opioid medications.
Complete results for DEA’s fall Take Back Day are available at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#initiative-results. DEA’s next Prescription Drug Take Back Day is April 27, 2019.
Mineral County man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – John Michael Martin, of Keyser, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms violation, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Martin, age 30, pled guilty to one count of “Sale or Transfer to a Prohibited Person.” Martin admitted to selling a 12-gauge shotgun to Nathan E. Carpenter, who was known to have been convicted of a crime, in April 2018 in Mineral County.
Martin faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. 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.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Marion County man indicted on firearms chargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Fairmont, West Virginia man was indicted today on a firearms charge, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Brian K. Griffey, age 48, is charged with one count of “Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition.” Griffey, having been previously convicted of multiple felonies, is accused of having a 12-gauge shotgun and shotgun shells in Harrison County in June 2018.
Griffey faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. 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.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci M. Cook is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Nutter Fort Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Marion County man indicted on drug and firearms chargesRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – A Fairmont, West Virginia man was indicted today on drug possession and firearms charges, United States Attorney Bill Powell announced.
Sanford Austin Mays, age 39, is charged with one count of “Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine” and one count of “Unlawful Possession of Firearms.” Mays is accused of possessing methamphetamine in Marion County in June 2018. Mays, having been previously convicted of multiple felonies, is also accused of having a .45 caliber pistol in Marion County in June 2018.
Mays faces up to 20 years incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for the methamphetamine count and faces up to 10 years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000 for the firearms count. 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.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Attorney General Jeff Sessions 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, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the White Hall Police Department investigated.
An indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Manchester Man Indicted for Impersonating A Deputy U.S. Marshal in Order to Commit Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that John B. Snow, age 26, of Manchester, Pennsylvania, was indicted on October 31, 2018, by a federal grand jury on child exploitation charges and the offense of personation of a federal official, specifically a Deputy U.S. Marshal. The indictment was unsealed following Snow’s initial appearance. Snow was temporarily detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for November 16, 2018.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the indictment alleges that between January 2017 and April 2017, Snow impersonated a Deputy U.S. Marshal and claimed he was running a training program for the U.S. Marshals Service in the York, Pennsylvania area. The indictment also alleges between February 18 and 24, 2017, Snow used a minor to produce sexually explicit images and between January 2017 and April 2017, coerced a sixteen-year-old minor online to engage in other sex acts.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Northern York County Regional Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meredith A. Taylor is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is lifetime 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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