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17 December 2018
Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker Applauds Significant Reduction in Violent Crime in Southern Illinois Achieved Through Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
America’s Highest Per Capita Murder Rate Down 42 Percent
EAST ST. LOUIS, IL – One year ago, the U.S. Attorney’s Office joined with its federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to implement Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) in East St. Louis, Illinois. The centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime strategy, PSN is a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement officials, along with community leaders, to identify the most pressing violent crime problems and to develop comprehensive solutions to address them.
According to numerous reports, since 2015, East St. Louis has had among the top per capita murder rates in the country. According to an analysis by the city of East St. Louis, from Dec. 4, 2016 to Dec. 4, 2017 there were 36 homicides in East St. Louis. Exactly one year after the implementation of PSN on Dec. 4, 2017, that number was reduced to 21 homicides. That represents a 42 percent decrease in homicides.
"PSN is about empowering people in their communities," said Acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker. "Rather than having Washington, D.C. dictate a uniform approach, PSN directs our U.S. Attorneys to work with their communities to develop a customized crime reduction plan to target the most violent criminals in the most violent areas, and to prevent and deter violent crimes before they happen. That is what we have done in East St. Louis—and it is working. In this city, where murder and violent crime rates are some of the highest in the country, crime is going down and public confidence is going up. I want to thank U.S. Attorney Weinhoeft, all of our prosecutors and federal officers and especially our state, local, and community partners. Their hard work is achieving incredible results that we want to replicate across America."
The United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Steven D. Weinhoeft, joined St. Clair County State’s Attorney Brendan Kelly, Illinois State Police Director Leo Schmitz,
East St. Louis Police Chief Jerry Simon, and United States Marshal Brad Maxwell, along with representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in announcing the development.
US Attorney Weinhoeft said, "One year ago, the city of East St. Louis experienced the highest per capita murder rate in America, for the third straight year. Today, on the one-year anniversary of the local implementation of the Project Safe Neighborhoods strategy, I’m happy to report that the homicide rate has been cut by 42 percent. There is still much to do. But, today, we can be very proud of the progress that has been made."
PSN is built on three foundational principles. First, it is community based. The initiative recognizes that different communities have different dynamics. As such, each US Attorney is tasked with tailoring a strategy that makes sense for that particular district. Second, PSN is a targeted program that uses law enforcement and community resources to identify the most violent offenders for criminal enforcement. This second principle recognizes that the majority of violent crimes are perpetrated by a small number of persistent violent offenders. Third, the program is comprehensive. It seeks to sustain relationships between local, state, and federal law enforcement, together with community groups, and with a focus on prevention and reentry strategies to disrupt the cycle of violence.
The US Attorney’s primary local PSN strategy has focused on leading bi-weekly case reviews at the East St. Louis police department with the law enforcement personnel who directly investigate violent crime cases. At those meetings, state, local, and federal law enforcement officials review every shooting incident and prioritize resources to focus on cases against the most persistent, repeat, violent offenders. State and federal prosecutors participate in the case reviews to help guide the investigations.
The Illinois State Police has supported law enforcement efforts for decades in the East St. Louis and Metro East areas. Over the past year, however, they have significantly increased their commitment by supporting the PSN initiative. The Illinois State Police has committed additional manpower to conduct proactive patrols, and they send crime scene investigators to process any scene involving a gun crime, whether or not the crime results in a fatality. This is a significant commitment considering East St. Louis receives roughly 1,300 calls each year for shots fired.
St. Clair County State’s Attorney Brendan Kelly said, "This is the kind of effort, with all the key agencies, consistently involved, that must be sustained over the long term if we are going to continue to move in the right direction. Law enforcement helps set the table for economic development by other parts of the community."
East St. Louis Police Chief Jerry Simon said, "I appreciate the support of the US Attorney’s Office and the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office, as well as the support of each of the law
enforcement agencies. This work is directly responsible for the decrease in the overall crime rate and for the significant reduction in the homicide rate. I look forward to continuing these relationships in the future."
US Attorney Weinhoeft said, "The challenges we face are great, but our resolve to meet those challenges is greater. One neighborhood at a time, and one shooter at a time, we are making the community safer. Today, that impact is most dramatically demonstrated by the 42% reduction in the homicide rate."
911 Call for Domestic Violence Results in 57 Months Federal Prison Sentence for Sumter ManRead the Press Release
Columbia, South Carolina---- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that Lorenzo Keith Goins, age 27, of Sumter, South Carolina, was sentenced in federal court for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Senior United States District Judge Margaret B. Seymour, of Charleston, sentenced Goodwater to 57 months in federal prison, to be followed by 3 years of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
Evidence presented during Goins’ guilty plea and sentencing hearing established that on October 20, 2017, the victim’s 19-year-old son called 911 and stated that Goins was threatening his mother with a handgun. Officers with the Sumter Police Department responded and encountered Goins, who was in possession of a .45 caliber Springfield Armory handgun and over 20 rounds of .45-caliber ammunition. Witnesses to the incident advised the officers that Goins grabbed the female victim by the throat and threw her up against her car. The victim’s 19-year-old son then attempted to engage Goins. Goins then displayed the firearm in his waistband and told the son, “You lucky I don’t pull it out on you.”
During the sentencing hearing, the transporting officer’s in-car video was played for the Judge. Goins was captured on the video becoming visibly irate with the transporting officer, making numerous threats to hurt the officer and his colleagues. Federal law prohibits Goins from possessing a firearm or ammunition based on his criminal record, which includes convictions for grand larceny, possession of crack cocaine, possession of marijuana, and receiving stolen goods. After his arrest, Goins made contact with the victim several times over the phone, attempting to get her to withdraw her statements to law enforcement about the assault.
The Court sentenced Goins to 57 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release with a special condition that he receive anger management treatment. This sentence was at the top of the advisory sentencing guideline range and was enhanced for his possession and use of the firearm during and in relation to the domestic violence incident.
The case was investigated by the Sumter Police Department and agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney JD Rowell of the Columbia office prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Project CeaseFire is South Carolina’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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14 December 2018
Wise County Man Pleads Guilty to Lying About DisabilityRead the Press Release
Abingdon, VIRGINIA – A Wise County man, who claimed to be to be too disabled to work and as a result received over $92,000 in disability benefits from the Railroad Retirement Board, pleaded guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court in Abingdon to making a false statement, United States Attorney Thomas T. Cullen announced.
Jeffrey L. Bates, 59, pleaded guilty yesterday to one count of making a false statement. At sentencing, Bates faces a maximum statutory sentence of up to five years in prison. The defendant has also agreed to pay $92,081 in restitution to the Railroad Retirement Board. Bates will be sentenced April 16, 2019.
“Protecting government-sponsored benefits programs from fraud and abuse is among our top priorities,” U.S. Attorney Cullen stated today. “False statements in connection with these programs, like the ones the defendant admitted to making in this case, are violations of federal law and will result in criminal prosecution.”
According to evidence presented at yesterday’s guilty plea hearing by Special Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Carnell, Bates had been receiving disability benefits from the Railroad Retirement Board since 2001. In 2015, the Railroad Retirement Board received a hotline complaint stating that Bates was self-employed in the lawn care business. The defendant filled out a form, as required by the Railroad Retirement Board, in 2016, wherein he falsely stated his self-employment status and the earnings he received.
The investigation of the case was conducted by the USRRB- OIG. Special Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Carnell is prosecuting the case for the United States.
Willimantic Teen Charged with Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division, and Willimantic Police Chief Roberto Rosado today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford returned a superseding indictment yesterday charging MOHAMMADREZA KAMALI, also known as “Reza,” 18, of Willimantic, with several firearms offenses.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, the investigation into Kamali began after law enforcement learned that Kamali was offering to sell firearms to individuals in Connecticut. On November 2, 2018, Kamali was arrested on a federal criminal complaint after he sold four AR-15 style firearms, which he had built himself after ordering parts on the internet, to an undercover ATF special agent.
On November 14, 2018, a grand jury returned an indictment charging Kamali with one count of dealing in firearms without a license, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. The three-count superseding indictment returned today adds one count of possession of a firearm made in violation of the National Firearms Act, and one count of possession of an unregistered firearm. Both of these charges, which carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on each count, relate to Kamali’s alleged sale of a short-barreled rifle to the undercover ATF agent.
Kamali has been released on a $50,000 bond since November 29, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the 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 (ATF) and Willimantic Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Clark.
Wilkinsburg Felon Charged with Illegally Possessing HandgunRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA – An Allegheny County resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of violating the federal firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The one-count Indictment named, returned on Dec. 12, Monte Barry, 20, of Wilkinsburg, Pa.
According to the Indictment, on or about October 3, 2018, Barry, being a convicted felon, did knowingly and unlawfully possess a 9mm caliber Taurus handgun. It is unlawful for Barry, who has previously been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year, to possess a firearm.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Adam N. Hallowell is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Washington man sentenced for meth distributionRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A Washington man who admitted distributing pound quantities of methamphetamine primarily in the Great Falls area was sentenced on Dec. 12 to 90 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Cody David Paine, 35, of Kettle Falls, Wash., pleaded guilty previously to possession with intent to distribute meth.
U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
An FBI investigation that began in February 2017 identified Paine as dealing large quantities of meth in Great Falls. Paine would travel with others in 2016 to Washington to pick up pounds of meth for distribution in various locations in Montana, including Missoula and Great Falls.
In May 2018, agents arrested an individual on a warrant in Missoula and learned that the individual had obtained about seven pounds of meth and a pound of heroin over three months in 2018 from Paine. Also in May, FBI agents arrested Paine in Missoula. Paine told agents that he had a large customer base for meth in Montana and that he had distributed multiple pounds of meth. One pound of meth is the equivalent of about 3,624 individual doses.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Betley prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the FBI.
The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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United States Sues Freight Companies for Systematic Overcharging of ShipmentsRead the Press Release
The United States has filed a complaint in the Western District of New York against YRC Freight Inc., (YRC); Roadway Express Inc. (Roadway); and Yellow Transportation Inc. (Yellow), alleging that these companies systematically overcharged the government for freight carrier services and made false statements to the government that hid their misconduct, the Justice Department announced today.
The United States filed this lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Buffalo, New York. The United States alleges that, for more than seven years, the defendants defrauded the Department of Defense by millions of dollars for shipments that were actually lighter, and thus cheaper, than the weights for which the defendants charged the government. The United States further alleges that the defendants knowingly made or used false statements concealing their overcharging practices to the Department of Defense.
“Those who do business with the government must do so fairly and honestly,” said Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division. “Knowingly overcharging the government is an affront to American taxpayers, and the Department of Justice will seek to ensure that those who engage in such misconduct are held accountable.”
Specifically, the United States’ lawsuit alleges that the defendants reweighed thousands of shipments and suppressed the results whenever they indicated that a shipment was actually lighter than its original estimated weight. Thus, instead of charging the Department of Defense for shipments based on the correct weight, the defendants knowingly billed the government (and their other customers) based on weights that they knew to be inflated. The defendants also allegedly made false statements to induce the Department of Defense to use them as freight carriers and further knowingly made or used false statements to improperly avoid their obligations to correct inflated invoices and return overpayments.
“When a federal agency, such as the Department of Defense, enters into a service contract with a private corporation or company, the expectation is that the agreement will be administered in good faith,” stated U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy Jr. for the Western District of New York. “In this case, YRC did not legally fulfill its agreed upon obligations to the Defense Department, choosing instead to line its pockets with tax payer’s dollars. Such actions are fraudulent and illegal. This case should serve as a warning to any organization that enters into a contract with the federal government—if you try to rip us off, be prepared to pay a heavy price.”
“This complaint is the result of a successful investigation to identify those who seek to profit by defrauding the Defense Department," stated Leigh-Alistair Barzey, Special Agent-in-Charge, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Northeast Field Office. "DCIS will continue to investigate procurement fraud allegations, along with its law enforcement partners, in order to protect U.S. military members and the American tax payer."
The original lawsuit in this case was filed by James Hannum under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act. Under the act, private citizens can bring suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in any recovery. The act permits the government to intervene in such lawsuits, as it has done here. Those who violate the act are subject to treble damages and civil penalties.
This matter was investigated by the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the United States Army Criminal Investigation Division Command.
The case is captioned United States ex rel. Hannum v. YRC Freight, Inc.; Roadway Express, Inc.; and Yellow Transportation, Inc., Civil Action No. 08-0811(A) (W.D.N.Y.).
The claims asserted in the United States’ complaint are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
United States Sues Freight Companies for Systematic Overcharging of ShipmentsRead the Press Release
CONTACT: Barbara Burns
PHONE: (716) 843-5817
FAX #: (716) 551-3051BUFFALO, N.Y. – The United States has filed a complaint in the Western District of New York against YRC Freight Inc., (YRC); Roadway Express Inc. (Roadway); and Yellow Transportation Inc. (Yellow), alleging that these companies systematically overcharged the government for freight carrier services and made false statements to the government that hid their misconduct, the Justice Department announced today.
The United States filed this lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Buffalo, New York. The United States alleges that, for more than seven years, the defendants defrauded the Department of Defense by millions of dollars for shipments that were actually lighter, and thus cheaper, than the weights for which the defendants charged the government. The United States further alleges that the defendants knowingly made or used false statements concealing their overcharging practices to the Department of Defense.
“When a federal agency, such as the Department of Defense, enters into a service contract with a private corporation or company, the expectation is that the agreement will be administered in good faith,” stated U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy Jr. for the Western District of New York. “In this case, YRC did not legally fulfill it’s agreed upon obligations to the Defense Department, choosing instead to line its pockets with taxpayer’s dollars. Such actions are fraudulent and illegal. This case should serve as a warning to any organization that enters into a contract with the federal government—if you try to rip us off, be prepared to pay a heavy price.”
“Those who do business with the government must do so fairly and honestly,” said Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division. “Knowingly overcharging the government is an affront to American taxpayers, and the Department of Justice will seek to ensure that those who engage in such misconduct are held accountable.”
“This complaint is the result of a successful investigation to identify those who seek to profit by defrauding the Defense Department," stated Leigh-Alistair Barzey, Special Agent-in-Charge, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Northeast Field Office. "DCIS will continue to investigate procurement fraud allegations, along with its law enforcement partners, in order to protect U.S. military members and the American tax payer."
Specifically, the United States’ lawsuit alleges that the defendants reweighed thousands of shipments and suppressed the results whenever they indicated that a shipment was actually lighter than its original estimated weight. Thus, instead of charging the Department of Defense for shipments based on the correct weight, the defendants knowingly billed the government (and their other customers) based on weights that they knew to be inflated. The defendants also allegedly made false statements to induce the Department of Defense to use them as freight carriers and further knowingly made or used false statements to improperly avoid their obligations to correct inflated invoices and return overpayments.
The original lawsuit in this case was filed by James Hannum under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act. Under the act, private citizens can bring suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in any recovery. The act permits the government to intervene in such lawsuits, as it has done here. Those who violate the act are subject to treble damages and civil penalties.
This matter was investigated by the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the United States Army Criminal Investigation Division Command.
The case is captioned United States ex rel. Hannum v. YRC Freight, Inc.; Roadway Express, Inc.; and Yellow Transportation, Inc., Civil Action No. 08-0811(A) (W.D.N.Y.).
The claims asserted in the United States’ complaint are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
# # # #Twenty-Two Individuals Indicted for Bank Fraud and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
SAN JUAN, P.R. - On December 13, 2018, a federal Grand Jury returned a 37-count indictment charging 22 individuals with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, 18 substantive counts of bank fraud, and 16 counts of aggravated identity theft, announced Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. During the course of the scheme, the defendants illegally obtained $560,640.43 from the Bureau of the Lottery of Puerto Rico (the “PR Lottery), a division of the Puerto Rico Treasury Department. The United States Secret Service was in charge of the investigation.
According to the indictment, defendant [1] Natalie Enid González-Rodríguez produced or procured fraudulent checks using the names and addresses of unsuspecting business concerns operating in Puerto Rico as apparent issuers of the checks (the “Fake Employers”) specifying the routing and account number for the PR Lottery’s bank account. The false checks were issued payable to one of the following defendants as employees or contractors: [2] Vanessa Pérez; [3] María Magdalena Silva, a.k.a. “María Magdalena Robaina/María Silva/María Robaina;” [4] Miguel Ángel Robaina, a.k.a. “Miguel Robaina;” [5] Destini Angelica Hanze, a.k.a. “Destini Hanze;” [6] Ángel Miguel Berríos-García, a.k.a. “Ángel M. Berrios-García/Ángel Berríos;” [7] Melissa Parilla-Belardo, a.k.a. “Melissa Parrilla;” [8] Luis Alberto Maldonado III, a.k.a. “Luis A. Maldonado/Luis Alberto Maldonado;” [9] Johanna Luciano-Velázquez, a.k.a. “Johanna Luciano;” [10] Martin Martínez-López, a.k.a. “Martin Martínez;” [11] Eric Alberto Delgado-Carmona, a.k.a. “Eric Delgado/Eric Delgado Carmona;” [12] Pedro Iván Cortés-Castañón, a.k.a. “Pedro Cortés/Pedro Iván Cortés;” [13] Allan R. Mercado-Serrano, a.k.a. “Allan Mercado;” [14] Julieanies Mercado-Laboy, a.k.a. “Julieanies Mercado;” [15] Marc Anthony Ramos-Medina, a.k.a. “Marc Anthony Ramos;” [16] Gustavo A. Cruz-Rosado, a.k.a. “Gustavo Cruz;” [17] Joshua A. Molina-Morales, a.k.a. “Joshua Molina;” [18] Natyshia Enid Soto-González, a.k.a. “Natyshia Enid Soto/Natyshia Soto;” [19] Edmilio Rosario-Ramírez, a.k.a. “Edmilio Rosario/Ángel Ruiz Rodríguez/El Millo;” [20] Angelo Rodríguez-Cortés, a.k.a. “Angelo Rodríguez;” [21] Antonio L. Pacheco-Ayala, a.k.a. “Antonio Pacheco;” and [22] Yalitza Quiñones-Figueroa, a.k.a. “Yaritza Quiñones.”
The indictment alleges that the co-conspirators would take the false checks to multiple discount stores to negotiate them in exchange for cash or to use them to buy consumer products and return the proceeds of the scheme to Natalie Enid González-Rodríguez, who would then give them a portion of those proceeds. By executing the scheme and cashing the false checks at the discount stores, supermarkets and department stores, the co-conspirators obtained and procured funds belonging to the PR Lottery by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises.
Defendant González-Rodríguez is facing 16 counts of aggravated identity theft. Between on or about October 2, 2015 through the date of this indictment, aided and abetted by the defendants listed in each count, and others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, did knowingly transfer, possess, and use, without lawful authority, a means of identification of another real person as detailed in each count during and in relation to the bank fraud.
“Defendant González-Rodríguez perpetrated this fraudulent scheme over many years, and involved many people who are defendants today for a fragment of the proceeds she generated. These charges once again demonstrate the U.S. Attorney’s Office resolve to investigate and prosecute those who perpetrate financial schemes to defraud unsuspected victims,” said U.S. Attorney Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez.
U.S. Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge Carlos Colón stated: “This case highlights the Secret Service’s investigative skills and our commitment to collaborate with our law enforcement partners in detecting and dismantling criminal organizations. These crimes have a detrimental impact to our nation’s critical financial infrastructure. Financial fraud is one of the largest challenges facing American citizens and businesses today. The United Secret Service will continue to collaborate with its law enforcement partners to target and arrest who commit this type of fraud.”
If convicted, the defendants face a maximum possible sentence of incarceration of 30 years for bank fraud, and a consecutive two-year mandatory minimum sentence for aggravated identity theft. The investigation was conducted by the United States Secret Service and the case is being prosecuted by AUSA Dennise N. Longo-Quiñones.
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Tickfaw Man Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ZETRICK JONES, age 34, of Tickfaw, Louisiana, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury on one count of conspiring to distribute heroin and methamphetamine in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and 846; one count of possessing with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C), one count of possessing with the intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C), one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A), and one count of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1).
If convicted of any of the narcotics offenses, JONES faces a term of imprisonment of 0-20 years, a fine of up to $1 million, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. If convicted of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, JONES faces a term of imprisonment of five years to run consecutive to any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release. If convicted of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm, JONES faces a term of imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that the indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Hammond Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey Sandman is in charge of the prosecution.
Three Colombian Nationals Sentenced for Conspiring to Import More Than 1,000 Kilograms of Cocaine into the United States Through La Familia Michoacana Cartel in MexicoRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Susan C. Bucklew has sentenced three Colombian nationals for their roles in conspiring to import cocaine into the United States. Mauricio Ortega-Coneo was sentenced to 21 years and 10 months in federal prison, Jorge Luis Puello-Pantoja was sentenced to 19 years and 7 months’ imprisonment, and William Padilla-Garcia was sentenced to a term of 9 years in federal prison.
According to court documents, in April 2012, Ortega-Coneo and Puello-Pantoja were involved in meetings at a hotel in Bogota, Colombia, for the purpose of planning an 1,100 kilogram shipment of cocaine from Cartagena, Colombia to Honduras. The cocaine was then to be routed from Honduras to La Familia Michoacana Cartel in Mexico, for ultimate importation into the United States. Ortega-Coneo was an organizer of the conspiracy on behalf of Colombian traffickers; Puello-Pantoja was the Colombian representative of a drug trafficking organization in Honduras that was to receive the cocaine. On May 12, 2012, a vessel carrying the cocaine was intercepted approximately 157 nautical miles west of Cartagena. Padilla-Garcia was one of the crewmembers aboard the vessel. Due to the intervention of law enforcement, the cocaine never reached its destination. The defendants were arrested in Colombia in 2017 and extradited to the United States in early 2018.
This case was investigated by the Panama Express Strike Force, a standing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) comprised of agents and analysts from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and the U.S. Southern Command’s Joint Interagency Task Force. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza.
Stratford Man Who Illegally Purchased Firearm at Newington Gun Store Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TYMON PETERSON, 29, of Stratford, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall in New Haven to one count of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, in August and September 2017, Peterson and Jamal Weir texted one another about purchasing firearms. Peterson possessed a valid pistol permit and was able to purchase firearms legally, but Weir, as a convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing firearms. On September 22, 2017, Peterson and Weir travelled together to Hoffman’s Gun Center in Newington. At the store, Weir provided Peterson with cash to purchase at least one firearm on his behalf. On that date, Peterson filled out an ATF Form 4473 in which he falsely represented that he was the actual purchaser of a SCCY Model CPX-2, 9mm semi-automatic pistol, and that he was not acquiring the firearm for another person. Peterson gave the pistol to Weir after they exited the store.
Peterson was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on January 1, 2018.
Judge Hall scheduled sentencing for March 8, 2019, at which time Peterson faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.
Peterson is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
Weir, 29, of Bridgeport, has been detained since his arrest on September 17, 2018. On December 6, 2018, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 1, 2019.
This investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the assistance of the Connecticut State Police, the Newington Police Department and Hoffman’s Gun Center. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anthony E. Kaplan and Margaret E. Maigret.
Steelton Woman Charged with Defrauding Senior Citizen Out of $86,500Read the Press Release
HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Sally Berry, age 62, of Steelton, Pennsylvania, was charged in a criminal information on December 13, 2018, with wire fraud for defrauding a 78 year-old man out of $86,500.
According to United States Attorney David J. Freed, the criminal information alleges that Berry defrauded the victim by falsely representing to him that Berry was going to receive a $750,000 settlement from the Western Union, fraud victim reimbursement fund and by persuading him to give her a series of eight loans between September 2017 and July 2018 totaling $97,500 to pay attorney fees and travel expenses incurred in connection with her settlement.
In January of 2017, Western Union entered into a Deferred Prosecution Agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorneys’ Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania wherein Western Union forfeited the sum of $586 million to the government. Under the terms of the Agreement the government made the $586 million available to reimburse victims of mass marketing, consumer fraud schemes who were fraudulently induced into sending Western Union money transfers between 2004 and 2017.
To process the claims submitted by the thousands of fraud victims, the Department of Justice retained the services of Gilardi and Company, LLC (Gilardi), to serve as the forfeiture fund’s petition for remission administrator.
On or about May 30, 2018, Berry submitted a claim to Gilardi for reimbursement of alleged fraud losses totaling $25,084. However, no other claim for any additional amount was submitted by Berry.
The Information alleges that beginning in September 2017, Berry repeatedly assured the victim she was going to receive $750,000 from the Western Union fund and that her claim had been approved by the Department of Justice. Berry allegedly asked the victim to lend her money so she could pay various legal fees and travel expenses incurred in connection with her claim.
On September 28, 2018, the victim provided Berry the first loan in the amount of $25,000. According to the Information, the victim financed the loan by borrowing $25,000 from a credit union.
The Information further alleges that in order to induce the victim into making additional loans, Berry gave the victim a Western Union Petition for Remission form bearing the handwritten note: “Proof of Western Union Settlement,” and another Western Union Remission document bearing the handwritten note: “Look at this – My claim was submitted and accepted 5/31 – Just a matter of time.”
Berry allegedly provided the victim assurance her loans would be repaid in the event she died by giving the victim a Nomination of Beneficiaries form from the Pennsylvania Public School Employees Retirement System. The document, signed by Berry, bore the handwritten note: “Mr. W. will receive the amount of $150,000.”
The Information also alleges Berry defrauded the victim by making six cash, lulling loan payments totaling $11,000 between September 2017 and May 2018.
According to the Information, in July 2018, Berry asked the victim for an additional $7,500 so she could ostensibly travel to Kentucky and Colorado to finalize her Western Union claim. Berry allegedly told the victim the $7,500 would allow her attorney to file additional paperwork so she could receive up to $900,000 from Western Union. Because by this time the victim had depleted all of his life savings, the victim borrowed $15,000 from a bank and gave Berry a check for $7,500.
Berry was arrested by U.S. Postal Inspectors in connection with the charges on November 15, 2018, and was subsequently ordered detained by Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Martin C. Carlson. Following a preliminary hearing before Judge Carlson on November 27, 2018, Berry was held over on the charges pending further proceedings.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Harrisburg Office. Assistant United States Attorney Kim Douglas Daniel is prosecuting the case.
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 this offense is 10 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the Judge is also required to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendant's educational, vocational and medical needs. For these reasons, the statutory maximum penalty for the offense is not an accurate indicator of the potential sentence for a specific defendant.
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St. Francis Woman Indicted for Escape and Criminal Contempt ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a St. Francis, South Dakota, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Escape from Custody and Criminal Contempt.
Omalewin Neck, age 25, was indicted on December 11, 2018. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 13, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 5 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Neck plead guilty to Involuntary Manslaughter, on August 7, 2018. She was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending sentencing for the Involuntary Manslaughter charge, which is set for January 4, 2018.
The Indictment alleges that on December 1, 2018, Neck failed to report to the Winner City Jail, following a furlough to attend a funeral, as ordered by the U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota. The Indictment further alleges Neck willfully and unlawfully disobeyed an order of the U.S. District Court, by not following the terms of her furlough to attend a funeral.
The charges are merely accusations and Neck is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Neck was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Springfield Woman Sentenced to 20 Years for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal court today for her role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Carol A. Hardy, also known as Carol A. Johnson, 49, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to 20 years in federal prison without parole.
On July 17, 2018, Hardy pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine from March 30 to Oct. 18, 2017. Hardy was an upper-level distributor in a drug trafficking organization that distributed at least 4.5 kilograms of pure methamphetamine in the Springfield area. The methamphetamine was purchased from Kansas City, Mo., and Oklahoma City, Okla., and transported by vehicle to the Springfield area.
Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Hardy’s residence and found 1.766 kilograms of methamphetamine in a safe on the floor of a bedroom closet. Officers also found a notebook containing a drug ledger inside a purse on top of the bed.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nhan D. Nguyen. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
Springfield Tutor Sentenced to 30 Years for Sexual Abuse of 10-year-old StudentRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man who worked as a private tutor was sentenced in federal court today for sexually assaulting a former 10-year-old student.
John Paul Sparapani, 30, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to 30 years in federal prison without parole, which is the maximum statutory penalty for this offense. The court also sentenced Sparapani to a lifetime of supervised release following incarceration.
On Feb. 21, 2018, Sparapani pleaded guilty to using a minor to produce child pornography. He admitted that he took pornographic photos of a student he was tutoring in a private room at a public library.
This investigation began when an officer with the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force identified Sparapani’s computer as sharing child pornography on a peer-to-peer file-sharing network on May 25, 2015. Officers executed a search warrant at Sparapani’s residence on Dec. 21, 2015, and seized two laptop computers, three hard drives and a cell phone, which contained multiple images and videos of child pornography.
On August 25, 2017, a 12-year-old minor female disclosed that Sparapani had sexually assaulted her when she was 10 and 11 years old and had taken photographs of the assault with his cell phone. The child victim disclosed that the sexual abuse occurred while she was being tutored by Sparapani in a private room at a public library.This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by the FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
Project Safe Childhood
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."Springfield Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Producing, Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for producing and distributing child pornography.
Genard Alonzo Toney, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to 30 years in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Toney to a lifetime of supervised release following incarceration.
On May 29, 2018, Toney pleaded guilty to one count of using a minor to produce child pornography and to one count of receiving and distributing child pornography.
According to court documents, Toney engaged in a pattern of soliciting images of child pornography through the internet. Toney pretended to be a female seeking female relationship on a dating website and would text message with women he met on the dating website. Toney used a cell phone application, which provided him with a fake, anonymous cell phone number, cloaking his own number from identification. Generally, one of the first things Toney would ask the person he was messaging with was whether they had any children. Toney would then ask them to send him a sexually explicit picture of the children.
Investigators examined devices seized from Toney and found 283 separate conversations, consisting of 13,676 messages Toney engaged in with the women he met on the dating website, and multiple images of child pornography.
At the time of this offense, Toney was on state probation after being convicted of three counts of distributing a controlled substance.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Project Safe Childhood
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."Shreveport Man Sentenced to 78 Months in Prison for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced that a Shreveport man was sentenced last week to 78 months in prison for distributing methamphetamine.
Dante Jerrad Roberson, 30, of Shreveport, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He was also sentenced to five years of supervised release. According to the June 26, 2018 guilty plea, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s narcotics agents searched a house on September 15, 2017 located on Redbud Lane in Shreveport and found Roberson and two other individuals. During the search, agents found 13 bags of methamphetamine inside of a bag of charcoal, which was inside a grill in the backyard. Agents also found two digital scales, several bags of marijuana, and dosages of Xanax and MDMA. Roberson admitted to traveling to Dallas to obtain the methamphetamine and later hiding it in the barbecue pit. The total amount of methamphetamine found weighed 358.8 grams.
The DEA and Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford prosecuted the case.
Shreveport Man Pleads Guilty to Financial Aid Fraud Scheme at Bossier Parish Community CollegeRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced today that a Shreveport man pleaded guilty to his role in a financial aid scheme at Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC), which caused a loss of more than $400,000.
Deundre Fleeks, 27, of Shreveport, Louisiana, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. to one count of financial aid fraud. According to the guilty plea, Fleeks completed 20 Free Applications for Federal Student Aid in other students’ names. He would then attend their classes, complete coursework and in return received payment from the students to conduct these tasks. The Department of Education disbursed $262,793 in Federal Direct Stafford Loans and $144,052 in Federal Pell Grants during the course of the scheme, which took place from August 2014 to September 2016.
Fleeks faces up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. The court set the sentencing date for March 21, 2019.
The U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg is prosecuting the case.
Schaghticoke Man Arrested for Transportation of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jake Alexander Cruse, age 32, of Schaghticoke, New York, was arrested on December 12 on charges of transporting child pornography.
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).
The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Cruse appeared on December 12 before United States Magistrate Judge Christian F. Hummel. Following a detention hearing held yesterday, Cruse was detained pending trial.
If convicted, Cruse faces at least 5 years and up to 20 years in prison, a term of post-release supervision of at least 5 years and up to life, and a fine of up to $250,000. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. Additionally, if convicted, Cruse would be required to register as a sex offender.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emmet O’Hanlon.
Saudi Citizen Admits to Visa Fraud and Concealing Attendance at Al Qaeda Training CampRead the Press Release
OKLAHOMA CITY — Naif Abdulaziz M. Alfallaj, 35, a citizen of Saudi Arabia and a former resident of Weatherford, Oklahoma, has pleaded guilty to visa fraud and making a false statement to the FBI by, among other things, concealing his application to and attendance at an al Qaeda training camp in Afghanistan in late 2000.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester of the Western District of Oklahoma, and Special Agent in Charge Kathryn Peterson of the FBI’s Oklahoma City Division made the announcement.
"Protecting our national security is the highest priority of the Department of Justice," said Mr. Troester. "I commend the outstanding efforts of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force for its collaborative and focused work in this investigation."
"This investigation highlights the ongoing, coordinated efforts of the FBI and the Joint Terrorism Task Force to protect and defend the American people against any potential acts of terror," said Kathryn Peterson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Oklahoma City Division.
On Feb. 5, 2018, Alfallaj was taken into custody by the FBI without incident, based on a criminal complaint signed in the Western District of Oklahoma. According to the complaint, the FBI found 15 of Alfallaj’s fingerprints on an application to an al Qaeda training camp, known as al Farooq, which was one of al Qaeda’s key training sites in Afghanistan. The document was recovered by the U.S. military from an al Qaeda safe house in Afghanistan. The document is also alleged to include an emergency contact number associated with Alfallaj’s father in Saudi Arabia. Alfallaj is alleged to have first entered the U.S. in late 2011 on a nonimmigrant visa based on his wife’s status as a foreign student. According to the complaint, he answered several questions on his visa application falsely, including whether he had ever supported terrorists or terrorist organizations. Alfallaj has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on Feb. 5.
On Feb. 6, a grand jury returned a three-count indictment against Alfallaj. The indictment charged two counts of visa fraud. Count One alleged that from March 2012 to the present, Alfallaj possessed a visa obtained by fraud. Count Two alleged he used that visa in October 2016 to apply for lessons at a private flight school in Oklahoma. The third count charged him with making a false statement to the FBI involving an offense of international terrorism, when he denied ever having associated with anyone from a foreign terrorist group.
At today’s hearing, Alfallaj pleaded guilty to one count of visa fraud and one count of making a false statement to the FBI relating to international terrorism. In particular, he admitted he possessed a nonimmigrant visa from March 2012 to early 2018 that he obtained by fraud. He also admitted he falsely told agents during the December 2017 interview that he had never visited Afghanistan or participated in religious, tactical, or military training outside Saudi Arabia, and otherwise affirmed falsely that all of the answers on his nonimmigrant visa application were true and correct.
Alfallaj faces up to ten years in prison on the visa-fraud offense. He faces up to eight years in prison for making a false statement involving international terrorism. He could also be fined up to $250,000 on each count. As part of his plea agreement, Alfallaj consented to the entry of a stipulated judicial order of removal from the United States at the end of his prison term. The Court will set a sentencing date in approximately 90 days. The maximum sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. Any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court, based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes members from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Secret Service, the Transportation Security Administration, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the University of Oklahoma Police Department, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Edmond Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Dillon of the Western District of Oklahoma and Trial Attorney David C. Smith of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
Saudi Citizen Admits to Visa Fraud and Concealing Attendance at Al Qaeda Training CampRead the Press Release
Naif Abdulaziz M. Alfallaj, 35, a citizen of Saudi Arabia and a former resident of Weatherford, Oklahoma, has pleaded guilty to visa fraud and making a false statement to the FBI by, among other things, concealing his application to and attendance at an al Qaeda training camp in Afghanistan in late 2000.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester of the Western District of Oklahoma, and Special Agent in Charge Kathryn Peterson of the FBI’s Oklahoma City Division made the announcement.
On Feb. 5, Alfallaj was taken into custody by the FBI without incident, based on a criminal complaint signed in the Western District of Oklahoma. According to the complaint, the FBI found 15 of Alfallaj’s fingerprints on an application to an al Qaeda training camp, known as al Farooq, which was one of al Qaeda’s key training sites in Afghanistan. The document was recovered by the U.S. military from an al Qaeda safe house in Afghanistan. The document is also alleged to include an emergency contact number associated with Alfallaj’s father in Saudi Arabia. Alfallaj is alleged to have first entered the U.S. in late 2011 on a nonimmigrant visa based on his wife’s status as a foreign student. According to the complaint, he answered several questions on his visa application falsely, including whether he had ever supported terrorists or terrorist organizations. Alfallaj has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on Feb. 5.
On Feb. 6, a grand jury returned a three-count indictment against Alfallaj. The indictment charged two counts of visa fraud. Count One alleged that from March 2012 to the present, Alfallaj possessed a visa obtained by fraud. Count Two alleged he used that visa in October 2016 to apply for lessons at a private flight school in Oklahoma. The third count charged him with making a false statement to the FBI involving an offense of international terrorism, when he denied ever having associated with anyone from a foreign terrorist group.
At today’s hearing, Alfallaj pleaded guilty to one count of visa fraud and one count of making a false statement to the FBI relating to international terrorism. In particular, he admitted he possessed a nonimmigrant visa from March 2012 to early 2018 that he obtained by fraud. He also admitted he falsely told agents during the December 2017 interview that he had never visited Afghanistan or participated in religious, tactical, or military training outside Saudi Arabia, and otherwise affirmed falsely that all of the answers on his nonimmigrant visa application were true and correct.
Alfallaj faces up to ten years in prison on the visa-fraud offense. He faces up to eight years in prison for making a false statement involving international terrorism. He could also be fined up to $250,000 on each count. As part of his plea agreement, Alfallaj consented to the entry of a stipulated judicial order of removal from the United States at the end of his prison term. The Court will set a sentencing date in approximately 90 days. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. Any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes members from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Secret Service, the Transportation Security Administration, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the University of Oklahoma Police Department, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Edmond Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Dillon of the Western District of Oklahoma and Trial Attorney David C. Smith of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
San Jose Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Mailing Letters Attacking Victims’ Sexual Orientation, Race, and ReligionRead the Press Release
SAN JOSE - Robert Gary Toltzis was sentenced to 18 months in prison for mailing hateful threats to victims because of their sexual orientation, race, and religion, announced U.S. 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, U.S. District Judge.
Toltzis, 56, of San Jose, pleaded guilty to one count of mailing threatening communications. At the time of his plea, Toltzis admitted to executing a scheme to issue a series threats of death, bodily injury, injury to reputation, and other forms of harassment to at least sixteen different victims. Toltzis sent the threats using anonymous remailers, his own e-mail address, and the U.S. mail and chose his victims based on his belief of their sexual orientation, national origin, and ethnic background. Toltzis acknowledged that he further harmed his victims by mailing copies of the threats to the victims’ friends and family.
Toltzis admitted he knew that some of the victims he targeted had severe mental health conditions whom he knew to be vulnerable to his hateful threats. In addition, Toltzis admitted that on one occasion, he mailed a letter to a victim at his home urging the victim to kill himself and claiming that the victim was a drug addict, bad husband, and a homosexual. Toltzis also admitted he delivered threats to victims who were particularly vulnerable because they had not publicly communicated their sexual orientation to their family, friends, or community.
On November 12, 2014, a federal grand jury indicted Toltzis, charging him with four counts of mailing threatening communications, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 876(c). He pleaded guilty to one count and the remaining three were dismissed.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Davila ordered Toltzis to pay a $10,000 fine and serve a three-year term of supervised release. Judge Davila scheduled an additional hearing for March 11, 2019, to determine the amount of compensation Toltzis will be ordered to pay his victims.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick R. Delahunty is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Susan Kreider. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.
Roundup Nets 15 Defendants in a Home Healthcare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
St. Louis – Fifteen area residents were indicted yesterday in eight cases alleging health care fraud by “caregivers” and “home health care clients” purportedly receiving home health care. In each of the cases, the workers and patients are alleged to have sought payment for services from the Missouri Medicaid Program for services not actually rendered. In 14 of the 15 cases, the provision of services at the St. Louis area residences of the clients was an impossibility because either the caregiver and/or the home health care clients were travelling abroad during the times the services were purportedly rendered in the Eastern District of Missouri.
Ghufran Abdallah Jaber, 51, is charged with healthcare fraud;
Hend Msallati, 33, is charged with making false statements;
Fatemeh Akbari, 73, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Pegdah Heidari, 27, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Ghufran Jaber, 51, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Haider Albab, 75, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Nouria Habeb, 67, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Hala Alalewi, 38, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Huda Mohammedjamil, 53, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Dena Ahmed, 30, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Tony Iyar, 57, is charged with healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Asal Yousif, 53, is charged with healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Kian Abdollah, 52, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements;
Mohammed Abdollah, 78, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements; and
Dalia Ahmed, 27, is charged with conspiracy, healthcare fraud and making false statements.
"Home health care allows loved ones to stay at home while they receive critical assistance," said Special Agent in Charge Richard Quinn of the FBI St. Louis Division. "When people defraud the program, money is diverted from folks who really need the services."
Steve Hanson, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Kansas City Region, state, "Our office will continue to pursue those who submit false claims to our programs and hold them accountable. Unscrupulous behavior like this drives up healthcare costs for everyone."
The charges in the Indictment are only accusations and all the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General – Office of Investigations; and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General.
AUSA Tracy Berry is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Rosebud Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Jeffrey W. Provancial, age 27, was indicted on December 11, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 13, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Provancial was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force and Sexual Abuse in July 2010 in federal court. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender for his natural life. It is alleged that between June 13, 2018, and November 2, 2018, Provancial failed to properly register as a sex offender as required by law.
The charge is merely an accusation and Provancial is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Provancial was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rochester Man Convicted Following A Jury Trial of Possessing A Shotgun and Ammunition SentencedRead 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 Quincey Frye, 27, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted following a jury trial of being a felon in possession of a shotgun and ammunition, was sentenced to 40 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles E. Moynihan, who handled the prosecution of the case, stated that on March 26, 2016, members from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision apprehended Frye at 270 Weyl Street in Rochester, after he absconded from parole supervision in early February. While looking for the defendant inside the residence, officers found a shotgun with an ammunition carrying case attached. The ammunition carrier contained four live shotgun shells. Officers found Frye hiding in the attic and arrested him. Evidence presented during the trial showed that after officers took Frye to booking at the Monroe County Jail, he placed a telephone call to his girlfriend. During that telephone call, which was recorded, the defendant accused his girlfriend of telling law enforcement officers about the shotgun and then said he wanted it returned.
At the time, Frye was under the supervision of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision following a 2012 conviction and serving a prison sentence for Attempted Burglary in the Second Degree.
The prosecution was brought by the United States Attorney’s Office as part of its Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative. PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Today’s sentencing is the result of an investigation by New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, under the direction of Acting Commissioner Anthony J. Annucci; the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Simmons; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ashan Benedict, New York Field Division.
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Recidivist Drug Trafficker from Sampson County Receives Thirty Year Prison SentenceRead the Press Release
RALEIGH – United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announced that today in Federal Court, United States District Judge James C. Dever, III sentenced TONY CHEVALLIER, 40, from Clinton, North Carolina, to 360 months in prison, to be followed by 10 years of Federal Supervised Release. CHEVALLIER was part of a regional drug trafficking organization (DTO) that was rooted in Sampson County, North Carolina, but operated throughout the Southeastern United States. In October, 2016, CHEVALLIER and twenty-four other co-defendants were federally indicted and charged with a myriad of drug trafficking, firearm and financial crimes rooted within the DTO. CHEVALLIER was charged with Conspiring to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine – the most severe drug charge one can receive at the federal level.
Of the twenty-five co-defendants named in the indictment, four entered pleas of not guilty and proceeded to a jury trial in May, 2018. After nearly two weeks of evidence presentation that included multiple community witnesses, local and federal law enforcement testimony, forensic, financial and narcotic experts, testimony from co-defendants, and a myriad of other evidentiary sources, the jury found CHEVALLIER and his codefendants guilty of the crimes charged.
At sentencing, CHEVALLIER moved the Court for leniency, arguing for a low-end sentence through contesting estimated drug quantities associated with CHEVALLIER’s drug trafficking activity and the leadership CHEVALLIER maintained throughout the conspiracy. The Court ultimately agreed with the United States, relying upon the extensive criminal history built by CHEVALLIER and the deluge of evidence implicating him in what was described as one of the most significant DTO’s the Court has ever seen. The Court cited the dozens of previous convictions ranging from violent crimes, property crimes, and drug trafficking crimes when fashioning the imposed sentence. The Court further credited witnesses who came forward to assist in the prosecution of CHEVALLIER, whose information assisted law enforcement in better understanding the regional nature in which CHEVALLIER operated. By the end of the investigation, it was determined that CHEVALLIER trafficked large quantities of drugs throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Highlighting the commitment to criminal activity as demonstrated by CHEVALLIER, the Court noted one example, citing that CHEVALLIER was released from prison in Georgia on February 20, 2016 after being convicted of a Felony Cocaine Trafficking charge in November, 2013. Evidence gathered in this current case showed CHEVALLIER returned immediately to large scale drug trafficking upon his release from custody until he was arrested federally in late 2016.
The investigation relied on multiple agencies and offices at both the federal and state levels. Initially, the investigation into this DTO began with the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Division. As the scale of this DTO became clearer, other state and federal agencies joined the investigation, including the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, Jacksonville Police Department, the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), all assuming various roles throughout the multi-year investigation. Ultimately, the investigation was primarily led by ATF, the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Division, and the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Interdiction Unit.
The investigation utilized confidential informants, undercover officers, constant physical surveillance, a Title III wiretap and a myriad of other investigative techniques to uncover the depth and breadth of crimes furthered by the DTO. The investigation determined that CHEVALLIER was ultimately accountable for the distribution of significant quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and cocaine base (crack).
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets. Assistant United States Attorneys Brad Knott and Toby Lathan prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Providence Man Admits to Possessing Hundreds of Videos and Images of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
PROVIDENCE, RI –A Providence man arrested for possessing hundreds of videos and images of child pornography pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today to a charge of possession of child pornography.
Samuel Mendez-Garcia, 42, admitted that he belonged to an online social media group that viewed and exchanged child pornography. Mendez-Garcia also admitted that he sent child pornography via Facebook messenger.
Mendez-Garcia’s guilty plea is announced by United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch, Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Peter C. Fitzhugh, and Rhode Island State Police Superintendent Colonel Ann C. Assumpico.
According to information presented to the Court, in late March 2018, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received information from security personnel at Facebook that a user of their services, with an IP address in Rhode Island, uploaded child pornography. The information was forwarded to the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force who determined that the IP address and the Facebook account belonged to Mendez-Garcia.
On July 19, 2018, members of the ICAC task force executed a court-authorized search of Mendez-Garcia’s residence and seized a laptop computer and cell phone he owned. Law enforcement officers also seized a cell phone that was in his possession.
A forensic analysis of one of Mendez-Garcia’s cell phones by a member of the ICAC task force revealed more than 600 videos and images containing child pornography, including images involving prepubescent minors and sadistic/masochistic conduct.
Mendez-Garcia, who has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on August 1, 2018, is scheduled to be sentenced on March 14, 2019.
Additionally, an immigration detainer has been lodged against Mendez-Garcia by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, after it was determined that he entered the United States illegally. It was also determined that Mendez-Garcia was prevented from entering the United States illegally as he attempted to cross the U.S. border from Mexico in 2002.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams.
United States Attorney Stephen G. Dambruch acknowledges and thanks the Newport Police Department, a member of the ICAC Task Force, for their assistance in the investigation of this matter.
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Pittsburgh Man Indicted on Federal Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
The three–count Indictment, returned on Dec. 12, names Eric Williams, 27, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, Williams was charged with possession with intent to distribute more than 28 grams of cocaine base, a Schedule II controlled substance, as well as quantities of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, and fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. Furthermore, Williams was charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of said drug trafficking crimes.
The law provides for a total sentence of not less than 10 years, but up to life in prison, a $6,250,000 fine, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of each defendant.
Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole Vasquez Schmitt and Yvonne Saadi are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pharmacy Owner Convicted in Medicare Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A federal jury in Los Angeles, California found a pharmacy owner guilty today for her role in a Medicare fraud scheme involving more than $1.3 million in fraudulent claims for prescription drugs.
Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Nicola T. Hanna of the Central District of California, Assistant Director in Charge Paul D. Delacourt of the FBI’s Los Angeles Division and Special Agent in Charge Christian J. Schrank of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Los Angeles Regional Office made the announcement.
After a two-day trial, Tamar Tatarian, 39, of Pasadena, California, was convicted of one count of health care fraud and two counts of wire fraud. Sentencing has been scheduled for Feb. 25, 2019 before U.S. District Judge John F. Walter of the Central District of California, who presided over the trial. Tatarian was the owner of Akhtamar Pharmacy in Pasadena.
According to evidence presented at trial, from approximately October 2015 through approximately October 2017, Tatarian engaged in a scheme involving the submission of fraudulent claims to Medicare Part D plan sponsors for prescription drugs that Akhtamar Pharmacy never ordered from wholesalers, and thus never dispensed to Medicare beneficiaries. Tatarian attempted to conceal the fraud through the creation of fake invoices, reflecting wholesale drug purchases by Akhtamar Pharmacy which had, in fact, never taken place. As a result of this scheme, Tatarian through Akhtamar Pharmacy submitted claims to Medicare for more than $1.3 million in prescription drugs that she never purchased or dispensed to patients, the evidence showed.
This case was investigated by the FBI and HHS-OIG. Trial Attorney Alexis Gregorian and Assistant Chief A. Brendan Stewart of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion. In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.
PSN Task Force indicts and arrests 19 Individuals for various Federal Drug and Firearms Offenses, including seven documented gang members, in “Operation Gun Done”Read the Press Release
Memphis, TN –19 individuals have been indicted and arrested on various federal drug and firearms violations, including seven documented gang members. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the indictments and arrests today.
On Thursday, November 29, 2018, Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force (PSN), which is comprised of agents and representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Memphis Police Department, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Shelby County District Attorney’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), assisted by the United States Marshals’ Service (USMS), conducted a PSN Outstanding Federal Fugitives End of the Year Round-up known as "Operation Gun Done."
During the months of October and November of this year, the PSN Task Force conducted the investigative operation which focused on convicted felons and other prohibited persons in possession or use of firearms in Memphis and Shelby County. Many of these targets also committed other state and federal violations.
During the two month investigation, 19 defendants were federally indicted and arrested during the recent fugitive roundup. Federal charges on these defendants include:
• Possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon
• Possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
• Carrying or use of a firearm during a crime of violence or a drug trafficking offense
• Unlawful manufacture, possession, or distribution of a controlled substance
• Unlawful shipment, transfer, or receipt of a firearm by a convicted felon
Of the 19 defendants indicted and arrested, 7 of them are identified gang members affiliated with the Gangster Disciples, the Grape Street Crips, and the Vice Lords.
U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a proven violent crime reduction strategy that works, and is now reinvigorated with additional resources and commitment from our law enforcement partners. Since October 2017, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has increased the number of federal firearms cases filed by over 58 percent, and the number of defendants charged with firearms offenses has increased over 68 percent. These efforts provide targeted prosecution of the worst-of-the-worst offenders to enhance public safety in Memphis and West Tennessee by removing guns from the hands of dangerous people and removing violent offenders from our communities. Reported gun crimes in Memphis and Shelby County are down 17% over the first 3 quarters of 2018, including the categories of murder, business robberies, and aggravated assaults. Putting the right people in prison incapacitates the most violent offenders, upholds the rule of law, deters criminal conduct with a strong message of significant consequences, and makes us all safer."
For more than a decade, law enforcement agencies within the Memphis metropolitan area have, and continue to utilize a crime prevention initiative to target gun crimes in Shelby County. The Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative is the flagship violent crime reduction strategy of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), and was launched in 2001 to bolster the nation’s previously existing gun crime reduction efforts. PSN was reinvigorated in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
If convicted on firearms charges, the defendants face possible sentences of up to 15 years in federal prison.
The charges and allegations in the indictments are merely accusations, and each of the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Ozark Man Pleads Guilty to $2.4 Million Cattle Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – An Ozark, Mo., man has pleaded guilty in federal court to a $2.4 million wire fraud scheme in which he falsely claimed that he had purchased thousands of head of cattle under a contract with a Texas company.
Dwight Moody Cox, 76, waived his right to a grand jury and pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush on Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2018, to one count of wire fraud.
Cox was the owner of Dwight Cox Cattle Company, which provided cattle procurement services. DCCC purchased cattle throughout the region and placed those cattle on land owned or rented by Cox to graze and feed. Once the cattle reached a specified weight, Cox shipped the cattle to his clients.
Cox had a contract with Texas Beef Cattle Company (TBCC), located in Amarillo, Texas, from 2009 until Nov. 30, 2017. During this period of time, Cox purchased cattle from various livestock auction houses and kept them on land he owned or had rented to graze, feed, and provide care. Cox submitted invoices to TBCC for all cattle he purchased, and billed TBCC for feeding the cattle. Once the cattle had reached a weight previously agreed to between Cox and TBCC, the cattle would be shipped by Cox to TBCC. TBCC would then sell the cattle and any profits would be shared equally between TBCC and Cox.
Between April 1, 2017, and Nov. 30, 2017, Cox submitted 35 different invoices, claiming to have purchased approximately 3,250 head of cattle. Cox also claimed to have those cattle grazing on land he owned or rented. In return for his representations, TBCC issued bank transfer payments in the amount of approximately $2,559,419.
In February 2018, TBCC officials contacted Cox and requested that the cattle be shipped to their facility in Amarillo for sale. On Feb. 27, 2018, Cox reported to officials with TBCC that he was unable to deliver the cattle and that he only had 147 head of cattle. When asked why 3,100 head of cattle were missing, Cox admitted that he had submitted false invoices to TBCC.
TBCC officials reported that minus the 147 head of cattle that were received from Cox, he fraudulently obtained $2,403,975 through his wire fraud scheme.
Under federal statutes, Cox 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 Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the FBI.
Organizer for Multiple Mexican Drug Cartels Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces that Gabino Peralta-Saucedo, a/k/a “Pony,” (43, Michoacán, Mexico) today pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and a quantity of heroin. Peralta-Saucedo faces a minimum mandatory term of 10 years, and up to life, in federal prison. Peralta-Saucedo was arrested in Mexico in September 2016, and was extradited to the United States in September 2018.
According to the
plea agreement , for over a decade, Peralta-Saucedo coordinated the smuggling of thousands of kilograms of cocaine into the United States from Mexico. More than 12,000 kilograms of cocaine were ultimately sold in and around Manatee County on behalf of Peralta-Saucedo, who smuggled and distributed the drugs on behalf of various Mexican drug cartels, including La Familia Michoacán and Los Caballeros Templarios. Peralta-Saucedo also cooperated with other Mexican drug cartels, including the Gulf Cartel and Los Zetas, in order to get drugs across the border into the United States. In addition, coconspirators possessed and distributed heroin in the Tampa Bay area.This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and Attaché’s Office in Mexico City assisted with the extradition process. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.
This case was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) program. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 194 Months for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
James Charles Fentress-Dismuke, 21, was sentenced in federal court Friday, December 14, 2018, in Omaha, Nebraska, for bank robbery and brandishing of a firearm during a crime of violence. The Honorable Robert F. Rossiter, Jr., sentenced Franklin to 8 years, 11 months of imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After completing his term of imprisonment, Fentress-Dismuke will begin a five-year term of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $100 in restitution.
On November 22, 2017, Fentress-Dismuke, Corita Burnett, Jonathan Franklin, and Vincent McGee were involved in robbing the Security Home Bank in Malmo, Nebraska. Franklin was involved in organizing the participants and planning the robbery. Fentress-Dismuke went into the bank brandishing a firearm and wearing a black ski mask and gloves. Franklin was traffic stopped a short time after the robbery and officers found a mask and two loaded handguns in the trunk of his car. Law enforcement recovered all but $100 of the $20,479.00 that was taken in the robbery.
Franklin pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 13 years, 5 months’ imprisonment. McGee pleaded guilty and is pending sentencing. Burnett has pleaded not guilty and is pending trial.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Great Plains Robbery Task Force, the Omaha Police Department Robbery Unit, the Saunders County Sheriff’s Department, the Wahoo Police Department, the Yutan Police Department and Nebraska State Patrol.
Oklee Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Unregistered Pipe BombsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of ERIC JAMES REINBOLD, 41, to five years in federal prison for illegally possessing unregistered pipe bombs. REINBOLD was convicted on July 20, 2018, following a three-day trial before Chief Judge John R. Tunheim in U.S. District Court in Fergus Falls, Minnesota.
“The defendant possessed multiple pipe bombs and other items that presented a potentially dangerous situation for the Red Lake County community,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Allyn. “It is because of a courageous decision made by relatives of the defendant to report the pipe bombs, that the community is safe.”
"Those engaged in building illegal improvised explosive devices are a threat to the community, therefore, this sentence is well deserved," said ATF Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the St. Paul Field Division. "We are grateful that a member of the community came forward and provided information regarding a public safety risk. We are thankful for, and appreciative of, the partnerships we have with local authorities who were an important part of this case."
As proven at trial, on October 22, 2017, law enforcement responded to a report of possible pipe bombs and bomb making materials on hunting land in Oklee, Minnesota. Specifically, they found a plastic tote containing pipe bombs, jugs of gunpowder, fuses, and other bomb making material as well as a receipt for the fuses containing REINBOLD’S name and address.
As proven at trial, on November 2, 2017, law enforcement executed a search warrant at REINBOLD’S residence in Oklee. Officers recovered materials similar to those found on the hunting land as well as handwritten notes related to manufacturing pipe bombs, making homemade explosives, how to use pipe bombs, and diagrams of bombs that match the bombs found in the tote.
Chief Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced REINBOLD today in U.S. District Court in Fergus Falls.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Red Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat violent crime.
Assistant United States Attorneys Julie E. Allyn and Angela Munoz-Kaphing prosecuted this case.
Defendant Information:
ERIC JAMES REINBOLD, 41
Oklee, Minn.
Convicted:
• Possession of unregistered destructive devices, 1 count
Sentenced:
- 60 months imprisonment
- 3 years supervised release
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Nineteen Alleged Members of West Baltimore Drug Trafficking Organization Facing Federal Firearms and Drug Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury late yesterday returned a second superseding indictment charging 19 Baltimore men for a federal drug conspiracy and related firearms charges. Charged in the indictment are:
Calvin Matthews, a.k.a. “Billy” and “Wayne,” age 39; Waymond Richard, a.k.a. “Squirt,” “Slim,” and “Thugga,” age 24; Branden Jones, a.k.a. “BR,” age 20; Isadore White, a.k.a. “Hatch” and “Nook,” age 21; Nelson Adibe, a.k.a. “Rock” and “Rockhead,” age 54; Shanee Burtwell, age 35; Murray Ray, a.k.a. “Mario,” age 21; Randolph Evans, a.k.a. “Buddha” and “Booda,” age 26; Nol Johnson, a.k.a. “Pookie,” age 28; Kenneth Jones, a.k.a. “Hammer,” age 26; Darnell Sullivan, a.k.a. “50,” age 23; Yaunike Hilton-Bey, a.k.a. “Neek,” age 21; Elijah Davis, a.k.a. “Gusto,” age 22; Malik Cauthorne, a.k.a. “Smoke,” age 24; Arthur Snowden, a.k.a. “Weechy,” age 38; Devron Towson, age 27; Rashawn Cooper, age 20; Deondre Pederson, a.k.a. “Jim,” age 23; and
Daveon Mcfadden, a.k.a. “Dee,” age 20.The indictment was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Special Agent in Charge Gordon B. Johnson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; and Interim Commissioner Gary Tuggle of the Baltimore Police Department.
“This year, more than twice as many people will die of fentanyl overdoses in Baltimore than of gun violence,” said U.S. Attorney Robert K. Hur. “Drug dealing and gun violence often go hand in hand. We will continue to apply federal resources to prosecute those who use guns to distribute drugs – peddling death and despair in our neighborhoods.”
“Today's announcement is a direct result of the hard work and dedication shared between local and federal authorities in our efforts to combat gang members who distribute dangerous drugs like heroin and fentanyl in our communities,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Gordon Johnson. “These charges demonstrate our overall strategy and relentless determination to eradicate the drug-fueled gang violence plaguing our communities. The FBI and our partners will continue to pursue investigations into individuals and groups who have furthered the scourge of opioids in our communities."
According to the 19-count indictment, the defendants allegedly conspired to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin and 400 grams of fentanyl. The indictment also alleges that seven of the defendants conspired to use and carry a firearm during and in relation to drug trafficking. Six of those seven individuals are alleged to be previously convicted felons and therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
If convicted, the defendants all face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison for the drug conspiracy. Calvin Matthews, Waymond Richard, Isadore White, Murray Ray, Elijah Davis, Devron Towson, and Rashawn Cooper each face a maximum of 20 years in prison for the firearms conspiracy and all but Ray also face a maximum of 10 years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Matthews, Richard, Ray, and Cooper face a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life in prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Finally, Matthews, Richard, Ray, and Cooper each face a maximum of 20 years in prison for distribution and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. The defendants have not yet been scheduled for initial appearances on these charges.
An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the FBI Baltimore Safe Streets Task Force and the Baltimore Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys David D. Metcalf and Zachary B. Stendig, who are prosecuting the case.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to a Heroin Conspiracy and Firearm Possession ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that PATRICK SCHEXNAYDER, age 27, of New Orleans, has pleaded guilty to federal firearms and narcotics violations.
According to court documents, PATRICK SCHEXNAYDER conspired with others to possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 846. In addition, on February 23, 2018, SCHEXNAYDER, a convicted felon, possessed a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
The Court set sentencing in this matter for March 7, 2019. SCHEXNAYDER faces, as to count one of the indictment, a minimum of five years up to a maximum of 40 years of imprisonment, a fine of $5,000,000, at least four years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. As to Count Eighteen, SCHEXNAYDER may receive up to 10 years of imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U. S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department Multi-Agency Gang Unit in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maria M. Carboni and Matthew R. Payne.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms Charges and Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that RICHARD GREEN age 29, of New Orleans, has pleaded guilty to six counts of federal firearms and narcotics charges.
According to court documents, GREEN conspired with others to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one hundred grams or more of heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(b)(1)(B) and 846. GREEN also conspired with others to possess firearms in furtherance of the heroin conspiracy, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o). On July 25, 2017, GREEN and a co-defendant possessed two firearms with extended magazines in a vehicle, even though they were both convicted felons, in violation of 922(g)(1), and 924(a)(2). On April 3, 2018, GREEN also possessed two firearms, along with MDMA and heroin, in a hotel room in Houma, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A) and 924(c)(1)(A)(i), and Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C).
The Court set sentencing in this matter for March 7, 2019. GREEN faces, as to count one of the indictment, a minimum of 5 years imprisonment and a maximum of 40 years imprisonment, a fine of $5,000,000, at least four years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. As to count two, GREEN faces a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, up to three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. As to counts thirteen and twenty, GREEN faces, as to each count, a maximum of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, up to three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment for each count. As to count nineteen, GREEN faces a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of $1,000,000, up to three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. As to count twenty-one, GREEN faces a minimum of five years imprisonment up to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, up to five years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. The term of imprisonment for this count must be consecutive to any other term of imprisonment imposed.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U. S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Orleans Police Department Multi-Agency Gang Unit, and the Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maria M. Carboni and Matthew R. Payne.
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New Jersey Man Sentenced to 135 Months for Leading Capital Region Drug Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Darren Clay Robinson, aka “Mountain,” age 54, of Teaneck, New Jersey, was sentenced today to 135 months in prison, to be followed by 8 years of supervised release, for conspiring with more than 10 people to distribute heroin, crack cocaine and cocaine throughout the Capital Region.
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 guilty plea, Robinson admitted that from August 2016 to May 2017, he worked with others to distribute heroin, cocaine base (a/k/a crack cocaine) and cocaine in Albany and Schenectady Counties. Robinson admitted to distributing between 3.5 kilograms and 5 kilograms of cocaine as part of the conspiracy.
Robinson, who has 3 prior drug felony convictions, stored drugs at a residence in Schenectady that he shared with a co-conspirator. On May 11, 2017, law enforcement executing a warrant there seized approximately 300 grams of cocaine, 75 grams of heroin and 25 grams of crack cocaine. At the residence, Robinson also possessed glass mixing cups, 4 digital scales, cutting agents, and various packaging materials, all used in the packaging and distribution of drugs.
Also, on May 10, 2017, law enforcement in Ulster County found, hidden in the engine compartment of the car that Robinson was driving, a bag containing approximately 100 grams of cocaine.
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, Schenectady County District Attorney’s Office, Albany County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, and the New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Barnett.
New Jersey Man Sentenced for Interference with Flight CrewRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that JOEL MICHAEL BANE, age 39, of New Jersey, was sentenced Wednesday, December 12, 2018 after pleading guilty on September 13, 2018 to one count of interference with flight crew.
According to the court documents, JOEL MICHAEL BANE intimidated and threatened flight attendants while on Southwest Airlines flight number 208, which departed from Chicago, Illinois, with a destination of New Orleans, Louisiana. The defendant also refused to comply with the captain’s directives to take his seat for landing. After the airplane landed, JOEL MICHAEL BANE assaulted the police officers who escorted him off of the airplane.
U.S. District Court Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced JOEL MICHAEL BANE to a term of two years of probation and a $3,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni is in charge of the prosecution.
New Jersey Heroin Supplier Sentenced to 21+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Elizabeth, New Jersey, has been sentenced in federal court to a term of imprisonment of 21 years and 10 months, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of one kilogram or more of heroin, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
Senior Judge Reggie B. Walton of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia imposed the sentence on Aldwin Vega, 43.
According to information presented during a jury trial, between the fall of 2011 and January of 2013, Vega supplied heroin to his co-conspirators who then made between 12 and 20 trips from New Jersey to Pittsburgh to distribute heroin. On January 30, 2013, a co-conspirator drove to Pittsburgh from New Jersey with 700 bricks of heroin. He placed the heroin under a bed at the Comfort Inn located in Robinson Township, PA, where he and another co-conspirator were staying. On January 31, 2013, law enforcement executed a search warrant on the hotel room. A search of the hotel room revealed 519 bricks (approximately 200 had already been sold) of heroin, which were found underneath the bed. Subsequent laboratory tests revealed that Vega’s fingerprints were on the heroin found within the hotel room. During the course of the conspiracy, Vega supplied over one kilogram of heroin to his co-conspirators for distribution in Western Pennsylvania.
Assistant United States Attorney Shanicka L. Kennedy prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, City of Pittsburgh Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, McKeesport Police Department, Munhall Police Department, and the West Homestead Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution, conviction and sentencing of Aldwin Vega.
NKC Woman Indicted for Stealing from EmployerRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A North Kansas City, Mo., woman has been indicted for embezzling $116,367 from her employer.
Tonya Topel, 41, was charged in an 11-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2018.
According to the indictment, Topel worked at SunSource Homes, Inc., from October 2016 to April 2018 as the officer manager and accountant.
The federal indictment alleges that Topel began embezzling from SunSource a month after she was hired, using several different methods.
Topel allegedly made $47,665 in unauthorized purchases on SunSource business credit cards, including purchasing an airline ticket for her boyfriend. Topel allegedly also issued $40,955 in unauthorized checks to herself. Topel allegedly claimed $19,713 in unauthorized or fraudulent expense reimbursements and allegedly created extra paychecks for herself totaling $5,283. In December 2017, Topel allegedly cashed an unauthorized $2,745 check from SunSource.
The indictment alleges Topel embezzled at least $116,367 from SunSource. According to the indictment, she used the embezzlement proceeds to travel, including to the Bahamas, Arizona, Boston, and Florida. She also used the embezzlement proceeds for retail purchases, restaurants, pets, vehicles, overdraft fees, and to pay her attorney.
The federal indictment charges Topel with two counts of money laundering, related to the payments to her attorney made with stolen funds, and nine counts of wire fraud. The indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation, which would require Topel to forfeit to the government any property derived from the proceeds of the alleged offenses, including a money judgment of $116,367.
The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen D. Mahoney. It was investigated by the FBI.
Morgan City Bookkeeper Indicted for Stealing More Than $3 MillonRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced today that a federal grand jury has returned a five-count indictment against Karen Duhon, 64, of Morgan City, Louisiana, charging her with one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, three counts of wire fraud, and one count of mail fraud.
The indictment alleges that Duhon, who was the bookkeeper at Capital Management Consultants, Inc. ("CMCI"), a family-owned company located in Morgan City, Louisiana, stole more than $3 million from January 1999 through March 2014. Duhon wrote fraudulent checks to herself, which were drawn on CMCI’s bank account and deposited those checks into bank accounts owned by her and her husband. In order to conceal these fraudulent payments from the CMCI account, Duhon made false accounting entries into CMCI’s records. During this time, Duhon also assisted certain family members with their personal finances. She used funds from a family member’s personal brokerage account at Oppenheimer and Co. to make payments on her American Express accounts. As a result of Duhon’s fraudulent activities, she embezzled $3,194,920.
If convicted, Duhon faces up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, restitution, forfeiture and a $250,000 fine.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas F. Phillips is prosecuting the case.
The charges in the indictment are only accusations; the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Monroe Man Indicted on Federal Drug Trafficking Charges Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney David C. Joseph announced that Anderson Curtel Duke, 33, of Monroe, Louisiana, was indicted on Wednesday by a federal grand jury on two counts of distribution of fentanyl, one of which resulted in a person’s death, three counts of distribution of heroin, two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The indictment alleges that Duke distributed or possessed with the intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine beginning May 21, 2018 through June 19, 2018. The indictment further alleges that on June 19, 2018, Duke distributed fentanyl, which resulted in the death of the recipient.
If convicted, Anderson Duke faces 20 years to life on the distribution of fentanyl resulting in death (count 1), up to 20 years on the distribution of fentanyl and heroin and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin (counts 2-5; 7-9), and five years up to 40 years on the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine (count 6).
The charges against Duke resulted in an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown is prosecuting the case.
The charges in the indictment are only accusations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Mission Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Benjamen T. Flute, a/k/a Benjamin T. Flute, age 39, was indicted on December 11, 2018. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on December 13, 2018, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Flute was convicted of 2nd-degree rape in December 2007. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between September 25, 2018, and November 28, 2018, Flute failed to properly register as a sex offender as required by law.
The charge is merely an accusation and Flute is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Flute was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Middletown, New Jersey, Investment Manager and Former Fire Chief Convicted of Running Ponzi Scheme to Steal More Than $10 MillionRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – An investment manager with an office in Middletown, New Jersey, has been convicted of running a Ponzi scheme, concealing losses, faking investment returns, and stealing more than $10 million in investor money, U.S Attorney Craig Carpenito announced today.
Vicent P. Falci, 59, of Middletown, was convicted of all four counts of a superseding indictment: three counts of wire fraud and one count of securities fraud. He was convicted Dec. 13, 2018, following a two-week trial before U.S. District Judge Anne E. Thompson in Trenton federal court. The jury deliberated for 90 minutes before returning the verdict.
According to the superseding indictment and evidence at trial:
Falci controlled a number of investment funds under the names “Saber Funds” and “Vicor Tax Receivables LLP.” The Saber Funds were a collection of investment funds that Falci created and operated, starting in the early 2000s. Many of his earliest victims were friends, family, and associates. Falci served as a fire chief in Middletown, and some victims were policemen, fireman, and retirement funds for first responders. The Saber Funds grew to have more than 200 investors from whom the defendant raised more than $10 million.
Falci falsely told investors that the Saber Funds were conservatively invested in tax liens – which generated high returns with little risk. In reality, Falci diverted investor money to himself, his family, and to other companies he controlled. Some of the diverted funds were used for riskier ventures, such as day trading and real estate. Falci concealed losses and his own theft from investors. Based on these misrepresentations, investors continued to entrust additional funds to Falci and left previous investments under his control.
In early 2012, Falci started the Vicor Fund, targeting wealthier investors with greater sophistication in financial affairs. The investors in the Vicor Fund included financial industry professionals, and Falci ultimately raised $20 million from these victims. He again falsely represented that he had experience and a track record of success investing in tax liens, and promised that he could produce high rates of return with little risk. In reality, the assets of the Vicor Fund were rapidly depleted by Falci’s theft.
In order to support his own lifestyle and repay investors the gains he had promised, Falci stole more than $10 million from the Vicor Fund between 2012 and 2016. At the same time, he reported fake investment gains to his investors on monthly statements. Falci concealed his theft in several ways, including by diverting funds to a fake company that he created to steal from investors. He also forged emails and reports, and created fake assets for the fund.
Each charge of wire fraud carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The charge of securities fraud carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $5 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for March 21, 2018.
U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited inspectors of U.S. Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge James V. Buthorn, with the investigation leading to today’s verdict. He also thanked the N.J. Bureau of Securities in the State Attorney General’s Office, under the direction of Attorney General Gurbir Grewal and Bureau Chief Christopher Gerrold, for its assistance in the investigation.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Herring, Chief of the Cybercrimes Unit, and Paul A. Murphy, Chief of the Economic Crimes Unit, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Newark.
Michigan woman indicted for helping man avoid registering as a sex offenderRead the Press Release
A Michigan woman was indicted for helping a man avoid registering as a sex offender.
Heather Butler, 30, of Romulus, Michigan was indicted on one count of failure to register as a sex offender.
Butler traveled from Michigan to Ohio and rented and paid for a hotel room in Rossford, Ohio, which assisted a sex offender in evading sex offender registration requirements, according to the indictment.
If convicted, the defendant's sentence will be determined by the Court after reviewing factors unique to this case, including the defendant's prior criminal record, if any, the defendant's role in the offense and the characteristics of the violation. In all cases the sentence will not exceed the statutory maximum and in most cases it will be less than the maximum.
The investigating agency in this case is the United States Marshal Service. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley A. Futrell and Tracey Ballard Tangeman.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. The burden of proof is always on the government to prove a defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Mexico citizen admits illegal reentry after being found by Glacier National Park rangersRead the Press Release
GREAT FALLS – A citizen of Mexico admitted on Dec. 11 in federal court to being in the United States illegally after Glacier National Park personnel found him walking while on patrol, U.S. Attorney Kurt G. Alme said.
Luis Alejandro Lopez-Solis, 36, of Mexico, pleaded guilty to illegal reentry.
U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided at the hearing. Sentencing is set for Feb. 21, 2019. Lopez-Solis is detained.
Lopez-Solis faces a maximum 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.
If the case had gone to trial, the government would have presented the following information as evidence:
On Sept. 24 while on routine patrol of the Goat Haunt area of Glacier National Park, park personnel told St. Mary Border Patrol agents of a suspicious person walking south from the Goat Haunt Ranger Station area. Border Patrol agents searched for the person and later identified Lopez-Solis. Agents found him talking to a park law enforcement ranger on a trail south of the ranger station. Lopez-Solis was taken to the ranger station for an interview. Lopez-Solis, who was in wet clothing and shivering, said he had fallen into a nearby creek while trying to cross it.
Agents arrested Lopez-Solis and flew him by helicopter from the ranger station to the St. Mary Border Patrol Station for further investigation. He confirmed he was a citizen of Mexico.
Lopez-Solis told agents he left Mexico on Sept. 21, 2018 and had arrived the same day in Canada. There, he rented a car and traveled to Waterton, Alberta, where on Sept. 24 he started walking south, crossing into the United States, until he got found by the National Park Service rangers. He said his plan was to follow the NPS trail system to Chief Mountain where his girlfriend was going to pick him up.
Lopez-Solis was deported in May 2017 after conviction on passport fraud. He did not have permission to reenter the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paulette Stewart is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by U.S. Border Patrol and Glacier National Park Law Enforcement.
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Mexican Citizen Sentenced for Illegal Re-entry into United StatesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Emmanuel Lucero-Saavedra, age 40, and a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced yesterday to time served (11 months in jail), for illegal re-entry into the United States.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Kevin M. Kelly, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Lucero-Saavedra has been previously removed from the United States to Mexico four times, the most recent removal taking place on June 27, 2015. On January 10, 2018, he was encountered and arrested by an ICE Officer in Albany. Lucero-Saavedra admitted that he returned to the United States without permission following the June 27, 2015 removal.
Following sentencing, Lucero-Saavedra was remanded to the custody of the Department of Homeland Security, for removal proceedings.
This case was investigated by HSI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward P. Grogan.
Mexican Citizen Sentenced for Illegal Re-entry into United StatesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Ernesto Bautista Juarez, age 25, and a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced yesterday to time served (28 days in jail), for illegal re-entry into the United States.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Grant C. Jaquith and Thomas E. Feeley, Director of the Buffalo Field Office of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO).
Bautista Juarez has been previously removed from the United States to Mexico three times, the most recent removal occurring on March 28, 2015. On November 15, 2018, he was encountered and arrested by an ICE Officer in Saratoga Springs, New York. A fingerprint check of Bautista Juarez resulted in the discovery of the prior removals. Bautista Juarez admitted that he returned to the United States without permission following the March 28, 2015 removal. Bautista Juarez has never been authorized to enter or reside in the United States.
Following sentencing, Bautista Juarez was remanded to the custody of the Department of Homeland Security, for removal proceedings.
This case was investigated by ICE-ERO and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward P. Grogan.